The withered arm Essay Example for Free

The withered arm Essay The opening of the story, among the milkmaids, is much more innocent in terms of the tension and terror than the plot turns out to be although tension is shown here because of the mystery. This is similar to many of Hardys other novels. Terror is mainly brought out in the end when everyone passes away except Rhoda who may be the most evil character in the plot. In most of Hardys short stories written he uses unexpected twists to create terror and tension. This may link to the sort of life style in those times. Rhoda wants her mysterious unnamed son to observe the new Mrs. Lodge as Farmer Lodge and Rhoda have had a certain relationship. At this point of the short story the reader is bought to ask what type of relationship they had; we gradually learn that they have had a son together. Gertrude Lodge is much prettier than Rhoda, therefore Rhoda wants to know what type of person she is and how she had been bought up. Rhoda does this by sending her son for the second time to inspect her hands to see if they were rough, if so that would mean she would have done some work before. If Gertrude did not work this would mean that she would have been raised from a rich family who employed people like Rhoda to do the work for them. You never told me what sort of hand she had, Tension is created by the fact that she is so inquisitive about Gertrude but she does not go and speak or see her personally. Tension is again also created because Farmer Lodge totally ignores and takes no notice of his own son even when he could see his son was in pain by carrying a heavy load. This shows the fact that he does not want Gertrude to know about the relationship. It may also be because in the time when the short story was written there was a palpable set of classes. If you were seen having a relationship with one of your social subordinates, especially a sexual relationship, you would be made an outcast from the particular social sector and your reputation would be ruined. At the beginning of the short story Gertrude cares for the boy being charitable towards him, she gives the unnamed boy boots and other useful articles. We presume that this is more than Farmer Lodge has ever done for the boy. The irony brings out tension also because the reader is scared that Gertrude might find out that the boy is her husbands son. The eerie setting of the story and where Rhoda lives primarily creates tension at first. The environment is isolated and desolate. We also see this as a similarity to the emerging character of Rhoda. The home she lives in is made with mud, which is usually associated with dirty and poor things. The surface had been washed into channels and depressions, the word depression had a double entendre; firstly being geographical term but secondly as gloominess. This creates a hidden sense of tension. The roof was also hatched; this looked like a bone protruding through the skin. This simile gives the reader a sense of apprehension as they can actually imagine this happen to their own body. The health is also a predominant feature in literature; this is usually associated with evil. The dream is the basis of the short story; tension is created as we are left with many unanswered questions. Firstly we are questioned about the reality of the dream. We are given many implications that it is, Gertrudes arm stared to hurt at the exact time when Rhodas spectral encounter. If this were true the reader would secondly be questioned whether the dream was a coincidence or if witchcraft had played a part. Tension is created by the fact that none of the questions are actually answered in the short story. Progressively we see the relationship between Rhoda and Gertrude become firmer. We see Rhoda give advice over what Gertrude should do over her increasingly withering arm. The reader now observes an immense form of dramatic irony because Gertrude asks Rhoda to go to the Conjuror with her. Rhoda, although hesitant of going with her because of her inconspicuous acts, agrees to Mrs. Lodge. Could you not go with me, to show the way? This also creates tension within the short story as the reader fears that Rhoda might get caught for the suspected misdemeanors she may have adversely done. At Conjurer Trendles home the first reaction that he had was that an enemy had been in Gertrudes life. Rhoda immediately goes away. This make the reader suspect more wrong doings by her and a sense of tension is created. When Rhoda went, Trendle bought out an egg and cracked it into a glass of water and told Gertrude to see what figure she saw. The response was inaudible to the reader so another sense of tension is created. Also when Gertrude came out of the conjurors house, she did not want to speak to Rhoda and said she cares not to speak, of what she saw. This enhances the tension because the reader gets a strong feeling that Rhoda is involved, and the question of her innocence is reduced in the readers mind. Rhoda leaves the farm straight after the incident; this creates even more tension about Rhodas innocence. We do not find out where she actually goes; we just presume she has left because she is guilty and does not want to be convicted of the crimes committed. In the short story we see a defiance of social principle. Gertrude, a rich upper class woman, is starting to mix with lower class people like Rhoda Brook, Trendle and a Hangman. Rhoda Brook is a very poor woman and is employed to do other peoples work, as she is a maid; this shows that she is lower than Gertrude as her husband has employed her. Conjurer Trendle is associated with potions and magic, which in those days is known as witchcraft. You would be placed in the bottom of society if you were slightly interrelated with it. This would be the same if you were to be associated with the hangman. Rhodas son is a key character in the opening of the short story but he is pushed aside in the middle and bought back in a major way creating an unanticipated twist to the text. He is unnamed in the story, which creates a slightly sinister atmosphere. (This is known as connotation). Terror is also shown when she is at Trendles house for the first time. When Trendle does the egg experimentation the reader is not told whom Gertrude thinks she sees. Therefore the reader presumes automatically that it was Rhoda who did it by witchcraft. The main point of terror is shown to the reader when Gertrude does not wish to talk to Rhoda about what he said. This is the main point where the text implies it was her. Gertrude also questions Rhoda about why it was her idea to visit Trendle; this also implies that Gertrude thinks Rhoda is her enemy. The whole incident brings terror to the story as the reader cannot predict what is going to happen next even after Rhoda has left Holmestoke. Gertrude visits Trendle for a second time; this time the main terror before the end is bought out. To heal her arm Gertrude has to touch the neck of a freshly hung person to turn the circulation of blood. At the beginning of the story Gertrude would never think of doing this but her character had changed, her light had been blown out because she is so desperate to get her husband, Farmer Lodge, back. This terror is not expected of her but she actually hopes someone get hanged soon for her own comfort. This is a fefinite change from the kind, giving Gertrude. Also she states that she wants to hang an innocent person increases the terror. O Lord hang some guilty or innocent person soon! The end of the short story has a twist like many of Hardys work. Terror is bought out just the second Gertrude is about to heal her arm. The scream of Rhoda with Farmer Lodge takes Gertrude into a shock turning the blood to far over, putting her in a coma. There is terror in all three angles. Firstly the fact that Gertrude is doing this horrible deed, secondly the fact that Rhodas son is the boy being hanged and thirdly Farmer Lodge is actually there with Rhoda. Gertrude obviously reacts to this because like everyone else except Rhoda she dies at the end of the ordeal. Tension is also created for Rhoda and Farmer Lodge as they may think that Gertrude may have been involved with the execution of their son. Also the fact that Rhoda refers to Satan when she sees Gertrude enhances the tension surrounding the mystery. The main question at the end of the story is who is the main source of evil during these times. The son cannot have been as he has not been allowed to be involved with the matter although he is used as a messenger at the beginning of the short story. Farmer Lodge does not seem to be interested in the matter of the involvement of Rhoda all he seems to care about is the beauty of his wife and his social status. This leaves us with the two main character, Rhoda and Gertrude. It could be either one of them Rhoda at the end admits to being involved with Satan. But this is not shown in form of action in the text so she could have just meant the dream at the start of the short story and said the involvement with Satan in the spur of the moment. This is the meaning of what Satan showed me. This also implies that Satan showed her that Gertrude is evil. Gertrude can also be seen as evil as she was the one who appeared in the dream in the first place. She could be involved with witchcraft because its She is the person who actually got hit down. Also the fact that she mixes with hangmen and Trendle show the fact she is going to the evil side of society. The reader does not know which one is the real source of evil even though Rhoda is the only one to exist this is left in suspense which creates tension. In conclusion tension and terror are seen in all chapters of the story; each one leaves a question unanswered so tension is easily created. The main section of terror and tension was the fact that everyone dies except Rhoda who carries on her life in the milk shed. The short story is ambiguous because nothing is definite and the reader must use their imagination to predict the future in each part of the story. This is the basis of tension and terror throughout the short story.

Communication Barriers Between Singapore And Italy Cultural Studies Essay

Communication Barriers Between Singapore And Italy Cultural Studies Essay Singapore is an amalgamation of 63 islands, and is the smallest country in Southeast Asia. The approximate distance between Singapore and Italy is about 9365.5km apart (Distance from Singapore to Italy), yet a lot of firms set up their flagships and also other  business functions locally. Published on Straits Times-22 April 2009 titled: Spore, Italian region ink deal, Both countries are looking at RD to boost their economic prosperity. We are trying to work together so hopefully we can find new patents, products that can be commercialized. Thats the value for Singapore, he added. Lombardys President Roberto Formigoni said Singapore is strategic for Italy, especially in leveraging on Singapores knowledge of, and relations with, China and Vietnam. This shows the strong bilateral relationship between both countries. (Spore, Italian region ink deal) However, being said that, there are still problems occurring during day-to-day operations in terms of communication between Singaporean and Italians. This paper will focus on the inter-relationship communication barriers faced by both Singaporeans and Italians in a particular organization.   Overview of Singapore Singapore and Europe had great history links since 1869 when Singapore was a major trading and shipping port. (Who We Are).   After nearly 150 years under the British Colony, Singapore emerged as a Nation in 1965. (Rogger, Year not stated) Thus, this may portray a deceptive imagine of Singaporeans as appearing more westernized. However, on the other hand, younger generations of business people in Singapore are usually more experience in interacting with people and are more flexible and open-minded to perform business with foreigners. (Katz, 2007) Singapore is a cosmopolitan society where people live harmoniously and interactions among different races are commonly seen. Singapore holds a diverse population due to immigrants of the past has given the place a mixture of 3 major racial groups consisting of Chinese, Malay and Indians who does not process a single dominant national identity (Warnstam, 2007). In order to do business successfully in a multicultural country like Singapore, it is important for all to understand the different cultural traditions, customs, as well as background of each race groups. This will prevent unnecessary conflicts. Languages Used in Singapore English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil are the four official languages that are commonly used in Singapore. Singapore also has its own brand of spoken English, which is known as Singlish. It is quite different from English in its speaking accents and grammar.   Religion in Singapore Singapore generally allows religious freedom, although religious groups are subject to government scrutiny, and some religious sects are restricted or banned. (http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2798.htm). The religion diversity in Singapore consists of Chinese temples (Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism and ancestor worship), Islam, Hinduism, Christianity and others which comprises of Jews and Sikhs, etc (Lepoer, 1989). Culture and Society of Singapore The Family The common traits of Singaporeans are that the concepts of harmony, mutual security and working in groups are more important than that of acting as an individual. The family represents the center of the social structures which strongly emphasizes in unity, loyalty and respect for the elderly (Kwintessential, Year not stated). Kiasu Kiasu is a term often used by Singaporean to describe the social attitude of Singaporeans who are often afraid of losing in anything or in any situation (Warnstam, 2007). According to Warnstam (2007), the term Kaisu refers to both positive and negative connotation; some suggest the attitude of being Kiasu reflects the strong work ethics and competitiveness within each Singaporean. Whereas, others might feel that being Kiasu leads to a graceless society.   Concept of Face Maintaining face plays an important part of the Singapore culture. As per Craig (2004), the concept of face is being measured as of ones internal quality, status, good name, and good character. To prevent from losing face, Singaporeans tends to control their temper and behavior in public and will not criticize people directly on the face (Warnstam, 2009). Thus, communication is conducted indirectly. In Singapore, face does not involve purely on personal pride but involves the country and its whole population as it promotes group harmony and solidarity.   Diversity Singapore values the diversity of its people and often stresses the importance of accepting difference amongst its diverse population of people from different races such as Chinese, Malay and Indians. Despite the evitable separation of some groups, Singapore serves as an umbrella culture creates a sense of belonging among all Singaporeans (Warnstam, 2007). Singapore Education System Singapore used to implement traditional British based education system. Presently, the system has evolved to a broad based education with more flexibility and diversity. The distinct feature of the Singapore education system is the bilingual policy. It was implemented in 1966. It was compulsory for students to take up the main median language-English to be able to communicate with other races and also with foreigners. This will help Singaporeans to communicate effectively with fellow Singaporeans that will prevent any unnecessary conflicts due to miscommunication. It also helps Singaporeans to be able to communicate efficiently wherever they are in the world as English is a widely used language internationally. Another language is the students traditional language, be it Chinese, Malay, Tamil, this is to maintain the values of the respective racial groups locally. Students will attend basic education for 6 years after pre-school. And follow on into secondary school and so on. However, education does not just end after graduating. Singaporeans have many opportunities for further trainings as the Singapore government is focusing to develop its workforce so as to increase productivity. The government is also targeting in creating a skilled workforce to increase global competitiveness. Singapore Politics Singapore had her first elections in 1959 after being granted full internal self-governance. The dominating party in the country is the Peoples Actions Party (PAP) that is lead by Mr. Lee Kuan Yew. He is also the present minister mentor, a position created when his son, Lee Hsien Long became Singapores third prime minister. Opposition parties are namely the workers party (WP), Singapore Democratic Alliance Party (SDA), Singapore Democratic Party (SDA), Democratic Party (SDP) and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Singapore was recognized internationally through joining the United Nations, followed by the Commonwealth in 1965. (Singapore, Overview: Politics of Singapore) The unicameral Parliament currently consists of 84 members elected on the basis of universal adult suffrage, and up to nine nominated members of Parliament. A constitutional provision assures at least three opposition members, even if fewer than three actually are elected. A non-constituency seat held by the opposition under this provision since 1997 was again filled after the last election held on May 6, 2006. In May 2006, general election, the governing Peoples Action Party (PAP) won 82 of the 84 seats. The president appoints nominated members of Parliament from among nominations by a special select committee. Nominated members of Parliament (NMPs) enjoy the same privileges as members of Parliament but cannot vote on constitutional matters or expenditures of funds. The maximum term of Parliament is 5 years. NMPs serve for two-and-a-half-year terms. Voting has been compulsory since 1959. (Background note: Singapore) Singapore is a democratic society. However, Economist Intelligent Unit has classified Singapore as a hybrid country that comprises of both authoritarianism and democracy. The present Singapore enjoys political stability that attracts investors and foreign talents. Overview of Singapore Economy   Despite the small geographic size of the nation and small domestic market, Singapore not only has strong international trade links with many countries. Singapore Economy is also one of the most prosperous globally. Singapore was ranked third in 2009 as being the most competitive economy in the world by the world economic forum. (Singapore keeps 3rd spot in competitiveness ranking). According to the World Bank Doing Business 2010 Report, Singapore economy is considered to be the easiest to do business in. Some favorable findings about Singapore stated in the report: Ranked No.1 for having the most open and liberal economy for international trade Ranked No.2 as the economy with the best  investment  potential Ranked #1 in Asia and #4 in the world for having low levels of corruption in the economy (Economy Rankings; Singapore Economy) Singapore does not have natural resources. However, due to its strategic location and government policies, it became a hub of foreign investment. The local government practices a pro-foreign investment and export-orientated economic policy. This helps to attract large scale of foreign investment despite its high operating cost. For example: United States have invested about $106.5billion worth assets in the service and manufacturing sectors. Other factor that attracts the foreign investors is skilled workers, advanced infrastructure, political stability and corruption free government. (Background Note: Singapore) Hierarchy and Structure of Singapore Companies In Singapore, companies operate in a top-down structure whereby the senior management in the company does all major decision-makings. Respect is given prior to the senior members of the group and is always being introduced first. It is always polite to stand when a higher-ranking official arrives at a venue, and to be seated after the important personnel is seated.   Unlike other countries, women also play an important role in the work field and are given chances to hold managerial positions in the organizations. There is no prejudice against gender, age and race due to the fair employment law.   Singapore Business Practices In Singapore business culture, building of personal relationships is considered more important that the company that you represents (ASAG-biotech network, Year unknown). During business situations, a light handshake is used (Warnstam, 2007). Singaporeans love to bargain and haggle during negotiations. (Katz, 2007) Whilst in business discussion, Singaporeans appears to be calm and hardly reveals their emotions. It is also considered very rude to speak loudly or interrupt during a conversation.   It is important that business cards are being inspected carefully before putting them away as it represents a form of respect and recognition of the person. Name cards should be held with both hands and present to the recipient with the correct print facing to him / her. Name cards should be placed on the table instead of shoving into pockets or bags as a form of respect. It is also important to wait and be introduced by the host. Intensive eye contact with a senior management or an elderly is considered a sign of disrespect. In order to show a form of respect, it is important to know how to greet a person name based on his / her race. For example, greeting via surnames is necessary during the first meeting with Singaporean Chinese. Gifts are acceptable in most organizations. However, gifts to government employees may be considered as bribery and is prohibited in Singapore (Warnstam, 2007). Singapore Working Practices In Singapore Business society, punctuality is extremely important and efforts should be made to arrive early or on time. Appointments should be made in advance. Should there be any late arrivals, it is of basic courtesy to inform the other party and also to advise the latest arrival time. The typical office hours are normally between 9:00a.m. to 5:00 pm from Mondays to Fridays that consists of an hour lunch break in between. Some offices will also operate on Saturdays especially in the morning.   Overview of Italy Italy used to be diverse culturally, economically and politically. However, today the Italians are largely homogeneous linguistically and religiously. Italy has the fifth-highest population density in Europe, with a approximate population of 60 million people (Italy Travel Guide). Minority groups are small, the largest being the German-speaking people of Bolzano Province and the Slovenes around Trieste. There are also small communities of Albanian, Greek, Ladino, and French origin. Although immigration has been increasing in recent years, the Italian population is still declining due to low birth rates. (Affairs, 2010) Brief history of Italy Through the ensuing years, numerous rulers from beyond the Alps, with or without the consent of the papacy, failed to impose their authority. Throughout the fourteen and fifteenth centuries of campanilismo (local patriotism), only a minority of people would have heard the word Italia. Loyalties were predominantly provincial. However, there were elements that made a strong contrast to the world beyond the Alps that is a common legal culture, high levels of lay education and urban literacy, a close relationship between town and country, and nobility who frequently engaged in trade. There are three features, in particular, from this period that solidified the notion of a unified culture. First, it was the maturing of the economic development that was originated in the early centuries. With increasing urbanization, the northern and central Italian trade, manufacture, and financial capitalism continued with extraordinary vigor and have remarkable influence throughout majority of the Mediterranean areas and Europe as a whole. It was a development that served as the necessary preliminary for the expansion of Europe beyond its ancient bounds at the end of the fifteenth century. Second, the extension of de facto independent city-states, which, whether as republics or as powers ruled by one person or family, created a powerful impression upon contemporaries and posterity. Finally, allied to the movements stated above, it was in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries that civilization of the Italian Renaissance was born from this society, which was to be exported to the rest of Europe. Ethnic Relations Many countries and peoples have conquered and occupied Italy over the centuries, and thus, causing the Italians to resent each of these conquerors. Even so, they intermarried with them and accepted a number of their customs. (Salamone) Culture of Italians Ethnic Italians make up about 95% of the population, and the largest ethnics minority of the Romanians (officially 1%, however maybe double that). There is an increaseing wave of immigration from the EU countries of Eastern Europe and illegal immigration from the south-eastern Europe and northern Africa are increasing. Appearances matters in Italy and having a good image bella figure is very important. And you will likely be judged not only by the smartness of your clothes and accessories, but also by the general style and demeanour. Social etiquette is generally energetic but also somewhat formal. (Italy) Economy of Italy Italy started to industrialize rapidly after 1945, moving away from the traditional agriculture, until a point where less than 5% of the population is engaged in agriculture. The majority of these populations live in the south of Italy, which is substantially poorer than the rest of the country. Their main crops are sugar beet, wheat, tomatoes and fruit (especially grapes. Majority of the grapes are used for wine, which Italy is a leading producer). Italy continues to rely heavily on the export of manufactured goods, although the tourism industry is enjoying a major position alongside other service industries such as financial services, along with most western European economies. Their strengths are particularly in advanced manufacturing techniques and systems, high-quality design and precision engineering. Most of the industrial raw materials and more than 75% of energy requirements are imported. The Italians economy has been sluggish since 2000 with growth in 2009 of 5% and is expected to drop further. The inflation in 2009 was just under 1% and the unemployment rate is 7.5%. Despite doubts about the size of its growing budget deficit (public debt is 105% of GDP) in Europe, Italy was among the founding members of the Euro-zone in 1999. The current government has enacted some reforms to improve competitiveness and growth. (Italy Travel Guide) Language The official language in Italy is Italian, and majority of the population (about 93%) are native Italian speakers and about 50% of population speaks a regional dialect as mother tongue. As many of the dialects are mutually unintelligible and are considered by linguists as a separate language, thus it is not officially recognised. Religion 90% of the populations are Roman Catholic, and the remaining of the populations comprises mainly of Jews, the growing population of Muslims, Orthodox and Eastern Rite Catholics. Politics The type of government in Italy is parliamentary democratic republic. The major political parties: People of Freedom (Popolo della Libertà  ), Democratic Party (Partito Democratico), Northern League (Lega Nord), Italy of Values (Italia dei Valori), Union of Christian and Centre Democrats (Unione dei Democratici Cristiani e di Centro), Communist Refoundation Party (Partito della Rifondazione Comunista). (_) Political Philosophy There is different types of political philosophy that existed in Italy are mainly egalitarian socialism / communism and nationalistic fascism. One of the examples is Benito Mussolini. He ruled as a dictator of Italy from 1922 to 1943 and his political philosophy, which he called fascism, was based on the total domination of the government in all spheres of political, social, economic, and cultural life. The Italians regards him as a hero in the initial stage until he was driven by the government before the end of World War II. (Benito Mussolini) Education At present the Italian school system is divided into four levels:   Kindergarten / Preschool (Scuola Materna) For children aged three to five, the scuola materna provides optional education for children and every child is entitled to a place. It is not compulsory for a child to attend preschool but most parents enrol their children in a scuola materna. Preschool in Italy is free except in private schools. Primary school (scuole elementare) School in Italy is compulsory from the age of six onwards. Recent legislation changes means that children may start scuola primaria from the age of five and a half onwards (this is to bring Italian schools in line with European schools regarding school leaving ages). Primary school lasts for five years. Student had to pass an exam at the end of fifth year before they could progress to secondary school. Lower secondary (scuola media) Attendance at lower secondary school (scuola media) is compulosry for all children between the ages of 11 to 14. Students are required to attend 30 hours of classes per week, though some schools may offer additional classes if there is demand (up to 40 hours). Every term, each student receives a teachers report outlining their aptitude, behavior and achievement. At the end of the third year, pupils sit a standard examination consisting of written papers in Italian, as well as exams in mathematics, science and a foreign language. An oral exam is also administered in all subjects except religion. Successful students are awarded their lower secondary school diploma (diploma di licenza media) and move on to upper secondary school. Upper secondary school (scuola superiore) Upper Secondary School (scuola superiore) involves between three and five years of attendance. Students do an obligatory two years (biennio) of general studies follow by an optional three years (triennio) of specialised education. Students have to choose at this time which type of course they want to study, depending on whether they are thinking of going on to university afterwards, or if they are looking at obtaining a vocational qualification. State school in Italy is free until the end of primary education. School in Italy is compulsory until the age of 16.   (Italian Education Schooling in Italy) Next, we will be making cultural differences comparison on Italy and Singapore using Geert Hofstede model. Geert Hofsted Cultural Dimensions Power Distance Index (PDI) that is the extent to which the less powerful members of organizations and institutions (like the family) accept and expect that power is distributed unequally. It suggests that a societys level of inequality is endorsed by the followers as much as by the leaders. Power and inequality are fundamental facts of any society and anyone with certain working experience or interaction will be aware that all societies are unequal.   Individualism (IDV) is the opposite of collectivism. Ties between individuals are loose: everyone is expected to look after him or herself and his or her immediate family. On the collectivist side, we find societies in which people from birth onwards are usually cohesive in groups and often extended families members continue in protecting them in exchange for unquestioning loyalty. The word collectivism may has no political meaning but it is referring to the group, but not the state. Again, the issue addressed is fundamental, regarding all societies in the world. Masculinity (MAS) is the opposite of femininity and it refers to the distribution of roles between the genders which is also a fundamental issue for any society to which a range of solutions are found. Studies revealed that womens values differ from mens values which mens values from one country to another contain assertiveness, competitiveness whereas womens values on the one other side tend to be modest and caring. The assertiveness and competitiveness pole has commonly been referred as masculine while modest and caring is commonly referred as feminine.   Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI) deals with a societys tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity; it ultimately refers to mans search for Truth. Uncertain situations are novel, unknown, surprising, and different from usual. Uncertainty avoiding cultures try to minimize the possibility of such situations by strict laws and rules, safety and security measures. People in countries which face uncertainty are also more emotional while people whom are receptive of uncertainty are more tolerant of opinions different from what they are used to. There are few rules to adhere to and people within these cultures are more phlegmatic and contemplative. Long-Term Orientation (LTO) versus short-term orientation: this fifth dimension was found in a study among students in 23 countries around the world, using a questionnaire designed by Chinese scholars it can be said to deal with Virtue regardless of Truth. Values usually associated with Long Term Orientation are thrift and perseverance while values associated with Short Term Orientation are respect for tradition, fulfilling social obligations, and saving one from embarrassment. Both the positively and the negatively rated values of this dimension are found in the teachings of Confucius, the most influential Chinese philosopher; however, the dimension also applies to countries without a Confucian heritage. [http://www.geert-hofstede.com/hofstede_italy.shtml] Geert Hofstedeà ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢ Cultural Dimensions The World Factbook 2002    The Buddhist-Shinto societies also have an additional Dimension, that of Long Term Orientation (LTO). Geert Hofstede added this Dimension after the original study, and it was applied to twenty-three of the fifty original countries in his study. The Buddhist/Shinto Countries of Taiwan and Japan have LTO as the most closely correlating Dimension. Comparisons between Singapore and Italy: Hofstedes Cultural Dimensions: Country: PDI IDV MAS UAI LTO Singapore 74 20 48 8 48 Italy 50 76 70 75 N.A Based on the statistics above, there are several differences between Singapore and Italy which will be discussed in as of the following. Power Distance Index (PDI) Power Distance (PD) refers to the degree of inequality that exists, which is being accepted, among the people with and without power. A high PD score indicates that the society accepts an unequal distribution of power and people would not go beyond their place in the system. A low PD means that power is shared and equally dispersed. This means that society members view everyone as equals. Application: According to the Hofstedes model, in a high PD such as Malaysia (PD of 104), employees from the lower management position would probably send reports to top management, who will have a closed door meeting where only a few leaders attends. In a low PD country such as Austria (PD of 11), the power are equally distributed among the lower and top management. Characteristics Tips High PD Centralized companies. Strong hierarchies. Large gaps in compensation, authority, and respect. Acknowledge a leaders power. Be aware that you may need to go to the top for answers Low PD Flatter organizations. Supervisors and employees are considered almost as equals. Use teamwork Involve as many people as possible in decision making. [http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_66.htm] Based on the PDI, Singapore has a higher PDI than that of Italy. Even though, Singapore and Italy shares the same aspects of hierarchy and a common trait of downward communication, Singaporeans tends to be more respectful to the senior management and elders. On the other hand, Italians are more outspoken in their speech and they love to ridicule authority and with people who are in positions of power (http://students.depaul.edu/~jborger/#Individualism). To Italians, breaking petty rules are a form of entertainment. However, breakings of rules are uncommon in Singapore. Individualism (IDV) Individualism (IDV) refers to the strength of ties people have to others within the community. A high IDV score indicates a loose connection in the society. Countries with a high IDV score there is a lack of interpersonal connection and little sharing of responsibility, beyond family and perhaps a few close friends. A low IDV scores means the society have strong group cohesion, and there will be a large amount of loyalty and respect for members of the group. The group itself is also larger and people take more responsibility for each others well being. Accordingly to the Hofstedes model, countries such as America have high individualism/collectivism dimensions and they are more individualistic. (http://www.nysscpa.org/cpajournal/2005/905/essentials/p62.htm) There are collectivistic dimensions countries in Central America such as Panama and Guatemala where the IDV scores are very low. Marketing campaign that emphasized benefits to the community would most likely be understood and well-received. Characteristics Tips High IDV High valuation on peoples time and their need for freedom. An enjoyment of challenges, and an expectation of rewards for hard work. Respect for privacy. Acknowledge accomplishments. Dont ask for too much personal information. Encourage debate and expression of own ideas. Low IDV Emphasis on building skills and becoming masters of something. Work for intrinsic rewards. Harmony more important than honesty. Show respect for age and wisdom. Suppress feelings and emotions to work in harmony. Respect traditions and introduce change slowly. [http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_66.htm] As individualism is being defined as societies connecting people are considered loose, individuals in Italy are only responsible for themselves and their immediate family members (http://students.depaul.edu/~jborger/#Individualism). However, Italians have also minimum views on collectivism in such whereby under people collective cultures are born into a group and they will remain the same members of that cohesive group for their entire lives. (http://students.depaul.edu/~jborger/#Individualism). On the other hand, despite the similarities of Singaporeans on their views on individualism, being a multi-racial society, Singaporeans are more on the side of being collective; in such whereby man is to be judged not by his own character, actions or race. (http://freedomkeys.com/collectivism.htm)   Masculinity (MAS) Masculinity (MAS) This refers to how much a society sticks with, and values, traditional male and female roles. High MAS scores are found in countries where men are expected to be tough, to be the provider, to be assertive and to be strong. If women work outside the home, they have separate professions from men. Low MAS scores do not reverse the gender roles. In a low MAS society, the roles are simply blurred. You see women and men working together equally across many professions. Men are allowed to be sensitive and women can work hard for professional success. Application: Japan is highly masculine with a score of 95 whereas Sweden has the lowest measured value. According to Hofstedes analysis, if you were to open an office in Japan, you might have greater success if you appointed a male employee to lead the team and had a strong male contingent on the team. In Sweden, on the other hand, you would aim for a team that was balanced in terms of skill rather than gender. Characteristics Tips High MAS Men are masculine and women are feminine. There is a well defined distinction between mens work and womens work. Be aware that people may expect male and female roles to be distinct. Advise men to avoid discussing emotions or making emotionally-based decisions or arguments. Low MAS A woman can do anything a man can do. Powerful and successful women are admired and respected. Avoid an old boys club mentality. Ensure job design and practices are not discriminatory to either gender. Treat men and women equally. [http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_66.htm] Based on the model of Hofstedes Cultural Dimensions, Italy has a higher level of Masculinity than Singapore. Many Italian men are still treating women with gallantry and value machismo. (http://students.depaul.edu/~jborger/#Individualism). Despite women entering the workforce, the numbers are kept minimal and only a few are in a higher management. Responsibilities of Italian women are mainly to cook, clean and care for the children

Violence in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn :: essays research papers

Violence in Literature Mohandas Gandhi once stated these words, "I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary, the evil it does is permanent." The same can be said about many things in life. However, when thought about, few people may consider the violence brought up in literature. In the novel The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, there are many scenes that illustrate the blind, violent nature that most humans tend to share. Mark Twain has used violence throughout his novel to enhance his beliefs on the injustices of slavery and any other form of senseless violence known to mankind. From the beginning with Pap's continuous abuse towards Huck, till the end with Emmiline Grangerfords poetry, is filled with violent sections that magnify the hypocrisy and stupidity of people. Almost immediately we are introduced to the drunken, deranged man who is Huck?s father, Pap. Pap is an alcoholic who roams from place to place buying up booze and sleeping wherever he can. Huck has never viewed him as a real father figure because Pap has almost never been there for Huck, except when he is ?disciplining? him. Pap is uneducated and disapproves of Huck attending school. Pap tells Huck, "you're educated...You think your're better'n your father, now, don't you, because he can't?" (14) Huck puts up with Pap?s numerous beatings because he does not want to be the cause of any more controversies between himself and Pap. Huck explains, "If I never learnt nothing else out of pap, I learnt that the best way to get along with his kind of people is to let them have their own way" (95). Pap?s addiction to alcohol is how Twain views the affect that alcohol can have on a person. He believes that alcohol is a money waster, can affect the sanity of people, and how it can turn even de cent men into complete scoundrels. Subsequently, Huck continues his journey down the river to another town where he suddenly finds himself staying with the Grangerfords. Huck soon befriends a boy named Buck who tells him all about the feud between the Grangerfords and the Shepherdsons. Both have been fighting for over 30 years but neither of them know exactly why they are battling each other. Buck explains, ??but they don?t know now what the row was about in the first place?(180). The tribal ware fare of the families is suppressed with religion.

Careers: Florist Essay -- essays research papers

I chose floral design for my career. A florist does a variety of things in a retail flower shop. The main thing is arranging flowers. They prepare bouquets, corsages, funeral pieces, dried floral arrangements, and decorations for weddings, parties, and events. Depending on how much the owner asks of them, some florists are in charge of ordering flowers, ribbon, giftware, and other hard goods. Some also do the bookkeeping. I Chose this career because when I was little I used to go to Garden Gazebo and my Aunt Linda would give me scrap flowers to play with. Then when my grandma bought it I would come up during the summer and watch the girls work. A year and a half ago I started working there. When I started it was just bookkeeping, but I spent a lot of the summer learning design. It’s fun working at the flower shop, that’s the main reason I chose this career. Also, I already know a lot about the business between working in the office and out in the store.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There isn’t much schooling needed for this job. An eye for color, design, and depth are most important. Most florists learn on the job. Working part time and summer jobs in flower shops and nurseries is extremely helpful. They must have a knowledge of flowers and plants. In some instances even the giftware part of a retail shop. One of the girls I work with started hanging around her mom’s shop in Jr. High, and worked there during high school and college. Then she went to a floral design scho... Careers: Florist Essay -- essays research papers I chose floral design for my career. A florist does a variety of things in a retail flower shop. The main thing is arranging flowers. They prepare bouquets, corsages, funeral pieces, dried floral arrangements, and decorations for weddings, parties, and events. Depending on how much the owner asks of them, some florists are in charge of ordering flowers, ribbon, giftware, and other hard goods. Some also do the bookkeeping. I Chose this career because when I was little I used to go to Garden Gazebo and my Aunt Linda would give me scrap flowers to play with. Then when my grandma bought it I would come up during the summer and watch the girls work. A year and a half ago I started working there. When I started it was just bookkeeping, but I spent a lot of the summer learning design. It’s fun working at the flower shop, that’s the main reason I chose this career. Also, I already know a lot about the business between working in the office and out in the store.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There isn’t much schooling needed for this job. An eye for color, design, and depth are most important. Most florists learn on the job. Working part time and summer jobs in flower shops and nurseries is extremely helpful. They must have a knowledge of flowers and plants. In some instances even the giftware part of a retail shop. One of the girls I work with started hanging around her mom’s shop in Jr. High, and worked there during high school and college. Then she went to a floral design scho...

Frederick Douglass Influence on the Anti-Slavery Movement Essay

Frederick Douglass' Influence on the Anti-Slavery Movement Frederick Douglass was one of the most influential men of the anti-slavery movement. He stood up for what he believed in, fought hard to get where he got and never let someone tell him he could not do something. Frederick Douglass made a change in this country that will always be remembered. Born Frederick Baily, Frederick Douglass was a slave, his birthday is not pin pointed but known to be in February of 1818. He was born on Holmes Hill Farm, near the town of Easton, Maryland. Harriet Baily was Frederick's mother. She worked the cornfields surrounding Holmes Hill. As a boy, he knew little of his father except that the man was white. As a child, he had heard rumors that the master, Aaron Anthony was his father. Frederick's mother was required to work long hours in the fields, so he lived with his grandmother, Betsey Baily. Betsy Baily lived in a cabin a short distance from Holmes Hill Farm. Her job was to look after Harriet's children until they were old enough to work. "Frederick's mother visited him when she could, but he had only a hazy memory of her." He did not think he was a slave during the years with his grandmother. When Frederick was six he was put to work on the Lloyd Plantation. This was the last he saw of his grandmother as he realized that he was now a slave. He learned that the master, Aaron Anthony, would beat his slaves if they did not obey order. Luckily for Frederick he was picked to be Daniel Lloyd's friend, the youngest son of the plantation's owner. Frederick also found a friend in Lucretia Auld, the master's daughter. One day in 1826 Lucretia told Frederick that he was being sent to live with her brother-in-law, Hugh Auld, who managed a ship building company in Baltimore. When Frederick got to the Auld home his only duties were to run errands and care for the Auld's infant son, Tommy. Frederick liked the work and grew to love the child. Sophia Auld was the master's wife, she often read the bible to her son and Frederick. She started to teach Frederick to read and write but soon after the master learned of this and forbid it. Frederick only learned the abhalbit and some words. So he learned the rest by himself. Soon Frederick bought a local paper and learned about abolitionist. This changed his views on many things but was soon sent back to work on a plan... ...ass was given the ceremonial position of marshal for Washington, DC. He enjoyed this post that had a large staff responsible for the overseeing the criminal justice system in Washington D.C. As he got older Douglass settled down doing fewer speeches each year and concentrated on being Marshall. This was until he was appointed to the post of recorder of deeds for Washington, D.C., after the election of 1880. He held the job for 5 years over seeing the department that made records of property sales for the capital. This job left him time to write. He was with his wife until she died in August of 1882. He married again in 1884 to Helen Pitts who was 20 years younger than him. They remained together for 9 years, that was until his sudden death of a heart attack on February 20, 1895. He was 77. Frederick Douglass was laid to rest in Rochester, New York. All of the black public schools closed for the day that he died. Frederick Douglass was a man that touched the hearts of millions and spoke out when no one else would. He fought for the freedom of the black man and stride for the basic human rights they deserved. Frederick Douglass was truly a great man who cried out for freedom.

Does technology ensure progress? Essay

In this essay I will argue that technology does not ensure progress. The first main concept that needs to be clarified is ‘technology’. This paper acknowledges the concept ‘technology’ as being the application of science, especially to industrial or commercial objectives. The other key concept ‘progress’ in this essay is defined as a steady improvement, as a society or civilization. I am arguing that the concept of technology does not ensure the concept of progress because there are certain technologies that have hurt society in various ways. Furthermore, not all technologies ensure progress. Scientists have created various technologies for various reasons. It is evident that not all of these technologies are for the steady improvement of a society or civilization, but rather for personal gain. If a certain technology was invented to give a farmer a greater yield of crop, but this particular technology leads to the death of an ecosystem, then it is not progress in the sense it brings steady improvement to a society or civilization because it destroys the delicate balance of life and its biodiversity. The loss of biodiversity will hurt civilization in the long run because the foundations of life depend on it. Some people may think that certain technologies are the correct path for humanity, but certain technologies can manifest into things that people do not expect and hurt society by doing so. For instance, if scientists could predict that aliens would take over the earth if they invented a spaceship that could reach them, even though the scientists had not planned on finding earth invaders; surely they would have thought otherwise. This is an extreme example that has obviously not happened, but the birth of atomic energy is an example of technology that’s intended purpose of giving houses and industries power manifested itself into a bomb for the military. Some may argue that the atomic bomb ensured progress for the American’s and allied forces, yet surely the Japanese society where the bomb was dropped during the Second World War did not find progress with this technology because it killed many innocent people and destroyed infrastructure. Certain technologies are seriously destroying the natural world. This  ultimately does not lead to the improvement of a civilization, but rather is causing it harm. If technology keeps generating harmful gases and toxic chemicals which poisons the earth, then it is of no good to civilization because humans need to earth to survive. Some readers might object to me answering that â€Å"technology does not ensure progress†. Perhaps they believe if it wasn’t for technology humans may never have succeeded in being a dominant figure on earth and we would never have evolved enough to even ask the question in the first place. There are animals that are stronger, bigger, and faster then humans and external elements that can kill humans at ease, so by humans using technology to build defensive mechanisms or shelter for warmth it has ensured human survival in a world that can be unforgiving by natural things. If my concept of technology remained the same (the application of science, especially industrial or commercial), but the concept of progress changed to (development or growth) then one could answer ‘yes’ to the question; â€Å"does technology ensure progress†. This is evident in the manufacturing sector of our society where technology has enabled humans to build factories and warehouses to ensure development and growth of economics. The same could be said by keeping the concept of technology constant, but changing the definition of progress to (movement, as towards a goal). Scientist’s movement to create technology can be motivated by achieving goals. For instance, a certain product has to be on the market by a specific due date, otherwise the project will be terminated, so by scientists using technology and ensuring they get the job done they have moved forward and reached a goal. It is apparent that there are particular technologies that can help humans build a better society by keeping us warm and ensuring food to survive. However, certain technologies have manifested through the evolution of man that have unquestionably uninsured the progress of humans because it has brought harm to civilization through destruction and death. Perhaps scientists and the general public need to think long and hard about inventing certain technologies. This is all the more difficult because nobody can predict the future and certain technologies might seem like a  great idea at the time, but turn out to be a serious danger to all life on earth. This paper by no means is an indicator of which technologies are good for the betterment of society, but hopefully it will open the dialog between people to ask the question; which technology is ensuring progress?

The Academic Standards of Schools Today

College or technical schools are supposed to be the gateway to higher paying careers, but most are not all that they are cracked up to be. The standards and goals that society wants met are continually not being met by the students today. Also, many higher learning facilities lack the funds to provide positive learning environments for students. For these reasons and many more are keeping the students of today from benefiting fully from schools. Society today has to make some new choices for the students of tomorrow, choices that will carry them into the next millennium. Society can either â€Å"lower standards so that everybody â€Å"passes† in a way that looses all meaning in the real world† or † raise standards and then meet them† (Barber 479). I personally believe in raising our expectations and doing whatever is needed to meet them. Our countries standards are among the lowest in the world and † at the same moment as we are transferring our responsibilities to the shoulders of the next generation, we are blaming them for our own generation†s most conspicuous failures† (Barber 472). Every election year the candidates use something about education as one of their platforms, but few ever carry through with them once they are elected. Most education bills die in congress in some shape or another and the ones that actually make it through congress, are usually ineffective because they have been changed and modified to the point of ineffectiveness. Also, many of the learning facilities today lack the funding to provide adequate, positive learning environments for students. Underpaid teachers and professors who † make less than accountants architects, doctors, lawyers, engineers, judges, health professionals, auidiors, and surveyors† and thus many student disregard teachers as role models. If people see someone who can score touchdowns or dunk a basketball making millions while their teachers are scraping bottom to survive, then how can an educator possibly motivate them to learn (Barber 470). Many people chase after their â€Å"dreams† of money instead of seeing the reality of learning. Although society today rates an education as one of their top priorities, they still allow learning facilities to become broken and run down. Like animals, children and adults file into buildings with bad floors, horrible plumbing, leaky roofs and ceilings, and pack into desk, usually 35+ per educator. Today the government spends $35,000 a year to keep someone behind bars and only a fraction of that to keep them in school (Barber 475). Tuition, room, and board at most colleges now come to at least $7,000, not counting books and fees. This might seem to suggest that the colleges are getting rich. But they are equally battered by inflation. Tuition covers only 60 percent of what it cost to educate a student, and ordinarily the remainder comes from what colleges receive in endowments, grants, and gifts† (Bird 498). Its about time we started to provide more money. Funding more for education wont solve every problem but no problem can even begin to be solved without it. The so-called higher learning facilities of today are selling students short when it comes to their education. Properly funding the education system and setting new standards for the future is an important part of education reform. Education reform for the US is a vital part of insuring the future for students and bringing them up to the standards set by other countries. The Academic Standards of Schools Today College or technical schools are supposed to be the gateway to higher paying careers, but most are not all that they are cracked up to be. The standards and goals that society wants met are continually not being met by the students today. Also, many higher learning facilities lack the funds to provide positive learning environments for students. For these reasons and many more are keeping the students of today from benefiting fully from schools. Society today has to make some new choices for the students of tomorrow, choices that will carry them into the next millennium. Society can either â€Å"lower standards so that everybody â€Å"passes† in a way that looses all meaning in the real world† or † raise standards and then meet them† (Barber 479). I personally believe in raising our expectations and doing whatever is needed to meet them. Our countries standards are among the lowest in the world and † at the same moment as we are transferring our responsibilities to the shoulders of the next generation, we are blaming them for our own generation†s most conspicuous failures† (Barber 472). Every election year the candidates use something about education as one of their platforms, but few ever carry through with them once they are elected. Most education bills die in congress in some shape or another and the ones that actually make it through congress, are usually ineffective because they have been changed and modified to the point of ineffectiveness. Also, many of the learning facilities today lack the funding to provide adequate, positive learning environments for students. Underpaid teachers and professors who † make less than accountants architects, doctors, lawyers, engineers, judges, health professionals, auidiors, and surveyors† and thus many student disregard teachers as role models. If people see someone who can score touchdowns or dunk a basketball making millions while their teachers are scraping bottom to survive, then how can an educator possibly motivate them to learn (Barber 470). Many people chase after their â€Å"dreams† of money instead of seeing the reality of learning. Although society today rates an education as one of their top priorities, they still allow learning facilities to become broken and run down. Like animals, children and adults file into buildings with bad floors, horrible plumbing, leaky roofs and ceilings, and pack into desk, usually 35+ per educator. Today the government spends $35,000 a year to keep someone behind bars and only a fraction of that to keep them in school (Barber 475). Tuition, room, and board at most colleges now come to at least $7,000, not counting books and fees. This might seem to suggest that the colleges are getting rich. But they are equally battered by inflation. Tuition covers only 60 percent of what it cost to educate a student, and ordinarily the remainder comes from what colleges receive in endowments, grants, and gifts† (Bird 498). Its about time we started to provide more money. Funding more for education wont solve every problem but no problem can even begin to be solved without it. The so-called higher learning facilities of today are selling students short when it comes to their education. Properly funding the education system and setting new standards for the future is an important part of education reform. Education reform for the US is a vital part of insuring the future for students and bringing them up to the standards set by other countries.