Aids Vaccine by Merck and Company

1) What kind of vaccine was this, and how was it supposed to work? The vaccine known as V520 that was used in these studies cannot cause HIV infection because it contains only of viral materials which has synthetically produced snippets. Such vaccine is composed of adenovirus a common virus which normally causes upper respiratory infection these groups of virus infect the membranes tissue linings of the respiratory tract very common in adult and children, this infection include fever the most frequent symptoms is the inflammation of the pharynx or sore throat which is the sign of pharyngitis, inflammation of the nasal membranes, or a congested runny nose cough and swollen lymph nodes (gland). This infection sometimes leads to otitis media. It was first discovered as an agent causing upper respiratory infection in man, the human adenovirus comprise 41 distinct serotypes which cause a variety of ailments such as acute respiratory, ocular, gastrointestinal and urinary tract diseases ( Lattime et al, 2002). The adenovirus serotypes have an oncogenic possibility and are able to stimulate tumors in rodents cause a remarkable surge of interest in the study of the molecular biology of human adenoviruses. 2) How did the researchers deal with the dilemma of working with â€Å"control† human subjects? That is, did they warn the volunteers to protect themselves but obtain no significant data to test the vaccine? Or did they try to detect the vaccine’s efficacy while their participants were at risk of getting HIV infection? Did they find a solution? Scientist has made the vaccine by crafting the vaccine by genetically making alterations the common adenovirus which consist the part of HIV. They had hope that it will activate an immune response that would make recipients less to catch HIV or interrupt the inception of full-blown AIDS. It is expected from the vaccine by the scientist that the vaccine should not cause infection but to produce results that would make on the immunity of the recipients to made it easier for the to seize through a later exposure. Those volunteers who have received the least two doses of the said vaccine nineteen volunteers constricted HIV compared with the eleven persons which are given placebos. The dilemma of working with â€Å"control† human subjects is that they are more uncontrollable regarding their environment promptness for this long tow will never be achieved on a short span of time continued by eagerness for a precise invention. It requires enthusiastic and prepared society and numerous places which are both well continued and supple to acclimatize changes in procedure. This is one of the criteria that the mentioned experiment has lacked, in using large scale trials to be short of associates with fine characterized incidence and frequency rates of HIV infection Without the consistent of how much infection takes place in a community in a particular year, there will be no means of knowing whether an entrant vaccine will help lessen the pace of new infections. All this information must be collected sooner before large-scale test can start. It is also significant to know the dynamics of viral load and CD4 cell counts in HIV-infected people in the community where the tryout takes place. 3) How would the scientists determine efficacy? That is, when comparing the vaccinated volunteers with those who received a placebo, how big a difference between the vaccinated versus control groups would have been necessary to call the trial a success (say, at the 95% confidence level)? The AIDS vaccine trials moving headed for large trials are not probable to defend people from infection. In its place the vaccines are more likely to improve the series of HIV to AIDS if a vaccinated individual becomes infected. To resolve the vaccine’s impact, volunteers will necessitate to be followed over an extended period of time possibly their life span. This represents an important model shift which requires substantial learning of trial participants and communities in which test take place. AIDS vaccine researchers require making it certain that systems are in position to confirm that a constructive test stems from vaccine-induced antibodies, rather a definite illness. Moreover, looked-for are programs to fight bias against anyone enrolled in an AIDS vaccine test whether test HIV seropositive or not. The vaccine developed by Merck and Co. did not prevent HIV infection nor did it limit the severity of the disease, in those who become infected with HIV as a result of their own behaviors that exposed them to virus. The trial could have been a success and be effective if the researchers has been more cautious on recording who are the patients who get placebo and the real vaccine, and after the vaccine they should still monitor the activities of the volunteers especially if ever they still indulge in actions that will make them more prone to the mentioned disease. 4) In your opinion, what went wrong? Why did the trial fail? The project fails because most of the volunteers are heterosexual; they were not informed after the test if they have been given the placebo or the vaccine. Unexpected results from other AIDS studies had also happen, just like the trials of two vaginal microbicide gels to avoid HIV but have led to more infections for those who have really used the product than those who has received the placebos. Because of the long time and test done to perfect the test we can always expect failure, in a certain experiment the control human being is very important because this will serve as the basis on the experimental side which include the numerous amount of volunteers unmonitored after the vaccine like their extra curricular activities and the way they have their sexual relationship with the other sex, a close observation on their itinerary’s in their everyday living in the longer period of time. Work Cited Koff, W. C., Gust I. D. Kahn P. (2007). Aids Vaccine Development. Horizon Scientic Press. Hawthorme, F. (2003). The Merck Druggernaut: The Inside Story of a Pharmaceutical. Giant. John Wiley and Sons Lattime E.C., S.L. Gerson, (2002). Gene Therapy of Cancer. Elsevier Publishing      

Opinion and analysis essay on movie “Merchants of Cool” Essay

The movie, â€Å"The Merchants of Cool†, presented an in-depth look at the relationship between marketing giants and the individuality and â€Å"coolness† of teens today. I was surprised by some of the things shown in the movie; not that I was ignorant of the fierce marketing tactics used by companies to sell their product, but I was unaware of the extent that some are willing to go to. Sprite for instance, paid teenagers $50 each to come, dance, and have a good time at the launch party for its website. This party was filmed by MTV, and broadcast to millions of teens who were accordingly influenced by this new trend. To me, it seems that by attempting to discover cool trends before they flourish, with â€Å"cool hunting†, companies themselves eventually kill whatever trends they find. They are encouraging trends that may have never surfaced without intervention, and repressing others that they deemed unmarketable. The results of this craving for foreknowledge of the next trend are frequently unsavory, as is seen in the case of MTV’s ethnographic study, where researchers visited teens at their homes and attempted to analyze them as if their individuality could be synthesized and then marketed. From these studies, arose what â€Å"The Merchants of Cool† call the mook and the midriff. The mook is an extremely rude and immature character who completely disregards what others think of him and his actions. This character is portrayed by actors such as Tom Green and is seen in the show â€Å"Jackass†. The midriff is the character that media says a teenage girl should be; comfortable and extremely open with her sexuality. These â€Å"standards† that the media creates are obviously flawed. The movie also opened my eyes to a few astonishing facts, such as the fact that teens see 3,000 ads per day, 10 million by the time they’re 18. This mass exposure is obviously not beneficial, and in my opinion these media conglomerates, including companies such as Viacom and AOL Time Warner have, in a sense, taken over many teen’s lives, becoming dictators of every day in a teen’s life. These ads tell one how to dress to be cool, what kind of shampoo to use, and even what soda to drink to achieve the ultimate â€Å"cool factor†.

7.2. Did the British lose or did the Americans win the American Essay

7.2. Did the British lose or did the Americans win the American Revolution - Essay Example In my opinion, the Americans managed to win the revolution war by a whisker despite the low military strength and their poor learning. Several factors led to the British being defeated by the Americans. One of the reasons was that the Americans had a lot of support from the rest of the continent with the British having less of that. This is because they had tried to lure people to join them but they used force and restrictive laws and very few people joined them. This I think was a major boost to the side of the Americans in the revolution. The Americans had little resources than the British but they had much quicker access to them2. While Britain had to wait for almost three months, the Americans had immediate reach and this boosted their win and success of the revolution. Generally, the Americans saw the revolution more as a movement than it was a war. The support they had and the bad reputation of Britain all led to the defeat of Britain, but the major reason why they lost was because they tried to kill this revolution by

Minicase-10(Managerial Accounting) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Minicase-10(Managerial Accounting) - Essay Example Restricted stock is that part of equity of the company that is allotted or sold on a conditional basis in lieu of compensation to be paid or as a part of ESOP. The conditions associated with the restricted stock would be that the investor should hold the stock for certain period of time. Another condition would be that the Employee needs to stay with the company for certain period of time to be eligible to trade in the restricted stock. Companies need to disclose the Stock based employee compensation in the Notes to the financial statements. 1ESOPs should be accounted based on Fair value based method of accounting or intrinsic value based accounting. Compensation cost under the fair value based method is measured at the option grant date based on the value of the option and is recognized over the service period, which is usually the vesting period. Compensation under the intrinsic value based method is the excess, if any, of the quoted market price of the stock at grant date over the amount an employee must pay to acquire the stock. Restricted stock awarded to an employee is measured at the market price of the non-restricted stock on the grant date. However, if a restriction is imposed after the employee is vested with the stock, then restricted stock is accounted at the fair value of stock calculated after taking into account such restriction. The major advantage of ESOPs is that the compensation cost pertaining to ESOPs is not charged to profit and loss account but is just disclosed in the notes to the financial statements. This would enable the companies to show more profits. Now the proposed accounting change of FASB is to make the companies to charge ESOP to the Profit and loss account. This will reduce the profits of many companies and hence the price of the stock of the company, this would prevent these corporate managers from selling the ESOPs granted to them. Apple

What Is Buddhism Is It A Philosophy Or Religion Essay

What Is Buddhism Is It A Philosophy Or Religion - Essay Example This proliferation contributes to the emergence of different cultures while maintaining basic beliefs based on Buddha’s teachings. Studies indicate that the term Buddhism has its origin from the West as opposed to the practitioners. The different cultures provide a variety of interpretations of Buddhist teachings leading to vigorous debate on the practice. This necessitates the goal of this paper, which seeks to explore Buddhism from its philosophical and religious perspectives. As a religion, Buddhism involves basic religious aspects with regard to a godhead, creation theory, and faith. The godhead is manifested in Buddha, an Indian prince renowned for his wisdom while faith develops from the dependence on divine authority. Faith entails believing and upholding Buddha’s teachings. Buddhism indicates that there is no deity involved in creation of the world nor was there a beginning in the universe. In essence, there only exists a transformation of matter to energy in an endless cycle of coming to being while the concept of beginnings according to Buddhists exists only in the realm of illusion. These elements are borrowed from the predominant Brahmanical traditions that were the major religious practice in ancient India. It is important to note that Buddhism emerged from the conservative social force in ancient India having rejected some aspects of the dominating religion (Oslon 3). Buddhism principles are indicated as realistic and based on the reality of life, which can be seen. It focuses on real issues of light and a better society for all, which creates a niche in the world. The realistic nature of the tradition reveals dedication to a solitary life characterised by meditation and self-preservation. As such, Buddhism serves the spiritual needs of its followers by teaching how to experience freedom of the soul through meditation. Meditation allows one to find peace and enjoy a personal connection with the self, which serves to liberate needless suffering. Meditation in Buddhism is crucial undertaking geared towards the induction of a stable mental condition and equilibrium, as well as tranquillity. It exists in two forms; one where it is meant to develop mental concentration that leads to highest mystic states, where the mystic states have nothing to do with reality, truth, or nirvana, but are not purely Buddhist. Buddhist mediation facilitates discernment of the essence of things leading to comprehensive liberation of the mind and subsequent disclosure of the truth (Clark 378). It builds on mindfulness, awareness, vigilance, and observation, where it does not attempt to escape from reality, but is intertwined with daily life. This is in line with the body, feelings, the mind, and moral, as well as intellectual subjects. As a religion, Buddhism teaches tolerance that allows the existence of various spiritual forms under its benign protection. This facilitates diversity that meets challenges posed by other religious and ph ilosophical systems including science and technology. It is for this reason that Buddhism continues to flourish as a multi-faceted religious system, with its teaching being readily accepted in the world. When compared to other religious systems in the world, Buddhism reveals significant philosophical aspects that demand assessment as they are. Studies suggests that Buddhism is a metaphysic seeking to manifest a religion as opposed to other religious systems, which to seek the metaphysic aspect. The Buddha’s teachings (Dharma) are geared to evoke critical thinking among followers seeking enlightenment. In this light, Dharma consists of narratives with hidden meanings and vast symbolism of the intended message. This serves to encourage intellectual involvement to

Economic Concept and Its Implications in Our Life Research Paper

Economic Concept and Its Implications in Our Life - Research Paper Example Economics is useful in each and every aspect of life. Economics mainly deals with choice and decision making. Understanding of economics concepts is helpful for our lives and existence in today’s world and to understand the functions of the business world. Here we will discuss the economic concept and its implications in our life. The law of demand defines that when the price of product rises and every other thing remains constant then the quantity demand of the product will fall. It means when the price rises then the quantity demanded declines. Every other remains constant is known as â€Å"Ceteris Paribus† assumption. It means that wealth; income, population, preferences and price of other goods are constant and remain the same. Shifts in Demand or change in demand happens at the time when any one of the components of demand changes other than the price. It can also be said as a shift in demand occurs when the situation is not ceteris paribus. The Law of Supply defin es that when the price of the product rises and every other thing is constant (Ceteris Paribas situation) then the quantity of product supplied will also increase. It means that when the price of the product is increasing then the quantity of supply of the product is also increasing. Shifts in Supply or changes in supply happen when any one of the components of the supply changes other than the price. It means when ceteris paribus doesn’t occur. The concept of demand and supply is also applicable to our daily life. For example- Rice is the staple food in most of the Asian countries.

Genres Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Genres - Essay Example The other type is the narrative genre in which the type of plan or scheme is defined. The types of the narrative genre are comedy, tragedy, satire and romance. Here are the few examples of genres that are used in literature. Informational genre is aimed for teaching and other informational purposes rather than entertainment. Examples include The Reasons for Seasons, Lightening etc. Realistic genre is based on reality or gives illustration about things in literature or art as they really are. Examples include Drawing Lessons, Plain and Tall etc. Fantasy is an imaginative genre and is used especially when one dealing with unnatural or mystical characters or proceedings. Examples include The Book of Three, The Dark Is Rising etc. (Routman,2005) The study of genre has following advantages as it helps to categorize literature in a means that make it easy to understand the distinctive characteristics. This can help in relating different works of literature and offer a basis in evaluating

Religion and Americas Founding Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Religion and Americas Founding - Essay Example Things have greatly metamorphosed from how they were in the past. It is true that the Founding fathers were truthfully religious Christians. They did not only read the Bible, but also lived by it. Their children were also given Biblical names, and most of their communities were given names after the cities in the Holy land. The Christian Americans of the eighteenth century saw their rise and development in religious and mostly Biblical terms. Nevertheless, in the declaration of independence, they appealed to God as the creator, the highest judge of the whole world and the divine providence for legality and protection. In the Constitution of the United States of America, we find that there is nothing like separation of the church and the state. The separation of the church and the state’s purpose was not to create freedom from religion, but creation of freedom for religion (Rauchut 4-21). One book that was taken seriously by the Founding Fathers is the Holy Bible. The people of America have always been considering themselves as a Christian state, embracing all religions, as long as they all they all agreed with the traditional Christian-Judeo principles as they are stipulated in the Holy Bible. Even at present, up to about eighty-five percent of the people of America consider themselves Christians. ... It would also be to the shock of the Founding fathers to realize that their descendants, whereas preaching to the Christians who are Bible believing, are following a scheme that is dreamed up by the republic of Saudi Arabia, a nation that is aggressive against the Jews and Christians, as well as the Western Civilization. I believe the modern or present-day demands of the world have led to the separation of the church and state. This is because the world is currently considered to be a rotten place and the church cannot single-handedly clear up the mess. There are several things that happen in the world today such as terrorism that are not supported by the church; however, it cannot offer an appropriate solution, which makes it difficult for the church to be involved in such matters. Fighting terrorism requires an intensive fight with the suspected perpetrators, which leads to several deaths, and this cannot be supported b the church (Rauchut 6-19). Does morality depend on any Godsâ⠂¬â„¢ existence? I believe there is no apparent reason as to why people should believe a thing like that. If we actually believe in the presence of a God, even one that has most of the theism, philosophical and classicalism’s traditional qualities, then there are no specific moral values that can be derived from that premise. One major complaint regarding the issue of secularism is that belief in God and religion are the fundamentals of morality, a democratic society and justice. Here, the fundamental premise is that the only values that eventually matter are those that are inspirational, and they can only be understood and perceived via connection or relationship with divine and religious tradition. Religious and different kinds of theism have literally had decades of years

Seat belt Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Seat belt - Essay Example The UK government tries to enforce the seat belt policy which was first implemented in 1983 (BBC News, 2009). Seat belts have saved 35,000 lives in the UK in the past 25 years. In 2007, 1432 car occupants were killed in car accidents out of which 34% had not belted up (BBC News, 2009). Seat belts and child restraints are secondary safety devices designed to minimize and prevent injury to the car occupants when a crash occurs (FIA Foundation, 2009). They reduce the contact with the interior of the vehicle thereby reducing the severity of the injuries if it occurs. They also prevent the occupants from being ejected from the vehicle in addition to preventing injury to other occupants of the vehicle. Studies conducted throughout the world have shown conclusively that seat belts if worn properly can save lives. Usage of seat belts reduces the probability of being killed by 40-50% of the drivers and front seat passengers and by about 25% for the rear seat passengers (FIA Foundation, 2009). Seat belts have been found to be most effective in frontal impacts and in run-off-the-road crashes. However, even though the seat belts have been suitably designed and the law formulated and implemented, valuable lives are still lost as people ignore warnings. Wearing the seat belt can increase the chances of survival in a crash or reduce the likelihood of serious injury (National Accident Helpline, 2010) but most people do not pay heed to such warning especially for short journeys. Seat belts limit the forward motion of the occupant which slows down the occupant’s deceleration in a crash. This prevents the occupant’s ejection from the vehicle. Both drivers and passengers in the UK have to follow the national seat belt law (Hartman, 2012). If the car is equipped with seat belts the driver and the passengers both in the front and back seats have to wear the seat belts. If the passenger violates the law the passengers is ticketed and not the driver. However, the driver is

The Nature of God Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Nature of God - Essay Example Therefore, people that find it in their hearts to follow the nature of God will have progress in their lives. Hitler states that a person discovered that the nature of God is a wonderful notion. According to the nature of God, there are several laws that have been put in place. If a man wants to understand the nature of God, he must try to understand that the nature of God has various laws. The almighty has laws which should be fully obeyed to the latter (Hitler, Trevor-Roper and Weinberg, 234). Obeying these laws is a form of understanding the nature of God without questioning why the laws were instated. This will lead mankind into getting a better understanding the ways of almighty in all aspects. In essence, a man should strive to worship these laws as instated by the almighty. Apparently, Hitler states that these laws are revitalized by priests and leaders who exploit the feeling in people. Since a human has the notion that the laws should be observed, priests ensure the laws are followed to the latter. This is instigated by the fact that priests and the leaders threaten punishments on human beings for not observing these laws. Consequentially, a man is threatened by punishments, especially when the punishment is coming from the almighty. Therefore, men will strive to observe the laws that are stated by the nature of God. The nature of God can be understood by the fact that it offers refuge to all that seek refuge in the almighty. Hitler states that all people need refuge and protection. This is a strong statement that needs artistic evaluation on the type of refuge that a man seeks. A person does not have refuge in other men or any other place in the world. This leaves a single option in the world, which is the almighty. Therefore, the nature of the Lord is to offer refuge to the people that seek refuge (Hitler, Trevor-Roper and Weinberg 237). The nature of God, as stated by Hitler will offer consolation and help humans in time of unhappiness. Therefore, p eople that seek consolation should find it in the almighty as the nature of God states that God is the ultimate consolation. Nevertheless, Hitler shows contradiction as he states that Russians do not have God but they are not prevented from facing death. According to Hitler, the nature of God does not allow religion and socialism to exist as one. Therefore, they can never exist together. In the light of this statement, it is explicitly stated that religion will have to exist on its own. Apparently, it is openly seen that religion should not be mixed with other aspects in the world. This can be explained from the ancient prophets that were instated to explain the nature of God. The nature of God does not allow mixing religion with other aspects of the world as they are likely to affect religion. As such, religion should be left to exist on its own (Hitler, Trevor-Roper and Weinberg 245). This will enhance the growth of religion, which will bring better understanding in concerns to th e nature of God. Hitler continues to state that in the long run, the two will never exist at the same time. National Socialism is a different aspect that will never exist in religion. Therefore, there should be a discrepancy between the two as there will be no time in the world where the two will be mixed and exist as a single entity. This is not particularly the nature of God to bring together two entities that are insoluble. Therefore, a man must strive to observe this particular issue in the world. Though this seems like war, Hitler

Mary shellys frankenstein Essay Example for Free

Mary shellys frankenstein Essay Frankenstein was written in 1817 by Mary Shelley. Shelley was from a family of intellectuals and one of the most influential writers of the time and a big part of the Romantic movement. The book is about a man who strives to create the ultimate being, but creates something worse than he could have imagined. Right from the start we see that our main character, Victor Frankenstein, has a keen interest for Natural Philosophy. This only adds to his curiosity when his University professor, Mr Waldman, shows him his plans to create life. This curiosity; along with the fact that his mother died when he was young; drives him to carry out Professor Waldmans plans to create the ultimate being. The plans greatly help Victor in his venture to create life. They help him find out what he needs to do it. At this time in the scientific world, it was a time of progress and discovery. Scientists were only just starting to understand the concept of how the human body worked, so to transplant vital organs from one to another was a huge leap forward. Victor believes that if he creates life successfully his name will be put down in history and his memory will live on. By trying to create life, Victor was greatly challenging the accepted beliefs of the time. Organ transplants were unheard of, which is basically what Victor is doing. The scene I am writing about is at a crucial moment in the novel, as there are vast amounts of consequences to what Victor is doing. Because this scene is a vital part of the novel, Mary Shelley wants to crate a dramatic atmosphere. She accomplishes this through good use of language, detailed setting descriptions and in-depth descriptions of the characters actions. To create a dramatic atmosphere, Mary Shelley gives us a vivid image of the setting as she describes it in such detail. For example, in the first paragraph it is described as a dreary night in November. The word dreary makes the reader think of fog, when referring to the weather. this could be perceived as symbolism, representing mysteriousness, as you cant see whats ahead of you in fog. The significance of it being in November is great. This is because November is one of the months where the sun goes down early, and this contributes to the feeling of uncertainty, because darkness is associated with bad happenings. The rain is also described in this very paragraph. The rain pattered dismally against the panes. The words used to describe the rain falling are pattered dismally. This suggests that the rain is not coming down heavily, and has been coming down for some time with no intention of stopping. Dismally also suggests that Victor is tired of it raining as dismally is generally used when someone is bored of something that has been happening for a long period of time. It is also described as being one in the morning. The middle of the night. This is associated with bad happenings, and most people are asleep so there is no-one to come to Victors aid if anything bad should happen. This creates a tension filled atmosphere as he is completely alone. Victor Frankenstein, as well as being the main character, is the narrator. This helps the audience find out his feelings towards his creation. The way he describes it is as if it is something so ugly, yet beautiful as he has succeeded in creating life. For example, Victor describes his creation as having a shrivelled complexion. From this description we can tell that Victor feels his creation is ugly and that he is disgusted at what he has created. I say this because you dont describe someone beautiful as having a shrivelled complexion. Victor is disappointed, as he designed his creature to be beautiful, but now he describes it as a demoniacal corpse. Victors actions upon seeing his creature also show the reader his feelings towards it. For example, Victor runs away in horror, suggesting that he wants nothing to do with the creature and is basically disowning it. This is ironic, as later on in the novel, the creature goes after Victors friends and family because Victor disowned him. Victor also sits on the stairs, contemplating the ethics of what he has just done. These two actions show the reader that Victor, having created life, now regrets his decision and wants to put it right. He cant sleep because he is filled with regret and is afraid of what might happen as he has just abandoned what is technically his son. The creatures actions have a certain effect on the reader. Initially the creature cannot talk, so the reader has no idea what he is thinking, so when he approaches Victor it creates suspense as the reader doesnt know what will happen next. The creature reaches out and tries to speak, which is when Victor runs. As the creature is so big and scarred and cant communicate, it is immediately seen as evil. This impression turns out to be wrong as the creature is gentle and scared- he only turns evil when he is rejected by Victor and the family he has been watching. This rejection makes the reader have some sympathy towards the creature when he learns he is not wanted. To emphasise the horror or the creature, there is a reference to Dante in the last paragraph: even Dante could not have conceived. The audience would have been familiar with Dante and his work. Mainly his seven circles of hell in The Inferno. This familiarity the audience at the time had with Dante shocked them. Dante was seen as a bit eccentric and if he could not have thought of something so horrific, it must be extremely bad. The choices Mary Shelley made in language, description and setting help to create atmosphere as all the adjectives used are sinister, and help to create an evil atmosphere e. g. lifeless. As there is this evil atmosphere, the audience feel the tension as it seems like something bad is going to happen. It is this tension that makes this scene so crucial to the novel and so different from all the others. Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE Mary Shelley section.

The Poverty In Africa Economics Essay

The Poverty In Africa Economics Essay In recent years the international community has shown increasing concern with poverty in the developing world. At the Social Summit in Copenhagen, the issue was placed at the top of the agenda and more recently the Millennium Summit set a target to halve poverty by the year 2015. While the United Nations, including UNCTAD, had for many years drawn the attention of the international community to the need to address the plight of the poorest and the least developed countries. Despite resource rich African countries, its hardly possible to accept that Africa is poor. But the question remains, if they are not, why the vast majority of African countries are clustered at or near the bottom of the United Nations Human Development Index.While economic growth is considered essential for poverty reduction, it is also recognized that growth may not automatically trickle down to the poor. Thus, the current approach emphasizes policies that facilitate the access of the poor to human, physical and financial assets to improve their earning capacity While macroeconomic stability and structural reforms continue to be considered to hold the key to sustained and rapid growth, it is also recognized that stabilization and structural adjustment policies may exert a temporary adverse impact on the poor. Thus, it is advocated that such policies should be accompanied by safety nets and targeted spending programmes to mitigate their possible adverse consequences for poverty. Africa is not poor; it is poorly managed  [1]  This statement was made by Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of Liberia. She stated it in August 2009 during her interview with the BBC radio documentary series, to answer question in similar circumstances. It was aimed against corruption and she meant to assert that if corrupt officials mismanaged public funds or property, then countries are poor. But with good quality of government under the rule of law is already a fine predictive for wealth. Other key factor is the lack of technology, Africa is very rich with natural resources such as fertile soil, enough rain and sunshine for cultivation, raw materials, oil, gold and many other major resources but lacking ways of exploiting them. No advance technology or industrial infrastructure to channel these resources through real incentive to accelerate the development. Insufficient education is another significant factor contributing to poverty high level. It can never be overemphasized be cause education can make changes about everything. Today African children do not have access to education which is required to let them gain knowledge and skills, to equip them to have better ideas and opportunities for employment. Other correlated problems as well, for example, lack of skills and strong policies, and that is low economic performance with high inflation, let alone unproductive attitudes towards globalization. The trade situation is quite unfair in addition to tariffs and subsidies, which drive prices down and make it harder for African countries to sell agricultural goods at global markets. Still there should be a movement in the industrialized world to recognize this unfairness and get the system changed, though it is somewhat complex, economically to explain how it is going to happen. African politics are usually based on violence, instead of building and fix the future they destroy everything, and use natural resources for the short term gain of those in power. A nother problem is that African countries still trade with their colonial masters at a loss instead of trading with each other. poverty reduction strategies cannot succeed if they are not accompanied by policies to sustain rapid growth and improve income distribution, Why almost all fifty three African countries are considered as poor? Poverty has many dimensions and causes, and it is clear that different kinds of action are needed at different levels (international, regional, national and sub-national) if it is to be significantly reduced. Africa is the worlds second-largest and second most-populous continent, after Asia. Africa is the worlds poorest inhabited continent. Though parts of the continent have made significant gains over the last few years, of the 175 countries reviewed in the United Nations Human Development Report 2003, 25 African nations ranked lowest amongst the nations of the world. This is partly due to its turbulent history. The geo-historical situations of African people should be examined while addressing poverty. Same like inhabitants in others continents, the African people were and up to today are mostly dependent on agriculture, therefore they were needed to live in the regions where they were located nearby the river in Nile Valley, in the coasts of North and West Africa, along the Niger, in the eastern highlands and in South Africa. They were living in traditional rustic lifestyle and could manage their requirement by hunting and farming in the green areas during the history, but gradually due to tropical climate situation and high temperature in their living environment, decreasing the water recourses, increasing the number of people in living areas and reduction of their agricultural resources, because of weather fluctuations within the recent centuries, the problem of African people started. The impacts of climate change are likely to be considerable in tropical regions. Developing countries are generally considered more vulnerable to the effects of climate change than more developed countries, largely attributed to a low capacity to adapt in the developing world. Of the developing countries, many in Africa are seen as being the most vulnerable to climate variability and change. High levels of vulnerability and low adaptive capacity in the developing world have been linked to factors such as a high reliance on natural resources, limited ability to adapt financially and institutionally, low per capita GDP and high poverty, and a lack of safety nets. The challenges for development are considerable, not least because the impacts are complex and highly uncertain. Fighting for water and food made them busy with themselves so that they neglected to communicate with people who were living in other parts of the world. They didnt know how to sail and could not travel overseas and therefore they could not prepare their requirement by trading with other nations and therefore, they were isolated from the rest of the world in the recent centuries. Such isolation as well as the ignorance and illiteracy of African people, their fast growing population, their sectarian conflicts from one side and arrival of non African adventurers to this rich continent and starting the slavery were all imposed to the people who were not deserved and lead them to a new era of poverty. Africa is still grappling to undo a legacy dominated by trade with their former colonial rulers. For instance, Senegals biggest trading partner is France, while Gambia trades extensively with the United Kingdom.  [2]  Although Senegal surrounds Gambia, trade between the two neighbors is minimal. Worse enough the continents railways and roads often lead to ports rather than link countries across regions. Much dependency on aid and reluctant of solving problems doesnt help Africa to emerge out from being considered as poor continent. Lack of sufficient infrastructure More than two-thirds of countries in Sub-Saharan Africa are currently experiencing a debilitating power crisis. The crisis is the result of many factors: strong economic growth, which has in turn led to the rapid increase in electricity consumption and urbanization; and poor planning for boosting generation and distribution capacity and maintaining infrastructure. The human and economic consequences are significant. There is an urgent need to address the problems plaguing the power sector, but a large gap exists between infrastructure needs and the availability of resources. An estimated USD 40.8 billion a year in investments are needed for Africas power sector, but ODA and funding from the public sector are not sufficient to meet this need. Consequently, the private sector will need to play a significant role in closing the demand-resources gap by providing funds and expertise. The need for at least a basic level of infrastructure in Africa is quite critical in all sectors and because of its missing in %75 of African residential area, millions of lives are threatened every day for lack of clean water or safe sanitation. In recent years the continents development objectives are badly affected by poor infrastructure. There is very little investment made by developing countries in improving the infrastructure conditions in Africa and even most of this small quantity of investment (roughly two-thirds) have been focused in the telecommunications sector which has no relativity with other major sectors i.e. health care and education. Due to personal experience of my father in Nigeria as one of the richest African country, majority of people even in some big cities like Port Harcourt in river state which is considered as one of the richest oil production centers in Delta Niger, are suffering from lack of access to basic infrastructures like electricity, hygienic fr esh water piping network, sanitary and drainage systems, suitable domestic transportation and well constructed roads railway at their home. Political instability Although the leadership issue is considered as one of the major problems in the world but its horrible condition in many African states made their political situation quite instable. Most of the African governors are busy with their own business and hand in hand of foreigners are draining the public resources out in favor of their overseas partners. Majority of African leaders are dictating those policies which are just match with their own private and not the public interests. The consequence of such kind of leadership leads the African people to sectarian conflicts and creates Political instability for the country. In most cases the African leaders try to run the country by copying the modern western state systems at domestic level and neglect the tradition and culture of their own people. With such negligence, the political atmosphere in most African states is not well enough for safe investment and its level has been restricted to the sectors for washing out their resources in fa vor of western countries. As a result of political leadership of the current governors, the economic condition of African people has gone under dominant of prescribed economical policies of western companies which play a significant role in the deprivation of African populations of the essential key services in development. Some of political economists are in this belief that the foreign investors are not responsible for improvement of the living standards of the people in the regions where they make profits. Although this concept is commented by some others but even if there was no argue in this belief, no one may disagree with the role of African political leaders in organizing the consequence of their leadership and management on economic conditions in Africa which has obviously had serious affections in provision of essential services such as health, education and infrastructure and there is no doubt that in absence of these fundamental services, the productive potentiality of people in their own societies will be decreased and they go through deprivation and poverty more and more. Main effects of poverty in Africa and its consequences: Poverty can have a devastating effect, such as lack of food, improper healthcare; homelessness and lack of jobs all play a role in the effects of poverty.  [3]  A recorded number of people die each day in Africa due to extreme poverty. 14% of children in Sub Saharan African countries alone are estimated to be underweight, out of 28% of children who are underweight in all poorer nations of the world. And it will increase because of low progress in the development and miss the Millennium Development Goals target of halving the proportion of underweight children.  [4]  Food and water is in low supply because of nonexistent infrastructure. As a result, poverty effects can easily cause inability to develop, afford modern technology, provides basic services and access, mistrust of governments- leading to revolutions which will paralyze the governmental system and more rivalry over few resources. However, the significant consequences of poverty in Africa are more closely connected with uneven economic growth. More than a half of population lives in extreme poverty, which is defined as subsisting on less than $1 a day by the World Bank. The huge waste of human resources, others are mainly on human suffering and death, high mortality rate, epidemic diseases, high illiteracy, ignorance of problems and poor hygiene, water and sanitation. If the current trend of poverty continue, then no hope to alleviate the poverty Lack of sufficient health care and education In 2008 around 1.4 million people died from AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa and 1.9 million people became infected with HIV. Due to lack of standard levels of educations in little academic training, lack of medical centers and facilities in training of physicians, few number of hospitals, insufficient medicines and medical equipment, lack of a suitable nursing care and many other interrelated medical issues, result to a bad health condition in African countries. Although some activities have been done by International Health Organization under U.N. supervision but they can temporarily figure out the health problems of about %25 of Africans who are living in urban areas and the major remaining population of the continent who are living in rural areas and villages are almost deprived from this small medical services provided by international society. To sort out the Africans health and medical care, the three principle health system inputs should be seriously noted and provided by the global society. Training of human resources as the clinical and non-clinical staff who are responsible for delivering health services, is considered as one these three which requires a comprehensive programming and establishment of colleges and universities, forwarding the motivated skillful educated missions as well as the required tools and equipment. The budget elements of physical capital are considered as the third dependent direct principle in improvement of health care in Africa. In the absence of massively expanded prevention, treatment and care efforts, it is expected that the AIDS death toll in sub-Saharan Africa will continue to rise. This means the impact of the AIDS epidemic on these societies will be felt most strongly in the course of the next ten years and beyond. Its social and economic consequences are already widely felt, not only in the health sector but also in education, industry, agriculture, transport, human resources and the economy in general. The AIDS epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa threatens to devastate whole communities, rolling back decades of development progress. Political instability and Corruption Good governance alone will not end poverty, but we cannot significantly reduce poverty, especially within a human rights approach, without good governance. Good governance is necessary at all levels, from the global to the local, but it is also necessary to identify those levels of governance requiring special attention, and this may vary from country to country: it is not always the case that governance at the national level is the central problem as far as poverty alleviation is concerned. There are problems in Africa for several decades even after many countries in the continent went through transitions from colonialism to independence, is not a deniable fact. In terms of political instability in Africa, it is also undeniable that the continent has had some difficult moments during the last fifty years or so. But what is still unexplained in the many analyses that have been looking at events in Africa is the fact that in almost all the cases of political instability in Africa, it is evident that the major problem is leadership. In this context, Africa has seen its freedom heroes turn into dictators, while plunder of natural resources, politics of exclusion and deprivation to tilt the balance of power continues to dominate the public sphere. Moreover, these problems have been pointed out and fought gallantly by ordinary Africans who have over the years, expressed their discontent with regimes imposed upon them, through the complicity of the international community. Its strongly believed that most of the major problems in Africa are rooted in corruption of the leaders and governors who have sat on the throne of dictatorship and oppress their people and make them more miserable. Its quite obvious they never let the people have an acceptable standard of social rights for election of their nominated candidates as their leaders. Although its a long way and bumpy road to achieve their goal for making a democratic society but they have no chance and must go straight forward. They should pay its worth and pave the path toward democracy peacefully. In an actual democratic system, all decision of the governors will be checked, debated, revised and ultimately approved by the peoples representatives. The national recourses and assets will be managed to be spent for provision of vital and ordinary requirement of people like health care, training and infrastructural welfare. If you go through the governing systems in African countries, you will find an apparent frame of democratic system but in most cases, you will come to know that majority of the people have no chance to vote for the key policies in management of their country. The corrupted high officials have a direct control on all centers of political and economical power and never let them to be supervised by the peoples actual representatives. They have even enough influence in selection of the parliament members. We should never forget the significant role of western companies and investors in mastery of such dictators who have been elected and supported by them in a so called democratic way. How African countries can build solutions to solve those problems? The deepest challenge for countries in the poorest parts of the world, especially Africa, is governance. The African continent has been ravaged both by civil war and conflict and by rapacious leaders who have plundered the natural wealth of their nations. Corrupt rulers and their weak regimes have arguably been the single most important drag on African development. The steps are to focus on good governance, social responsibility and elimination of corruption. Developed their educational systems, their infrastructure, and their labor markets which will able them to exploit their resources in the global markets. Increase economic input on national income through the important exports of major resources such as oil, gold, raw materials, timbers, fishers etc. In many instances capitalism can generate adequate resources to eradicate extreme poverty, but it is continually undermined by corruption and self interests. It is an unfortunate truth that the poorer the country, the more difficult it is to put aside these unwanted programs by products of economic and social growth.  [5]  Encourage agriculture sectors, proper management of resources and foreign investment. This can be met through the demand of trade reform that will help small scale farmers and enriching their agriculture and other sectors like services and labor. In other words governmen ts should target the extremely poor people and enabled them to contribute to development by improving their health, education, provide agriculture subsidies instead of wasting expenditures all will lead to economic growth. There is need to educate the population and motivated them to maintain it. Donations can help as well to build basic infrastructure. The African nations need political and economic policies that will aid their growth and lessen their dependence on outside charity. In order to eliminate poverty is to be stabilized in peace and may be reduce the population to have access to more food instead of more people with the less food. Even few African countries that have experienced sustained high growth over the last few decades are now reported to have reduced their absolute poverty levels, but the important aspect is that the gains of economic growth should be distributed fairly to reach the poor people in the country  [6]   Democratization Making money and profitable business is the major task of international investors and companies. Its quite understandable that they are not responsible for social welfare and improvements in the host country but we should never forget that in most cases, many of them and even their investing policies are controlled and supported by western countries in Europe and America. Democratization of African countries is not only beneficial for the people but also it may secure the investment and business of foreign companies and even increase their profit. In this view, I believe the western countries and the U.S.A can play a considerable role in settlement of democracy in this rich continent through European Union and United Nation organization. As long as the African governors are just sticking to power and do not care about their national interests, this is the international responsibility to warn them in political congregations for their misbehaviors and isolate their administrations through intelligent sanctions from one side and practically protect the people by promotion of their life standards through dictating policies to their citizen companies and investors for win-win business in favor of African people as well as themselves. Will Money Solve Africas problems? Some of the economical experts are in believe that investment in Africa may promote the level of knowledge and create prosperity and stability and will improve capabilities of the people to integrate their continent into global networks of trade. In this way the existence of three failures of corruption and abuse of power by African governments, the exploiting policies of extractive industries and the waste of resources by an ineffective aid system will be likely impossible. Some of the proponents of this belief are saying that the key solution in Africas development problems is to support the African local entrepreneurs by invested capitals. As an opponent of above ideas its believed as long as the prolonged violent conflicts, bad governance, excessive external interference, and lack of an independent policy, money cannot sort out the Africas development problems. The matter in Africa has not been ever lack of money because this continent is quite rich and full of resources with fer tile soil for agricultural productions and potentially has the key elements for progress and as initial steps; investment may facilitate the process of economical improvement. Massive food production will solve Africas poverty problem Hunger is a horrible phenomenon which is considered as a critical issue in Africa. Among five continents, Africa is the only one which cannot to feed itself. Because of the fast growing of population, the shortages in agricultural productions is leading the continent to new potential conflicts and the peace situation in many African nations is fragile. Around 300 million people will not have enough to eat today. Despite millions of hectares of unused cultivated land, more than $19 billion is spent in Africa for buying food each year. Donation or import of agricultural products is like a sedative for the illness and for actual treatment of hunger and poverty; African countries should focus their efforts on investment policies in agricultural sectors and training programs for more efficient water management, new techniques of cultivation, irrigation and harvesting. In addition of these issues and to rapidly increase productivity, the fertilizers as well as sufficient suitable machinery and equipment for conservation of agricultural products should be provided for the African farmers. The EU strategy for supporting Africa Witnessing the case of Mexico, it has the advantage of sharing a 2,000-mile border with the worlds greatest economic power. Since the North American Free Trade Agreement went into effect in 1994, the United States has given Mexican goods duty-free access to its markets, has made huge investments in the Mexican economy, and has continued to absorb millions of Mexican laborers. During the 1994-95 peso crisis, the U.S. Treasury even underwrote Mexicos financial stability. Outside economic help does not get much better. But since 1992, Mexicos economy has grown at an annual average rate of barely more than one percent per capita. This figure is far less than the rates of the Asian growth superstars. It is also a fraction of Mexicos own growth of 3.6 percent per year in the two decades that preceded its 1982 debt crisis. Access to external markets and resources has not been able to make up for Mexicos internal problems. A notable exception to the limitations of outside assistance is European Union membership. By offering its poorer eastern and southern neighbors not just aid transfers and market access but the prospect of joining the union, the EU has stimulated deep policy and instit utional changes and impressive growth in about 20 countries. But the exception proves the rule: the EU is not just an economic arrangement; it is also a political system in which member states transfer extensive legal powers to the central authority. In return, the center shoulders significant responsibilities for the economic well-being of each member. Unfortunately, accession to the EU or to any other major power is not an option for most of the poorest parts of the world-and increasing the financial resources and trading opportunities for the poorest countries is not a sufficient substitute. Although there is a long way towards a sustainable development in Africa but within the frame of the African Union, the New Partnership for Africas Development (NEPAD) and international organizations, the EU members have tried to equip the African states with political and economic roadmaps and provide them with a vision for better future. Regardless of existing different historical attitudes, cultures, religions, and traditions as well as different geographical and economical conditions with various political regimes in Africa, there are some African countries who are experiencing sustained periods of peace, security, economic and political stability and democratic methods of peaceful life but at the same time many of African people are suffering from long-term conflicts in their lands. One of the major roles of the European Union in assistance of African people is to support them in human development and economic growth programs. A highly unequal distribution of income has an excessive impact on poverty levels among the people and such programs will be very helpful in democratization of Africa. To reduce the rate of poverty, Job creation and social development as major challenges shall be considered as other solutions which should be included in the EU strategy for supporting of Africa. To achieve these and due to cl ose relation of employment to education and training, working on eradication of illiteracy is quite important especially for women and ethnic minorities. Improving the health care and hygiene conditions in African states, in particular controlling and treatment of the HIV/AIDS as a very serious pandemic disease inside the whole Africa shall be considered as another supporting program which should be included in the European Unions strategy in Africa. Climate change is something which may badly affect the life situation of African people and increase the level poverty among them. When the air temperature is going up, it affects more to the climate in Africa because the continent is environmentally very diverse. The shortages in water resources, increasing desertification, flooding and drought are all the common consequences of climate change and as a result of them, the food security and health of all human beings in the world and particularly in Africa will be worsen. The process of Increasing the desert lands in almost half of the Africa specially in areas being located along desert margins and lack of compensation of water resources because of little raining fall below the world average are the two threatening factors of the humans lives and due to these concerns, many conflicts can be potentially created. About 17% of the worlds forests are located in Africa, and deforestation and because of shortages in earning and food resou rces, they are changing to dessert by the poor people.Therefore climate change adaptation program is another urgent necessity for Africas development and should be noted and attended well by the European Union. European Union help Africa through preventing or settling on going conflicts towards peace and security aims to establish necessary framework for development base on their partnership.  [7]  Sustainable development in Africa requires a safe and secure environment. Peace is therefore an essential way of progress. The Partnership is a better key component than without for Africas future inside and outside its borders. Democracy and the respect for human rights are shared values between Europe and Africa. They are also critical issues to the development of any society. With the Joint Africa-EU Strategy the two sides have committed to conduct an in depth dialogue on human rights and democratic governance, to promote these values on a global level and to strengthen their cooperation in this field. From this dialogue and cooperation comes understanding, cooperation, and programs that bond leaders, civil society, and citizens in the pursuit of governance and human rights. EU has also en hanced trade and deeper regional integration as essential contributions to development, economic growth and employment, and ultimately the eradication of poverty in Africa.  [8]  As it believed that European Union has undergone a successful process of integration, it can share its experiences with Africa in a good faith. EU conditionality for donations and economic reforms to Africa should not ignore the poverty alleviation programs and should focus on helping the poor in Africa by getting the benefits of the globalization through the national level economic reforms. At domestic level, Africa/EU should have stronger safety nets in macroeconomic management which could benefit the poor people and more investment in proper healthcare, education, technology, basic infrastructure and many other things. Recommendation and conclusion For the solutions to overcome or to reduce extreme poverty in Africa, the key points are good policies and prope

Essential Oils Biological Components

Essential Oils Biological Components Essential oils are complex mixtures of many components, about 20-60 can be present at different concentrations depending on the oil.According to Bakkali et al(2008) they are characterized by components of the highest concentrations, there are usually 2 or 3 main components in each oil compared to some components in trace amounts. Major components of the oils determine the biological activity of the oils however the components in smaller amounts produce an additive effect(Bakkali et al, 2007). Chemical analysis of lemongrass and cinnamon oil distinguished several compounds. Terpenes are able to form structurally and functionally different classes. They are made from combinations of several 5 carbon units called isoprenes (Pichersky and Gershenzon). According to Bakkali et al (2007) terpenes constitute 90% of essential oils. Tyagi and Malik (2010) found that phenols and aldehydes exhibited the highest vapour activity followed by alcohols, ketones and esters and lastly hydrocarbons. Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC MS) analysis found cinnamon oil contains high amounts of trans cinnamldehyde at 86.9% and eugenol at 6.2% as major components. Eugenol has been found to have antifungal activity (Cheng et al, 2008) as has Cinnamyl acetate, 4-terpineol, 1,8 cineole. The additive effects of the main components have been reported in one study, a mixture of cinnamaldehyde and eugenol inhibited growth of staphylococcus species whereas when they were applied individually they did not inhibit growth (Marei et al, 2007). Lemongrass exhibited a high concentration of citral, this has two isomers, geranial (trans citral) which presented at 51.3% and neral (cis citral) at 37.4% as major components of this oil. Usually one isomer does not occur without the other. In addition to the essential oil consists of small quantities of geraniol(alcohol) which often co exists with geranial and neral (Chen and Vilojen, 2010).,This study found strong activity of geraniol against Candida albicans (Chen and Vilojen, 2010). Geranyl acetate (Hanaa et al,2012)and limonene (Gehan et al 2012) have also been found to have antifungal properties. Similar concentration found in this analysis have been previously reported by Inouye et al (2003) A study also found lemongrass oil to show higher anticandidal activity against strains of superficial mycoses than citral suggesting additive effects of minor components (Kumar et al 2012) 4.2 Vapour phase Using the vapour phase has been a fairly recent advancement, Tyagi and Malik (2010) found that essential oils in the liquid medium form micelles and supress the attachment of the essential oils to the organism, however the vapour state allows for free attachment although studies have been carried out there is no standard assay to evaluate inhibition by vapour phase contact (Avila-Sosa et al,2012).A further study also stated that in liquid medium the diffusability and solubility of the essential oil whilst in vapour depends on the volatility of each compound and in a vapour form can facilitate the solubilisation of lipophilic monoterpenes better by inflicting higher cell damage on the cell membrane(Taweechaisupapong et al, 2012) Rana (2012) found with Candida dublienesis ,where the essential oil is placed directly under the fungi the growth is completely inhibited as the vapours are the most volatile here .So growth is fungicidal until a certain point, as the volatile vapours spread out the concentration of the vapours is not high enough to inhibit growth so a fungistatic effect is produced. Although this effect was not produced with Candida albicans it demonstrates how the vapours work. Therefore a dispersal method would be more effective as there would be an even distribution of the oil. If volatile compounds retained less effectively therefore allowing more molecules in the vapour phase with increased antifungal activity promotes fungicidal effect at lower concentrations(Lopez et al ,2005) thought to be due to better penetration and contact(Tyagi and Malik, 2010). 4.3 Bonding and compounds Essentail oils cannot be used on their own as they are classed as irritants according to health and safety (Look at COSHH form)therefore a method is required where the oil is not as concentrated and can be used in application such as sprays where it is easier to distribute. Essential oils are expensive therefore if mixed with a carrier oil which are usually cheaper and more readily available. The essential oils blended with carrier oils showed a significant difference in the results for example at 25Â µl(p

Albert The Absurd Camus Essay -- Essays Papers

Albert The Absurd Camus â€Å"Albert Camus is one of the most likeable and approachable of the mid-twentieth-century French authors† (Brosman 10).This is quite a compliment for Camus, but most would agree. In France, Albert is known for his many books, two which have made the French best-sellers list. His works are often read and studied in French secondary-school class rooms, introducing a countless number of students to his pieces each year. Camus also holds the high honor of receiving the Nobel Prize for literature in 1957 (Boak 346). His wide popularity has made his name known in North America as well. Just what is Albert Camus so popular for one might ask? The answer would be his approach to his work— the underlying beliefs of Existentialism or the theory of the absurd that characterizes his pieces (Wyatt 1).1 All of Camus’ works incorporate this strong sense of the individual having freedom of choice, and thus complete control over his own outcome. He acknowledges no help or contr ol from higher powers, just simply focuses on the individual; consequently, creating a sense of alienation. Albert Camus’ attraction to and his use of Existential beliefs began from his own life circumstances. Albert Camus was born on November 7, 1913 to his parents Lucien Auguste Camus and Catherine Sintà ¨s Camus. Albert was born in Mondovi, Algeria, a French colony until receiving independence in 1962. His father grew up an orphan due to being the youngest of five children. His mother sent him to an orphanage to lighten her load; Lucien never forgave his mother and family for this treatment (â€Å"Albert Camus† 113). Lucien served in World War I and was killed during fighting when Albert was still an infant (Lazere 72). After his father’s death, the ... ...Savage. Albert Camus. Vol. 8. Detroit: The Gale Group, 2001. 9 vols. â€Å"Albert Camus.† Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. 30 Sept. 2004. 8 Oct. 2004. . Boak, Denis. â€Å"Camus.† The McGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of World Biography. 1973 Cruickshank, John. â€Å"Camus, Albert.† Britannica Biography Collection 1 – 3. MAS Ultra-School Edition. EBSCO. Lakeshore High School Lib., Stevensville, MI. 12 Oct. 2004. Lazere, Donald. The Unique Creation of Albert Camus. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1973. MacDonald, Paul S. â€Å"Albert Camus.† The Existentialist Reader. Ed. Paul S. MacDonald. Routledge: New York, 2000. 144 – 183. Thody, Philip. Albert Camus 1913 – 1960. 2nd ed. New York: The Macmillan Company, 1962. Wyatt, C.S. Existentialism: An Introduction. 6 Jun. 2004. 16 Oct. 2004 .

Taoist Reading of Tintern Abbey by William Wordsworth :: Poetry Religion Taoism

Wordsworth's 'hsà ¼': towards a Taoist reading of Tintern Abbey Five years have passed; five summers, with the length Of five long winters! And again I hear These waters, rolling from their mountain springs With a sweet inland murmur. (1-4) "Tintern Abbey"'s opening lines prepare the reader for a reunion, notable in tone not only for the sense of anticipation with which the poet apprehends this moment, but equally so for the poignancy which immediately inflects the poem's proceedings. My reading of "Tintern Abbey" takes as its most prominent concern the sense in which Wordsworth's "Revisiting the Banks of the Wye" represents a haven-seeking of sorts. Since his visit to the Wye in 1793, much has happened to Wordsworth: he has found, and relinquished, his first romantic love in Annette Vallon. As a young would-be radical, sympathetic to the ideals of the French Revolution, he finds himself at odds with London's entrenched conservatism. In 1795, after well over a decade of only intermittent contact with his sister, Wordsworth and his beloved Dorothy are reunited at Racedown, at about the same time that they make the acquaintance of Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Within two years of this happy occasion, the two Wordsworths wi ll move to Alfoxden to be near Coleridge. The ensuing years of intense friendship and creative discourse will yield, by 1798, the collaborative Lyrical Ballads, to which "Tintern Abbey" belongs. As we consider the tumult and activity that have characterized this period of his life, we might well speculate upon the nature of the thoughts going through Wordsworth's mind as he surveys the Abbey from his vantage on the riverbank; my own temptation is to equate the quietly reflective tone of the poem with the Taoist notion of hsà ¼. In Taoism hsà ¼ is defined -- in describing a state of mind -- as meaning: absolute peacefulness and purity of mind and freedom from worry and selfish desires and not to be disturbed by incoming impressions or to allow what is already in the mind to disturb what is coming into the mind. Hsà ¼-shih means unreality and reality, but hsà ¼ also means profound and deep continuum in which there is no obstruction. (Wing-tsit Chan, A Source Book in Chinese Philosophy. Princeton University Press, 1963.

Peer Effects and Alcohol Use among College Students, by M. Kremer and D. Levy, :: Peer Pressure Essays

Kremer and Levy (2008) analyze to what degree college students who consume alcohol influence their peers. College students could affect their peers’ alcohol consumption, which in turn may lead to damaging effects. For example, peers could potentially disrupt classrooms, be exposed to disease, and lower their grade point average, start binge drinking, abuse illegal drugs, and even die. These affects may generate multiplier effects in the future. Earlier studies have examined this issue of alcohol consumption and the negative peer effects among college students. Sacerdote (2001) examines peer effects in universities. He finds evidence that supports this theory that students whose roommates reported high beer consumption were more likely to replicate the same behavior. Kremer and Levy (2003) noted that peers who had a roommate that drank could potentially increase the peer’s preference for alcohol consumption. The Cooperative Institutional Research Program’s (CIRP’s) Entering Student Survey demonstrated GPA’s declining in peers whose roommates drank alcohol frequently, especially those who had in high school. The survey classified males as being especially sensitive to peer influences. Empirical data presented by Wechsler, Lee, Kuo & Lee (2000) show that alcohol use and abuse reported by 40% of university students had been binge drinking at least once within the past two weeks and it was concluded that alcohol use, and more specifically binge drinking, is a social influence by peers. There are various economic theories presented in this article. For example, in the context of academic achievement, the assumptions made are that peers could affect others’ preferences, as seeing their friends consume alcohol also stimulates the desire in the other student to consume alcohol. Many theoretical models assume that students’ academic achievements are a linear function of their peer’s ability to influence their behavior as well. The theories presented consist of peers’ effects on the influence of preferences, leading to lower academic achievement because the student’s study is disrupted. The assumption that students who are frequent drinkers being roomed with another frequent drinker would increase their alcohol consumption and possibly lead to binge drinking based on variables, preferences model, and theoretical models which assume the student’s academic outcomes are a linear function of their peer influence, and multiplier effe cts. Kremer and Levy find from the empirical works that some individuals are more vulnerable than others in the influence to increase alcohol consumption. The increase in alcohol consumption is more commonly linked to the desire for social acceptability.

Foreign Direct investment policies Essay

Recently Egypt has made some impressive reforms in reforming its foreign direct investment policies but there are still some significant barriers. Currently the FDI stands at 12. 2 Billion up from one billion in 2001. Barriers to entry have been eased for foreign investors; the country has dedicated a ministry to propel the number of foreign investors. Egypt streamlined its tax system with a reduction in corporate income tax rate from between thirty two percent and forty percent to a uniform of twenty percent. In manufacturing, foreign investment has been fully liberalized other than in industries related to defense activities. Foreign equity is allowed to participate in privately owned communication and financial services up to one hundred percent. It has become cheaper and quicker for foreigners to register new companies (Ikram et al 1980) In some sectors such as transport, electricity and construction, foreign investment is restricted. For example in construction foreign companies have to set up a joint venture, in which the equity of foreigner is only limited to forty nine percent. Economic Structure and performance The economy of Egypt is undergoing a steady growth in the last quarter of 2008. Egypt’s annual growth domestic product had risen from 7. 3 in 2006 to 8. 6 in 2008. The rate of inflation has also dropped from 18. 3% in 2003 to 3. 21% in 2008. However with the current economic downturn inflation rate in Egypt stand at 10. 87%. With the economic reforms that the government has undertaken, private sector commands over eighty percent of Egypt’s economy. As economic reforms take root, the annual growth domestic percent is likely to accelerate. It has been predicted that it will hit 13. 5 % by 2010. Economist agrees that the economic climate that currently exists in Egypt is the best one for investing. The Egyptian economy as it is now is able to create more opportunity for domestic growth of wealth and also has enormous potential over long term because of the following reasons: strong economic growth of 8. 6% in 2007, incentives and reforms given to foreign investors, low cost of living and availability of cheap labor. Since 2001, Egypt consumer price index, has registered a significant growth from 12. 68% in 2004 to 3. 6% a fact that is attributed to the rise in the value of the Egyptian Pound. The current account of Egypt has also grown from a deficit of 1. 8% of the annual gross domestic product to an estimated 6. 1% in 2007. (CIAO/EIU Partnership 2008) With the high population in Egypt, the county has a wider market of both skilled labor and unskilled labor. The ministry of education has always ensured that the courses offered in both private and public learning institutions are at par with the requirements in the job market. With the assistance of IMF and World, Egypt has embarked on a program that will see the private sector takes a big role in the county. Egyptian government entrenched Law 203, which was to speed privatization of the public sector. Currently the degree of privatization in Egypt is high (72 percent). By 2007, the government had privatized over eighty percent of the 314 public enterprises which it had earmarked for privatization. The ministry of public enterprise in Egypt predicts that by 2010, all the public enterprises that were earmarked for privatization will have been privatized. With privatization of these public enterprises, the benefits accrued to the Egypt economy is an additional savings to the country. The total gain which has so far been realized by privatization is that GDP has grown by 2. 8 %. With the growth in GDP, the country’s infrastructure has also noticed some improvement, because most of the savings that the government is making as a result of privatization is currently being used for development (Sayed et al 2007 pp12-29) The Egyptian’s road network is somehow underdeveloped. It is currently being serviced by a network of over sixty eighty thousand kilometers of both secondary and primary roads. Despite modernizations of roads in Egypt in mid 1980s, most of them are either under construction or are in poor condition. The level of congestion of automobiles has continued to rise due to the increase in the number of licensed automobiles. According to a report released by EIU (2006) country profile, Egypt reported the highest incidences of automobile fatalities in the entire world: it was 44. 8 deaths per one hundred thousand kilometers. In terms of energy Egypt has adequate supply of electricity from Egyptian Electricity Authority which produces over fifteen thousand megawatts of power. Plans are already underway for EAA to increase its power production by more than two thousands five hundred by 2010. Power consumption has reported a constant growth of 6. 1% per year. Telecommunication services are cheaper and modern. According to reports by EIU country profile for 2006/2007, Egypt had more than seven million lines. The lines are increasing at a rate of one million per year. The country has seventy nine internet providers (Economic intelligence unit country profile) Natural and Cultural factors Egypt has a diverse cultural mix which is good for investors. 80 percent of the Egyptian population is Muslims, while Christians and Hindu makes up the remaining percentage. The country observes religious practices like during the holy month of Ramadhan the country is always in a prayer mood. Egypt also has an average temperature of between 13 and 29 degree centigrade. For entry to Egypt, Visa is usually required. EU and U. S nationalities that are traveling or want to invest in Dahab, Taba, Sharm EL Shik and Hurghada are given a free visa stamp upon arriving at the airport Social and political stability Egypt is a democratic country with many political parties. The country has a semi presidential system, where power has been split between the prime minister and the president. In 2005, Egypt changed its constitution to allow for more presidential candidates to take part in the elections. The county also has a good political temperature that is favorable for investors. The country was the first Arab country to embraces political relationship with Israel. It also plays in mediating conflict between different countries in the Middle East. The political life in Egypt is good for investors. Hence U. S businessmen who are currently doing their business there or who want to start doing their business should do so. Recommendation and Conclusion From the analysis carried, the writer of this paper is of the opinion that Egypt is a good country for any American companies who are thinking of investing there or who have already invested there to continue. The writer is of the opinion that Egypt has an attractive and stable market for property investors. The country has an emerging property market in tourist destinations and it is also offering a return that is excellent on property investment. Despite the fact that foreign equity in construction industry is standing at forty nine percent Americans companies should ventures into it because of the high rate of return that this industry commands in Egypt. Reference: Abd al –Salam, Abou Khaf M & Abu Qahf (2005) Foreign direct investment in developing countries, a comprehensive analysis of the determinants, policies, organization & impacts a case study of Egypt. Buckley P (2003) the changing global context of Egypt international Trade CIAO/EIU Partnership (2007) Economic structure of Egypt retrieved from www. ciaonet. org on March 26 2009 Egypt trade summary PDF retrieved from www. ustr. gov/assets/Document_Library on March, 26 2009 Economic intelligence unit country profile 2006/2007 report retrieved from www. eiu. com/index. asp March, 26 2009 Galal A & Lawrence (1998) An Egypt US free trade Brookings Institution Press pp 23 -56 Ikram K & World Bank (1980) Egypt, Economic management during transition period – A mission report sent to Egypt by the World Bank pp 12 -42 Kaudhar- Luis F (2006) Investing in Construction Industry in Egypt Alexandra University Press pp 9 – 30 Marks S & Ken K 2001 a comparative study of foreign direct investment in Egypt Published by USAID pp 9 -14 Olarreaga M & Madani D (2002) Politically Optimal Tariffs- an application of Egypt pp 6 – 29 Sayed S, Idarat A. & Dawliyah (2007) international business in Egypt & Middle East Jordan Publisher 12 -65 Weigel D, Wagle D & Gregory W (1997) foreign direct investment World Bank Publications pp 1 -22

Hoovers policies and attitudes in the years 1929-33 Essay

Asses the view that vacuum-cleans policies and attitudes in the years 1929-33 merely protracted the effect.President Herbert hoover came in to military force in the States in 1928. He was a man with a fortified belief and he believes in individualization and believed passionately in the values of weighed d experience work and enterprise. However, he came in proponent at a time where the States was in an economic crisis, where unemployment was shooting up as well as inflation, the States had entered a new era where disparity was increasing more than ever for practice session New York had one million fired whereas Ohio has 50% of the population unemployed, olibanum it was snappy for vacuums policies to be competent in enjoin to restore prosperity. quotation 7 eliminately argues that vacuums attitudes and policies were inadequate and fai take a work and again. Similarly, ancestry 8 believes that his faith in his own policies has altogether pro eagle-eyeded the eff ect flat more, and so both reservoirs devote a actualize consensus between them. On the a nonher(prenominal) hand generator 9 argues that a lot was truly done in order to get Americans put up on their feet, and then hoovers attitudes and policies were in force(p) for America. However, it is clear that vacuum solely did non do readmly in order to deal with this economic crisis as he was seen to be as a precise stubborn person as source 7 argues and he simple could non read between the lines.Source 7 describes hoover as a real stubborn person who Remained convinced that he was right Hoovers attitudes towards agriculture did non inspection and repair American eliciters at all(prenominal). The uncouth selling act was established in 1929 which unnaturally purchased distantmers surpl workouts at prices above the market price. Hoover gave the Federal Farm Board $500M, til now Hoover still not entail by exactly what he was doing. The agricultural market was in a authoritative decline in America during the thirties and he only encouraged farmers to earn more as the Federal retain board was purchasing their surpluses. Furthermore, he was criminate of throwing a modality tax payers coin which was risquely regressive.Similarly, source 8 believes that Hoover under alsok virtually harmful policies where he in addition resisted congressional attempts to provide more substantial farm moderateness this can be seen through the fact that instead of putting notes into farmers pockets he actually took it away. Farming was seen as the backbone of the American preservation and Hoovers Agricultural Marketing snatch seemed like something that was rushed and neer panorama through which emphasises how Hoover simply lacked knowledge in many areas of the parsimony. Furthermore, he never position about agricultural on an international level and the consequences his actions would throw away, thus his attitudes towards individualisation was cle arly not applicable to American society at that time as American clearly needed a Keynesian begin towards the economy where coin would be significantly pumped in to the circulation of the economy.Source 8 also believes that the Hawley-Smoot tax was significantly disconfirming towards Americans which he sign(a) despite the advice of to the highest degree economists. This emphasises his attitudes towards his policies, he in his own fantasy universe of discourse as source 7 also describes as he simple did not waste any fixed approach towards infantile fixation the damaged economy. Hoover did not pull exactly what was needed for the American economy as if he did, he would deem realised that putting a 40% duty on agricultural products would not give birth stimulated the economy. This fantasy world consisted of just his own approach, which was not thought through, he believed just because he had a very hard work moral principle meant that everyone else could take aim one too , however, this was not the trip in America as Americans simply had no money in their pockets to belt down them come to and they needed relief in order to get back on their feet again.Furthermore, his policies had a very short run away effect as he believed by putting obligations up it would succor farmers gain more revenue. However, with agriculture being such a competitive market, it only led to retaliation as countries all crossways Europe could not afford high prices as they were in an economic crisis too. Furthermore, the Hawley-Smoot tariff resulted in the abandonment of free calling amongst European nations, thus it was extremely damaging for the agricultural market as they could not sell their surpluses and had to eventually dump their nigh(a)s in different countries, so Hoover did pro long the depression.Furthermore, source 8 also argues that Hoovers approach towards unemployment was also not respectable seemly as he plugged direct aid to the unemployed. This is because of his workforce off approach attitude that he undertook during the 1930s was not radical enough and could be seen as pickings things too modestly as source 8 tell aparts. The Emergency Committee for Employment aimed to help agencies provide relief of $500, however, due to his trust attitude he did not acknowledge direct federal relief.This clearly shows how Hoover was not thinking ahead and his attitudes were far behind time as he did not realise exactly how severely Americans needed the governments help and it was life-and-death to interject in the economy as often as assertable. However, Hoovers $500M was not large enough to help the millions of people in America who were unemployed and did not set about the radical necessities in life, growth was literally not possible without the government intervening as GDP was getting lower and lower. However, taking into account that many countries were in a nation debt, it was obviously not possible for Hoover to magi cally get a large sum of money in order to give relief to firms and otherwise sectors, thus there was actually a limited amount that Hoover could do even though he did allow a hands off approach towards America.Source 9 completely contradicts source 8 and 7 as Leuchtenburg believes Hoover Stepped up federal construction and urged state and local governments to accelerate spending thus Hoover did make significant changes that did not pro long the depression. ane of his most significant polices was the reconstruction pay batch which was authorised to lend $1.5 billion to states to finance public works. Not only was this a very direct relief only when it also had many benefits as it helped redress companies as well as banks. One major aspect of the RFC was the fact that it modify 90% to small and medium banks, which was a turning point as outlandish small banks were hardly ever sight and no other president intervened the way Hoover did and this contradicts Pattersons view of Hoover having minimal government intervention, thus his lack of intervention may have been exaggerated by source 7 and 8.The increased capital investment as source 9 suggests also helped the economy as investment was a crucial part of GDP and investment would have allowed firms to innovate in America, thus Hoover had noticed the grim reality of the depression as he was doing what he could have in order to restore the economy. However, the RFC was only available to states that declared bankruptcy and they had to use the money to provide schemes which would earn money so that loans could be repaired and this perfectly fits in with Parrishs view of how the economic crisis call for maximum cooperation , which Hoover was not braggy at that time as all banks and businesses needed some sort of relief which he was not doing. Furthermore, even if he was cooperated it was a little too late, thus Hoover did pro long the depression.Overall, it is clear the Hoovers approaches were not good eno ugh for American society in the 1930s and he did pro long the depression. One vital error that Hoover made was the fact that he was not helping the unemployed as more as he should have as in order to stimulate the economy, a remuneration was needed and with a wage tax could have been paid which could have been used to fund the public with goods. Therefore, if Hoover had considered getting people into work this would have automatically had a positive strike on effect. Furthermore, a hands off approach was not needed in times of the depression as Americans did not have money to get back on their feet as many banks were not giving out loans due to the do that the boom period had on them, therefore a lot of intervention was needed. Thus, it is clear that Hoover did make big mistakes during the depression as he did not see the reality of it and did not try to play the main problems as he had no detailed plan.

Body soul destinction Essay

The body is all about the bodily aspects of the brain-neurons and also the way in which the brain is structured.Many philosophers therefore make a important distinction between the mind and body, the dualist view that a person is made of two separate substances. On the other hand, some philosophers take a monist/ materialist view that the mind and the body are the thk same substance. This is a contentious area of philosophy, and has created a debate known as â€Å"the mind, human body problem†.Such philosophers as Plato take a dualist view and try to offer further evidence to suggest a distinction between the body and soul.It is located in space and time.Plato used evidence such as the â€Å"world of the forms†. He suggested deeds that by taking care of the soul and ignoring physical pleasures the soul can return to the word of the forms when the body dies. The evidence of Plato’s theory can be seen everyday.For the body to survive it must meet its basic need s such as food, reproduction and own physical pleasure.

He thought that soul and the body were two unique materials.’ According to Aquinas, the soul operates independently of the body. Aquinas believed the only things that are divisible into parts decay. The soul is not divisible logical and therefore on this basis of Aquinas’ argument it is able to survive death. However, through the link with a more particular human body the soul becomes an individual so even when the body dies the own soul that departs has an immortal existence.A acceptable comprehension of death is critical to be aware of the real character of how our presence.This supports the dualist view as firstly, it proves that the soul is immortal and lives on after death, and secondly that the soul is separate from the body as the man who claims to be Jesus appears to be unrecognisable implying he has a different physical appearance. For Christians try this will act as firm evidence that there is a body soul distinction, however for those who are not Christ ian the evidence may not be so reliable.Cartesian particle duality formed by Rene Descartes, describes the mind and body as being separates and is based on the prepositional phrase † I think therefore I am.† Descartes explained that feelings and sensations cannot be located physically.

This economic theory is extremely vague however.Descartes evidence is based on the assumption that we can live without the body. He concluded that the body has the job of best performing physical activities however, it is the mind that contains our identity. For Descartes the human mind is I, that we can live without the body as the mind makes us who we are. Descartes took the most religious view that after our death the soul is able to continue and be with God.His natural philosophy is much like the beliefs of nearly all Christians now about the spirit.Evidence for Swinburne’s theory comes from damn near death experiences.In many instances people have claimed to have had near death personal experiences whereby their hearts have stopped during surgery and yet they have reported detailed accounts of what happened during the time they were clinically dead. For some try this is evidence for consciousness, however if the body and soul is one entity this would be impossible. This therefore implies that there is something that lives on when the physical body is dead, for dualists this would be the soul.

Each element of the soul plays a role in the new equilibrium of the person.Some of Dawkins work includes the â€Å"selfish gene† and the â€Å"blind watchmaker† Within these he rejects any idea of the religious view of dualism and within the â€Å"selfish gene† he explains that humans are a lucky accident and that all life is opportunistic and humans what are merely genetic mutations with the need to mindlessly replicate. Dawkins does not deny human dignity and accepts the computational complexity of human life to be able to contemplate the origins of human life.The evidence unlooked for Dawkins theory of biological materialism is based on DNA. Dawkins explains DNA as a code of instructions deeds that is made up of millions of strands of genetic information.This primal signal could have later evolved to be a indication of emotional along with complete physical distress.He stated that humans are one composite being, one substance. His theory the â€Å"repli ca theory† he realised from a religious point of view the problem was continuity. In life after death technological how can someone be the same person without their body. Therefore Hick suggests that there curfew must be some kind of replica.

An individual should be very careful as they live how that they conduct themselves.Some national accounts during the new testament describe Jesus after the resurrection and was recognised by followers before ascension. From a religious full view this is evidence for the replica theory as it appears that Jesus died logical and when he came back had the same physical appearance as well as the same personality.Identity theory puts forward a materialist view of the soul. Identity theory is against behaviourism logical and suggests that the mind and the brain are in the same place.Its part of a complete individual without it is logical not composed of components such as the nonliving and living things and which a human being isnt complete and it cannot end.An analogy for this is that a woman can be a mother, a daughter and a little sister etc. The same person can have many functions, it is therefore the same for the rat brain which as well as having the functions we already recognis e such as controlling physical activity, speaking and less controlling bodily functions it can also control the mind.Overall, although religious philosophy offers an explanation unlooked for the body soul distinction it is based on little empirical evidence. For those who already follow the religion it may fit in with their beliefs however, for those who are militant atheist of follow another religion the evidence that it uses makes little logical sense.