The Byronic Hero Destiny and Russian Romanticism Essay Example

The Byronic Hero Destiny and Russian Romanticism Paper Irena Curic dr. sc. Janja Ciglar-Zanic, red. prof. English Romanticism 08 January 2013 The Byronic Hero and Russian Romanticism Introduction George Gordon Byron, 6th Baron Byron, or simply Lord Byron, was a British poet of Scottish descent who is today considered to be the most influential British poet of the Romantic period (Catherine B. ONeill calls him the best-known nineteenth-century British poet outside England).His adventourous character and wild but appealing works made him famous throughout Europe. He died in Greece during the countrys war of Independence and became a legend. He was only 36 when he died but his influence was massive. His works, mostly Childe Harolds Pilgrimage and Don Juan, but also Mazeppa, the Corsair and the Prisoner of Chillon were read among the intelectual elite of the whole Europe and many poets and intelectuals became inspired to write their own works in style of Byron.It was the idea of national identity, so popular in the 19th century, that Byron s upported during his life, and the fact that he wrote about the exotic lands and their pains under the tyranny of the oppressors that made him especially popular in moulding of the new nations and their identities in southern and eastern Europe (Hocutt: Byrons influence as individual and author seemed always to have greater impact outside of England than within his prudish homeland. While imitators and admirers of Byron the individual and author could be found throughout Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Turkey, and Russia, little more than harsh criticism for his works and exile for his lifestyle emanated from his sometimes beloved, sometimes criticized native Britain, even after his death. ). Apart from his political influence, he was just as appealing to the youth who saw his quests and deeds as an impetus to rebel. In the eyes of his time, Byron was primarily looked upon as an outlaw, an immoral man. He had an affair with his stepsister and was openly sceptic of religion and political institutions.His works were filled with descriptions of decandence and abomination. His demonic heroes with weak moral compass became iconic for the writers who would be influenced by Byron. Catherine B. ONeill wrote: Childe Harold took the world by storm because of many features that we now think of as characteristic of Romantic poetry: the subjective experience of the natural wor ld, the high degree of identification between the author and the hero, the motif of a journey that is simulatneously literal and psychological, and, primarily, the isolated heros mysterious disenchantment and heartache. We will write a custom essay sample on The Byronic Hero Destiny and Russian Romanticism specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The Byronic Hero Destiny and Russian Romanticism specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The Byronic Hero Destiny and Russian Romanticism specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The Byronic hero had become a specific literary type of hero who very much resembles the writer alone. It is usually a young male (although there are female examples) who is constantly bored and unsatisfied. His spleen drives him to a constant search for new sensations, which rarely give him pleasure. He prefers solitude to the company of others and feels much more connected to nature than to people: Now Harold finds himself at lenght alone, And bade to Christian tongues a long adieu; Now he adventurd on a shore unknown, Which all admire, but many dread to view:His breast was armd `gainst fate, his wants were few; Peril he sought not, but neer shrank to meet, The scene was savage, but the scene was new; This made the ceaseless toil of travel sweet, Beat back keen winters blast, and welcomd summers heat. He finds particular characteristics of savageness to be more truthfull than society of his day which he finds corrupt and dishonest: The royal vices of our age demand A keener weapon, and a mightier hand. He takes great pleasure in satirizing contemporary events and social currents: Prepare for rhyme-I`ll publish, right or wrong: Fools are my theme, let Satire be my song. It is no secret that Byron shaped his demonic hero on his own character and his own experiences. The real background of his poems makes his scenes and adventures seem more vivid and close to the reader. So it is no wonder that his straightforward style and his hatred of censorship met with such international adoration. Byron in Russia When Byrons works conquered Europe, his influence very quickly reached Russia where his works, especially Childe Harolds Pilgrimage, inspired two of the greatest Russian Romantic writers – Alexander Pushkin and Mikhail Lermontov. When his work came to Russia, it became an instant hit among Russian authors.Even the very young authors, who would later shape the Russian realism, like Turgenev, read and admired Byrons work. Daniel Hocutt writes that Most Russian writers viewed Byrons work in one of two ways: late sentimentalists admired his vivid and tender sensitivity; later Romantics emphasized their heros bleak colouring and rebellious passions . Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin was the first Russian author to publicly praise Byron and openly imitate his style. E ugene Onegin: the first Russian Byronic hero? Alexander Pushkin was the first authentic Russian Romantic poet and the leader of the National Romantic movement.He appreciated Byron and used the motive of the Byronic hero in his best known work Eugene Onegin. Pushkin imitated high Byronism in his narrative poems and lyrics written in Southern Russia between 1820 and 1824 Readers compared Pushkins and Byrons lives, focusing on sexual scandal, exile, and advocacy for Greek and other nationalist movements. Pushkin briefly encouraged such comparisons, announcing in 1822 that his new poem-in-progress, Eugene Onegin, was in spirit of Don Juan, but he quickly backtracked when his satire suffered from comparison to Byrons. Eugene Onegin, the protagonist of the work, is a young man who suffers from the typical Romantic boredom, the spleen. The work begins when Eugene grows bored of St. Petersburg (city, the very place of corruption) and wants to run away from his life there. He has even grown t ired of women and has given up his books. After death of his uncle, he goes away to the countryside. There he meets a young woman Tatyana who falls in love with him. However, being a cold Romantic outsider, Eugene politely turns her down only to fall in love with her in the end of the story.But then it is her turn to turn him down because she has a husband and does not want to compromise her pride and reputation. Although Pushkin tried to make his main character resemble a Byronic hero (Eugene even has a picture of Byron on his shelf), when he gave him the power to confess his feelings and change his nature, he moved away from the original, thus creating a specific type of a Russian Romantic hero: a hero with pretensions to change his miserable destiny. A true Byronic hero would carry on with his fate, without trying to change it and would most certainly continue running away from his emotions.Byronic Hero of our Time Mikhail Yuryevich Lermontov was killed in a gun duel, much like his predecessor Pushkin, at an early age of 27. It is interesting that they both had their main characters fight duels in their books. Of course, Onegin and Pechorin both managed to save their lives. Mikhail Lermontov had a much more complicated relationship with his British idol. First, he admitted resemblance to Byron in his poem Dont think me worthy of pity and then stated that he is not Byron but a true Russian poet in his poem No, Im not Byron:No, Im not Byron; I am, yet, Another choice for the sacred dole, Like him a persecuted soul, But only of the Russian set. I early start and end the whole, And will not win the future days; Like in an ocean, in my soul, A cargo of lost hopes stays. Who, oh, my ocean severe, Could read all secrets in your scroll? Wholl tell the people my idea? Im God or no one at all! However, he is the Russian author who managed to come the closest to the original idea of a Byronic hero through the character of Pechorin in his work Hero of our Time.Although he made a whole list of Byronic references, such as doctor Verner having a limp, or Princess Mary reading Byron among other authors, it is the protagonist, Grigory Alexandrovich Pechorin that captur es our imagination from the first page. He suffers from spleen, enjoys danger and seduction of beautiful women. He does not do it purely for the fun, which we can clearly see from his journal, but is afraid of commitment and therefore runs away from his feelings.He chooses to stay unhappy in order to keep his freedom: Id make any sacrifice but thistwenty times I can stake my life, even my honor, but my freedom Ill never sell. Why do I prize it so much? What do I find in it? What am I aiming at? What have I to expect from the future? Nothing, absolutely nothing. Its some innate fear, an inexplicable foreboding . . . Conclusion Russia of the early 19th century was a gloomy and turbulent place. It was a time of growing nationalist ideas and revolutionary thoughts, a time of lord Byrons literary influence. Byrons struggles and support for national and regional independence movements influenced Decembrists and other revolutionaries in the 1820s. One such revolutionary was Alexander Pushkin, most famous of the Russian Romantic poets, who was exiled to his mothers estate as a result of his involvement in and support of the 1825 uprising. Pushkins impact on Russian Romanticism cannot be minimized, particularly as it relates to Mikhail Lermontov, the last famous Russian Romantic writer. Voraciously reading Byrons poetry and prose in the original, in translation, and in loose interpretation, these Russian writers dedicated themselves for over a decade to write as Byron wrote and to live as Byron lived. Both Pushkin and Lermontov thoroughly read and enjoyed Byrons work and each of them by being a bit of Byronic her oes themselves, helped to shape a new type of a Russian Romantic hero.

Internet ; Society Essay Essay Example

Internet ; Society Essay Essay Example Internet ; Society Essay Essay Internet ; Society Essay Essay The universe is altering and many new engineerings are being developed continuously. Our day-to-day life is affected by these alterations. The alterations will go faster in future. Internet is one most of import consequence of altering engineerings. It has become a portion of our day-to-day life. Every new engineering has its ain effects. Some of them are positive and some may be negative. We should avoid the negative effects. Technology should be used in a positive mode. otherwise it will destruct us. Internet is an astonishing creative activity of the engineering. The whole universe is affected by it and all people are straight or indirectly related with it. Internet is highly helpful for legion individuals. Students take aid of cyberspace for their prep. Investors use cyberspace for the information about stocks. Sport fans watch mark and statistics. Internet has taken the topographic point of telecasting. Today cyberspace is same as the telecasting in 1940-50s. Internet is more utile and advantageous than telecasting. But it is non possible for every individual to utilize the cyberspace. Internet besides created an consequence on the print media and it is bit by bit replacing the print media because a magazine or newspaper can be published at a really low cost on the cyberspace. There is no demand of ink and paper on the cyberspace and fewer workers are required. That’s why print media is taking the advantage of cyberspace. Internet is the chief ground behind the revolution in society. Because of the cyberspace. communicating between the different states. societies. communities became possible. Before the cyberspace engineering there was no other communicating system being so huge to show the thoughts and the feelings. Through cyberspace informations. voice. and video communicating is possible. Largely people avoid talking to unknown individual. Internet has proved really utile for such sort of people. because they talk with people without demoing their age. expressions and category. Peoples find many friends through the cyberspace. Many public sites provide this installation. Peoples can derive many friends through these sites. Many immature people are gaining money with the aid of cyberspace by web designing. game building. working as a free-lance author. It means internet provides many chances for the people. Internet has shrunk the universe. Today each state is connected with another state with the aid of cyberspace. Peoples of one state or society are going familiar with the civilization of another state or society. With the aid of cyberspace the people who have knowledge got their place in the society. At present online shopping has become really popular. Peoples are purchasing merchandises from their place with the aid of the cyberspace. People buy merchandises at low cost from the cyberspace as comparison to market because companies can salvage money of stores and workers in on-line shopping. United province based company Amazon. com is the best illustration of online shopping company. Peoples can happen each and every thing at lower cost on this web site. In recent old ages some companies have allowed their employees to work at place with the aid of cyberspace because workplace has become really nerve-racking and the pollution besides increased in some last old ages. This is really advantageous because a individual can salvage money and clip by working from place. The Internet provides freedom of address. The people who don’t have bravery can convey their thoughts with the aid of cyberspace without any fright. With the aid of cyberspace now people are globally connected. A individual can pass on with the individual of other portion of the word at any clip through cyberspace. Now people are connected socially and professionally by the usage of cyberspace. Internet is really suited and low-cost medium of communicating. Today we can put an order merely by snaping a button. Now we can book hotels. flights and train tickets online. Internet made the communicating easy. Now we can pass on with the aid of electronic mail. picture conferencing. instant messaging. and Voice over Internet Proxy ( VoIP ) . Peoples can easy acquire information with the aid of cyberspace because there is a really immense database on the cyberspace related with each object. Peoples are happening occupations with the aid of cyberspace. We can subject many signifiers online. which saves clip. On cyberspace we can make up ones mind that which intelligence or information we want to read. Internet is besides playing an of import function in the field of amusement. We can play many games and work out mystifiers. Songs can be listened on-line and we can watch pictures on cyberspace. There are some bad effects besides. because of the cyberspace on the society. Pornography is a really bad consequence of the cyberspace. Sexual stuff is easy available on cyberspace and society is accepting this stuff without vacillation. Because of this involvement of the people in sex is increasing twenty-four hours by twenty-four hours. As a consequence. sex-related offenses are increasing continuously. Because of the cyberspace a batch of occupations have been lost. because a little figure of people are required to run a site. Because of the on-line shopping people do non go forth their place. This is a ground behind the many diseases such as fleshiness. Online shopping is non helpful for the local economic system because most of these on-line shopping sites are international. Internet is non ever dependable. because there is a hazard of interrupting the privateness. There is everything is in the signifier of binary information. On cyberspace we are dependent on others for our privateness. We can non certainly protect our information. With the aid of informations mining our information can be theft. Copyright job has become a great job now yearss. Identity of a individual can be theft with the aid of cyberspace. There are many other bad effects of the cyberspace such as meeting with the people whom you met online. giving personal information to a complete alien. giving incorrect information. A individual can be easy cheated by the cyberspace. Many terrorists are utilizing cyberspace engineering for communicating by utilizing a incorrect reference. Child erotica. recognition card frauds. espionage. on-line still hunt. snatchs are some other bad effects of the cyberspace on the society. Now it can be said that it depends on us how internet affects society. Internet can be proved really utile if we use it in a positive way. Many Torahs are made for forestalling internet offenses. but these offenses are still at that place. There is a demand of enforcement of these Torahs. Internet can be really utile for the society. It is the best medium of communicating and it can be said a good platform for showing your thoughts. There are a batch of alterations in the society because of the cyberspace. Internet enhanced the position of the life. Today information and instruction about the safe usage of computing machine has become really of import. There are many disadvantages of the cyberspace. but I think it has truly improved our lives. There is a demand of instruction and enforcement of the Torahs. Mentions Cole J. I. The Impact of the Internet on Our Social. Political and Economic Life. The UCCLA Center for communicating Policy. 2000. Cuizon. G. Internet Crime: How Does It Affect Our Society? . April 15. 2008. Retrieved February 24. 2009 from hypertext transfer protocol: //www. socyberty. com/Crime/Internet-Crime-How-Does-It-Affect-Our-Society. 109754 Nie. N. Study of societal Consequences of the Internet. Stanford Institute of the Quantitative Study of Society ( SIQSS ) . 2000. Professionals and cons of the Internet in today’s society. Retrieved February 24. 2009 from hypertext transfer protocol: //www. He. com/items/779510-pros-and-cons-of-the-internet-in-todays-society Purdy. R. The Internet- Boon or Detriment to Society? Retrieved February 24. 2009 from hypertext transfer protocol: //iml. jou. ufl. edu/projects/STUDENTS/Purdy/INDEX. HTM Rajani. M. K. A ; Chandio. M. S. Use of Internet and its effects on our Society. Retrieved February 24. 2009 from hypertext transfer protocol: //www. szabist. edu. pk/ncet2004/Docs/Session % 20VIII % 20Paper % 20No % 202 % 20 ( P % 20157-161 ) . pdf The Internet’s Effect on Society. November 19. 2001. Retrieved February 24. 2009 from hypertext transfer protocol: //www. bbc. co. uk/dna/h2g2/A650684

Reflection Memo Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Reflection Memo - Personal Statement Example Such a degree of usefulness has left internet usage among children and young people open to various abuses and problematic scenarios. That is because the digital world that comprises the internet remains largely unsupervised by parents and teachers. Thus exposing children to certain dangers on the world wide web that could be avoided with proper guidance from parental and authority figures in the childs life. Using various methods of research and survey that include the qualitative and quantitative research methods, I came across fact based information and numerical data that supported my thesis that although the internet can act as an all around teacher and baby sitter, it also places the innocence of a child in danger because of the predators and bullies that lurk within the system. Children and young adults are not always equipped to handle such situations which can bring about emotional trauma and moral questions from the young users. Therefore the age bracket of these users require My field work and studies have shown that parents and educators are aware of the problems that exist when young people have internet access. As such, they have come up with ways and means to limit the childs exposure to the internet. Parents have done this by limiting the chillds time on the computer and restricting the browsing habits of the child through the use of specific site blocking software which is loaded into the computer. Some parents though, opt to join their children when they browse the internet instead so that they can visually see and personally restict the access of the child. Such a practice also allowed the parent to talk to the child about why certain websites are offensive. Thankfully, most educators and parents whom approached for my data gathering were quite accomodating and helpful thus making my field work and data collection easier and more accurate. In the end, I discovered that the parents and educators have only limited

Evaluation of Routing Protocols Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Evaluation of Routing Protocols - Essay Example Evaluation of Routing Protocols There are many routing protocols available as they define ‘what a router will do and decided for a specific data packet’. There are two types of routing fundamentals on which these protocols are based, named as Static Routing and Dynamic Routing. The following sections contains advantages and disadvantages of each routing protocol specified along with its administrative distance, metrics, periodic updates, triggered updates, partial updates, VSLM / CIDR subnet masking and algorithms. As per network dictionary it is defined as â€Å"Routing Information Protocol (RIP) is a standard for exchange of routing information among gateways and hosts. This protocol is most useful as an â€Å"interior gateway protocol†. It is also knows as Interior Gateway Protocol (IGP). Frame Relay protocol is implemented for WAN networks associated with LAN internetworking. It functions on physical layer and data link layer of the OSI model, to endow with robust and efficient mechanism for transmitting data. The transmission encompasses multiple routers and switches. Moreover, this protocol is identical to X.25 protocol that activates stations located at the end to share dynamically the network and bandwidth available. Two techniques are associated with Frame relay: As it is based on packet switching, the two techniques are Variable length Packet technique and statistical multiplexing. However, frame relay

American Apparel Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

American Apparel - Research Paper Example American Apparel Major companies, including American Apparel, have come to rely on the sex concept in selling their products to the American public, especially the youth. By incorporating provocative sexual images, their ads, are able to attract young women and men. The company’s chief executive contends that American Apparel’s goal has always been to create a heritage brand for the American public, especially the American pursuit for happiness, property, and liberty. They have been lauded for their ad’s realism since most of their ad subjects are portrayed with their asymmetrical features, imperfections, and blemishes that are attached and highlighted with personal and brief descriptions about them (Welters & Lillethun 65). American Apparel, in addition, rather than outsource their model recruitment, recruits its own ad models from the organization’s stores, on the street, or from photos sent directly to the company’s headquarters via the website. At some point in the past, American Apparel sought to pursue a strategy that dwelt on how the company treated its workers in order to sell the company brand and merchandise, promoting its products as being free of sweatshop activities. The company has also engaged in politically-charged advertisements, such as their anti-immigration laws campaign that referred to current laws as an American variation of apartheid alongside their company logo in 2008 (Welters & Lillethun 66).

Planning Theory in City Development

Planning Theory in City Development Abstract This paper examines the theories of rational planning, incremental planning, and planning as a political process. It compares these three influences of planning specifically to town planning. Furthermore, the importance of rational planning, incremental planning, and planning as a political process will be highlighted in the examination of a case study of the ADA Light Rail Planning Project. Conclusions will be made as to the role these theories, in combination with politics, play in city planning. Introduction Theory is a foundational part of knowledge because it describes how a particular field has been established and has evolved over time. Theory has been defined as a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world; an organized system of accepted knowledge that applies in a variety of circumstances to explain a specific set of phenomena (Wordnet, 2009). Based on this and other definitions, theory can be seen as a big umbrella that includes concepts, propositions, causes, explanations, definitions, and values. Theories have been presented in regards to planning. These theories have been offered for planners to use as references. They provide guidelines for ways in which to go about planning and are used by many planners including town planners. Each planner holds a different view on the planning theories which have already been presented, and adjustments or suggestions are always made to well-known theories. Arguments are constantly being made as to which theory is better, and what theory is best used for town planning. Every planning agency is different and may use different theories to back up their ways of doing business. Study Purpose In this study, the theories of rational planning, incremental planning, and planning as a political process will be presented, especially in regards to city planning. These theories will be compared to each other and their significance to the ADA Light Rail Planning Project will be examined. It will be argued that the Light Rail Planning Project was, initially, a rational planning process but took a turn to incremental planning with the influence of politicization. It will also be argued that rational planning and incremental planning are insufficient in themselves as methods to fully approach town planning as politicization plays a larger role. Results Rational Planning Theory Rational planning theory was first conceptualized as a specific form of planning in the Chicago School in the 1940s and 1950s. This was a program offered at the University of Chicago that came about after the Great Depression and WWII with the aim to better plan the economy. This program, which lasted only nine years, was enormously influential in setting the direction of planning theory. Rational planning was introduced to city planning in the 1960s. The incorporation into town planning came about due to a transition in thought: Town development was now regarded as a science rather than an art (Allmendinger, 2009). Despite its critics, rational planning has remained the most widely used planning theory for approximately 50 years. It remains a major foundation of planning school curricula, and has spawned the primary language planners use in methodological discussion (Baum, 1996; Dalton, 1986). Rational planning is a procedural theory that focuses on the process of planning rather than on an object or end goal (Faludi, 1973). According to Nigel Taylor, the author of Urban Planning Theory Since 1945, rational planning is the best method, or process, of doing planning, (1998, p. 66) He goes on to say that a rational decision is one that has persuasive reasoning (reasons can be persuasive if they are based on factual knowledge e.g., the knowledge has been gained based on a valid study). He argues that not every reason is persuasive; however, rational planning is designed to produce reasons that are persuasive. Taylor presented the fact that reasons can sometimes be persuasive for one group and not another. If reasons are persuasive based on individual values or group values, they are not necessarily persuasive in terms of science or for an entire community. This draws the conclusion that rational planning does not provide straight-forward formulaic answers to any given questio n. However, the rational process of planning does try to achieve unbiased, persuasive reasoning for any given problem (Taylor, 1998). Since societies are made up of many people and all with different views, it is logical to think that decisions affecting large groups of people should be unbiased. Therefore, according to Karl Mannheim, a planner reflecting the ideals of social historian and economist Max Weber, planning should be objective (Allmendinger, 2009). This can be achieved by thinking rationally and focusing on the best method for reaching a decision. Rationalists are seen as those who have logical reasons for their views or decisions based on facts rather than emotions or values (ibid). It only makes sense that if decision-makers seek a rational decision they should follow a process that is rational. To successfully achieve rational planning, there are steps that must be followed (Taylor, 1998). First off, a problem must be defined. Second, there needs to be identification of alternative options to solve this problem. Third, there must be detailed evaluation of each alternative. The fourth step is to implement the best alternative, and the fifth step is to monitor the effects of the chosen alternative. Rational planning does not end with the fifth step. Rational planning takes into consideration new problems arising or the fact that the initial problem or goal was not actually reached with the pre-determined best alternative. Therefore, rational planning may loop back to any step at any time as it is a continuous process (ibid). Rational planning is systematic by nature. Just as rational planning does not have any criteria for concluding whether reasoning is persuasive or not in terms of the whole, the theory of rational planning is not perfect in regards to city planning. Rational planning was designed as a scientific way to approach planning (Faludi, 1973). The problem is that city planning is not a natural science. Town planning is a social problem; social issues are never solved but only resolved time and time again. There isnt an exact formula to answer the problems of town planning. Furthermore, social problems have no clear-cut indication of when adequate understanding has been reached since understanding for a social problem has no exact scientific criteria to be judged by. This indicates that town planners can always try to do better, as there is no clear-cut stopping point for any planning process (Rittel Webber, 1973, p.8). Rational vs. Disjointed-incrementalist Planning Charles Lindblom, a well-known critic of rational planning theory, disagrees with radical decision-making and believes that any decision made should be closely related to the policies that are currently in place. He proposed a theory of planning referred to as disjointed-incrementalism. Lindblom argues that disjointed-incremental planning is best for real-world situations (Allmendinger, 2009). He proposed some simple steps for incremental planning: Limit the analysis of alternatives to a few familiar options, focus on the problems rather than end-goals, and learn through trial and error (ibid). Lindblom wants to keep planning and implementation simple: An easy goal is established, and the alternatives considered are based on past experiences and values (Lindblom, 1959). Lindblom has one major criticism of rational planning. According to Lindblom, planning cannot be rational if it is not comprehensive, and planning cannot be comprehensive because planners lack the ability to fully absorb all information related to the process (Lindblom, 1959). At first, many may agree that if rational planning is not fully comprehensive then it cannot be rational. However, Nigel Taylor offers an example to argue differently. He depicts a story of a man with a gun at his head. This situation does not allow ample time to consider all options and therefore cannot be comprehensive. Yet, the man quickly goes over all options readily available to him and makes the best decision he can with that knowledge. Under the circumstances, that decision is still considered rational (1998). A rational decision can be made after considering all alternatives available to the planner at the time (Banfield Meyerson, 1955 cited by Allmendinger, 2009). What is learned from this is that a plan or a process can be rational without being comprehensive. Faludi (1973) also offers criticism of Lindbloms theory. He criticizes the fact that incrementalism only offers limited alternatives for any given issue. Faludi says that incrementalism goes against making rational choices that affect a large number of people such as a community. He also disapproves of the fact that Lindblom proposes to make plans that are satisfying to one group of people that have the most influence in the community whether or not they are the majority (ibid). Like rational planning, incrementalism still poses problems in relation to city planning. A key aspect to incrementalism is learning through trial and error. However, in town planning, there isnt an easy way to learn through trial-and-error. Its not easy to implement a highway and then take it out if it proves to be an insufficient response to the issue. Furthermore, if putting in a highway was the chosen alternative for an issue, and it did not resolve that issue, a new complication is created (Rittel Webber, 1973). Each and every public policy is unique in and of itself. It may be possible to take other towns and policies for example, but each problem will be different; therefore, each implementation will result in a different scenario. What works for one town may not work for another. It seems as if this trial-and-error suggestion does not entirely work for city planning; thus, the theory of incrementalism does not fully encompass all issues related to town planning. There is a link between rational planning and incremental planning. Faludi proposes that planning is usually somewhere between disjointed-incrementalist and rational-comprehensive. Planning agencies move more towards rational comprehensiveness but of course can never be fully comprehensive, only rational at best. Therefore the plan is somewhat still incremental and lies between the two extremes (Faludi, 1973). Like the man with a gun at his head, in some situations it is rational to quickly go over alternatives to any issue. At times, this may even be disjointed or incremental. Therefore, the suggestion that rational planning and incremental planning are completely different theories of planning is not entirely accurate. It is possible to have a combination of both theories in one plan (Taylor, 1998). Rational and Incremental Planning vs. Planning as a Political Process Thus far, city planning has been analyzed in comparison to the theories of rational planning and incrementalism. It seems these two theories lack a huge component for town planning: Politicization. However, city planning being considered political is not new (Taylor, 1998). The main problem with the rational planning theory in regards to town planning is the disregard in reference to politicization (ibid). Incrementalists acknowledge some of the roles politics play in city planning, but it seems as if their views are a little nave when it comes to the balance of power affecting this (Allmendinger, 2009). When it comes to town planning, decision-making is affected more by the power of politics rather than by rationality or even incrementalism. This is largely to do with the amount of people city planning affects and the different values or interests these people have. [S]ince town planning action can significantly affect the lives of large numbers of people, and since different individuals and groups may hold different views about how the environment should be planned, based on different values and interests, it is therefore also a political activity. The planning theorists in the 1960s who saw planning as a science therefore misconceived the very activity they were seeking to describe (Taylor, 1998, p. 83). It is not only the number of people affected but the power of certain groups and their political influence which plays into the decisions made, especially in city planning. Norton Long, an American planning theorist, words it quite well: The question is not whether planning will reflect politics but whose politics it will reflect. What values and whose values will planners seek to implement?[P]lans are in reality political programs. In the broadest sense they represent political philosophies, ways of implementing differing conceptions of the good life. (1959, p.168). Charles Hoch, an experienced author on the subject of planning theory, agrees with this. He says that the complexity of city planning is due to the social and environmental factors and is greatly determined by the players involved. Hoch says that the players motives always change, and that further complicates the politics of city planning (2009). In fact, public policy is hardly ever implemented due to planning authority alone; it relies on other actors to support the decision as well. Of course, these actors dont always hold the same position as the planners or policy-makers (Pressman Wildavsky, 1973 cited by Taylor, 1998). Therefore, the assumption can be made that social problems like city planning are political in nature, not scientific (Taylor, 1998). Rational planning and incremental planning are inadequate in themselves to successfully complete a town planning project all the way through implementation. They are hindered by political influence as well as ethical issues (Guba Lincoln, 1989 cited by Hostovsky, 2005). Using rational planning for public policy creates deceptive expectations for what knowledge is really required to turn those plans into action; it doesnt recognize politicization, the largest factor in implementation (Hoch, 2009). However, incrementalists hold belief in pluralism: The power of putting initiatives into motion does not necessarily come from the person in the highest ranking position but rather it is affected by groups who hold special interest and power (Merelman, 2004). They do acknowledge some of the roles politics play in planning. They realize that government doesnt necessarily mean those directly in position but rather government is a collection of groups that have their own special interests (Faludi, 1973). It seems as if incrementalism is a step closer to embracing the full scope of city planning than rational planning due to this acknowledgement. With politicization playing such a large role in town planning, theorists have suggested that planners stop being completely objective and become more involved with the entire process (Long, 1959). Planners should be technical in the formulation of plans, but should be advocates for the alternative deemed as the best option. City planning calls for debate of many social and political issues and should be kept in view of the public (Davidoff Reiner, 1962 cited by Taylor, 1998). Taylor says that in order for a plan to be effectively implemented, planners need to identify lead actors that play a role in the implementation and persuade them to fulfill the objectives of the planning authority (1998). It seems planners can no longer rest in the assurance that their plan was carefully carried out. They now have to worry about other contributing factors outside of planning to ensure implementation. Rational planners and decision-makers hope that their government will do what is in the best interest of the community (Faludi, 1973), but that is not always the case. In comparison, it seems that incrementalists realize their plans wont be implemented if they dont have the support of actors who have strong political power, so they gear their plans towards pleasing these players. They are not advocates for a plan they think is best, but rather they try to make their plans to please those in power. This leads to the issue of what political involvement should imply. In a society, especially a democratic one, something of political nature should imply the participation of the public (Taylor, 1998). It makes sense that those most affected by any town plan should have a say in the decision-making. Based on these three aspects of planning theory, it seems that city planning should aim to be somewhere between incremental and rational while considering input from the public and keeping their best interest in mind. Planning should be objective and unbiased but keep in mind the limitations that plans may face at the implementation phase in regards to politicization and special interest groups that hold lots of power (ibid). If a plan goes against the desires of those in power, planners should be advocates for what they think is best for the community while keeping in mind that they cant impose their ideas of what is right or wrong (ibid.). Planning Theory Applied to Case Study Alrriyadh Development Authority Project Background In the summer of 2002, a team was selected by the Transportation Planning Unit at Alrriyadh Development Authority (ADA) to work on a project to find the best solution to resolving the congestion problem in Riyadh (I was part of this team). The traffic congestion posed destruction of Riyadhs living system. Riyadh is the capital city of Saudi Arabia and has over 5 million residents. It doubles in size every ten years and is the fastest growing capital worldwide. It is forecasted there would be 15 million car trips a day by 2021 in Riyadh (City without Limits, 2002). After examining alternatives, which will be elaborated on below, the planning authority dubbed the project: Light Rail Planning Project. The following is an examination of the Light Rail Project in reference to rational and incremental planning as well as planning as a political process. The Planning Theory of the Light Rail Planning Project The ADA relies on rational planning for the majority of its projects. In reference to the Light Rail Planning Project, the ADA made sure the team was fully knowledgeable in rational planning. This was accomplished by bringing a professor of technical planning from Berkeley, California to give training workshops for five months. This allowed the members to be knowledgeable in rational planning in direct regards to city planning. It seems as if the ADA followed the rational process of planning in the first few steps of planning. They first identified the problem, which was the congestion of Saudi Arabias capital city, Riyadh. Following the identification of the problem, the team came up with alternatives to the problem. The alternatives considered were widening some main roads, creating an effective public transportation system with buses, and installing a light rail system. These are not all options that could have been considered, but they were pre-determined to be the best alternatives collectively. This form of rational planning is not comprehensive but still seems to be rational as it made use of the best available options available to them (Banfield Meyerson, 1955 cited by Allmendinger, 2009). This step also seems to be incremental as there were only a few alternatives chosen. However, the alternative for the light rail system was not closely related to the current system, and therefore seems to be bas ed on more rational thought than incremental as Lindblom (1959) would not suggest an alternative that required much deviation from the current system. In reference to these issues, it seems that this step was somewhere between rational and incremental as Faludi (1973) pointed out most plans are. The third step in the rational planning process is to evaluate alternatives against each other. To make sure this and the following steps were accurate, multiple resources were used including inviting an expert from GTZ, a big consultation company in Germany, to help with developing alternatives and analyzing them. The team was also sent to Berkeley, University of California to spend five months learning technical skills, information analysis and how to make alternative planning evaluations. Using the skills learned from Berkely and GTZ, alternatives were evaluated in detail. Planners went to the residents of Riyadh and asked if they would use the new alternatives. In fact, this is the first planning project in Riyadh that included input from women. This input was of major importance as the women in Riyadh make up the majority of the population. In regards to the light rail system, if women would not use it then it would surely fail. In the end, the women reported that they would use the light rail system if it was implemented. After many more studies and evaluation, the light rail system turned out to be the best alternative environmentally, socially, and economically. This showed the light rail system to be the best alternative by far as there were only those three categories to be weighed. In the evaluation step of ADAs traffic congestion project, it seems that the process of rational planning was completed. Then again, evaluating alternatives is also suggested as part of incremental planning, so this step shares a little of each theory. However, this phase proved to be more comprehensive than any other step. In considering each alternative, it seems that the ADA planners made every effort in evaluating every aspect. They even interviewed women, which had never before been done in Riyadh. On the other hand, this step did not take into consideration any political views that would influence the implementation of the chosen alternative. To be truly comprehensive, all views would have to be taken into consideration as part of fully understanding the issue. Nevertheless, planning theorists have constantly pointed out the rational planners lack of consideration towards politicization. Consequently, it seems that this step of planning was somewhere in between rational-compreh ensive and incremental. Strictly incremental planning would have acknowledged political actors in the implementation of the light rail system and probably would have not considered that option from the beginning. Hypothetically, if it had, it would have been eliminated after considering the desires of the groups in power of the city of Riyadh. Before the fourth step, implementation of the light rail system, was undertaken, the planning team was sent to various workshops with road authorities, engineers, and city planners from all over the world. They were taught operation management, maintenance, and how to run a light rail system in these workshops. They were also sent to a total of eight cities and spent two weeks in each city in order to evaluate their light rail systems. These cities were Stockholm, Sweden; Toronto, Canada; Tokyo, Japan; Los Angeles, California; New York City, New York; Paris, France; Berlin, Germany; and Sydney, Australia. Various observations were made in each city, such as Sweden had a very organized and well-planned light rail system, and Tokyo had amazing light rail management. All considerations were taken into account as they prepared the proposal to the CEO of ADA. They had plans to implement and follow through with evaluation afterwards. With all the planning and extensive research that went into the Alrriyadh Development Authoritys project of the light rail system, it is clear that a rational process of planning was being attempted. The team had planned to complete the five steps of rational planning from the beginning of the project. The first three steps were followed to the best of their abilities, although there is a combination of rational and incremental planning. The planning was objective due to the fact that it would affect a large group of people as suggested by Karl Mannheim (the planners even sought advice from women) (Taylor, 1998). It was procedural as Faludi (1973) says planning should be (following pre-determined steps for each phase of planning), and it produced persuasive reasons as they were based on a valid study as suggested by Nigel Taylor (experts allowed the team to conduct valid studies) (1998). When the team presented their findings to the CEO of ADA, he told them to stop the planning after already completing seven years of the process. He admitted to them that he was convinced that the light rail system was the best solution. However, he said there was something behind the scenes that played a part. The CEO proposed to widen some main roads, which he claimed was an incremental approach to planning. Widening the roads is a more incremental approach in this situation and seems to be less rational as the facts from the study were mostly ignored. This alternative also appears incremental as the CEO suggests there is influence behind the scenes that has contributed to his decision. There is the suggestion that politics influenced the CEOs ultimate decision to widen the road. Speculations can be made that the CEO was afraid to lose his job if the project failed at the cost of $9billion when the council of ministers were the ones allocating the money for the project. He may have been concerned that the council would disprove of his decision. There is also the assumption that the CEO was under pressure from the religious leaders in Riyadh who did not agree with mixing men and women, which would happen with the completion of the light rail system. Furthermore, it seems likely that the CEO was influenced by the oil companies as they would not want people to stop driving cars at the risk of oil prices dropping. All of these reasons involve powerful parties that hold political interest in public policy. These groups have tremendous influence in Riyadh, and it is speculated that their influence contributed to the incremental switch in planning during the Light Rail Planning Project. After the CEO made his decision to widen the roads, the team members became upset. They realized that there was political influence involved. They very strongly wanted the light rail system implemented as they worked seven years on rational planning to make sure it was the best alternative. At this point, some of the team members decided to take some action to persuade the CEO that implementing the light rail system would be the best alternative. They became advocates for their cause as some theorists suggest planners should do (Long, 1959). With some convincing, the CEO agreed to leave space for the light rail system and reconsider it in 2020. This step was much more incremental as it would give time to evaluate the effect of widening the roads on Riyadh. Furthermore, having already made the space to put the light rail system in, if the CEO agreed to implement it in 2020, it would not be too far from the current system. This step also proved to be political as the team members devia ted from their plan to speak out about their proposed resolution. They realized that simply presenting a rational plan would not necessarily grant them the resolution they prescribed. Here it seems that the rational planning led them to consider incremental planning after addressing the politicization of the issue. With this huge political influence, the issue of public participation arises. If a social issue is to be resolved, it would make sense for those affected by this matter to play a part in the decision-making. In the case of the Light Rail Planning Project, city members did contribute to the study. They reported that they would be happy with the light rail system and would make use of it. However, their opinions were disregarded by the CEO as he was concerned with something other than the majority of the public. As Sherry Arnstein wrote in an article, participation without redistribution of power is an empty and frustrating process for the powerless. It allows the power-holders to claim that all sides were considered, but makes it possible for only some of those sides to benefit, (1969, p. 216). With the decision to widen the roads, it is not completely clear who benefitted most, although there are the possibilities of the oil companies, the religious leaders, and the CEO himself. Mayb e these parties did not necessarily benefit from the widening of the roads, but they likely didnt lose anything as the implementation of the light rail system implies they would have. The planners tried to come up with an alternative that would best solve the traffic congestion in Riyadh and benefit the public, but they were unable to complete their process as they did not anticipate the power of politics in their planning. The powerless that Arnstein refers to in her article seem to be the planners as well as the majority of residents in Riyadh in this particular plan. Despite majority input and studies that showed the light rail system was the best solution environmentally, economically and socially, it was not implemented. However, when the planners finally became advocates for their cause and appealed to the nature of politics while abandoning simple rational planning, they seemed to make some progress. This shows how seemingly ineffective rational planning theory is singularly in regards to city planning. It appears that rational planning would only be effective in regards to public policy if it acquired use of other theories as well as politicization. Lessons Learned In examining this case study, it appears that plans are often made but the deciders dont necessarily take actions that reflect those proposed by the plan (Taylor, 1998). Rationalists cannot assume that their plans will be implemented if they have not put thought into the support from other key players; implementation of town plans often requires the support and cooperation from a group that holds power in the community. Plans can be aborted or changed if there is no support from those who hold political power (ibid.). Incrementalists have a better understanding of town planning. The proposals of incrementalism suggest better application for real-world situations as they acknowledge the troubles faced during implementation. More specifically, incrementalists recognize that certain groups hold political interest in city planning, and they do not ignore this (ibid). Based on this case study and professional planning theorists knowledge, a connection between rational planning, incrementa l planning, and politics as a process of planning is seen in city planning. Conclusion From the examination of rational planning, incremental planning, and planning as a political process, the Light Rail Planning Project was able to be analyzed against these theories. Multiple planning theorists have suggested that rational and incremental planning are not completely separate theories. They suggest that the theories often intertwine in town planning. As seen from the case study of the ADA Light Rail Planning Project, it seems these theorists were correct. City planning is a complicated process as it is based around social issues rather than completely scientific ones. To claim that a planning process must be either completely incremental or rational does not seem to be accurate against these findings. Furthermore, in ignoring the role of politicization in town planning, it will likely lead to the unsuccessful implementation of plans. As planning theorists and this case study propose, politics play a major role in city planning. The conclusion can be made that town plan ning encompasses many planning theories, and politics have an important part to play in the completion of any town plan regardless of the planning process. References: Allmendinger, P. ( 2009). Planning Theory. Palgrave Macmillan. Arns

Writing as a Tool to Enlightenment in Invitation to a Beheading Essay

Writing as a Tool to Enlightenment in Invitation to a Beheading Vladimir Nabokov’s Invitation to a Beheading concerns a man struggling for enlightenment against a society that demands its citizens question none of the absurdities that rule their world. In this restrictive environment, where a person can be killed for having depth--for being â€Å"opaque†--Cincinnatus uses writing to help him obtain enlightenment. First, Cincinnatus writes to preserve â€Å"a record of verified thoughts† (Nabokov 51). He wants to give hope to those who, like him, may be persecuted and alone. However, Cincinnatus constantly struggles to express, through writing, ideas that cannot be articulated. This inability leads Cincinnatus to finally understand that writing prevents him from gaining ultimate freedom and enlightenment. He realizes that writing is merely another shackle binding him to the physical world. Cincinnatus finds enlightenment when he willingly rejects all that binds him to the corporeal, including the inspirational writings dedicat ed to his fellow nonconformist, which provided him with so much relief during his imprisonment. This idea of releasing the soul from the burdens of the body and the physical world is greatly enhanced when connected to some of the basic principles of Zen Buddhism. These principles are built around the idea that removing the self from its physical limitations is the key to enlightenment, which is what Cincinnatus finds himself doing. Therefore, each step Cincinnatus takes along the path to enlightenment, aided by the knowledge gained through his writings, is best understood when related to Zen, for each step corresponds to an important teaching within this Eastern faith. Zen Buddhism is based on â€Å"th... ...nnatus’s journey reveals. To truly achieve enlightenment, a reader and a writer, must transcend reading and writing for what the mind already knows. Works Cited Bancroft, Anne. Zen: Direct Pointing to Reality. Spain: Thames and Hudson, 1979. Champawat. â€Å"Samsara.† Online posting. VT EReserve. 30 Mar. 2001 http://ereserve.ward.vt.edu/view.jhtml?crn=20010112004. Cooper, J.C. An Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Traditional Symbols. New York: Thames and Hudson, 1999. Kapleau, Roshi Philip. Zen: Merging of East and West. New York: Doubleday, 1989. Kotz, Sean. â€Å"Buddhism, Taoism, Zen.† Online posting. VT EReserve. 30 Mar. 2001 http://ereserve.ward.vt.edu/view.jhtml?crn=20010112004. Nabokov, Vladimir. Invitation to a Beheading. New York: Vintage, 1989. Radcliff, Benjamin, and Amy Radcliff. Understanding Zen. Boston: Tuttle, 1993.

Analysis of Theme for English Essay

The premise behind this poem is that the speaker is a black college student whose instructor has given his students an assignment to write a paper about themselves. While the poem takes the reader through his walk home from class and his thought process about â€Å"who he is†, the final line of the poem, â€Å"This is my page for English B† (ll. 41) suggests that this poem is the paper he has written for class. Langston Hughes wrote this poem during the Harlem Renaissance of the late 1910s, so a reader might immediately assume that the main topic involves race or racial prejudice. The second stanza almost takes this direction when the speaker mentions that he is â€Å"the only colored student in [his] class† (ll. 10). The third stanza changes directions, though, when the speaker, addressing his white instructor, says, â€Å"I guess being colored doesn’t make me not like / the same things other folks like who are other races† (ll. 25-26). This suggests that he is not, because he is black, different than others, but rather, the same. White people might think that his preferences are different, but they are actually similar. Asking â€Å"So will my page be colored that I write† (ll. 27) is a creative play on his identity that will come across in the paper he will write for class; will it reflect his â€Å"blackness†?, he wonders. It â€Å"will not be white† (ll. 28) he knows, since he is not, but it will partially reflect his instructor, the one who gave the assignment. After all, both he and his instructor are human (â€Å"yet a part of me, as I am a part of you† (ll. 32)). As the poem closes, the speaker draws his conclusions about his own racial identity: he no more wants to be white than his white instructor wants to be black, but there is no denying the similarity between them. He’ll learn from the instructor (â€Å"As I learn from you†(ll. 37)) but the instructor will also learn from him (â€Å"I guess you learn from me† (ll. 38)). Perhaps he thinks the instructor does not understand what it’s like to be black. A quick scan through the lines of this poem reveals the frequent use of the words â€Å"I†, â€Å"me†, and â€Å"you†, which are a clue for the poem’s overall theme:  should one find his identity through his race, or through ordinary, everyday elements, likes and dislikes, enjoyable pastimes and perceptions of life? In lines 6-15 alone, the word â€Å"I† is used to ask questions, tell his age, race, and birthplace, his college, and route home to the Harlem Branch YMCA. This is how he identifies himself outwardly to others. The third stanza uses â€Å"I† and â€Å"me† to compare himself to â€Å"you†, the instructor. The speaker identifies himself with Harlem in the lines which read â€Å"But I guess I’m what / I feel and see and hear, Harlem, I hear you: / hear you, hear me – we two – you, me, talk on this page† (ll.17-19). Many black people during this time were inspired by Harlem’s empowerment of their community. Having a black heritage was seen as positive and black poets, musicians and authors thrived in Harlem. The speaker has likely been encouraged by living in Harlem, and therefore sees his black identity in direct contrast to â€Å"you†, the white identity of his instructor. He’s not entirely sure, though, because the short line â€Å"Me – who?† (ll. 20) indicates that his identity isn’t clear to him, or maybe to whites. The fourth stanza’s conclusion about this issue recognizes that to allow blacks to be proud of their heritage is â€Å"American† (ll. 33). While this poem doesn’t seem to make use of specific figurative language, there is one instance of alliteration which makes a neat point. In the third stanza, the speaker points out the things he enjoys that help to identify him, including â€Å"records – Bessie, bop, or Bach† (ll. 24). This intentional alliteration identifies three different types of music: a jazz vocalist (Bessie Smith), the bop genre, and Bach (classical), to point out that even a black man whose culture strongly identifies with jazz and bop music, can like classical music which is often associated with white culture. The alliteration serves to highlight the â€Å"sameness† of these three, all of which he likes, but their difference lies in their cultural associations. Although there is no specific rhyme scheme, internal rhyme throughout and the rhyme at the end seem intentional. The internal rhyme has an almost sing-song sound to it, and provides a beautiful flow from line to line. In lines 16-17, the rhyme of â€Å"true†, â€Å"you† and â€Å"two† and the enjambment of the lines seems to ask the question â€Å"what is true of ‘you’ and me†? This same  rhyme patter is repeated in the fourth stanza in lines 35-36, â€Å"Nor do I often want to be a part of you. / But we are, that’s true!†. This seems to answer the question: the common factor between â€Å"you† and â€Å"me† is that we are part of each other, â€Å"that’s true!†. As the speaker comes to this decision in the end, the tone is final and the end rhyme becomes even, as though his decision is final and right. He says â€Å"I guess you learn from me – / although you’re older – and white – / and somewhat more free. / This is my page for English B†. The rhyme of â€Å"me†, â€Å"free† and â€Å"B† suggest an answer to his question: the instructor will learn from him, although it will not immediately change the identity of any person, white or black. This is one of my favorite poems because of its rhythm and rhyme. Lines like â€Å"Harlem, I hear you: / hear you, hear me – we two – you, me† (ll. 18-19) and the last four have a rhythm like music and the words just flow from my mouth as I read them. They’re short and simple, but pack such a powerful punch. And while I cannot identify with the racial divide so present in this poem, I like to think about how being white is assumed, and being black is not. It was probably such a simple assignment for the professor to give, yet how many of the white students would have written about being â€Å"white†? And does the speaker think that the instructor will expect him to write about being black? And will his paper reflect being black or will it be just as â€Å"white† as the others? Hughes makes a play on this concept with the line â€Å"So will my page be colored that I write?† (ll. 27). For me, this poem is easy to understand but not overl y simplified. The concept is a complex one, but is presented in a way that makes it seem like a neat little package.

Othello as an Outsider Essays

Othello as an Outsider Essays Othello as an Outsider Paper Othello as an Outsider Paper Essay Topic: Othello In Shakespeare’s play â€Å"Othello† the character Othello is presented as an outsider to the events that are taking place amongst the other characters. He was excluded from what the truth holds and this caused his downfall, along with his jealous nature and stubbornness. To make things worse Iago’s cunning plans captures Othello into a downward spiral to his defeat. The sense of irony involved is regarded as a highly important technique that is repeated through out the play. As a stubborn and decisive man he was unable to discern from evil and good. His extreme jealous nature is a significant character trait in which plays a large roll in Othello’s actions. Othello is presented as an outsider to the events that take place throughout the play, this causes the drama and increased irony within the play. He is unaware of the conversations and relationships that are taking place between other characters such as Desdemona and Cassio. Being oblivious towards the truth and having an insecure nature he jumped to conclusion without attempting to sort out complications. His insecurities lead him to only trust the one and only â€Å"honest† Iago, without knowing he is trusting the wrong person he was manipulated. Due to the fact that Othello only believed in his â€Å"honest† Iago he was unable to make decisions that weren’t biased from the rumors which Iago convinced was true. Othello as an outsider came with difficulties due to the lack of trust he had with Desdemona, the lack of trust came from the insufficient amount of communication they had with each other. He placed a small amount of trust into his own wife compared to the trust he had give to â€Å"honest† Iago. This may have been due to his lack of communication with females during his military conflicts. The lack of knowledge of communication may have made it difficult for him to communicate with his wife. He may have learnt to never trust a woman in military situations but found it difficult to adjust into household situations. A fatal flaw that Othello had was the jealous nature in which he had. His high amount jealousy made it convenient for Iago to manipulate Othello through his cunning words â€Å"beware, my lord, of jealous: it is the green eyed monster†. Although he seems to be convincing Othello to be aware of jealousy he secretly wants Othello to turn jealous. By saying this it highlights the dramatic irony in which Iago challenges to destroy Othello’s success. His jealous nature and with the ocular proof before him he could not resist from planning his wife’s death â€Å"I’ll not expostulate with her, let her body and beauty unprovide my mind again†. This is enough to suggest Othello is a very stubborn and decisive man that does not liked to be questioned. Just like a General he will take responsibility for his actions and for his woman. His judgment and accusation that he made was unreasonable and he refused to listen to her explain to â€Å"unprovide my mind again†. Othello has a constant fear for his reputation that has been put into jeopardy by his wife. As a General he is highly regarded and if anyone were to find out of this cuckold he would be shamed in front of his army. In Act 2 Scene 3 Cassio foreshadowed Othello in the lost of his reputation, â€Å"I have lost the immortal part of myself†. The loss of reputation is seen as loosing a part of one’s self, Cassio was unable to bear the consequence of losing face in front of his general. He repeats the word reputation to emphasise the importance of his reputation in which he has lost. After the death of his wife in Act 5 Scene 2 he feels the shame in â€Å"one that loved not wisely, but too well†. Othello admits his weakness as a jealous man, which led him to kill himself from the truth of his actions. The trafficking of human beings from Africa to western countries was highly common in the time of Othello’s leadership of his men. This is a crucial point in which reflects on the concept of Othello as an outsider. Othello as an Arabian Moor was a slave in his past years â€Å"And sold to slavery†, this may have caused his low self-esteem and unconfident image. In Elizabethan times society’s attitudes towards Moors and different races were often very poor. It was clear that Moors like Othello were not welcome to a place in the Elizabethan social order. Shakespeare’s audience would have seen Othello and Desdemona’s marriage as an outrage. It would have caused the audience to perceive this as unusual because he is a black man. Others around him may have been jealous of his success like Iago, it was too much for him to accept which led him to feel the need to destroy Othello. Brabantio was too ashamed of his daughter’s decision to marry a Moor. It was seen as an unjustified action, Brabrantio’s reaction towards the marriage was very poor. This issue relates back to the theme of reputation and loss of face amount colleagues. Brabantio had lost face in front of the Duke and all the Senators of the State because of Desdemona. â€Å"Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to see: She has deceived her father and may thee†, Brabantio is foreshadowing the reason of Othello’s downfall. As an Arabian Othello was unaware of Venetian customs and traditions. This played a major part in the play because of the uncertainties Othello had for his wife and himself. The uncertainties lead to a low self-esteem and knowledge about his wife, without knowledge of Venetian women it was hard for him to understand Desdemona. Through out the play Othello as in outsider had unfair stereotypes placed upon him, this proved to be a challenge for him. There was a constant fear of his reputation at stake, it was possible that he did not want to remain a slave for the Venetians. Shakespeare’s use of a black man as a main character of the play, this suggests that he disagrees with the stereotypical white man as the superior character. If Othello was not an outsider he may have been the superior protagonist of the play and there would not have been a downfall in his success.

Critically appraise the education provision available for people with Diabetes. Education on prevention of Foot Ulcers in Diabetes. The WritePass Journal

Critically appraise the education provision available for people with Diabetes. Education on prevention of Foot Ulcers in Diabetes. Introduction Critically appraise the education provision available for people with Diabetes. Education on prevention of Foot Ulcers in Diabetes. IntroductionCauses of diabetic foot ulcerSigns and symptoms of diabetic foot ulcerMethodsPrevention of diabetic foot ulcerGood foot care Existing education provision Education – best practiceConclusion Related Introduction Currently I am working in a nursing home where the elderly residents have various illnesses including the after effects of strokes and dementia. Due to their age and particular care needs the education for health support workers, senior carers and nurses who are at the centre of this care provision is fundamentally important. The aim of this assignment will therefore be the appraisal of this education, meaning their training and ongoing monitored development, with a specific focus on the prevention of foot ulcers in patients who suffer from diabetes mellitus. This is an important area for consideration because at the moment health care support workers have no formal education in the prevention of foot ulcers in diabetes patients and can be ignorant of its symptoms. As with nurses it is reasonable to expect that they should have attained a certain level of knowledge in this area as the consequences of foot ulcers can be very serious and in cases can lead to amputation. This ultimately has a significant impact on the quality of life of the diabetes sufferer and the carer therefore has a duty of care to protect their patient against this preventable outcome. It should be noted that 85% of cases which end in amputation can avoided (Garay- Sevilla et al., 2002, 81-86). In order to carry out this critical appraisal the first step is to consider the causes of diabetic foot ulcers, it signs and symptoms, treatment and prevention. The assessment of these factors is necessary because it deconstructs the knowledge required by health care workers and subsequently allows the provision of education to be accordingly evaluated for its accuracy and comprehensiveness. The next point to discuss is the current state of education on offer. This will be assessed in terms of how far it provides the level of knowledge needed by people who are in the position of diagnose and treat diabetic foot ulcers. Recommendations for best practice will then be make. Causes of diabetic foot ulcer One of the effects of diabetes is decreased immunity and poor wound healing. In the absence of normal blood flow specific lesions of the arteries, particularly in the extremities, can occur. Diabetic foot syndrome is one such complication and occurs in 15% of all patients with diabetes. These changes are a consequence of the existence of diabetic neuropathy. Motor neuropathy in diabetes leads to muscle atrophy and impaired co-flexors and extensors whilst also effecting deformation rate. Sensory neuropathy, sensory disturbance of pain by temperature and touch, increases the risk of injury which in turn contributes to the formation of ulcers. Autonomic neuropathy results in the formation of arterial venous fistulas and impaired blood oxygenation which leads to disorders affecting the trophic ulcers (Rubin Peyrot, 1998, 81–87). The syndrome occurs in the later stages of the disease and is one of its most severe complications as it can lead to death. It manifests itself in comple x changes in the joints and foot nerves, limb deformation, and deep tissue damage. It is also associated with damage to blood vessels, nerves, skin and bones. The initial abnormality takes the form of a pressure point which can be caused by, for example, ill-fitting shoes which cause blistering, cuts, and bites caused by foreign bodies. Vascular disease, resulting in decreased blood flow, contributes to poor healing and infections can be caused by numerous microorganisms (Manson Spelsberg, 2004, 172–184). Patients who experience sensory disturbances find that pain is suppressed and consequently they might not recognize the seriousness of their situation leading to a delay in treatment. The treatment that is required must be prompt and responsible but it can also be protracted (Lustman et al., 2000, 934–943). Foot problems can affect anyone who has Diabetes regardless of whether they are being treated with insulin, non-insulin, tablets, injections, a controlled diet or physical activity. Signs and symptoms of diabetic foot ulcer In order that treatment is successful it is necessary that health care professionals and care workers can recognize the signs and symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers especially when caring for the elderly who are unable to detect the signs and symptoms. The main features of the disease include explicit sores, prolonged healing sores, changes in the shape of limbs, and, in later stages, gangrene. In the early stages symptoms usually coincide with complaints of fatigue which is accelerated by walking and standing, a sense of gravity, and freezing feet due to the deformation problems with wearing familiar footwear. One of the most pressing reasons for a good standard of education in diabetic foot ulcers is the variety of forms it might take. This means that the health care worker must be able to recognize the condition in different scenarios. The neuropathic foot is the most common form with 70% of cases of diabetic foot falling into this category. It takes the form of a hot pink color with a palpable pulse and impaired deep sensation (Wysocki Buckloh, 2002, 65–99). Another form is known as ischemic. This condition is caused by peripheral vascular occlusive. Diagnosis includes history (hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, smoking) and intermittent claudication. The foot assumes a cold bluish tinge and has no palpable pulse. The sufferer experiences a pain in motion and severe pain at rest (Lustman et al., 2000, 934–943). The final form is neuropatyczno-ischemic. This is characterized by the worst prognosis (Morisaki et al., 2004, 142–145). The main course of action is to preserve the integrity of the skin. This is because the main danger lies in the wounds and fractures where if infection takes hold the result will be purulent inflammation and necrosis. Severe pain or numbness, sores, blisters, and peeling require the most urgent medical intervention because these can lead to gangrene and ultimately amputation of the affected limb. As the only quantifiable sign of inflammation, which indicates tissue lesions, is skin temperature it is necessary to used infrared thermometers. These can be used to determine the temperature of the skin in different areas of the foot. Dermal thermometers are also useful in the interpretation of the different phases of Charcot foot and in determining the most appropriate orthopodologic treatment in each phase. However, these are specialised tools and are unsuitable for carers to use nursing homes. Methods There is very particular method which should be implemented for assessing the health of a diabetes suffer’s feet. It is this type of information which should be included in an educative strategy used to train health care workers. Before measuring the temperature of the skin in the feet, the patient should be barefoot for at least five minutes before the examination to avoid a rise in temperature due to footwear or hosiery. The result should then be recorded. The next step is to repeat the measurement in the same area of the contralateral foot and compare the results obtained. This should be done for all the high risk areas. A difference in temperature of less than 2 º c can be considered normal. Once infection has been ruled out, differences greater  Ã‚   than  Ã‚   2 º C in diabetic patients are highly suggestive of Charcot activity. When the examination is done in a patient with Charcot foot and the difference is less than 2 º C it shows that the acute period has c ome to an end. If the patient observes a difference in temperature greater than 2 ºC in self-examination on two consecutive days, he or she should contact a healthcare professional to determine the cause of the difference (www.diabeticfootjornal.net). Unfortunately there is no effective treatment for diabetic ulcers but reducing the load on the feet does offer hope of saving the affected limb. Alternative treatments can involve the use of hydrotherapy and ulcer surgery to remove necrotic tissue. Algorithm for the treatment of infected feet includes glycemic control (insulin), strain rates (shoe inserts, crutches, plaster casts), antibiotics and surgical procedures (drainage, incision, removal of dead tissue). Prevention of diabetic foot ulcer One of the most effective treatments is preventative. All patients with Diabetes Mellitus should be screened when there is a sensation of numbness or pain exists even if there are no visible lesions or ulcers (Morisaki et al., 2004, 142–145). The education of health care workers in foot ulcers therefore needs also to take into account prevention. Inspection of the stop should be performed as often as possible. If the skin of the foot shows sign of a scratch or crack you cannot use adhesive, alcohol or fat-containing ointments as these tools lead to further irritation. Redness or paleness, the presence of edema, blunting of the sensitivity, fungal lesions, and the overall deformation of the foot should be examined for deviations from the norm. If identified treatment should start immediately. In addition, from time to time, it is desirable to perform a neurological examination to determine the tactile, thermal, and vibration sensation of the foot. Angiographic diagnosis of vasc ular leg reveals the presence of thrombus. Basic steps can also be taken to prevent the occurrence of gangrene. These include the maintenance of desired blood sugar levels, the monitoring of the hygiene of the feet, making regular visits to an endocrinologist and follow their recommendations. (Clement, 1995, 1204–1214). Good foot care Education is important because good foot care has lots of pitfalls. Using the wrong cream, overcutting toe nails, walking barefoot, wearing the wrong shoes or socks can increase the chances of foot ulcers. It is necessary that the carer should be able to advise diabetes sufferers in all the dos and don’ts when it comes to looking after their feet in the proper manner to decrease the chances of contracting a foot ulcer in the first place (www.patient.co.uk). Some of these dos and don’ts are as follows; In contrast to what might seem like common sense it is vital to avoid using items such as moisturising oils or cream designed for dry skin and the prevention of cracking. Look out for athletes foot (common minor skin infection) as it can cause flaky and cracked skin The space between toes can become sore and can become infected. It is essential to monitor this. Cut your nails by following the shape of the end of the nail. Do not cut down the sides of the nails as this may cause damage or lead the nails to develop an ingrown nail. It is important to wash feet regularly and dry them carefully, especially between toes. Do not walk barefoot even at home You right treads Always wear sole or shoes or other footwear however don’t wear too tight socks around the ankle as they may affect circulation Shoes, trainers and other foot wear should; Fit well to make into accounts any awkward shapes or deformities Have broad front and plenty of room for toes Heels to avoid pressure on toes. Have good laces, buckles to prevent movement and rubbing of feet in the toes When you buy shoes, wear the type of socks that you usually wear Avoid slip on shoes, shoes with pointed toes, sandals, or flip flops. Always feel inside foot wear before you put footwear on to check for stores, rough edges etc. Tips include avoiding food burns and water burns checking the bath temperature with your hand before stepping in to it It important to avoid using items such as hot water bottles, electric blankets or foot spas. Do not sit too close to fires. Further measures include looking very carefully at the feet each day including between the toes. This involves examining the area for reduced sensation in order to not miss any vital signs of the inset of a foot ulcer. It is also necessary to look for any cuts, abrasions, bruises, blisters, redness or bleeding. If any of these symptoms are spotted carers should immediately inform the nurse who is in charge who should in turn carry contact a podiatrist or similar specialist. Existing education provision To date education in diabetic foot ulcers takes several forms. NICE recommends that all people with diabetes should be offered structured education as an integral part of their diabetes management (www.nice.co.uk). The purpose of this is to raise awareness of the side-effects and complications of diabetes in those who suffer with it. This increases the chance for early identification of foot ulcer symptoms. The XPERT Programme was launched in 2007 to provide education to all health care professionals across Wales so they are able to give structured advice to patients with type2 diabetes. In addition the National Service Framework (NSF) (2001) for diabetes set out a ten year programme for change. It outlined evidence-based standards for the planning, organising, and delivery of diabetes services. This programme represents the Welsh Assembly’s strategy for improving diabetes and through the progressive implementation of the NSF the quality of care and treatment for those living with diabetes (www.wales.gov.uk). However within this long-term plan there is little direct reference to patients in residential or nursing homes. This is also the case with the Desmond, Dafne and Bertie programmes which have little relevance for the care of the elderly. Clearly there is a significant gap within the education of health care professionals. This gap is apparent in the nursing home where I work as none of the staff have received any particular training specifically related to diabetes mellitus. This clearly puts the residents of the home in an at risk category because the chances of their carers recognising the early symptoms of foot ulcers are substantially reduced. Within the nursing home and home care system however there does exist a health care specialist with the expertise to assist in raising awareness about the causes and prevention of foot ulcers; the podiatrist. The work of a podiatrist is overseen by the Chiropody Code Of Conduct which states that chiropodists and podiatrists must be able to work, where appropriate, in partnership with other professional support staff, service users and their relatives and carers. They should also ‘be able to demonstrate effective and appropriate skills in communicating information, advice, instruction and professional opinion to colleagues, service users, their relative s and carers’ (Standards of proficiency, Health Professions Council, 2009). However, in practice this is frequently not the case. The health support workers are not currently included in visits and are not given the opportunity to learn or ask questions when the podiatrists are called to review residents. Neither do they pass on information about their findings to staff on duty. Evidently there is an issue of communication. The podiatrist is not the only person with a professional duty to assist health care workers with their treatment of foot ulcers. The NMC code of conduct states that nurses should work with others to protect and promote the health and wellbeing of those in their care, their families and carers and the wider community. Therefore, the nurse in charge should ensure that learning opportunities are facilitated and that staff have feedback from these specialist visits which help to inform and improve the care delivered to residents. Education – best practice The current provision of education demonstrates that the education of health workers is largely at the discretion of their employers. If individual employers do decide to provide their staff with training there is little in the way of advice to follow and this can result in poorly informed, ill-conceived or simply inadequate education. At the same time it creates a situation whereby health care workers have to rely on experience gained on the job to identify the symptoms of foot ulcers or their own inclination to acquire further knowledge. For new members of the staff who lack experience there might exist a worrying amount of ignorance on the subject. There is however much potential to improve this situation. In best practice education takes a variety of forms. This may include formal study sessions, workplace booklets or posters and online education programmes. Therefore there is potential for foot ulcer education to be flexible and made to suit the particular needs of a workplace. At my workplace none of these options have been made available. Ideally the best situation would be a formal study session where the expert knowledge of a specialist can be imparted and where full training can be given. The information gained should then be reinforced at the workplace through posters or leaflets. Conclusion Conclusively it is very important that diabetic foot ulcers are prevented at all times while treating patients with diabetes, especially in the elderly who might for other reasons associated with dementia and impaired movement find it harder to care for themselves. Education of health care professionals is key in achieving this. They should have the necessary knowledge to help prevent foot ulcers, to recognise the first symptoms of one, and to provide effective treatment. They must also be able to advise the diabetes sufferer on how to care for their feet and how to avoid the contraction of a foot ulcer in the first instance. Despite this clear need for knowledgeable clinicians the situation as it currently stands fails to provide health care workers who look after the elderly with the training they require to the provide the best standard of service possible. Whilst measures are in place for the education of both diabetic sufferers and nurses, more work needs to be done on identifyi ng the educational requirements of those who care for elderly patients. Best practice in education should be drawn upon and formal training sessions organised alongside the better provision of information within the workplace. The expertise of specialists such as podiatrists should also utilised more effectively so that staff within the nursing home are well informed and understand the treatment their patients are undergoing and their specific needs. Communication is at the heart of this.

The Portrayal of Brazil in the U.S. News Media Thesis

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Environmental Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

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