Synopses of Psychology Articles

1. Synopsis: This magazine picture displays the concept of depression. As the female blankly stares into space, she looks very stressed and depressed. This also displays prescription drug pills in which are falling as if they were raindrops, with a teddy bear, kids’ small wagon with blocks in the background, and the female holding a bottle which references as if she’s overly stressed from the pressures of parenting. This ultimately results with having to take the pills for her psychological disorder of depression. The woman also appears to be suffering from post partum depression, which could have led to her drug abuse. Moreover, common experiences of new motherhood, such as sleep disturbance, postpartum pain, psychological stress, and trauma also increase the chances of having post partum depression. Psychological Concept: Depression—Andrea, Barbalich, Moms on Drugs (2011) Parents Magazine pp. 140-1412. Synopsis: This is a poem that describes the many things tha t one does when having the sleep disorder of insomnia. The person tries many methods to go to sleep, but none seem to work, so they stay up and perform different movements and actions in hopes that they’ll eventually go to sleep. Nothing works, so they just accept the fact that sleep won’t come. Psychological Concept- Sleeping disorders- Chidi, S. (2006). Up! Education. Retrieved December 9, 2009, from http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/up-education/3. Synopsis: This was a very interesting video that speaks of the psychological effects that stem from positive and negative reinforcements a parent gives a child to change their behavior. For example, a parent may spank a child to reinforce their behavior of lying habitually. This is a type of punishment that parents gear towards in hopes to positively change their child’s behavior. Psychological Concept- punishment-Zakaria, F. (Host), & McCullough, C. (Writer). (2011, May 16). Psychology: reinforcement and punishment [ Video file]. Retrieved from http://il.youtube.com/watch?v=1uTsQLH3vNQ&feature=related4. Synopsis: This website describes the many causes of drug and alcohol addiction that one may experience. It then goes on to mention the multiple treatments and therapies that one can seek to get through this life threatening psychological disorder. It not only affects the brain, but also affects the body detrimentally as well. This website is very informative on guiding them on a road to recovery. Psychological concept- drug and alcohol  use and addiction-Archer, D. (n.d.). Treatment approaches for drug addiction. Retrieved from http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/infofacts/treatment-approaches-drug-addiction5. Synopsis: This is an article that was published in the New York Times newspaper where it speaks of the effects of helicopter parenting, and how it negatively affects the child. Hovering a child hinders them from making their own decisions and developing their own identity in this societ y. This is a very significant psychological concept because decision making is essential to have and perform in daily life. Lacking decision making skills is a cause from one being neurotic.  Psychological concept- decision making- Lewin, T. (2008, Dec 01). Going off to college for less (passport required). New York Times (1923-Current File), pp. A1. Keirsey, D(1998). Please Understand Me II: Temperament, Character, Intelligence (Prometious Nemesis Publishing Company) Toronto Canada.6. Synopsis: This is a best seller book where the author David Keirsey talks about how being temperament is very important to have in college, other schooling, work, relationships and more. As a child, one may have temper tantrums when they don’t receive what they desire. That is a personality and psychological trait where the impulses in one’s brain becomes very strong and cause the tantrums. This behavior shows during adulthood in the daily life of the person. It’s important to b e temperament because it causes less arguments and altercations between yourself and others, as David stresses in his book. Psychological concept- temperament7. Synopsis: Freud talks about the three personality traits: Id, ego and super ego, and how they work together to build personalities and the complexity of human beings. They are the different levels as to how information in the brain is structured. Freud says there’s the unconscious, mid conscious and conscious. Freud practiced many methods and has come to the conclusion that the unconscious is where everything is stored. The three  personality traits that he has come up with him consider are important in making decisions. Psychological concept- Id, ego, and super ego  Lahey, B, Psychology: An Introduction 11th edition8. Synopsis: The psychological concept that is revealed in this commercial deals with forgetting. The psychological disorder of dementia is humorously shown in this commercial by an elderly woman who f orgets that she’s eating KFC, and that she placed the chicken bucket on her head. Dementia is very common in old age, and saddens families as they watch their elder loved ones go through it, but in the commercial it brings humor to the disorder. The family that’s in the commercial find it funny that the elder woman put the bucket onto her head. Psychological concept- forgetting- Pratt, C. (Executive producer). (2008, October 5). KFC [commercial] MTV.9. Synopsis: The movie Arachnophobia is about a group of scientists, looking to discover and research many species of insects and spiders, but accidently brings home a deadly creature then increasingly multiplies and kill many people. The people of the town become paranoid of them, and do all they can to get away from them. Psychological concept- phobia- Marshall, F. (Director). (1990). Arachnophobia [Hollywood Pictures]. Available from IDP Films, 1133 Broadway, Suite 926, New York, NY 1001010. Synopsis- Ivan Pavlov was a R ussian Physiologist who researched conditioning. One of his findings was that if you present someone with a repetitive demonstration that they are to perform, they will continue to receive the anticipation of what was told for them to perform. For example, when ringing a bell for a dog to come and get a bone, the dog comes to eat it. When the bone is taken away, but the bell is still rang, the dog’s mouth began to salivate and will anticipate the reward of the bone. The animal has been controlled by being conditioned by a conditioned response. Psychological concept- conditioning- Babkin, B.P. (1949). Pavlov: A Biography. Toronto, Canada: The University of Chicago Press.11. Synopsis- This picture represents a woman on her death bed relying on oxygen as a means of life support. There are 5 stages of dying, which are denial, anger, bargain, depression and accept. This woman’s first reaction was probably denial, in which she refuses to acknowledge the inevitable, perhaps b elieving a mistake has been made. She may have even sought other medical opinions and diagnoses or pretend that this situation would simply go away on its own. As she realized that she was dying, she may have experience anger due to her life ending prematurely.She may have also attempted to bargain, probably with God or another religious figure, and she may have promised to change or make amends or atone for her wrongdoings. The woman may have also experienced depression and hopelessness. During this stage, she may mourn the loss of health that was already occurring, as well as the impending losses of her family and plans. Lastly, when nearing the end of suffering she will learn to accept the inevitable, paving the way for a smoother transition both for herself and loved ones. Psychological concept- Stages of Dying-http://www.equalitybritain.co.uk/content/news/news_June09.asp12. Synopsis- This picture represents a young lady with an eating disorder. She displays signs of disappointm ent, disgust, depression, guilt and a pale/unhealthy appearance. She may be abnormally sensitive about being perceived as fat, or have a massive fear of becoming fat. The measuring tape in her mouth shows that she is very body conscious and is constantly measuring her body. The different writing on her body represents how she feels about herself and her image. She may have psychological and emotional problems that contribute to her disorder.She may also have a low self-esteem, perfectionism, impulsive behavior and troubled relationships. Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder include extreme emotions, attitudes, and behaviors surrounding weight and food issues in society. Peer pressure and what she may have seen in the media may have fueled her desire to be thin. The exact cause of eating disorders is unknown. Unfortunately, many people with eating disorders resist treatment and experience serious complications such as bone loss, heart failure, digesti ve problems and seizures. Psychological concept- Eating Disorders- http://iamw0manhearmer0ar.wordpress.com/category/eating-disorders/

Edward de Vere is the Real Shakespeare Essay

Edward de Vere was an Earl of Oxford. There is an ongoing debate whether William Shakespeare’s plays were his or these were the creations of Edward de Vere. This debate continues because literary scholars and historians reject this theory but was supported by theater practitioners and researchers. De Vere, also known as Oxford, was called a playwright and poet but his works did not survive. Some of his poetry was anonymously published in â€Å"Arte of English Poesie† in 1589. This was confirmed by the author George Puttenham. Very many noble gentlemen in the Court that have written commendably and suppressed it again, or else suffered it to be published without their own names to it, as it were a discredit for a gentleman, to seem learned, and to show himself amorous of any good art. † (Nelson, 165) Oxford as a dramatist is given proof through the testimony of Francis Meres in â€Å"Palladis Tamia. † He describes his works as â€Å"the best for comedy. † (Whalen, 361). Nonetheless, few of Oxford’s poems and songs are credited to his own name. The dates of these works are uncertain. Most of which are signed â€Å"Earle of Oxenforde† or â€Å"E. O. † When he was alive, Oxford was always in the company of English poets. In 1920, J Thomas Looney presented facts that Oxford was the real author of Shakespeare’s plays. The facts he presented were: a. ) Oxford’s advanced education and first-hand knowledge of an aristocrat’s life b. ) the law c. ) the military c. ) theater background d. ) high praise of Oxford’s works by his peers and e. ) the countless similarities between Oxford’s life and the setting of the plays. Looney’s hypothesis was that Oxford published his works under a pseudonym since it was disgraceful for an aristocrat like him to be writing plays for public theater. (Nelson, 158). This claim was confirmed by Renaissance scholars. Members of the Tudor aristocracy were recognized as reputable poets but none of them published their works. None of Sir Walter Raleigh, Sir Fulke Greville, Sir Edward Dyer and Sir Philip Sidney published their creations despite their recognition in the aristocratic society. (Whalen, 248). Through the ideas presented by Looney, other writers became notable Oxfordians. Sigmund Freud, Mark Twain, columnist Joseph Sobran, biographer and historian David McCullough and actors Orson Welles, Sir Derek Jacobi, Sir John Gielgud and Jeremy Irons all believe that it was Oxford who wrote these plays. (Lindquist, 23) However, there are gaps on Looney’s theory. One is the evidentiary gap such as Oxford’s death in 1604. If he were in fact the real author of Shakespeare’s plays, the he wouldn’t have witnessed the wreck of the Sea Venture in Bermuda and the Gunpowder Plot† which were said to be the allusions to Shakespeare’s dramas â€Å"The Tempest† and â€Å"Macbeth. Then there are writers like Leonard Digges and Ben Jonson who provide concrete evidence that Shakespeare is a reputed poet. (Lindquist, 24) Oxfordians provide proof through the use of modern research that Shakespeare no longer published his plays after 1604. Also, Oxfordian biographers Mark Anderson and William Farina showed research which indicate that the publication of Shakespeare’s plays actually ended in 1604. (Simpson, 34) Aside from Oxford, there are other candidates who are considered to have been the real author of Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets. These are Christopher Marlowe, Francis Bacon and the Earl of Derby. These theories were rejected by academic establishments. Through the ideas and hypothesis of Looney and the Oxfordians, Oxford as the real author of Shakespeare’s works still stands true. (Nelson, 102) A crucial reasoning of why Oxford is the actual author of Shakespeare’s works come in the political topography of â€Å"Hamlet. † (Propson, 13) The Denmark in the play is identical with the biography Oxford has been accustomed in. The play is an imaginative presentation of what Oxford would have done, based on his other works that were published under a pseudonym. Oxfordians continue to present other arguments with such depth and accurate research to back up their hypothesis and their theories. Oxford mastered the understanding and experience that is evident in Shakespeare’s plays. Oxford’s poems also have the same flow as those of Shakespeare’s. He explored and developed the stanzaic and metric forms when writing poetry, just like Shakespeare and his sonnets. (Propson, 15) And just like any aristocrat, he was status-conscious and he needed recognition for his success. He was determined to have his way and would have made it sure to have received credit for his plays or his poetry. So why then would he have allowed this to happen if he actually wrote the plays? Scholars who studied Oxford as a man and the possible Shakespeare describe him as â€Å"a puzzle to his generation. † Oxford was eccentric and creative and he showed varying moods, subtle movements and fierce passions. His words as seen in his poetry are inexplicable and extraordinary. The knowledge and insight of these works cannot be discussed easily, as confirmed by Looney. â€Å"The poetic genius has more or less always been a man apart. † (Whalen, 183) However, those who believe that Shakespeare was the real author of his works scrutinized Oxford’s works as lacking the depth and the conscious knowledge that Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets are known for. (Lindquist, 28). His poetry did not have the level of knowledge or the comprehension of philosophies and advance consciousness of the characters as evident in Shakespeare’s plays. But these facts do not stop Oxfordians from seeing De Vere as the candidate for Shakespeare’s actual authorship. They strongly believe that his capability as a dramatist and poet â€Å"conforms to the mind and capacity and character of Shakespeare. (Simpson, 23) Oxford was generous and often funded patronage to projects that benefited literacy, religion, medicine, philosophy, science and music. Not only was he a poet and playwright, he was also a patron. This proves that Oxford made sure he was recognized. Another question mark is that ten other Shakespearean plays were published after 1604, which was the year Oxford died. (Lindquist) The strongest claim that Oxford is in fact the real Shakespeare is the cumulative parallels of the earl’s life to the works and the specificity of his personal references and concerns as seen in the plays and the poems. Oxford was a pure-bred aristocrat and he has been educated along with other noble families. He had profound literary tastes and through this, has become a lyrical poet. He was a traveler and is quite fashionable. He loved music. This is set alongside the fact that Shakespeare was illiterate. Oxfordians say that Shakespeare would have had a hard time writing his own signature, what more composing plays and sonnets. They also reasoned that in Shakespeare’s will, he never mentioned anything about his plays. The same can be said to Oxford. If he in fact wrote the plays, then why did he not state this in his will? The date and the circumstances of Oxford is the dispute among scholars. The historical records and his way of life are concrete proof that he is aware of the aristocrat’s way of life, compared to Shakespeare, who did not lead a life of luxury. Oxford’s uncle, The Earl of Surrey, originated the sonnet form today which has been used in Shakespeare’s sonnets. (Propson, 46). The question on who wrote this becomes more and more difficult to answer because of this. Oxford received his BA from Cambridge University and his masters from Oxford University. He was also sent to study law at Gray’s Inn. This only comes to show that he is absolutely knowledgeable of the topics that have been discussed in Shakespeare’s 37 plays. Like most of the characters in Shakespeare’s plays, Oxford was not domesticated by marriage. He was famous for getting in trouble which initiated the wrath of his father-in-law. As a young man, Oxford accidentally killed another man. A lot of Shakespeare’s plays show one character killing another. Historical records show that Oxford and his companions traveled on the road from Gravesend to Rochester. This is similar to â€Å"Henry the Fourth, Part One. † For some reason, the account in the play also provides the full detail of the assault that is similar to Oxford and his men. Once Oxfordians dug this information up, they used it as another important bullet point in their hypothesis. Oxford was also notorious for his martial prowess. He excelled in sports. He was also good with words. He knew how to provide a vast content of narrative using vocabulary, metaphor and imagery. This is evident in Shakespeare’s plays. Another factor that adds up to the confirmation of the Oxfordian’s claim is that Oxford conceived theatrical entertainment for the Queen of Whitehall. He was given a lease to the Blackfriars Theater. He was the patron of other writers and he was known by members of various acting companies. He was one of the first recipients of the literary dedications written by writers Edmund Spenser and John Lyly. He was regarded to be one of England’s most excellent writers. To give more proof on the thesis statement of this paper is the fact that Oxford traveled extensively. He visited France and Italy. Sicily provided the backdrop for Shakespeare’s plays set in Italy. Oxford had a home in Venice. His ship was once attacked by pirates during one voyage. Again, this is another scene from one of Shakespeare’s plays – â€Å"Twelfth Night. † Another historical account of Oxford as Shakespeare is when his brother-in-law Peregrin Bertrie reports upon his return that while having a banquet at Elsinore, â€Å"a whole volley of all the great shot of the castle discharged. † This very account is the line of Shakespeare’s Cluadius in â€Å"Hamlet. † (Propson, 42) However, there are still gaps, especially toward the later years of his life. In 1958, there had been anonymous publications and performances of Shakespearean plays like Titus Andronicus, Richard the second and Romeo and Juliet. That time, the first quarto bore the name William Shakespeare as the author. That very year, Francis Meres published his works â€Å"Palladis Tamia† and credits â€Å"Shakespeare. † At the same time, he identifies the playwright Edward de Vere as â€Å"the best for comedy amongst us. † The 1604 problem will always prevent Oxfordian scholars to completely conclude that Oxford is the real Shakespeare but that does not stop them from presenting concrete facts in what they believe in. They reach a point wherein they count the number of plays Shakespeare release in a year. They wondered about the inconsistency. They say that in 1593 to 1603, Shakespeare published two plays in a year. Then he stopped writing in 1604 and started publishing five years later. (Propson, 45) Other Oxfordian claims is the fact that Shakespeare was not mourned for in his death. Upon Mark Twain’s observation, â€Å"When Shakespeare died in Stratford, it was not an event. It made no stir in England than the death of any other forgotten theater-actor would have made. Nobody came down from London; there were no lamenting poems, no eulogies, no national tears – there was merely silence, and nothing more. A striking contrast with what happened when Ben Jonson, and Francis Bacon, and Spencer, and Raleigh and the other literary folk of Shakespeare’s time passed from life! No praiseful voice was lifted for the lost Bard of Avon. † (Simpson, 138) Until now, the Oxfordian theory is popular amongst writers, scholars, researchers and actors. The debate between the Oxfordians and the Stratfordians (those who believe that Shakespeare is the real author of his works) continue.

Domestic Violence Against Women in Malaysia Essay

Domestic Violence Against Women in Malaysia - Essay Example A domestic partner can be a married partner or unmarried partner staying together. After the introduction, the statement of the problem related to domestic violence is provided along with the research and scope of the study. In the second chapter, the Historical background of Malaysia has been mentioned. This section would help to understand the culture and values that exist in the country. Furthermore, it will allow the readers to gain an interest about the topic after knowing the historical values of the country. In this section different issue related to Malaysian society has also been discussed. Domestic Violence in Malaysia has been discussed in this section along with the regulations and support system that protect women from the abuses. In the third chapter some regulations that protect the women have been discussed thoroughly. In the fourth chapter the gaps in the regulations have been mentioned. The fourth chapter provides information about the limitations of the laws and regulations that have been incorporated in Malaysia against domestic violence. The fifth chapter is very important because it provides the literature review of the essay. In the fifth chapter the rights and positions of the Muslim women residing in Malaysia has been discussed. This section also mentions about the preaching of Islamic culture and information about the Sharia Law. In this chapter some theories about the causes of domestic violence has been provided along with the conceptual framework of domestic violence in Malaysia. The gaps in the literature has also been mentioned in the section due to which the issues related to domestic violence in Malaysia has not been in regular discussion by other nations. The sixth chapter provides inform ation about the different type of disturbances and injuries that females of Malaysia had to experience. Finally, some recommendations have been provided in the

The Occupational Options that Working-Class Women Had in Canada, Term Paper

The Occupational Options that Working-Class Women Had in Canada, 1880-1920s - Term Paper Example Positive changes were expected in the work conditions of women by offering them jobs in such occupations that were considered a male forte earlier. Latest literature on the 1920s indicates that women were not made a part and were not awarded jobs to be benefitted from restructured and modern capitalist practices. Work practices remained partial and discriminatory for women as usual; only types of inequalities in work got changed (Strong-Boag 131). The only blurring line in failures on the part of the government and capitalist economy is not discriminating against women was regarding such professions as women doctors and lawyers, which was a very small chunk; rest of the women faced the same fate of getting employment in non-professional occupations. Career choices for women were limited to blue collar and white collar jobs. Blue collar jobs were related to personal services and manufacturing while the white collar jobs came from the sophisticated industrial state in the logistics and communication, business and finance and clerical areas where a good number of women employees could be seen off late only. There was no scope for equal opportunities in jobs in both types as was expected by the women after the end of the First World War. Women in blue collar jobs were comparatively more exploited than their counterparts in white collar jobs. They also raised their voice against discrimination at the workplace (Strong-Boag 132). One of the occupations considered suitable for women was textile industry wherein the traditional manufacturing processes were suitable for the â€Å"family† including besides the male head of the family, the wife, and the children as working in a factory. Women got their first jobs nearer their homes and familiar surrounding. It was a practice in the 1920s to offer the guide to women on such vocations by the schools, media, and employment exchanges, supporting informal traditional work setting as preferable job options. Speedier mode rnization of the Canadian economy during 1880-1920s changed the earlier informal process of taking jobs in traditional â€Å"family† settings to the formal way of recruiting by following selection criteria.  

Conraceptive use Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Conraceptive use - Essay Example Over a long period these studies have turned to be more thoroughgoing and have enhanced in analytical sophistication and size. This topic has been highly debated and researched and still being studied to find out any association between the mortality and the prolonged use of oral contraceptives. However, according to the study conducted by Colditz (1994), the prolonged utilization of oral contraceptives is found to be unassociated with increased risk of mortality of women. This research results seem to be valid and there is no linkage between the use of oral contraceptives and mortality among females as the study has been conducted for a period of twelve years. Through the design selected, the researcher gathered data for 12 years to follow the impact of oral contraceptives on the health of women. The instrument utilized was questionnaire and the responses collected then were further categorized into groups. The number of participants was 166,755 females between the ages of 30 to 55 years and the data was initially collected in the year 1976 that was followed till 1988. The design chosen seems valid for conducting a study over several years but this design does have certain drawbacks. The first and foremost drawback is that it lacks randomization thus causing imbalances in characteristics of patients. Moreover the recognition of cohorts could be difficult because of the confounding variables. Since a particular sample is selected, the masking or blinding is complicated as in the given case all the respondents were registered nurses of ages between 30 to 55 years. Moreover it is always a time consuming option to perform a cohort research as in the given research it took 12 years to get the research results. However apart from the drawbacks the design provides a chance to match the subjects involved in the cohorts thus limiting the impact of confounding factors. Moreover the outcomes of such study can be standardized and

Discussion board - research design class Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Discussion board - research design class - Essay Example 2. Distinguishing between authoritative sources and non-authoritative ones In order to write a good scholarly paper, one has to be aware of how to distinguish between authoritative sources and non-authoritative ones. One of the criteria that is used to distinguish between the two is the credibility of the author. In most authoritative sources, the authors’ credentials are normally given in detail. Other criteria that can be used to check the authoritativeness of source is evaluating the use of evidence and critical analysis of the evidence presented. 3. Examples of authoritative sources: Peer Reviewed journals UN research reports Audit reports for companies The information contained in these sources is normally based on evidence and through research. The authors of these documents are credible and the information contained in their findings is easily verifiable. Examples of non-authoritative sources: Personal blogs Social networks Free online encyclopedias such as Wikipedia Th ese sources normally do not contain substantive information. The information found in these sources in mainly personal opinion which in many instances is not backed by any hard evidence (MW Consulting, 2008). Response on Postings The first posting contains a brief and clear definition of an authoritative source.

King George's War Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

King George's War - Research Paper Example The beginning of the War was initiated by bold attack on the side of the French against the British-owned fishing port of Canso that was situated in the colony of Nova Scotia. The expedition of French regular forces that was launched against this port on 24 May 1744 found it weakly prepared for any kind of siege and did not encounter any significant obstacles in overcoming the garrison’s resistance. The rapid takeover of Canso served as a warning to the denizens of North American British colonies that they were living in the state of potential insecurity vis-Ã  -vis the impending threat of the French and their Native Indian allies. The French forces operating from the fortress-colony of Louisbourg did not stop at this initial success and continued their onslaught against the territories of Nova Scotia. The provincial capital of Annapolis Royal became the next target for the forces comprising Mi’kmaq and Maliseet under the leadership of Jean-Louis Le Loutre, a French missionary that was extremely influential among these tribes. Fort Anne that guarded the provincial capital from any attack on the land was, however, impenetrable for the makeshift Native American force and, with the killing of two British soldiers, the Mi’kmaq and Maliseet forces withdrew from its walls. The real result of the attack on Fort Anne that took place on 12 July 1744 was the increasing indignation of the citizens of the North American British colonies against the lack of military effort to stop the French attacks. The colonial government of Massachusetts decided to take matters in its own hands, and in the spring of 1745, with the support of Connecticut, New Hampshire and Rhode-Island, about 1,000 colonial militiamen launched an attack against the fortress of Louisbourg that guarded the core of French possessions in North America. As the fortress was under-supplied and the French troops stationed therein lacked necessary combat spirit, the British colonials

RaceEthnicity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

RaceEthnicity - Essay Example Immigrants and their children cross lines of wealth, neighborhood, education and profession. For example, a recent study of first year students at the University of Toronto showed that more than half identify themselves as non-white by race. Approximately 40 percent are Asians. Only about one third came from homes where English is the only language spoken. Toronto and Vancouver stand out as the most culturally and racially diverse cities in Canada, although the cultural mix in other Canadian cities also exist in varying proportions. (About Canada) In 1971, the federal government announced its policy of multiculturalism. It challenged all Canadians to accept cultural diversity, while encouraging them to participate fully and equally in the Canadian society. Many urban English-speaking Canadians supported the policy, looking at it as a timely recognition of pluralism. When the policy was announced, the Canadian ethnic mosaic was still very much dominated by those of European heritage and was designed to recognize their contribution to Canada. As immigration to Canada from the developing world increased, the multiculturalism policy had to deal with the concerns of visible minorities. These new and emerging communities were more concerned about the elimination of racial prejudice and discrimination. They wanted to ensure equal access to jobs, housing and education. (About Canada) The public education sector f... Classrooms are evolving in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal, as the majority of new Canadians, some 250,000 of them annually, take up residence in these cities. (Drummond and Lacey, 2007) A holistic approach to education is required in the light of the most recent controversies in Herouxville, Quebec, some 200 kilometres northeast of Montreal, resulting from the passage of a controversial code of behavior aimed at potential Muslim immigrants. Last February 11, six women, accompanied by a handful of male and female Muslim students, appealed in Quebec for changes to the so-called "code of life," which lays out societal norms for Herouxville. May Haidar, one of the women, said "It's apparent there is a misconception and a wrong view of Muslim women, so we want to open a dialogue to let them (the non-Muslim Canadians) know us and, of course, we want to know them." (Moore, 2007) Andre Drouin, the town councilor behind the code of behavior for immigrants, said the residents in Quebec are eager to welcome the visitors and prove that they are not racists. But Drouin was unrepentant about the code and said it will stay put. The debate over accommodation of ethnic, cultural and religious minorities continues to rage in Quebec and its Premier Jean Charest has named a special commission to study the issue. The Canadian Islamic Congress considered filing a human rights complaint against the Herouxville council. (Moore, 2007) The controversial five-page immigrants' code, passed by the Herouxville town council in January, says a person's face should not be covered, except at Halloween, and that children should sing Christmas songs in December. It informs

The Japanese Managerial System Essay Example for Free

The Japanese Managerial System Essay Takeo Hoshi and Anil Kashyap have in the last chapter of their book; Corporate Financing and Governance in Japan explained the future of the Japanese Investment and Fund Raising market. This future prediction can be assessed taking into consideration the trend of the Japanese market from 1930’s where banks and traditional money lenders were predominant and trusted, to changes that took place and led to the gradual overtaking of the security market over the banking sector as means for fund raising and investment. The early Japanese era saw Banks and traditional means as major avenues for investment and funding. The Security market was unpopular and had no regulations or Corporate governance. The investors were mere profit sharing bystanders with no rights in the companies hence the banking sector started to gain importance. The 50’s and 60’s saw the banks as well established entities with regulations; hence the Government did not want to amend an already ongoing system. By 1968, Japan became the world’s second most strong economy and the banking sector was booming. With the change of the U.S. structure, Japan too took a decision and established a securities market to provide investment and fund raising opportunities. The bigger Japanese companies jumped to this opportunity as this was a good way to finance their increasing needs for expansion. Over time, the Japanese security market grew stronger and overtook the banking sector as means of investment and fund raising. And with the turn of the 21st century, it is predicted that the future of the Japanese market will be one that is a securities dominated market. TWO SURPRISING FEATURES OF THE JAPANESE TREND Pre 1937, the principle mode of investment for households were securities. The security market had very less governance or regulations, yet they were popular. The surprising feature is the popularity of this sector even without governance or regulations. Logically speaking investment in any market that has less regulations or governance is unsafe. The next surprising feature was the Banking Sector pre 1937 also. Banks are considered the safest option to invest money and obtain funds from around the world, yet the Japanese households preferred to keep their investments in postal saving schemes showing that the traditional methods were still dominant. LINK WITH DISCUSSIONS This Chapter speaks about the position of Japan’s household and corporate sector and highlighting changes that took place with respect to investments and funding over a period of 70 years, speaking about Pre Wartime Scenario where securities played a more important role and Post Wartime Scenario where banks established their supremacy †¦ finally giving way to the securities market to once again establish their dominance. The changes that gradually took place from traditional methods of savings and investment to more modernized governed modes. The strengthening of the Banking sector contributing to Japan being established as the world’s second most strongest economy in 1968, to the decline of the role of banks and the emergence of the securities market as the preferred mode for investment and funding, establishing the future of the Japanese economy to be prosperous and optimistic, yet uncertain. References Corporate Financing and Governance in Japan by Takeo Hoshi and Anil Kashyap (2001). The MIT Press, Cambridge, Mass. ISBN: 0-262-08301-9

North America Essay Example for Free

North America Essay Canada is located in the northern side of North America and it borders Arctic Ocean and North Pacific Ocean. According to the CIA World Fact Book, Canada had an estimated population growth of approximately 33,212,696 as at July 2008. The highest population in terms of age structure was between 16-64 years with males recording a higher margin by 246,716. The population growth rate was estimated to be 0. 83% while the birth rate and death rates were 10. 29/1000 population and 7. 61/1000 population respectively. The ethnic groups living in Canada include those from the British Isles who form about 28% of the total population. Those with a French origin constitute a tune of 23% of the total population, 15% is made of American Indians, 6% are Arabs while approximately 26% are from a mixture of races or ethnic backgrounds. (CIA, 2008). Canada’s capital city is Ottawa and the government is a constitutional monarchy. One of the most distinguishing features in Canada is its multicultural diversity as well as an immigration policy that is very friendly to immigrants especially those with skills that can allow them fit well in labor market. This paper will focus on Canada’s multicultural diversity, immigration policy and her economy. In analyzing an economy, one addresses issues or features like the level of consumer spending, the exchange rate, the GDP, the GDP per capita, the GNP, the national debt, interest rates, level of inflation as well as the balance of payment. Sectors of an economy for instance primary like in agriculture, secondary like the manufacturing industries or even tertiary or the service sectors are also assessed. Canada’s economy according to the CIA is a market economy whose industrial development has overtime replaced the rural agrarian economy. Trade plays a very significant role in as far as Canada’s economy is concerned. CIA estimates that it contributes 1/3 of the total GDP. Canada is endowed with natural resources especially oil and gas as well as electrical power which places it at a better edge in terms of potential economic advancement. 2007 estimates have it that the GDP in terms of the purchasing power parity was $1. 271 trillion but on using the official exchange rates the figure rose to $1. 432 trillion. The real GDP growth rate was estimated to be 2. 7% while the per capita income was at $38000 in the same year. The service industry was the sector that contributed the highest in as far as GDP was concerned. (CIA, 2008). Agriculture contributed the least at 2. 1%. Other important economic indicators like unemployment rate stood at 6% as at 2007. The US was the greatest export partner as at 2007 and it stood at 79. 3%. Canada’s exchange rate was at 1. 0724 in 2007 in terms of Canadian dollars per the US dollar. 2007 statistics also had it that Canada’s external debt was $758. 6 billion; the public debt was 64. 2% of the country’s GDP while the current account balance stood at $12. 67 billion. (CIA, 2008). Factors that trigger immigration include globalization of markets, technological advancement especially in the communication sectors, affordable transport, safer and stable environments in terms of political, social as well as economic conditions. Canada embraces the talents and expertise that the immigrants bring to her which stirs her economic growth and advancement. The improved standards of living can be attributed to immigration. (Citizenship and Immigration Canada, 2008). Immigrants also place Canada at a better edge socially as her intervention is sought when addressing issues related to the protection of the disadvantaged for instance the refugees. (Dolin B and Young M, 2004) History has it that the immigrant friendly policies were encouraged by the government officials with the aim of increasing the countries population and consequently standing a better position economic wise. (Westhues A, 2006). The reduced population growth could be blamed on the decline in women’s fertility rates as they joined the labor force. Another reason behind the immigration policies was that with the increased standards of living, the life expectancy rates had risen sharply and the aged, a dependent population was increasing. The aged increases or rather raise a country’s dependency ratio and they are not economically productive. Immigrants are encouraged to provide a skilled work force to boost the economic growth. Others were encouraged and allowed to live in Canada due to family reunions. Unlike the US which applies harsh policies on immigrants within its jurisdiction Canada embraces or rather welcomes immigrants and statistics have it that to a tune of 13. 4 immigrants have been welcomed in a span of a decade. In 2001, it was estimated that approximately 18. 4% of the total population were not born in Canada. (Citizenship and Immigration Canada, 2008). The immigrants only work to enrich culture in Canada. It is estimated that Canada attracts a tune of 200 000 immigrants annually from across the globe. All institutions in Canada for instance the legal institutions are expected to treat all the citizens equally. According to the Ministry of Public Works and Government services, Canada treats all her citizens equally. It embraces multiculturalism. This way her citizens are proud of their origin without fear or shame as no race or ethnic group is considered as being superior to the other. Canadians are encouraged to live in harmony with each other regardless their racial background or origin. This arrangement allows all Canadians to have an equal stand in as far as the running of social, political as well as economic issues is concerned. The Canadian multiculturalism history dates back to the year 1971 when the multiculturalism act was officiated. (Minister of Public Works and Government Services, 2007). Since then, Canada has witnessed the positive effects like reduced conflicts or violence, reduced discrimination while encouraging harmony and unity among her citizens. Since assimilation is not a problem for most immigrants, it enables them to easily fit in Canada while retaining or rather maintaining their identities. An all inclusive and accommodative approach would boost a country’s democracy and consequently pave way for development in all aspects. Diversity is embraced with the mentality that it will boost a better Canada both socially as well as economically. It is argued that diversity precipitates innovation, teamwork and creativity which are important factors to consider for growth to be realized. However Canada is still faced by some challenges that affect its economic growth and development. The issue of inequality is too significant to be ignored. The Aboriginal people continue to lag behind in as far as health, poverty, education, unemployment as well as suicide rates are concerned. (Minister of Public Works and Government Services, 2007). The immigration policy in Canada faces much criticism from those who argue that it leads to the increased taxes on the incumbent citizen’s side. Statistics have it that recent immigrants will generally register lower wages as opposed to other citizens. This precipitates the need to put them on welfare schemes. The impact of immigrants on the local citizen’s wages is significant and cannot be ignored. Critics propose a reform in the selection of immigrants who are to live in Canada so that the burden in form of taxes is done away with. In his article ‘Immigration and the Welfare State in Canada: Growing Conflicts, Constructive Solutions’ Herbert Grubel pointed out that in 2000 the government spent a tune of $1. 4 billion while the figure rose to approximately $18. 3 billion in 2003 in form of immigrants welfare. A reform can ensure that immigrants are given temporary visas until they access the jobs they are skilled in instead of first gaining citizenship before they can secure jobs. Impose high taxes on incumbent citizens would reduce their disposable incomes and consequently reducing their purchasing power. Most refuges who make Canada their home or shelter are without the skills to make them competent in the job market and thus the need for government intervention in form of welfare. (Grubel H, 2005). In her article’ The potential impacts of immigration on productivity in Canada’ Alice Nakamura noted that the new immigrants are a potential threat to the country’s productivity levels. These fears arose due to the fact that newer immigrants registered reduced wages probably as an indication that they were less attractive to their employees. This could be blamed on the quality of their work. (Nakamura A, 2003). Concerns raised here were that by lowering the productivity levels the standards of living were also likely to dwindle. This paper has by and large explained the economic characteristics of Canada and it suffices to say that she has been doing well like other developed countries. The high standards of living are a clear indication of a successful economy. However the issues of inequalities need to be addressed such that no race lags behind in terms of economic welfare as well as the accessibility of social amenities. It is clear that the multiculturalism in Canada ensures freedom in participation of various sectors like in politics. The immigration policy is also to the country’s advantage but it is vital that effective measures are carried out such that the incumbent citizens are not taxed heavily to finance immigrant’s welfare. References: Alice Nakamura. 2003. The potential impacts of immigration on productivity in Canada. Anne Westhues. 2006. Canadian Social Policy: Issues and Perspectives. Wilfrid Laurier University Press, Benjamin Dolin and Margaret Young. 2004. Canada’s immigration program. Retrieved on 23rd October 2008 from http://www. parl. gc. ca/information/library/PRBpubs/bp190-e. htm CIA. 2008. The world Fact Book. Canada. Retrieved on 23rd October 2008 from https://www. cia. gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ca. html Citizenship and Immigration Canada. 2008. Annual Report to Parliament on Immigration, 2005. Canadian Immigration: Building Canada’s Future. A Vision for Building Canada’s Future. Retrieved on 23rd October 2008 from http://www. cic. gc. ca/English/resources/publications/annual-report2005/section1. asp