Transcendentalist Mccandless

Transcendentalist McCandless What is transcendentalism? How is Christopher J. McCandless a transcendentalist? Transcendentalism is a philosophy, and a way of life. It consists of being a non-conformist, becoming one with nature, and rejecting materialism. Throughout Jon Krakauer’s novel, Into The Wild, McCandless happens to achieve all of the above. â€Å"Whoso would be a man, must be a non-conformist† (Emerson). He defied society, lived in the wild, and never cared about â€Å"things†. He existed off the land in Alaska, the west coast, and even Mexico. McCandless did not want anything else in life but happiness; he found this in the wilderness.As Emerson states in Self-Reliance, â€Å"society everywhere is in conspiracy against the manhood of ever one of its members. † Conforming to society means to not be true to oneself. McCandless thought that conforming to society would make him another robot citizen. He believed in having his own opinion, being origi nal, and living how he wanted to. He proved this by â€Å"wandering across North America in search of raw, transcendent experience† (Krakauer authors note). This describes the adventure of his life, what he wanted, and what his plans were. Nobody knew Chris had planned on this.During his time working at McDonalds, McCandless also refused to wear socks. The assistant manager, George Dreeszen, even says that Chris â€Å"just plain couldn’t stand to wear socks† (40). McCandless did not care what people criticize him for, he did what he wanted to do, not what others told him was proper. In fact, as soon as he was done work he would immediately take his socks off. Another way McCandless proves to being a non-conformist is by living in the Slabs. Anybody could live in the Slabs, â€Å"the retired, the exiled, the destitute, the perpetually unemployed.Its constituents are men and women and children of all ages†¦the middle-class grind† (43). Any type and eve ry type of person lived in the Slabs. Chris felt accepted here, for nobody was judging your every move. By wearing no socks, living in the Slabs, and doing what he wanted made McCandless a non-conformist, a social outcast. Throughout the novel, it is evident that McCandless promotes becoming one with nature by talking about it with other employees when working at McDonald’s, writing about it in a letter to Ronald Franz, and writing about it in other letters as well.For example, in a letter McCandless wrote to Ronald Franz, he talks about becoming one with nature. He pressures how Franz should life his life. McCandless states, â€Å"you must lose your inclination for monotonous security and adopt a helter-skelter style of†¦ Don’t settle down and sit in one place. Move around, be nomadic, make each day a new horizon† (57). McCandless not only wants a life in the wild, he is also trying to spread the wilderness lifestyle to Franz. Likewise, while McCandless wa s employed at Bullhead’s McDonalds, he tends to talk about becoming one with nature.Other employees could tell that he loved nature by spending very little time with him. Lori Zarza, the second assistant manager of the McDonald’s, states that, â€Å"he was always going on about trees and nature and weird stuff like that† (40). McCandless was infatuated over the idea of living in the wild. Moreover, in another letter that McCandless wrote, he talks about how nature has transformed him. McCandless states, â€Å"The beauty of this country is becoming part of me† (91). He is absorbing the country; it is changing the way he looks at life. McCandless can only fixate on becoming one with nature while he is not in its presence.Christopher McCandless rejects materialism during the course of the novel and pursues the simple life by refusing a brand new car from his parents, rebuffing Jim Gallien’s watch, and giving his savings away, and burning his cash. McC andless first rejects materialism by burning all the cash he had left after giving away his savings. He did not wish to be able to use money as a way to help him. â€Å"He changed his name, gave the entire balance of a twenty-four-thousand-dollar savings account to charity, abandoned his car and most of his possessions, [and] burned all the cash in his wallet† (Author’s Note).Any materialistic person would consider him crazy for his bizarre actions. Then, he turns down a brand new car his parents offered to buy him. He believed his car to be in perfect condition. McCandless states, â€Å"I’ve told them a million times that I have the best car in the world†¦ yet they ignore what I say and think I’d actually accept a new car from them† (21). McCandless has visibly made his point that he does not want any â€Å"things†. McCandless then goes on to decline Jim Gallien’s offer to take his watch. He did not want to know the time nor whe re he was.Gallien states that wished not, â€Å"to know what time it is. I don’t want to know what day it is or where I am† (7). McCandless wants to be as free as he can, having a watch will give him too much unnecessary information. A typical materialist has reasons to believe McCandless as outlandish for his discarding of his money, and not wanting a free watch or car. McCandless did not worry about the â€Å"things† in life; he just wanted happiness. Krakauer proved McCandless to be a transcendentalist. McCandless could not care less about the standards that were bestowed upon his generation.He wanted to be himself, not a societal robot. McCandless did not enjoy wearing socks, he lived in the Slabs; a place where almost all non-conformist go. He left the Slabs to live in the wilderness; he worshipped the wilderness, which led to his demise. Of all the things that were offered to him, McCandless accepted none. â€Å"Rather than love, than money, than fame, gi ve me truth† (117). He just wanted the truth to his family. He wanted happiness, McCandless wanted to know everything would be safe and sound. McCandless is a transcendentalist, he only wished to be happy, free of all the â€Å"things†, and in the wild.

NFL Concussions and Their Long-Term Effects Essay

On May 2, 2012, the National Football League lost one of its elite players to suicide: Junior Seau. Seau played for the Chargers, Dolphins, and the Patriots during his professional football career and was a 12-time Pro Bowler before retiring in 2009. Three years after his retirement however, Seau committed suicide by shooting himself in the chest with a gun. This greatly shocked the football world and its image of Junior Seau as a person, but it soon realized the cause for his action. Shortly after Seau’s death, researchers examined Seau’s brain and found that it contained a disease known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy which is formed by repeated blows to the head; a very common disease among former football players (Football Brains). The Seau family then filed a lawsuit against the NFL claiming that the league held back information from the players about the danger of continuous blows to the head (Seau’s Death on Brain Injuries). Since the formation of the National Football League in 1920, the popularity of the sport has grown tremendously over the years. It seems nowadays that more and more people are getting interested in the NFL, whether it is talking about their favorite team at work or at school or watching them play on game day. However, on the flip side of all the amazing catches and touchdowns, there is a dark side to the NFL known as the concussion problem. This problem has grown so much over the years that there have been more than 4200 lawsuits by former and current players against the NFL stating that the NFL has been trying to cover up the detrimental long term effects of concussions and also relied on NFL doctors to feed them the information they wanted to hear while rejecting the studies done by researches showing the long term effects concussions have on the brain (Junior Seau’s Death Keeps Spotlight on Brain Injuries). In order for the NFL to keep thriving the way it is right now, the league had to reject the information shown by researchers which showed the harmful effects of concussions in the long run and instead had to hire their â€Å"own† doctors to say that concussions are minor and cause no detrimental long run effects. I believe that repetitive concussions do cause  health problems in the future for NFL players and that the NFL covered up the truth about concussions. Being that I watch the NFL regularly, it seems like it is almost guaranteed that at least one or more players will experience a concussion during the game with all the physical contact taking place. Some of the concussions these players experience are obvious in that they are motionless on the ground and some are not so obvious in that they are still able to make it to the bench. According to Jennifer Car of BrainFacts.org, a concussion is caused when the head is struck violently which then leads to a brief disruption in brain activity. When the head is struck suddenly, the brain is set in motion and bangs the skull’s rough and ragged inside which causes the brain cells to stretch and sometimes even split (Mild Brain Injury and Concussion). Michael Collins, a clinical psychologist at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center who specializes in sports-related concussions, states that â€Å"a concussion is basically an energy crisis to the brain cells† and he also states that â€Å"the brain has to work much harder to perform tasks† (Hard Knocks: The Science of Concussions). This disruption can cause an individual to experience a variety of different symptoms in the following minutes and hours. The range of symptoms includes the following: nausea, vomiting, brief loss of consciousness, and dizziness (Hard Knocks: The Science of Concussions). Later symptoms include: lightheadedness, depression, anxiety, ringing in the ears, constant migraine headaches, and poor concentration or attention (Mild Brain Injury and Concussion). The symptoms mentioned in the previous paragraph may last a couple days to a few weeks; at most a few months. Those who experience these types of symptoms usually receive a concussion maybe once or twice in their lifetimes. However, those professional athletes competing in sports with a good deal of physical contact are in harm’s way of experiencing multiple concussions during their career as an athlete. According to recent research, scientists have discovered a neurodegenerative disease also known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy or CTE (Hard Knocks: The Science of Concussions). This disease was found in the brains of former athletes who have died mainly boxers and football players (What is CTE?). These athletes were those who  have received continuous concussions or played in positions where they were vulnerable to experience a good amount of physical impact (Hard Knocks: The Science of Concussions). The repeated banging of the brain against the skull causes a gradual d egeneration of the brain tissue, and also the forming of an unusual protein known as tau (What is CTE?). These activities in the brain can take place months or even years after the last concussion or retirement from the sport. Some of the symptoms associated with CTE include: memory loss, confusion, depression, aggression, hindered judgment, and dementia (What is CTE?). There is definitely evidence of the symptoms of CTE among former NFL players. There are many examples of former NFL players who have suffered from CTE and have killed themselves and/or those around them including the Junior Seau suicide event that was mentioned in the opening paragraph. The first example is John Grimsley, who was a former Houston Oilers linebacker. Grimsley shot himself by accident while he was cleaning his gun one day (Football Brains). The former NFL player was a skilled outdoorsman and should have easily performed the task of cleaning his gun. A second example is Justin Strzelczyk, who was a former offensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Strzelczyk was involved in a high-speed hit-and-run chase with the police which turned into a fiery crash where he eventually died (Football Brains). Another example is former Canadian professional wrestler Chris Benoit who murdered his wife and child and then took his own life (Football Brains). The final example is Tom McHale, who was a former Tampa Bay Buccaneer. He died at the age of 45 from a drug overdose (Football Brains). All the brains of these former professional athletes were taken for study and all their brains were found to contain the brain disease CTE in them (Football Brains). Another study was done on the affects of repeated concussions causing CTE by Ann McKee. According to Ann McKee, who is a neuropathologist at Bedford VA Medical Center, â€Å"brains of patients with CTE have unique patterns of abnormal protein tangles and cell loss† (Hard Knocks: The Science of Concussions). Her study analyzed the brains of former athletes and war veterans who have experienced multiple brain injuries. McKee’s research showed that out of the 85 brains she has studied, 68 of the brains contained the brain disease CTE (Hard Knocks: The Science of  Concussions). There is extensive research still being done by scientists in the area of CTE and if there is a con nection between repeated blows to the head and the formation of CTE in the brain. In fact the National Football League has decided to donate $30 million to the National Institutes of Health’s Neurology Institute to help further studies on concussions among football players and military troops (NFL Donates $30 Million To Concussion Research). More and more research and evidence on concussions is being brought to the fore front, as well as the numerous tragedies that occurred among former NFL players stemming from repeated concussions. Because of this, the NFL league and the NFL Mild Traumatic Brain Injury committee secretly decided to â€Å"cover up† and put down all the extensive studies and findings that have been recently popping up by scientists outside the NFL. In the PBS TV documentary League of Denial, the NFL is portrayed as a greedy money-driven industry that would do anything to keep the league from falling apart, even to the extent of withholding information from players about the long-term consequences from repeated blows to the head. In this film, the spotlight is cast on Dr. Bennett Omalu who was the first scientist to discover CTE (â€Å"NFL Concussion Cover-up†). His findings of CTE came from the brains of former Pittsburgh Steeler Mike Webster and his teammate Terry Long. Dr. Omalu’s findings were tremendously influential because it was the spark for the connection between repetitive blows to the head and CTE. However, as Dr. Omalu began publishing his findings about CTE in the brains of Webster and Long, the NFL soon noticed his findings and took action. Dr. Omalu recalled a conversion he had with a NFL doctor in which the NFL doctor said, â€Å"Dr. Omalu, do you know the consequences of what you are doing? If 10 percent of mothers in America started to view football as a dangerous sport, it would be the end of football† (â€Å"NFL Concussion Cover-up†). This obviously shows that NFL doctors realize that the findings between multiple concussions and CTE are true, but they are reluctant to admit to it because they are afraid that the NFL will dissolve into nothing if the â€Å"truth† is discovered. The NFL realized that the league was in jeopardy so they decided to publicly denounce the findings of Dr. Omalu by saying that his work was flawed. However, this was not the only attempt that the NFL made it trying to put  down the findings from scientists on the connection between repetitive concussions and CTE. In a 2007 meeting with the NFL’s Mild Traumatic Brain Injury committee, Julian Bailes who is the to p neurosurgeon at the Northshore Neurological Institute, displayed several pictures of CTE that was almost certainly caused by frequent concussions. However, the chairman of the committee downplayed all the evidence that was shown to them by Julian Bailes even though the evidence was pretty clear. The Commissioner of the NFL, Roger Goodell, decided that it was best for the league to conduct its own study about concussions. He released the following statements regarding the evidence being shown to the league by â€Å"outside† doctors and researchers, â€Å"You have to look at their entire medical history. To look at something that is isolated without looking at their entire medical history I think is irresponsible† (NFL Covering Up Research?). From just this one instance, we can definitely see that the NFL is trying its best to ignore the â€Å"clear-cut† evidence about the connection between repetitive concussions and CTE. It seems as though the Commissioner and the head of the NFL Brain Injury committee realize that the information and the research that was showed to them was true so they had to make sure it did not leak out to the players and also to the media.

Causes and Effect Essays - Walmart, Retailing, Criticism Of Walmart

auses and Effect 1. Lack cleanliness and tidiness -the store is always crowded and customers litter everywhere. -not enough labor hours to clean the big store -part time employees do not care about the stores cleanliness 2. Stores are not restocking shelves fast enough. - bad communication between front and back end of the store - some of the merchandise are not up to date - not enough labor hours to do routine stocking therefore shelves were left bare - Walmart has cut so many employees during recession that it no longer has enough workers to stock its shelves properly. - Walmart reduced the range of merchandise it carried to make stores less cluttered. Unfortunately, customers did not like the change, and Walmart added merchandise back but did not add enough employees back 3. Prices are not always as low as competitors. -there are stores who deal lower prices at similar sales -the production cost high that causes high prices. In oder to 4. Digital services need to be integrated with physical stores.( allowing online services) -the store is huge and hectic. -some customers do not like to waiting in line that caused by the slow worker. -parking place is far from the store. -fewer sales associates, less management, and longer lines at the check-out register.

Critical Legal Thinking Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Critical Legal Thinking - Assignment Example The small group has the ability to dictate the major corporation as long as the arguments presented are justified under the state laws. Once the small group files suit against the major corporation, it is the duty of the court to see to it that justice is practiced and the claims are fulfilled. Not any other factors, size inclusive, are considered in the enforcement of the law. This makes it very easy for such a small group to dictate how affairs of major corporations should run.As a high-level manager for a shoe manufacturer, I would take note of the fact that any decision I make concerning the business is vital and may bring about highly significant results. Bearing this in mind, I would evaluate keenly the options I have in making specific decisions. To help me in this, I would apply the steps that act as guidance in making good decisions in business. One of the steps states that the decisions should be in terms of the state laws that govern business activities in the specified fi eld. There have been cases in court related to the risk I am almost engaging in is enough evidence on the importance of practicing legal activities in business. There are strong laws that defend women even during international business activities. This is proof that messing around with their role in business could put any organization into great trouble. I would hence find better and safer ways of earning more profits other than violating the law.     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  

Journal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 73

Journal - Essay Example Additionally, I do not understand how change in time as well invention of technology will in any way change a humble person to a narcissist. Despite of these confusions however, I conquer with the opinion of O’Brien that the current young people lack cognitive empathy. This is evidenced by the neglect of young people towards each other not only at school, but also in other social amenities. At least the article makes me know that I am not I my own world when I consider current youths self-centered in their activities. In addition to expounding my understanding of the challenges of the young people, today’s reading also boosts my writing skill by introducing me to new vocabularies. It also expounds my reasoning and as a result enables me to learn how my courses relate to each other. Additionally, today’s reading enhances practicability of what we read before by detailing on what takes place in the current society. Although I do not understand how O’Brien carried out his research worldwide and came up with the conclusion that human empathy is declining with time, I do agree that his article was educative and

My Nursing Philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

My Nursing Philosophy - Essay Example For me to develop my nursing practice, I contemplated on what nursing means to me as well as factors that guide my nursing practice. In the course of my nursing studies, I have encountered different situations, which have enabled me develop my personal nursing philosophy. Additionally they have changed and molded my assumptions regarding nursing practices. However, they have at times challenged my assumption and personal value but for the better. Developing a personal nursing philosophy required me to reflect on my assumptions about nursing and compare them with the facts I had learned, particularly from the different philosophers accredited for developing different concepts that shaped nursing practices. Nursing practices entails giving patient-centered care and maintaining the different ethics that guide nurses in their practice. My nursing philosophy is based on my experiences, nursing education, principles, and theories that guide nursing, as well as my goals as a nurse. It addresses the aspects surrounding nursing practice, which include the society, environment, the patient of recipient of nursing care, health, and nursing care. I have always been compassionate about giving professional caring towards patients. For me, nursing is not just about me as the nurse and the patient, it comprise the patients family and the society. This is because of the roles that may pray in preventing occurrence of certain diseases as well as their contribution in enhancing healing of patients. Additionally, they are an important source of information regarding patients and other health related problems. The American Nurses Association definition of nursing (2004, p. 7) as â€Å"Protection, promoti ng, and Abilities, prevention of illnesses and injury, alleviation of suffering through the diagnosis and treatment of human response and advocacy in the care of individuals, families, communities, and populations† clearly describes what nursing entails. I find this definition very comprehensive since it clearly defines the roles of a nurse. Additionally, it demonstrates the need for continuous knowledge acquisition as key to proficient nursing. For quite some time the issue on whether nursing is, an art or a science has been debated. Being a nurse entail taking care of the patients, this is considered as an art. Therefore, the definition of nursing is a clear depiction of the components of nursing. Being a successful nurse requires one to seek knowledge, which is then applied in the daily activities. This necessitates clear understanding of diseases, their causes, diagnosis, and treatment. This makes nursing a science since it involves seeking knowledge. According to Philips, science is â€Å"an original body of knowledge concerning human beings and their world,† (2006, p.43). Nursing is thus multidimensional, and involves acquiring knowledge in addition applying the theory of behavioral and natural sciences in defining the skills and professional values used in care giving (Warms & Schroeder, 2009; Phillips, 2006).  However, nursing goes beyond understanding the disease progression and treatment. It entails enhancing the healing process through giving care. When Nightingale (1820-1910) and Nissen (1834-1892) wrote a about nursing, they metaphorically compared it to art. They were considering the quality of care given by nurses (Austgard, 2006, 16). The aspect of care giving requires nurses to connect with the patient and their family and is thus an art. Nursing is thus both a science and an art. That is why I consider knowledge crucial for successful nursing. Additionally, applying the knowledge learnt in class is crucial since it enables one to understand different diseases and disease processes. Knowledge acquisition is the scientific component of nursing. It entails learning how to use

Ethical dilemma Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Ethical dilemma - Assignment Example In the field of health care, critical thinking is an ethical decision making process that I utilize a lot and thus it is my role to reason in a purposeful systematic manner. This implies that the nurse or any other physician has the role to get the outcome based on thinking and this will incorporate knowledge and other available information and ideas to get the way forward to a solution. On the other hand, there is the power of one as a nurse which must be obtained and practiced in an ethical manner (Eun-Jun, 2012). The power of a nurse incorporates communication skills and the knowledge for example, in a case where the patient is discharged and was suffering from pneumonia, the nurse knows the patient needs care but still if accommodated in the hospital, financial problem may occur. This illustrates dilemma with the nurses on the ethical issues. The power of the nurse come from the health care teams which depends on the knowledge and other expert skills which contribute greatly in the field of health care (Parker, 2008). The knowledge acquired must be respected since without respect he or she will not be motivated and thus no consideration of ethical principles and models. The power of the nurse again is gained due to consistent, excellent and holistic care that is provided to the patient. The power one has will help the nurse to come up with a solution in case of ethical dilemma for example I came across a patient who was suffering from pneumonia aged 50 years. Pneumonia requires medical care on regular basis and the patient considered the financial status since she was a single mother with a daughter. The patient was open to me and discussed what she has been going through and the reason why she acquired pneumonia. In addition, she talked about her financial status. Together with the patient, we had to talk to the doctor so as to settle the matter. I had to use the power of one as the nurse, alongside knowledge and be able

Assessment on Newsweek Claims on increase in violent behavior of girls Essay

Assessment on Newsweek Claims on increase in violent behavior of girls - Essay Example In 2003, the Federal Bureau of Investigation reports 378,895 instances of arrests in female groups under the age of 18 (fbi.gov, 275). The majority of these crimes included property crimes, larceny and various assaults (fbi.gov). With theft or damage to another’s property topping the list of crime varieties for this group, it might suggest that there is a trend toward materialism, essentially wanting more than their financial means can provide them, therefore they lash out at others who have more than they do. Even though this is not described as a probable cause in the article, the arrest rates for these types of crimes show a trend in theft and property damage that cannot be ignored. This could be caused by the high level of merchandise availability in retail stores versus their own socio-economic status, leading to aggressive behavior in an attempt to procure a better lifestyle through theft. â€Å"Children who are exposed to violence undergo lasting physical, mental, and emotional harm. They suffer from problems with attachment, anxiety, or depression† (ncjrs.gov, 1). Violence exposure can occur within the household, in the school environment, or virtually any other location where the child is present and violence continues to occur. These negative emotional outcomes, such as problems with social attachment, cause further problems such as dating violence, delinquency or ongoing victimization of others (ncjrs.gov). Viewing images of violence in every lifestyle shows a strong linkage between emotional stability and the child’s ability to rationalize their own aggressive behaviors. There is a theory in childhood development that suggests many children model the same behaviors they witness others displaying, especially if they see these behaviors being rewarded. In an environment where a parent continuously expresses violence toward others and the female child witnesses other adult peers applauding these behaviors, the

Analysis of Critical Thinking Skills Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Analysis of Critical Thinking Skills - Assignment Example Here the student only focused on the Christian perspective on the vaccination of their daughters. He does not compare this perspective to other perspectives. On the third critical thinking skill, I would grade the student as weak (0). He did not gather any additional evidence apart from the article. It appears that the student did not do further research on the subject or use his knowledge from other sources. On the fourth critical thinking skill, I would grade the student as partially developed (1). He only states the conclusion. The student does not offer any suggestions on how to improve the society’s current situation. On the first critical thinking skill, I would grade the student’s article as excellent (3). The student identifies both the problem at hand and the secondary problems that relate to it. The students also provide relevant solutions to the problem. Additionally, the student is well organized in how he discusses the issues raised. On the second critical thinking skill, I would grade the student as substantially developed (2). The student clearly identifies and compares different perspectives on the issue. He compares perspectives of different organizations, his gynecologist and from his own childhood experience. On the third critical thinking skill, I would grade the student as substantially developed (2). He analyzes the evidence from the article and compares it with evidences from other sources. He is not limited by the evidence provide in the article alone. He focusses on his childhood experience as well as his gynecologist’s medical perspective. On the fourth critical thinking skill, I would grade the student as excellent (3). The student puts his findings in the context of his community’s cultural understanding of the subject. He also provides relevant solutions on how to reduce HPV infections. This is through educating them about its vaccination. All the four critical thinking skills will be very

Time Management Essay Example for Free

Time Management Essay Introduction It is rightly said Time and Tide wait for none. An individual should understand the value of time for him to succeed in all aspects of life. People who waste time are the ones who fail to create an identity of their own. My Rational on my first action plan was: I have poor attitudes towards managing time, such as managing time to study. Developing effective study habits is important as they will help me to use my study time more productively and will also help to handle stress. Therefore, learning some effective memory techniques, developing a good support network and working with other class members will enhance our study habits (Anthony, 2012). So it is important for me to make an action plan about time management. Benefits of time management could be; Time Management makes an individual punctual and disciplined. One learns to work when it is actually required as a result of effective time management. To make the judicious use of time, individuals should prepare a TASK PLAN or a TO DO List at the start of the day to jot down activities which need to be done in a particular day as per their importance and urgency against the specific time slots assigned to each activity. A Task Plan gives individuals a sense of direction at the workplace. An individual knows how his day looks like and eventually works accordingly leading to an increased output (Management Study Guide [MSG]). If we do not have a proper time management skills, it will be more difficult to achieve the goals in your future. This report includes a deep research about time management skills. This includes a brief description of what is time management, how it helps in an organisation and some benefits improving your time management skills. And lastly the action plan with the actual outcomes. What is time management Time management is the art of arranging, organizing, scheduling, and  budgeting ones time for the purpose of generating more effective work and productivity. There are an abundance of books, classes, workshops, day-planners, and seminars on time management, which teach individuals and corporations how to be more organized and more productive. Time management has become crucial in recent years thanks to the 24/7, busy world in which we live (Wisegeek, 2013). Time management is important for everyone. While time management books and seminars often place their focus on business leaders and corporations, time management is also crucial for students, teachers, factory workers, professionals, and home makers. Time management is perhaps most essential for the person who owns his or her own business or who runs a business out of the home. Managing work and home responsibilities under the same roof takes a special type of time management (Wisegeek, 2013). An important aspect of time management is planning ahead. Sometimes, successful time management involves putting in more time at the outset in order to reorganize ones life. Though many time management books and teachings differ in their suggestions, most agree that the first step in efficient time management is to organize the workspace or home. Even if ones schedule is well-ordered, but the office and filing system are a disaster, time will be wasted trying to work efficiently in a disorderly place (Wisegeek, 2013). Lastly, good time management involves keeping a schedule of the tasks and activities that have been deemed important. Keeping a calendar or daily planner is helpful to stay on task, but self-discipline is also required. The most efficient to-do list in the world will not help someone who does not look at or follow his own daily planner (Wisegeek, 2013). Time management helping in organisations. Time Management refers to managing time effectively so that the right time is allocated to the right activity. Effective time management allows individuals to assign specific time slots to activities as per their importance. Time Management refers to making the best use of time as time is  always limited. Time Management plays a very important role not only in organizations but also in our personal lives. (Management Study Guide) Time Management includes: 1.Effective Planning 2.Setting goals and objectives 3.Setting deadlines 4.Delegation of responsibilities 5.Prioritizing activities as per their importance 6.Spending the right time on the right activity Effective planning: Plan your day well in advance. Prepare a To Do List or a TASK PLAN. Jot down the important activities that need to be done in a single day against the time that should be allocated to each activity. High Priority work should come on top followed by those which do not need much of your importance at the moment. Complete pending tasks one by one. Do not begin fresh work unless you have finished your previous task. Tick the ones you have already completed. Ensure you finish the tasks within the stipulated time frame (Management Study Guide). Setting goals and objectives: Working without goals and targets in an organization would be similar to a situation where the captain of the ship loses his way in the sea. Yes, you would be lost. Set targets for yourself and make sure they are realistic ones and achievable (Management Study Guide). Setting deadlines Set deadlines for yourself and strive hard to complete tasks ahead of the deadlines. Do not wait for your superiors to ask you every time. Learn to take ownership of work. One person who can best set the deadlines is you yourself. Ask yourself how much time needs to be devoted to a particular task and for how many days. Use a planner to mark the important dates against the set deadlines (Management Study Guide). Delegation of responsibilities: Learn to say NO at workplace. Dont do everything on your own. There are other people as well. One should not accept something which he knows is difficult for him. The roles and responsibilities must be delegated as per interest and specialization of employees for them to finish tasks within deadlines. A person who does not have knowledge about something needs more time than someone who knows the work well (Management Study Guide). Prioritizing Tasks Prioritize the tasks as per their importance and urgency. Know the difference between important and urgent work. Identify which tasks should be done within a day, which all should be done within a month and so on. Tasks which are most important should be done earlier (Management Study Guide). Spending the right time on right activity: Develop the habit of doing the right thing at the right time. Work done at the wrong time is not of much use. Dont waste a complete day on something which can be done in an hour or so. Also keep some time separate for your personal calls or checking updates on Facebook or Twitter. After all human being is not a machine (Management Study Guide). Organized Avoid keeping stacks of file and heaps of paper at your workstation. Throw what all you dont need. Put important documents in folders. Keep the files in their respective drawers with labels on top of each file. It saves time which goes on unnecessary searching (Management Study Guide). Dont misuse time Do not kill time by loitering or gossiping around. Concentrate on your work and finish assignments on time. Remember your organization is not paying you for playing games on computer or peeping into others cubicles. First complete your work and then do whatever you feel like doing. Dont wait till the last moment (Management Study Guide). Be Focussed One needs to be focused for effective time management. Develop  the habit of using planners, organizers, table top calendars for better time management. Set reminders on phones or your personal computers (Management Study Guide). Benefits of time management. Its normal to hear time management discussed in business circles; yet, it is a topic that can be of great benefit to everybody. Time is a challenge for all of us, whether were business people, workers, students or stay at home moms or dads. There seems to be less time in todays world, and thats why its a lot more important to learn how to properly manage our time. In this article, we are going to be discussing a few key reasons why time management is so important (Marie, 2012). A big benefit of time management is just how that it boosts your productivity. It is something that almost everybody hopes to be able to do. Seldom do you hear of individuals who feel that theyve got adequate time to do the things they need and wish to do. In lots of instances, the problem is not not enough time but rather the fact that you do not have an efficient way of managing your time. Time management shows you how to set priorities, and to focus on how much time youre wasting every day. The idea is not really to put yourself under more pressure to try and do more, but to utilize your time more wisely so you appear to have more of it (Marie, 2012). One positive advantage of time management is decreased levels of stress. Not having enough time is one of the main reasons we experience stress. Think about how tense you feel if you are worrying about being late for a scheduled visit or if youre stuck in traffic. These issues relate to time, and if you have this type of situation often you could probably benefit from some training in time management. Learning how to control schedule so that overwhelmed us and become an issue indicates that you are supervising your time efficiently. We often believe that the solution to our problems is doing things faster, but it could be even better and more relaxing if we learn how to manage our time better (Marie, 2012). Time management doesnt just include boosting your productivity and  efficiency; you also want to feel more pleasure and a better quality of life. Time is an important component of life and so we feel better about our lives when we have the ability to control our time. Conversely, feeling that were running out of time can create an overall feeling that we arent good in some part of life. Those who are genuinely successful are aware that time management is a crucial skill they have to get good at. It could be the one determining factor that lets you live in the moment and appreciate your life instead of feeling that time is a merciless boss (Marie, 2012). Time management is very significant in our present times, even more so than in previous decades. Existing technology allows us to do things faster than before and yet we feel forced to continually increase the pace. As an example, we continue to have difficulty keeping track of the large number of available information even with computers and other gadgets that are extremely powerful. Time management is the component that can give us a sense of control over time so we can quit rushing and loosen up (Marie, 2012).

India and imperialism: A developing country

India and imperialism: A developing country India is still a developing country because of imperialism. India was imperialized by British in the late 1700s and the early 1800s till 1947 until it gained independence or communism. The British started expanding with the help of the British East India Company. The British expanded their rule over India. India at that time was one the richest countries in the world. They were rich because they had the most expensive diamond in the World, Kohinoor Diamond, at that time India had very less poverty and little corruption as well. The British took the Kohinoor Diamond, and have it now in a museum in United Kingdom. The United Kingdom is developed because of our (Indians) diamond and not because of their own efforts. After the British rulers were force to leave India in the year 1947, India became a country among countries with the highest poverty and corruption. India was considered well developed before the British expanded their rule. However from 1947, till today it is considered dev eloping. Also, the British leaders led to a separation of a major sector of India, Pakistan. India and Pakistan were separated because of the British. The British not only separated India and Pakistan, it separated many parts of India from India. A good example of this is Jammu and Kashmir. Till today India and Pakistan are in a state of a cold war to decide that which part does Jammu and Kashmir belong to. The people from Jammu and Kashmir are tired of the war between India and Pakistan and want to be known as an independent country. The British separated thousands of Indians from each other. The British broke India from one large country to a large number of small countries. India is still a developing country because of Imperialism and this has an impact on me. I am actually from Sind, which now is a part of Pakistan. After the separation of India and Pakistan, I do not know whether I am an Indian of Pakistani. I just know I am a Sindhi. However, now I have become a part of India. Earlier I was considered to be a Pakistani Indian and now I am considered as a Hindu Indian. The British Imperialism has an indirect impact on me. The British imperialism increased poverty and corruption in my country and until these two factors are reduced or eliminated, India will not be developed. My families back in home town know exactly what the poverty is, and when I go back to India it is difficult for me to face them. The British has made it difficult for me to face my own family members. It is difficult to decide whether the British had thought that there imperialism would affect India for so long. The result of the British imperialism, after they left was that my fa mily shifted to Dubai, they thought staying in India would be difficult. Staying in my own country is difficult? Why? How is it my country if I cannot stay in it? These are some unanswered questions left for me to find answers for, and these questions have been raised only because of the existence of the British Empire in India. Whenever I go to India, looking at the people craving for money for food and water is so difficult, that sometimes I do not want to go back to my own country. The country which any human belongs to is usually the first choice a person wants to spend vacations at. But some Indians like me staying in Dubai, do not want to go back to our own country because it is difficult to face the people out there. The Persepolis, by Marjane Satrapi she gives reasons for Iran being a developing country because of imperialism. In the story Marjane a citizen of Iran which was under the imperialism of the Shahs and the Islamic republic represents the thousands of other citizens of Iran. The Iranian Revolution has led to the deaths of thousands of people. In the story, Marjane had to leave her own country, her own parents because she had no freedom of life. Marjane represents many Iranians who had to leave their own country because they wanted to live their lives themselves and not on the orders of others. Marjane was separated from her parents at a very young age to complete education. Usually, many students leave their parents by choice for higher education (University), while Marjane had to leave her parents by force for school. The Iranian revolution keeps Iran a developing country. A country is considered developed only if they have a maintained GDP, a developed infrastructure, and low unemplo yment levels. Iran lacks these qualities to an extent because of imperialism and hence still considered a developing country. As Marjane by the end of the Movie leaves her own country again because of imperialism, she shows that her own country could be considered hers due to the Iranian Revolution. The rules over there changed after Saddam overtook Iran. One of the most important rules that affected women and Marjane was, The veil is synonymous of freedom; a worthy woman must cover herself from the eyes of a man (Satrapi). This symbolizes many rules imposed on the Iranians which they did not want to agree to. However they had no freedom of choice. These things show how Iran is still under a developed country as a victim of imperialism. Both Iran and India are developing countries because of imperialism and affect the lives of many human beings including me. My father came to Dubai because my grandfather thought it is safe for him to study here rather than in India (his own country) because of British Imperialism, exactly how Marjane had to leave to Paris, for studies due to Iranian revolution. Going back to India for me is sometimes difficult because I cannot face those relatives of mine who lost their family members during the British Revolution. Exactly like by the end of the movie: The one day, the time to leave had come (Satrapi), Marjane leaves to France; similar to my dad leaving for Dubai from India and hence I am an Indian living in Dubai. The impact of imperialism might not be intentional by British but it has affected me similar to the impact of imperialism by Shah and Saddam on Iran. My father came to Dubai, though it was not his choice. I do not know what my life would have been if I had been grown up i n India. I sometimes do not feel like an Indian, because the problems faced by Indians living in India are comparatively more than the problems faced by them and hence I do not find myself to be capable of living in India. India is still a developing country and it is a fact which is difficult for me to face, while the Indians in India have accepted this fact and therefore are capable of living in India. When I go to India for vacations it is difficult for me to see people on the road, because of poverty. Here in Dubai when I hear about the corrupted ministers I feel angry and cannot do anything about it. As India is a developing country, Iran as shown in the movie Persepolis is also a developing country because of imperialism. Imperialism affects many people indirectly. Many people including me know the effects of imperialism, and the biggest drawback of imperialism is that it the imperialized country a lot of time and a much higher effort to develop. Both Marjane and I know the effects of imperialism. The only difference is that Marjane has expressed it through Persepolis and I through this essay. Work Cited: Satrapi, Marjane. Persepolis (2007) IMDb. The Internet Movie Database (IMDb). Web. 17 Dec. 2010. . Politics Among Nations: The Struggle for power and peace Politics Among Nations: The Struggle for power and peace In 1948 a German called Hans J Morgenthau wrote a book called, Politics Among Nations: The Struggle for power and peace. This was book was to become the bedrock of American foreign policy for much of the cold war years (1945-1991). Morgenthau was also very critical of American foreign policy, especially the war in Vietnam and viewed it as very simplistic, The statesman must think in terms of the national interest conceived as power among other powers. The popular mind, unaware of the fine distractions of the statesmans thinking, reasons more often than not in the simple moralistic and legalistic terms of absolute good and evil. (Morgenthau, 1978, p13). Morgenthau died in 1980, a supporter of his ideas called John J Mearsheimer has stated that, he would have regarded the neo-conservatives adventure in Iraq as equally flawed. (Mearsheimer, 2005). Mearsheimer also goes on to say that, almost all realists in the US- except Henry Kissinger- opposed the war in Iraq. (Mearsheimer, 2005). Th is highlights that most of the realists are collectively combined in their idea of thought. Realist influence in US foreign policy really started to take hold during the presidencies of John F Kennedy and Lyndon B Johnston and peaked during the Vietnam War. The main idea of the Vietnam War was to contain and defeat the communist threat in South East Asia, this very similar to George W. Bush Jnrs idea of containing and defeating terrorism in Iraq and stopping the spread of weapons of mass destruction. By the end of both wars the neoconservative and realist paradigms were in peaces due to the disastrous outcomes. Hans J Morgenthau identified six key principles of a Realist foreign policy in his book Politics among Nations: The Struggle for Power and Peace. (Morgenthau, 1978,4- p15). 1) Politics is governed by objective laws that have their roots in human nature. This means that realists try and make a paradigm that can be split between the truth and opinion we can emphasise with politicians and say what course of action they should take. 2) Interest is defined in terms of power. This is the primary function of politics. Countries have interests in many parts of the world. We do not ask what motivates a country in terms of foreign politics, we question how politicians go about achieving those interests. All countries are different and so some will behave differently to others, they might be predictable or unpredictable. Morgenthau argues in his book that predictable foreign policy can be good because it lessens risks taken and broadens the benefits of policies because that is politically successful. 3) Interest defined as power is an objective category which is universally valid but whose meaning can change. Morgenthau has described power as strength to rule people and keep control of that strength. 4) Universal moral principles cannot be applied to the actions of states in the abstract; the circumstances of time of time and place must be considered. The states continuation is the primary objective of any government. Any other course of politics will be judged by the actions taken. 5) The moral laws that govern the universe are distinct for the moral of anyone nation 6) The difference between political realism and other schools is real and profound. Realism is reliant on human nature. A man who only has one objective is dangerous because that is what he strives to achieve. But to further develop realism as a theory this man must not be included into other aspects of realism as a theory. The Chapters in this dissertation discuss these six principles and in the conclusion each principle will be analysed and summarised to give an evaluation of the foreign policy theory, portraying ways how a realist foreign policy approach is and is not a suitable way to determine foreign policy. Chapter One- How can realism be defined Realism uses the state as the primary actor in world politics. Its main achievement is that since the purpose of the state is national survival in a hostile environment the acquisition of power is the proper, rational and inevitable goal of foreign policy. Thus foreign politics can be defined as a struggle between power maximising states in a chaotic environment. Hence realism is sometimes referred to as the power politics school of thought. Although this policy does not offer adequate explanations for US foreign policy towards rogue states, states whose behaviour has the potential to alter external security environment in a negative way for the US. As James Feron argues the theory cant explain why, a state chooses bad or foolish foreign policies. (Feron, 1998, p291) These theories do not tell us why the US does not balance against some threats. Concepts of self -help and sovereignty become integral parts of the realist view of global affairs. Since all states seek to maximise power in such a lawless world, realism emphasises the prevalent nature of conflict and competition in world politics. This in turn validates the acquisition of military capabilities by states, sufficient at least to deter attacks in a dangerous and uncertain world. Acceptance of the constant risk of conflict does not mean that the threat of conflict should go unchecked, since this would threaten the whole concept of the state. A technique utilised by realists in managing conflicts is through the balance of power. For example this can be seen throughout the cold war with the build-up of arms and the desire to build a bigger military capability to ensure that the balance of power was held between the USA USSR. This case illustrates that power and the role power has is a major influence in international politics. This underlines the realist paradigm that international relations is based upon a hierarchy, of which it is based on power capabilities, where the principle of equality between states is non-existent since states vary in their abilities to project power. Weaker states are usually taken advantage of by stronger states. An example of this can be seen with US political and economic embargo and sanctions placed on Cuba since 1959, this the best example of a long term attempt at trying to bring about political change in a country. Chapter Two- Poltics is governed by objective laws that have their roots in human nature Morgenthaus first principle indicated that politics is governed by the rule of law and that this can be found in human nature. Realists argue that the rule of politics must make a clear cut choice between the fact and fiction that has to be supported by reasonable debate and evidence and it must not corrupt itself by the objective desires of politicians. An example for this can be found in the US decision to go to war with Iraq in 2003. The Bush administration clearly corrupted itself in looking for evidence and reasons to invade Iraq, and in doing so produced false reasons and intelligence to support their theory that Iraq was harbouring terrorists and manufacturing weapons of mass destruction. This idea is supported by Dr David Kays in his testimony to the Senate Armed Services Committee. Dr Kay stated We have not found at this point actual weapons, David Kays report to Congress went further to say, It does not mean weve concluded there are no actual weapons. (Kay 2004). In Bushs c ase for starting the war against Iraq realists would say that Bush failed to split the truth from opinion and therefore he gave a misleading reason for going to war. The war in Iraq, Bush had hoped for would be the domino theory that the Vietnam War was suppose to be. According to Mearsheimer Bush had hoped that by installing democracy in Iraq it would lead on to other nations having revolutions that would eventually implement a democratic government. This can be seen as going against Morgenthaus first principle But on the other hand we can see evidence of Morgenthaus teachings as a justification for the war in Iraq. Morgenthaus first principle of, Politics is governed by objective laws that have their roots in human nature. (Morgenthau, 1978, p4-15). This can be highlighted in foreign politics with states trying to compete against one another to be a global dominator this, objective law has its place in human nature. The USA has assumed its current position as global supper power since 1991 after the disintegration of the USSR. The attacks on the trade centres on 9th September 2001 marked a turning point in the way the USA thought it could wield its power. The USA felt as if its position as a leading super power was under attack and tried to regain its statue and position with the invasion of Iraq in 2003. But Morgenthau does not count on emotions to used as a reason to go to war which was used under the guise of the protecting innocent people from Saddams weapon of mass destruction threat. Morgenthau was enthusiastic to apply human nature and objective laws to his six principles. He used them to express his direct opposition to the war in Vietnam and how the US war there could not defended. He also highlights that the US government was, manipulating the public mind: by avoiding inconvenient facts, by disseminating misinformation under the guise of educating the public, by convening public meetings with a pro-war policy program, by enlisting speakers who share the freedom house agenda in consequence by making dissent unpopular and by suggesting the dissenters are unpatriotic. (Zimmer, 2011, p304). This can be seen in Morgenthaus first principle as it shows that politicians failure to split the truth and opinion can lead to a manipulation of action taken by those that are in charge and by the way they try to hold on to power. Leo Strauss, a neo conservative, seems to compliment Morgenthau on the way that human nature can effect decisions Strauss has indicated in his work that politicians tell noble lies to help society come to terms with the action there state is about to take. Strauss believed it was for politicians to assert powerful and inspiring myths everyone could believe in. They might not be true, but they were necessary illusions. One of these was religion and the order was the myth of the nation of America that was the idea that the country had a unique destiny to battle against the forces of evil throughout the world. (Curtis,2004) Chapter Three- Interest is defined in terms of power An ancient Greek philosopher called Thuydides is quoted as saying, the do what they have to do and the weak accept what they have to accept. (Strassler, 2008, p32). This can be highlighted in Morgenthaus second principle. Thuydides teaching can be a primary objective of a states acting to defend their interests. This is never more evident in American foreign policy towards Iraq. The war can be viewed as following a very clear cut path of realism rather than neo-conservatism. It can be argued that when a super power is on the path to war there is no state or international organisation that can stop it, for example the USSRs invasion and occupation of Afghanistan 1979-1989. This is most certainly the case with Iraq despite various protests to the war across the globe. In the wake of terrorist attacks on the 9th September 2001support for the war in Iraq was running high due to the information and evidence that was being provided by the Bush administration to the public. The war then began to echo that of Vietnam as American became bogged down in fighting insurgents and the death toll began to rise. This is evident in a Gallup poll (figure A), Iraq war opposition (63%) is also notable because it is the highest mistake percentage Gallup has ever measured for an active war involving the USA- surpassing by two percentage points to 61% who said the Vietnam war was a mistake in May 1971. (Jones, Gallup, 2008) (figure A) (Jones, Gallup, 2008) http://media.gallup.com/poll/graphs/080423Iraq1_x7b3m0.gif In conjunction with Morgenthaus second principle, the USA felt it was in there national interest to guarantee safety to themselves by eliminating Saddam Hussein. This in turn it was hoped, might have a knock on effect to the rest of the Middle East. Despite only a handful of supporters and many opponents to it, the USA took Thuydides view to the war. This also highlighted Americas commitment to spreading democracy and therefore creating a global and peaceful environment for the world and the Middle East. Is second principle of Morgenthaus of Interest is defined in power, can be viewed in another way that the US was securing its interests in the short to long term. Many critics have argued that the US is securing is interests in the short to long term and that Iraq had to pay the price for that under the case that was peddled by the Bush administration. David Lieberfield has suggested that, in order to address why Iraq in particular was targeted, realism would also point to Iraqs geostrategic location which impinged on multiple security concerns of the US and to Iraqs unsurpassed oil reserves which it could deploy against US interests (Liebierfield, 2005, p4). From a realists perspective this can be seen as the primary goal, securing the USs interests and preventing the emergence of a hostile power, instead of the neo-conservative view promoting human rights and encouraging democratisation. There is further evidence that America was trying to protect its long terms interests in the oi l that is in Iraq was during a cabinet meeting with Bush, President Bushs Cabinet agreed in April 2001 that Iraq remains a destabilising influence to the flow of oil to international markets from the Middle East and because this is an unacceptable risk to the US military intervention is necessary. (Murphy, Evening Standard, 2003). This chapter has demonstrated that Morgenthaus second principle of. Interests is defined in terms of power has shown that states achieving and protecting their interests by using power to define them is ruthless, The assertation of American power after 9/11 was seen as a turning point as it highlighted to the world that American power was not in terminal decline, America sought to protect itself and its national interests by the use of force. (Harisch, Frank, Maull, 2011, p182). Beside what many critics of the war may perceive, Henry Kissinger has claimed that it has benefited the US in the long term. (Kissinger, 2011). Although morality was injected into the reasoning behind the war, Strauss have advised that this and is evident in Morgenthaus first principle. Morgenthau tries to express in his writings that morality and national interest should be kept apart when it come to foreign policy. Chapter Five- Interest defined as power is an objective category which is universally valid but whose meaning can change Morgenthaus fourth principle takes into consideration the concept that Interest defined as power is an objective category which is universally valid but whose meaning can change. (Morgenthau, 1978,4- p15). Morgenthau places emphasis on the defining of power, he expansively defines it as, anything that establishes and maintains control over man. (Morgenthau, 1978,4- p15). He also argues that meaning and definition of the nation state changes over time, while the realist indeed believes that interest is the perennial standard by which political action must be judged and directed the contemporary connection between interest and the nation state is a product of history and therefore is bound to disappear in the course of history. (Williams, Wright, Evans, 1993, p198). Realists dont assume that the world as we know it at the moment, which is divided into individual states, could be replaced by states based on a larger entity and being far from what we know now. Other thoughts of realism, which are different to Morgenthaus, ponder about how the current global state of affairs will change. Realists do accept that this change can be bought about by looking at how factors shaped the past and that similar factors could possible shape the future. But Williams, Wright and Evans argue that, realists cannot be persuaded that we can bring about a transformation by confronting a political reality that has its own laws with an abstract idea that refuses to take those laws into account. (Williams, Wright, Evans, 1993, p198). Realism is against the idea of pacification. Realists support the theory that appeasement doesnt work by using Hitler as an example. The bush administration took a standing point with the realist perspective when it came to foreign policy with Iraq. The policy that was taken against Iraq, has been justified by Richard Perle, the continental power wanted until after Hitler invaded Poland in 1939 and America waited until after September 11th to go after Osama Bin Laden. Hitlers self declared ambitions and military build up like, like Bin Ladens were under constant scrutiny long before the acts of aggression to which a response became unavoidable. Both could have been stopped by a relatively modest well timed pre-emption. (Perle, The Telegraph, 2002). Perle goes on further to stress that, what risk do we run if Saddam remains in power ad continues to build his arsenal of chemical and biological weapons ? what dangers would follow his acquisition of nuclear weapons. We cannot know for su re. But on which side would it be better to be on? How would a decision to do nothing now and hope for best, look when Saddam has nuclear weapons and he makes another run at Kuwait or succeeds Afghanistan as terrorist head quarters of the world. (Perle, The Telegraph, 2002). Perle is highlighting the American and continuing schools of realisms thought on appeasement a potential dangerous enemy. He is conforming to Morgenthaus third principle by applying, establishing and maintaining a certain level of control over Iraq and the people of Iraq. This highlights Morgenthaus third principle, interests defined as power is an objective category which is universally valid but the whole mean can change. Howard Feinberg has argued that, Power is anything that establishes and maintains the control of man over man, accordingly to Morgenthaus third principle his definition of power cover not only the intrinsic power of capability (physical violence or the threat thereof), which is all that Waltz recognises, but also that of contingent power (subtle psychological ties and mental control). National character morale and the quality of government are found by Morgenthau to be even the most important components of power, even more so than the intrinsic capabilities. (Feinberg, 1996). This highlights that power is control and that Morgenthaus third principle realises this. But as with America, Morgenthaus third principle has realised that power has its limitations to control as the US found concerning its support from different nations lead ing up to the Iraq war. The critic Kenneth Waltz has argued that American justification for the war is an attempt to convince the world that to go to war is just. But it is also a classic realist sign that of an attempt at trying to take control, through the power of reasoning. The urge to explain is not born out of idle curiosity alone. It is produced also, by the desire to control or at least a desire to know if control is possible. (Waltz, 1996, p15). Despite Morgenthaus third principle, realism does not take into account the climate in which foreign policy can be applied. An important part of the realist school of thought is the balance of power. The balance of power can be applied successfully to foreign policy the actions applied can also make the world co-operate more there is no nation state is trying to gain an upper hand. An example of this could be the peace that has existed between France and Germany since the end of the Second World War. Chapter Five- Universal moral principles cannot be applied to the actions of states in the abstract; the circumstances of time and place must be considered. Morgenthaus fourth principle argues that the school of realism realises that morals can play a part in the importance of taking a political action. It also recognises that there can be some friction created between those that want to apply those morals to a states actions and whether or not the application of those morals on a states action is successful or not. Realism fails to address any tension that may occur and it does not make clear any moral or political issues which may occur by a state acting as a leader. The state may try and make its own morals appear more appealing to other nations than they actually are. Hasting argues that Morgenthaus fourth principle advocates that some states may act even if the moral is indefensible or even morally wrong, relations between states as leaders must sometimes take actions considered morally wrong in order to best serve the interest of those to whom they are accountable. i.e the people. (Hastings, academia.edu). Morgenthau insists that realism can not apply morals to states actions, Political realism is aware of the moral significance of political action. It is also aware of the ineluctable tension between the moral command and the requirements of successful political action. And it is unwilling to gloss over and obliterate that tension and thus to obfuscate both the moral and the political issue by making it appear as though the stark facts of politics were morally more satisfying than they actually are, and the moral law less exacting than it actually is. (Myers, 2006, p14). Morgenthaus argument highlights the fact that the state has an obligation to continue function as one, and to protect its people that are within the state. According to Keaney, he argues that it is the in the intrinsic nature of the human actors who control the states that cause states to behave in the way they do. (Keaney, 2006, p4) . This suggests that there can be no morality in politics unless there is careful mana gement. If states actors do not take into consideration the results of their actions then this can risk upsetting the balance of power. Realism does come to the conclusion that any form of political action is bad despite states morals. This is due to an outcome that is going to be unfavourable to any actors involved despite any judgements passed on actions taken. An example of this can be US foreign policy in Iraq. The US actions in Iraq can be considered a clear reflection of Morgenthaus fourth principle. This because of the US taking a course of action that other states actors did not agreed with. This can be seen in figure B with a steady decrease in the popularity of America after the invasion of Iraq, the chart shows the opinions of Western European countries. In realist terms the primary objectives of the American government after the September 11th attacks was to gain a foothold in the Middle East that would give access to other parts of the world. Many saw the Americans actions as unfavourable and that prompted them to say that the American attack on Iraq was for its oil reserves. The Bush administration came to the conclusion that it would be better to invade Iraq and eradicate it of terrorism altogether rather than them hunt individual terrorists. Bush prior to the invasion of Iraq squarely pinned the blame for anti-Americanism onto the shoulders of Iraq and other dictatorships in the Middle East. This argument has been supported by Tom Lindberg and Suzanne Mossel, Given the links drawn by everyone from Osama bin Laden to President Bush between the Iraqi insurgency and the fight against al Qaeda, it becomes clear that anti-Americanism plays at least some role in motivating those who aid and abet the Iraqi insurgency with financing, shelter, and other forms of support. (Lindberg, Mossel, The Princeton Project of National Security, p13). (Figure B) Do Opinion of the United States you have a favorable or unfavorable view of the U.S.? Europe: Percent responding Favorable, all years measured COUNTRY 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 View trend for Britain on this question Britain 75 70 58 55 56 51 53 69 65 61 60 View trend for Bulgaria on this question Bulgaria 72 51 View trend for Czech Republic on this question Czech Republic 71 45 54 View trend for France on this question France 62 42 37 43 39 39 42 75 73 75 69 View trend for Germany on this question Germany 60 45 38 42 37 30 31 64 63 62 52 View trend for Greece on this question Greece 35 View trend for Italy on this question Italy 70 60 53 74 View trend for Lithuania on this question Lithuania 73 View trend for Netherlands on this question Netherlands 45 View trend for Poland on this question Poland 79 62 61 68 67 74 70 69 View trend for Russia on this question Russia 61 37 46 52 43 41 46 44 57 56 52 View trend for Slovakia on this question Slovakia 60 41 View trend for Spain on this question Spain 38 41 23 34 33 58 61 64 58 View trend for Sweden on this question Sweden 46 View trend for Ukraine on this question Ukraine 80 54 60 As Morgenthaus four principle reiterates, some actions taken are going to be unfavourable to others. For realists the invasion of the country was a logical, with the evidence given. This is because national security and the continuation of the state take priority above any other interest which maybe had even if the political decision is unfavourable. The US did perceive that Iran and Syria did pose a threat against the USA. But with the US having such a close force to these threats it could be in a better position to take action against one of the need was there. Bush, it could be argued was using a domino theory as exactly as was employed in Vietnam. Chapter Six- The moral laws that govern the universe are distinct for the moral of anyone nation

A Man For All Seasons Essays -- essays research papers

The 16th century was a time of political upheaval, a time of conflict and corruption †¦ and a time of heroes? All these elements are visibly present in Bolt’s book, A Man for All Seasons. As I was reading this story I was thinking that it could probably apply to our day and age but that begged the question. Why did Robert Bolt decide to use a 16th century character rather than a present time period character and setting? I believe that Bolt chose this man and his era because there things that he liked abut the man, there was no shortage of conflict and the he was worthy of being a hero. He fits into one of the archetype heroes. These three things I will touch upon in my seminar and I hope that my ideas will prove to be informative and enlightening.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  One of the main reasons that Robert Bolt probably chose 16th century Thomas More as his hero for A Man for all Seasons was that he liked his personality. By that I mean that as Bolt wrote about More, he discovered more and more things that he found admirable about the man. At the outset, Robert Bolt was looking for a person who had a strong idea of who he is because this is what Bolt thinks is necessary to be a hero and this is exactly the type of man that Thomas More is. More saw in himself something that was his only and he was that it was something that allowed him to live life with confidence in himself. Only when he was denied that way of life was he able to accept his fate of death. Robert Bolt comments on this on page 13 of the preface. â€Å"†¦who nevertheless found something in himself without which life was valueless and when that was denied him, he was able to grasp his death.† This shows that Thomas knew that he had a sense of identity that no one else and he knew how important it was.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  After Robert Bolt selected this man, he began to write and realised many more things about Thomas More, which had drawn him to the 16th century character. One of the things that Bolt found out was More’s sense of self. He remarks on this on page 12 of the preface. â€Å"At any rate, Thomas More, as I wrote about him, became for me a man with an adamantine sense of his own self.† Robert Bolt went back to this era long past because of that trait but it was as he wrote about him that he discovered just how strong his sense of identity was.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  B... ...e me, Alice, that in silence is my safety under the law, but my silence must be absolute, it must extend to you.† (P56) He has found that so long he doesn’t give any indication to his opinion, hey cannot do anything to him legally. â€Å"MORE: There’ll be no trial, they have no case.† (P85) When he is asking his family to leave the country, he knows that he has protected himself to the best of his abilities. He should be safe except for the fact that he is dealing with a corrupt King who considers himself above the law.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Is there any way to do a play such as this in the 20th century? Evidently, Robert Bolt thought not and after analysing the story further, I have come to realise that he is right. The elements of the story, which were present in the 16th century, are not present in the 20th. There also may have been no one in this century that Robert Bolt liked enough and with the right characteristics. And of course, there is not enough conflict for one man to face as there was in that time. I believe that there are men (And women.) who would be able to face the problems that Thomas More had to face but we can all be thankful that there is no need for it.

Beta Carotene :: essays research papers

Beta Carotene Beta-carotene is a member of the carotenoid family and has over 500 relatives. Carotenoids are yellow-to-red pigments found in all green plant tissues and in some species of algae. So far 21 different carotenoids have been found in human blood. The most abundant ones are alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin. A molecule of alpha-carotene, beta- carotene, or cryptoxanthin can be split into two molecules of vitamin A in the body but the conversion of beta-carotene is by far the most effective. The six carotenoids are all antioxidants. They are very effective in neutralizing a highly reactive for of oxygen called singlet oxygen but also, to some extent, act to break up the chain reactions involved in lipid peroxidation. Numerous studies have shown that people who consume a diet rich in dark yellow orange vegetables (carrots) and dark green vegetables (broccoli) are much less likely to develop cancer and heart disease. It has also been established that people with low levels of beta-carotene in their blood have a higher incidence of heart disease and cancer, particularly lung cancer. The National Cancer Institute endorsed a study which found that women who consume lots of beta-carotene rich fruits and vegetables have a lower chance of getting cancer, including breast cancer. The Institution says that regularly eating lots of fruits and vegetables plays a key roll in cancer prevention, but whether the preventative action comes from beta-carotene or other nutrients in the produce has yet to be determined. For people who don't like eating their fruits and vegetables, a beta-carotene supplement pill was introduced into the market. Millions of vegetable hating Americans hoped that by taking a pill instead of eating vegetables, they could get the same rewards as their counterparts who enjoy the taste of fruits and vegetables. But officials at the National Cancer Institute released the results of two large studies designed to put the benefits of beta- carotene supplements to the test. One followed 22,071 doctors who for 12 years smokers had to be stopped prematurely because it seemed to me making the rate of death from cancer and heart disease worse. Taking a simple chemical supplement is not the same as eating a vegetable. Scientists suspect there are other natural ingredients that work with vitamins to promote health. It is also possible that a beta-carotene supplement derived from natural sources and formulated so as to preserve the normal carotene ratio in the blood may be of benefit for people at high risk for cancer and cardiovascular disease. This, however, needs to proven. So, until the remaining riddles in the carotene

islam :: essays research papers

In last couple of years I have studies very hard trying to reach to the truth. I have found an answer to my quest and I remembered how there are people who can go away from the path but just needs some guidance to reach it. As a Muslim I am enjoined to use eloquent, intelligent, and polite words to invite a fellow man to the one and only truth. So I am writing you to ask you to inquire if my writings and sayings have any feeling in your heart.... One time some questions came to my head. Is GOD present or science prevails GOD? Did the miracles preached in the Bible and Quran actually happened even though science claims otherwise? If it did happen, why were they shown to mankind? Why can't we have one now? Why are we here? How come things happen to us that are so unfair, such as poverty, hatred, betrayal etc? Will there ever be an ultimate justice for all the wrongs that happen to us and or others? Or is this life it and the unfortunate people will always remain unhappy because there is no real justice? I needed to see something to make myself happy and not go down in despair. These are the questions I came to pondering. I needed to see something to make myself happy and not go down in utter loss. I asked that, if there is God please help me see the light and make me become a firm believer and not just a blind believer. I wanted to use logic and reason to believe. Thanks to God, the most compassionate and merciful, out of His infinite mercy he let me get some light. Now I want to share the light with you so no matter what happens to you in this world you will never despair or lose hope ever again because you will be guided by the only eternal truth and stay happy in this world and in the hereafter. Then when I was searching for some answers I found a website. www.submission.org/miracle.html It assured me of GOD and explained his miracles. I am ordered to preach the religion of God and do so as the way He showed. It all started with a single verse [74:30]; â€Å"Over it are 19†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ ------Do not argue with the people of the scripture (Jews, Christians, and Muslims) except in the nicest possible manner - unless they transgress - and say, "We believe in what was revealed to us and in what was revealed to you, and our god and your god is one and the same; to Him we are submitters.

The Lost Symbol Chapter 110-112

CHAPTER 110 Director Sato stood alone in the study, waiting while the CIA satellite-imaging division processed her request. One of the luxuries of working in the D.C. area was the satellite coverage. With luck, one of them might have been properly positioned to get photos of this home tonight . . . possibly capturing a vehicle leaving the place in the last half hour. â€Å"Sorry, ma'am,† the satellite technician said. â€Å"No coverage of those coordinates tonight. Do you want to make a reposition request?† â€Å"No thanks. Too late.† She hung up. Sato exhaled, now having no idea how they would figure out where their target had gone. She walked out to the foyer, where her men had bagged Agent Hartmann's body and were carrying it toward the chopper. Sato had ordered Agent Simkins to gather his men and prepare for the return to Langley, but Simkins was in the living room on his hands and knees. He looked like he was ill. â€Å"You okay?† He glanced up, an odd look on his face. â€Å"Did you see this?† He pointed at the living-room floor. Sato came over and looked down at the plush carpet. She shook her head, seeing nothing. â€Å"Crouch down,† Simkins said. â€Å"Look at the nap of the carpet.† She did. After a moment, she saw it. The fibers of the carpet looked like they had been mashed down . . . depressed along two straight lines as if the wheels of something heavy had been rolled across the room. â€Å"The strange thing,† Simkins said, â€Å"is where the tracks go.† He pointed. Sato's gaze followed the faint parallel lines across the living-room carpet. The tracks seemed to disappear beneath a large floor-to-ceiling painting that hung beside the fireplace. What in the world? Simkins walked over to the painting and tried to lift it down from the wall. It didn't budge. â€Å"It's fixed,† he said, now running his fingers around the edges. â€Å"Hold on, there's something underneath . . .† His finger hit a small lever beneath the bottom edge, and something clicked. Sato stepped forward as Simkins pushed the frame and the entire painting rotated slowly on its center, like a revolving door. He raised his flashlight and shined it into the dark space beyond. Sato's eyes narrowed. Here we go. At the end of a short corridor stood a heavy metal door. The memories that had billowed through the blackness of Langdon's mind had come and gone. In their wake, a trail of red-hot sparks was swirling, along with the same eerie, distant whisper. Verbum significatium . . . Verbum omnificum . . . Verbum perdo. The chanting continued like the drone of voices in a medieval canticle. Verbum significatium . . . Verbum omnificum. The words now tumbled through the empty void, fresh voices echoing all around him. Apocalypsis . . . Franklin . . . Apocalypsis . . . Verbum . . . Apocalypsis . . . Without warning, a mournful bell began tolling somewhere in the distance. The bell rang on and on, growing louder. It tolled more urgently now, as if hoping Langdon would understand, as if urging his mind to follow. CHAPTER 111 The tolling bell in the clock tower rang for three full minutes, rattling the crystal chandelier that hung above Langdon's head. Decades ago, he had attended lectures in this well-loved assembly hall at Phillips Exeter Academy. Today, however, he was here to listen to a dear friend address the student body. As the lights dimmed, Langdon took a seat against the back wall, beneath a pantheon of headmaster portraits. A hush fell across the crowd. In total darkness, a tall, shadowy figure crossed the stage and took the podium. â€Å"Good morning,† the faceless voice whispered into the microphone. Everyone sat up, straining to see who was addressing them. A slide projector flashed to life, revealing a faded sepia photograph–a dramatic castle with a red sandstone facade, high square towers, and Gothic embellishments. The shadow spoke again. â€Å"Who can tell me where this is?† â€Å"England!† a girl declared in the darkness. â€Å"This facade is a blend of early Gothic and late Romanesque, making this the quintessential Norman castle and placing it in England at about the twelfth century.† â€Å"Wow,† the faceless voice replied. â€Å"Someone knows her architecture.† Quiet groans all around. â€Å"Unfortunately,† the shadow added, â€Å"you missed by three thousand miles and half a millennium.† The room perked up. The projector now flashed a full-color, modern photo of the same castle from a different angle. The castle's Seneca Creek sandstone towers dominated the foreground, but in the background, startlingly close, stood the majestic, white, columned dome of the U.S. Capitol Building. â€Å"Hold on!† the girl exclaimed. â€Å"There's a Norman castle in D.C.?!† â€Å"Since 1855,† the voice replied. â€Å"Which is when this next photo was taken.† A new slide appeared–a black-and-white interior shot, depicting a massive vaulted ballroom, furnished with animal skeletons, scientific display cases, glass jars with biological samples, archaeological artifacts, and plaster casts of prehistoric reptiles. â€Å"This wondrous castle,† the voice said, â€Å"was America's first real science museum. It was a gift to America from a wealthy British scientist who, like our forefathers, believed our fledgling country could become the land of enlightenment. He bequeathed to our forefathers a massive fortune and asked them to build at the core of our nation `an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.' † He paused a long moment. â€Å"Who can tell me the name of this generous scientist?† A timid voice in front ventured, â€Å"James Smithson?† A whisper of recognition rippled through the crowd. â€Å"Smithson indeed,† the man on stage replied. Peter Solomon now stepped into the light, his gray eyes flashing playfully. â€Å"Good morning. My name is Peter Solomon, and I am secretary of the Smithsonian Institution.† The students broke into wild applause. In the shadows, Langdon watched with admiration as Peter captivated the young minds with a photographic tour of the Smithsonian Institution's early history. The show began with Smithsonian Castle, its basement science labs, corridors lined with exhibits, a salon full of mollusks, scientists who called themselves â€Å"the curators of crustaceans,† and even an old photo of the castle's two most popular residents–a pair of now-deceased owls named Diffusion and Increase. The half-hour slide show ended with an impressive satellite photo of the National Mall, now lined with enormous Smithsonian museums. â€Å"As I said when I began,† Solomon stated in conclusion, â€Å"James Smithson and our forefathers envisioned our great country to be a land of enlightenment. I believe today they would be proud. Their great Smithsonian Institution stands as a symbol of science and knowledge at the very core of America. It is a living, breathing, working tribute to our forefathers' dream for America–a country founded on the principles of knowledge, wisdom, and science.† Solomon clicked off the slides to an energetic round of applause. The houselights came up, along with dozens of eager hands with questions. Solomon called on a small red-haired boy in the middle. â€Å"Mr. Solomon?† the boy said, sounding puzzled. â€Å"You said our forefathers fled the religious oppression of Europe to establish a country on the principles of scientific advancement.† â€Å"That's correct.† â€Å"But . . . I was under the impression our forefathers were devoutly religious men who founded America as a Christian nation.† Solomon smiled. â€Å"My friends, don't get me wrong, our forefathers were deeply religious men, but they were Deists–men who believed in God, but in a universal and open-minded way. The only religious ideal they put forth was religious freedom.† He pulled the microphone from the podium and strode out to the edge of the stage. â€Å"America's forefathers had a vision of a spiritually enlightened utopia, in which freedom of thought, education of the masses, and scientific advancement would replace the darkness of outdated religious superstition.† A blond girl in back raised her hand. â€Å"Yes?† â€Å"Sir,† the girl said, holding up her cell phone, â€Å"I've been researching you online, and Wikipedia says you're a prominent Freemason.† Solomon held up his Masonic ring. â€Å"I could have saved you the data charges.† The students laughed. â€Å"Yes, well,† the girl continued, hesitating, â€Å"you just mentioned `outdated religious superstition,' and it seems to me that if anyone is responsible for propagating outdated superstitions . . . it would be the Masons.† Solomon seemed unfazed. â€Å"Oh? How so?† â€Å"Well, I've read a lot about Masonry, and I know you've got a lot of strange ancient rituals and beliefs. This article online even says that Masons believe in the power of some kind of ancient magical wisdom . . . which can elevate man to the realm of the gods?† Everyone turned and stared at the girl as if she were nuts. â€Å"Actually,† Solomon said, â€Å"she's right.† The kids all spun around and faced front, eyes widening. Solomon suppressed a smile and asked the girl, â€Å"Does it offer any other Wiki-wisdom about this magical knowledge?† The girl looked uneasy now, but she began to read from the Web site. â€Å"`To ensure this powerful wisdom could not be used by the unworthy, the early adepts wrote down their knowledge in code . . . cloaking its potent truth in a metaphorical language of symbols, myth, and allegory. To this day, this encrypted wisdom is all around us . . . encoded in our mythology, our art, and the occult texts of the ages. Unfortunately, modern man has lost the ability to decipher this complex network of symbolism . . . and the great truth has been lost.'† Solomon waited. â€Å"That's all?† The girl shifted in her seat. â€Å"Actually, there is a little bit more.† â€Å"I should hope so. Please . . . tell us.† The girl looked hesitant, but she cleared her throat and continued. â€Å"`According to legend, the sages who encrypted the Ancient Mysteries long ago left behind a key of sorts . . . a password that could be used to unlock the encrypted secrets. This magical password–known as the verbum significatium–is said to hold the power to lift the darkness and unlock the Ancient Mysteries, opening them to all human understanding.' â€Å" Solomon smiled wistfully. â€Å"Ah, yes . . . the verbum significatium.† He stared into space for a moment and then lowered his eyes again to the blond girl. â€Å"And where is this wonderful word now?† The girl looked apprehensive, clearly wishing she had not challenged their guest speaker. She finished reading. † `Legend holds that the verbum significatium is buried deep underground, where it waits patiently for a pivotal moment in history . . . a moment when mankind can no longer survive without the truth, knowledge, and wisdom of the ages. At this dark crossroads, mankind will at last unearth the Word and herald in a wondrous new age of enlightenment.' â€Å" The girl turned off her phone and shrank down in her seat. After a long silence, another student raised his hand. â€Å"Mr. Solomon, you don't actually believe that, right?† Solomon smiled. â€Å"Why not? Our mythologies have a long tradition of magic words that provide insight and godlike powers. To this day, children still shout `abracadabra' in hopes of creating something out of nothing. Of course, we've all forgotten that this word is not a toy; it has roots in ancient Aramaic mysticism–Avrah KaDabra–meaning `I create as I speak.' â€Å" Silence. â€Å"But, sir,† the student now pressed, â€Å"surely you don't believe that a single word . . . this verbum significatium . . . whatever it is . . . has the power to unlock ancient wisdom . . . and bring about a worldwide enlightenment?† Peter Solomon's face revealed nothing. â€Å"My own beliefs should not concern you. What should concern you is that this prophecy of a coming enlightenment is echoed in virtually every faith and philosophical tradition on earth. Hindus call it the Krita Age, astrologers call it the Age of Aquarius, the Jews describe the coming of the Messiah, theosophists call it the New Age, cosmologists call it Harmonic Convergence and predict the actual date.† â€Å"December 21, 2012!† someone called. â€Å"Yes, unnervingly soon . . . if you're a believer in Mayan math.† Langdon chuckled, recalling how Solomon, ten years ago, had correctly predicted the current spate of television specials predicting that the year 2012 would mark the End of the World. â€Å"Timing aside,† Solomon said, â€Å"I find it wondrous to note that throughout history, all of mankind's disparate philosophies have all concurred on one thing–that a great enlightenment is coming. In every culture, in every era, in every corner of the world, the human dream has focused on the same exact concept–the coming apotheosis of man . . . the impending transformation of our human minds into their true potentiality.† He smiled. â€Å"What could possibly explain such a synchronicity of beliefs?† â€Å"Truth,† said a quiet voice in the crowd. Solomon wheeled. â€Å"Who said that?† The hand that went up belonged to a tiny Asian boy whose soft features suggested he might be Nepalese or Tibetan. â€Å"Maybe there is a universal truth embedded in everyone's soul. Maybe we all have the same story hiding inside, like a shared constant in our DNA. Maybe this collective truth is responsible for the similarity in all of our stories.† Solomon was beaming as he pressed his hands together and bowed reverently to the boy. â€Å"Thank you.† Everyone was quiet. â€Å"Truth,† Solomon said, addressing the room. â€Å"Truth has power. And if we all gravitate toward similar ideas, maybe we do so because those ideas are true . . . written deep within us. And when we hear the truth, even if we don't understand it, we feel that truth resonate within us . . . vibrating with our unconscious wisdom. Perhaps the truth is not learned by us, but rather, the truth is re-called . . . re-membered . . . re-cognized . . . as that which is already inside us.† The silence in the hall was complete. Solomon let it sit for a long moment, then quietly said, â€Å"In closing, I should warn you that unveiling the truth is never easy. Throughout history, every period of enlightenment has been accompanied by darkness, pushing in opposition. Such are the laws of nature and balance. And if we look at the darkness growing in the world today, we have to realize that this means there is equal light growing. We are on the verge of a truly great period of illumination, and all of us–all of you–are profoundly blessed to be living through this pivotal moment of history. Of all the people who have ever lived, in all the eras in history . . . we are in that narrow window of time during which we will bear witness to our ultimate renaissance. After millennia of darkness, we will see our sciences, our minds, and even our religions unveil the truth.† Solomon was about to get a hearty round of applause when he held up his hand for silence. â€Å"Miss?† He pointed directly to the contentious blond girl in back with the cell phone. â€Å"I know you and I didn't agree on much, but I want to thank you. Your passion is an important catalyst in the coming changes. Darkness feeds on apathy . . . and conviction is our most potent antidote. Keep studying your faith. Study the Bible.† He smiled. â€Å"Especially the final pages.† â€Å"The Apocalypse?† she said. â€Å"Absolutely. The Book of Revelation is a vibrant example of our shared truth. The last book of the Bible tells the identical story as countless other traditions. They all predict the coming unveiling of great wisdom.† Someone else said, â€Å"But isn't the Apocalypse about the end of the world? You know, the Antichrist, Armageddon, the final battle between good and evil?† Solomon chuckled. â€Å"Who here studies Greek?† Several hands went up. â€Å"What does the word apocalypse literally mean?† â€Å"It means,† one student began, and then paused as if surprised. â€Å"Apocalypse means `to unveil' . . . or `to reveal.' â€Å" Solomon gave the boy a nod of approval. â€Å"Exactly. The Apocalypse is literally a reveal-ation. The Book of Reveal-ation in the Bible predicts an unveiling of great truth and unimaginable wisdom. The Apocalypse is not the end of the world, but rather it is the end of the world as we know it. The prophecy of the Apocalypse is just one of the Bible's beautiful messages that has been distorted.† Solomon stepped to the front of the stage. â€Å"Believe me, the Apocalypse is coming . . . and it will be nothing like what we were taught.† High over his head, the bell began to toll. The students erupted into bewildered and thunderous applause. CHAPTER 112 Katherine Solomon was teetering on the edge of consciousness when she was jolted by the shock wave of a deafening explosion. Moments later, she smelled smoke. Her ears were ringing. There were muffled voices. Distant. Shouting. Footsteps. Suddenly she was breathing more clearly. The cloth had been pulled from her mouth. â€Å"You're safe,† a man's voice whispered. â€Å"Just hold on.† She expected the man to pull the needle out of her arm but instead he was yelling orders. â€Å"Bring the medical kit . . . attach an IV to the needle . . . infuse lactated Ringer's solution . . . get me a blood pressure.† As the man began checking her vital signs, he said, â€Å"Ms. Solomon, the person who did this to you . . . where did he go?† Katherine tried to speak, but she could not. â€Å"Ms. Solomon?† the voice repeated. â€Å"Where did he go?† Katherine tried to pry her eyes open, but she felt herself fading. â€Å"We need to know where he went,† the man urged. Katherine whispered three words in response, although she knew they made no sense. â€Å"The . . . sacred . . . mountain.† Director Sato stepped over the mangled steel door and descended a wooden ramp into the hidden basement. One of her agents met her at the bottom. â€Å"Director, I think you'll want to see this.† Sato followed the agent into a small room off the narrow hallway. The room was brightly lit and barren, except for a pile of clothing on the floor. She recognized Robert Langdon's tweed coat and loafers. Her agent pointed toward the far wall at a large, casketlike container. What in the world? Sato moved toward the container, seeing now that it was fed by a clear plastic pipe that ran through the wall. Warily, she approached the tank. Now she could see that it had a small slider on top. She reached down and slid the covering to one side, revealing a small portal-like window. Sato recoiled. Beneath the Plexiglas . . . floated the submerged, vacant face of Professor Robert Langdon. Light! The endless void in which Langdon hovered was suddenly filled by a blinding sun. Rays of white-hot light streamed across the blackness of space, burning into his mind. The light was everywhere. Suddenly, within the radiant cloud before him, a beautiful silhouette appeared. It was a face . . . blurry and indistinct . . . two eyes staring at him across the void. Streams of light surrounded the face, and Langdon wondered if he was looking into the face of God. Sato stared down into the tank, wondering if Professor Langdon had any idea what had happened. She doubted it. After all, disorientation was the entire purpose of this technology. Sensory-deprivation tanks had been around since the fifties and were still a popular getaway for wealthy New Age experimenters. â€Å"Floating,† as it was called, offered a transcendental back-to- the-womb experience . . . a kind of meditative aid that quieted brain activity by removing all sensory input–light, sound, touch, and even the pull of gravity. In traditional tanks, the person would float on his back in a hyperbuoyant saline solution that kept his face above the water so he could breathe. In recent years, however, these tanks had taken a quantum leap. Oxygenated perfluorocarbons. This new technology–known as Total Liquid Ventilation (TLV)–was so counterintuitive that few believed it existed. Breathable liquid. Liquid breathing had been a reality since 1966, when Leland C. Clark successfully kept alive a mouse that had been submerged for several hours in an oxygenated perfluorocarbon. In 1989, TLV technology made a dramatic appearance in the movie The Abyss, although few viewers realized that they were watching real science. Total Liquid Ventilation had been born of modern medicine's attempts to help premature babies breathe by returning them to the liquid-filled state of the womb. Human lungs, having spent nine months in utero, were no strangers to a liquid-filled state. Perfluorocarbons had once been too viscous to be fully breathable, but modern breakthroughs had made breathable liquids almost the consistency of water. The CIA's Directorate of Science and Technology–â€Å"the Wizards of Langley,† as they were known within the intelligence community–had worked extensively with oxygenated perfluorocarbons to develop technologies for the U.S. military. The navy's elite deep-ocean diving teams found that breathing oxygenated liquid, rather than the usual heliox or trimix, gave them the ability to dive to much greater depths without risk of pressure sickness. Similarly, NASA and the air force had learned that pilots equipped with a liquid breathing apparatus rather than a traditional oxygen tank could withstand far higher g-forces than usual because liquid spread the g-force more evenly throughout the internal organs than gas did. Sato had heard that there were now â€Å"extreme experience labs† where one could try these Total Liquid Ventilation tanks–â€Å"Meditation Machines,† as they were called. This particular tank had probably been installed for its owner's private experimentation, although the addition of heavy, lockable latches left little doubt in Sato's mind that this tank had also been used for darker applications . . . an interrogation technique with which the CIA was familiar. The infamous interrogation technique of water boarding was highly effective because the victim truly believed he was drowning. Sato knew of several classified operations in which sensory- deprivation tanks like these had been used to enhance that illusion to terrifying new levels. A victim submerged in breathable liquid could literally be â€Å"drowned.† The panic associated with the drowning experience usually made the victim unaware that the liquid he was breathing was slightly more viscous than water. When the liquid poured into his lungs, he would often black out from fear, and then awaken in the ultimate â€Å"solitary confinement.† Topical numbing agents, paralysis drugs, and hallucinogens were mixed with the warm oxygenated liquid to give the prisoner the sense he was entirely separated from his body. When his mind sent commands to move his limbs, nothing happened. The state of being â€Å"dead† was terrifying on its own, but the true disorientation came from the â€Å"rebirthing† process, which, with the aid of bright lights, cold air, and deafening noise, could be extremely traumatic and painful. After a handful of rebirths and subsequent drownings, the prisoner became so disorientated that he had no idea if he was alive or dead . . . and he would tell the interrogator absolutely anything. Sato wondered if she should wait for a medical team to extract Langdon, but she knew she didn't have time. I need to know what he knows. â€Å"Turn out the lights,† she said. â€Å"And find me some blankets.† The blinding sun had vanished. The face had also disappeared. The blackness had returned, but Langdon could now hear distant whispers echoing across the light-years of emptiness. Muffled voices . . . unintelligible words. There were vibrations now . . . as if the world were about to shake apart. Then it happened. Without warning, the universe was ripped in two. An enormous chasm opened in the void . . . as if space itself had ruptured at the seams. A grayish mist poured through the opening, and Langdon saw a terrifying sight. Disembodied hands were suddenly reaching for him, grabbing his body, trying to yank him out of his world. No! He tried to fight them off, but he had no arms . . . no fists. Or did he? Suddenly he felt his body materializing around his mind. His flesh had returned and it was being seized by powerful hands that were dragging him upward. No! Please! But it was too late. Pain racked his chest as the hands heaved him through the opening. His lungs felt like they were filled with sand. I can't breathe! He was suddenly on his back on the coldest, hardest surface he could imagine. Something was pressing on his chest, over and over, hard and painful. He was spewing out the warmth. I want to go back. He felt like he was a child being born from a womb. He was convulsing, coughing up liquid. He felt pain in his chest and neck. Excruciating pain. His throat was on fire. People were talking, trying to whisper, but it was deafening. His vision was blurred, and all he could see was muted shapes. His skin felt numb, like dead leather. His chest felt heavier now . . . pressure. I can't breathe! He was coughing up more liquid. An overwhelming gag reflex seized him, and he gasped inward. Cold air poured into his lungs, and he felt like a newborn taking his first breath on earth. This world was excruciating. All Langdon wanted was to return to the womb. Robert Langdon had no idea how much time had passed. He could feel now that he was lying on his side, wrapped in towels and blankets on a hard floor. A familiar face was gazing down at him . . . but the streams of glorious light were gone. The echoes of distant chanting still hung in his mind. Verbum significatium . . . Verbum omnificum . . . â€Å"Professor Langdon,† someone whispered. â€Å"Do you know where you are?† Langdon nodded weakly, still coughing. More important, he had begun to realize what was going on tonight.