Individual Privacy vs National Security Essay

Introduction Since the terrorist attack of 9/11, America has been in a high level conflict with terrorist around the world, particularly the group known as Al Qaeda. There has been many discussions within the U.S. Congress about the measures of how to effectively combat this organization and their members, here and abroad. Consequently, the issue of individual privacy vs. national security has generated discussions within the civilian and government sectors. To date, the discussions continues with many private citizens who feels they are constantly losing their privacy , when will it end, and how long will it continue. In this report, it will discuss where privacy issues began and where the public see individual privacy vs. national security come together in its most recent society. Do the public succumb to total governmental control, or do they propose continued debate in the nation’s process of the national security process. There are always two sides of a story, the pros and cons, the laurels and pitfalls, or the good and the bad, and for the public, it has to decide which side in each of these is the right side it feels is the best possible side to be on. One hand, national security is decided by the government to protect its citizens, by the measures it puts into place it feels is necessary, and what duration these measures will be in effect. On the other hand, the level of security and safety is set without discrimination to all. This results in the dilemma of the battle between individual privacy versus national security issues, that are essential to the individual, the public, and government. The Claim: What privacy should an individual lose to protect against terrorist because It gives society a level of feeling protected by the protections in place. The public can only maintain a limit of safety by giving up a degree of privacy to governmental agencies in order to protect this basic need; and it is a trade off to give up a certain amount of privacy, but not complete privacy. Justification of Claim: The justification of the claim is that it is prudent and the right of the public to debate the process of privacy, which the public has come to rely on for many years. Even though limited under the constitution, privacy rights and national security is important to the country’s citizens on all levels of government. The Bill of Rights is the area where citizens’ rights are specified, and over the years of war, and specifically after 9/11, citizens have seen and felt an erosion of their rights. Constitutional protections of individual rights not expressed specifically by the Bill of Rights is being at best controversial, (Linder 2012a). Many originalists, including most famously Judge Robert Bork in his ill-fated Supreme Court confirmation hearings, have argued that no such general right of privacy exists. The Supreme Court, however, beginning as early as 1923 and continuing through its recent decisions, has broadly read the â€Å"liberty† guarantee of the Fourteenth Amendment to guarantee a fairly broad right of privacy that has come to encompass decisions about child rearing, procreation, marriage, and termination of medical treatment. Polls show most Americans support this broader reading of the Constitution, (Linder 2012b). Looking forward under this decision, each citizen relies on its government to maintain a fair level of protection and security as well as maintaining a balanced level of privacy. The justification for this claim shows how the rights of individuals is a must, within the American society, compared to the national security of the country’s territory and a balanced approach it must give to its people within previous rulings. Individual Privacy vs. National Security After 9/11 a set of laws was set in place to protect us from Terrorism and terrorist attacks and placed under a new governmental act called the Patriot Act. With the past occurrences of 9/11, with the airlines planes crashing into the twin towers in New York City, and the Pentagon, it was not hard to convince the public this action was not needed. The residing administration presented stacks of follow-up attacks to Congress from experts and officials on a daily basis with grim pictures or scenarios of possible attacks on nuclear facilities, schools, shopping centers, and  others alike, that the public saw measures in place as acceptable and adequate, (Downing 2008a). Downing further states; Americans have seen their privacy and other rights curtailed in previous wars but the present-day privations are unfounded only in the duration of these rights. Just how long will the duration of war on terrorism and rights last, it has already lasted longer than any other US wars. Further sources of concern to the public, are the rich array of devices and techniques of the government, such as improved computer programs, databases, and surveillance gear, never before used in previous wars and never devoted as resources to any state or its partners. What if any remedies are there in the political system in the privacy of individuals versus national security protections and concerns? The courts have narrowed away some of the concerns, but the bulk of these powers, many of them are still persisting. Congress has been hesitant to amend passing the Patriot Act and its follow-ups, due to fear of being labeled unpatriotic, but also for fear of being blamed for further terror attacks. So far, no president or presidential candidate will probably seek to curb the purview of the Committee on the public safety, nor hardly mention future changes. Privacy, like its colleague individualism, has been in decline anyway †Ã¢â‚¬Å" putting up only token resistance here and th ere against mass society, a corporate-based economy, and relentless bureaucratization. So perhaps the war on terror requires us to bid a fond adieu to privacy and send it off to government bureaus for safekeeping. They broke it, it’s theirs (Downing, 2008b) According to laws enacted by the government after recent terrorist activities, it has the right to eavesdrop on telephone communications, monitor online communications of suspects, and incorporate surveillance on anyone it feels is a threat. With recent attacks upon American soil and the loss of thousands of lives, law enforcement agencies have asked for broader and pervasive laws to counter security challenges. Some have asked if these changes will impact the privacy of its citizens, and indeed over the years, history has shown the rights and liberties of citizens have been curtailed and in some instances revoked completely. One example, during World War II 120,000 Japanese Americans were forced into internment camps. Nowhere in the U.S. Constitution is there a harmonization-of-laws guarantee, by definition (An adjustment of differences and inconsistencies among the difference of  measurements, methods, procedures, schedules, specifications, or systems to make them uniformed to or mutually compatible with). In 1803 Chief John Marshall said in his opinion Marbury v. Madison, the Supreme Court is the final arbiter of â€Å"what the law is.† 2003 Tracy Mitrano Marshall also stated, that settling the duties of inconsistencies, disharmonizations, and contradictions falls to the duties of the Court, which in its practices, means that many such problems may go unaddressed for years and some of the controversies may never be resolved. Complications and constitutionally are thought of as checks and balances, and the cost of checks and balances systems are weighed in confusion and consternation and capricious that have the appearance of resolving conflicts once and for all. Before we go deeper into the analysis of the legislation, let’s examine the following terms of privacy and security. The American Heritage Dictionary defines privacy as secluded from sight, presence or intrusions of others, confined to one person. There are those who have pointed out that nowhere in the constitution the word privacy appears. The word security comes from the Latin word Securus, meaning carefree. Definitions of security begin with freedom from danger, risk, harm, etc. No matter what measures are taken to assert security, no one should think the outcome would mean complete freedom. Notice how the definition of the word security, implies that its function is as the means to quality, freedom, no less and not as an end to itself, as balance is the key. The American history provides us a variety of examples of how that balance has shifted over time. The Alien and Sedition Acts of the 1790s were the first example of a federal law believed to have thrown off the balance in favor of security over civil liberties, designed to silence and weaken the Democratic-Republican Party by the Federal P arty. To protect the new United States from an antagonistic French Revolutionary government as legal devices over the Naturalization Act, that actually backfired, ensuring the Revolution of the 1800’s to expire. This episode stands as a lesson of federal legislative overreach-political impulses of legislation touted as patriotic and necessary for national security, and the dissolving of the Federal Party. The internment of the Japanese, remains the opposite of Roosevelt’s emergency measures, which were the most shameful of all mistaken emergency legislative measures. As in each case of emergency legislation that protects national security, it also  curbs civil liberties and must be interpreted in context of a very complex history. Acts and organizations such as FERPA, HIPAA, and FSMA shares the purpose of preserving the privacy of records in keeping with the foundational tenents of fair-information practices. These fair-information practices are as such are transparency, relevancy, the ability to correct records, institutional obligations to maintain records of disclosures and provide notice to subjects, and finally, the security of those records. Dealing with paper records years ago, under FERPA regulations, colleges and universities now are struggling with the task of bringing electronic security up to the same level of confidentiality and availability. Due to the creation of IT security programs-which include policies, procedures, guidelines, risk assessment, and education/training-corresponds to new legal developments such as FMSA and HIPAA, which raises the specter of liability, legal requirements should also come as an encouragement for IT professionals. Intrusion-detection and -response plans require leadership, articulated practices, enforcement polices, and education within the campus communities, all of which relevant hardware and software as well as highly trained personnel to address these matters adequately and professionally. Sharing-of-information legislation, under national security, such as the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act (the USA- Patriot Act) and the Homeland Security Act pulls in a direction contrary to privacy legislation. It is the longest piece of legislation of emergency legislation, well over a hundred pages, passed in the shortest time period, in all American history. It comes with three overall goals: (1) to enhance government to government information sharing (by lifting regulations that had monitored law enforcement relations between federal, state and local authorities, (2) to allow government surveillance and encourage private entities to share information with the government (by alleviating legal liability); and (3) create and expand existing criminal law design to fight terrorism (by adding specific provisions and expanding the definition and powers of existing legislation. So vast is the reorganizatio n of the federal government under this act , the implications have yet to be spelled out. But there are two are already along with, the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) program, which requires every college and  university to report, abuses and fraud crimes, specifically allowing the death penalty for any abuse, (i.e. hacking) that results in serious physical injury or death. The second is the goal of the USA-Patriot Act-government surveillance and these two aspects of the Homeland Security Act have the most direct impact on scholarship and research, libraries, and IT resources in higher education. (Tracy Mitrano, 2003) Further in notations of privacy and national security, (Bajaj and Austen 28 Sep 2010) report, the United States and law enforcement and security agencies have raised concerns with new proposals electronic powers to track terrorist and criminals and unscramble their encrypted messages through e-mail and other digital communications. Officials from India have also stated they will seek greater access to encrypted data sent over popul ar Internet sources such as Gmail, Skype and other sources such as private networks that allow users to bypass traditional phone line links or logging in to remote corporate computer systems. Some have said that India’s campaign to monitor data transmissions within their borders may hurt other important national security goals: by attracting other global businesses and becoming a hub for technology innovations. In another report by, (Kandra, Anne; Brandt, Andrew; Aquino, Grace Jan 2002) Federal legislation passed in October gave investigators more tools for apprehending terrorists. Proponents of the law said it was needed to protect ourselves. Opponents said it will threaten our constitutional rights. But whatever position you take on these issues, it is important to know how the new laws will affect everyone’s lives online. They continue to report, the Patriot Act is complex and powerful, and it also broadens the definition of terrorism and increases the penalties for the crime of terrorism. Some of the more drastic changes in the law involve electronic surveillance. The act allows federal investigators to implement more powerful tools to monitor phone call s, email messages, and even Web surfing. What are the implications of this new type of surveillance for your Internet privacy? It is difficult to say exactly. The Patriot Act is vague on many key points, and understandably, law enforcement officials are not eager to show details about tools like the controversial Internet surveillance system, DCS1000 (and more commonly recognized by its previous name, Carnivore). â€Å"One of the biggest issues with Carnivore is that we don’t really know how it works,† says Ari Schwartz, associate director of the  Center for Democracy in Technology, a nonprofit group based in Washington, D.C., that focuses on preserving privacy and civil liberties on the Internet. What are the implications of this new type of surveillance for your Internet privacy? It is difficult to say exactly. The Patriot Act is vague on many key points, and understandably, law enforcement officials are not eager to show details about tools like the controversial Internet surveillance system, DCS1000 (and more commonly recognized by its previous name, Carnivore). â€Å"One of the biggest issues with Carnivore is that we don’t really know how it works,† says Ari Schwartz, associate director of the Center for Democracy in Technology, a nonprofit group based in Washington, D.C., that focuses on preserving privacy and civil liberties on the Internet. It is probably a fair assessment to say that joking when sending an e-mail about planting a bomb is not very good idea these days, and researching biological terror techniques over the Internet is not conceivably a good idea which would also draw suspicion. (Kandra et al., Jan 2002) Under the Patriot Act Amendments, the FERPA Act has a health and safety exception. It is well known to students and administrators, who invoke it to look at a student’s record in the case where a student is missing and police hopes to find clues to the student’s disappearance from their e-mail. The Patriot Act added a new terrorism exception design to protect the health and safety of everyone e lse. It is worth noting the broad definition of domestic terrorism, meaning activities that involve dangerous acts of human life, that are in violation of the criminal laws of the United States or any state, that appear to be intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population or individuals, influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion , or affect the conduct of a government by mass destruction, assassination, or kidnapping and occur primarily within the United States. Within the principal of the Homeland Security act, its job is to reorganize a significant amount of the federal law enforcement and immigration and naturalization bureaucracy under the roof of one central agency, which grew out of concern that compartmentalization federal intelligence and law enforcement structures did not permit adequate study and intelligence and warning. The Homeland Security Act has already had a noticeable impact on immigration. The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) a mandatory government issued program that tracks  the whereabouts of visiting foreign students attending colleges and universities. The concept is nothing new, as there were widespread disuse of bureaucratic disorganization from within the INS. The Patriot Act echoed the existing INS laws to require mandatory reporting and enforcement, and the Homeland Security Act passed on the baton. Civil privacy legislation that includes security legislation such as FERPA, HIPAA, and FSMA should be the rule. National security information sharing and anti-terrorist legislation, such as the USA-PATRIOT Act and the Homeland Security Act—should be the exception. With the USA-PATRIOT Act divergence from traditional constitutional standards, there have been many people who are concerned that the exceptions may soon swallow the rule. Tensions between these two types of legislations speaks to the more general concern of the American society at large, about a reduction of privacy overall, whether caused by changes in the law, in social norms, or in the very nature of information technologies. Even today with new technology its task has grown and evolved in recent years, and over the past three decades, the challenges have grown to protect individual and personal privacy, and to curb privacy violations. In general, several surveys and polls that were taken seem to suggest that the public feels there has been a loss of privacy and intrusions and the backdrop behind these new proposals could potentially impact privacy and civil liberties on a greater scale. Analysis from an ethics point of view, there are major concerns under national debate on tensions between privacy and security. Below are the following measures of security being proposed and public, personal and privacy issues under consideration. 1. Stricter security measures at airports, ports, points of interest in the U.S., and gathering places such as stadiums, and other large mass venue, (A) Extensive checks of baggage, personal searches and vehicles, (B) Intensive custom and immigration checks, (C) Restrictions within airport areas and certain public places, (D) Additional spot searches and personal property checks in key public areas, (E) Increased surveillance and monitoring of movements in key public areas. 2. Detailed, accurate identification and verification of identities and background,. (A) Mandatory issuance of national identity cards for all people, (B) Increase use of facial profiling systems for assessment of potential suspects. 3. Increased surveillance of all communities. (A) Monitoring via Internet  (‘Carnivore’}wireless, wire-lines, satellite, etc., (B) Broader wiretapping powers, (C) Broader (and possible indefinite) detention, arrest, and asset seizure powers, (D) Authority for blanket searches, secret searches, (E) Website activity monitoring and data collection, (F) Access to personal and business records of all kinds. 4. Tighter immigration laws to screen immigrants/visitors more thoroughly, (A) More thorough screening of credentials and backgrounds of visa applicants, (B) Tracking of movements of immigrants and other visiting foreign nationals through databases. (Krishnamurthy, 2001a) CRITERIA FOR ETHICAL DECISION-MAKING: (See additional charts posted be low by Krishnamurthy). POSSIBLE ACTIONS The proposed increases in security measures may be beneficial for the good of everyone if implemented in an impartial manner regardless to race, ethnicity, religion. Accountability and transparency in law enforcement procedures, especially on privacy issues must continue to be preserved, despite recent attacks. The judicial system must be empowered to deal effectively with all abuses of proposed security measures with regards to protecting the constitutional rights and liberties of all its citizens. It must also ensure anyone accused has adequate legal representation and a fair chance to prove their innocence. Ensure that the current atmosphere of rich ethnic and cultural diversity environment of the country with one another is not compromised. 1. Assess that this is a real and tangible problem we are facing. 2. If so, can it be handled without impacting/violating privacy at all. 3. If not, can it be handled by making it as less intrusive as possible. There are possibilities that additional lengthy investments for public infrastructure needed to be made nationwide to expand capability of existing systems or newly incorporated systems to handle the challenges. 5. VIRTUES APPROACH GOALS: A focus on individual development of virtues A thoughtful reflection on self-realization of human potential The developing virtuous habits and attitudes leading to ethical action throughout the communities. POSSIBLE ACTIONS An assessment of whether the proposed measures will reinforce positive virtues we hold important, such as our patriotism, self-sacrifice, compassion, patience and courage, or whether these options could harbor destructive traits leading to religious intolerance, less compassion, racism, fear, and suspicion. To impress upon more awareness through debates and discussions across the nation to distinguish religion from universal human values of peaceful co-existence, mutual respect, and non-violence, and  human dignity. To focus on cultivating tolerance, compassion and patience (Krishnamurthy, 2001c). The following abstract articles shows and or explains further privacy and security issues since the terrorism of 9/11/2001 put in place as part of measures private citizens may need to become accustomed to in their part of loss of privacy rights in their security of national security. Security and Privacy After September 11: The Health Care Example Abstract: The following article examines the collaboration between privacy and security in relations to the medical rule, issued in 2000 under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Studies shows that the HIPAA stands up well to concerns of post 9/11 era. Affairs about public safety are met by current provisions that permit revelations to protect national security, to react to emergency situations, and to respond to law enforcement investigations. The article examines in particular detail the envisioned Model State Emergency Health Powers Act, sketched in the wake of the 2001 anthrax attacks. It has been argued by Professors Lawrence Gostin and James Hodge that this Act is justified by a new â€Å"model of information sharing† for medical information purposes. This article concludes that public health concerns are suitably addressed by the existing HIPAA rule, and that a â€Å"model of information sharing† sends completely the wrong signal about how the health system will handle issues of data privacy and security. More generally, the article investigates positions of â€Å"security vs. privacy†, where both values are antagonistic, and situations of â€Å"security and privacy†, where both values work together. (Swire and Steinfeld January 22, 2003) Civil Liberties vs. Security: Public Opinion in the Context of the Terrorist Attacks on America Abstract: This abstract article discusses, in the tradition of research on political tolerance and democratic rights in context, this analysis uses a national survey of Americans directed shortly after the September 11, 2001 attack on America to study people’s eagerness to trade off civil liberties for grander personal safety and security. We find that the bigger people’s perception of threat, the lower their endorsement for civil liberties. This  effect interrelates, however, with trust in government. The lower people’s trust in government, the less willing they will agree for a trade off of civil liberties for security, regardless of their perceptions of threat. It is known that African Americans are much less likely or willing to trade civil liberties for security than their counterparts of whites or Latinos, even with other circumstances taken into account. This may be their long-standing commitment of their struggles for human and civil rights. In matters of party issues, liberals may be less likely to trade off civil liberties than moderates or conservatives, but liberals tend to converge toward the position taken by conservatives when their sense of the threat of terrorism becomes high. While this is not a projection of the future, the results suggest that Americans’ commitment to democratic values is greatly dependent on other concerns and that the context of a wide-ranging threat to national or personal security can provoke a considerable readiness to give up rights. (Davis & Silver, 2003) Mobile cameras as new technologies of surveillance? How citizens experience the use of mobile cameras in public nightscapes Abstract: In surveillance studies using mobile camera technologies in public nightscapes, terms such as sousveillance and inverse surveillance define forms of surveillance that have a bottom-up and democratic character. On the other hand, in this paper this democratic notion is queried by looking into procedures and occurrences with both Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) and mobile cameras by Dutch citizens. By superseding in the nightlife district of the Rotterdami city centre, data has been collected on both mobile and CCTV camera confrontations. From this, an investigation is made into how mobile cameras are practiced in the Nightlife landscape. Comparing these practices with CCTV provides understanding into new surveillance issues that come into view due to the mobile camera. Analyzing surveillance technologies, provides prospective as hybrid groups, that may take different shapes in different places, and allows for involvements that attempts to improve our perception of current changes in the surveillance technology landscape. (Timan & Oudshoorn, 2012) The Spy in the Cab: The Use and Abuse of Taxicab Cameras in San Francisco Abstract: Since 2003 security cameras were required in San Francisco taxicabs. Their story has come to contain many features that are familiar to surveillance examinations. Their acceptability is explored of the trajectory using the concept of surveillance slack, and the stages and tensions where the line of use and abuse is has been drawn. The effectiveness of what the cameras are perceived to be doing, the integration of its use, and how the slackness or tautness of surveillance interacts in tension and conflicts. Since its first introduction, the new technology initial reaction was met with moral panic. This is just another element of privacy intrusion in the name of national security, the public now must adapt to. (Anderson, 2012) These abstracts are the several indications of elements put into place after the 9/11 Terrorist attacks in 2001. Privacy rights have eroded over the years since, by the US Government claims to protect its citizens. From cameras, in inconspicuous places, wire-tapping, and monitoring e-mail, and social sites, these are just a few of the acts we are controlled under. Needless to say, we may never see these laws or acts diminish anytime soon, so it is better to adjust now, and band together before further intrusions are brought upon society. My assessment of the information taken from this report is that the privacy rights we hold as individuals within the country are vague, although most Americans seem to think their rights are guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution . Although under the 14th Amendment a certain amount of rights has been guaranteed, even these rights can be limited by the powers of the U.S. Government, especially during a time of war, or other emerging acts. When you look at the broad powers of war, emergency acts, and even the powers that exists of the U.S. Congress, we can assume any privacy we hold true is basically up to the representatives we elect to represent us. We as a people of the republic come together when there are disasters, and acts of terror, and differs on many policies of the day, but what we have as collected group is the power of vote, and this power is what we can use to help balance the power of our existing government. The research of this paper was conducted using various sites concerning a  combination of privacy of individual citizens, versus the introduction of laws enacted by the US Government, since the terror attack of 9/11/2001. Taking in all the information collected, and analyzed, this report has been intended to show the privacy each citizen held before and after the attack. It comprised what the public has perceived as a given right, over what was actually allowed by law. Conclusion The Claim: What privacy rights should an individual lose to protect against terrorists? It gives society a level of feeling safe by the protections in place. The public can only maintain a limit of safety by giving up a degree of privacy to governmental agencies in order to protect this basic need; and it is a trade off to give up a certain amount of privacy. On one hand individual privacy seems to be an inherent right thought of by the public as a Constitutional right. On the other, it is limited rights given by the 14th Amendment. Whatever rights we hold true today is the norm, yet not all true rights we bear are in real existence. What remedies in the political system in the privacy of individual privacies versus national security protections and concerns? The courts have narrowed away some of these concerns, but the bulk of the powers still exists. Even though Congress has been hesitant to amend the Patriot Act, in fear of being too intrusive, the powers to be are that it has the power to limit the society’s individual rights. Throughout the years rights have been in decline, and we wonder whether it will be because of terrorist acts, the U.S. Patriot Act, or the Homeland Security Act, it is something we all will have to get accustomed to. References (Anderson, 2012) Surveillance & Society, ISSN 1477-7487  © Surveillance Studies Network, Retrieved from http://library.queensu.ca/ojs/index.php/surveillance-and-society/article/view/cab_spy Bajaj, V. And Austen, I. (28 Sep 2010) B1 New York Times, Privacy vs. National Security: [Business/Financial Desk] http://search.proquest.com.proxy-library.ashford.edu/docview/755073818/fulltext/13AA4752BA6755D6A1B/1?accountid=32521 Darren W. Davis, Brian D. Silver, (12 DEC 2003) American Journal Of Political Science, Retrieved from http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.0092-5853.2004.00054.x/abstract Downing, B. M. (2008, August 26th) The Agonist Retrieved from http://agonist.org/national_security_versus_individual_privacy_no_line/ (Kandra et al., Jan 2002): 37-41PC World 20. 1National security vs. online privacy http://search.proquest.com.proxy-library.ashford.edu/docview/231422330/fulltext/13AA49614672EB98EE2/3?accountid=32521 Krishnamurthy, B. (Posted 11/01/01) Website. Markkula Center for Applied Ethics Retrieved from http://www.scu.edu/ethics/publications/briefings/privacy.html Linder, D. (2012). Exploring constitutional law. Informally published manuscript, educational, non-commercial site, umkc.edu, Kansas City, United States. Retrieved from http://law2.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ft rials/conlaw/home.html Miltrano, T. (January 1, 2003) Web Page title. EDUCAUSEREVIEW ONLINE Retrieved from http://www.educause.edu/ero/article/civil-privacy-and-national-security-legislation-three-dimensional-view Swire, Peter P. and Steinfeld, Lauren, Security and Privacy After September 11: The Health Care Example. Minnesota Law Review, Forthcoming. Available at SSRN: http://ssrn.com/abstract=347322 (Timan & Oudshoorn, 2012) Surveillance & Society, ISSN 1477-7487  © Surveillance Studies Network, 2012 Retrieved from http://library.queensu.ca/ojs/index.php/surveillance-and-society/article/view/mobiles Downing, (2008a) and (2008b) Krishnamurthy, (2001a), (2001b) and (2001c) Linder, (2012a) and (2012b)

Class Conflict in Pakistan Society Essay

Conflict theorie Conflict theories are perspectives in social science that emphasize the social, political, or material inequality of a social group, that critique the broad socio-political system, or that otherwise detract from structural functionalism and ideological conservativism. Conflict theories draw attention to power differentials, such as class conflict, and generally contrast historically dominant ideologies. It is therefore a macro level analysis of society. Karl Marx is the father of the social conflict theory, which is a component of the 4 paradigms of sociology. Certain conflict theories set out to highlight the ideological aspects inherent in traditional thought. Whilst many of these perspectives hold parallels, conflict theory does not refer to a unified school of thought, and should not be confused with, for instance, peace and conflict studies, or any other specific theory of social conflic Elite Class Def:- A group or class of persons or a member of such a group or class, enjoying superior intellectual, social, or economic status:- First, The fact is that the term and concept, ‘elite’, is misrepresented and misunderstood in this country. Intriguingly, those who are part of the elite themselves carry out most of the anti-elite commentary. In fact, castigating the elite at popular forums is a way to gain legitimacy that could lead to acquisition of greater power. While there is no doubt about the fact that Pakistan’s elite is irresponsible towards itself and the people, it was more interesting to see the gentleman refer to Asif Ali Zardari and Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Nawaz Shrif as part of the elite. Second, ‘elite’ is not a static concept but is forever evolving. What constituted elite yesterday may not be the same today or even tomorrow. Historically and popularly, the elite referred to the landed-feudal group because this was the dominant group in an agrarian economy like Pakistan’s. Later, as mentioned earlier, other groups were formed. The evolutionary process also meant that newer elite groups emerged almost every decade due to state patronage that replaced the traditional elite and the older ones merged into the newer formations. Third, the elite are not just a group, but also the name of a process that facilitates a constant cycle of change in a society. In case of a powerful, yet easily manipulated state like Pakistan, the process of elite formation is directly linked with the ability of a group to manipulate the state, its power and resources. This means that what may be the middle class or lower middle class of yesterday can be the elite of today. For instance, who could imagine a few decades ago that one day, people belonging to lower middle or middle class backgrounds, like Altaf Hussain, Qaim Ali Shah, Malik Riaz, Humayun Akhtar, Ijazul Haq, or Arsalan Iftikhar will be powerful millionaires and part of the elite. Middle class The middle class is a class of people in the middle of a societal hierarchy. In Weberian socio-economic terms, the middle class is the broad group of people in contemporary society who fall socio-economically between the working class and upper class. The common measures of what constitutes middle class vary significantly among cultures. As Dr Nayab postulates, to answer that question one first has to define what one means by middle class. She starts off by looking at standard economic definitions of what constitutes the middle class and applies a range of these definitions to the data to see how Pakistan fares. She uses 15 formulae, ranging from the definition of the middle class as those with 75 to 125% of the median income, to expenditure from $2 to $20 per person per day, to double the poverty line. Her results differ widely, ranging from a finding that there is no middle class in Pakistan, to the finding that 60% of the population can be defined as middle class. This composite index yields results that seem more intuitive. Dr Nayab found that in 2007/08, 41.9% of the population of Pakistan belonged to the â€Å"lower-lower class† or to be more blunt, the poor. This proportion rose to 55% when only rural areas were considered. Aspirants to â€Å"middle-classism† constituted 23% of the population, while â€Å"climbers† who are likely to get there constituted another 15% or so. The â€Å"hard-core† middle class remained small at 4.3% of the population. But Dr Nayab’s multiple classification of middle class makes more sense sociologically, as it seems more realistic to think of the middle class itself as a series of â€Å"layers.† lower class Working class (or lower class, labouring class, sometimes proletariat) is a term used in thesocial sciences and in ordinary conversation to describe those employed in lower tier jobs (as measured by skill, education and lower incomes), often extending to those in unemployment or otherwise possessing below-average incomes. Working classes are mainly found in industrializedeconomies and in urban areas of non-industrialized economies. Injustic Injustice is, the idea of not giving each person his or her fair due as a matter of right. Commonly Found Social Injustices †¢ A few commonly found social injustices in our society are: – 1. Unequal distribution of resources 2. Restricted access of common people to the quality education 3. Monopoly of rich class in the political system of the country 4. Lack of basic health facilities to poor5. Non availability of necessary commodities to major portion of the population Place of Women in Society/Gender Violence. With the erosion of social values, the place of women in our society has also been lost sight of. It is most regrettable that gender violence is a common norm of our social culture; more so in backward and less educated segments of our society. Marriage System. Owing to lack of education and following outdated traditions, the system of marriage in Pakistan is being run on the primitive terms of ignorance. Place of women in society makes her rather a scape-goat for any matrimonial affair. She does not have any liberty to make decisions for her life partner less to decide about others. Violation of Human Rights. Pakistan’s record of human rights does not make her qualify to stand high in the comity of civilized nations. Due to lack of education, poor social system and backwardness, violation of human rights is a common norm in Pakistan. And the worst affected of this are the women, children and the poor masses. Class Division of Society. Pakistani society is highly polarized and divided into various castes, classes, religious affinities and political affiliation. This makes it highly vulnerable to be exploited by the elements working against Pakistan. Intolerant Society. We are an intolerant society. This intolerance manifests itself in our social, religious and political activities. Our relationships are characterized by unthinking support. There is little sense of accommodation for rivals or competitors or those who belong to another sect, region or ethnic group, political crisis The political crisis in Pakistan threatens to trigger yet another period of instability in the country. The three-way power struggle between the military, the government and the courts once again exposes the weaknesses of the country’s democratic institutions, say German commentators. The political drama playing out in Pakistan this week took another twist Tuesday when the country’s high court ordered the arrest of Pakistani Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf on suspicions of corruption and nepotism. The suspicions have followed Ashraf for years, but the timing of the announcement now threatens to light a match on the country’s smoldering political crisis. Since Sunday self proclaimed revolutionary leader Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri has been leading a protest march calling for the ouster of Pakistani President Asif Ali Zadari. Qadri, a moderate clergyman who has denounced corruption among the political class, has seen a meteoric rise to popularity over the last months. On Tuesday, hundreds of thousands of demonstrators joined his protest and packed Islamabad’s streets. The court’s announcement came in the middle of Qadri’s speech on Tuesday and the crowd broke out in cheers at the news. On Wednesday, Qadri once again called for the end of the government. â€Å"If these thieves hadn’t ruled Pakistan, today every child in the country would have a smile on their face,† he shouted to his followers. Meanwhile the country’s normally meddlesome military has been strangely silent in the midst of chaos. That silence has led some observers to believe that the country’s generals are behind Qadri’s campaign. The turmoil comes just weeks before Pakistan’s government was set to complete its five year term, a milestone in a country that normally experiences volatile shifts of power. At the same time violence has been growing with extremists attacking the government and religious minorities.. THE PLANETARY CHALLENGE If an alternative future for Pakistan is not created, the pendulum will continue with collapse always being in the background. Moreover, in the world we now live in, a weakness or pathology in any part of the planetary system threatens us all. Pakistan’s futures are part of the planet’s futures – we all need to transform. Great Game. Pakistan remains a pawn, moved around for the strategic and ideological purposes of the great powers. Whether in proxy wars against the Russians or against 9/11 jihadis or whoever may be next, Pakistan’s capacity to influence its future is low or non-existent. At best, it can only rent out its military, or territory, for others’ battles. In this future (as in the current present), the rental receipts do not lead to even development –they merely enrich those getting the rent, generally the military. The national game becomes not how to transform the great game but how to get a piece of the action, legitimately or illegitimately. Those not part of the money game sing songs of grand conspiracies. These songs take away agency. While Pakistan has a dependency relationship with the rest of the world, citizens have a dependency – child/adult – relationship with the government, expecting it to solve each and every problem, without taking responsibility for their own actions and blaming the government when it fails. At the collective level, Pakistan remains rudderless, evoking the words of the founder, but unable to follow through with action. Economic Injustice A few weeks ago the news was published that the Punjabgovernment had allotted 4,000 yards (or more) for Rs1,000 per person to armygenerals, including Gen Pervez Musharraf. The given argument was that they got cheap land because the area was not developed. The history of this country reveals that undeveloped areas get developed quickly where generals and army officials get land. Are army personnel the only bureaucrats serving this country? What about other people who are working in civil bureaucratic institutions and private organizations? Do they also get so many benefits as do the army personnel?Economic Progress, Stability are key to Pakistan’s future Army interfering in Pakistani politics Many political parties claim that they do not want army to interfere in political issues and that army should be on borders doing its job. Recently there was a long march started by the lawyers and some political parties for the restoration of the deposed Chief justice. the protest became violent when the protesters started beating policemen. Later that night General Ashfaq pervaiz kiyani talked to Prime minister Yousuf raza gilani and asked him to restore the deposed chief justice immediately. After which the prime minister yousuf raza gilani took the decision to restore the deposed cheif justice in front of the people of Pakistan. The decision was welcomed by parties like plmn and pti.All these parties which in past claimed that army should not interfere in politics did not even said a word against General Kiyani pressurizing an elected prime minister instead they welcomed the decision. Source: http://www.defence.pk/forums/national-political-issues/23722-army-interfering-pakistani-politics.html#ixzz2IR33Mi2j

African American Woman In Aviation History Essay

African American Woman In Aviation History Essay In the early 20th century, it was virtually unheard of a woman especially an African -American woman in aviation. Flying was predominantly for white males (Creasman, 1997), and considered too dangerous for females. In an era of racism, and segregation Bessie Coleman born a poor, black girl with limited opportunities’ persevered. Bessie broke the barriers of stereotypical labels for race, gender, and class by becoming the first black woman to obtain a pilots license, the first person in the world to obtain a international pilots license, and the first American to achieve this (Malveaux,2000). Bessie Coleman is a â€Å"role model for young black children† (Creasman, 1997, para.23), influencing others to pursue their dreams. Bessie paved the road for others, never letting prejudices ‘of â€Å"race, class, and gender† keep her from pursuing her dreams which provoked the start of the civil rights era( Creasman, 1997). Despite the odds of being poor, black, and female Bessie Coleman made a huge impact in American history. Bessie Coleman was born in Atlanta, Texas in 1892 into an environment of poverty, repression, rage and fear (Rich, 1993). It was a era when blacks were disenfranchised and lynched (Rich, 1993). African-Americans were taught and treated like they were inferior to other races. Blacks could not vote, buy land, ride in the same train sections ,use the same bathrooms, restaurants, or use the same drinking fountains which whites used (Barnes, 1996). Those which protested ran a risk of being â€Å"tarred, feathered, whipped or lynched† (Barnes, 1996, para.4). The nation was suffering from a â€Å"severe economic depression† (Rich, 1993, para.14), and violence began to ignite in both â€Å"black and white communities† (Rich, 1993, para.14). Rich industrialists began to â€Å"create monopolies in trade and industry while laborers worked twelve-hour days, seven days a week. When the workers unionized and calle d strikes, the industrialists hired armed men as strike breakers† (Rich, 1993, para.14). In 1893 violence continued and panic among the financial sector caused stocks to drop . Soon banks folded, farmers lost their land, factories shut down, prices fell and unemployment increased (Rich, 1993). Bessie was the 12th of 13 children, the daughter of George and Susan Coleman. At the age of seven Bessies’ father, a nearly full-blooded Indian decided to move to Oklahoma closer to Indian territory. He believed he and his family would receive better treatment and receive the benefits of â€Å"full civil rights,† something the family did not experience in Texas because of racial discrimination. However, Susan refused to uproot the children and stayed behind (Yount, n.d.). Susan and the children lived in a â€Å"one room cabin,† and picked cotton to survive.Unable to make ends meet Susan took a job cleaning and cooking for a white family. It was important to Susan for the children to earn an education, so Bessie took on the role as a surrogate mother while Susan worked. Bessie did not have the life of a â€Å"carefree child†( Rich, 1993, para.34), instead she cleaned, ironed, cooked, and made sure her brothers and sisters were taken care of (Rich, 1993). Bessie and her siblings attended an all black school, but learning was limited because each time it was â€Å"cotton picking time† the school shut down. There were rarely textbooks, pencils or paper, and one teacher with a sixth grade education for grades one through eight in a single room building (Rich, 1993). However, Bessie was eager to learn, and had big dreams of â€Å"amounting to something† (Bessie Coleman, n.d.para.4). By age eight Coleman along with her siblings learned to read and write from reading the bible. Bessie enjoyed reading and often read books about black men and women which had made accomplishments in life ( Barnes, 1996, para. 12). Gifted in math, she kept track of the family book keeping for the cotton sold (Bessie Coleman, n.d.para.2).Bessie completed the eight grade which in those days was the highest grade individuals could achieve. In addition, Coleman was the top of her class, a very rare accomplishment at that time for black females (Smith, n.d.). This eagerness to learn prompted Bessie to attend college. Bessie took in laundry and saved enough money to attend college in Oklahoma but ran out of money after one semester and returned home.

Exponential and logarithmic functions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Exponential and logarithmic functions - Essay Example Another application of the exponential function is the compound interest formula (Sobel & Lerner, 1995, p.349). The compounded interest formula is utilized a lot by banks to calculate the amount of money a person earns in a savings account as well as interest charged to customers on loans. Appendix A shows a graphical illustration utilizing the exponential function. The logarithmic function is a function which its base is fixed and the number that is manipulated is the power or argument. The logarithmic function happens to be the inverse function of the exponential function. Graphically this function is a reflection an exponential function. There are different categories of logs such as the normal, natural and the log10 application. In chemistry logarithmic functions are utilized to calculate different concentration such as ph. In computer science logarithmic functions are utilized for to represent quantities of information. Appendix B illustrates a graphical illustration utilizing a logarithmic

Crisis in Public Relations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Crisis in Public Relations - Essay Example However, the design and findings is not as strong in the abstract because of the lack of detail, making the main point vague. Background The background is defined specifically with two crises’ that led to the investigation. This allows the reader to understand what the research is about and why it is important to portray. Creating this basis with the latest outbreaks makes it easier for the reader to understand the importance of communication during a crisis and why this is important to convey to the public. This is combined with statistics, referencing and case studies that create a clear and simplistic understanding of why the research study is important. Literature Review The literature review begins with theoretical implications that relate to communication and how this builds with a crisis. This then links to the case studies that are used in the background and leads into theoretical frameworks to imply the importance of crisis communication. The ideology is furthered wit h Coomb’s crisis response strategies and Hofstede’s cultural dimensions as well as media framing. The strength of this section is with using the theoretical framework as the main ideology for the case studies. ... The questions are defined with a narrow focus and with the understanding that this will link back to the theories and case studies previously mentioned. Even though these are strong and imply specific results, it is noted that the researcher has a stereotype from the case studies, specifically toward Asian nations. This is noted as the main hypothesis is examined based on the stereotypes constructed earlier. This creates too narrow of a viewpoint and doesn’t provide complete insight into the questions being asked. Method The definitions that are provided in the methodology are clear and have a structure that places a strong basis for the research. One is able to trace the different findings and understand the main methodology which is used to conduct the needed samples. This is furthered with creating a strong way of analyzing the results to retrieve the correct information while building a time line to gather information. While the researcher provides the strong definitions a nd basis, the methodology as a whole is not as strong. The resources chosen to use connects with includes both national and local papers for the US but only has national papers for Korea. This doesn’t allow a broad investigation of the results desired. There is also a lack of information in terms of where the information was coded for the newspapers and why the study was conducted this way. These gaps may have altered the findings and didn’t provide a strong methodology to retrieve complete results with the investigation. Data / Findings The findings that are listed are clear and easy to understand where one is able to understand the communication crisis difference. This is further defined

Research proposal Masters in Education Dissertation

Research proposal Masters in Education - Dissertation Example However in the same study, 82.4% students indicate that knowledge of subject is extremely important in classroom learning (Kavas & Kavas, 2008). Of course the means and techniques of instruction are important. Studies show that experimental techniques of instruction increase the overall student learning. Research reveals that when multiple experimental techniques are used, they improve the student learning even more (Lawrence O. Hamer, 2000). Now the question arouses that what other factors influence the classroom learning other then these conventional factors? A research conducted at a large public university in U.S reveals that non-native Teacher Assistants have a negative effect on the academic achievements of native students (Borjas, 2000). Marvasiti (2001) also conformed this hypothesis but Marvasiti indicates that this adverse effect is not due to lack of language proficiency. All of the above indicate that there are factors involved in classroom learning other than the academi c only. What I hypothesize from these findings is that there is a relationship between native perception of foreigners, in some cases â€Å"Racisms†, and the classroom learning regarding foreigners as instructors. ... uropean countries, where people from under developed countries are not perceived as above average, in some cases they are even considered to be equivalent to the labor class. In those countries, an instructor from an under developed country might have a negative effect on the classroom learning. Probably this is due to the resistance they have to bear at the start of making their career. What I propose in this study is to experiment with two different instructors, instructing same subject at two different places, one in home country and other in foreign country, and study the level of classroom learning affected by the origin of the instructor. For example, instructors form U.S instructing the same subject at U.S and Sri-Lanka, on the other hand an instructor from India instructing the same subject at India and United Kingdome. It would be ideal if we found the level of students same in both situations and where language of instruction makes no significant difference. In a nutshell w e will be investigating the relationship between instructor’s origin and the level of learning, keeping all other variables constant. If this hypothesis will proven to be correct, majority of people might get offended because the study indirectly highlights the racism present in different situations. It is rather important to state that there are some ethical consideration for this study. To achieve the objective of the study, data will be collected through observations, not all the data, but a major amount of data will have to be based on observations. It might be considered unethical to investigate such an issue without letting the subjects know. However the fact is that otherwise the objective of the study cannot be achieved. References Kavas, Aysel & Kavas, Alican (2008). An

In what ways do changes of administration in Washington affect Essay

In what ways do changes of administration in Washington affect continuity in US policy in the Asia-Pacific - Essay Example If the heads of state had come from similar parties it is easier to ensure continuity of policies. Otherwise, the chances of continuity are slim unless the next president is not one for party politics such as Obama’s case. So as to have a clearer view on how administration changes tend to affect continuity in the Asia-Pacific area, this essay henceforth aims to scrutinize the ways in which the change of political leaders may affect policy continuity. Administration changes can affect policies whenever party politics take precedence over continuity. It has been known that Democrats and Republicans have contrasting values. While the former espouses liberal views and political methods, the latter’s beliefs on and approach to policy debates is conservative and traditional. Party affiliation in the US has a â€Å"predominant influence† on the President and his administration. Jim Leach, former chairman of the US House of Representatives Subcommittee on Asian and Pacific Affairs, considers â€Å"the interplay between the Republican and Democratic parties and within each of these parties† as responsible for adding another coat of complexity to the US system and its policies in Asia-Pacific. For comparison’s sake, the Democratic administration of President Bill Clinton was markedly different from that of his successor Bush Jr. Though rocked with scandals irrelevant to policy-making (i.e. Monica Lewinsky affai r), there was at least a shortage of war. As Rozoff (2009) quipped in his write-up, â€Å"when Clinton lied no Americans died.† On one hand, the Bush Presidency had enough Republican policies on war to sacrifice thousands of American soldiers. The Democratic Policy Committee condemned such policies as â€Å"misguided† for having â€Å"severely tarnished Americas reputation in Iraq and around the world† and  undermined â€Å"U.S.-led reconstruction efforts†

Ethos Use by Jesse Ventura to Enhance Conspiracy Theory Thesis Proposal

Ethos Use by Jesse Ventura to Enhance Conspiracy Theory - Thesis Proposal Example The conspiracy theories captured in the series elicit a lot of mixed reactions and responses from different parties. It is in closely examining a specific part of one of the episodes that the rhetorical appeal of the series is revealed. Rhetorical appeals are also referred to as modes of persuasion. These devices in rhetoric classify the appeal of the speaker to his or her audience. However according to Aristotle in a clear sense persuasion is somewhat of a demonstration because human beings are persuaded to the greatest degree when a thing is considered as having been demonstrated. However, there are 3 kinds of styles of inducement furnished by the verbal word The first is ethos in which persuasion was achieved through the personal character of the speaker when he or she speaks in a manner to make the audience think him or her credible. On the other hand, persuasion may issue from or through the audience in instances where the speech was used to stir their emotions. This is what Aristotle labeled as pathos. Finally, Aristotle describes the kind of persuasion effected through the actual speech when an apparent truth or a truth has been proved using persuasive arguments that are enough to the case in question. This mode of persuasion is known as logos. Conspiracy Theory with Jesse Ventura is one kind of television series that leaves the audience torn between different versions of ‘truth'. The numerous, unique, as well as individualized conclusions people relation this and organizations, draw from his discussions and investigations.

Small Group Reading and Math Intervention Essay

Small Group Reading and Math Intervention - Essay Example Since each learner or group of learners is unique, it is important that intervention solutions that specifically meet the objectives and needs of each group of learners or each student are designed. It is only through meticulous program designing, planning, implementation, and teacher placement and training that a learning intervention may prove effective on at-risk learners, especially for technical subjects such as math (Angelillo, 2003). Additionally, sound intervention management, student assessments, and reporting are equally important in improving learners’ performances in math. This paper explores small-group reading as a method of assisting â€Å"at-risk† math learners in the 3-8 grades. Small Group Reading Intervention for Math Among the interventions for math preferred by quite a number of instructors are reading interventions, mathematics interventions, and Algebra readiness. In reading interventions, small groups are often formed to help learners who are str uggling to improve in their math to muster the necessary skills required for the subject. Consequently, math labs and/or the small groups are formed and used to build weak learners’ confidence in the fundamental concepts of math. ... The achievement gap between the weak learners and the general class is thus bridged as the additional instruction given to this special group above the core math teaching helps them obtain the lacking skills and confidence. Small group reading for math has been found to be particularly effective and beneficial for grades 3–8. Among the core elements of small group reading for math are flexible grouping, small-group reading sequence, appropriate texts, and teaching for understanding (Metsisto, 2001). Elements of Small Group Reading for Math To improve the performance and confidence of the â€Å"at-risk† group in a math class, small-group reading, which refers to an intervention in which instructors support, teach, and guide students on their math instructional level before, during, and after reading is always recommended. The first step in small-group reading for math is the assessment of learners’ instructional levels by instructors. There are several methods of carrying out such an assessment including teacher observation and constant evaluations such as unofficial reading records. By forming small flexible groups, instructors are better placed to match learners’ math needs and abilities with the most appropriate reading resources/materials and partners (Metsisto, 2001). Further, small reading groups assist teachers to observe each learner’s reading behaviors, model-specific reading behaviors and reading strategies. It is then recommended that each group should consist of between two and six learners with the same level of reading abilities, instructional level, and math abilities. The teacher’s role then becomes assisting math

Shoe Horn Essay Essay Example for Free

Shoe Horn Essay Essay The use of distinctively visual elements allows responders to interpret and create meaning from otherwise complex concepts. John Misto’s play ‘The Shoe Horn Sonata’ and Mike Subritzky’s poem ‘Sister’ both challenges the audience’s interpretation of the traumatic experiences of war. Through a range of distinctly visual techniques both composers help create an understanding of the power of time and the human spirit as overcoming adversity of war. As Misto’s The Shoe Horn Sonata develops, the distinctly visual stage positioning of Bridie and Sheila changes to demonstrate how the protagonists’ friendship strengthens over time. Initially Bridie and Sheila are seated at a distance for each other, demonstrating the need for them to reveal their stories as a way of overcoming the metaphorical barriers created by the war. Whilst this metaphorical barrier creates a tone of tension, during their reconciliation a contrast in characterisation occurs. The protagonists now hold hands and sit beside each other on stage. This contrasts creates a shift in tone from one of dissonance to one of hope and friendship. Misto’s use of juxtaposed distinctively visual stage positioning allows the audience to recognise that time has allowed the protagonists to resolve their relationship flaws, and therefore shows how their relationship has changed over time from one of incongruence to one of togetherness. Despite the growth in Bridie and Sheila’s relationship however distinctively visual projected imagery is used to portray that while time can help heal bad experiences, it cannot completely erase these memories. Through strategic stage positioning, Misto places Sheila beneath projected images of â€Å"Starving male prisoners† as â€Å"she does some of kind of needlework with great intensity†. By positioning such distinctive and confronting images above Sheila, Misto shows that even when doing simple tasks such as needlework, the memories of war will always remain at the fore of the protagonists’ minds. This positioning acts as a metaphor for the great impact of the war and the difficulty in erasing these memories. This helps responders understand the protagonist’s difficulties in connecting with each other and their world. Misto’s utilisation of the recurring motif of music demonstrates the poetic and admirable friendship and bond these women have created and the power this bond has had in helping them to overcome the atrocities of the war. Music imagery is also reflected in the plays title ‘Sonata’, which evokes connotations of dual courage, strength and faith, rising as one to overcome past atrocities. The ‘Sonata’ acts as a symbolic metaphor for both Bridie and Sheila, their friendship, and how that relationship has allowed them to overcome their past wartime experiences, whilst reconciling in the present. The use of such powerful and distinctive visual imagery therefore creates awareness of the atrocities of war and helps responders’ honour people who endured such atrocities. The power of the human spirit in times of war is also addressed in Mike Subritzky’s Poem Sister. Distinctively visual repetition and personification help responders understand the violence and bloodshed of the Vietnam War. Repetition of blood imagery in â€Å"Bloodied, broken bodies†¦Bloody combat gear’ alludes to the prevalence of death during the War, thereby allowing the responder to better understand the feelings of helplessness and misery faced by wounded soldiers. The strength of humanity is symbolised in the characterisation of the nurse who acts as the vehicle of hope to the dying soldiers. The nurse comes to be a visual symbol of courage and hope throughout the poem. When juxtaposed against the imagery of death and dying soldiers – â€Å"Young lives ebbed away† Subritzky creates a sense of hope for humanity in their most extreme hour. Furthermore, by hyperbolising the loss of hope in â€Å"I kept the faith when even hope was lost† th e nurse is depicted as being the guiding light and life force for soldiers close to death. By highlighting the humility and selflessness of the nurse, responders become aware of the strength of the human spirit in times of hardship and its ability to make easier very difficult situations. Much like the preceding texts Guo Jian’s painting ‘The day before I went away’ alludes to the atrocities of war, although does so in a satirical way. Through the use of distinctively visual heightened colour and flat surface painting technique, the smiling faced captures the attention of the responder to convey the illusion that the military is a joyful experience  created by Chinese propaganda. The juxtaposed characterisation between the glamorous singer in the foreground and grinning soldiers in the background who are set before a looming tank depicts that although propaganda had the initial feel of ‘inviting’ the reality of war is backgrounded and hidden. The salient feature of the image is the glamorous singer, who is toned lighter than the rest of the picture, creating a tone of innocence. She has an outstretched hand, grasping onto the responder of the poster and pulling them into the military. Through distinctively visual elements we as the r esponder become privy to the falsity of wartime propaganda. The illusion of soldiers happiness when serving their country is contrasted against the harsh reality of the dangers of war symbolised in the thank trapped within the brinks of the painting, as a symbol of their sound and government constraints from which they are unable to escape without falling into dishonour.

Analysis: Poem About My Rights, June Jordan

Analysis: Poem About My Rights, June Jordan Poem about My Rights This form of struggle and protest poetry, written by June Jordan (Poem about My Rights, 2015) truly captures and speaks for the voice of the oppressed and silent women in South Africa. When reading this poem, I was inspired and shaken by how powerful and moving it was, and how Jordan managed to get such a graphic and empowering message across through the reading of her poem. Her use of diction greatly emphasizes the harsh circumstances faced by woman, as well as Jordan’s anger towards the little political action and support against such abuse and neglect. The poem vulgarly refers to sexual violence experienced by woman and how they are victimized, harassed and abused by men who are physically and ‘socially’ stronger. Jordan speaks about rape, and how excuses are provided to the law, by the offender, which makes the rape seem okay and reasonable. This results in no justice taking place and the victim being left alone, feeling unsafe, with bursting anger and frustration – making them feel even more unwanted and like an outcast. This reveals the poor justice system; corrupt police work and fraudulent government systems – an entirely different theme in the poem. Clear evidence of racism is shown when Jordan says â€Å"We are the wrong people of the wrong skin on the wrong continent† (line 45 and 46). This expresses her view of how African Americans are made to feel like outcasts because of their skin colour and culture. Power, status, wealth and authority were determined by the colour of your skin, and many stereotypical views regarding racism are still present in the world. We can see through the line ‘I should have been lighter skinned’ (line 60) that being ‘white’ was the preferred skin colour, because it determined a family’s wealth and social status. The ‘wrong continent’ (line 46) in my view is referring to refugees that have moved and travelled across the world seeking job opportunities, better living conditions and housing because of the minimal resources and opportunities available in their own country because of their race. However this could make them seem like outcasts in the c ountry that they are not locally from, despite having as much of a right to belong there as another. Perhaps Jordan is looking at herself from a local Europeans perspective when she says â€Å"wrong people of the wrong skin on the wrong continent† (line 45 and 46) – as if to say these judgments and thoughts are going through their heads when they see a foreigner on their land. This clearly adds to the judgment and dis-belonging felt by Native Americans when moving countries, and how they themselves could start to see themselves this way and begin to blame themselves, causing self hate and pain. This occurs during the poem when Jordan blames herself for all the wrongs things that she is, and how she is a disappointment to her family and society. She speaks about how her parents are both disappointed with her and the way she is (line 58-67). However the poem does have an optimistic and unexpected ending when Jordan says that she will now defend herself, leaving the listeners/readers with a hopeful and encouraging ending. An important theme in this poem is gender inequality. In the past and still today, men are dominant to woman in many aspects including financial capability, decision-making, household-roles and various occupations. Men are generally earning more than women, and in many families and traditions, women stay at home for family duties, while men are the breadwinners. In the line ‘I should have been a boy because he wanted one/a boy’ (line 59) reveals two important aspects. One referring to ‘he’ – signifying the father of the child who is now a girl. Secondly referring to the stereotype and generalization which states that giving birth to a boy often promises the family more wealth and financial security in comparison to having a girl, and therefore boys were preferred and wanted. Stereotypically speaking, men have more authority and control in their families and generally make all the decisions regarding their child’s education and freedom – and we can see Jordan has personal experiences with this, through the harsh and cruel way she refers to it in her poem, and how there is no love, genuine care or concern that she expresses when referring to her parents. In the poem, the â€Å"wrong† elements and characteristics of June Jordan are constantly repeated. This is to emphasize the poet’s anger about her lack of acceptance that she feels not only by society but by her family. When listening to the poem we witness the harsh and judgmental comments and remarks made, for example â€Å"I am the history of the rejection of who I am† (line 78). Another example of where Jordan feels judged and unaccepted is when she says â€Å"it was my mother pleading plastic surgery for my nose and braces for my teeth† (line 6) a mother is supposed to be a woman who supports and loves their child for who they are, and not try to change them into what they aren’t. By Jordan using very visual and graphics words, it allows us to sympathize and even empathize for the way she has been treated and feels, making the audience connect with the poem on an even more personal and emotional level. From reading the entire poem several times and listening to Jordan’s reading of it, I get a sense of anger that Jordan expresses towards the people who â€Å"set things up like this† (line 21) – referring to the independence and self-restriction that Jordan feels. I believe that the people who set these things up would be society itself. Society set up racial prejudice, gender inequality, violence and abuse. Without the abuse of power of the people who have the control and the ability to make a true difference and positive change in this world, the world would be more controlled and at peace. Less crime, poverty, unemployment, violence and under-development would take place, resulting in a safer, happier place. When listening to the poem, I found that Jordan speaks clearly and uses pauses, creating a steady pace. Her tone in the beginning is not particularly aggressive or angry, however she does raise her voice to emphasize that she is upset and that the issues that she is talking about are personal. However as the poem progresses, so her voice becomes louder and more dominating, emphasizing particular words and phrases. This is particularly effective because the listeners now get a sense of how the poet feels about her own poem, adding a more personal and emotional touch. Her last few closing lines show her desperate cry out for independence and freedom. From my perspective I see it as Jordan’s determination to speak up for herself and finally take the will-power to stand up and defend herself against the negligence and abuse of others. I found this poem to be incredibly motivating and inspiring in terms of taking a stand against gender inequality and violence, and I believe Jordan should be remembered for her passion, bravery and courage for speaking out for the silenced and oppressed. Reference List: June Jordan Poem About My Rights, 13 November 2011 (video file). [Online]. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUSTxhYu7-4 [2015, April 20]. Poem about My Rights. 2015. [Online]. Available: http://www.poetryfoundation.org/poem/178526. [2015, April 20].

Nathaniel Hawthorne: No Ordinary Author Essay -- Biography Biographies

  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Romantic Period served as a breeding ground for some of America's most extraordinary authors.   Herman Melville, Walt Whitman, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and Ralph Waldo Emerson are just some of the names that graced this Golden Era of American literature.   Great as they were, these men still lacked a significant amount of originality.   Relating their themes and structures results in little to no variation.   One author, though born into the era of Romanticism dared to expand the possibilities nineteenth - century literature had to offer.   Through works such as "Young Goodman Brown," "The Minister's Black Veil," and "The Birthmark," Nathaniel Hawthorne incorporated Romanticism into his own style.   Including ordinary men, such as Mr. Hooper, Goodman Brown, and Aylmer helped to classify Hawthorne as a semi-Romantic author.   Other Romantic characteristics were found in his stories as well.   Symbolism, man's connection to nature, and t he supernatural are all also present in most of his tales.   But, most importantly, Hawthorne was remembered for breaking the rules and adding his own touch.   He told allegories and parables concerned about his concept of the "unpardonable sin," always including the character's trials from obsession to alienation to finally a loss of soul.   Careful review of his work probes the fact that fitting into a dictating society is not only boring but dangerously ordinary.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In Nathaniel Hawthorne's stories, like many Romantic stories, the characters are ordinary people with superstitious beliefs.   In "Young Goodman Brown," Goodman Brown is an everyday Salem citizen.   He faces many of the problems tackled by other New England Puritans.   He has a lapse in faith and is ... ...he rules is the best thing to do.   After all, no one remembers ordinary people.    Works Cited Bruckner, Sally. "The Scarlet Letter." Masterplots. Vol 10. Ed.    Frank N. Magill. Pasadena: Salem Press, 1966. 5849-51. Hawthorne, Nathaniel.   "The Birthmark."   Hawthorne's Short Stories.   Ed.   Newton Arvin.   New York: Alfred A. Knoph,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   1959.   177-93. ---.   "The Minister's Black Veil."   Adventures in American Literature.   Chicago:   Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Publishers,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   1989.   256-63. ---.   "Young Goodman Brown."   The Complete Novels and Selected   Ã‚   Tales of Nathaniel Hawthorne.   Ed.   Norman Holmes Pearson.      New York: Random House, Inc., 1937.   1033-42. Winters, Yvor. "Maule's Curse, or Hawthorne and the Problem of   Ã‚   Allegory." Hawthorne. Ed. A.N. Kaul. Englewood Cliffs, New    Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc., 1966. 11-24.    Nathaniel Hawthorne: No Ordinary Author Essay -- Biography Biographies   Ã‚  Ã‚   The Romantic Period served as a breeding ground for some of America's most extraordinary authors.   Herman Melville, Walt Whitman, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and Ralph Waldo Emerson are just some of the names that graced this Golden Era of American literature.   Great as they were, these men still lacked a significant amount of originality.   Relating their themes and structures results in little to no variation.   One author, though born into the era of Romanticism dared to expand the possibilities nineteenth - century literature had to offer.   Through works such as "Young Goodman Brown," "The Minister's Black Veil," and "The Birthmark," Nathaniel Hawthorne incorporated Romanticism into his own style.   Including ordinary men, such as Mr. Hooper, Goodman Brown, and Aylmer helped to classify Hawthorne as a semi-Romantic author.   Other Romantic characteristics were found in his stories as well.   Symbolism, man's connection to nature, and t he supernatural are all also present in most of his tales.   But, most importantly, Hawthorne was remembered for breaking the rules and adding his own touch.   He told allegories and parables concerned about his concept of the "unpardonable sin," always including the character's trials from obsession to alienation to finally a loss of soul.   Careful review of his work probes the fact that fitting into a dictating society is not only boring but dangerously ordinary.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In Nathaniel Hawthorne's stories, like many Romantic stories, the characters are ordinary people with superstitious beliefs.   In "Young Goodman Brown," Goodman Brown is an everyday Salem citizen.   He faces many of the problems tackled by other New England Puritans.   He has a lapse in faith and is ... ...he rules is the best thing to do.   After all, no one remembers ordinary people.    Works Cited Bruckner, Sally. "The Scarlet Letter." Masterplots. Vol 10. Ed.    Frank N. Magill. Pasadena: Salem Press, 1966. 5849-51. Hawthorne, Nathaniel.   "The Birthmark."   Hawthorne's Short Stories.   Ed.   Newton Arvin.   New York: Alfred A. Knoph,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   1959.   177-93. ---.   "The Minister's Black Veil."   Adventures in American Literature.   Chicago:   Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Publishers,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   1989.   256-63. ---.   "Young Goodman Brown."   The Complete Novels and Selected   Ã‚   Tales of Nathaniel Hawthorne.   Ed.   Norman Holmes Pearson.      New York: Random House, Inc., 1937.   1033-42. Winters, Yvor. "Maule's Curse, or Hawthorne and the Problem of   Ã‚   Allegory." Hawthorne. Ed. A.N. Kaul. Englewood Cliffs, New    Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc., 1966. 11-24.   

Argumentative Essay: Gun Control Violates the Second Amendment :: Constituton Bill Rights Right To Bear Arms

Few issues incite americans more than the issue of rising crime and violence. This problem can easily be linked to the availability of guns."The debate over whether guns are a hallowed tradition and a right guaranteed by the Second Ammendment of the U.S.constitution or whether they are a fearful danger contributing to crime and violence." ("gun control") Due to the outbreak of violence in our society, some people feel that repealing the Second Ammendment would solve the problem. These people feel that repealing the Second Ammendment would solve the problem. These people feel that there are two reasons for the repeal; One is the rising of violence among teenagers, the second reason is their interpertation of the Second Ammendment which could be considered a strict one. The side opposing these views use arguments like how it would be immpossible to repeal the Second Ammendment, and a long western civilizations history with a right to bear arms. Finally one can see the conflict of views dealing with the Second Ammenment, but one would also see that repealing the ammendment wouldn't solve the problem facing our society. The contriversy of this issue that has the potential to pulverise this country is why it is such a good topic to discuss, people should be better informed and make a decision based on fact and not fiction. Many advocates of the limitations of guns can quote numerous examples of increasing violence and homicide crimes. But the area which hits the closest to home is the issue of violence among the teenagers of our society. The years have changed on how students deal with their problems "Twenty-five or thirty years ago, when teenage boys got into a fight... it usually meant a fist fight. In more and more neighborhoods... it now means a shoot out" ("Gun Control"320). Violence like that is a major problem on our streets and even in our schools. Almost everywhere now "youngsters are packing weapons, Some are involved in drugs or gangs; others carry them for self-defense... One study says at least one in every three male juveniles is armed"(Muller 2). Now more than ever before an "increasing number of children under the age of 18 arrested each year for murder has jumped 55% in the past decade,... Juvenile arrests for aggravated assault are rising dramatically" (Henkoff 2). The results of this rising trend in violence has led to the release of a "center for disease center reports that since 1988, American teenage boys have been more likely to die from gunshot wounds than from... All other natural diseases" ("Gun Control" 83).

Prose and Style in Sons and Lovers :: Lawrence Sons and Lovers Essays

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   [1]And after such an evening they both were very still, having known the immensity of passion.   [2]They felt small, half afraid, childish, and wondering, like Adam and Eve when they lost their innocence and realized the magnificence of the power which drove them out of Paradise and across the great night and the great day of humanity.   [3]It was for each of them an initiation and a satisfaction.   [4]To know their own nothingness, to know the tremendous living flood which carried them always, gave them rest within themselves.   [5]If so great a magnificent power could overwhelm them, identify them all together with itself, so that they knew they were only grains in the tremendous heave that lifted every grass-blade it's little height, and every tree, and living thing, then why fret about themselves?   [6]They could let themselves be carried by life, and they felt a sort of peace each in the other.   [7]There was a verification which they had had together.   [8]Nothing could nullify it, nothing could take it away; it was almost their belief in life.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   [9]But Clara was not satisfied.   [10]Something great was there, she knew; something great enveloped her.   [11]But it did not keep her.   [12]In the morning it was not the same.   [13]They had known, but she could not keep the moment.   [14]She wanted it again; she wanted something permanent. [15]She had not realized fully.   [16]She thought it was he whom she wanted. [17]He was not safe to her.   [18]This that had been between them might never be again; he might leave her.   [19]She had not got him; she was not satisfied.   [20]She had been there, but she had not gripped the-the something-she knew not what-which she was mad to have. (336-337)      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This passage, from D.H. Lawrence's novel, Sons and Lovers, describes the thoughts of Paul Morel and Clara Dawes after they have spent an evening of passion together.   It is now that Paul and Clara realize that they are not able to fulfill each other's needs adequately.   Most of the sentences are complex, illustrating the complexity of the situation and the character's thoughts, yet the speech is simple and descriptive.   Lawrence's can be seen by   examining the diction, grammar, and the rhythm and sound devices.

Asian History: Review Essay

A. Describe the influence of Chinese culture on Heian Japan. In the Taika and Nara, Japanese peaked in their selective borrowing from Chinese culture. In 646, the Japanese tried to introduce the Taika Reforms, to change the imperial administration to resemble the Chinese(thought it had little effect in Heian Period).Previously, Japanese scholars tried mastering Chinese characters and wrote dynastic histories like those used by emperors in China. In the Heian period, Japanese consciousness grew and Chinese influence was reduced to a minimum. B. Describe Court Life during the Heian period Court Life during the Heian period is like the life of elites in America. Social status was most important, love affairs were common, and gossip was abundant. The members of imperial households and leading aristocratic families lived in a complex of palaces and gardens which the Japanese saw as most appealing. There were artificial lakes and fine gardens in every courtiers living quarters. Writing verse and poems were valued art types and were full of Japanese Classics and Chinese allusions. C. What led to the decline of imperial power within Japan? While the emperor was goofing off, aristocratic families were trying to run the imperial bureaucracy and create the most influence. One of them, the Fujiwara held quite a bit of influence over the imperial affairs, with many members of their family in the upper administration as well as increased marriage of Fujiwaras into the imperial family. All these aristocratic families whittled down imperial control and replaced it with their control. Buddhist monasteries tried to do rise in power as well, creating secret texts and ceremonies to bring cooperation between them and the court aristocrats. D. How did the rise of provincial warrior elites change Japanese Institutions? The rise of provincial warrior elites drastically changed Japanese institutions. As the imperial government gradually lost control, elite families created small fortresses where the Bushi, warrior leaders created a mini state inside. This created much crime and conflict, which in turn created a new warrior class, the samurai. The samurai lived by a code of family honor and death rather than defeat. All these factors created a feudal type order that replaced the weakened imperial administration. E. Describe social, political, and economical institutions during the Bafuku Age. The Bafuku Age was a military government that was established by the Minamoto after they defeated the Taira house. The leader of Minamoto after the victory was an unfit leader who weakened the Minamoto power. After a few equally bad successors, the Minamoto was dominated by the Hojo family who was content with allowing the Minamoto to be the face of the formal rulers. This created a three tiered system where the Hojo had real power, and manipulated the Minamoto who claimed to rule in the name of the emperor at Kyoto. In early 14th century the Minamoto tried to replace the Kamukura regime with their own regime, resulting in conflicts with the exiled emperor and the Minamoto. After this, civil and political strife was rampant and the collapse of centralized authority led to more conflict which ended with a division of Japan into many little kingdoms. F. To what extent did Vietnam and Korea accept and reject Chinese influences? The Koreans were able to resist Chinese control in the beginning, but after the fall of the Han and Koguryo, a wave of sinification began. Buddhism was the link between China and Korea and the Koreans adored the Buddhist art and buildings. Chinese writing and a unified law code like that of Han China was introduced. Universities were established so Korean youths could try learning the Confucian classics. The ruler tried to establish a Chinese style bureaucracy not unlike the Taika Reforms, but was rejected by the noble families and thus never happened. The Vietnamese put up more resistance than the Koreans because of their desire to hold onto their own identity and the fear of becoming part of China. They did trade with the Chinese but kept much of their own language and culture distinct. When Han China began to take over Vietnam, the elite of Vietnam allowed the agents of the Chinese regime to integrate Chinese culture into Vietnam. The usual sinification began that was not unlike Korea’s. There were sporadic revolts by Vietnamese aristocracy and ultimately frustrated the Chinese hope to assimilate their culture into the Vietnamese. G. Which classes and institutions were largely sinified in Korea and Vietnam? In Korea, the scholars and elites were mostly sinified. Although the peasantry did incorporate some parts of Buddhism into their lives, the elites and educated were mostly sinified; they made Chinese type bureaucracies and assimilating both the language and culture of Buddhism into their lives. In Vietnam, the lower class and higher class were more equally sinified than in Korea. The lower class adopted agricultural techniques to make Vietnam a heavy producer of agriculture. The Upper class took in political and military organization to help improve their fight against the neighboring countries. Schools were also built to educate the youth in Chinese scripts and made exams to qualify administration posts. H. How did Korea and Vietnam maintain political independence from China? Korea maintained political independence from China by the Koguryo resisting the invasion than seizing control when the Chinese control weakened. The warriors of Koguryo were heavily resistant to the Chinese conquerors at first, but were routed when the Tang allied with the Silla and demolished the Paekche and finally ended the Koguryo. The Silla however began to have conflicts with the Chinese that ended with the Chinese leaving peninsula and the Silla being a vassal of China. Vietnam had always been resistant to the Chinese even thought they were constantly attacked and finally conquered by them. Their struggle for independence was fierce and many uprisings occurred throughout the country. When political turmoil and nomadic attacks occurred in China, the Vietnamese tried to assert their independence. This didn’t fully work and in the end, a massive rebellion when the Tang fell made the Vietnamese fully independent. Vocabulary: A. Taika Reforms: Reforms instituted in 646 that aimed to completely change the imperial administration to resemble the Chinese absolutist style emperor B. Heian Period: A period where Buddhist monks became increasingly bold and powerful that a clever prelate almost married the empress. After this ordeal, the emperor fled to Heian, a new capital city and forbade any monasteries to be built in the city (Though the monasteries found a way around it). The Taika reforms were later abandoned and the aristocratic families were reinstated. Time when Chinese influence was reduced C. Kami: Nature spirits, Japanese word for divinity D. Bushi: Warrior leaders who controlled mini fortresses and built up their own army of samurai E. Samurai: Mounted troops loyal to the local lords and not to the court or aristocracy F. Seppuku: Ritual disembowelment, part of the death rather than defeat/capture G. Bakufu: Military government, literally meaning tent in Japanese H. Shogun: military leaders, like a mini emperor but not entirely I. Daimyos: Another way of saying Bushi but this was when Japan was divided into 300 small kingdoms J. â€Å"Gatekeepers†: Scholar gentry of Chinese civlization K. Sinification: Adoption of Chinese culture L. Tribute states: Separate states that recognize and give tribute to another state had conquered them M. Kowtow: Showing respect by bowing down to someone, originated in China Document Analysis: A. What ideas in the documents are: 1. Chinese?-The Chinese poetry mentioned that was exchanged in the first paragraph. The mention of a (most likely) Chinese tale of an emperor who had a wizard bring him a comb from his lost love. The painting of the Chinese Lady and the instrumentalist Chung Tzu-Chi are also Chinese ideas. The battle scene has Han and Chu type swords in them, both likely were swords from a period in China. The last paragraph has mention of one’s â€Å"filial† duty, something that most likely originated from the filial piety of China. 2. Buddhist (Indian)?-The Karma and debt mention in the first paragraph are Buddhist ideas. The abbot mentioned in the second to last paragraph is implied to be one of a Buddhist monastery. 3. Japanese?- The emperor concluded that the boy should be named either Minamoto or Genji, both Japanese clans. 4. Vietnamese?- The thought in the first document that the girl should not shirk her debt of grief to fate hints that she should remain strong, a Vietnam type development B. How are the documents similar? Different? The documents are similar in that they mention similar things. They show the influence of another country and of Buddhism. The changes brought by these influences are also shown. The documents are different in that the Tale of Genji has a female character which can suggest that females had more privileges in Japan. The Tale of Kieu shows more influence from many different states then in the Tale of Genji, which shows just one. C. What would account for the differences? The proximity with which the origin of the documents could have something to do with the influence it receives from neighboring states. Vietnam and Korea would show more influence from each other and China whereas Japan would have less because it is separated by ocean. D. How would you summarize the degree of Sinification of neighboring cultures? Korea received and kept a good amount of the culture of China. To this very day they have a similar culture and characters in writing. Vietnam did get some culture/technology from China but mostly rejected the idea. Japan received Chinese culture very well at first, but during the Heian Period, they rejected it. E. How have the Vietnamese and Japanese maintained their cultural identities? They resisted heavily against the Chinese and were able to keep their culture relatively untainted. After independence, they were able to nurture it with only a little bit of Chinese influence that was left over. Photo Essays: A. Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures are syncretic blends of foreign and indigenous cultural elements. Identify these elements in the above photos: 1. Chinese- The first photo in pg 286 shows the influence of Buddhism, which, though Indian, was transferred by China. The photo in pg 290 shows a painting in a Chinese style with buildings with ceiling most likely made with tiles, a Chinese development. In pg 291, the art style, like in pg 290, is a Chinese type style. The landscape painting in pg 298 is a Chinese style with a little excerpt in Chinese in the top left corner. The photo on the right shows a Chinese building type with a curved roof. The photos afterwards show little if not zero Chinese influence/cultural elements. 2. Buddhist- The photo in pg 286 shows a Buddhist temple and garden. In pg 290 there is evidence of a garden in the background, which is a Buddhist development. In pg 291 there is also evidence of a garden. In pg 298, the Golden Pavilion is built with a curved tile roof, showing a stress of the simplicity in Zen Buddhism. The photos afterward show no Buddhist cultural elements. 3. Indigenous elements-The many open hallways in pg 286 show a Japanese touch to a construction that is both Chinese and Buddhist. The painting in 290 and 291 show a Japanese element in the trees (indigenous to Japan) and the highly decorated style of dress. The pitcher in pg 301, shows a nearly uniform Korean culture, since neither Chinese nor Buddhist pottery looks like this. In pg 304, there is a painting of the samurai, something only found in Japan. B. Compare and contrast western European and Japanese feudal military societies. Japan and European feudalism had a set of values that embraced most of the people in the system. They also had highly militaristic and many times went through long centuries of warfare from the feudal loyalties and rivalries. Both had virtues or codes that their warriors lived by. Feudalism also left both with a lasting effect, where the warrior class would outlast feudalism and run rampant throughout the country. In Europe however, the feudal system was based on contracts with each other whereas in Japan they relied more heavily on group loyalties. Europe also had parliamentary institutions unlike Japan, who had less institutionalized group thought. C. Compare and contrast the religious architectures of the Christians, Shinto, Buddhists, and Muslims. What elements are universal and transcendental, and which are local, ethnic, or particular to an individual society? Shrines and temples were common in all of these religions. They were all used by worshippers and were uniformly sacred. Buddhists had more gardens and aesthetic qualities. Shinto stressed that there should be simplicity and had curved roofs made by tiles. Christians had large stone churches that were huge in comparison to the other type of architectures. Muslim architecture was huge but not as much as Christians.