Quiz 7

1. Access controls include the following a. Answers 1 and 2 only require employee logouts when the workstations are left unattended, prohibitions against visitors roaming the building in which computers are stored 2. Identity theft can be prevented by b. All of the above monitor credit reports regularly, sending personal information in encrypted form, immediately cancel missing credit cards, shred all personal documents after they are used 3. Which of the following can be used to detect whether confidential information has been disclosed c. A digital watermark 4.Which of the following is a fundamental control for protecting privacy d. Encryption 5. Which of the following are internationally recognized best practices for protecting the privacy of customers' personal information e. All of the above Disclosure to third parties only according to their privacy policy. , Use and retention of customer information as described by their privacy policy. , Organizations should explain the choices available and obtain their consent to the collection of customer data prior to its collection 6. The same key is used to encrypt and decrypt in which type of encryption systems f.Symmetric encryption systems Read also Quiz Week 4 7. Which of the following represents a process that takes plaintext and transforms into a short code g. Hashing 8. Which of the following uses encryption to create a secure pathway to transmit data h. Virtual Private Network (VPN 9. Which of the following represents an organization that issues documentation as to the validity and authenticity of digital identification such as digital certificates i. Certificate Authority 10. Which of the following is NOT a factor that can influence encryption strength j. Digital Certificate Length 1. What is the first step in protecting the confidentiality of intellectual property and other sensitive business information k. Identify where confidential data resides and who has access to it 12. Which of the following is a major privacy-related concern l. Answers 1 and 2 Spam, Identify theft 1. These are used to create digital signatures a. Asymmetric encryption and hashing 2. On March 3, 2008, a laptop computer belonging to Folding Squid Technology was stolen from the trunk of Jiao Jan's car while he was attending a conference in Cleveland, Ohio.After reporting the theft, Jiao considered the implications of the theft for the company's network security and concluded there was nothing to worry about because b. the data stored on the computer was encrypted 3. Using a combination of symmetric and asymmetric key encryption, Chris Kai sent a report to her home office in Syracuse, New York. She received an email acknowledgement that the document had been received and then, a few minutes later, she received a second email that indicated that the hash calculated from the report differed from that sent with the report.This most likely explanation for this result is that c. the symmetric encryption key had been compromised 4. Asymmetric key encryption combined with the information provided by a certificate authority allows unique identification of d. the user of encrypted data 5. These systems use the same key to encrypt and to decrypt e. S ymmetric encryption 6. In a private key system the sender and the receiver have ________, and in the public key system they have ________ f. the same key; two separate keys 7.In a private key system the sender and the receiver have ________, and in the public key system they have ________ g. the same key; two separate keys 8. Encryption has a remarkably long and varied history. Spies have been using it to convey secret messages ever since there were secret messages to convey. One powerful method of encryption uses random digits. Two documents are prepared with the same random sequence of numbers. The spy is sent out with one and the spy master retains the other. The digits are used as follows. Suppose that the word to be encrypted is SPY and the random digits are 352.Then S becomes V (three letters after S), P becomes U (five letters after P), and Y becomes A (two letters after Y, restarting at A after Z). The spy would encrypt a message and then destroy the document used to encrypt it. This is an early example of h. symmetric key encryption 9. Which of the following is  not  associated with asymmetric encryption? i. Speed 10. A process that takes plaintext of any length and transforms it into a short code j. Hashing 11. k. 12. l. 13. m. 14. n. 15. o. 16. p. 17. q. 18. r. 19. s. 20. t. 21. u. 22. v. 23. w. 24. x. 25. y. 26. z. 27. {. 28. |.

Environmental health Essay

Environmental health is the study of how the world around us affects our health. This can be from air pollution to global warming and everything in between. The goal is to determine how the world impacts overall human health. And, the initial information is not good. In 2005, the World Helath Organization reported that each year 3 million children under the age of five die from environmental related causes (â€Å"How Healthy is Your World? † 2005). In essence all of human health, except genetics and maybe that too, is affected by the environment. It affects the food we eat, the water we drink and the air we breathe, but too many people take it for granted, not realizing there are things that can be done to improve the environment and its impact on humanity. One of the first and most important things to improve about your personal environment is the quality of the air that you breathe. First and foremost, it is important to avoid tobacco smoke. This is one of the foremost indoor air pollutants and is easily avoidable Other toxins can build up in a well-sealed indoor environment and should be guarded against. They include chemical vapors from cleaning products, carpeting and other petro-chemical products used indoors (Landgren 2005). The problem is that in many indoor environments there is no filtration system so these pollutants build up and make people ill. Recently, scientists have found that indoor air pollution is worse than outdoor air pollution. Another important factor in environmental health is outdoor air pollution. Though some cities worldwide are particularly known for their pollution that does not mean it is not a problem elsewhere as well. In Hong Kong, for example, recent research shows that the poorest part of the city have the worst air pollution (Stern 2003). In the wake of the September 11, 2001, attack on New York City air quality tests showed heavy particulates and cancer-causing materials present in much of the air (â€Å"Potential exposure† 2003). In addition, hefty amounts of green-houses gases in the city, presumably related to the use of fossil fuels for transportation have led to increasing rates of asthma and other breathing related illnesses (Misner 2003). To combat these environmental issues, we must find ways to cut our use of individual vehicles, car pooling more, using mass transit and using other means of transportation including walking and riding bicycles. Another major issue we must address to improve the impact the environment has on our health is the availability of clean drinking water. In parts of India where sanitation is inadequate, the water is polluted and contributes to the spread of disease. In other areas, such as part of the American southwest, population centers have developed in areas with inadequate water to support the population. We must begin serious water conservation efforts and find new ways to process waste so that it does not contaminate the water supply. Another important issue to address is the use of products determined to be toxins. Though efforts have been made to stop using lead-based paint, lead levels in some areas are still too high, causing lead poisoning. In addition, a recent study shows that in areas with high lead levels, there is a corresponding rise in crime (Stretesky 2004). It is important that we enact stricter regulations to remove these known carcinogens from our environment. Lead has been removed from gas and paint but is still being used in other products and is escaping to the air we breathe. Finally, if we want to serious impact the environment around us and the impact it has on our personal health, it is important that we recycle and buy recycled products. Too many things are going to the landfill, using up previous land to fill it with trash and allowing run off from the decaying trash to endanger our water supply and food sources. We must seriously reduce our need to buy and throw things if we want to keep the land healthy and by extension keep ourselves healthy.

Inhumanity Breeds Inhumanity

In Elie Wiesel’s Night, the protagonist Eliezer enters a spiritual struggle to maintain faith, not only in God but in humanity. Turned upside down, his world no longer makes sense. He becomes disillusioned through his experience of Nazi cruelty, but even more so by the inexplicable cruelty that fellow prisoners inflict upon each other. Eliezer is appalled by the human depth of depravity and capacity for evil, his own included. Within the story there seems to be an emphasis on how inhumanity begets inhumanity. Seeing the Jews as inhuman, the Nazis cruelly treat them as animals, in turn producing cruel and animalistic behavior among the prisoners. The first example of inhuman behavior by prisoners in the story is when Eliezer and his family board the train. At first, Eliezer didn’t think the Germans seemed all that monstrous. He describes them as distant but polite. However the incremental removal of human identity and community had already begun. They seemed human like any other group of people. Over a few months time however, they became more monstrous. The Jews were stripped of their homes, possessions and dignity and forced into cattle cars bound for extermination camps. Eliezer comments on the overtly inappropriate sexual behavior displayed by some of the prisoners during the ride in the cattle cars. Such behavior presumably stems from being denied basic human respect, prompting lower self respect in the prisoners. Although hardly as violent as the Nazi’s actions, this behavior foreshadows the downward spiral in human depravity that will result from the tortuous experiences of the concentration camps. As the prisoners endure more and more horrific and monstrous Nazi abuse, they themselves become abusers. Forced into a â€Å"kill or be killed† survival situation, the prisoners often turn on each other in similar fashion to the ways in which they have been mistreated. The Kapos provide an example. As prisoners themselves, they inevitably endure the same horrendous conditions of the camps, granted mildly less horrendous than the average prisoners. Yet rather than encouraging or aiding fellow prisoners under their charge, the Kapos actually further the Nazi cause with their unnecessarily cruel and dehumanizing behavior, and destruction of hope. One Kapo remarked to Eliezer, that in the camps, it was every man for himself†¦There were no fathers, brothers, sons or friends, just survival alone without thought of anyone else. The position of Kapo symbolizes how the holocaust’s cruelty breeds more cruelty for its victims, turning decent people violently against each other in a race for self preservation. Eliezer’s narrative further details how inhuman behavior is spawned by inhuman treatment. Beaten, starving and pitted against one another for survival, sons beat or abandon their fathers. Eliezer witnesses a son beat his father for an improperly made bed, another abandon his father on the blizzard run, and yet another beat his father to death for a crust of bread. Although appalled by such behavior, Eliezer finds himself resenting his own father, feeling him to be a burden rather than the support he actually is. Even as his father lies dying, Eliezer asks himself why he shouldn’t eat his father’s rations. As the Nazi dehumanization reaches its climax, Eliezer finds that self preservation becomes the highest virtue and struggles to maintain any semblance of human dignity. Night demonstrates how cruelty breeds cruelty, and abuse creates abusers, spreading like an infection. If human beings are treated as animals, they will often begin to act like animals. There is no doubt that all humanity is capable of depravity, and under the right circumstances, incapable of controlling its manifestation!

Disease Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Disease Management - Essay Example Controlling the symptoms with just giving medicines, did not give them any relief and they were in distress. They wanted some one to talk to them and address other aspects like taking them to church or asking some dear one to meet them, etc. However, the wards were full and nurses could not spend much time with each patient. They were working mechanically with no emotional aspect in their care. The ward incharge who realized this suggested an increase in staff to the management. However, in my opinion, what the ward needed was different case management and not just increase in staff. According to Smith (2003), "case management involves an approach and an organizational attitude to achieving these ends, not simply a team of nurses." Schifalacqua et al (2004) opined that in order to realize individual fiscal and clinical outcomes, it is very important to implement community-based advance case management program. This is because, one of the keys for self-management outcomes appears to b e a personalised partnership. References MacKinnon-Schifalacqua, M., O'Hearn-Ulch, P., & Schmidt, M. (2004). How to make a difference in the health care of a population: One person at a time. Nursing Administration Quarterly, 28(1), 29. Smith, A. (2003).

Tacit Knowledge, Systems for Combating Identity Theft Article

Tacit Knowledge, Systems for Combating Identity Theft - Article Example Also devise a method for a medical or financial organization to determine its security measures are sufficient. Develop an organizational plan for information systems to address potential identity theft issues. Tacit Knowledge: Making It Explicit Reference Information: http://www2.lse.ac.uk/economicHistory/Research/facts/tacit.pdf Purpose of Study: Provide an understanding of tacit knowledge and the risks related to it. Sampling Comments: According to TACIT KNOWLEDGE(n.d), tacit knowledge is â€Å"information that the actor knows he has (how to catch a ball, tie a knot, and mark a line) but which he cannot, nonetheless, describe in terms other than its own (skilful) performance†(TACIT KNOWLEDGE, n.d.). Measures: The article reviews aspects related to tacit knowledge. The aspect of transfer of knowledge from one person to the other is the core factor in tacit knowledge. Polanyi (2002) argues that transformation of such information creates problems. Personal knowledge is commonl y used despite the fact that it is shared among many. Findings/Results/Main Points: Personal information works best when instruments used in technology are not available. Availability of machines used in communication and softwares that encourage social behavior contributes to tacit. During this process, many employees are tricked to leak secret information that lead to identity theft. Conclusion: The importance of tacit knowledge remains debatable in relation to the risks involved. Its effectiveness is noted from the ability that it lacks explicit information. Organizations need to sensitize their employees on use on internet to avoid leakage of secret information that leads to identity theft. Systems for Combating Identity Theft- A Theoretical Framework Reference Information: Ji’, S. Smith-Chao, S. & Min, Qing-Fei. (2008, August). Systems Plan for Combating Identity Theft- A Theoretical Framework. J. Serv. Sci. & Management Journal, 1: 143-152. SciRes. Purpose of Study: To examine the starting point used for organizational systems design in roles played by identity owner, the issuer, checker and protector. Sampling Comments: â€Å"From system analysis and design perspective, understanding identity theft problem and designing managerial and technological systems to combat identity theft requires a holistic and comprehensive framework† (Ji, Smith-Chao & Min, 2008). Measures: Identity thieves use several techniques to retrieve data from their victims. Some of unsophisticated means used are stolen wallets, cell phones and laptops. Social engineering is used in convincing internet users to reveal their secret information. Processes needed to stop identity theft rely on information technology and its systems. Findings/Results/Main Points: Identity theft takes place through stage managed steps. Step one; the identity thief gets personal information of the victim. In step two; the identity thief tries to misuse stolen information of the victim. The fin al step involves the victim suffers emotionally or financially after the identity thief has vandalized the victim’s property. Conclusion: The world has turned to a global village through technology. Use of internet has increased from individual use to organizations. Internet is used for communication and business. Personal information

THE SUN ALSO RISES Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

THE SUN ALSO RISES - Research Proposal Example Although much can be speculated at by this relationship, it is known that she wanted twins while pregnant with Ernest. As a result, she often dressed him and his sister alike during their toddling years to pass them off as twins. One author suggests: Hemingway regarded his mother as being as dangerous dead as most women are alive. (Hemingway once said: â€Å"I know I’d never go to her funeral without being afraid that she was boobytrapped.†) What could she have done to him? Dominant, overbearing, and emasculating†¦with the effect that the boy suffered a sexual wound, developed an androgynous sensibility, and experienced lifelong male insecurity and sexual anxiety. (Tuttleton) Agnes von Kurowsky was Hemingway’s love during World War I. He was wounded and sent to a hospital in Milan. There he met and fell in love with Agnes von Kurowsky, a nurse. She was supposed to follow him to America, but instead fell in love with an Italian soldier. This affected Hemingway deeply. Many of Hemingway’s female characters resemble von Kurowsky. For example, in The Sun Also Rises the character Brett could be inspired by von Kurowsky. In Brett’s character, he placed a desirable woman that every man wanted. This woman was not faithful however to anyone, especially the main character. The main character, Barnes felt: This was Brett that I had felt like crying about. Then I thought of her walking up the street and stepping into the car, as I had last seen her, and of course in a little while I felt like hell again. It is awfully easy to be hard-boiled about everything in the daytime, but at night is another thing. (Hemingway 39) Ernest Hemingway was married four times. He divorced three women, two with whom he had children with. One reporter explained the relationship between Barnes and Brett The Sun Also Rises as â€Å"It is an erotic attraction which is destined from the start to be frustrated† (The New York Times). Hemingway’s marriages

The relationship between internal and external customer service Essay - 1

The relationship between internal and external customer service - Essay Example Therefore, the recognition of the important relationship between internal and external customer service is increasing. More and more firms and international companies have publicly asserted that their business success is a result of their strong relationships with their employees. Thus, it is already widely accepted that internal customer service quality leads to both internal and internal customer satisfaction (Minjoon & Shaohan 2010). On the other hand, claims of the companies that their success is a result of internal relationships with employees often are not taken seriously by different stakeholders (Herington, Johnson, and Scott, 2006). The aim of this research is to provide a more detailed analysis of customer service excellence and to evaluate critically the role played by internal customer service in the delivery of external customer service excellence. Customer service increasingly becomes a priority item in agenda of many organizations. It is widely recognized that customer service is a great opportunity for gaining competitive advantage for any type of business. Customer service enables the organization to â€Å"win customers† especially in today’s highly competitive and globalized market (Cook, 2008). Customer service quality is a widely known driver of a company’s profit. The more satisfied the customers are, the more benefits the company gains. In addition to improved profitability, customer-centred organizations enjoy the following benefits: differentiation from competitors; increased customer satisfaction and retention; improved image in the customer’s eyes; minimized price sensitivity; enhanced reputation; improved staff morale; reduced costs; increased productivity; good internal customer/supplier relationships; encourage participation among employees; continuous improvements to the companyâ₠¬â„¢s operations (Cook, 2008). That is why many organizations have recognized this opportunity and focused their

Leadership in Shia Islam, Orthodox Judaism, and Roman Catholicism Essay

Leadership in Shia Islam, Orthodox Judaism, and Roman Catholicism - Essay Example The imamate history began with Ali, who is also accepted by Sunni Muslims as the fourth of the "rightly guided caliphs" to succeed the Prophet. Shias respect Ali as the First Imam, and his children, beginning with his sons Hassan and Husain, continue the line of the Imams until the twelfth. When Ali was six years old, he was invited by the Prophet to live with him, and Shia believes Ali was the first person to make the declaration of faith in Islam. Ali also slept in the Prophets bed on the night of the hijra, when it was feared that the house would be attacked by unbelievers and the Prophet stabbed to death. He fought in all the battles the Prophet did, except one, and the Prophet chose him to be the husband of one of his favorite daughters, Fatima. The Shia Imams represent the picture of both the mysterious and transparent dimensions of Islam. The authority of Imams includes both this worldly and other worldly affairs. One of the most significant doctrines underlying the possibility of the Imam’s comprehensive authority is their infallibility. The Sunnis believe that the Imams are infallible to any sin. For them if the Imams were considered to be the subject to sin and error, then there will not be any difference between the leader and the led which will paralyze the structure and operation of their religion. The followers are well advised to keep the authority of the Imam intact since though the Imam only the God is dispersing duties blessings to the followers as per the Shia’s belief. Only the Imams have the authority to reveal the hidden meanings of Qur’an. Since the Imams provide continuous authoritative interpretations of the Qur’an they are supposed to be free of any sin or error. It is a cond ition for Imam. The Imams are considered to be the charismatic leaders through their association with Mohammad as messenger of Allah. Jewish People believe in good and evils and they think that goodness

Annotated Bibliography Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Annotated Bibliography Assignment - Essay Example It elaborates on key steps such as peer criticism, observation, instructor guidance and personal experience. I gained access to this source through googlebooks.com, under the search name of informative speech. The book publication delves into three objectives critical in public speaking. This include, educating students on the ethical implications of their word, acknowledging respect to audience diversity and civic life preparation. Furthermore, the book advances advice necessary for effective public speaking and expounds on the logic behind the advice. . I gained access to this source through googlebooks.com, under the search name of informative speech. This book explains on the strategies and process that can be used by students in the process of developing into effective and confident public speakers. It offers a diverse and unique learning style that acknowledges audience diversity, ethical public speaking and taming of communication fear. I gained access to this source through googlebooks.com, under the search name of informative speech. This book highlights and describes the various challenges of effective public speaking such as anxiety. Furthermore, it offers a thorough six step process of â€Å"Speech Planning Action Steps,† designed to prepare students in effective speech delivery. Consequently, the reader is able to attain good grades in public speaking course. . I gained access to this source through googlebooks.com, under the search name of informative

Cofidis Strategic Management Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Cofidis Strategic Management - Research Proposal Example The second alternative is to invest in a web market blitz, to secure new accounts at the current rate. In either case, Cofidis should use the web to help manage differences in consumer markets between countries using data driven applications to offer appropriate advertising for each country. The recommendation is that Cofidis follow through with the idea of becoming an online credit broker centered on the family life and the home. Without changing the brand and risk losing its following, Cofidis should focus on profitable credit products while enlisting the assistance of other financial solutions to offer unpaid debtors solutions online. To secure the place of Cofidis in the future credit market, we must formulate a strategy based on numerous systemic inputs. We will discuss the strategic problem, the tactical problem, some related issues, two viable alternatives, and an official recommendation.

Recognizing Women artists Essay Example for Free

Recognizing Women artists Essay Linda Nochlin’s article tries to bring to light the differences that exist between men and women art and how this disparity has been linked to the distinct nature of men and women. However, Nochlin believes that the differences that may exist in art do not come about as a result of ones gender but rather these discrepancies are influenced by particular social institutions. This, Nochlin says, is because art develops in a specific social situation and that it is usually a fundamental component of that social structure. Nochlin further explains that art can not be considered a free self-directed activity that can be influenced by social forces since it crops up in a social situation, gender, previous artists and other things normally considered influential notwithstanding (Nochlin, 1988, pp. 147-158). As a result therefore, Nochlin states how feminity does not count when it comes to evaluation of great artists. Therefore Nochlin defines the background of some of the great artists like Picasso who came from already artist families. Nochlin also cites how the works of Redon and Corot, both male, had a feminist touch thus it could not be concluded that women art should be classified according to its own standards. This argument makes sense because art is not gender based; rather it is learned through teaching, apprenticeship or even from a long experience period (Nochlin, 1988, pp. 147-158). I agree with Nochlin’s reasoning because one can not classify art as masculine or feminine. When one sees a piece of art, what comes out is the expression captured in that piece of work and not the masculine or feminine touch in it. Therefore Nochlin’s argument is sound because even if it is assumed that women artists are inward-looking, delicate and nuanced in their art pieces, other male artists also exude such characteristics in their work. For instance Redon’s pieces were inward turning and Corot’s art was also delicate and nuanced (Nochlin, 1988, pp. 147-158). Nochlin’s position relies upon the assumptions that great art is a result of intelligence and talent. It is not merely influenced by gender, social class or any other social forces. This is true because great artists like Michelangelo produced exemplary pieces because of the talent they had and not because of social influences. Further still, artists such as Giotto became great artists even though he started off drawing on stone. It is the intelligence and talent that he had in art that elevated his work to great art (Nochlin, 1988, pp. 147-158). Besides, Nochlin’s position also relies on the assumption that the creation of art entails its own form of language. What is more, this language comes to life in paper and not in a mere story that could be told to another party thus disregarding the feminist notion in art. This argument is true because art is learned and perfected through experience and this means that regardless of gender artists with the experience can bring out great art work (Nochlin, 1988, pp. 147-158). Therefore this means that women can produce great art as much as men because art is not gender based. Art is learned and comes to perfection from a period of experience. Besides, great art is also primarily a result of an individual’s intelligence and talent therefore other social forces are just secondary factors in the creation of great art. This therefore implies that women art can be accorded much attention and appreciation if only people could get a deeper insight into what art really entails (Nochlin, 1988, pp. 147-158). Reference Nochlin L. (1988). Why have there been no great women artists? Women, Art and Power and Other Essays. Westview Press.

Pip and Joes relationship Essay Example for Free

Pip and Joes relationship Essay But the main turning point for the relationship of these two characters is when he is told by Mr. Jaggers, lawyer who defends Magwitch, Magwitch orders him to keep track of Pips finances. Jaggers serves as Pips guardian during his time in London. Pip moves to London and makes new friends and lives a different life to the one he had during his childhood then we he does come back to see the village he is surprised how much London is different from the marshes and how the people talk and act different. However while Pip is in London he shows a sine of snobbery and vanity and because of this he is ashamed or embarrassed by the arrival of Joe because he thinks it would ruin his reputation with his piers and companions if he was to be seen dinning with a simple person and not the richest and well respected people in London and because of this Pip has to change his personality, his life and most of all his morals and this effects people around him such as Joe and no longer treats him as a best friend but like a far distance friend. But while Joe is at Pips flat little objects and movements shows how Joe has started to treat Pip differently and how he can no longer treat Pip the same way he did at his childhood and how Pip no longer needs help from Joe. One of these objects is the placement of Joes hat and how much of a fuss he makes over it and also the vocabulary he uses and how much he is surprised on Herberts courtesy towards him. Also when Pip sees Joe leave he realizes something very important which is even thought he has money, respect and friends Joe has been there throughout his life and always seem to care about him no matter what and finally discovers the amount of loyalty which is shown towards him and also that Joe is not a simple man or a poorer person he is a hardworking person who deserves everything good that comes to him and a very moral man who is a kind hearted friend. Another key part of the story is just after Magwitch dies and Pip falls ill and Joe takes it on himself to nurse Pip back to health. When Pip does finally awake he is surprised to see Joe Which dear old Pip, old chap, said Joe, you and me was ever friends, And when youre well enough to go out for a ride what larks! in this short piece of writing it shows how excited Joe is to see Pip well and this is almost similar to the start of the story and it is completely different from the vocabulary Joe used in London because now he is in his comfort zone and doesnt need to act a certain way to be accepted. The whole story is finished where it starts back home where he meets Estella and decides to back to London in order to fulfill his dream of becoming a proper gentlemen and also becomes closer than ever to Joe and to his new wife Biddy. In conclusion I have discovered that Pip and Joes relationship is the main basis of the story and it differs from every event and how even in the worst of times Joe will always be there for Pip no matter what situation as he will never change his opinion of Joe. Times may change but there friendship will always be there and this is presented clearly by Dickens and it often refers to his own personal life as his father was put in prison like Magwitch and how he was moved to another village with no choice and finally his love with Ellen Turner is very similar to the obsession which Pip shows for Estella. Overall Dickens presents the relationship as thought they are live long friends or soul mates and this is the main talking point through out the story.

Economic Development of India and China

Economic Development of India and China ABSTRACT This study looks at the factors that have shaped the economic development of India and China. Starting in the 1990s, a gap emerged in the economic development between the comparable countries. This gap can be attributed to many factors including: China’s authoritarian government and focus on infrastructure, India’s focus on the service sector rather than manufacturing, and India’s late embrace of the market economy. Although this gap has been consistent since the 1990s, there is a possibility to close the economic developmental gap between the two Asian countries. INTRODUCTION India and China are both leaders in Asia’s emerging market. However, currently, China gets ten times more foreign direct investment than India. This paradox is so intriguing because up until the 1990s, India’s highway and railway infrastructure system was far beyond that of China, and until 1993, the two countries had similar GDPs. However, beginning in the 1990s, a gap emerged in the economic development between the two countries. This study will look at the economic performance, path to modernization, and political similarities and differences. All of these factors play a role in the gap that has emerged.   The globalization process has played a large role in the development of countries worldwide. Firstly, this study will delve into globalization and how the process has impacted each country differently. Secondly, we will look at what factors indicate why China has developed at a much faster pace than India. Finally, it will look at the possibility of bridging the gap.    THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK Assumption 1: The transformation of development has changed due to globalization. Less developed countries do not have to invest time and capital in research and development; borrowing technology creates faster development. Hypothesis 1: China and India have vastly different markets and political strategies. Globalization had led to massive economic growth in both, however, the different economic and political choices made by both countries have impacted their speeds of development   Theoretical Lens: This study will utilize the liberalist theoretical lens to analyze this study. This theoretical approach abides by the assumption that the driving force behind economic integration is globalization. Therefore, implemented it will lead to increased trade and investment. Globalization has played a heavy role in the development of both India and China, and can assist in the explanation of the gap that has occurred. Globalization is supported by classical economic liberals because they adhere to what globalization essentially stands for. Because this study focuses primarily on economic development, this study will utilize the focus that the liberal school of international relations has on the economic benefits of globalization.   Globalization has assisted in the worldwide spread of large companies, democratic values (India), and skill sets. China is a perfect example of the benefits globalization can offer. Their growth can be attributed to their large manufacturing export sector and the market incentives that came when they opened their economy.    METHODOLOGY Research Question: How are China and India’s different choices responsible for India’s lag behind China? Thesis Statement: The gap that has occurred between India and China can be attributed to various factors including India’s focus on the service sector, the lack of government cohesiveness, and their late opening to the global market.    Data Collection: I chose these two specific countries for a few reasons. These neighboring countries share a 2000-kilometer border. They each have a large population and similar objectives. Their relationship has transformed in many ways in modern history; transitioning from ally to rival and back to allies again. They both endured devastating famines and they are both historically very similar. One of the biggest gaps that I noticed is that their pace to development differs greatly. This gap began to occur in the 1990’s, therefore my study will focus on 1990-now. This paper will rely primarily on qualitative research found in scholarly journal articles and books. The sources are available on the internet.   The Journals utilized includes: Journal of Indian Business Research, Modern Asian Studies, The China Quarterly, Asian Survey, Comparative Politics, and International Affairs. This study also used data from the World Bank, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). BACKGROUND When looking at each countries’ current state, it is important to acknowledge their respective histories and the role that they played. Both China and India have a long history, however, their histories vary. Both were major exporters of textiles and largely dominated the seas until 1500. Both countries have vast territories and utilized this in the agricultural sector. However, China’s history drove it towards mass industrialization. China is a large, centrally run state and has a history of stability and single authority. Their country views itself as a unitary, hard state. This allows them to pursue single goals with ease and mobilize resources effectively. India endured foreign rule from the British until their Independence in 1947. India struggled to find unity within diversity and articulating an integrated vision of Indian nationhood. They had issues because they were trying to accommodate different languages and religions within a democratic framework. However, the average Indian was slightly better off than the average Chinese the first few years after India’s independence. These historical legacies have greatly influenced the political and economics of China and India. CHAPTER I: GLOBALIZATION IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES The globalization process has introduced numerous opportunities and threats to India and China. Both countries have extensively liberalized their economies in recent years and they have seen rapid economic growth in the past two decades. However, these two countries have benefited from these opportunities at very different rates and responded to the process in different ways. This is where our study’s first questions is introduced: The globalization has effected developing countries differently, why? The ambassador to the Geneva Center for Security Policy defines globalization as, â€Å"A complex process that involves economic integration, transfer of policies across borders, and the transmission of knowledge.† [1] It is a process that encompasses the causes, course, and consequences of transitional and transcultural integration of human and non-human activities. Therefore, it is evident that this concept plays an integral role in this study. Global integration has decreased poverty in China more so than in India. However, there has been an overall decline in poverty for both countries. The main difference between China and India is the inequality that has developed in India due to the change in economic status within the society. Overall, globalization and economic integration has increased the number of people living in extreme poverty in the world’s richest and poorest countries.    India India is still in the ongoing process of globalization and economic integration into the world economy.   Most scholars believe that the starting point for economic liberalization in India is began in 1991.[2] This is when the government openly sought integration into the economy and their orientation shifted. This included the removal of tariffs and restrictions on foreign trade. The Indian government also liberalized their foreign direct investment and cut taxes during this time. Although there was an orientation shift in 1991, regions within India experienced very different growth rates. This is mostly a result of the differences in foreign direct investment flow. During this time, only 4 regions accounted for 43.74% of FDI in the country.[3] Globalization caused uneven growth regionally as well as in different sectors. Growth in the agriculture sector declined significantly in comparison to the manufacturing and service sectors. If growth would have been spread more evenly throughout the various sectors, inequality and poverty would decrease across the country. China China’s rapid growth is associated with them being one of the first Asian countries to integrate the globalization process and open up to the world economy. In the past 40 years, China’s approach to development has been so successful that they are now ranked as the second most important economy. They began their economic reform in 1970s which gave them a head start in growth rate in comparison to other countries in the region. Currently China’s service sector is much broader than India’s. This includes tourism, business, and transport services. Globalization has led to rapid economic development within China.   In the 1990s, China focused on being labor intensive. They diversified their export sector to include computer equipment and telecommunications. Their manufacturing increased from 72% of merchandise exports to 91%.[4] This demonstrated China’s importance in the world economy and the manufacturing sector. Overall, the globalization process sped up the GDP growth rate in China. It also decreased their vulnerability to economic crises. It actually protected them from the Asian financial crisis in the 1990s. Different choices in history by China and India have resulted in China being a leader in economic development. This is because China opened up their markets earlier and India started in 1991. India also did not focus on industrialization. They specialized in services and IT. Unfortunately, the IT-sector does not contribute a large benefit to GDP, therefore, this growth did not result in significant growth within India. CHAPTER 2: FACTORS THAT STIMULATE DEVELOPMENT INEQUALITY This chapter will look factors that have encouraged the rise of China and lag of India. This puzzle is specifically intriguing because the countries’ GDPs were so similar up until the 1990s. This is where the second question within this study is introduced: Why has China developed so much faster? Below are the main reasons why China is so far ahead of India: China is an Autocracy. The Chinese authoritarian government owns all of the land. China’s government allows for quick land acquisition for development of infrastructure projects and to restore and rehabilitate the displaced people. This leads to faster decision making and faster implementation.   In the 1990’s China had a rapid infrastructure push and roads, railways, and airports were built. Rather than waiting for the need to arise, China’s government built for their country’s projected needs. For the most part, the policy decisions decided on are not altered by different party politics, ideology or leadership change. This allows the government to stay committed to a focus on their economic growth. One of the most successful government implemented policies is the encouragement of resource mobilization. China has an extremely strong savings culture. There are four large state banks that citizens deposit their money into. Overall, China has a faster growth of capital stock which results in rapid growth of capital intensity. This high savings rate has transformed into available capital. This capital is directed by the leadership into various key projects. This correlates to China’s focus on infrastructure projects. This capital has financed the majority of the government infrastructure projects in China. China embraced a market economy early. China experienced one of the greatest comparative advantages in economics’ history. In the 1990’s, China began to focus more on their relations with strong global powers like the United States, Russia, Japan, and European countries. They embraced market economy in 1992 and utilized their massive amounts of land. Land reform led to equitable distribution of income and wealth throughout the country. China has a strong manufacturing base. When China invaded the world market, they focused on labor-intensive manufacturing sectors like textile and apparel. They successfully transitioned from agriculture into high productivity sectors. They began to focus their orientation largely on exporting manufacturing goods. China successfully became the world’s manufacturing hub by creating low-cost electronic and hardware products. This provided a much needed boost to their economy and a substantial amount of jobs were provided. China has favorable demographics. China’s population provides them with a massive market making their current demographics favorable for a strong economy. China currently has more people in working age which leads to higher productivity and a higher GDP. However, due to the One Child Policy, this is expected to decline in the future. That being said, China’s population has been one of their best selling points. Chinese leaders organized delegations, hosted conferences, and successfully convinced foreign investors that China was stable and committed to an open-door policy. They essentially used their massive size as a selling point to increase foreign investment. Additionally, China’s population has a high literacy rate compared to India. Mao rapidly increased literacy rates within China, particularly in women. In 2012, the adult literacy rate was 96.4% in China and 71.2% in India.[5] China has a hidden source of income: the tourism industry. They host almost 6 times more tourists every year in comparison to India. This industry creates over 60 million jobs in China. This hidden source of income dominates their service sector. China has a flexible investment zone. They have a highly developed bond market where investors can easily hedge their risks against deviations. They also have the China Development Bank which heavily finances their infrastructure development. Their government has successfully created flexible investment zones, and export processing zones that are combined with tax incentives and strong infrastructure. China has a much higher FDI from OECD countries due to its large domestic market.[6] They also have stronger international trade ties with these countries. Below are the main reasons why India’s growth has been stunted in comparison to China’s: India’s growth model: India has focused predominately on an idiosyncratic pattern of development. However, they have emphasized services and skill-intensive manufacturing rather than labor- intensive manufacturing.[7] India is a democracy. India’s government politicians’ policy decision are often driven by what will get them the most votes rather than what is necessarily right for the country. Winning elections is prioritized, and things like subsidies take precedence over large infrastructure projects. This causes delays and the result is ineffective decision making. They have multiple political parties with no coherent approach to development. Additionally, the government has not provided a stable macro-economic environment. India’s main focus is on the service sector. India never experienced mass industrialization or a boost in the manufacturing sector. They still currently focus on the service sector which includes skill and knowledge.   The service IT-sector which India has focused on does not contribute a large benefit to GDP. India’s economy opened up much later than China. The economy is currently largely closed and trade is a much smaller part of its economy. Their country fosters a sense of protectionism that prohibits companies from owning a majority of a company within India. The intention of this policy was to foster native companies, however, it has stifled their growth and economy. However, in 1991, Prime Minister Narasimha Rao implemented reforms to accelerate Indian economic growth.[8] These results were short lived, and due to political paralysis of policies, economic growth was stunted once again.   India has a poor methodology towards infrastructure. India’s approach to infrastructure is to wait for the demand to arise before building. China is the opposite. India’s mall infrastructure projects have been funded by private companies. India is in dire need of a development finance institution (a lender solely for long-term infrastructure projects). India lacks the business-above-all attitude. Unlike China, India has extremely stringent environmental protection laws. This often leads to cost escalation. It has been referenced as a third world country with first world ambitions and resources but outrageous environmental ethics.[9] Trade and economic growth have not been paramount in India. Their focus on native companies and local industry has curbed and restricted foreign investment. CHAPTER 3: LESSONS TO BE LEARNED AND PROSPECTS FOR THE FUTURE What are some policy lessons to be learned? The education system needs to be at the forefront. It is important for India to maintain the current comparative advantage over China within the IT-sector. In order to do that, India must continue to reform the educational system and promote education throughout the country. Overall, the average level of education needs to increase. Additionally, specialized training can further strengthen their labor force. Finally, India’s government needs to realize that industrialization rather than service specialization is needed to reach high growth rates. Is it possible to bridge the gap? Demographically, India’s population and market will soon be the size of China’s. By 2020, India’s working age population is projected to overtake China. This is partially a result of China’s One Child Policy. The UN projected that India will have more than 1 billion people in working age by 2050. As of 2012, India’s fertility rate was at 2.5 compared to China’s 1.7.[10] India also offers cheaper labor costs, geographic closeness to many OECD investor countries, and lower country risk. This can increase their prospects for increased FDI investment. In efforts to boost tourism, India is implemented a new policy that allows for visa on arrival without the need to visit an Indian consulate or visa center. This policy has the opportunity to increase country revenue and support job growth within the service industry. Since the election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, foreign investment has been increasing in India. PM Mobi has pledged to banish India’s reputation as a hard place to invest and do business. He also plans to invest heavily in rail, roadway and energy infrastructures. He promises to create efficient bureaucracy, develop the necessary infrastructure to support profitable industries, and work side by side with foreign and domestic investors to efficiently implement their projects.[11] CONCLUSION There are various economic and political choices made by both countries in the past that have largely effected their developmental success today. This study identifies these reasons as specific pieces to the gap puzzle. When we look at these as a whole we can see why there is such a large gap in the economic development of India and China. China’s began their orientation towards the world economy in 1978, while India did not shift their orientation until 1991. It is possible to successfully bridge the gap between the two countries. However, considering the 15 year head start that China has on India, this process will take time. That being said, India’s new Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers a glimmer of consistency and productive policies to ensure India’s continued development. REFERENCES DeLong, J. B. (2003). India since independence: An analytic growth narrative.  In search of prosperity: analytic narratives on economic growth, 184-204. G.K. Kalyanaram, (2009) Indias economic growth and market potential: benchmarked against China,  Journal of Indian Business Research, Vol. 1 Issue: 1, pp.57-65,  https://doi.org/10.1108/17554190910963208 Fravel, M. (2010). International Relations Theory and Chinas Rise: Assessing Chinas Potential for Territorial Expansion.  International Studies Review,  12(4), 505-532. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org.library3.webster.edu/stable/40931355 Hall, I. (2017). Narendra Modi and Indias normative power.  International Affairs,  93(1), 113-131. Malik, J. (1995). China-India Relations in the Post-Soviet Era: The Continuing Rivalry.  The China Quarterly,  (142), 317-355. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org.library3.webster.edu/stable/655419 Nayef R.F. Al-Rodhan and Gerard Stoudmann, (2006) â€Å"Definitions of Globalization: A Comprehensive Overview and A Proposed Definition†, Geneva Centre for Security Policy, available at http://www.gcsp.ch/e/publications/Globalization/index.htm. Reich, M. R., & Bowonder, B. (1992). Environmental Policy in India.  Policy Studies Journal,  20(4), 643-661. The World Bank, World Development Indicators (2012). Fertility rate, total (births per woman). Retrieved from http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.DYN.TFRT.IN.   UNICEF (2012). State of the World Statistics, Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/india_statistics.html Wenhui Wei, (2005) â€Å"China and India: Any difference in their FDI performances?†, Journal of Asian Economics, Volume 16, Issue 4, 2005, Pages 719-736, ISSN 1049-0078, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.asieco.2005.06.004. [1] Nayef R.F. Al-Rodhan and Gerard Stoudmann, â€Å"Definitions of Globalization: A Comprehensive Overview and A Proposed Definition†, Geneva Centre for Security Policy, 2006, available at http://www.gcsp.ch/e/publications/Globalization/index.htm. [2] G.K. Kalyanaram, (2009) Indias economic growth and market potential: benchmarked against China,  Journal of Indian Business Research, Vol. 1 Issue: 1, pp.57-65,  https://doi.org/10.1108/17554190910963208 [3] G.K. Kalynarma, (2009). [4] Fravel, M. (2010). International Relations Theory and Chinas Rise: Assessing Chinas Potential for Territorial Expansion.  International Studies Review,  12(4), 505-532. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org.library3.webster.edu/stable/40931355 [5] UNICEF (2012). State of the World Statistics, Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/india_statistics.html [6] Wenhui Wei, (2005) â€Å"China and India: Any difference in their FDI performances?†, Journal of Asian Economics, Volume 16, Issue 4, 2005, Pages 719-736, ISSN 1049-0078, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.asieco.2005.06.004. [7] Malik, J. (1995). China-India Relations in the Post-Soviet Era: The Continuing Rivalry.  The China Quarterly,  (142), 317-355. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org.library3.webster.edu/stable/655419 [8] DeLong, J. B. (2003). India since independence: An analytic growth narrative.  In search of prosperity: analytic narratives on economic growth, 184-204. [9] Reich, M. R., & Bowonder, B. (1992). Environmental Policy in India.  Policy Studies Journal,  20(4), 643-661 [10] The World Bank, World Development Indicators (2012). Fertility rate, total (births per woman). Retrieved from http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.DYN.TFRT.IN.   [11] Hall, I. (2017). Narendra Modi and Indias normative power.  International Affairs,  93(1), 113-131.

A Look Into Psychoanalysis Essay -- essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Psychoanalysis had its beginning with the discovery that a person in complete physical health could experience an illness with physical symptoms that stemmed from things trapped in the subconscious known as hysteria. Charcot, a French neurologist tried to liberate the mind through hypnosis. A Viennese physician, Josef Breuer, carried this purging further with a process based on his patient, Anna O., revealing her thoughts and feelings to him. Sigmund Freud took Breuer’s method and made generalizations that grew into conceptualizations and eventually into the theories of psychoanalysis. Freud would listen to his patients, and then use these thoughts to interpret what was happening in the unconscious part of their mind. This was explained as bringing the unconscious to consciousness so it could be dealt with through therapy. Breuer and Freud’s successes with this method led to the foundational publication of Studies in Hysteria in 1895. Freud continued his practice of theory until it became the system of psychology known as psychoanalysis, a system that is the single most influential theory of psychotherapy in our time. A brief look into psychoanalysis is seen through the foundations of Freud’s theory.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Freud began with his study of the three forces of the psyche: the id, the ego, and the superego. The id is the unconscious and contains most things inherited and the all-encompassing instincts. The ego is the conscious and must control the ever-demanding id by serving as its link to the external world. The ego is a regulator and responds to a stimulus by adapting or fleeing, regulating, and seeking pleasure while avoiding displeasure. The superego is actually managed by the id. It carries the responsibility of the limitation of satisfactions and the representation of other persons’ influence, especially the influence of parents, teachers, and other role models. It also represents the impact of racial, cultural, and societal traditions.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The instincts, which are mostly a part of the id, are the cause of every human behavior. Behavior is further made up of two basic instincts that are Eros (love) and Death (destructive and aggressive). Eros is responsible for establishing and preserving the unity of relationships. The Death or destructive instinct carries the purpose of un... ...ll human failings and foibles can be looked at, talked about, and finally resolved. Typically, an analysis lasts for a few years, with four to five sessions per week of about 45 minutes each. In this way the psychoneuroses and the narcissistic personality disorders can be treated successfully in a majority of patients. Serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, manic-depressive illness, and the psychoses caused by organ malfunctioning of the brain cannot be cured by psychoanalytic treatment, though the patient can often benefit from psycho-pharmacological treatment – sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-depressants-- in combinations with psychotherapy.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The longevity of success using psychoanalysis becomes a testimony to Freud’s in-depth study of the human mind. His forty plus years of work in the field were spent on the development of the main principles of psychoanalysis along with the techniques and methods used by the analyst. His work was furthered by his daughter and later adopted then adapted by Erikson. What seemed so revolutionary in the 1890’s and beyond has now become widely accepted by most all schools of psychological thought and its study.

Essay --

Prof. D. Wallace Kristian Papa Final Essay – 1 William Wells Brown & Frederick Douglass During the beginning of XVII century slaves narratives started to take another meaning. They were no longer writing just about their sufferings and how bad were their mistress. At this period we notice that famous narrative writers such as, Frederic Douglas and William Wells Brown, were focusing their writings on the importance of literacy. Their narratives are important for the fact that, now they want to make slaves to reflect about their situation. Later we are going to see how both of them, in a way, connect literacy with freedom. â€Å"Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.†(Douglass, ***) This was the importance that Douglass gave to literacy. He thinks that now it’s the time when slaves should react. He sees as no other way to save their souls and lives, but to stand against their slaveholders for their rights. He reminds them that: â€Å"I prayed for freedom for twenty years, but received no answer until I prayed with my legs† and â€Å"Without a struggle, there can be no progress.† (Douglass, ***) Adding this thoughts and actions to his narrative he prays also for the other slaves, so they will find the force to escape as Douglass did. We can see this call for freedom that should come from within the slave society, also in Wells Brown. "The last struggle for our rights, the battle for our civilization, is entirely with ourselves." (William Wells Brown, ***) The same as Douglass he points out that the problem is no more in the white society. The problem is that slaves are doing nothing to help themselves. On Wells Brown writing we can see also the fear that he feels when he argues that his people, along with their nation, are losi... ...nterpret Douglass stamen as a fear that whites felt. They felt fear from literacy. Somehow they see literacy as the rising of slaves and the ruining of whites. They saw literacy as the bridge that was destroyed from slave-owners in order to fit slaves in that category. They were afraid that literacy will bring freedom to slaves. In conclusion I would like mention the importance of literacy. We have seen that, that period, literacy was important in different ways. Literacy helped slaves to show to the world their sufferings, mistreatment and how they rights were taken away. Through their narratives they were able to start the â€Å"Abolitionist move† that was against slavery. Literacy, helped also in the conquest of slaves freedom. Through literacy they understood their rights and they saw that the gap that separated slaves form a free man was exactly, Literacy.

Its Time to Ban Smoking in America :: Argument Argumentative

It's Time to Ban Smoking in America   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Although smoking is a proven killer, Americans waste Billions of dollars each year on tobacco products. Other drugs that are harmful, such as crack or marijuana, are illegal in the United States. However, the use of cigarettes, which kills millions worldwide annually, is perfectly legal. If certain harmful substances are illegal, then cigarettes should not be permitted either.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Smoking has several harmful effects on the body. Cigarettes cause eighty-five percent of lung cancer and are responsible for thirty percent of all deaths resulting from cancer. (Bartecchi, 49) People who have smoked for a significant period of time will have noticeable problems breathing and will most likely be in poor health. One out of four deaths of people thirty-five to sixty- four years old result from smoking. On the average, every cigarette takes five and a half minutes of life away from a smoker. (Bartecchi, 46) Although restrictions have been placed on the use of cigarettes in public areas such as restaurants and airplanes, the US has yet to place a ban on smoking. The government frequently inspects items sold to the American public. Commercial products that may be dangerous such as food, cars, and toys have been recalled in order for alterations. In the August 1995 issue of consumer reports, twenty- four products were recalled because of possible dangers to the consumer. These products included a car that may lose a wheel while in motion, a hair dryer that poses a fire hazard, and cookies that can cause an allergic reaction. (Consumer Reports, 500) Yet, the sale of cigarettes, known to be unsafe, has never been prohibited by the government. Why are cigarettes any different from other products sold in the US.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Cigarettes are not only harmful to users, but are also damaging to all people in the vicinity of a smoker. Second hand smoke from cigarettes is just as damaging as smoke inhaled by users. Each year, 53,000 people die from the effects of second hand smoke. A person living with a spouse who smokes has a thirty percent higher chance of getting lung cancer. (Bartecchi, 49) Parents who smoke force their children to breathe the fumes every day. Seventeen percent of lung cancer is attributed to people who grew up with parents who were smokers. Children of smokers have a lower birth rate and are often less intelligent. (Bartecchi, 49) People who have chosen to smoke have accepted the unhealthy risk of the drug. However, nonsmokers have not opted for the hazards involved with smoking and therefore should not be introduced to these hazards.

Workplace Honesty: Learning and Unlearning

Honesty is a virtue that is of major importance especially in business, yet very much neglected in the context of today’s rat race. Employees play a big role in uplifting the culture of honesty in their workplaces, a culture that is nevertheless radiated to the clients or end-users of the company’s offerings. But what if the employees are having problems with their own attitudes toward honesty? What can a company do to help maintain a culture of trust and trust worthiness among the employees, the management, and the customers as a whole? Who wins when a company wins over the battle for an honest corporate culture?This was the problem of Gerald Sy. Managing a training institution, Sy discovered that his instructors were cheating him on their timekeeping, costing him big sums for a long time because he was paying the instructors in full despite rampant tardiness. Sy moved against the problem and devised a process of accounting the instructor’s timekeeping even if i t meant additional work for him and additional time needed on his timeframe to process the salaries.As if that was not enough, he also ruled an 11-tardiness per month standard wherein whoever fails to meet the regulation shall be dismissed. This showed that it was not the money that the company can save from deductions which was important. On the contrary, it was the standards of the company, and how the employees uphold it, and how the final service is perceived by the customers. Sy expects that the measure will work, and is ready to evaluate if it really did.Dishonesty in Many FormsThere are many forms of dishonesty in the workplace. Most are as petty as stealing a paper clip from one’s officemate (no one saw anyway) or breaking down the coffee machine and not admitting it (it could be broken before I used it, I would not really know). It was easy to be dishonest in the workplace because people often mind their own businesses while at the peak of work. No one will ever both er to watch after an officemate making coffee to see if he will break the machine at some chance.Steven Gaffney, the writer behind Honesty Works!, states that it is not only lies and dishonesty that costs companies most of its revenues. He insists that the mere fact that many employees cannot honestly communicate with each other has wasted time, money and effort of employees and businesses. (Newswise, 2005) When a worker avoids a confrontation about an operational flaw with a co-worker to avoid conflict, the flaw will stay unresolved and may even result in bigger loopholes.Small lies also often lead to bigger dishonesties that are harder to get away with. Personnel who steal equipment from their companies, or money, or even work hours are nothing new in many workplaces. They are so common, yet they still do not fail to surprise. Some get away, yet some are caught to pay the big price of cheating. The problem with honesty, or the lack thereof, is that it becomes vicious. The more a p erson commits a work of dishonesty and gets away with it, the harder it is to be honest. The bottom line is how to end the vicious cycle.Can Honesty be Taught?From a young age, almost every child is taught basic values that are essential for living. One of these values is honesty. It is easier for children to understand its value, and when they learn it they often grow with it. Michael Daigneault agrees. However, he states that factors affecting the workplace, such as workplace pressure and competition, will require a person to have bedrock values to maintain righteousness. Otherwise, he will be tempted to sway away from childhood-learned ethics. (HR Magazine, 1999)Rigterink and Louzecky (n.d.) also concludes that virtue can be taught but do not agree that it should be taught as other academic subjects are taught. Moderation, they said is an important key. Teaching honesty, the authors propose, should convert the subjects into thinkers, analyzing the absorption of the value and its advantages before really absorbing it.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   They assert that doing so will instill the value into the subjects more than when it is taught outright.End of the GameIf honesty like other values can not be taught in its simplest sense, how then can companies promote honesty? First, we should consider how a virtue is instilled. Fact is, ethics is not automatically learned. You can tell a hardened criminal to change his ways and there are chances that he will, but given a chance to strike a crime again there is definitely a slim chance for him to decline the opportunity.Thus, virtues are imbibed through practice. As aforementioned, the more a person practices the act of honesty the stronger it stays within his values and the harder it is to break. On the same way, the more a person cheats the harder for that person to be honest and break from the bondage of lies.The management is the best venue for a company to start promoting honesty. A company needs to be led by honest b oard of directors, managers, supervisors, team leaders, however the heads are called. If the top of the pyramid is governed by upright people, it is easier for the leaders to impose rules on moral values to the base of the pyramid. Honesty in this level may be showed by transparent management of funds, upfront and realistic relations with the subordinates, and open communication lines.A boss of a company who is married and is caught by his employees cheating on his wife will definitely drive down the morale of his people. His employees will be tempted to resolve in idle talk about him and his affair and forget about work altogether since the boss is not acting very boss-like anyway. Given that that is in a personal level, consider a scenario were the act of a boss’s dishonesty is on a professional scale.For instance, a manager was audited and the auditors discover that he was paying ten people in the payroll whereas there are actually only five people in his department who is actually reporting for work. The event will definitely pull down the confidence and team spirit of the five people in his team. Moreover, the manager himself will lose the drive to work for shame and guilt. Ultimately, it is not the manager or the employees who are the only ones who will suffer. The company as a whole loses considerable work time and revenue, just because of a single act of dishonesty from just one person. It is therefore safe to conclude that honesty is an individual decision that has collective effects.It is also important that the company verbalize subscription to a value. If the management discovers major flaws on dishonesty, the management can choose to make honesty a core value in the company. They will then need to define honesty in the context of their workplace, and define it as specific as possible. Does it mean creatively communicating issues and problems? Does it include choosing not to engage in secrets that may hurt co-employees? How does it affect cl auses on confidentiality?When the management has defined the core value to subscribe to, it is important that they communicate this decision to every person in the company. A general assembly as well as departmental meetings will be a great help. In doing so, an open forum should be encouraged so that questions can be immediately answered and reactions can be resolved.For continuity, it is equally important that people are trained about—not taught on—moral values. From the moment that a person is oriented on the vision, mission, and goals of the company, to the time that he is undergoing annual trainings within the organization, the value system of the company should be stressed and internalized by them. First, it is a good way to make them feel that they belong to the organization. Secondly, it will help them find a basis for actions and decision making processes. Learning good values at work will also make them worthwhile people even if they are out of the workplace, which is important especially because employees represent their companies.The orientation is another good venue for value formation. Each newly hired employee should be made familiar with issues in the company and how the management is resolving them. Values should be highlighted. Thorough discussion on how the management is working against it shall be made and stress that honesty is a very important virtue for anyone wishing to join the company. This will imply the value of such virtue in the company without being popish.Annually, it will help if value system is integrated in annual improvement seminars for employees usually done after evaluation periods. The training should discuss the ethical standards that the company subscribes to, and how each employee is expected to follow through. Lapses shall also be discussed along with solutions that can be done to prevent the occurrence of such ethical issues from arising again.It is still easier said than done. However a company makes efforts on promoting honesty, it is still virtually impossible to create a cheat-free workplace. Even if a company is good, employees will have their own attitudes to live with—employees will always undergo circumstances where they will be pressed on engaging into an act of dishonesty. It is therefore important for a company to follow through and have an open eye to see to it that their core value is being followed and respected for its benefit and for the welfare of its employees and customers.Mission Accomplished?It is hard to be honest in the corporate environment. Oftentimes the ones who are honest are the ones who are left behind, or even smeared with nasty labels and judgments. However, it is important for companies to promote the value of honesty because it greatly affects the company, employees, as well as the customers.If a company succeeds in achieving an honest workplace, the employees can enjoy a harmonious working relationship with each other. This will make them more productive and beneficial for the company. The company, in return, will maximize its potentials and prevent loss of revenue. It may even gain more. An honest workplace also reflects honesty with its customers. As such, customers will feel comfortable in transacting with the company and can become long-term clients.The company should anticipate failure in promoting honesty, though, and should be prepared in making follow-up actions. When failure occurs, an evaluation should be done identifying the weak points of the plan. This will enable determination of follow-up plans and corrective actions to try. Research and study is essential, as well as patience and determination by the company and the proponents of the core value being promoted.ConclusionHonesty is a choice. If the company chooses to be honest, and it can convince its employees to choose to be honest, there is more chance for such culture to exist and benefit the people surrounding the business. While it can be taught, it is still up to every person in the company to use such knowledge. It is therefore important to make them think and realize the value of honesty to them, to their work, and to their clients. After all, it is the best policy.BibliographyHR Magazine. 1999. Teaching business character. Retrieved February 15, 2007Newswise. 2005. Honesty in the workplace sorely lacking. Retrieved February 14, 2007 from http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/516781/Roger, R. Louzecky, D. n.d. Can virtue be taught? If so, should it be thought? Retrieved February 13, 2007

e-Commerce web solutions Essay

Ecommerce stores that have been uniquely designed and developed with rich features have created success for online merchants from across diverse industries. With Agile project management and 10+ years of development experience, we deliver a go live version soon to help our customers start generating revenue as soon as possible. Attractive and easy user interface design is the expertise of the talented team and developing the required features. We have been successfully delivering e-stores that are highly appreciated by our clients as well as the customers who shop with them. While developing, the key focus remains on the aesthetics of the store which eventually attracts customers, gives them a smooth shopping experience and increases the chances of making a purchase. Once an ecommerce portal solution is up and running, it is then time to make sure that the general public knows about the ecommerce website and the business. This can happen with the help of search engine promotion for an ecommerce website which is not same as a normal static website. Since the site has got dynamic pages and products, a different strategy has to be worked upon in order to achieve the publicity results. Kenovate Solutions has been delivering the ecommerce search engine optimization services along with the development and hence have been a perfect choice for one-store-shop for ecommerce development and search engine optimization. With over 100+ websites developed, 40+ application software delivered and 50+ live sites hosted for a range of industries and verticals over the last 10+ years, Kenovate Solutions is serving web solution needs for early adopter entrepreneurs, startups and SMEs in domestic & international web domain. Kenovate Solutions specializes in developing web portals, intranets, e-commerce solutions, and web / online applications those are used to streamline functionality and ease of use. Kenovate’s clients include a wide range of domains such as education, finance, FMCG, healthcare, hospitality, international development agencies, manufacturing, non-governmental, research agencies, real estate, retail, travel and tourism etc.

Psychological Disorders Essay

Psychological Disorder Analysis This psychological analysis is about Maria a 42 year old Hispanic female who comes into the mental health clinic complaining of feeling jumpy all of the time, she has trouble sleeping and is enable to concentrate on her work as an accountant. These symptoms are causing problems for her at work. There can be many causes for her symptoms but to get to the root of her issue a clinical assessment, diagnoses, and proper treatment for her disorder will be submitted. Maria comes into the clinic complaining of having trouble sleeping, feeling jumpy all the time, she has trouble concentrating on her work which seems to be causing an issue. A clinical interview is done first on Maria to attain some background information. Clinical interviews questions are 1. What brings her to the clinic? 2. When did these feelings start and did an event trigger them? 3. Do these feelings last long? 4. What is her relationship with her parents? 5. What is her relationship with her siblings? 6. What type of work does she do? 7. What are her romantic relationships like? 8. What was her childhood experiences like? 9. What makes her happy? 10. Does she have any medical problems or medication she is taking? A possible disorder is causing her symptoms. Because information was not given concerning her background, family or social life Maria’s symptoms coincide with Dysthymic Disorder with major depression (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Dysthymic Disorder is known as double depression (Comer, 2011). It has symptoms of chronic and low level depression which reduces one’s ability to function. Some individuals with Dysthymia experience insomnia, or hypersomnia, poor appetite and overeating. They also experience poor concentration or have difficulty making decisions. Some fail to attend to daily hygiene, some experience low energy and low self esteem which cause them to overlook their daily duties or job responsibilities (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Most say they have been unhappy or sad all of their lives which cause them not maintain healthy relationships (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Dysthymia also causes changes in feeling, thinking, and physical well-being (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Dysthymic disorder share symptoms with major depression. Both disorders share symptoms such as sleep difficulties, shyness, and social withdrawal; poor work performance,  irritability, and conflict with family and friends (University Of Phoenix, 2007). The main difference between the two disorders is the intensity and duration of the disorder. With major depression symptoms are more severe such as the individual may be so depressed they cannot get out of bed and have thoughts of suicide whereas with Dysthymia the depression is more muted where the person is able to function on some level, he or she may be getting out of bed, but they may not groom themselves (University Of Phoenix, 2007). The other difference is major depression needs episodes that last for at least two weeks whereas dysthymic disorder symptoms persist for at least two years (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Major depression is also common with minorities. Minority groups that live below poverty or come from family wh ose environment was impoverished tend to suffer from depression in higher numbers (Comer, 2011). Gender also plays a role in major depression women are twice as likely as men to receive a diagnosis of depression (Comer, 2011). To assess her case the DSM-IV is used. According to what Maria says her symptoms meet the criteria on the DSM-IV. Maria must display two of her symptoms for a period of 2 weeks or longer (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Maria did not indicate in this case study how long she had been experiencing symptoms. The case study did not indicate Maria’s dress condition or hygiene neither did it indicate that she was shy or socially withdrawn. Maria may have developed dysthymic disorder through a behavioral process called learned helplessness. (University Of Phoenix, 2007). During an experiment dogs were placed in a cage with barricades and were exposed to a stimulus light which was followed by a shock (University Of Phoenix, 2007). They learned quickly through classical conditioning to fear the light (University Of Phoenix, 2007). In phase two of the experiment the shock was turned off and when the first group of dogs was exposed to the light they jumped over the barricade jumping to safety (Comer, 2011). When the second group of dogs encountered a large barrier they could not jump from the fear producing light to safety. When the light came on they ran around the cage barking and when they discovered escape was impossible they lay down and whimpered (University Of Phoenix, 2007). In ph ase 3 of this experiment all the barriers were removed, and the dogs could escape easily however, when the light came on the dogs that had been trapped made no effort to leave the cage, instead they lay down and whimpered (University Of Phoenix, 2007). What the experiment revealed is the dogs learned that even though they can escape nothing they can do will improve their conditions so in effect the dogs learned to be helpless (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Because Maria is Hispanic the multicultural perspective plays a role. Because of social norms, family structure, and background this should be all taken into account with minorities. Maria probably grew in an impoverish environment. Research shows that Hispanics are more likely to live a poorer environment that White American (Comer, 2011). Maria may feel that her life was precondition to remain this way even though she has made a life for herself as an accountant. Just like the dogs in her thinking she feels nothing she can do will change her conditions, even though she has opportunities to improve her life she has learned to be helpless which makes her sad and depressed which are symptoms of the disorder (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Multicultural research also shows that prejudice and discrimination against multicultural groups leads to higher anxiety and depression in minorities (Comer, 2011). Other probably causes for Maria’s disorder is a biological imbalance or hormonal imbalance like those seen in major depression. Biological theorist believes abnormal behavior as an illness is brought on by a malfunctioning organism in the brain or brain chemistry (Comer, 2011). The brain is made up of billions of nerve cells called neurons (Comer, 2011). When an electrical impulse reaches a neuron it is stimulated to release a certain chemical called a neurotransmitter which travels to receptors (Comer, 2011). These receptors travel to other neurons telling them to fire or not fire (Comer, 2011). Neurotransmitters play a key role in carrying information through the brain. In Maria’s case her neurotransmitters may be defective causing her symptoms (Comer, 2011). A hormonal imbalance can also trigger depressio n (Comer, 2011). A woman’s biological life changes as she ages triggering different hormone levels (Comer, 2011). Although hormonal changes cannot alone cause depression alone important social and life events that occur with puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can (Comer, 2011). To treat dysthymic disorder biological treatments such as psychotherapy and medications like Prozac and Tofranil have proven to be helpful in reducing symptoms (University Of Phoenix, 2007). A variety of psychotherapeutic approaches can work as well. Cognitive behavioral therapy can challenge Marias unrealistic ideas,  pessimistic expectations and self-critical evaluations (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Therapy can help her to have a more positive outlook on her life, and can help her to prioritize both opportunities and challenges concerning her life (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Multicultural treatments such as culture-sensitive therapy can be used in which the therapist addresses issues faced by minority groups (Comer, 2011). In addition behavioral oriented therapy can help her adapt better coping skills and help her communicate more effectively with friends and coworkers (University Of Phoenix, 2007). In this case study Maria went to the mental health clinic complaining of having trouble sleeping, feeling jumpy all the time, an inability to concentrate on her work as an accountant. Interview questions were asked which lead to a diagnosis of dysthymic disorder with major depression. Probable causes for her disorder are rooted in a neuro chemical imbalance or a learned helplessness from her environment (University Of Phoenix, 2007). Treatment for dysthymic disorder is psychotherapy and medication to reduce the symptoms (University Of Phoenix, 2007).

The Return: Midnight Chapter 41

Stefan didn't move or speak for long moments. Elena's heart swelled. Suddenly she was as afraid as he clearly was. She went to him and took both his hands, which were shaking. Darling, don't cry, she sent. There must still be time to save Fell's Church. There must. It can't end this way. And besides, Shinichi is gone! We can get to the children; we can break the conditioning†¦Ã¢â‚¬  She stopped. It was as if the word â€Å"conditioning†echoed in her ears. Stefan's green eyes were fil ing her vision. Her mind was getting†¦it was getting fuzzy. Everything was becoming unreal again. In a minute she wouldn't be able to†¦ She wrenched her eyes away, breathing hard. â€Å"You were Influencing me,†she said. She could hear the anger in her own voice. â€Å"Yes,†Stefan whispered. â€Å"I've been Influencing you for half an hour.† How dare you? Elena thought, just for him. â€Å"I'm stopping it†¦now,†Stefan said quietly. â€Å"As am I,†Sage added, sounding exhausted. And the universe did a slow spin and Elena remembered what it was that they were al keeping from her. With a wild sob, she rose, scattering droplets, coming to her feet like an avenging goddess. She looked at Sage. She looked at Stefan. And Stefan proved how brave he was, how much he loved her. He told her what she already knew. â€Å"Damon is gone, Elena. I'm so sorry. I'm sorry if†¦if I kept you from being with him as much as you wanted to. I'm sorry if I came between you. I didn't understand – how much you loved each other. I do now.†And then he dropped his face into his hands. Elena wanted to go to him. To scold him, to hold him. To tel Stefan that she loved him just as much, drop for drop, grain for grain. But her body had gone numb, and the darkness was threatening again†¦al she could do was hold out her arms as she crumpled onto the grass. And then somehow Bonnie and Stefan were both there, the three of them al sobbing: Elena with the intensity of new discovery; Stefan with a lost sound that Elena had never heard before; and Bonnie with a dry, wrenching exhaustion that seemed to want to shatter her smal body. Time lost al meaning. Elena wanted to grieve for every moment of Damon's painful death, and for every moment of his life, too. So much had been lost. She couldn't get her head around it, and she didn't want to do anything but cry until the kind darkness took her mind again. That was when Sage broke. He grabbed Elena and pul ed her up, and shook her by the shoulders. It snapped her head back and forth. â€Å"Your town is in ruins!†he shouted, as if this was her fault. â€Å"Midnight may or may not bring disaster. Oh, yes, I saw it al in your mind when I went in to Influence you. Little Fel ‘s Church is already devastated. And you won't even fight for it!† Something blazed through Elena. It melted the numbness, the iciness. â€Å"Yes, I'l fight for it!†she screamed. â€Å"I'l fight for it with every breath in my body, until I stop the people who did it, or until they kil me!† â€Å"And how, puis-je savoir, wil you get back in time? By the time you walk back the way you came, it wil al be over!† Stefan was beside her, bracing her, shoulder to shoulder. â€Å"Then we'l force you to send us some other way – so that we can get back in time!† Elena stared. No. No. Stefan couldn't have said that. Stefan didn't force his way – and she wouldn't have him changing himself. She whirled back on Sage. â€Å"There's no need to fight! I have a Master Key in my backpack, and magic works here inside the Gatehouse!†she cried. But Stefan and Sage were staring each other down, each fierce and intent. Elena wanted to go to Stefan but the world was doing another of its slow somersaults. She was afraid that Sage would attack Stefan, and that she couldn't even fight for him. But instead, suddenly, Sage threw back his head and laughed wildly. Or perhaps it was something between thunderous laughing and crying. It was as eerie as the sound of a wolf baying, and Elena felt Bonnie's smal , trembling body hug her – to comfort both of them. â€Å"What the hel !†Sage bel owed, and now there was a wild look in his eyes, too. â€Å"Mais oui, what the Hell?†He laughed again. â€Å"After al , I am the Gatekeeper, and I have already broken the rules by al owing you through two different doors.† Stefan was Stillbreathing hard. Now he reached out and grabbed Sage by his broad shoulders and shook him with the strength of a vampire gone mad. â€Å"What are you talking about? There's no time for talk!† â€Å"Ah, but there is, mon ami. My friend, there is. What you need is the firepower of the heavens to save Fel ‘s Church – and to undo the damage that has already been done. To wipe it out, to make it as if it had never happened. And,†Sage added deliberately, looking directly at Elena, â€Å"perhaps – just perhaps – to undo this day's events, also.† Suddenly every inch of Elena's skin was tingling. Her whole body was listening to Sage, leaning toward him, yearning, while her eyes widened with the only other question that mattered. Sage said, very softly, very triumphantly, â€Å"Yes. They can bestow life upon the dead. They have that Power. They can bring back mon petit tyran Damon – as they brought you back.† Stefan and Bonnie were holding Elena up. She couldn't stand on her own. â€Å"But why would they help?†she whispered painful y. She wouldn't al ow herself even a breath of hope, not until she understood everything. â€Å"In exchange for what was stolen from them mil ennia ago,†Sage replied. â€Å"You are in a fortress of Hel , you know. That is what the Gatehouse is. The Guardians cannot enter here. They cannot storm the gate and demand back what is inside†¦the seven – pardon, now six – kitsune treasures.† Not a breath of hope. Not a breath. But Elena heard herself give a wild laugh. â€Å"How do we give them a park? Or a field of black roses?† â€Å"We give them the rights to the land that the park and the field of roses lie upon.† Not a breath, even though the bodies on either side of Elena were shaking now. â€Å"And how do we offer them the Fountain of Eternal Youth and Life?† â€Å"We do not. However, I have here various containers, waiting to be col ected as garbage. The threat of a gal on bottle of La Fontaine randomly spread al over your Earth†¦that would devastate them. And, of course,†Sage added, â€Å"I know the kinds of gems with enchantments already upon them that they would most desire. Here, let me open the doors al at once! We take al we can – the rooms, strip them bare!† His enthusiasm was contagious. Elena half-turned, breath held, eyes widened to catch the first glowing of a door's light. â€Å"Wait.†Stefan's voice was hard suddenly. Bonnie and Elena turned back and froze, embracing each other, trembling. â€Å"What is your – your father – going to do to you when he finds out that you al owed this?† â€Å"He wil not kil me,†Sage said brusquely, the wild tone back in his voice. â€Å"He may even find it as amusant as I do, and we wil be sharing a bel y laugh tomorrow.† â€Å"And if he doesn't find it amusing? Sage, I don't think†¦ Damon wouldn't have wanted – â€Å" Sage whirled around and for the first time since she had met him, Elena could believe with her whole soul that he was the son of his father. His eyes had even seemed to change color, to the yel ow of a flame, with diamond pupils like a cat's. His voice was like steel splintering, harder even than Stefan's. â€Å"What is between my father and me is my own business – mine! Stay here if you want. He never bothers himself about vampires, anyway – he says they're cursed already. But I am going to do everything I can to bring mon cheri Damon back.† â€Å"Whatever the cost to you?† â€Å"The hel with the cost!† To Elena's surprise, Stefan gripped Sage's shoulders for a moment and then simply hugged as much of him as he could hold. â€Å"I just wanted to make sure,†he said quietly. â€Å"Thank you, Sage. Thank you.†Then he turned and strode over to the Royal Radhika plant, and with one yank, pul ed it out of its bower. Elena, heart beating in her lips and throat and fingertips, ran to gather the empty containers and bottles Sage was tossing out of a ninth doorway that had appeared in between the mine shaft and the field of black roses. She snatched up a gal on container and an Evian water bottle, both with secure caps intact. They were made of plastic, which was good, because she dropped them both just going across the room to the bubbling fountain. Her hands were shaking that badly; and al the time she was sending up a monotonous prayer, Oh, please. Oh, please. Oh, please! She got water into both containers at the Fountain and capped them. And then she realized that Bonnie was Stillstanding in the middle of the Gatehouse. She looked bewildered, frightened. â€Å"Bonnie?† â€Å"Sage?†Bonnie said. â€Å"How do we get these things to the Celestial Court to bargain with them?† â€Å"Have no worries,†Sage said kindly. â€Å"I am certain that Guardians wil be waiting just outside to arrest us. They wil take us to the Court.† Bonnie didn't stop trembling, but she nodded and hurried to help Sage get bottles of Black Magic – and break them. â€Å"A symbol,†he said. â€Å"Un signe of what we wil do to this area if the Celestials don't agree. Be careful not to cut your pretty hands.† Elena thought she heard Bonnie's husky voice then, and that it was not a happy tone. But Sage's rumbling murmur was reassuring. And Elena would neither al ow herself to hope nor despair. She had a task in hand, a scheme. She was making private Plans for the Celestial Court. When she and Bonnie had al the plunder they could carry, and their backpacks were ful as Well, when Stefan had two narrow black boxes that held deeds, and when Sage looked like a cross between Santa Claus and a bronzed, gorgeous, long-haired Hercules, as he carried two sacks made of pil owcases, they gave one last look around at the ravaged Gatehouse. â€Å"All right,†Sage said then. â€Å"Time to face the Guardians.†He smiled reassuringly at Bonnie. As usual, Sage was right. The moment they came out with their booty, Guardians from two different dimensions were ready for them. The first type were the ones who looked vaguely like Elena: blond hair, dark blue eyes, slender. The Guardians of the Nether World seemed senior to these, and were lithe women with skin so dark it was almost ebony, and hair that curled tightly in a cap over their heads. Behind them were bril iant golden air cars. â€Å"You are under arrest,†one of the dark ones said, not looking as if she enjoyed her job, â€Å"for removing treasures that rightful y belong to the Celestial Court out of the sanctuary where it was agreed that they would be kept, under the laws of both our dimensions.† And then it was only a matter of hanging on to the golden air cars while hanging on at the same time to their unlawful booty. The Celestial Court was†¦celestial. Pearly white with a faint hint of blue. Minarets. It was a long distance from the heavily guarded gate – where Elena had seen a third type of Guardian, one with short red hair and slanted, piercing green eyes – to the actual palace, which seemed to encompass a city. But it was when Elena's group was guided to the throne room that the real culture shock hit. It was far larger and far more glorious than any room Elena had ever imagined. No bal or gala in the Dark Dimensions could have prepared her in the least for it. The cathedral ceiling seemed to be made entirely of gold, as were the double line of stately columns that marched vertical y across the floor. The floor itself was of intricately patterned malachite and gold-threaded lapis lazuli, with gold seemingly used as grouting – and with a heavy hand at that. The three golden fountains in the middle of the room (the central one was the largest and most elaborate) threw into the air not water, but delicately perfumed flower petals that sparkled like diamonds in turning at their apex and then floated down again. Stained-glass windows in bril iant colors that Elena couldn't remember ever having seen before threw rainbow light like a benediction from high on every wal , giving warmth to the otherwise cool engraved gold. Sage and Elena and Stefan and Bonnie were seated in smal comfortable chairs just a few feet back from a great dais, draped with a fantastical y woven golden cloth. The treasures were spread out in front of them, as attendants dressed in flowing blue and gold took the objects one by one up to the current ruling triumvirate in back. The rulers comprised one each of the groups of Guardians – fair, dark, redheaded. Their seats on the dais ensured that they were far from – and high above – their petitioners. But with Power sent to her eyes, Elena could see perfectly well that they each sat on an exquisitely jeweled golden throne. that they each sat on an exquisitely jeweled golden throne. They were speaking softly together, admiring the Royal Radhika flower – blue delphiniums at the moment. Then the dark one smiled and sent one of her attendants running for a pot with soil for the plant to survive in. Elena stared sightlessly at the other treasures. A gal on of water from the Fountain of Eternal Youth and Life. Six bottles of unbroken Black Magic wine, and the shards of at least that many around them. A blazing rainbow to rival the stained-glass windows in fist-sized gems, some raw, some already faceted and polished, but most of them not only faceted, but also hand-carved with mysterious gold or silver inscriptions. Two long, black, velvet-lined boxes with yel owing cylinders of papyrus or paper inside them, one with a pure black rose lying next to it, and the other with a simple spray of light springtime-green leaves. Elena knew what the yel owed documents with their cracked waxen seals were. The deeds to the field of black roses and the kitsune paradise. When you saw al the treasures together like this, it almost seemed too much, Elena thought. Any one object from any one of the Seven – no, now Six – kitsune Treasures was enough to trade worlds for. One sprig of the Royal Radhika, which was even now being returned, (pink larkspur changing to a white orchid) properly potted again, was immeasurably precious. So was a single velvety black rose, with its power to hold the most powerful of magics. One jewel from the hoard in the mining cavern, maybe a double-fist-sized diamond that put the Star of Africa and the Golden Jubilee to shame. One day in the kitsune paradise, where a day could seem like a perfect lifetime. One sip of that effervescent water that could make a human live as long as the oldest Old One†¦ Of course there should also have been the largest star bal in existence, ful of eldritch Power, but Elena was hoping that the Guardians would overlook that. Hoping? She wondered and shook her head at nothing, causing Bonnie to squeeze her hand tightly. Not hoping. She didn't dare hope. Not a breath yet. Another attendant, red-haired, flashing them a cold green-eyed look, picked up the plastic gal on bottle that said Sector 3 Water on the label. Sage rumbled as she left, â€Å"Qu'est-ce qui lui prend? I mean, what is her problem? I like the water in the vampire sector. I don't like the pump water in the Nether World.† Elena had already figured out the color code for the Guardians. The blond ones were al business, impatient only with delays. The dark ones were the kindest – maybe there was less work for them to do in the Nether World. The green-eyed redheads were just plain bitchy. Unfortunately, the young woman on the central throne up there on the dais was a redhead. â€Å"Bonnie?†she whispered. Bonnie had to gulp and sniff before she could get out, â€Å"Yes?† â€Å"Have I ever told you how much I like your eyes?† Bonnie gave her a long brown-eyed gaze before beginning to shake with laughter. At least it started out like laughter, and then Bonnie burrowed her head into Elena's shoulder and simply shook. Stefan squeezed Elena's hand. â€Å"She's been trying so hard – for you. She – she loved him too, you see. I didn't even know that. I guess†¦I guess I've just been blind on al sides.† He ran his free hand through his already-tousled hair. He looked very young, like a little boy who had been suddenly punished for doing something he hadn't been told was wrong. Elena remembered him in the backyard of the boardinghouse, dancing with her feet on his feet, and then in his attic room, kissing her hands, her knuckles bruised with hammering, the pulsing inside of her wrists. She wanted to tel him that everything was going to be All right, that the laughter would come back to his eyes, but she couldn't stand the chance of lying to him. Suddenly Elena felt like a very, very old woman, who could hear and see only dimly, whose every movement caused her terrible pain, and who was cold inside. Her every joint and every bone was fil ed with ice. At last, when al the treasures, including a sparkling, diamond-set, golden Master Key, had been taken up for the young women on the thrones to handle, heft, examine, and discuss, a warm-eyed dark-skinned woman came to Elena's group. â€Å"You may approach Their High Judgments now. And,†she added in a voice as soft as the stroke of a dragonfly's wing, â€Å"they are very, very impressed. That doesn't often happen. Speak meekly and keep your heads low and I think you shal have your hearts'desires.† Something inside Elena gave a bound that would have sent her leaping to clutch at the retreating attendant's robe, but fortunately Stefan had her in an embrace of iron. Bonnie's head came off Elena's shoulder, and Elena had to restrain her, in turn. They walked, the very portrait of meekness, to where four scarlet cushions blazed against the golden weave of the floor cloth. Once, Elena would have refused to abase herself. Now, she was thankful for a soft resting place for her knees. This close, she could see that the rulers each wore a circlet of some metal, from which a single stone hung on to her forehead. â€Å"We have considered your petition,†the dark one said, her white-gold circlet with its diamond pendant dazzling Elena with pinpricks of lilac and red and royal blue. â€Å"Oh, yes,†she added, laughing. â€Å"We know what you want. Even a Guardian on the street would have to be very bad at her job not to know. You want your town†¦renewed. The burned buildings rebuilt. The victims of the malach pestilence re-created, their souls swathed again in flesh, and their memories – â€Å" â€Å"But, first,†interrupted the fair one, waving a hand, â€Å"don't we have business at hand? This girl – Elena Gilbert – may not be eligible to be a spokesman for her group. If she becomes a Guardian, she doesn't belong with the petitioners.† The redhead tossed her head like an impatient fil y, causing the rose gold of her circlet to flash, and its ruby to shimmer. â€Å"Oh, go on then, Ryannen. If your recruitment levels are so low – â€Å" The businesslike fair one ignored this, but bent forward, some of her hair held back from her face by her circlet of yel ow gold with its sapphire pendant. â€Å"What about it, Elena? I know our first encounter was – unfortunate. You must believe that I am sorry for that. But you were well on your way to becoming a ful Guardian when we had orders from Above to weave you into a new body so that you could take up your life as a human again.† â€Å"You did that? Of course you did.†Elena's voice was soft and low and flattering. â€Å"You can do anything. But – our first encounter? I don't remember – â€Å" â€Å"You were too young, and you saw just a flash of our air car as it passed your parents'vehicle. It was meant to be a minor accident with one apparent casualty – you. But instead†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Bonnie's hands flew to her mouth. She was clearly getting something Elena wasn't. Her parents'†vehicle†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦? The last time she'd driven with her father and mother – and little Margaret – had been the day of the crash. The day she'd distracted her father, who'd been driving†¦ â€Å"Look, Daddy! Look at the pretty – â€Å" And then had come the impact. Elena forgot about being meek and keeping her head low. In fact, she raised her head, and met gold-splattered blue eyes very much like hers. Her own gaze, she knew, was piercing and hard. â€Å"You†¦ killed my parents?†she whispered. â€Å"No, no!†the dark one cried. â€Å"It was an operation gone sour. We only had to intersect with the Earth dimension for a few minutes. But, quite unexpectedly, your talent flared. You saw our air car. Instead of a crash with only one apparent casualty: you, your father turned to look and†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Slowly her voice trailed off as Elena's turned unbelieving eyes on her. Bonnie was staring sightlessly into the distance, almost as if she were in trance. â€Å"Shinichi,†she breathed. â€Å"That weird riddle of his – or whatever it was. That one of us had murdered, and that it was nothing to do with being a vampire or a mercy kil ing†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"I'd always assumed it was me,†Stefan said quietly. â€Å"My mother never real y recovered after my birth. She died.† â€Å"But that doesn't make you a murderer!†Elena cried. â€Å"Not like me. Not like me! â€Å" â€Å"Well, that was why I was asking you now,†the businesslike blond woman said. â€Å"It was a flawed mission, but you understand that we were only trying to recruit you, yes? It's the traditional method. Our genes have honed us to be the best at managing powerful, irrational demons, who don't respond to traditional strength but require on-the-spot recalculation – â€Å" Elena choked back a scream. A scream of wrath – agony – disbelief – guilt – she didn't know what. Her Plans. Her schemes. The way she had handled boisterous boys in the bad old days – it was al genetic. And†¦her parents†¦what had they died for? Stefan stood up. His jaw was hard, his green eyes were burning bril iantly. There was no gentleness in his face. He clasped Elena's hand and she heard, If you want to fight, I'm in. Mais, non. Elena turned around and saw Sage. His telepathic voice was unmistakable. She was compel ed to listen. We cannot fight them on their own territory and win. Even I cannot. What you can do is make them pay! Elena, my brave one, your parents'spirits have undoubtedly found new homes. It would be cruel to drag them back. But let us demand of the Guardians anything you desire. For a year and a day in the past, demand whatever you wish! I think that we all will back you. Elena paused. She looked at the Guardians and she looked at the treasures. She looked at Bonnie and Stefan, who were waiting. There was permission in their eyes. Then she said slowly to the Guardians, â€Å"This is really going to cost you. And I don't want to hear that any of it is impossible. For al your treasures back and the Master Key too†¦I want my old life. No, I want a new life, with my real old life behind me. I want to be Elena Gilbert, exactly as if I'd graduated with my high school class, and I want to go to Dalcrest Col ege. I want to wake up in my aunt Judith's house in the morning and find that no one realizes I've been gone for almost ten months. And I want a 4.5 grade point average for my last year in high school – just in case of emergencies. And I want Stefan to have lived in the boardinghouse peaceful y al that time, and to have everyone accept him as my boyfriend. And I want every single thing that Shinichi and Misao and whoever they were working for did undone and forgotten. I want the person they were working for dead. And I want everything that Klaus did in Fel ‘s Church undone as well. I want Sue Carson back! I want Vickie Bennett back! I want everyone back! â€Å" Bonnie said faintly, â€Å"Even Mr. Tanner?† Elena understood. If Mr. Tanner had not died – mysteriously drained of blood – then Alaric Saltzman would never have been cal ed to Fel ‘s Church. Elena remembered Alaric from the out-of-body experience: sandy hair, laughing hazel eyes. She thought of Meredith and his almost-engagement to her. But who was she to play God? To say, yes, this person can die because he was unlovely and unloved, but this one has to live because she was my friend.