Psy-Trance in the Realm of Disco Essay

Admittedly so, being myself no less a stranger than a fan of the latent psychedelic rave culture of the last decade, with its steady pounding trance-inducing techno-grove, I was altogether rather curious to discover just what kind of a picture that Richard Dryer had to present in his famous essay (Dryer, 1979). For years, before they lost most of their covert appeal, stealing away to a Rave was somewhat popular for my generation; at least in the places where I grew up. So there was just something exciting to me, anticipating what he was about to relate of this earlier pop culture often rumored to share the same DNA of the psy-trance music of today’s Technocratic Age. It seems as if disco, understandably at its time a more readily accessible form of escapism had also quickly spread to far off distant lands overseas. It was probably the anticipation of some new and exotic twist that I was about to discover of the past that suddenly had my head inadvertently bobbing back and forth to some memorable however invisible beat. It seems to happen almost instinctually that way. Somehow, even before I turned the first page, my mind wandered to that pounding ecstasy-driven scene at the very beginning of the movie Blade, 1 where the music intense as it is drives the scene so powerfully that you just cannot stand still. There is just slightest sense of horror though, because everybody including the audience knows the inevitable; except that careless fool who has allowed lust to direct him into a den of vampires. The strobe lights pierce the atmosphere bouncing off the ceiling and all over the walls; forcing a familiar rush of anxiety. Soon, he is set to become their latest entree. It’s that environment of undisputable cool, the fashion, and the excitement that I love, but you can keep the blood. Dyer employs the analysis of a socialist and goes to great lengths to dissuade any notions that disco is just some crude form of capitalist production. He then launches into his narrative charging disco with three distinct characteristics: egotism – romanticism – and materialism. Although he somewhat claims that his argument is not as simple as capitalism is evil, in time you get the sense that Dyer really believes that all music is created with some measure of subversive super-sexual intent in mind. Disco he calls â€Å"naked eroticism† (Ibid). However, he sees it in a better light than the simple patriarchal rhythms of rock and roll, — â€Å"rock’s eroticism is thrusting, grinding – it is not whole body, but phallic†¦ even when preformed by women – rock remains indelibly phallocentric music† (Ibid). The movement and the culture which would grow up around this musical genre are shown in light of a powerful force that would ultimately come to influence the future of gay politics in the United States. Suddenly, I had found that unexpected nuance from out of disco’s past that I was searching for. In the end, he states his case. Disco he believes has an ability to celebrate the intensity of romantic adoration and the lament of being let down at the same time. It is the tension between the two that he seems to be reaching for. All that I know, is that when I used to hit those clubs late at night, I just wanted to dance. If Dyer seems to take a hatchet to this subject, in Do It (‘Til You’re Satisfied): Repetitive Musics and Recombinant Desires, Susan McClary employs a scalpel. However, her unique intellectual dexterity makes her tool that much more devastating. She neatly deconstructs old arguments that she seems to believe were built upon over-wrought modalities of Western tradition; that have today simply gone astray. Disco is placed along the side of other â€Å"repetition-driven [pursuits] of ecstasy(p7)† along with the avant-garde minimalist schools of thought coming out of the 1960’s. 2 McClary dives into a narrative that focuses upon stripping away illusions. She gives us a nice panoramic view of the minimalist history and the creative motives that evolved into the psy-trance music that became known as disco. At the heart of her prolonged study is a reliance upon what she calls an â€Å"analytical argument (p7) †¦ built around an in-dept comparison of form and process in Steve Reich’s Music for Eighteen Musicians (1999) and Donna Summers [and Moroder’s] Love to Love You Baby (1975). She naturally rejects the argument that disco is solely a minimalist form which is inherently non-teleological (without design or purpose). This may appear to be a neat stretch for those in the know. But, I was just happy to be along for the ride. As with Dyer, McClary argues against â€Å"traditional hierarchies of musical value† (p9). To her, Reich is the minimalist reaching for the edges of a musical trance-like state, and Summer is the erotic practitioner who belts out a classic vamp that surprisingly simulates an amazing 22 orgasms (p11). At last, she reaches just that much closer to what I have come to believe that the great body of psy-trance music is really all about; even thought she quickly abandons it. However, it is here that she poses her most salient point: â€Å"Teleological music’s ‘climax mechanism’ is akin to the [Western male] orgasm; teleology is thus the drive to orgasm; banishing teleology must mean banishing orgasm. Minimal music is anti-teleological, and is thus akin to trantric [‘Oriental’] sex, where the ability to put the [male] body into orgasm-defying stasis even as it engages in what for most humans is the most goal-directed activity imaginable is the sign of profound yogic accomplishment†(p12) Both of these authors seem to be seeking the same thing; just going about it in their own separate way. Yet, they both seem to miss the point as far as I am concerned because the aim of this psy-trance music is the same wherever it may be found. It is the search for that endless climatic moment that leads to a higher spiritual purpose. This same search for heavenly escapism can be found in many of the native Indian dance rituals that can be found right here in America. Even thought this spiritual quest has so often been obscured by the popular use of hallucinogenic drugs, still the psychedelic-techno music, the dark covert meeting places, and the strict social boundaries often found together in the mix wherever this type of pure eroticism abounds; all of it has a purpose. Even when the ‘raves’ were popular just a few years ago, still it seemed that even this generation could find some higher meaning in the heat of the dance. The pounding repetitious beat that always seemed to somehow naturally marshal the entire crowd into a circle; why does this always seem to happen? It is all a part of that necessary escapism just like that which draws thousands of young Israeli men to travel each winter far away from their homes and to a place called Goa in southern India. They are called Goa freaks (Saldanha, 2006), because they live a solitary existence almost like zombies forever strung out on ecstasy. However, it is the abandonment to the music that draws them there in order to find a solitary refuge, while being seduced into a trance-state that perhaps will help them to forget the anguish of their shattered lives.

Case analysis-Harrington Collection Essay

Problem identification In 2008, Harrington Collection, a large manufacturer and retailer of U.S. high-end women’s apparel, was facing opportunities and challenges whether to launch of active-wear products to meet the market and customers’ needs. But according to the macroeconomic environment, the target market, competitors and its own financial condition, Harrington needed to take careful consideration and then make the best decision for their own development. The U.S. women’s apparel industry Market trends From the data of U.S. Apparel Market Sale (2002-07), we could find out that, even when subjected to the impact of the economic downturn, the U.S. women’s apparel industry remained in a mature and stable state and held by continued growth momentum. The Retail Sales increased from $106 billion in 2002, to $133 billion in 2007. The average annual growth rate is 4.7%. It showed that the total sales of the women’s apparel industry did not receive the macroeconomic impact. Consumers still had a high desire to go shopping. At the same time, analyzed the data from U.S. Apparel Market Units, influenced by the economic downturn, consumers were more interested in less than $100, low-priced women’s apparel. From 2005 to 2007, the growth rate of units sold in more than $200 is 3.4%, the product growth rate of between $100-200 is 1.4%, and $50 to 100 product growth rate is 14.3%, while less than $50 low-priced products have the highest growth rate of 16.1%. The low-cost market has a great opportunity for manufacturers. Characteristics and competition The value chain of the women’s apparel industry is about: (1) branding; (2) design; (3) buying; (4) production; (5) channel marketing; (6) distribution; and (7) retailing. In the era of apparel products are relative homogenization, price war seems to become a common method to erode the market share of each other between brands. Each brand need to face how to  effectively reduce costs. Many brands established overseas plants or outsourced to overseas factories. This could reduce their cost of production and labor. Through effective monitoring, the overseas factory’s products also have a good quality. This makes the increased competition on the market. Women’s apparel retailers included department stores, mass merchandisers, specialty stores, and warehouse clubs/supercenters. Among them, the specialty stores got the 1st position, 58.6% share of channel, changed 11% from 2005 to 2007. The 2nd place is department store, 19.0%. Mass merchandisers got the 3rd position with 11.4%. In the retailing women’s apparel for the U.S. market, the most important distribution channel is specialty store. Harrington Collection Company’s background As a nearly 50-year history of the women’s apparel brand, Harrington Collection has a clear market positioning. Targeted at the high-end market is the original intention of Harrington Collection. The 1980s, the Harrington Collection expanded Vigor and Christina Cole brands, the product line aimed at the younger customer market. Because of their superior quality, knowledgeable sales staff and designer styles, they have a group of loyal customers. Four product lines Harrington Collection targeted affluent, fashionable, college-educated, professional women from 25 to 60. This company has four product lines, covered three classifications (Designer, Bridge, and Better) of the women’s apparel market. They targeted women of different ages, different background, and different family income. The Harrington Limited, as the â€Å"Designer† classification. This product line focuses on the Designer Collection, targets the customer as â€Å"Sophisticated Elegance†. Their age is from 35 to 60, an average household income is more than $200k. The retail price range is $500-$1000+. And it has 20% of Market Share, as the â€Å"Cash Cow†. It shows Harrington Collection’s market position is a high-end brand. Harrington Limited is the company’s most important product, and as a high-end brand, the products could show the strength of Harrington Collection. The Sopra, positions as the â€Å"Bridge† classification. This product line focuses on the Evening Wear; it targets the consumers of â€Å"Status Seeker†. The retail price  is about $400-$800. Most of the customers are 35-60; household income is more than $150k. The market share of Sopra is the lowest among the four product lines, only 5%. It is the â€Å"Dog† product, but the Evening Wear means the high-end position of a company, Harrington Collection needs to keep this product line. The Christina Cole, positions as the â€Å"Bridge† classification. This product line focuses on the high-end Career Wear; it targets the customers of â€Å"Office Chic†, with the price from $300-$700. The average information of the customers is 30-55, with more than $100k household income. The market share is 8%. The market positioning of this classification’s products are very competitive, so 8% is acceptable. It is the â€Å"Star†. The Vigor, â€Å"Better† classification’s product line, focuses on the Career Wear. Targeted customers are â€Å"Trend Setter†. They are from 25 to 50, with more than $75k household income. As the targeted age of the customers is younger than the others product lines, this line is full of fresh and flexible. It is able to adapt to the needs of the market to react and change, the â€Å"Star†. Manufactory strategy Harrington Collection does not set up overseas factories in Asia or outsourcing, for two reasons. First, they expected of high-quality women’s apparel products, good quality make their products to attract high-end consumers. Second, they hoped to catch up with the fashion, the close plants will have a high speed to deliver their product to the retail department, it could be able to help the brand issue season’s trend styles with the fastest speed. This strategy improves the cost of product, but it will help to enhance the brand image. Active wear In recent years, more and more of the company launched its own active wear products, just like hoodie, pants, and tee-shirt. Consumers buy active wear’s aimed not just in gym, but worn in everyday life. Consumers believe that active wear is very comfortable, very fresh, and very casual. There is also a very important reason, active wear is relatively cheap. In 2007, the â€Å"moderate† and â€Å"budget† classifications got 80% of market share on the apparel market and sold 7.5 million units in that year. But in 2009, many brands started to transform at the level of the â€Å"better† active wear. The average selling price was just below $100.By such changes in the market, we  can see that the consumer’s demand of high-grade active wear was increased. And consumers are willing and able to buy high-end active wear. Active wear of Vigor Division To Harrington Collection, in 2007 and 2008, the active wear market was not suitable for them to locate a high-end brand. Their brands, Vigor, the lowest level of the product line, but also achieve the â€Å"Better† classification. At that time, the consumers were more interested in the cheaper products. But the Market trends had a sudden shift in 2009, so Harrington Collection got an excellent opportunity to join into the active wear market. Harrington Collection’s Vigor brand is the most suitable for the introduction of active wear products. In the minds of consumers, Harrington Collection is a high-end brand, if Vigor was able to launch active wear products, would be favored by the consumers of high-end brands. Vigor’s styles were much more flexible than the others brands of Harrington Collection. And the core styles of active wear were about fresh and lifestyle. As a brand of Harrington Collection, Vigor continued the strategy of their company, provided the hi gh quality and agility products to fix the consumers’ needs, wants, and demands. This would attract the existing customers of Harrington Collection to purchase Vigor active wear products, because they believed that these garments were high quality and fashion. The Vigor team made decision about pricing. That hoodie, tee-shirt, and pants would be $100, $40, and $80, it seemed not a very high price, the working-class even could afford for them. It could help Vigor to get shares in the market of â€Å"moderate† classification. However, the establishment of a new product line requires the purchase of new equipment, the new plant, equipped with the appropriate staff. Harrington Collection needed to build a management team, design team. However, even the prospects of the market were perfect, but it still had a high risk to invest. Because of the market was full of uncertainties. But as a very promising project, Harrington Collection should carry out investment and development. Potential retail trade Because of the Vigor has laid a foundation, with a number of loyal customers. The active wear’s released as a new product sold in the present  market. Consumers can purchase the Vigor products from company-owned stores, upscale department and sociality stores. Company-owned stores’ sales and units are about 20% of the other two kind’s stores. Company-owned stores As the retail group of the Harrington Collection, they operated 120 stores, 50 of them were dedicated solely to the Vigor division. As the advantages of these stores that belong to the same forest senior enterprise distribution strategy can be effective implementation. Harrington Collection can avoid large retailers control, independent development and implementation of the marketing strategy. In these stores, Harrington Collection can be unified planning, unified propaganda, to help establish and enhance brand image. The stores’ management can be more direct contact with the market, and is easy to understand the changes in market demand, and at first time to adjust the marketing strategy. But with the high operating costs, many involve the management of business, need to invest a lot of manpower, material and financial resources. Upscale department and sociality stores As another two very important sales channels, they sold 80% of the Harrington Collection’s products. Both the two storefronts implement the same plan and strategy, with a certain degree of stability and integrity, and at the same time are able to avoid the vicious competition among the channel members. However, in this distribution channel, the prices of the previous link directly decide the latter part of the cost. Vigor’s active-wear The Vigor active-wear’s pricing relative to other products is relatively low, less than $100. This series is a strong attraction for consumers. In the initial launch, Vigor would be vigorously publicized. With Harrington Collection’s brand awareness, it was estimated that due to the current market demand is relatively large, and will soon get a valid response. The pricing strategy of Vigor active-wear is market skimming prices. Although these prices are lower than the other products of Vigor. But the variable costs of these products are only $20.55 (Hoodie), $7.50 (Tee-shirt), and $16.40 (Pants). The pricings are $100.00 (Hoodie), $40.00 (Tee-shirt), and $80 (Pants). Even with other related variable costs, and the fixed costs as  well as the construction of the plant, the purchase of equipment, and the administrative expenses of the management. The total cost of the product is much lower than the pricing. This pricing strategy can maximize profits of each single product. And it will not affect their own brand positioning to consumers buying enthusiasm. These products as same with other products of Vigor, will perform the same sales strategy; simultaneous promotion. The active-wear will not become a special product, which will affect the attitude of consumers to Vigor, that the active-wear of lower grade, or a decline in sales situations. Vigor’s competitors’ reaction â€Å"Better† level Positioning â€Å"Better† level the active-wear market is very competitive. Liz Claiborne’s Juicy Couture was one of the early leaders in this market. The leading companies, such as Jones Apparel Group and Liz Claiborne, both of them had a high share in the women’s apparel market. Even more, most of their products positioned in the â€Å"Better† classification. After Harrington Collection released Vigor series active-wear, the two companies will certainly respond. These two competitors in the overall grade lower than Harrington Collection, but because they build factories in the third world, their cost is lower than Harrington Collection, so they can drive down prices, establish a price war in this â€Å"Better† classification. At the same level, the relative homogenizations of active-wear products make it difficult to get a breakthrough in the design. So the price seems to have become a major factor in many consumers’ choice. Each company will be fully developed characteristics of their own company’s products, in order to attract more loyal customers, and seize the market share of other companies. Other levels Competitors with the same grade of the Harrington Collection will seize this opportunity to enter the active-wear market. They will not have a distinct advantage in the price, even in the presence of a disadvantage. But their quality may be higher, more innovative style design; fabric selection will be more comfortable. These products will attract high-end consumers’ details. The low-end brands will not impact on the formation of Vigor. They target different customer groups, both the customers will not be  influenced by each other. There is no direct competition, but would impact overall active-wear market share. Potential financial impact of Vigor active-wear manufacturing group The establishment and promotion of a new product needs to Harrington Collection invest. As the Vigor active-wear manufacturing group, this part of the investment is very high. The pants’ equipment costing was about $2 million and plant start-up cost estimated at $1.2 million. This program’s cost estimated $3 million. The hoodie and tee-shirt’s equipment costing was about $2.5 million and plant start-up cost estimated at $2.5 million. This program’s cost estimated $3.5 million. The expenses of national advertising and public relations campaign were estimated at $2 million. The carrying of active-wear line for every company-owned store was $50000 per store. The total carrying expense was about $2.5 million for 50 company-owned stores. The other data will be calculated in the form at the end of this part. In the end, the profit before tax in 2009 was $6,304,590. The profit margin before tax was 15.8%. Make decision A mature company should be good at discovering market opportunities, and seize the opportunity. Every investment has its risks, and identifies real opportunities for each company is very important. As people increasingly focus on practical demand for clothing, active-wear has good market prospects, and Harrington Collection has an advantage for the development of this product line. Even though the initial investment is huge, but this product is also huge gains. These products sale for a period of time then  the early investment will be recovered form earnings. Harrington Collection should let Vigor add this product line.

If You Cant Stand the Fat, Stay out of the Restaurant Term Paper

If You Cant Stand the Fat, Stay out of the Restaurant - Term Paper Example Bloomberg has created a nanny state in an attempt to eradicate his city of what he calls â€Å"beasts,† (overweight people). This is by no means the first measure taken by the state to control consumption, but many believe it is justified since two-thirds of American adults and 25 percent of children are obese, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that obesity is the number one health problem in the United States. Is there research confirming that the government regulation of consumption results curbs obesity ─ and even if it did, should it have the right to enforce taxes, bans, and penalties in an attempt to bring about a healthier society? It all comes down to personal responsibility and accountability ─ values that have been traded in for victimization and reliance on government. Individuals ─ not restaurants ─ make the decisions to purchase and consume food, so the ones ultimately responsibility for obesity are the consume rs, not the purveyors of food. Those ascribing to a smaller government and less intervention in citizens’ daily lives argue that personal freedoms are taken away when responsibility for one’s health is projected onto others. Regulations such as the one recently enforced in New York City, that do not allow restaurants and other businesses to serve fountain drinks over 16 ounces, raise major objections from citizens, who contend that the â€Å"government cannot legislate eating less or exercising more,†. To stop this tide of over-regulation that mandates restaurants to post calorie counts on their menus and requires stores to charge increased taxes on junk food, legislation such as â€Å"The Personal Responsibility in Food Consumption Bill† and â€Å"The Commonsense Consumption Act†.... sed taxes on junk food, legislation such as â€Å"The Personal Responsibility in Food Consumption Bill† and â€Å"The Commonsense Consumption Act† have been presented to statehouses so that lawsuits - waged against restaurants for â€Å"making† their patrons fat - will be prohibited by law. Those advocating personal accountability point to the failing premises behind socialized healthcare to prove their point, noting that such big government programs make Americans â€Å"troublingly tolerant of government trespasses on our freedom,† (Balko, Brownell, and Nestle 2004). Punishing restaurants for consumers’ obesity does not motivate customers to make healthy dietary choices, just as citizens are less likely to stay physically fit when others are forced to pay for their healthcare. Whether it is President Barack Obama pouring what will become trillions of dollars into Obamacare or former President George W. Bush designating $125 million of his budget in 2004 to encourage healthy lifestyles, using taxpayer money to bring about a fit America is by no stretch a panacea for an overweight America. On the same note, blaming and punishing restaurant owners for fattening their customers will not lean-down their clientele. Despite the lack of conclusive evidence supporting that exorbitant government programs and intrusive regulations result in a slimmer America, advocates of such measures maintain that they are necessary. They believe that restaurants and other purveyors of food are the problem that must be put under government control in order to bring citizens’ weight down. This was the exact reasoning behind the San Francisco City Council voting to ban fast food restaurants from giving kids’ toys with their meals - if they did not measure up to a certain health criteria.

Brazil - Individual vs Collective Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Brazil - Individual vs Collective - Assignment Example The Brazilian people also embraced the European cultures and innovations that significantly shaped the local civilization in the country. This has ultimately made the present day Brazil a fusion of different cultures making it complex and distinct. With a population of nearly 190 million people, most of them being whites of Italian, Polish, and Portuguese origin, Brazilians mainly follow the Catholic doctrine. The Portuguese occupation of the country for many years has also influenced the Brazilian official language that is Portuguese, although there are exists a small fraction of natives who speak their languages (Valenà §a, 2006). Brazilians value the family unit and its structure hence families are generally big usually even comprising of extended family members who share a closeness with each other and offer support and any help to one another each time the need arises. Brazilians distinguish each other by class according to how wealthy one is with regard to his or her money flow as well as the person colour. Individuals from darker ethnicities are more disadvantaged in the country. The immense disparities in wage brackets tend to create an enormous gap between the locals leading to a lack of interaction between those from the lower economic scale and the rich or upper-class category. Brazilian women are also usually delegated to lesser paying jobs like nursing and teaching. The people of Brazil are known to be affectionate with women kissing each other's cheeks as a sign of salutation and men shaking hands firmly. Brazilian businesspersons will normally first have an amicable relationship with each other before engaging in business deals that are prone to last a long time because of the fact that they put a lot of weight on the people they are dealing with. They are particularly keen to deal with people and not companies hence the need for a personal acquaintance with business partners.  

Politics in Portugal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Politics in Portugal - Essay Example In 1974, a left-wing military coup installed broad democratic reforms. The following year, Portugal granted independence to all of its African colonies. Portugal is a founding member of NATO and entered the EC (now the EU) in 1986† (CIA – World Fact Book) During the past 3 000 years, Portugal has witnessed a constant ebb and flow of civilisations. Phoenician, Greek, Celt, Carthaginian, Roman and Arabic cultures have all left their imprint.(Europa) This paper details the politically relevant history, economy, culture and political situations of Portugal. Julius Caesar and Augustus conquered the province of Lusitania which was occupied by the early tribal people of Portugal. The territory adopted Roman ways of living and the language of Portuguese took its root from Latin. The invasion by Romans happened in the period of 1000 B.C. In the early 8th century Moors conquered the Iberian Peninsula in which the early territory of Portugal was situated from Visigoths – the Germanic invaders. Muslim culture had its own impact and resulted in a large minority getting converted into Muslims. (Encyclopedia) Portuguese nation was created by the re-conquest of the territory by the Christians. The Moors were driven out of the territory by the King of Asturias during the 8th century. Alfonso VI of Castile is a key person in the Portuguese history and with the aid of France he won the war against the Moors to retain control over the Portuguese land. The dynasty descended with Henry of Burgundy and his son Alfonso Henriques who styled himself Alfonso I, King of Portugal. The country was recognized by Spain in the year 1143 and by Pope in the year 1179. The rule of A great task of recapturing other regions of Portugal from Moors was placed on the successors of Alfonso. The country of Portugal witnessed continuous strife ridden days because of the conflicts between

A Cultural Geography of Childhood Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

A Cultural Geography of Childhood - Essay Example Several of these, the first portion or set of the collection, reflects an English child's experiences, and the second set are my global perspective of other children's culture, or perceived existence as may be influenced by media and other forms of information. All throughout this essay, I have incorporated texts from readings about childhood and culture.Photography is a form of art aided by technology that captures in one scene what could have been or what might happen, or exactly what is happening with the subject or subjects, in connection with the present background, at this point, his or her environment. This could either be perceived, apparent, or as interpreted by circumstantial evidence presented by the image which is called the photo. Through photography, various forms of messages, interpretations as well as representation of culture, tradition and practices are depicted. These representations embody existing as well as ideal forms of what should be or what can be, but in mo st cases, also depict what are prevalent in society. With photos of children, these depictions are quite difficult to mask or hide. Thus, they become iconographic, as is "truth" at the moment. There had been moments in time that "childhood" according to Aries (1962) did not exist as in the middle ages, although this has been criticised as inaccurate (Hanawalt, 1995) where children were controlled and restrained. Aries went on to describe children as "little adults" although modern researches also pointed out that there had been separation of a "child" and "adult" starting in medieval Europe, of which, occurrences must have ignited these change. This essay, nevertheless, will progress with modern studies that have careful consideration of how children interact with adults and the factors that affect or shape children's general views as well as their present state. First Set I have an ordinary, normal childhood experience in the United Kingdom. I stayed around at the house for most of my early memories of childhood and my mum and dad served as big people that have to look after me and my needs. I have chosen this first set to depict, what for me is a "normal" childhood. Normal in the sense that there were no extraordinary occurrences such as physical or mental abuse, early detachment of a child to his or her parents, disability experiences, among other life-changing courses. This first photo depicts a toddler and her dad in formal outfit: he in tuxedo and the baby girl in chiffon dress. At the viewpoint of ordinary audience or watcher, this was taken during a special occasion, and it could be a wedding, a church or holy day, or any event that prompts the family, which is the mother, the father and the child, or children, to dress up and join a congregation, a community, or family gathering. (1ST PHOTO/Father & TODDLER) This second photo depicts a pre-school or day care child with his buddy. They are both of about the same age range between 3-5 years old and are in the stage of discovering friendship or comradeship, as well as belonging and acceptance. Considering their skin and hair colour, as well as their outfit, both children belong to a middle class or well-off family and society. This could mean their basic needs were well-taken cared off, and with the smile and facial glow of the blond child, he appears to be contented and secured, while the other child seem to have been influenced a little with the happiness or enthusiasm

Training Computer Users Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Training Computer Users - Essay Example According to Shinder (techrepublic.com), there are several ways of ensuring that the adopted training program meets the desired planning qualities. First, the author provides for identification of training goals prior to the actual training. An example of such goals is the reduction of output losses incurred by the customers as they shift from software to another. Improving end user speed, accuracy and security could also be possible objectives of the training. Alternatively, identification and assessing the needs of the end users form part of the greater planning strategy before the training. This is usually achieved by performing a rapid evaluation of capability and technical prowess that users have on average. A representative sample of end users is randomly taken and evaluated to reveal areas that assistance is needed. In addition to the above planning areas, it is important that various training techniques are explored and the best picked for higher efficiency. Several end users categories imply that different training techniques might be necessary, which makes a hybrid training technique the ideal choice. Some of the training techniques to be explored include; end user hands-on instruction, classroom style, seminar style demonstration, computer based training (CBT) as well as book or self paced training. Perhaps the most important preparatory aspect of the training is identification and sourcing of resources needed fro the end user training. Once the planning logistics are completed, the relevant resources for the training are identified and made available in time for the training. Training techniques for instance require different resources and tools in order for the objective to be achieved. Extra numbers of end users must be in anticipated and reservations made to avoid shortage of materials needed to reach all end users. The other

Rising trend of government media censorship programs(intenet) Essay

Rising trend of government media censorship programs(intenet) - Essay Example Internet has a role to play in whatever activity we are interested in, be it banking, shopping, reading, entertainment or research. It is no more just a luxury but has become an obligation in today’s world. With the passage of time the face of Internet has undergone a sea change; it has developed into a double-edged sword and has been under the scanner for censorship and control. With the increase in popularity of the Internet, the cases related to Internet crimes have also increased substantially. Statistically speaking, â€Å"there are about 20,000 pornographic photographs posted on the Internet each day.† (Bells, 2010). Internet has many ill effects on its users. Owing to its free accessibility, it has been misused and mishandled. Internet has become easy medium to commit crimes and express emotions, which are embarrassing and risky to carry out in the real world. The anonymity that the virtual world offers has added fuel to such activities. There had been innumerabl e instances of people being influenced by Internet to commit heinous crimes. A student playing long hours of online shooting games might set out on a shooting spree in the university in his real life. This is only one of the thousands of possibilities that might take place on a regular basis all around the world. As observed by a freelance content writer, â€Å"The Internet has become counter productive not for what it offers but because of what it causes† (Otter, July 2006). As the Internet offers the facility of easy and hassle free banking and financial transaction facilities it also provides an added risk of hacking and controlling of personal information for financial gains by some unscrupulous individuals. Internet has become an easy medium for individuals to commit crimes like scams, fooling people by alluring them for job, lottery prizes and even lead to committing sexual assaults. (Hinders, 2003). The social networking sites have made life of an

The Masque of the Red Death Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Masque of the Red Death - Research Paper Example Prince Prospero was the only place that the prince and his nobility friends and guest would feel safe, since there was security against any external intrusion, even the intrusion of death. The inside of the castle’s wall was characterized by happiness, while the outside was characterized by sadness, pain and death. Inside Prince Prospero’s castle, there was â€Å"musicians, there was Beauty, there was wine† (Poe, 21). All these elements were brought together in order to keep the guests to the castle entertained and at peace, despite the menace that was ruling outside the walls of the castle. Nevertheless, even when the inside of the castle seemed to be safer than the outside world, Prince Prospero and his guests still lived in an illusion and in a world of unreal. The attempt to bring in musicians, beauty, games, wine and decorations into the castle was meant to create an environment where happiness can thrive (Hayes, 88). Nevertheless, as it turns out, happiness is far away from the prince and his guest, just as the safety from death is away from the rest of the poor people who are facing the red death outside of the walls of the castle. The red death had already killed half of the kingdom, and the scare it sent throughout the kingdom caused Prince Prospero decide to stay inside the castle until the plague will have completely gone away. The prince entered the castle and welded the doors shut, so that nobody would enter into the castle and bring in the plague (Slick, 24). This attempt symbolizes the extents to which man can ago in an attempt to escape death, by doing a nything that is possible to escape the chances of interacting with scenarios or events that can cause death. However, even when all measures against death have been taken, it is never enough to keep death away from man, since it will eventually find its way into man’s life, despite all the

Managing Change Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Managing Change - Assignment Example Every department of the company should be involved in the process of change. Human resource management plays a very important role in the process of organizational change. When the change is implemented there is always a necessity in personnel training. Human resources department provides expertise in coordinating change and organizes personnel training. HR managers help employees understand their new roles in the company that underwent change and influence their perception of change that is very important for every company: Reh states: â€Å"an individuals degree of resistance to change is determined by whether they perceive the change as good or bad, and how severe they expect the impact of the change to be on them. Their ultimate acceptance of the change is a function of how much resistance the person has and the quality of their coping skills and their support system† (Reh). The department implements personnel selection as the changes, which are implemented, usually demand hiring new specialists. Appropriate human resource management helps implement successful organizational

In His Tragedies Shakespeare Often Presents Women Merely as the Tragic Victims of Men Essay Example for Free

In His Tragedies Shakespeare Often Presents Women Merely as the Tragic Victims of Men Essay In His Tragedies Shakespeare Often Presents Women Merely as the Tragic Victims of Men. To What Extent Do You Consider This Applies to Desdemona In Othello? There are no Antigones in Elizabethan Drama, Lyndsey Turner. Turner is here expressing the view that Shakespeare does not use his women as heroines. Instead she is of the opinion that they are used as devices on which the tragic impulses of the plays male characters are enacted. They are a device to produce a cathartic response from Shakespeares audience. In order to discuss to what extent Desdemona complies with this view, it would appear logical to define a tragic victim. Many say that a tragic victim is a character in a tragedy who suffers at the hand of circumstance and the fates. They suffer through no fault of their own and are brought down by others, they are totally powerless to change their fate and dont contribute to their own tragedy; they are solely the victims of others. It is also vital that they produce a cathartic response from the audience in order for their suffering to be tragic. Looking at these criteria it becomes clear why Shakespeare often uses women as his tragic victims. In the time Shakespeare was writing women had very little influence on their destiny having to submit either to their father or husband. They were the objects of men. When Iago warns Brabantio of his daughters escape he says Look to your house, your daughter and your bags. This shows of how little importance women were, being so powerless they would then be a natural choice for tragic victims, powerless to avoid their fate because of their weakness in society. However, when Desdemona is first presented to us she does not seem anything like a stereotypical woman of the time. Her character is presented as much stronger than that. Her father has not tried to force her into marriage even telling Roderigo that, My daughter is not for thee, even though it is clear that Roderigo is a rich man. At the end of Act one he goes to, sell all his land, in order to pursue Desdemona. As Brabantio is not therefore being in any way a tyrant to his daughter; her ability to escape from the house and deceive him shocks us and surely would have shocked a contemporary audience even more. This woman is not the kind of person you would expect to become a victim. Before the audience have even seen her she is described as a woman of, Beauty, wit and fortunes. She has gone to Othello in the dead of night protected by a, Knave of common hire, a gondolier. This shows Desdemonas bravery and strength. All of this increases her status with the audience and detracts from the image of a weak submissive woman. In Act 1 Scene 3 she defies what the Duke says, when he requests that she stay at her fathers house while Othello is in Cyprus saying that, She did love the Moor to live with him. For a woman to speak in front of a council of the most powerful people in Venice, not invited to do so, would be shocking to a contemporary audience and really show her strength of character. It is almost as though she is a feminine version of Othello, as Patsy Hall says, She cannot be the man, but she can be the husband of the man. She has shunned the Wealthy curled darlings of her nation unlike most women and instead chooses Othello. She doesnt care about his age or race she sees Othellos visage in his mind. The language Shakespeare gives her when talking of her wooing shows how deeply immersed in Othellos world she is; she, Falls in love with the battles even her language is strong. My downright violence and storm of fortunes, She is presented as incredibly strong certainly not a figure of pity. It is seemingly no wonder that Othello calls her, his fair warrior. Although Desdemona is first portrayed as quite a heroic figure by Shakespeare he soon starts to use her as a cathartic device, as the audience watch her previous strength fall away. It becomes clear that Shakespeare made her so strong willed deliberately in order to shape our response to Desdemona. Doing this makes it that much more painful for the audience. A major episode wherein Desdemona is presented as an object of pity is in the handkerchief episode. Desdemona loses her handkerchief and Othello sees Cassio with it. Despite Othellos growing suspicion, Desdemona remains ignorant claiming that, The sun where he was born drew all such humours from him. We feel tremendous pity for Desdemona when she says this because Shakespeare has shaped our response using structure and also the irony of her language. In the last scene we saw that Othello was seething with jealousy and vowed to kill her. This amplifies hugely our feeling of catharsis for her because we feel so helpless. Our pity for her is only added to when Shakespeare shapes events in the play so that all her qualities that were viewed as good in the first act of the play cause her to fall even further. However, she is still a victim because she is powerless to stop it; she is a victim of circumstance and ignorance that Iago has been planning her destruction. She continues to mention Cassio even when it is clear it is causing Othello irritance, she thinks that it is a trick to put her from her suit. The audiences feeling of catharsis is amplified as we can do nothing while her language puts her fidelity in more doubt in Othellos mind The time when we pity her most however is when Othello strikes her. Again she says precisely the wrong things, through no fault of her own but rather because her loving nature wishes to help Cassio, saying that, She would do much for the love she bears to Cassio. All the audience can do is sit and despair for her. When he hits her we think that maybe her strength will come back but she simply responds by saying that she, Will not stay to offend Othello. We despair because we know that if she submits to Othello she will die at his hands. This is yet more evidence of Desdemonas good proving to be her downfall. Shakespeare shapes events very cleverly in the next section in order to get the largest cathartic reaction. For a moment it seems like we might see a glimpse of Desdemonas fight. She claims, She has no Lord. The audience think for a moment she will be fine, however soon she is asking Iago, What shall I do to win my Lord again. The assertive Desdemona from the earlier scenes is gone and the audience despair for her. Even when Othello kills her she does not blame him. When asked who has killed her she says, Nobody, I myself. She dies a symbol of goodness and love, the way Shakespeare shapes her demise is unquestionably tragic. However, is she actually a victim? The audience on the most part at the time would say she is because she does not fall through a flaw in her character. However was she totally helpless and unable to change her fate? Patsy Hall argues that Othello and Desdemona have a, Mutual ignorance of each others nature, saying also that she is, so selflessly devoted that she cannot acknowledge imperfection in her husband. I would agree with this statement by Hall. The audience are constantly perplexed throughout the play as to why Othello will not listen to anyone but Iago. This could be perhaps a comment on how women have had to suffer under the patriarchal society in which Shakespeares original audience was living, perhaps through Desdemona he is trying to show the unfair nature of their society. But in many ways the same is true for Desdemona. Emilia tries to tell her that, Jealous souls are not ever jealous for the cause, but jealous for they are jealous. But even after this warning Desdemona takes no heed of anyone but Iago, therefore it could just perhaps be confirmation of Iagos intelligence, this backs up Desdemonas role as a victim as she is a victim of others. So in conclusion there is no doubt that Desdemonas demise is very much tragic. Also having examined the criteria it would be accurate to say that in many ways Desdemona is a victim. She suffers through no fault of her own and is the victim of circumstance. However, I am not sure that one could say that she was totally powerless to stop her eventual fate. I would say that Desdemona was not a victim of Iagos scheming or Othellos jealousy as she could have stopped these. She was a victim of her own love for Othello. Therefore, I would say that the statement in the title applies to Desdemona so far as she was the tragic victim of her own love for a man.

Theories for Product Bundling

Theories for Product Bundling RASHIDA ABDULHAMID WHY DO FIRM BUNDLE TWO PRODUCTS TOGETHER AND HOW IS IT LIKELY FOR THEM TO MAKE PROFIT? What is product bundling? Product bundling is simply means combining two or more goods together and selling them as on one combined product. It is mostly common in market with imperfect competitive product. It is a marketing strategy that joins products or services together in order to sell them as a single combined unit. Bundling allows customers to purchase two or several product at the convenient purchasing power from one company. The products and services are usually related, but they can also consist of dissimilar products which appeal to one group of customers. It based on consumer’s value the grouped package more than the individual items. Why do producer go into product bundling? Producers go into product bundling because of so many reasons, bundling of two products gives the producer to offer more affordable prices for their customer with also a better interest for them. Bundling enhances an organizations offering mix while at the same time minimizing cost of both production and selling. This is attractive to consumers who will benefit from a single, value-oriented purchase of complementary offerings. Bundling is attractive to producers by increasing efficiencies, such reducing marketing and distribution costs. It can also encourage customers to look to one single source to offer several solutions. Product bundling may also incorporate products from multi producers. Example of this is the palo alto software may include one of their business planning product with an accounting software package, or participate in a small business bundle† through a major computer manufacturer whose customers would have the opportunity to purchase with their new PC. In these situations, bundles may cost effectively open to new marketing channels. FACTORS CONSIDER WHEN BUNDLING INCLUDE VOLUME: bundling typically increases unit sales volume. MARGING: bundling can reduce margins. EXPPOSURE: bundling may offer new channel opportunities or exposure to new potential customers. RISK: if executed incorrectly, bundling may cannibalize more profitable sale, resulting in lower contribution margins and potential channel conflict. This last example has three important implications. First, the market outcome is not necessarily efficient, in the sense that a social planner with full information and no costs of imposing a solution could do better. That should not be surprising in light of the results in the product selection literature that the set of product offerings is not necessarily efficient. Second, while the model reveals a bias toward the offering of a bundle, the bias is primarily toward mixed bundling, not toward pure bundling or other forms of tying. Indeed, although the preceding example does not show it, the model can be interpreted to suggest a bias against pure bundling. In a companion paper, we show that the conditions for pure bundling to be the only sustainable outcome are stronger than the conditions for pure bundling to be the efficient outcome. The model does not rule out the possibility of inefficient tying. Tying can be. the predicted outcome when components selling is optimal, but there is no systematic reason for this to be the case. There is a tendency in the model for big groups to get the offering they want. But this effect holds equally when the biggest group wants just one component as when the biggest group wants the bundle. Third, in analyzing the welfare consequences of bundling discounts (under mixed bundling), it is important to distinguish between marginal cost savings and the effect of fixed costs. Both are potential sources of savings to the group that purchases the bundle, but only the marginal cost savings reflect welfare gains. In this example, there is a substantial bundle discount; the bundle price of 19 is 5 less than the sum of the components prices. Under pure components selling, they would pay a total of 20, which is also more than the bundle price under mixed bundling. Notwithstanding this private benefit, it is inefficient for the bundle to be offered. In contrast, if there were no fixed costs and the bundle discount reflected a marginal cost savings of 5, then mixed bundling would be efficient. . Which products are offered depends on the extent to which bundling lowers marginal cost, on the fixed costs of offering each product, and on demand. For a product to be offered in the kind of contestable market we describe here, three conditions must holdthese are known in the formal economics literature as sustainability conditions. First, no price can exceed average cost. Otherwise another firm could enter and provide the product to the same group of customers for less. Second, the price of each product must be low enough that the seller of a second existing product cannot profitably lower its price and attract the purchasers of the first. Third, prices must be low enough that entry with a product not offered is unprofitable. First, marginal cost savings are neither necessary nor sufficient for tying to occur in competitive markets. They are not necessary because, even without marginal cost savings, firms may not separately provide a product if there is not enough demand to cover the fixed cost of offering that product this result assumes that the firm is offering a bundle that attracts at least some consumers who want that product. They are not sufficient because, even with marginal cost savings, firms may find that there are enough consumers who want the products separately and do not value the other product they will therefore oiler the bundle to attract consumers who want both and separate products to attract consumers who only want one. Second, fixed costs are a necessary but not sufficient condition for tying to occur in competitive markets. Firms eliminate a product choice that some consumers want because it enables them to avoid the fixed costs of offering it separately. Or, to put it another way, firms cannot provide some products separately because there is not enough demand to cover the costs. Third, pure bundling can arise for two reasons which are worth distinguishing: (1) moderate fixed costs when many consumers demand all components and demand is low for at least one of the individual components; and (2) high fixed costs. Without fixed costs, our assumptions generally imply mixed bundling. Under mixed bundling, the bundle is available for those who want both goods and the separate products are available for those who want just one. With some fixed costs, however, pure bundling can result if many customers want both goods and demand for the component does not justify the fixed cost of offering them separately. Pure bundling can also occur, however, even if no consumer wants both components. These will happen when fixed costs are very high, which in turn implies that pure bundling saves significant fixed costs over components selling. Fourth, firms may sell some but not all of the components separately from the bundle. This occurs when demand for the bundle and one of the separate components is substantial but demand for the other is not. In a separate welfare analysis we show that firms may not offer the optimal product variety (the standard result in the product variety literature) but that the tendency is to offer too much mixed bundling rather than to offer too much tying. Table 3 contains our first example. The size of each group of consumers is 100. The marginal costs of both goods ; and 2 are 8 while the marginal cost of the bundle is 14. Since the latter is less than the sum of the components prices, there are marginal cost savings from bundling. Fixed costs are 600 It follows that the prices of the components under mixed bundling are 14 while the price of the bundle is 20. As the next line in the Table indicates, the price of the bundle under pure bundling is 16. It is lower than the price of the bundle under mixed bundling because more customers share the fixed cost. Under components selling, the prices of the components are 11 each. As with pure bundling, the prices are lower than under mixed bundling becau se the fixed costs are shared with a larger group. Before turning to why mixed bundling is sustainable, let us consider why the other product configurations are not. Under pure bundling, the price of the bundle is 16. This price is susceptible to entry by, say, a producer of good 1 at a price of 14. This component price is less than the 16 that group 1 pays for the bundle under mixed bundling, and it is sufficient to cover costs even if only group 1 buys the bundle. A pure component selling, in which the price of each of the two goods is 11, is not sustainable either. Group B pays a total of 22 for the two components, so entry with the bundle at a price of 20 attracts group B and is profitable. When the bundle and just good 1 are offered, the price of the bundle is 17. Entry by a supplier of good 2 at a price of 11 is then profitable. For the same reason, it is not sustainable to offer just the bundle and good 2. Having seen how entry can prevent a set of offerings from being sustainable, we can now understand why mixed bundling is sustainable in this case. All possible products are offered in mixed bundling, so it is not possible to enter with a new product. We do, however, need to consider whether cutting the price of an existing product (or products) to attract an additional block of customers would be profitable. At these prices, it is not. For example, to sell the bundle at a price that is low enough to attract groups 1 and 2; one would still have to charge 16. But that would not be low enough to attract groups 1 and 2, which can purchase only the good they want under mixed bundling for 14. Similarly, cutting the price of the components to attract group B would not be profitable. If group B purchased the components, the prices would still have to be 11. Group B would then pay 22 for both goods, which is more than the 20 it pays for the bundle under mixed bundling. There are a number of factors that give rise to mixed bundling in this example. First, there are marginal cost savings from bundling. At the same time, the marginal cost of the bundle exceeds the marginal cost of just one of the components. So, putting fixed costs aside, there would be an advantage to having the separate components available to those who want just one of them. Also, the demand for each of the three possible products is substantial; and, while fixed costs are present, they are not so great as to preclude offering one of the goods. The results in Table 3 depend, of course, on the assumed values for each of the seven variables in the model. Small changes in each variable would affect prices, but mixed bundling would still be the qualitative outcome. With larger changes, however, the qualitative outcome would change as well. Since mixed bundling means that all three of the possible products are offered, any change would eliminate one or more of the products offered. For example, consider a reduction in the number of people who want just good 1. The fixed cost of offering good 1 would then have to be spread over a smaller customer base so the price of good 1 would have to increase. When the number of people who want only good 1 is sufficiently small, the price of good 1 would exceed the price of the bundle. Consumers who want just good 1 would then buy the bundle (anSd discard good 2). Good 1 would disappear from the market, leaving good 2 and the bundle as the only products offered. In that case, good 2 is tied to good 1. Just as a reduction in the number of people who want good 1 causes the price of good 1 to go up, an increase in X1 causes the price to drop. With a sufficiently large increase in the demand for good 1 alone, the price can drop enough that people who want both goods find it cheaper to buy them separately. The bundle disappears from the market. The result is pure components selling, which does not entail tying. Table 4 shows the change in product offerings that could result from sufficiently large increases and decreases of each of the seven variables in the model. (As we note, in some cases, even a large change will not alter the product offerings.) The first row of the table reports the results described above. The left half of that row says that with a sufficiently large decrease in X1, the set of products offered becomes the bundle and good 2 while good 1 is no longer offered. The right hand half of the first row shows that with a sufficiently large increase in the demand for good 1, the set of products offered are goods 1 and 2 while the bundle is no longer offered. As Table 4 indicates, there are two cases in which mixed bundling are the qualitative outcome no matter how much the variable change (in the given direction). One of these is a reduction in fixed costs. That result makes intuitive sense. Fixed costs in the model can cause a potential product not to be offered. Given the other assumed values in Table 4, fixed costs of 600 are low enough that all three of the possible products can be offered profitably. A reduction in the fixed cost of a product offering would only reinforce the possibility of providing for each group the product tailored to its particular demand.

Organism Adaptions over Time

Organism Adaptions over Time An adaptation is a feature that is very commonly seen in a specific population because it provides some improved functionality. Adaptations are well suited to their pertaining function and are made by natural selection. Evolution is the actual process of when some organisms change their form over a long period of time to adapt to certain environment that they live in, to be able to defend themselves against other animals like predators, to camouflage or sometimes for no scientifically explained reason. This essay will be discussing specific organisms on Earth that have evolved to be able to adapt to their living conditions and how and why their changes had happened. The first organism that is going to be discussed is the actually the Polar Bear. This is more of a basic example of what evolution is like and has a really valid and scientifically proven reason. The Polar bear had originated from the Brown bear. This happened when some Brown bears were separated from their pack when traveling and they had to adapt to the cold environment they were left in. Eventually the weaker ones had died and the stronger bears learn to adapt to their environment and eventually their fur would turn white. The whiteness in their fur would help with them camouflaging in the snow and ice that surrounded them to protect and hide them from predators and and keep them warm from the freezing temperatures. The second organism that will be discussed is actual the whole species of the whale. The whale has undergone major changes and phases of evolution. The original ancestors of whales are actually terrestrial animals. Scientists believe that whales evolved from animals like wolves which as we all know, were land animals who walked on all fours. The reason behind this change is due to changing land masses overtime. The textures and risings and fall of the lands on Earth due to earthquakes is what caused this change for wolves to develop fins and flippers and eventually turn into whales, of course taking many lifetimes for this to happen. Another organism on planet Earth that has undergone evolution is actually the cactus. I will be discussing how once leafy and normal plants became a cactus. It is known that actually the Pereskia, a genus which contained seventeen species of leafy shrubs and trees is where the first known sights of cactus development began and how plants made this change to adjust to the dry environment that some of them lived in. Since it was so dry and rain ever hardly made its way to the plants they began to change their structure to be able to contain water within them to drink off of and survive. This is a really good example of an organism evolving because it shows the cause and effect of how and why it made its change and the pricks on the outer side of the cactus to also protect it from other animals that may want to feed of the cactus such as birds, lizards and insects. The fourth example of an organism on Earth developing its evolution for adaption is the lizard known as the skink. This animal actually, within its embryo within its egg has somehow learned to give itself another layer of calcium on its body. This was done by the minerals within the sand that it was surrounded by in the beaches it used to and still thrives in. This was done so once hatched it would be able to get used to its sandy environment and be able to use this calcium to gain the vitamins and nutrients it needs as ian infant to survive. The skink still remains as a really thriving species of lizard in modern day and this is because of the calcium it hadÂÂ   absorbed when it was young. The fifth and final example of an evolution taking place for the sole purpose of adaptation of an organism that is actually currently evolving as speak and this organism is known as. As we all know climate change is currently upon us and the Tawny Owl from Finland is what I am talking about. This owl is actually varying in colors. There are three different types of colors for this owl, brown and pale grey. The pale grey owls have learned to survive within the winter time because they can easily blend in with some of the snow sides of their habitat but as for the browner owls they had a hard time with this. But thanks to climate change, survival is on their side, the species has been evolving itself and more specifically, the grey owls have been dying. The brown owls can now blend into anything brown, which is a common color of branches that are visible on hotter days. Survival of the fittest is what was called for and the brown Tawny owl is the definition of that. All five examples are provided with cause of adaption and an extra introduction which was not required was provided to provide a general and more clear idea of what will be discussed.

Discrimination in America Essay -- Race Racism Prejudice

Our world has always been faced with the problem of discrimination. It is one of the most discussed topics nowadays and throughout history. In all countries there is most likely at least one type of discrimination that affects different groups of people. The definition of discrimination is the denial of opportunity or equal rights for a specific group of people that may be differentiated by things such as their religion, color of skin, or gender. The world we live in has been struggling with this sensitive subject for as long as we the have record. Many people believe discrimination has made big steps forward, but has it really? If it has, why do people still get turned down, receive hate mail, or get ridiculed simply because they differ from each other. I guess these are questions we must ask ourselves. I guess you could also ask yourself if you have ever called anybody a name, looked at them different or judged them when you did not even know them or understand them. You m ay be thinking "That is not discrimination," but, in fact, it is. Personally, I never felt that I was discriminated against by anyone or discriminated against others until I came to the USA. Even though this country welcomes all immigrants, people still get treated as â€Å"others.† I remember the night when I arrived in the United States and saw so many black people in the airport. My friends and I were pointing at them and saying â€Å"Look, they are black and they are not like us, they are others.† While we were not trying to be rude, it is clear to me now that we were actually being discriminatory. However, I didn’t realize at the time that sooner or later I would be considered as an â€Å"other† also. Even as a good-looking, smart, intelligent European w... ...ome from), the issue of racial discrimination is not as strong but there are some others, such as gender, class and religion discrimination. This is truly a global issue affecting all nations. I closing, I have realized from my arrival in America that diverse people will often judge each other by appearance and language rather than on substance. We must accept the fact that while people may get more tolerant, there will always be some sort of discrimination. Instead of giving up, it has just made me stronger as I have learned to adapt and not have a complex about my differences. I am sure there are many stories similar to mine that can be used as examples of discrimination. The United States has not solved this problem, but there are a lot of things that have been done in this country in order to have equal rights so that fewer people are treated like â€Å"others.†

The Life and Theories of Charles Darwin Essay -- Biography Biographies

The Life and Theories of Charles Darwin Charles Robert Darwin was the fifth child of Robert Waring Darwin and Susannah Wedgewood. He was born on February 12, 1809 in Shrewsbury, England where his father practiced medicine. He attended Shrewsbury Grammar School which was a well-kn own secondary school which concentrated on teaching classic languages. Even as a boy Darwin loved science and his enthusiasm for chemical studies earned him the name "Gas" from his friends. The headmaster at Shrewsbury, Dr. Samuel Butler noted, "Here's a boy, plays around with his gases and the rest of his rubbish and works at nothing useful." He was also an avid collector. Anything he could get his hands on- shells, eggs, minerals and coins interested him. Darwin was expected to follow his father and become a doctor and in 1825, at the age of sixteen, his father removed him from Shrewsbury and entered him in the University of Edenburgh to study medicine. He found all of his classes except chemistry dull. After two years at Edenburg, he quit school and went to live with his Uncle Josiah Wedgewood. After he abandoned medicine, his father urged him to attend Cambridge University to study to be a clergyman. At Cambridge he met John Steven Henslow who helped him regain his interest in nature. It was Henslow who was influential in getting Darwin the position of naturalist on the boat The Beagle. In April of 1831, he graduated from the University. In the fall following his graduation, the government decided to send the H.M.S. Beagle, under the command of Captain Fitzroy, to complete an unfinished survey of Patagonia and Tierra Del Fuego to help map out the shores of Chile and Peru. Th e voyage w... ...rstand or explain whatever I observed and group a ll facts under some general laws..." On April 19, 1882 Darwin died of a heart attack. The family wanted Darwin to be buried in his home, the village of Downe. However, Parliament requested that he be buried in Westminster Abbey, a cemetery for Britain's kings and queens and intellectual giants. This was an indication of how far Darwin had come towards universal acceptance and respectability. Darwin's coffin lies next to Issac Newton which is only fitting because Darwin has been called "The Newton of Biology." Darwin was modest of his monumental achievements to the very end and said of himself shortly before his death,"With such moderate abilities as I possess, it is truly surprising that I should have influenced to a considerable extent the belief of scientific men on some important points."

Views Toward Christians :: essays research papers

Some of the most important writings of the Apostolic Age were those of the new testament and the Apocryphal writings. These apocryphal writings resembled the New Testament writings, and many of them fell into the literary categories of gospel, acts, letters, and apocalypse's. These writings did not belong neither to the New Testament canon nor did the writings recognize any of the fathers of the church. Some of the documents were written for initiates in groups such as the Gnostics. For the groups that claimed knowledge derived from a secret tradition, the works were genuinely apocryphal, which means, "books kept hidden." Others were written for open and general use in the churches of which their authors were members. Many of these simply failed to become accepted as part of the orthodox canon of the Bible. There are many different views toward Christians. From an intellectual point of view, Christians agree with others as far as to follow Christ, and many have viewed them as a people who believe in the divine inspiration of the entire Bible and that this bible is sufficient enough to guide us in the right direction concerning all of our matters of faith. They view us (myself being a Catholic) as a people who believe that the moral principles of Jesus are the absolute truth, and that the New Testament must be our only guide in religious faith. On the other hand, there are those who view Christians. On the other hand, There were those who had sworn that Christians were atheists. They claimed that Christians were Atheist because they did not worship traditional religion. People actually believed that Christians supported no religion at all and were nothing other than non believers. They had also claimed that Christians practiced incest among one another because of their family gatherings at dinner time. Although not everyone believed these stories, they were still spread throughout many of the religious communities. The celebrations and the belief in the real, physical presence of Christ in the Eucharist grew from the teachings of the evangelists and St. Paul. They made it plain to the apostolic Church that the Eucharistic elements were literally Jesus Christ continuing His saving mission among men. The Eucharist celebrations began because of the Christians devotion and faith of the Real Presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist. The celebration of the Eucharist is founded on our Catholic doctrine and it is grounded on the solid rock of our Christian revelation.

Investigation of Sorrel in Epping Forest

Aim: The purpose of this coursework was to investigate the impact visitors have had on the growth of sorrel on Pillow Mound in Epping Forest and to find out whether soil compression has an effect on the height of the plant sorrel. Hypothesis: There will be a significant difference in the height of sorrel if soil compaction is great. The greater the soil compaction is, the more it restricts sorrel growth. Null Hypothesis: Read this  Respiratory Activity There is no significant correlation between soil compaction and the height of the sorrel plant, any correlation established is due to chance. Scientific knowledge: The soil has fewer spaces that contain air and water needed for plant growth, is less permeable, can store less soil water and is harder for roots to penetrate. In their virgin state, soils can be productive and characterised by excellent physical condition. They allow rapid movement of air and water through the soil, providing an ideal environment for maximum root growth. However, soils are fragile and easily restructured, especially during cropping. Compaction is an example of this restructuring. If compacted badly enough, a soil does not provide adequate space for root growth and soil animal activity, or allow for rapid movement of air and water. In severe cases, roots are unable to penetrate into deeper soil layers, tending to grow along the top of the pan. The best way for water and air to move through the soil is in large pores created by decaying plant roots or soil insects and earthworms this creates a humus layer on the top of the soil which has many nutrients the sorrel can take up. The eventual death and decay of these organisms adds to the humus layer making the soil more favourable to sorrel plant roots allowing the plant to grow and flower. Water plays a major role in plant growth. Plants synthesise carbohydrates from Carbon Dioxide and Water. Water donates + ions to the cell, which are subsequently used in pathways to generate energy in the form of ATP. In non-cyclic phosphorylation water molecules are split to provide reducing power to make carbohydrates. Water is also an important transport medium delivering dissolved minerals that are essential for plant growth to all parts of the plant via the xylem. Water is a product in aerobic respiration. Respiration is the process of metabolizing (burning) sugars to yield energy for growth, reproduction, and other life processes. In a plentiful supply of air glucose and oxygen combine to form water and carbon dioxide and most vitally energy in the form of ATP. Water also maintains the turgor pressure in giving the non-woody plant parts form. Turgidity is important so the plant can remain stiff and upright and gain a competitive advantage when it comes to light. Turgidity is also important for the functioning of the guard cells, which surround the stomata and regulate water loss and carbon dioxide uptake. Turgidity also is the force that pushes roots through the soil. Variables: Independent: Soil compaction tested every 3m for 28 m along 4 line transects to see how soil compaction affects plant growth. Soil compaction tested with use of penetrometer. Dependent: Height of the plant sorrel on each line transect created every 3m up to 28m at the site Pillow Mound in Epping Forest. Sorrel height tested using a ruler and the sorrel closest to the line transect was used. Control Variables: The variables that remain unchanged or held constant to prevent its effects on the outcome and therefore may verify the behaviour of and the relationship between independent and dependent variables. The variables tested for in my investigation must be the same in order for me to establish a reliable correlation between soil compaction and the height of the sorrel plant. Light Intensity Light energy (sunlight) is the primary source of energy in nearly all ecosystems. It is the energy that is used by green plants (which contain chlorophyll) during the process of photosynthesis; a process during which plants manufacture organic substances by combining inorganic substances. Visible light is of the greatest importance to plants because it is necessary for photosynthesis. Factors such as quality of light, intensity of light and the length of the light period (day length) play an important part in an ecosystem. Light directly or indirectly affects the life activities. For the photosynthetic activity of green plants light is essential. Growth, germination, flowering and other functions of plant are controlled by photoperiodism and different light rays. The higher the light intensity, the larger the height of the plant of sorrel. A light meter was used to gather light intensity readings. It gives an accurate lux value. The sensor is placed facing upwards and a value s given . For each line transect light intensity has to be very similar to ensure our variables remain the same so we gather reliable data. I set out each transect away from trees which created shadows and so this ensured that light intensity remained constant throughout each line transect. pH of Soil The pH level of the surrounding soil can have extreme results on the growth rate and overall health of a plant. The pH is technically defined as the negative base ten logarithm of the effective hydrogen ion concentration in gram equivalents per litre. It is measured on a scale of 1-14, with each reading being shown as an acid, base, or a neutral solution. If the measurement is less than 7, it is considered an acid. The plant sorrel grows best in the acidic pH conditions of 5.5 – 6.8. The pH of the soil for each line transect created must be the same for the whole 28 m length tested for each. Variation in my pH results limits the validity of my data as it influences the height of sorrel. pH influences availability of certain nutrients such as phosphate availability which is low on acid soils. Soil samples are taken from each transect at 1m 13m and 28m. Back in the laboratory barium sulphate and indicator solution are added to the samples and ph is worked out. Soil Temperature Soil temperature plays an important role in many processes, which take place in the soil such as chemical reactions and biological interactions. Soil temperature varies in response to exchange processes that take place primarily through the soil surface. These effects are propagated into the soil profile by transport processes and are influenced by such things as the specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity. Soil temperature affects water and nutrient uptake. Biological enzymes work best at certain temperatures, if enzyme optimum temperature is exceeded or not reached this could limit the rate to which the enzyme is working limiting the growth and in turn the height of the plant sorrel. Soil temperature has a major effect on the breakdown or decomposition of soil organic matter. This organic component of the soil system is a major reservoir for phosphorus, sulphur, and nitrogen. Approximately 90% of the total amount of sulphur in soil is found in the organic matter. So, if decomposition is slowed, the ready availability of some nutrients necessary for crop growth can be restricted early in the growing season restricting plant growth.† Soil temperature (à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½C) readings are to be taken with the use of a soil thermometer and then recorded on a table. Preliminary Investigation A day before my data collection, I visited Plain Mounds and gathered some preliminary data. My preliminary data was carried out to help me find the sites that should be tested and the distance of each line transect. Initially before preliminary data a 37m line transect was chosen, however, once I experienced the site a 28 m distance was most appropriate as there is no significant variation after the 28m in sorrel height; therefore it would be pointless and time consuming to carry it over a larger distance. Preliminary Investigation Method: 1. A line transect created over a distance of 28m. 2. Tape measure placed flat along the ground vertically. Stretch tape to cover 28m in a straight line along site investigated. 3. Data readings for soil temperature, light intensity, soil pH, soil compression and sorrel height at 1m, 13m and 28m. 4. Soil compaction measurements taken using a penetrometer My readings were taken 1cm at a 90à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ angle at each interval to the left of the line transect. The scale was set to 0 by moving the ring to the handle, the spike was then pushed vertically into the ground until the indention is level with the surface of the soil. The handle was released and then the results were read off the scale on the side of the penetrometer. 5. The soil thermometer was placed at a 90à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ angle 2 cm away to the left of the line transect at every interval. 6. Place a 1m long ruler across the line transect at a 90à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ angle this way I can work out which sorrel plant is closest to the line transect. Once this was worked out, a 30cm ruler was used to measure the sorrel height in its natural position. 7. Light meter measures the light intensity. Place the sensor at a 90à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ angle next to line transect where the sorrel plant is growing. Value in lux read off the scale. 8. Use auger to gain 10cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ sample at the 3 intervals. Twist auger in a clockwise direction whilst pushing down; the soil sample taken must be then placed into soil bags and taken to the lab for further testing of pH. 9. Record data on pre prepared table. 10. In lab to work out pH of soil: 11. 1cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ of each soil sample was placed into separate test tubes. 1cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ of distilled water was added to each test tube. After distilled water added, 1cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ Barium Sulphate was added to each test tube. Finally indicator was added to each test tube and pH was tested and found out by comparing to a pH scale. A systematic stratified approach was decided as my ideal sampling technique. Systematic sampling is when samples are taken at fixed intervals, usually along a line. This normally involves doing transects, where a sampling line is set up across areas where there are clear environmental gradients. Systematic sampling is my chosen method of sampling for my investigation as I am investigating the changes of plant species as you move along a gradient. Stratified sampling was used as we were comparing 4 different subdivisions within Plain Mounds. Systematic Stratified is the combination of these 2 sampling techniques; it's my preferred sampling technique as it avoids bias and for each sample collected the same approach is followed. this now seemed unnecessary due to little variation after 28m. The start point of the line transect was set to where variation in ground begins. Apparatus: Penetrometer Measures the compaction of the soil. Measures in Kg/cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ Simple and easy to use. Data can be gathered very quickly. Light Meter Used to measured light intensity every 3 metres along each line transect for 28 m. Measured in Lux Gives an accurate Lux value, instrument easy to use and data can be gathered easily Auger Barium Sulphate Soil bags Test tube Spatula pH scale Auger used to get 3 soil samples one sample at 1m the others at 13m and 28m. Soil sample needed so pH of soil could be identified once barium sulphate distilled water and indicator were added to each sample. Sample placed in soil bags. Soil sample placed in individual test tube using spatula and barium sulphate and indicator solution added. A soil pH meter would have been convenience wise much easier to achieve the data, however, adding the barium sulphate to the soil samples taken has ensured my data reliability. Primary data as I have gathered my results here without help of an instrument. Tape measure Used to create line transect. Line transect 28m long. 28m length chosen as after the 28m there is no change in variation of sorrel height, therefore anything more than a line transect of over 28m is irrelevant Soil Thermometer Used to measure soil temperature (à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½C) Easy and quick. A mercury thermometer effectively. An electronic instrument could be more reliable as human error won't come into it in reading the results 30 cm ruler Used to measure sorrel height Easy and simple to measure plant height 1m ruler Used every 3m to go at a 90à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ angle across every 3m to find the closest sorrel plant to the line transect 30cm in some cases not long enough, however 1m long ruler the right size Method: 1. Create a line transect, open up tape measure up to 28m. 2. Place tape measure flat along the ground vertically. Stretch tape measure to cover 28m in straight line along site that we are investigating. 3. Take data readings for soil temperature, light intensity, soil compression and sorrel height at 1m, 4m, 7m, 10m, 13m, 16m, 19m, 22m, 25m, and 28m. 4. Soil compaction measurements taken using a penetrometer which measures the force needed to push the spike into the ground. My readings were taken 1cm at a 90à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ angle at each interval to the left of the line transect. The scale was set to 0 by moving the ring to the handle, the spike was then pushed vertically into the ground until the indention is level with the surface of the soil. The handle was released and then the results were read off the scale on the side of the penetrometer. 5. The soil thermometer was placed at a 90à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ angle 2 cm away to the left of the line transect at every interval. 6. Along the line transect at each interval a metre long ruler is placed across the line transect at a 90à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ angle this way I can work out which sorrel plant is closest to the line transect. Once this was worked out, a 30cm ruler was used to measure the sorrel height in its natural position. 7. Light meter measures the light intensity. Place the sensor at a 90à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ angle next to line transect where the sorrel plant is growing. Value in lux read off the scale. Move away from sensor so your shadow doesn't affect lux value. 8. Take soil samples at 1m, 13m and 28m to calculate soil pH. Use auger to gain 10cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ sample at the 3 intervals. Twist auger in a clockwise direction whilst pushing down; the soil sample taken must be then placed into soil bags and taken to the lab for further testing of pH. 9. Record data on pre prepared table. 10. In lab to work out pH of soil: * 1cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ of each soil sample was placed into separate test tubes. 1cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ of distilled water was added to each test tube. After distilled water added, 1cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ Barium Sulphate was added to each test tube. Finally indicator was added to each test tube and pH was tested and found out by comparing to a pH scale. 3pH readings gained at each of the 4 sites. 11. Repeat the steps for the 4 subdivisions within Pillow Mound. Risk Assessment: Risk is the probability of harm actually taking place. A hazard exists where situation has a built-in ability to cause an adverse effect. At the site Pillow Mound in Epping Forest, a few risks were associated with my investigation. 1. 8 pieces of equipment needed to be carried with me to the site to help with this and limit the risk of me tripping up with all the equipment in my hand, a tray was used to place all the equipment needed for the investigation. 2. The sites surface was very uneven at all the areas that were tested within plain mounds. To control the hazard I had no other option but to take my time with walking across the field. Taking my time and making sure I was looking where I was stepping ensured this hazard was avoided. 3. Slippery surfaces and deep muddy areas were also an issue to avoid this specific hazard wellington boots were worn. Strong boots may prevent twisting of ankle. 4. Gathering pH samples with the auger meant there was a risk of causing injury to my wrists, to help with the turning of the into the ground another auger was placed in the top of the one in the ground making it easier to rotate the auger by creating a handle. 5. When testing soil pH samples, gloves had to be worn to avoid contact with the barium sulphate. Safety goggles and lab coats also used to protect the eyes and the skin. 6. After the soil pH has been tested the remaining soil is then placed into a compost bin. Analysis: The scatter graph shown in figure 1.1 shows how soil compression affected the growth of sorrel. The data inputted into this graph was averages of the data collected for soil compression (Kg) and sorrel height (cm) from the 4 subdivisions investigated and tested at Pillow Mound. The graph shows a clear negative correlation between soil compression and sorrel height. As soil compression increases it is evident that sorrel height decreases. The largest sorrel growth on average was 0.0975 cm and this was with a soil compression of 1.575 kg, my lowest sorrel growth recorded from my results was 0.0011cm with a soil compression of 3.6 kg. As sorrel height isn't constantly decreasing with increasing soil compaction it was appropriate to further my understanding and calculate how strong the relationship between my independent variable, soil compaction and dependent variable sorrel height was. This would also help me establish whether the data was causational or correlational. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient is a non-parametric measure of statistical dependence between two variables. It assesses how well the relationship between two variables can be described. It makes no assumption about data distribution. The value for rs is between +1 and -1, where +1 indicates a strong positive correlation, -1 indicates a strong negative correlation and 0 indicates no correlation at all. The data gathered at all 4 sites indicates a strong negative correlation between soil compression and the height of sorrel. The rs value gathered for my averages was -0.89 and this is greater than the critical value for 10 data sets at the 99% significance level. Therefore we can be 99% sure that soil compression restricts sorrel height and I can subsequently reject my null hypothesis establishing that causational relationship between the 2 variables is present. Conclusion: The purpose of this coursework was to find out about the impact which visitors have had on Epping Forest and how the subsequent soil compaction affects sorrel growth. Epping Forest has recreational, aesthetic and educational values, so is a perfect place for visitors. Considerable damage has probably been caused to the environment due to the large number of visitors. Soil compaction at Pillow Mound was relatively high probably due to human interference. Figure 1.0 showing the averages shows us that at 1m, the mean soil compression was 4.175 Kg whilst at 28m the mean soil compression was 1.575 Kg. Figure 0.9 also shows that at 1m at Site 4 soil compression exceeded 4.5 Kg. Management of the site is being introduced with the building of car parks, an information centre, and even a ditch next to the car park to stop the cars getting onto the grass. Epping Forest is one of a number of open spaces around London owned and managed by the City of London as part of its commitment to sustaining a world class city and for the conservation of wildlife and historic landscape. The investigation of how soil compaction affects the height of the plant Sorrel was gratifying as a correlation between soil compaction and Sorrel growth was determined. A slight flaw which may have had an impact on my results was the fact average light intensity increased slightly with increasing distance along the tape measure. At 1m light intensity was at 1894.25 Lux, at 28m this had increased to 1900.25 Lux with the Lux value fluctuating over the 28m distance. Although the differences in light intensities are little, my results are limited slightly as light intensity affects plant growth. The higher the light intensity the higher the plant growth. Light plays a major role in photosynthesis which is a 2 stage process involving the light dependent stage and light independent stage which could continue in the dark. When a photon of light hits a chlorophyll molecule the energy is transferred to the electrons of that molecule. The electrons are excited and raised to higher energy leve ls. If an electron is raised sufficiently it is picked up by an electron acceptor and results into ATP production via cyclic and non-cyclic phosphorylation. ATP is formed supplying the energy needed for synthesis of carbohydrates and the electron is passed along Electron Transport Chain (ETC). The differences in Lux are relatively minuscule along the line transects and so it is not sufficient enough to make my results invalid. Data collection was carried out in the morning before the sun had fully risen, as time passed and data was collected at each interval the sun carried on rising thus explaining the small differences in light intensity. In hindsight data collection should have happened at each interval at each of the 4 sites simultaneously, however, this was not viable as there were not enough people available to assist with data collection. My hypothesis that the greater the soil compaction, the lower the height of the Sorrel plant, has proved to be correct. This is due to the fact that soil compaction doesn't provide adequate space for the roots of the sorrel plant, which subsequently means that the plant cannot get enough nutrients, water and minerals from the soil which are needed for optimum growth. By using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient this was worked out and we are 99% certain that a negative correlation exists between the 2 variables. 4 different sites were tested at Pillow Mound in Epping Forest, and my Spearman's rank correlations for each site indicated a strong negative correlation. To back up my hypothesis even further my preliminary data indicate a negative correlation between Sorrel height and soil compaction. 10 samples were collected along each transect so we could get an RS value for spearman's rank that was 99% reliable and not down to chance. Evaluation My investigation was highly edifying and although I came to the conclusion that there is a 99% chance that soil compaction affects sorrel height proving my hypothesis correct, in hindsight I would make a few crucial amendments to my method and investigation so next time I carry out the investigation I will have an even higher level of confidence in my results. The 4 subdivisions at Pillow Mound were investigated to gain a general overview of the site. By testing one site, we are limiting our data as our results may only be conclusive for that part of Plain mounds. When collecting data light intensity values varied as the values could not be all taken at the same time. To avoid this more people could help with the fieldwork and we could simultaneously gain figures for light intensity at the same time. To do this more light meters would have to be provided. Time constraints were also a major issue. We were given around 3 hours to collect our fieldwork from 4 different sub divisions within Pillow Mound. Without time constraints there would be less pressure to complete the fieldwork within a specific time leaving us enough time to gather data with each instrument. Ideally a longitudinal study would be most ideal as the patterns established from the data was from only 1 day in the whole calendar year. Throughout the year, sorrel height will vary. The day my data was collected may not depict an average day in Epping Forest and so my data is invalid. A longitudinal study is ideal so we can collect data over the year and see how sorrel height varies. To increase data reliability we could collect data for soil compaction and sorrel height every 3 months at the same 4 subdivisions and see if there is any significant correlation. The weather would also have an effect on sorrel height; if it rains soil will be more compact and soil infiltration would not occur as rapidly. This in turn could affect seed germination as roots cannot penetrate lower soil layers. I expect plant height to be higher in the spring as spring provides optimum temperatures for seed germination, aswell as the fact that it doesn't rain as much during spring as it does winter, so soil will not become drenched allowing the roots to penetrate the soil greater and greater foundations allows a better uptake of minerals and greater sorrel growth. The most helpful modification would be to carry out this investigation on a different site within Epping Forest; this could show a clear contrast to how sorrel height varies with soil compaction. The data gathered in this study could only be relevant for Pillow Mound, so broadening our study to more than 1 site could further enhance data validity and reliability. Further investigations possibly using 2 paths at each subdivision could further validate data. As a pH probe was not available at the field centre, to measure pH of the soil we had to add a spatula full of barium sulphate as well as 1cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ of distilled water to 1 cmà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ of each soil sample in separate test tubes. The amount of barium sulphate added or the amount of soil sample added to each test tube would affect pH and so our pH values could vary due to human error and the variable wasn't of constant of using the same formula each time. A pH probe would eliminate human error and the same procedure could have been kept throughout and been kept constant.