Enviornmental Catastrophes :: essays research papers

     Many individuals all through the world arrangement with natural pulverization. Regardless of whether it is characteristic or man made, both end in unexpected disasters.      An case of a characteristic disaster is the 1997 Red River Flood in Grand Forks, North Dakota. One of the remarkable parts of the Red River is that it streams North and discharges into the lake Winnepeg in Canada. Be that as it may, since temperature will in general get colder the farther north you get, ice-sticking is regularly a worry of the Red River throughout the spring season. The National Weather Service started putting out admonitions as right on time as February that a flood because of the spring melt was probably going to happen. Because of Grand Forks unforgiving winter that comprised of a barbarous snowstorm, the measure of snow softens surpassed. With an end goal to forestall the flood, the North Dakota National Guard dumped sand on the stream in wants to utilize the suns’ warm vitality to accelerate the defrosting and dispense with the ice-jams. Incapable to control the extreme water the surge of the century started. On April 18, 1997, the Red Rive r’s water level was at 52.19 ft high and had increased at a pace of an inch every hour following. The flood started to take out regions of the city individually, and individuals with what little belongings the could get needed to clear right away. Following six days of flooding the waterway at long last started to retreat and individuals were permitted to return. The measure of rottenness deserted from the flood was mind blowing. A great part of the property had been pulverized and essentially everything else had been polluted by the water. Everything that was cleaned out by the water transformed into refuse and many needed to start from the very beginning once more. The post-flood tidy up that was taken to the landfill totaled 224 million ton, which is normally nine months of trash.      An case of a man-made fiasco is the Tragedy of the World Trade Centers. September 11, 2001 psychological militant assaults on America bigly affected New York City condition, and the political and enthusiastic scenes of the United States. This will be recognized as one of the most stunning days in American history. Outfitted fear mongers seized four traveler streams and utilized them as weapons against the U.S.. The assaults wrecked the World Trade Center, harmed the Pentagon and slaughtered 3,000 individuals. The cleanup was an enthusiastic and arduous exertion by firemen, cop and numerous volunteers.

The Role of Mainstream Media Limited in Contemporary Globalized Essay

The Role of Mainstream Media Limited in Contemporary Globalized Society - Essay Example The force today arrives in the hands of individuals who have become both the engineers and focal point of media, and are reclassifying globalization. The key inquiry that this article, investigations and addresses, is whether the job of predominant press, considering that has been constraining in today’s globalized world and how the force move towards web based life is influencing prevailing press. Presentation Of the three components of globalization: political, prudent and social, social globalization has been the substance of globalization. It is halfway a direct result of worries with financial and political types of globalization (Robertson and White) and somewhat in view of the dynamic job that media has played in it. The discourse of Boris Yelsen on the fall of Soviet Union, communicated by CNN satellite has been distinguished as the conclusive snapshot of appearance of globalization (Beck). From that point forward, Media has assumed a significant job in characterizing, molding and intensifying globalization. Marx and Engels considered that print media, known as the Fourth Estate, would be a significant piece in the foundation of a law based open body that catalyzes social change (Kellner and Pierce). The ascent of worldwide media with satellite TV, news systems and privatization of media further united the world. Various systems got worldwide in their effort like CNN, MTV, HBO, ESPN, TNT, Nickelodeon, the Cartoon Network, Discovery, Disney, and a considerable lot of these stations were deciphered and received according to neighborhood dialects and societies. A few researchers, be that as it may, have scrutinized this impact, as social government as Western culture has been prevailing in private media systems (Jan)(Thussu). Mechanical advancesand socia media The correspondence environment of the modern globalized society has been generally based on standard broad communications, basically TV, radio and the print press. These advances have embraced the mass scattering of a single direction correspondence from one-to-many. Since the late 90s, the broad spread and dispersion of the Internet, versatile advancements, computerized media and an assorted variety of social innovative apparatuses all through the globe has transmuted the one-to-numerous correspondence organize into intelligent even linkages that interface the neighborhood with the worldwide. New types of web based life (online media apparatuses that empower individuals to discuss effectively with web to known individuals or a more extensive crowd, for example, instant messages, tweets, web journals, correspondence gatherings, informal communication destinations, webcasts and wikis, tailor the progression of messages from many-to-many. This medium has given elective intends to resident correspondence, participatory news coverage and globalization. Force worldview inside standard and internet based life Power has assumed a significant job for predominant press to make an effect on the general public. In his book, Why study the Media?, writer Roger Silverstone states that media holds the ability to impact and change the political processes(Silverstone). It is about the range, portrayal †introducing, uncovering and clarifying, that gave predominant press an ordering power over how things are seen in various sorts of the world. So also, (Volkmer) in his book, News in the Global Sphere: An investigation of CNN and its Impact on Global Communication, attests that worldwide political interchanges, for example, that of CNN International have been a dominative power in making a worldwide open circle and consequently a worldwide common society. Nonetheless,

Childhood Obesity and Fitnessgram Testing Thesis

Youth Obesity and Fitnessgram Testing - Thesis Example The examination certified that instructors can actualize this appraisal device to act and work as an instructional instrument. The appraisal apparatus encourages instructors to structure a huge educational plan that will help them to address the issues of their understudies where they show the inadequacy. The subjective example indicated that the understudies that are in the intercession bunch have a positive view on the Fitnessgram evaluation and its capacity to improve their BMI. The Fitnessgram makes understudies mindful of the degree of their wellness and structure approaches to look after it. The exploration indicated that if understudies show a full quality on the five parts of the appraisal apparatus (high-impact limit, stomach quality, adaptability, body organization, and chest area quality), they can be named as genuinely fit. At the point when an understudy is fit in these five key zones, at that point the understudy is sound, dynamic, and completely activity individual fro m the general public. The undertaking indicated that the device served the five head objectives and improved the wellbeing results and wellness levels of the examined understudies. It additionally gave Georgia a longitudinal information that they can create self-evaluation strategies that they can realize their wellness level, use wellness data to create instructional projects and choices, and build up a long-term movement for their understudies. The examination of the t-test and the methods for the free examples indicated that the members in the example were measurably indistinguishable (allude to table 1).â

Family and Juvenile Delinquency - Free Essay Example

Family is the foundation of human society (Wright and Wright, 1994). The family is the primary group where children learn core values and beliefs that will shape them for the rest of their lives. Disruption to a childs family structure can have a lasting impact on his or her behavior. Where you grow up, what school you go to and what financial situation you are in contributes to if you are more likely to develop delinquent tendencies. A juvenile delinquent is a person who is under the age of 18 that commits a crime, but cannot be prosecuted as an adult. Children who have little to no family structure are more likely to act out or turn to crime. A persons genes undoubtedly affect their behavior; but there can be no biological development without the environment playing a part. So, both biology and the environment impact behavior. The two most influential environmental components of childhood development are family structure and relationships with parents. Specifically, children who grow up in homes with conflict, are neglected, or are denied supervision are more likely to become delinquent. A mother, father and a child. This ideal family structure is now rare to come by. In todays society divorce is extremely common. According to the American Psychological Association, 40 to 50 percent of married couples in the United States end up getting divorced. With this change, more and more single-parent or broken homes exist and juvenile delinquents are on the rise. According to statistics from XXX, there were about 1,100 delinquency cases went through the court system daily. In 2007, juvenile courts handled about 4,600 delinquency cases per day. (Puzzanchera et al., 2010). This shows that in 47 years the number of cases processed nearly quadrupled. A broken home can be defined as a family where the parents abandon their children, are divorced, separated, or a child experiences the death of one or both parents. Due to parents being separated or divorced, children are not always exposed to affection at an early age. This can contribute to a childs lack of emotion and forming emotional ties to others, which may leave the child feeling out of place and having a lack of empathy. In a broken family there is more exposure to conflict. The more disruptive the event is, the more damaging the effects can be, which can result in permanent behavior. Children exposed to conflict are more likely to obtain PTSD, anxiety disorder and learning disabilities, leaving a child in a state of permanent fear and worry. Children who come from these type of families and have negative experiences are more likely to lash out and commit crimes starting at a young age. According to Single Parent Success Foundation more than half of all youths incarcerated i n the U.S. lived in one-parent families as a child. Regardless of being from a two-parent household or a single-parent household, children are more likely to become juvenile delinquents if there is a lack of time spent with their parents. Spending enough quality time with parents creates a healthy environment for the child emotionally to grow up in. In addition, children need structure, including rules, comfort, respect and unconditional love, from their parents. Even though many juvenile delinquents do come from broken families, juvenile delinquency stems from a lack of or no positive parenting. The structural functionalist perspective is explained as a framework for building theory that sees society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity and stability (John J. Macionis, 2017). This approach points to social structure and social functions that promote social order, social structure and social function. Tying Structural Functionalism to Family structure and Juvenile Delinquency, I will look into the theories of social deviance. Deviant behavior can be committing a serious crime such as, rape, murder and assault or doing something out of the social norm. Structural functionalist would say that it is functional for society that children become delinquent. Well known sociologist and structural functionalist Emile Durkheim, argued that deviance is a necessary part of all social systems. Deviance is necessary to social systems because it helps maintain social order which is crucial for a society to function smoothly. It plays an active role in help adhere to different communities within a particular society. Deviance serves several important functions. Specifically, deviant behavior affirms cultural norms and values by reinforcing what society sees as acceptable and not acceptable behavior. When a person is punished for their behavior they are seen as an example to the rest of society which leads to the advocacy of social order. Deviant behavior also affirms what is right and what is wrong. This helps individuals distinguish what is acceptable and not acceptable behavior developing a set social standards. Deviant behavior also promotes the unification of others within society. Acting on deviant behavior can bring people closer together. This is because of peoples shared beliefs, norms and values. Finally, deviant behavior promotes social change. Deviance encourages the dominant society to consider alternative norms and values, promoting social change. Robert Merton, another well known sociologist and structural functionalist found that society is set up in a way that may encourage too much deviance. Specifically, the extent and type of deviance people engage in depend on whether a society provides the means (such as schooling and job opportunities) to achieve cultural goals (such as financial success) (John J. Macionis, 2017). Merton argued that the United States was supposedly built on the American Dream. Meaning the U.S. supposedly supplies equal opportunity regardless of race, class and ethnicity. This dream encouraged individuals to gain success mainly financially. Individuals are expected to achieve these goals through hard work and education, but not all people are able to obtain these goals. This is due to the fact the U.S.s means are not distributed equally between all members of its society. This makes it difficult for all members of society to achieve financial success. This strongly relates to the family structure you are raised in. Especially if your parents neglect or abuse you, reject you, use excessive disciplinary techniques, are extremely strict, erratic or punitive, and strong conflict within your family structure. When children grow up in these conditions, they tend to fall behind their peers in building success for themselves. Your parents usually provide you with financial stability and a home based in a certain community, which will factor into what school you will attend. When growing up in poverty or an area with an overall high crime rate, children are exposed at a young age to criminal behavior. With financial stability being so detrimental to a childs well being, living in poverty is the greatest threat. It can contribute to social, emotional and behavioral problems. With all of these factors playing a part, some children will become delinquent themselves. Not everyone in society has the opportunity to attain a success story and fo llow the American Dream. The conflict perspective sees society as a complex system that is characterized by inequality and conflict that generates social change. This approach links deviance to social inequality. Alexander Liazos points out that deviant people are not as bad or harmful as we think, rather they are powerless. The power structure within a society is what marks what is deviant and what is not labeled as deviant. First, norms in all societies are written up in favor of the the rich and powerful. Anyone that threatens the powerfuls status is likely to be labeled as deviant. Karl Marx, well known sociologist and conflict theorist, states that the law and all other social institutions support the interests of the rich. Powerful people are able to abide deviant labels. This meaning that the resources the rich and powerful have, help them pay or work there way out of deviant labels. Norms that are seen as right within society mask their political character. This shows that we cannot know if norms ar e truly fair or not. Simply put, people with power, wealth, riches and prestige are less likely to be labeled as deviant and people who do not have any power are more likely to be deviant. Growing up in a family structure that has wealth, prestige, riches and power helps a child not be labeled as deviant. Coming from a family that has little wealth, prestige, riches and power puts a child at a disadvantage to be labeled as deviant within society. Richard Cloward and Lloyd Ohlin extended on Mertons Strain theory. They suggested that certain groups or subcultures are more likely to be deviant. Symbolic Interactionism perspective sees society as the product of the everyday interactions of individuals (John J. Macionis, 2017). This approach analyzes how people define deviance in day to day situations. The most influential theory under this perspective is the labeling theory. The labeling theory is the idea that deviance and conformity result not so much from what people do as from how others respond to their actions (John J. Macionis, 2017). This shows that deviance promotes people to make labels about others who are deviant to society.

The City Of San Diego - 1983 Words

San Diego is known for its beaches, numerous attractions, multiple eateries, and scenic views. Even though it is known as â€Å"America’s Finest City†, a large problem is occurring all throughout our neighborhoods. With 8,692 sheltered and unsheltered people calling the streets their home, as of January 29,2016, homelessness is one of the largest and most well-known issue throughout the city (Black et al, 1). Likewise, depending on which studies you are looking at, San Diego is ranked number 3 or 4 with the highest homeless population in the country (McElroy,2016). In downtown, where a majority of the homeless individuals reside, this problem not only effects the appearance of the city, but can also have an impact on the local businesses and hotels. As many of these individuals do not have a place to stay at night or even through the day, they often set up their â€Å"homes† in front of business storefronts, sidewalks where locals and tourists are passing by, and in any vacant street corner they can find. All throughout Gaslamp district, on any sidewalk you are walking on, it is almost a guarantee that you will see at least two or three homeless people claiming a spot on the floor in attempts to fall asleep for the night. This is not an image that can only be seen in Gaslamp District. 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Epicurean Ethics free essay sample

Upon understanding the brief and general philosophy of how to live a good life from an Epicurean’s viewpoint, I too thought that his philosophy centered around the self, how to achieve pleasure for the self, how to avoid pain to protect the self, all of which did seem very egoistic. However, throughout reading some of his theories and ideas, analyzing them, as well as reading other philosophers’ interpretations, I was able to see how this can be misunderstood if not given careful thought. This common misconception of his philosophy was widely misunderstood because although his philosophy centered around gaining pleasure for the self and avoiding pain, it also focused on not acting upon greed when on the search of pleasure, and only satisfying needs that are natural and absolutely necessary for the survival of an individual, rather than on the kind of pleasure that is achieved by eating luxurious foods, drinking fancy wines, having a high social status and indulging in materialistic things. Aside from having pleasure as the primary goal in life, Epicurus focused a good deal on how to avoid pain as well. In fact, Epicurus defines and measures pleasure not by how much happiness it may bring to the soul and body, but by the absence of pain which is the only way to achieve pleasure. He categorizes pleasure into three different parts which will be discussed later in this paper, as well as how one can have a peaceful and tranquil mind. To achieve the state of mind that Epicurus believes will bring pleasure to an individual’s life, one must eliminate all fears and anxieties over the unknown such as the power of God and how much of one’s life is dependent on the higher being. To ease these frightening thoughts and anxieties, Epicurus believed it was necessary to explain all of the unknown factors of the supernatural such as the fact that Gods have no interest in human affairs and live in their own society. He also thought that much of the stress and anxiety came from not knowing what happens to the body and the soul after death. Being a naturalist, he thought it was best to explain his theory in scientific terms that are more clear and concise rather than something that was mythical and could have been made up. Although he used the atomist theory to inspire his own, he made significant changes to it explaining exactly what does happen to the soul and the body and how there should be nothing to fear and be anxious over. Epicurus was a naturalist and adapted the concept of the atomist theory to his own beliefs. As briefly stated before, he believed that fear and anxiety comes from not knowing the unknown, such as supernatural occurrences, the concept of God, and life after death. Therefore, by explaining how the divine and all powerful works and advising one not to fear the Gods, as well as using the atomist theory to come up with his own theory so that one knows exactly what will happen to the body and soul after death, he believes that there would be much less anxiety and fear in the mind of an Epicurean. According to the atomist theory, the universe is composed of only two things which are infinite shapes and sizes of atoms, and an infinite void. The atoms of which our universe is composed of are infinite in number, unchangeable, and are unable to be cut or divided. It also states that our senses originate from atoms being cut off by objects Epicurus however, believed that our senses originate from our judgments and perceptions of these atoms rather than atoms being cut off by objects. Although Epicurus adapted this theory, he also made significant changes to it in support of his teachings on living a life of a tranquil mind. He emphasized it’s importance to prove that people shouldn’t have fear of life after death because if death means the loss of all consciousness in the mind and the dissolution of the body into atoms, then we have nothing to fear. Our perceptions, judgments and experiences of the world are no longer in our consciousness, because death is the lack of all these things, therefore once death comes there would be nothing to fear or feel such as pain because our consciousness which gives life to all these things would be completely gone. Epicurus encourages his students to live a life free from the stress and anxiety of the unknown life after death, giving them a tranquil and peaceful state of mind. This in turn contributes to his theory that to live a complete and happy life of pleasures, one must be free of all worries and anxieties, as well as avoiding bodily pain. Epicurus also believed that the source of trouble in our consciousness and what causes stress and anxiety in the mind is the fear of the divine and all powerful God. Although Epicurus is not an Atheist and was like most others during his time a polytheistic believing in many Gods, his views on religion and the all powerful God varied greatly from the rest. Epicurus never denied the existence of Gods but held a belief that Gods and human beings had no relation to one another. He believed that Gods were not concerned with human affairs and rejected the widely held belief that Gods gave us reason to live in peace and harmony so that we can be happy and live a good life. He also rejected the idea that Gods held complete control of the path of our lives and worried over us and our conflicts greatly and instead, believed that Gods had their own separate lives and affairs and were always in the highest state of happiness. According to Panichas’ essay in Epicurus on â€Å"Theology†, it is believed that Epicurus never fully justified why he believes that Gods are always happy but says that his belief in Gods came from the idea that we are all born with an innate knowledge of Gods existence. This means that newborn children don’t need to be given the knowledge of the existence of divine power, but are already born with that idea implanted in them. His supporting argument for the existence of Gods is that since everyone is born with the innate idea of their existence, and everyone already has an established opinion of the Gods, then they must exist. Epicurus’ argument against the popular belief of Gods having extreme concern of human affairs and conflicts was that Gods didn’t care for human affairs because they were extremely happy living their own separate lives. Therefore, if Gods were concerned with human conflicts and troubles then they wouldn’t be happy but rather stressed, worried and anxious, which would then make them unhappy. Epicurus’ goal in presenting his arguments using physics and atomism, against religion and its superstitious beliefs, was a way of assuring his students that they shouldn’t disturb the mind because of worries and anxieties over the belief that happiness, misery, and life after death are completely dependent upon the Gods because this in turn comes in conflict with the primary goal of life on earth which is happiness. Instead, he emphasized the importance of attaining courage through meditation on the purpose of life so that human beings can master the fear of death and the gods. A life of happiness and pleasure in Epicurean terms is defined as having a calm and peaceful mind, free of anxieties and worries, as well as a body free of pain. By teaching his students the idea of atomism which frees people from the stress and anxieties of life after death, and the belief that the Gods are not in complete control of our lives and are merely part of their own separate society, Epicurus is able to liberate their anxious and unhappy minds and allows them to live a conscious free life from disturbances and stresses of the unknown world. Epicurus most likely felt the need to fully explain the aspects of supernatural causes which society at the time thought to be controlled by God, as well as other natural phenomena such as how things came about on earth, so that people had a clear understanding of things they had not known before, and in turn no longer fearing them. Popular belief of mass society during the Hellenistic period was that any supernatural occurrences of the world such as the creation of the universe, the existence of human beings, or the world having just enough resources for human beings to be able to survive were all of Gods creations. However, Lucretius who was an Epicurean student stated that the world could not have been created by the Gods because it is imperfect and such perfect beings could not have created something so imperfect as the universe. He proves this idea in support of his argument, by stating that the world in itself which is full of imperfections, giving an example of the large amount of land that is completely useless to mankind but is inhabited by wild animals, or death that stalks every minute of our lives, could have been the creations of the divine and all powerful because if they were, then that would mean that Gods themselves are the sources of all pain and evil. Lucretius also states that an Epicurean must accept the fact that the natural world is mortal, which means it can that it can be diseased with corruption, war, and greed and follows a cycle of creation and destruction within itself. He elaborates on this statement saying the world must be thought of as a mortal body with a beginning, and an end. As stated before, Epicureanism holds the belief that like everything else, Gods are composed of atoms, but atoms that are different than those of human beings. These atoms in On the Nature of the Universe are described as very flimsy atoms that are ethereal, and can be barely perceived by the mind, therefore they cannot be touched. It also says that they exist somewhere among their own nature, which means that they do not exist anywhere near the society of human beings. In explaining this theory to his followers, he did so to prove that there is no reason to live in fear of Gods because they live in a society that is completely separate and different from ours, and as stated before, they are engaged in their own affairs and have no concern for the welfare of human beings. He stressed the importance of this because Epicurus believed that all fear arises from the unknown. The unknown as being what happens to the soul, body, and life after death, and the fear and anxiety over Gods’ declaration punishments or rewards towards human beings. By explaining all the unanswered questions of life, rejecting the idea of Gods being in complete control in the affair of our lives, in simple and naturalistic terms that can be proven through metaphysics, rather than relying on retold myths that cannot be proven, seen, or sensed, he is able to direct their minds towards a positive light in which they can achieve a state of mind that is at peace, allowing them to live their lives in pleasure and happiness. Epicurus’ view on the soul and what happens to it after death greatly varied from the Platonic and Homeric view of the soul. Unlike Plato who believed that the soul became part of a heavenly pilgrimage, and the Homeric view that the soul descends into the darkness of the kingdom of the dead, Epicurus believed that the Soul merely dissolves upon death, which is without sensation. This means that since something that dissolves upon death is free of sensing and feeling, then there is no pain, and therefore there is nothing to fear. Although Epicurus agreed with both the Platonic and Homeric view that an individual is composed of the body and the soul, and that upon death, the soul leaves the body, he disagreed on their views of what happens to the soul after death. Epicurus believes that the soul is corporeal, which means that what happens to the body and the soul is a physical occurrence, and once the body starts dissolving, the soul along with the body begins undergoing a physical transformation in which it also dissolves, the process therefore being void of the sensation or perception of what is happening. The soul according to Epicurus was mainly made of breath, heat, and air which he considered to be made of a material substance. These three elements were used by Epicureans to explain the differences in characters and moods of feeling in both humans as well as animals. Aetios sums up the functions of these elements saying that the element of breath gives the soul the power to move, the air gives it tranquility and calmness, and the heat produces the perception of warmth from the body. Epicurus also believed that the soul was made of an unknown element as well, that is much more advanced in structure and its function in the soul which allows it to feel in harmony with the rest of the elements as well as the body. Lucretius further elaborated on this hidden fourth element by stating that it is a crucial part of the soul because it provides the soul with sensation. Although the soul is the major cause of sensation, it cannot sense without the body. This then means that the soul cannot sense without the body, and the body cannot sense without the soul. Lucretius states that the soul and the body must be united for a human being to have full access to sensation, therefore one cannot survive without the other . This theory is used in support of their argument of what happens to the soul after it is released from the body, which is that since the soul which brings sensation, reason, and perception of the outside world to the body, is released from the body, the body can no longer feel or come up with reason or judgment of what is occurring. The soul however, has a more significant role in the making of an individual than the body does because if a part of the body is lost, such as a leg or an arm, the soul is able to remain in the body and still give an individual sensation, whereas the part that was lost such as a leg or an arm although still exists, it can no longer have the soul be a part of it or retain any sensation. In general, the body can be viewed as the home and protection of the soul, and if the body is destroyed, then it can no longer protect nor shelter the soul, and as a result, the soul scatters into tiny separate creative energies. All of Epicurus’ teachings and doctrines can be traced back to, and are in relation to attaining pleasure which is the main goal in life. Epicurus defines pleasure as not having certain sensations of happiness, but rather as the absence of bodily pain and mental disturbance. He also believed that pleasure and pain are the main driving forces of a human being, saying that desire is driven by pleasure, and avoidance is driven by pain. Although many view Epicureanism as a form of egoism in which all actions are taken for the benefit of the self, and although this is true, Epicurus’ theory on attaining pleasure and happiness can be seen as something that is able to balance out, and in turn, become a life of virtue. A balanced life of happiness and virtue according to Epicurus can be attained by being prudent and having a sense of discernment when it comes to pleasure. Therefore, someone who is able to do this by acting carefully when it came to the desires and the indulgences in life, and being virtuous to this belief isn’t necessarily set and done on his/her quest for pleasure, but on the right path to attain it. Epicurus believes that without the ability to sense things such as the sight of beauty, the taste of food, the sound of music, or the feel of an object, true pleasures and happiness cannot be achieved. Therefore, the act of sensation is of extreme importance to an Epicurean because without sensation, the good life is unattainable. Epicurus also states that there is nothing more truthful than sensation. This means that the act of sensing doesn’t need to be proven because we sense things exactly for what they are. Sensations are also not voluntary and are received through direct contact with an object or thing through the five sense organs which are sight, touch, taste, sound, and smell. These five senses, in turn are then perceived in the mind and can be enlarged or diminished in the mind. He then considers arguments against his theory that say that just because we sense things and then perceive them in the mind that does not always make them true. A classic example he gives is an octagonal tower seen from a far distance is in actuality cylindrical, or a tall building from a far distance may look small through the sense of sight, but in reality the building only appears to be small because it is seen from a far distance. To support his argument, Epicurus states that it is then up to the individual to use reason, logic, and our past experiences to determine whether this observation is true or not. Sensation therefore, is the basic foundation of knowledge according to Epicurus. Although sensation is of extreme importance in Epicurean philosophy, the concept of sensation still goes back to the main idea of Epicurus’ teachings which is pleasure and happiness. According to Epicurus, pleasure is the goal of all things. However, to argue against those who say his teachings are egoistic, Epicurus emphasized on the right kind of pleasure. For example, in Epicurus’ â€Å"Letter to Menoceus† he explains that indulging in the pleasures and luxuries of life is not what makes a good life, but the choices we make when in search of pleasure and avoidance of physical or mental pain: â€Å"For it is not continuous drinkings and revellings, nor the satisfaction of lusts, nor the enjoyment of fish, and other luxuries of the wealthy table, which produce a pleasant life, but sober reason, searching, out the motives for all choice and avoidance, and banishing mere opinions, to which are due the greatest disturbances of the spirit. This quote explains that Epicurus is not concerned with the quality of material things such as fine foods and other luxuries, but rather whether these things are enough to eliminate pain so that we can have pleasure. Epicurus believes that the more we can limit our pleasures and desires, especially the ones that are most necessary and natural such as food and water to survive and avoid bodi ly pain, the more we are likely to attain a happy and pleasurable life. To further understand the concept of limiting pleasures and desires, Epicurus states that when one removes all physical and mental pain, for example eating to avoid hunger, or overcoming fear and anxiety to be free of mental pain, is when pleasure can be achieved. However, it is up to the individual to not become engaged in fulfilling â€Å"natural but unnecessary† pleasures, such as eating more than needed, or having luxurious food instead of normal food. Epicurus believes that this is where we must use our judgment and good reason to pick and choose what will best fulfill our needs without being overly self-indulgent. He divides pleasures and desires into three separate categories. The first one is natural and necessary which as stated before, are daily survival necessities like food and water. The second form of pleasure is natural but unnecessary which is a pleasure that is natural such as food, but not necessary such as having extravagant food rather than regular food that would eliminate hunger. Lastly, the third type of pleasure is neither natural nor necessary which refers to fame, having a high status among peers in society, or the desire to be accepted by others. The ability of fully understanding these categories and practicing them religiously on a daily basis will direct one to a life that is free of bodily pain and mental disturbance. Epicurus defines the good life not by the presence of pleasure but by the absence of mental and physical pain. Once the main goal of avoiding pain and fear are achieved, the individual won’t be on the search for something that is missing because all pain is gone, thus, the desire to eliminate it is gone as well leaving the mind and body free of pain and anxiety. Epicurus’ definition of the wise man is one who is free from most troubles. Although peace of the mind is of extreme importance in Epicureanism, one cannot achieve it without being self-sufficient. A wise man, in Epicurean standards is one who does not depend on others. Therefore high held positions such as having political power, or even something as common as marrying and having a family creates too much stress because your life becomes strained with anxiety over the actions of others which are completely out of your control. Epicurus believes that the outside world creates too much pressure that can lead to anxiety because most of the things dealing with the outside world are outside of your control. A life of simplicity and freedom from anxiety and pain are a way of life for a wise man. When one gains complete control over these things, as well as overcoming the fears of the outside world, then one can live a happy and pleasurable life because there is no desire for things which one cannot find him/herself. A free life according to Epicurus also means not having too many possessions because owning too many materialistic things results in robberies which only lead to more consequences and trouble all of which can be avoided. However, what a wise man should do when he is in the possession of many things is donating it and distributing them to those that are less fortunate and those in need. Epicurus says that gaining gratitude from your neighbors is more important than indulging in unnecessary things. This thus proves that an Epicurean life isn’t egoistic as most critics seem to think but rather a way of life in which an individual can live freely without worry. Although the main idea of Epicurus’ philosophy is pleasure as the main goal, the word pleasure has a different meaning than the one we are used to. The word â€Å"pleasure† in epicurean terms means the absence of pain which is why a good amount of Epicurean philosophy discusses ways in which one can avoid pain and eliminate worries, anxieties and fears. Pleasure according to Epicurus has nothing to do with being in the possession of luxurious items because that is not what brings pleasure to the individual but rather a peaceful mental state or being: It is better for you to be free of fear lying upon a pallet, than to have a golden couch and rich table and be full of trouble . † Although Epicurus does not believe in a wise man having a family and advises that one should avoid conforming to society and the pressures of the outside world, he emphasizes the value of a strong friendship and believes it to be the second most important thing in a noble man after wisdom . Even more surprising than this is the fact that Epicurus welcomed women into his school and considered them as potential friends despite the time period and social standards of Ancient Greece at the time. Epicurus welcomed all kinds of people into his school and didn’t look at gender, wealth, age, or social class to determine a person’s worth of attending. Aside from not picking student and friends based on external factors, Epicurus believed that all friendships arise from self-interest: â€Å"Every friendship in itself is to be desired; but the first cause of friendship was a man’s needs . However, friendships can’t always be seen as a relationship between two people that’s driven solely on one’s own self-interests and benefits, they should be much more and beyond that. Throughout time, Epicurus believes that a friendship that once started only as an act of self-satisfaction to benefit the self can become much more intimate and grow beyond the desire to be friends just to gain needs driven by sole self-interest. He also advised that friendships shouldn’t be pushed to their extremes when on the pursuit of benefits and should not be pushed to the extreme if it’s completely void of all benefits because then, the individual would have no desire to keep the friendship alive at all. Once two friends can overcome that stage of self-interest and gain intimacy then all expectations of each other and what is needed for the benefit of the self is gone. The mere fact of just knowing and having a friend and his/her company should bring enough pleasure to the individual to not care about other things that would only benefit the self. Epicurus did not believe that sexual love was of any benefit to an individual and although it can be associated with bringing pleasure, it causes much more disturbances in the mind that far outweigh the pleasures it may bring: â€Å"No pleasure is a bad thing in itself, but the means which produce some pleasures bring with them disturbances many times greater than the pleasures. Epicurus believes that fulfilling sexual desires are unnecessary for the survival of an individual and can be dealt without, considering how much mental disturbance it may bring afterwards. Epicurus categorizes this pleasure as the â€Å"natural and unnecessary† which means that although the desire for attaining sexual pleasure may be completely natural for the individual, it isn’t necessary for survival, therefore it is not an absolute necessity. This thus makes the act of fulfilling sexual pleasure to be vain and selfish, as well as bringing disturbance to the mind. The reason Epicurus advises the wise man not to engage in sexual encounters is because the pleasure that comes from sex can be too intense for the individual to handle. When something so intense yet so pleasurable becomes a much needed desire, it is sure to bring disturbance to the mind. Another way sexual desire can be seen as creating disturbances in the mind is considering how before sexual pleasures can be fulfilled, one must pursue the person of the opposite sex and develop an intimate level of friendship or relationship. With that relationship comes fear and anxiety over losing your partner and concerns of what the future might bring. After a relationship has been developed, child bearing is the next step which creates even more disturbances to the mind, because with children come more external and outside powers that are out of your control which result in fears, frustrations, hopes anxieties and pain all of which can be avoided if one does not become involved in an intimate sexual relationship. How does one avoid mental disturbances to achieve peace in the mind? Epicurus believes that pleasure can still be attained without fulfilling sexual desires by simply forming strong friendships and developing a level of intimacy that would allow the friendship to survive solely on that level of intimacy and not self-interested benefits and needs. Once a deep enough level of intimacy has been developed, things such as trust, loyalty, and pleasure will surely ensue afterwards. Whereas a relationship driven by sexual pleasures will result in jealousy, hate, possessiveness, anger, and bittersweet memories that could last a lifetime. Therefore, to avoid having to go through these struggles in life and living a life of simplicity and freedom, Epicurus advises one to seek friendships that doesn’t require too much of one’s time, energy, and physical or mental strength. Living the life of an Epicurean means living a life of simplicity, avoiding anything that is too dangerous for one’s well being even if it is the norm in society such as getting married, and being on a life long pursuit for pleasure. As stated before, from a quick glance at Epicurus’ philosophy, one can conclude that his teachings were all self centered, however, upon further reading into his doctrines, as well as how other philosophers were able to interpret and justify some of his teachings, his true meaning of a virtuous and good life can be more clearly understood. His philosophies on how to be a wise man and achieve the good life prove how non egoistic Epicureanism is. Although it does always focus on gaining pleasure for the self, it does so only to a certain extent in which one attains enough pleasure to eliminate the pain. Once that has been achieved, going on a pursuit for more pleasure is considered vain, and as I have discussed before, Epicurus categorizes this pleasure as the â€Å"natural and unnecessary† or â€Å"unnatural and unnecessary. † Therefore he advises one not to seek these kinds of pleasures because that can create more disturbances in the mind. His thorough explanation and solution on how to achieve a tranquil mind by giving insight on the Gods and what happens to the soul and body after death are also a huge part of his philosophy. Overall, Epicureanism was a very modern school of philosophy compared to the time period, and the location of where it had been originated. Epicurus’ way of not discriminating against minorities such as women or the lower class, and not religiously worshiping supernatural beings even though that had been the norm in society, is very much like the life he preaches one should live in which one doesn’t conform to the standards of the masses but pursues a path of his own, where a peaceful mind and a body free of pain can be found.

Twentieth Century World

Table of Contents Introduction Nature Verses Technology Global Integration and Its Changing Patterns The Evolution of the Mass Society Identity and Difference Conclusion Works Cited Introduction Many people endeavored to comprehend the revolutionary implications of globalization as it continues to evolve in an ordinary arena of political expression across the globe. Impacts of globalization yielded significant results. The world was made up of global interrelatedness that kept on evolving continuously since the First World War.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Twentieth Century World specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This was because the subject was organized by comprehensible and intelligible principles. The prime principle was featured by interconnected holistic phenomenon. The conscientious citizenship needed to perceive the global interrelationship whereby the world was marked with inclusive mode l of integration; the world explored several events and issues based in global linkages. This paper examined four themes of global evolution as indicated in Mahfouz Naguib’s book Midaq Alley. First, since 1914, the world was featured by global integration and its changing patterns that led to: immense colonies and powers, the three worlds of Cold War eras, and the current interdependent and networked of â€Å"global disorder†. Secondly, the world was marked by differences and identities that showed how various endeavors of people, groups and communities affirmed their identities; a struggle that happened in the entire history. As a matter of fact, Naguib pose the question â€Å"Did you know that making a person appear crippled is a thousand times more difficult than really crippling him† (Naguib 127). Indeed, across the novel, differences and identities are reflected into manifold layers of debatable politics concerning religion, gender, nationalism, class, ethn icity, and personal interests. In fact, â€Å"the recitation of the Qur’an, and forgiveness is honorable punishment for violating the Qur’an is harsh, you know† (146). Thirdly, the world was manifested with emergence of mass society not only in terms of social interaction: mass culture, mass welfare, mass consumerism, and mass communication, but also in numerical sense of unique population increase. Alone, a man becomes vulnerable. Indeed, the author poses, â€Å"What do I see; you are indeed a venerable man?† (126). The world was marked with nature verses technology that was uncertain achievement which empowered human beings to ruin the world or to make life unbearable. Thus, in such a society, â€Å"no sensible person would persist in trying her luck if it looked bad† (19). Nature Verses Technology Technological advancement caused environmental destruction through human overpopulation and deforestation. Mafouz asserts, â€Å"had I not simply let the devil amuse himself with my neighbors while I remained lost in my own complacent joy? Cannot a good man unknowingly be an accomplice of the devil by keeping to himself?† (279). During post colonialism, there was determination to promote agro-technology in order to preserve environment.Advertising Looking for critical writing on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Farmers were advised to use diverse contemporary crops in the same farm. â€Å"Let’s remember today, the day when we got acquainted, as a day of great good fortune,† (50). It further poses the question â€Å"Are only the rich worthy of one’s choice† (138). Furthermore, Science transformed agriculture; however, ordinary insight and knowledge was able to sustain productivity. Industrial revolution in Europe, though transformed human livelihood, caused detrimental effects on ecological system. For instance, the era of the First World War was a detrimental time because it was a moment of invention of nuclear weapons. The growth of technology and science transformed global networking and human society. However, it is vital to note that â€Å"shrouds are the veils of after-life. Enjoy your shroud before the shroud enjoys you† (20). In addition, multicultural Corporations were exploiting developing nations, and minimized wage rates while exploiting natural resources in those nations. Global Integration and Its Changing Patterns Mahfouz claimed that people were able to choose contest matches they wished to view without being restricted to view sports such as gymnastics, swimming, track and field, diving, etc that dominated prime time coverage of media television. Due to global interrelatedness, sports opened the world and provided important features of globalization. However, global integration happened gradually for many centuries. The press media informed and exposed people about important events. The evolving technology enabled provision of internet accessibility. According Mahfouz, human evolving pattern involved various regional systems which promoted interaction and competition. For instance, Ottoman Empire expanded its kingdom over Hungary and Balkans between 1300 and 1922. Many States engaged in interaction was linked by social and economic needs. Mahfouz viewed that China was the supreme economic power that exported vast amount of porcelain, tea, silk etc. The economic progress of China and India were huge due to the fact that their demographic population was enormous. Transoceanic expansion gradually developed due to technological advancement. European routes were made into America during the search of economic power hence sea routes and networks were established. China was a dominant nation that held forty percent of the world’s economy. Nevertheless, this led to self indulgence as reflected in the life of Kamil. In fact, the author states that â€Å"his head to pping all this is small, bald and no different in color from his pale yet florid skin†¦.People are always telling him he will die suddenly because of the masses of fat pressing round his heart.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Twentieth Century World specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More But how will death harm him when his life is merely a prolonged sleep† (12). In addition, persisted competition led to colonial empires to expand their systems. Industrial evolution caused ecological imperialism whereby raw materials, plants and animals were transported from one region to another as people exploited natural resources. African slaves were captured during the transoceanic migration after1800. Indeed, many African slaves participated in plantations of agricultural fields. Mahfouz asserted that there were a lot of economic affairs that took place; for example, exotic plants and animals were introduce d while indigenous animals and plants were exported from America. Besides that, factors that led to quick European expansion in United States did not, however, occurred in Asia and Africa. For instance, Europeans were marred by infectious diseases in Africa that hindered their progress in exploiting African resources. Though, Europeans managed to reap resources from Africa, many died due to environmental hazards. The Evolution of the Mass Society Human population who lived in the twentieth century caused increase in mass community that was contributed by people’s interaction and movements for economic sustainability. All these implications were closely integrated that led to the rise of mass community. Though, human population developed slowly prior to 1750; afterwards human demography progressed rapidly. Mahfouz viewed that the rise in mass community happened due to increase in democratization, urbanization and industrialization. This immense transformation was an essential focus in the current society. Politics, youth culture, media, leisure and welfare were five distinctive features that were manifested in the modern society. Actually, mass society weakened traditional societal values; industrial revolution weakened aristocratic and traditional values. Mass culture was a society that had social, large scale and impersonal institutions. Identity and Difference Gradually human communities became varied with great differences in beliefs, artifacts and languages. For instance, Mr. Kirsha who owned the coffee shop is described as a homosexual and indulges in hashish. â€Å"Mr. Kirsha had always lived a most irregular life and he had rolled in its dirt so long that it appeared to him a perfectly normal one†(55). Archeological evidence showed varied tools used by ancient people and their cultural values were greatly varied.Advertising Looking for critical writing on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Human cultures were comprehended based on symbols of various devices that people created. Mahfouz affirmed that such cultural icons lacked boundaries but were marked with continues influx that competed and interacted in each other. Kirsha defends his homosexuality by retorting to Radwan that, â€Å"don’t you know who that boy is? He is a poor boy whose poverty I am trying to alleviate by being charitable to him†(106). In fact, religious civilization transformed people who lived in remote areas; human interaction transformed people who were perceived as barbarians and uncivilized. According to Mahfouz, Sheik Darwish, who was affected following changes in the ministry of education, lived in consolation of religion and faith in God! He was in â€Å"a state of peace, contentment and beatitude as he had never known before. Even though he had lost his house, the whole world had become his home. Even though he had lost his salary, gone too was his dependence on money. Though he had lost his family and friends, everyone he met became his family†(23). Societal rulers presided over divine duties to people in the society. Most cities developed thus their operation became complex that was administered by centralized governance. Conclusion The four themes brought ultimate query to prime of all historical world, particularly to the current globalization. Human interaction and competition elevated visions of human society. However, this was threatened by sudden changes in the social systems of the society. This brought questions on how people need to stay together and to attain their needs equitably, without involving in overindulgence, selfishness, myopia. Works Cited Mahfouz, Naguib. Midaq Alley. New York: Ancher Books, 1996. Print. This critical writing on Twentieth Century World was written and submitted by user Emmanuel Hebert to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.