If Marijuana Were Legalized Essays - Drug Policy, Law, Free Essays

If Marijuana Were Legalized Essays - Drug Policy, Law, Free Essays If Marijuana Were Legalized Drugs are a major influential force in our country today. The problem has gotten so out of hand that many options are being considered to control it or even solve it. Ending the drug war seems to be a bit impossible. The war on drugs seems to be accomplishing a lot but this is not true. Different options need to be considered. Legalization is an option that hasn't gotten a chance but should be given one. Although many people feel that legalizing marijuana would increase the amount of use, marijuana should be legalized because it will reduce the great amounts of money spent on enforcement and it will increase our country?s revenue. There are also many benefits that can be uncovered to help people if legalization of marijuana is given a chance. Legalizing marijuana would increase our economy's revenue. During Prohibition alcohol use was still sold and used, but people were doing it illegally. The 21st amendment repealed prohibition and alcohol taxes were increased. The same thing should happen with drugs. Marijuana should be taxed heavily to increase our revenue. Marijuana and other drugs would be made by the same people who make aspirin so the quality would be assured, containing no poisons or adulterants. Sterile hypodermic needles will be readily available at corner drug stores. These could be taxed heavily because the users will be assured of "clean drugs." Making drugs legal will reduce the great amounts of money spent on enforcement every year. Drug dealers and users are one step ahead on the enforcement process. If one drug lord is caught, another one will show up somewhere else. We cannot win. ?In 1987, 10 billion dollars were spent alone just on enforcing drug laws. Drugs accounted for about 40 percent of all felony indictments in the New York City courts in 1989. This figure is quadruple what it was in 1985. . Forty percent of the people in federal prison are drug law violators? (Long 114). One can only imagine what this figure would be like today. Too much money is wasted on a cause that seems to be no end to. ?In 1989, a Republican county executive of Mercer County N.J. estimated that it would cost him as much as 1 billion dollars to build the jail space needed to house all the hard-core drug users in Trenton alone? (Long 128). All of this money could be used on better things. By lifting the ban on marijuana use and treating it like other drugs such as tobacco and alcohol, the nation would gain immediate and long-term benefits. This change in the law would greatly improve the quality of life for many people. Victims of glaucoma and those needing antinausea treatment, for example, would find marijuana easily available. Also, the cloud of suspicion would disappear, and doctors could get on with investigating marijuana?s medical uses without fear of controversy. In the essay, ?Drugs?, Vidal states, ? Nevertheless many drugs are bad for certain people to take and they should be told why in a sensible way? (321-322). It might become possible to discuss the dangers of marijuana use without getting caught up in a policy debate.. Meanwhile, the black market would disappear overnight. Some arrangement would be made to license the production of marijuana cigarettes. Thousands of dealers would be put out of business, and a secret part of the economy would come into the open. It is difficult to say whether this change would reduce crime because criminals would probably continue to sell other drugs. But it would have an impact on the amount of money flowing through criminal channels, and this might weaken organized crime. The legalization of marijuana would benefit the federal budget in two ways, the federal revenues would increase, because marijuana cigarettes would be taxed at the point of sale. In return, the companies that make the cigarettes would also pay income taxes.. Second, there would be a reduction on the amount spent on law enforcement efforts to apprehend and prosecute users and sellers of marijuana. The drug enforcement authorities might reduce their budget requests, or, more likely, focus more intensely on hard drugs and violent crimes. The courts would

Poems to Read on Thanksgiving Day

Poems to Read on Thanksgiving Day The story of the first Thanksgiving is a familiar one to all Americans: After a year filled with suffering and death, in the fall of 1621, the Pilgrims at Plymouth had a feast to celebrate a bountiful harvest. This feast is surrounded by legends of the local Native Americans joining in the celebration and groaning tables of turkey, corn and some form of cranberry dish. These foods are the bedrock of the traditional American Thanksgiving dinner, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It was not an official holiday until President Abraham Lincoln declared it so in 1863, although it was unofficially celebrated before that time by many Americans. It is a time for families gathered together to reflect on all the good things of their lives and an appropriate moment to read eloquent poems to mark the holiday and its meaning. The New-England Boys Song About Thanksgiving Day by Lydia Maria Child This poem, more commonly known as Over the River and Through the Wood, was written in 1844 and depicts a typical holiday journey through New England snows in the 19th century. In 1897 it was made into the song that is more familiar than the poem to Americans. It very simply tells the story of a sleigh ride through the snow, the dapple-gray horse pulling the sleigh, the howling of the wind and the snow all around, and at last arriving at grandmothers house, where the air is filled with the smell of pumpkin pie. It is the maker of the images of a typical Thanksgiving. The most famous words are the first stanza:​ Over the river, and through the wood,To grandfathers house we go;The horse knows the way,To carry the sleigh,Through the white and drifted snow. The Pumpkin by John Greenleaf Whittier John Greenleaf Whittier uses grandiose language in The Pumpkin (1850) to describe, in the end, his nostalgia for Thanksgivings of old and bounteous love for pumpkin pie, the enduring symbol of those holidays. The poem begins with strong imagery of pumpkins growing in a field and ends as an emotional ode to his now elderly mother, enhanced by similes. And the prayer, which my mouth is too full to express,Swells my heart that thy shadow may never be less,That the days of thy lot may be lengthened below,And the fame of thy worth like a pumpkin-vine grow,And thy life be as sweet, and its last sunset skyGolden-tinted and fair as thy own Pumpkin pie! No. 814 by Emily Dickinson Emily Dickinson lived her life almost entirely isolated from the rest of the world, rarely leaving her home in Amherst, Massachusetts, or receiving visitors, except for her family. Her poems were not known to the public in her lifetime; the first volume of her work was published in 1890, four years after her death. So its impossible to know when a particular poem was written. This poem about Thanksgiving, in characteristic Dickinson style, is obtuse in its meaning, but it implies that this holiday is as much about memories of previous ones as about the day at hand: One day is there of the seriesTermed Thanksgiving DayCelebrated part at tablePart in memory- Fire Dreams by Carl Sandburg Fire Dreams was published in Carl Sandburgs 1918 volume of poetry, Cornhuskers, for which he won the Pulitzer Prize in 1919. He is known for his Walt Whitman-like style and use of free verse. Sandburg writes here in the language of the people, directly and with relatively little embellishment, except for a limited use of metaphor, giving this poem a modern feel. He reminds the reader of the first Thanksgiving, conjures up the season and gives his thanks to God. Heres the first stanza: I remember here by the fire,In the flickering reds and saffrons,They came in a ramshackle tub,Pilgrims in tall hats,Pilgrims of iron jaws,Drifting by weeks on beaten seas,And the random chapters sayThey were glad and sang to God. Thanksgiving Time by Langston Hughes Langston Hughes, famous as a seminal and hugely important influence on the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s, wrote poetry, plays, novels and short stories that shed a light on the black experience in America. This ode to Thanksgiving from 1921 invokes traditional images of the time of year and the food that is always part of the story. The language is simple, and this would be a good poem to read at a Thanksgiving with children gathered round the table. Heres the first stanza: When the night winds whistle through the trees and blow the crisp brown leaves a-crackling down,When the autumn moon is big and yellow-orange and round,When old Jack Frost is sparkling on the ground,Its Thanksgiving Time!

Assessment of recent developments in financial reporting Essay

Assessment of recent developments in financial reporting - Essay Example This study will understand whether legal enactments and obligations are sufficient to perform financial activities in an ethical and logical manner. Drafting the financial reporting takes a lot of accounting knows how and also the thorough knowledge of legal obligations. The author of the study would lay emphasis on the accurate conduct of financial activities with guidance from the standards laid down by the accounting standards and the legal requirements. The need of these accurate financial reporting and also the critical evaluation of the effectiveness of the legal requirements in the preparation of the financial statements would be covered in the study. Finally, the study will conclude whether the legal requirements of the particular country are sufficient for the companies to perform the accounting and financial activities. International Accounting Standards Board &Financial Accounting Standards Board The establishment of International Accounting Standards Board, Financial Acco unting Standards Board boards was in the year 1973 and was set for the primary purpose of formulation of regulations which would also help in the education of the users, stakeholders and management. Along with international convergence the company the board also focuses on the quality of financial reporting (Liu, 2011). International Financial Reporting Standard IFRS on the other hand will focus on the development of the accounting framework, which will help in the betterment of the company. IFRS is one of the major accounting standards board, which are responsible for checking whether the accounting standards developed by them are effectively executed and implemented within the system for the betterment of the organization or not (Allen, McAndrews and Strahan, 2001). The UK Company Act The UK company act is formed under the Companies Act 2006 and governed by Insolvency Act 1986. help in the development of high quality accounting standards, which are highly compatible with the busin ess environment that can be used for the regional and cross border investments (Allen, McAndrews and Strahan, 2001).It is also responsible for the development of accounting framework, which is accountable for the construction of the organizational structure and also preparation of consolidated financial statements for the benefit of cross listed companies (Liu, 2011). Generally Accepted Accounting Principles Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) is one of the standard frameworks which serve as guidelines for performing financial accounting activity (Liu, 2011). These include conventions, standards, rules and regulations which are known as general accounting standard. Financial & Legal Requirements in Stock Exchange There are several legal and financial regulations and requirements which are applicable for the stock exchanges of different countries. The stock market is regulated by several disclosure standards which help in transparent business operations and also encourage s shareholders in smooth investing activities. For example the London Stock Exchange has several listing rules and regulations which assesses the shareholder’s issuer eligibility and also ensures that these regulations are made. There has been major fluctuation in the stock market movement in the past six months because the overall market has been extremely sensitive vulnerable to the sensitive

Three steps in financial analysis and management reporting Essay

Three steps in financial analysis and management reporting - Essay Example In this idea, it is showcased how important it is to determine the facts about the organization before anything else has to be taken into account in financial analysis. This is very important because it is the organization itself that has to be the center point of financial analysis. For instance, an organization is composed of human resource. In a specific study, it is shown that the success of introducing new system into the company for the purpose of improving financial performance is determined by understanding the needs of the personnel and their capacity to adapt the new introduced system (Randolph and Ogawa, 2007). The effectiveness of an organization can be attributed to the performance of its personnel. In other words, part of the facts that should be gathered in understanding an organization is the capacity and competency of the human resource. This is evident on the task of financial analyst in which he or she must have a detailed understanding about the management and the company in particular (Hagberg, 2003). In line with this, it is important that financial analysts must be able to determine both financial and non-financial performance information of an organization as basic foundation of the analysis (Coram, Mock and Monroe, 2011). In this regard, there is a good opportunity to gather accurate information that will help determine the right approach in the entire process of financial analysis. Compare the facts in the organization over time to facts in similar organizations One of the most important benefits in trying to compare facts in the organization over time to facts in similar organizations is to understand how well it is performing and to know other financial issues in it such as the general financial strength (Cleary, 2006). In a study conducted by Cleary, the investigation of facts and comparing them among different organizations prove to be an effective way to understand financial strengths and performance of an organization. Thus, it i s evident that an organization that tries to compare its financial information from the other is a significant way to check performance and eventually will pave way to create the right evaluative process. In creating a standard in financial activities, there is an assurance of awareness and the right implementation process towards an organization’s achievement of financial strength (Iatridis, 2010). Balanced scorecard is known to be one of the best adopted strategies for performance measurement and evaluation of the company and its financial performance. In line with this, this measurement deals with understanding the facts within an organization and especially in similar organization for comparison. For instance, one of the most essential components of balanced scorecard is customer. Customer-oriented organizations are eventually trying to provide the best customer value especially in customer-oriented organizations (Flint, Blocker and Boutin, 2011). These companies in order to achieve their best performance through their customers try to compare the facts they have with them and that of the other organizations in order to substantially create customer value. It is therefore clear in this point that it makes sense to result to comparison of performance and information in order to achieve organizational objectives. Use perspective and judgment to make

A detailed analysis of The Red-Headed League Essay Example for Free

A detailed analysis of The Red-Headed League Essay In 1888, A Study in Scarlet was published, bringing together the infamous duo of Holmes and Watson and in the creation of Holmes, earned Conan Doyle his fortune. Scandal in Bohemia and the following stories of his characters journey into the world of crime solving appeared in The Strand magazine. The 1880s saw a growing market for popular fiction and at a mere sixpence a week, it had anxious people rushing to the stands for literary entertainment, amusement and escapism. The double act of Holmes and Watson is very effective in the short stories by Conan Doyle. Holmes is often described in the short stories with extended imagery, often like creatures and monsters.  His head was sunk upon his breast, and he looked from my point of view like a strange, lank bird, with dull grey plumage and a black top-knot.  This imagery helps to reinforce the idea that his sharp and piercing eyes give the impression that he is very alert. Holmes is also described as having a tall, gaunt figure with slick black hair and hawk-like yet austere facial features. He is portrayed as being a blunt and impatient man. At the beginning of The Red-Headed League after Watsons initial intrusion, he pulls Watson abruptly into the room and he is anxious for Mr. Jabez Wilson to recommence his narrative. Watson, on the contrary, is a polite man. When he walks in on Holmes and Wilson having the conversation, he apologises and starts to withdraw. The choice of Watson as the narrator for these short stories is very effective. From the beginning, it is clear that they are very close friends, and the feeling of this friendship is made tangible in The Final Problem, as Watson mourns the tragic death of Holmes. Another reason Watson is effective as the storyteller, is that compared to Holmes amazing powers of logic and deduction, he seems more like a normal person. He, like the reader, is amazed by Holmes skills, yet he does not understand them. During the denouement of The Red-Headed League, Watson helps the reader understand how Holmes came to his conclusions by asking him the questions that are in the readers mind, such as, But how could you guess what the motive was? and, how could you tell that they would make their attempt to-night? This satisfies the reader and adds realism it helps them accept it is possible. Also, as Watson is left in the dark until the conclusion, it emphasises Holmes ingenuity and powers of deductive reasoning. Throughout The Red-Headed League, there are many clues that enable the mystery to be solved. The idea of the Red-Headed League was so bizarre that there had to be something beyond the obvious evidence. Holmes chuckles after the reading of the advertisement found in the newspaper and concludes that it is a little off the beaten track. The strange factors that surround the hiring of Wilsons assistant, Vincent Spaulding, make the reader (and the characters) quite dubious of his authenticity. Vincent worked at half wages and he had been with Wilson about a month before he showed Wilson the advertisement for The Red-Headed League and recommends strongly that he applies. When Holmes and Watson go to Mr. Wilsons shop to meet the assistant, Holmes notices the knees of his trousers. All of these ideas are evidently significant to solving the mystery, but the significance cannot be seen by anyone else but Holmes. The scene with Holmes, Watson, police agent Mr. Jones (of Scotland Yard) and Mr. Merryweather, the bank director, sitting in the pitch darkness is effective at building the atmosphere and mood needed for the finale. Watson depicts the scene with fantastic imagery. As they wait in the earth-smelling passage in absolute darkness, Watsons nerves are worked up to a pitch of expectancy. This illustrates the anticipation being felt by the characters and the readers themselves. Watson says there is something depressing and subduing about sitting in the sudden gloom and the cold, dank air. Although he is excited about their scheme, he realises the darker side to the outcome. After sitting in the darkness for a period of time, and after Watson thinks that the night must have almost gone, and the dawn be breaking above them, Watsons limbs become weary and stiff. Watson is physically starting to feel very uncomfortable in that situation, yet he fears to change his position. His hearing becomes very acute and he can start to distinguish the deeper, heavier in-breath of the bulky Jones from the thin sighing note of the bank director. This details how still and silent the characters are in this intense moment. Suddenly, his eyes catch the glint of a light. Starting as a lurid spark, it turns into a yellow line before an almost womanly hand appears from the gash. The culmination of the action will soon be played out before the reader. At this point, you can see how Conan Doyle has created the tension for the reader and how this will affect their enjoyment of the concluding pages. The Final Problem has a very different theme. As soon as the first paragraph has been read you can sense the feeling of desolation as Watson writes with a heavy heart and speaks of the singular gifts by which Holmes was distinguished. The whole story has a disheartening ambience. This is reinforced by the surprise and very uncharacteristic entrance of Holmes. He acts very unusually and Watson seems confused. Holmes use of euphemisms is unanticipated, as he is usually a very blunt and straightforward man. Yes, I have been using myself up rather too freely'  He also uses heroic understatement here for effect. You can also detect the use of present participles as soon as Holmes presence is felt, he starts flinging the shutters together and persists in bolting them securely. The word bolted has a very aggressive sound and therefore helps to visualise Holmes urgency and distressed nature. Their brief and minimal exchange is particularly dramatic.

Massage Therapy :: Massage Therapy Essays

Massage Therapy The practice of massage therapy is rapidly growing in the United States. It has numerous benefits to offer and is becoming more widely accepted as a medical practice by doctors and the general public. Massage is defined as: †¦the systematic manual or mechanical manipulations of the soft tissues of the body by such movements as rubbing, kneading, pressing, rolling, slapping, and tapping, for therapeutic purposes such as promoting circulation of the blood and lymph, relaxation of muscles, relief from pain, restoration of metabolic balance, and other benefits both physical and mental (Beck 3). There is much historical evidence to indicate that massage is one of the earliest remedies for pain relief and for the restoration of a healthy body. It is said to be the most natural and instinctive means of relieving pain and discomfort. The roots of massage can be traced back to ancient civilizations. Many artifacts have been found to support the belief that prehistoric people massaged their muscles and even used some form of rubbing oils on their bodies. According to research, some form of massage was practiced in almost all early civilizations. Ancient Chinese, Japanese, India, Hindu, Greek, and Roman civilizations used some form of massage as a medical treatment. In many of these civilizations a special person, such as a healer, doctor, or spiritual leader, was selected to administer massage treatments. With the decline of the Roman Empire in 180 A.D. came a decline in the popularity of massage and health care in general. There was little history of health practices recorded during the Middle Ages (476-1450). The Renaissance period (1450-1600) revived an interest in health and science. Once again, people became interested in the improvement of physical health and by the second half of the fifth century, massage was a common practice. By the sixteenth century, medical practitioners began to incorporate massage into their healing treatments. Massage has been a major part of medicine for at least five thousand years and important in Western medical traditions for at least three thousands years. In the early part of the nineteenth century, Per Henrik Ling, a physiologist and fencing master, from Smaaland, Sweden, developed and systemized movements that he found to be beneficial in improving physical conditions. His system of movements, based on the science of physiology, became known as Medical Gymnastics. In 1813, Ling established the Royal Swedish Central Institute of Gymnastics, which was financed by the Swedish government. From this institute Ling and his students were able to educate people about his Medical Gymnastics movements, which became known as the Swedish Movements. By 1851, there were thirty-eight institutions for Swedish Movement in Europe. Today, Per Henrik Ling is known as the father of physical therapy.

Emarketer the Global Media Intelligence Report Essay

For advertisers, success in the region depends on mastering the increasingly complex interaction between multiple strands of marketing and on building relationships with audiences wary of advertising, per se. But the omnipresence of media also enables marketers to grab consumers’ attention as never before, and to follow their every move as they evaluate brands, products and purchase options. Europe shares many of North America’s characteristics. Moreover, its population, like that of North America, is relatively af? uent. Yet there are often major differences in culture and media penetration from one country to another, as well as variations in online and mobile habits. Regional marketers need to ? ne-tune their strategies accordingly for optimum results. Europe has been caught between Western in? uences and older, Soviet-era ones. This is still the case. Traditional media command large audiences, while the internet has a promising foothold. Advertising is less developed than in Western Europe or North America—yet in many countries in Eastern Europe, mobile is the most popular media channel. The bottom line: This region is ripe for marketing innovation, and there is plenty of room to experiment, even on small budgets.  ¦Ã‚ ¦ Western  ¦Ã‚ ¦ Historically, Eastern markets, such as those in Asia-Paci? c and Latin America, continue to claim an ever-increasing share of global ad spending. This transition has accelerated as growth in many Western economies has faltered. A number of advertisers are shifting their focus to countries with expanding populations and rising levels of consumption. advertising will remain a star performer. In most mature markets, growth in online ad spending outpaced all other platforms in 2010. In a few less developed countries, however, web penetration remains low and internet advertising is still embryonic. Where this scenario coexists with national economic dif? culties, many advertisers will be tempted to stick with traditional media in the short term. devices are transforming the media landscape in every corner of the world. But mobile usage patterns can vary widely, even within a single region. Marketers should be alert to the gender balance in mobile audiences, for example. Similarly, the link between af? uence and smartphone or mobile web adoption seen in many Western nations is not always a foregone conclusion in other regions. The Global Media Intelligence Report  ¦Ã‚ ¦ Digital  ¦Ã‚ ¦ Like  ¦Ã‚ ¦ Mobile Eastern Europe, Latin America registered rather low internet penetration in 2010, but reasonably high levels of mobile use. Unlike Europe, the region has an exploding population and an advertising sector growing at more than double the worldwide average rate.

Logical Processor and Reactive Stimulator Essay

When I took the test I came out with Logical Processor and Reactive Simulator. Both of my styles were even so not one outweighed the other. I had to laugh when I actually completed the test. It all comes in hand with my current additional duties at work. I am a union steward and when it comes to this job I initially use Reactive Simulator. When I first get a grievance, my initial reaction is to get to the meeting immediately so that I can hurry up and fry the other individual because I need immediate results. Well it doesn’t work like that. I have 15 days from the time that I receive my case to get all of my facts together; do research within the contract laws to see which ones were violated. It really helps when I have a griever that has a good case they could win. As a steward I have to fight for the griever whether or not they are correct. Sometimes being a Reactive simulator causes me to get into confrontations. I immediately react to different situations, always on the defense. With this style it causes me to not hear other individual’s side of the story, because in my eyes if you are wrong than that’s how I am going keep the situation until I am proven otherwise. My communication is a little misunderstood by my co-workers. I am not a really compassionate person so I don’t take personal issues into consideration. I can sometimes come off harsh, but I really think that I am misunderstood by others. My Logical Processor can also balance me out. When I have a task or a major project, I will do my research on it. I am not going to say that I am a know-it-all, but if I have to prove something to my supervisor, I will go to the regulations and prove her wrong, not intentionally. If it takes me all day to find the answer to an issue, than I will use the whole day, as long as I am correct. I am a individual that hates change and if I can keep something the same by proving that they are doing something illegal, then so be it. Both the Logical Processor and the Reactive Simulator makes my Strategic pattern a performer. One of those attributes is that I want results to be quickly achieved. The results have to have a good outcome with it. I like to get the job done, I do not like to take the shortcut, nor do I like the think out of the box approach!

Altered States of Consciousness and Hypnosis Essay Example

Altered States of Consciousness and Hypnosis Essay Example Altered States of Consciousness and Hypnosis Essay Altered States of Consciousness and Hypnosis Essay Altered States of Consciousness and Hypnosis Introduction Far from its one time connection with carnivals, mediums, and the occult, hypnosis and the altered states of consciousness it helps create have proven to be a beneficial framework of reality in a number of circumstances. For example, countless numbers of people with chronic pain problems have learned the benefits of self-hypnosis to calm themselves and their reactions to physical pain. While the term â€Å"hypnosis† often carries a certain number of negative connotations that do not truly convey the beneficial and physiological relation response that is the legitimate hypnotic response, many people are still hesitant about the concept in general. The simple fact is that hypnosis is not a form of mind control and is not the will of one person being exerted over another. Hypnosis certainly cannot force someone to do something they would not normally do. It is neither a strange, mystical force or a state of being unconscious or out-of-control. What is hypnosis it is what the Tufts University Health Nutrition Letter (10/00) calls â€Å"really about a person taking control of his or her own mind and body† (pp. 4). Health professionals, mental health counselors, even sports performance consultants advocate hypnosis as a form of stress reduction, pain management and personal performance enhancement. The ability to harness and control one’s personal feelings and attitudes has proven to be immensely beneficial and offers potentials far beyond that of a some sort of self-proclaimed fakir performing tricks to make â€Å"members of the audience† dance on table tops or bark like dogs. Hypnosis actually has little to do with performing tricks or mind control and everything to do with reaching the inner stillness that exists at the core of all human consciousness and can serve as a guide and comfort in countless situations. The Benefits and Processes of Hypnosis Hypnosis is a process that leads an individual into a deep state of rest and relaxation that allows him or her to â€Å"release† physical or psychic pain or emotional negativity. It is possible to say that the process takes place through the conscious access of the unconscious mind. While such a statement may sound like double-speak, it is a verifiable and medically-proven means of relaxation, visualization, pain management, and self-awareness. Generally, the medical and psychological literature indicates that there are two primary characteristics of hypnosis. First, is the experience of steadily focusing on a specific â€Å"object. † This is not the Hollywood-created watch swinging back and forth on a chain in front of a person’s eyes. Instead, it may be something as innocuous as the individual’s own hand or painting on the wall of a hypno-therapist’s office. Focusing on a single object allows for a greater inward focus and the ability to ignore distractions. That ability and freedom then allows a person to better understand him/herself and their life. The second characteristic is that hypnosis actually leads to the experience of being relaxed and at ease. Under the best of circumstances, a subject’s body, mind, and emotions reach a natural, balanced state that can best be describes as relaxing, restful, calm, peaceful, and comforting. Like meditation, hypnosis allows a person to experience a clear and focused mind and permits a separation from the necessity of attending to the multitude of extraneous thoughts and concerns that so occupy the consciousness of most people. In this sense, the experience is accurately considered to be a return to a natural and balanced state of being. Such a state of being is generally a rarity in the modern world of information overload and the constant need to â€Å"multi-task† in terms of work, relationships, and even self-care. Hypnosis allows a person to disconnect from the chaos of the world and focus on the inner realities of his or her own consciousness. According to Jackson (1999), hypnotism has many applications in modern day life and researchers have repeatedly proven that therapists using suggestive techniques through hypnosis are able too alleviate pain and change behavior. He explains further that: â€Å"Psychiatrists, medical doctors and psychologists, along with a shadowy brigade of less credentialed practitioners, have used it for more than two centuries in one form or another to treat pain and illness. Since World War II, it has slipped quietly and discreetly into the clinical mainstream, to the point where the American Medical Association, many HMOs and even Medicare now recognize it† (pp. 126) He goes on to note that not only is hypnosis a useful and effective tool in dealing with therapeutic concerns, it is â€Å"employed today in the treatment of a variety of physical and mental afflictions, in combating phobias, in the control of bad habits like smoking and overeating, and in the all-embracing area of ‘performance enhancement’ for strivers ranging from sprinters to stockbrokers. Hypnosis is an idea whose time has come and gone and come again, and this time it appears to be staying† (pp. 126) Larkin (1999) explains further saying that â€Å"there is now evidence of a neurobiological basis for hypnosis† (pp. 386). She then quotes Donald Price of the University of Florida in Gainesville as saying that: â€Å"People think that during hypnosis, the brain goes to sleep. In fact, specific brain areas become activated† (pp. 386). The results of a study utilizing â€Å"positron emission tomography scans† were conducted on volunteers who had been led through a hypnotic relaxation exercise. The study’s results suggested that the â€Å"hypnotic trance state† differs from normal consciousness, and that it expedite the course of hypnotic suggestions. According to Larkin, Price says: â€Å"My idea is that when you’re hypnotized, you experience things automatically, not deliberately. If someone suggests that your arm is raising up, its as if your arm is doing it by itself† (pp. 386). Cowles (1998) explains: â€Å"The preconceptions of scientific, medical, and psychological professionals affecting hypnosis arise within a cognitive schema that details a particular view of the world we experience through our senses. Cognitive schemas create a context in which sensory experiences are organized, classified, and categorized in a systematic way. This allows us to quickly and critically evaluate information and make comparisons† (pp. 357). Considering such a fact helps to explain the hesitancy some people, both therapists and clients, may feel regarding accessing a way of knowing that does not neatly fit into the file marked â€Å"cognitive† or â€Å"literal interpretation. † Hypnosis is a state of focused awareness. It is something everyone in every walk of life has experienced at one time or another, for example the process of waking up or in becoming thoroughly absorbed in a good book. The characteristics of the state vary from person to person; it cannot be pinpointed on an EEG and the experience is different for everyone even though there are common elements. But the fact remains that hypnosis does not have a unique and unmistakable insignia indicating its presence. Altered States of Consciousness and Hypnosis Bancroft (1998) explains that altered states of consciousness can serve to promote psychological growth in a multiple of ways. â€Å"Altered states have the ability to change a persons perspective of themselves. Consciousness tries to be objectified, but it is subjective. By changing one’s internal perceptions reality changes. Altered states provide the means by which the ability to experience a different self-image/concept is available† (altered_states/altered_states. html). This allows a person to potentially manifest new abilities, move beyond limitations from past negative experiences, and break out of socially imposed constraints. Bancroft adds that: â€Å"Altered states can serve as a vehicle for a person to move beyond the confines of logical/rational thought. The ability to perceive a situation from an entirely different viewpoint is known to produce insights, creative solutions, and psychological breakthroughs. Rather than being locked into logical assessments a person can suspend deep seated assumptions (beliefs) through the use of altered states† (altered_states/altered_states. tml). One can address the issue of the value associated in the profession of virtually any form of psychotherapy from both subjective and purely objective viewpoints. It should be noted that the vast majority of those who enter the practice of psychotherapy do so because of their very genuine desire to help other people. Therefore, they are generally willing to ex plore what some may consider as â€Å"alternative† practices, the category hypnotherapy and hypnosis are usually classified under. Far too often, the use of hypnosis in helping people has been damaged by ignorant or unscrupulous practitioners who put ideological and self-promotional goals before the welfare of their patients. The resulting backlash, causes those not involved in the controversy to question the importance or effectiveness of psychotherapy. What the general public needs to understand is that mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and other forms of assistance in dealing with the difficulties associated with daily life are all based on an understanding of conscious and unconscious mental functioning. Clearly, one avenue of that functioning is seen in the process of hypnosis. Spiegel (1998) explains: The hypnotic state is one in which highly focused attention (absorption) is coupled, usually, with physical relaxation, heightened responsiveness to social cues (suggestibility), and an increased capacity to cut off from awareness certain perceptions, memories, and other aspects of consciousness (dissociation). The state can be entered and left in seconds; long-winded inductions and dangling watches are not necessary† (pp. 5). Spiegel (1998) also points out that hypnosis typically occupies an â€Å"unusual place† in that dynamic of understanding of conscious and unconscious experience and reaction and that it is â€Å"sometimes overvalued and sometimes given no respect at all. Both its benefits and its risks have been exaggerated, but hypnosis persists despite excesses of flattery and contempt because of its many clinical uses. It an excellent way to mobilize a patients resources to alter physical sensations, moderate stress reactions and other psychiatric symptoms, and enhance emotional sensitivity† (pp. ). Such a process of alteration then leads to a new way of thinking and a new way of directing intention and attitude that can help break negative patterns of thinking and/or behavior. Certainly, no reputable counselor would suggest that hypnosis is the proverbial â€Å"be all and all. † It is, however, and effective tool and the person who most wants to assist others in their cogniti ve and emotional responses should take full advantage of any tool at their disposal that could help in the process. Being in an altered states can promote psychological growth through the freeing of a passageway for cognitive and emotional expression. It is important to understand that the release of stress, emotional hardships, mental confusion, and negative thoughts is much more easily attainable in an altered state. A person’s dreams present a healthy channel for the expression of unconscious concerns and ideas. And meditation serves as a valuable tool for the expression of one’s spirituality and self-awareness. Therefore, a combination of both dreams and meditation can produce a remarkably advantageous experience for the subject since hypnosis serves as that sort of blend. Mentally (and artificially) constructed barriers may rapidly fade away in an altered state resulting in the always-gratifying experience of interconnection, peace, contentment, and a sense of unity with the universe. Cowles (1998) also believes that hypnosis is often disregarded and undervalued because it cannot be currently explained by natural science or scientific method. He suggests that perception prefigures embodiment and, therefore, creates the power of suggestion. â€Å"As an individuals preconception of hypnosis often makes him or her wary and mistrustful of undergoing the experience, so too, scientific researchers’ preconceptions can prevent professionals from fully accepting the actual observed phenomenal experiences of hypnosis† (pp. 357). Regardless of such a concern, the fact remains that hypnosis can serve as a valuable means by which a therapist and client may work together in a realm that lies outside what would be most often thought of as daily reality and conscious thought. Access to such a different â€Å"channel† of awareness cannot help but assist in the larger processes of people understanding one another and themselves. Conclusion Hypnosis has few downsides other than how it is perceived by many. Baker (1998) makes an extremely valid point when he notes: â€Å"Ultimately, all hypnosis is self-hypnosis. It is a serious misunderstanding to credit hypnotists with special powers or arcane techniques. Hypnotic subjects are always in control of their mental processes. They have made a kind of social contract to comply with the hypnotist’s suggestions, which in effect are merely requests† (pp. ). Hypnosis allows for the greatest possible use of the imagination and encourages a relaxation process that cannot often be equaled in any other framework of consciousness. Baker also comments: â€Å"The legendary psychotherapist Milton Erickson, when asked to provide his definition of hypnosis, responded, It’s concentrating on your tho ughts, values, memories, and beliefs about life. This definition is the simple truth† (pp. 6). In accessing that â€Å"simple truth† both the client and the hypnotist are able to gain a greater understanding of the processes and the motivations of the person under hypnosis. Often, the clarity presented through a hypnotic state allows for an emotional or intellectual breakthrough in understanding that serves to help a person expand beyond whatever constrictions had been holding them back from being more closely aligned with their true nature and more aware of the ideas, attitudes, and beliefs that they most value. BIBLIOGRAPHY Baker, Robert A. (1998, February) A view of hypnosis. Harvard Mental Health Letter, v14 n8, pp. 5(2). Bancroft, Mark (1998) Altered states and psychological growth, EnSpire Press, enspire. com/hypnosis_information_articles/altered_states/altered_states. tml Cowles, Richard S. (1998, July) The magic of hypnosis: is it child’s play? The Journal of Psychology, v132 n4, pp. 357(10). Jackson, Donald Dale (1999, March) You will feel no pain (hypnosis), Smithsonian, v29 i12, p126(1) Larkin, Marilynn (1999, January 30) Hypnosis makes headway in the clinic, The Lancet, v353 i9150, pp. 386(1). Spiegel, David (1998, September) Hypnosi s. Harvard Mental Health Letter, v15 n3, pp. 5(2). _____, (2000, October) Hypnosis: Controlling the pain, controlling your health, Tufts University Health Nutrition Letter, v18 i8, pp. 4.

Knights Templar, the Famous Crusading Order

Knights Templar, the Famous Crusading Order The Knights Templar were also known as Templars, Templar Knights, Poor Knights of Solomons Temple, Poor Knights of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon,  and Knights of the Temple. Their motto was Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto Thy Name be the Glory, from Psalm 115. The Origin of the Templars The route traveled by pilgrims from Europe to the Holy Land was in need of policing. In 1118 or 1119, not long after the success of the First Crusade, Hugh de Payns and eight other knights offered their services to the patriarch of Jerusalem for just this purpose. They took vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience, followed the Augustinian rule, and patrolled the pilgrim route to aid and defend pious travelers. King Baldwin II of Jerusalem gave the knights quarters in a wing of the royal palace that had been part of the Jewish Temple; from this they got the names Templar and Knights of the Temple. The Official Establishment of the Knights Templar For the first decade of their existence, the Knights Templar were few in number. Not many fighting men were willing to take the Templar vows. Then, thanks largely to the efforts of Cistercian monk Bernard of Clairvaux, the fledgling order was given papal recognition at the Council of Troyes in 1128. They also received a specific rule for their order (one clearly influenced by the Cistercians). Templar Expansion Bernard of Clairvaux wrote an extensive treatise, In Praise of the New Knighthood, that raised awareness of the order, and the Templars grew in popularity. In 1139 Pope Innocent II placed the Templars directly under papal authority, and they were no longer subject to any bishop in whose diocese they might hold property. As a result they were able to establish themselves in numerous locations. At the height of their power they had about 20,000 members, and they garrisoned every town of any considerable size in the Holy Land. Templar Organization The Templars were led by a Grand Master; his deputy was the Seneschal. Next came the Marshal, who was responsible for individual commanders, horses, arms, equipment, and ordering supplies. He usually carried the standard, or specifically directed a specially-appointed standard-bearer. The Commander of the Kingdom of Jerusalem was the treasurer and shared a certain authority with the Grand Master, balancing his power; other cities also had Commanders with specific regional responsibilities. The Draper issued clothes and bed linen and monitored the brothers appearance to keep them living simply. Other ranks formed to supplement the above, depending on the region. The bulk of the fighting force was made up of knights and sergeants. Knights were the most prestigious; they wore the white mantle and red cross, carried knightly weapons, rode horses and had the services of a squire. They usually came from the nobility. Sergeants filled other roles as well as engaging in battle, such as blacksmith or mason. There were also squires, who were originally hired out but later allowed to join the order; they performed the essential job of caring for the horses. Money and the Templars Though individual members took vows of poverty, and their personal possessions were limited to the essentials, the order itself received donations of money, land and other valuables from the pious and the grateful. The Templar organization grew very wealthy. In addition, the military strength of the Templars made it possible to collect, store, and transport bullion to and from Europe and the Holy Land with a measure of safety. Kings, noblemen, and pilgrims used the organization as a kind of bank. The concepts of safe deposit and travelers checks originated in these activities. The Downfall of the Templars In 1291, Acre, the last remaining Crusader stronghold in the Holy Land, fell to the Muslims, and the Templars no longer had a purpose there. Then, in 1304, rumors of irreligious practices and blasphemies committed during secret Templar initiation rites began to circulate. Very likely false, they nevertheless gave King Philip IV of France grounds to arrest every Templar in France on Oct. 13, 1307. He had many tortured to make them confess to charges of heresy and immorality. It is generally believed that Philip did this simply to take their vast wealth, though he may also have feared their growing power. Philip had previously been instrumental in getting a Frenchman elected pope, but it still took some maneuvering to convince Clement V to order all Templars in all countries arrested. Eventually, in 1312, Clement suppressed the order; numerous Templars were executed or imprisoned, and the Templar property that wasnt confiscated was transferred to the Hospitallers. In 1314 Jacques de Molay, the last Grand Master of the Templar Knights, was burned at the stake.

The internationalization strategies and activities of Bentley in China Dissertation

The internationalization strategies and activities of Bentley in China - Dissertation Example COMMENDATIONS 35 7.1 Revisiting Hypotheses 35 7.2 Recommendations 36 References 38 1. INTRODUCTION International business concerns with the transactions (service to foreign markets) that take place across the national borders, they usually involve more than one country (Punnett 2011). International business differs from domestic business because in international business there are variations in commercial environment and requirements (Punnett 2011). International business is much more complex to manage and involves money conversion. Working in international markets must be done within the limitations imposed by international trade and investment system. There are more risks involved in international business as well such as political risk, cross-cultural risk, exchange rate risk and commercial risk (Hendrix 1991). Despite these risks, firms go global because they get access to wider markets for their products, they can realize economies of scale and/or scope, and they can benefit fro m experiential learning (Hiriyappa 2013). An understanding of globalization is also necessary when studying international business (Khanna, Palepu &Sinha 2005). Globalization is a greater integrated and interdependent world economy that has resulted in greater integration of goods market, production and supply and labor and capital market (Mrak 2000). Although the purpose of globalization was to improve the economy of the world and to remove trade barriers (Trade in a Globalizing World, 2008), globalization today has emerged as a big challenge for businesses. It has become relatively difficult to identify the internationalization strategies and choose the countries to conduct business with (Hill 2005). It has been observed that most multinational firms follow the traditional internationalization strategies and thus struggle to make their presence felt in the host country. It has also been observed that multinational firms find it easier to invest in developed countries rather than e merging economies. Firms find choosing the correct internationalization tool and the appropriate mode of entry particularly difficult when entering an emerging market (Palepu, n.d.). 1.1 Research Purpose, Aims and Objectives The main aim of this research study is to explore the process of internationalization in the context of an emerging economy. China is selected for this study and internalization strategies and activities of Bentley has been explored. The study aims to explore in detail the theories of internalization and then apply it on the case of Bentley that how Bentley has managed to excel in China so well in the face of competition and globalization. The study

The responsibility of the individual to society Essay

The responsibility of the individual to society - Essay Example Each individual is saddled with the responsibility of working with other individuals of the society in order to help the society to achieve the goals and objectives of building a better world. It is through the symbiotic relationship that exists between the different individuals of the society that would guarantee the maintenance of the sovereignty of the society and the peaceful existence of each individual of the society. The law of nature has made it important for the individuals of the society to play specific roles. A notable philosopher, Antiphon stipulates that the law of Nature is based on each individual’s instinct to do things that would keep them away from danger, that is, individuals are expected to do things that are beneficial to life and naturally pleasant. The implication of this is that as individuals living in the society, they must try as much as possible to do things that are beneficial to the society. Antiphon described the adherence to the law of Nature a s the observance of the principle of self-preservation and when each individual have the instinct to do things that would keep them safe from danger, the society would also be free from danger. This law of nature must be observed by all the individuals living in the society and any attempt to evade the laws of nature would be met with dire consequences (Plato). Socrates believed that, individuals had the right to obey whichever authority, they choose to obey and that, individuals must take full responsibilities for these decisions (Walzer). This means that every individual is not under any compulsion to do things against their will. Socrates’ belief is based on the freedom of choice. Socrates’ argument is an epistemological one and the British philosopher, John Stuart Mill also belongs to this school of thought. Socrates and Mill believed that every individual have the innate ability to decide what is best for them (Walzer). Socrates believed that each individual must make attempt to discern the truth by themselves through closely controlled, self-effacing and tolerant dialogue (Walzer). Quite similar to Socrates’ arguments, Mill opined that the onus lies on the shoulders of the individual to decide what is best for him or her. According to Mill, â€Å"Justice implies something which it is not only right to do, and wrong not to do, but which some individual person can claim from us as his moral right.† (Mill par. 14). The two of them agree that people should tolerate the opinion of others as this would help in establishing the truth about a particular subject matter as the use of force or compulsion in making people accept a particular point of view is not the best pedagogical approach (Walzer). One of the founding fathers of the United States of America, Thomas Jefferson also recognizes the responsibility of the individual in a society. Jefferson spoke on how the American constitution should be interpreted and said that people shou ld be given freedom on how they observe the written laws of the constitution. He claims that the observance of the constitution is one of the obligations of each individual of the US, but it is not the most important priority, Jefferson asserts that the most important duty of every American citizen are to defend the country at all times and maintain the sovereignty of the country (Jefferson). According to Jefferson, â€Å"