The man in the high castle

The excerpt is based on   Tagomi, who is portrayed as a protagonist that stands up to the Nazis. He also acts as a cover when Baynes-Wegener and Yatabe-Tedeki meet. Another character in this excerpt is German consul based in San Francisco, Hugo Reiss. Frank Frink is the last character upon which the excerpt heavily relies on. Frank Frink is a jewelry maker and is secretly a Jew. The Nazis detest the Jews, and this could be dangerous for him when the Nazis win the war (Dick, Philip p 96).

In the book; Frank Frink and Tagomi never meet, but they are connected with this extradition incident. The connection is not either's making. The relationship between Frank and Tagomi is based on a response to a situation they are both in. When Tagomi goes to Childan's shop to return a gun he used to shoot one of Reiss's men, Childan offers him jewelry which he accepts, not knowing that it was made by Frank Frink and later carries the pieces of silver to a park. When he returns to work, it is then that the incident in the excerpt occurs. Tagomi refuses to grant Hugo Reiss the permission to extradite frank frink to Germany. Instead, he does the opposite and releases Frank Frink (Dick, Philip p 229)

One of the main arguments against Tagomi's decision is that Frank Frink was entertaining the thought of a young resistance movement that would have caused a lot of unrest and violence in Japan. Though he did not carry out his mission, this goes to prove beyond doubt that frank frink is not a straightforward person and is capable of being a killer if he decides to. Frank also sells counterfeit jewelry to Childan who later sells them to customers who are not aware. This goes further to expose the deceitful character of frank frink. Therefore, Tagomi would have signed the extradition papers (Dick, Philip p 96).

The motive to arrest Frank Frink seems suspicious as it comes days after frank threaten to exposes Childan for selling counterfeit antiques. When Frank Frink goes to buy a cigarette, he is confronted by two officers who arrest him and threat to deport him to the Germans because he was a Jew. It is fifteen years after the Second World War and Nazis are still killing as many Jews as they can find. The second attempt to arrest frank is through Tagomi which also fails. This shows that the arrests are personal and are not legal therefore making the second argument against the arrest (Dick, Philip p 53).

Tagomi slips into a timeline where the Nazis do not control the world. This is after he kills German men who came to attack Baynes. The killings affect him, and pushes him to imagine of a different world. He is sad and depressed. When he comes back to reality, he realizes the impossibility of the imagination and becomes suicidal. This incident may be used to form an argument against the decision to release Frank frink. First of all, he is emotionally unstable, and unsure of what he is doing (Dick, Philip p 217).

Tagomi could have co-operated with Reiss by signing the papers that would see the extradition of frank Frink because as Germany was more potent than Japan based on the novel. Germany is portrayed as being more developed than Japan when it comes to technology; the Germans have a spaceship which would take a lifetime before japan develops theirs. For the sake of maintaining peace of the Japanese, it would be wise to sign papers that would allow for the extradition of (Frank Dick, Philip p 229)

One of the themes that clearly comes out of the novel is prejudice. The Jews are not only prejudiced but are seen as the property of the Nazis. They are killed and even maimed. To avoid any bloodshed Tagomi saw to it that he released Frank Frink from prison as he had not done anything wrong other than being a Jew. By refusing to cooperate, Tagomi stood up to the fascist regime of the Nazis and showed heroism. The Nazis were known for their strict stance and their cold-blooded killings which cost a lot of people's lives. Tagomi releasing Frank Frink somehow proves that he believed what he saw in the parallel timeline where the Axis powers did not win the war. This makes him value the jewelry he received from childan. Another reason that may have caused   Tagumi to avoid extraditing frank frink is to show that Japan has powers and will not obey every demand of the Nazis. The meeting between Tagomi and Baynes must have made Tagomi realize that Nazis are evil people and this may have led to him, not extradition. Hears childan is eager to please his Japanese guests, Tagomi is also keen to please Bayne. Through this, we can see and who is trying to gain self-control and power resisting orders of Reiss (Dick, Philip p 220).

Tagomi may have acted bravely by standing up to the Nazis, but it came at a great cost as he nearly lost his life through a heart attack and he created a friction between the japan government and the Germans. The tension created can destabilize peace and create chaos. Therefore, in the long run if he would extradited.

References

Dick, Philip K. The Man in the High Castle. Boston: Mariner Books, 2011.

Definition Argument-Brave

Introduction

To most, super-heroism is the first thing that comes to mind when the term brave is mentioned. Bravery is described as the quality of demonstrating cognitive and moral power to face fear, danger, and difficulty (Snyder and Shane 6). On the other hand, the adjective brave is utilized to describe any individual or thing that demonstrates courage when faced with difficult situations. A brave person is the one that is willing to perform things which are considered to be particularly dangerous and does not display any kind of fear in dangerous or challenging situations (Biakolo 1). On the other hand, based on the English Dictionary brave is the readiness to face and endure danger or pain which equals to showing courage (Snyder and Shane 6). With respect to this definition, it is apparent that there are two portions of the existence of brave which is the capacity to bear and courage and both qualities have to be present for someone to be considered brave. Bravery is the capability to confront pain, danger or attempt intimidations without any sense of fear which comprises of courage but differs from it.

Undoubtedly, brave is defined differently in every language but there is just one actual meaning. Brave refers to the showing of courage when hard times occur. Being brave does not only entail what individuals do but how they do things. Bravery is the combination of courage, fearlessness, and splendor based on Webster definition (Biakolo 1). In other words, bravery is when an individual displays courage when subjected to challenges and only opts to do the moral thing and overcomes fear in the quest of doing right. To others, bravery is the act of doing right to other people even though it requires putting your individual life in harm or be exposed to certain losses (Snyder and Shane 8). This is the act of putting others first and choosing not to be selfish. Bravery is also a spiritual quality that permits one to face danger without demonstrating any form of fear but the most misconceived idea by most individuals is that being brave is completely acting with no fear (Biakolo 1). Brave, however, does not imply the adversity of the situation is not feared but it is that brave entails the will to overcome any kind of fear that might arise.

Bravery is further defined as a behavioral characteristic that enables individuals to overcome their reserves, inner doubts and provides the strength what is considered as right regardless of any type of repercussion (Rondina 12). It is a thing that is from the inside in regard to self-courage that permits individuals to overcome hurdles and achieve things that are believed to be impossible (Boyd 1). Bravery can either be physical, moral or psychological but all involve doing things that regardless of the potential damages that can follow which might be against one’s beliefs but it is the right thing. Further bravery is best described as the capability to oppose pain, hazard and trials of intimidations without any sensation of fear (Rondina 12). This is the character strength that permits an individual to be apparently larger at all times that the existing crisis, whether he is indeed more authoritative or lighter than what is being faced.

In my opinion what is perceived to be the limit with some of the definitions of brave is that they incorporate courage as the primary aspect (Boyd 1). Courage and bravery are used as synonyms but they are particularly different in meaning (Snyder and Shane 8). Most of the definitions hold that brave is the aptitude to challenge pain and intimidation without any form of fear. This makes it apparent that brave and courage are different. In that courage is the capability to undertake an overwhelming challenging regardless of the presence of the inescapable fear. More than just a quality this is the mental state that is influenced by a reason that makes the fights to be worth. This differs with the case of bravery an individual that is driven by courage might sense unavoidably small in the face of the problems (Rondina 12). The essence of courage is not the general sensation of the capability to overcome challenges but it is the willful option to fight regardless of the limits and outcomes. Brave is a quality that encompasses courage but acts on its own (Biakolo 1). Courage is just a means and brave drives it as it acts solemnly. Bravery is not even being driven by any kind of inspiration or cause. In that, while it can sustain its very spirit without a cause and courage is usually engrossed by bravery.

An additional customized component that is utilized in defining bravery is the aspect of absenteeism or presence of mindfulness (Rondina 12). The act of bravery does not compulsory necessitate critical judgment and most of the time the quality normally becomes inherent based on family and societal principles and thus, effortlessly establishes itself as a seconding nature. A brave individual is bound can move forward and accomplish a given thing without placing many thoughts into the aspect based on the reasons and outcomes of their conduct (Biakolo 1). In that being brave is the ability to move forward and act based on the rightful and acceptable thing without considering a thing but only directed by creating the most positive outcomes. This differs from courage which is the result of deep understanding of the present issues (Boyd 1). A courageous individual is one that truly comprehends what they are getting involved in and all that they are doing and the anticipated results of such serving (Boyd 1). For example, a courageous individual understands all that they are bound to lose when they decide to act for the wellness of others but despite all, they decide to go on based on the need to save others.

Lastly, I support that bravery is the capability to act without the existence of fear and it maintains its essence even without any reason. It is not an outcome of mindfulness and it is the decision that opts to fight for what is believed to be right without considering any fear. Bravery is considered to be an inherent quality which does not incorporate many thoughts and normally manifests itself as a quality of nature to the brave ones (Biakolo 1). Based on the above definitions courage cannot occur without the presence of courage but being brave does not mean that fear is not considered but the aspect of bravery overcomes all. Bravery is thus, the potential to confront discomfort, hazard, and trials of intimidations without any sensation of fear (Biakolo 1).

Conclusion

Bravery is the capability to confront pain, danger or attempt intimidations without any sense of fear which comprises of courage but differs from it. This definition as supported in this report is a useful one because it creates a distinction amid courage and bravery but also shows that being brave incorporates the quality of courage which is the willingness to act regardless of the identified damages that might follow. This is the act of putting morality first rather than being self-centered. Bravery is the one that is willing to perform things which are considered to be particularly dangerous and does not display any kind of fear in dangerous or challenging situations. Bravery is the combination of courage, fearlessness, and splendor.

Work Cited

Biakolo, Kovie. What It Really Means To Be Brave. 2015. Retrieved from https://thoughtcatalog.com/kovie-biakolo/2015/12/what-it-really-means-to-be-brave/

Boyd, Therese. The meaning of courage. 2016. Retrieved from https://phys.org/news/2016-06-courage.html

Rondina, Caesar. Who Are the Heroes? Dorrance Publishing, 2017. Print.

Snyder, C R, and Shane J. Lopez. Oxford Handbook of Positive Psychology. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2009. Print.

Salem's Lot (Stephen king)

People live in a world full of reality and evil, and everyone has freedom to make deliberate choices to confront the evil and inner weaknesses. People in Salem’s Lot city have choices between evil and good but only few resists the evil.  For example, the protagonist (Mark Petrie) and a group of vampire hunters decide to take action (King, 93).These people have the moral courage to resist the evil and stand firm to their moral conscience while ignoring the Barlow’s actions. In the novel, the strength of the thesis is reinforced by the characters who act in a supernatural situation that forces them to make choices between good and evil. The author is able to test the characters and understand the human condition by employing the vampiric threat.  In order to see how the characters set the plot, it is important to note that Salem’s Lot is an isolated city and a breeding-ground for evil (King, 4).The characters play an important role in developing the popular themes in modern societies. The Salem’s lot town is destroyed by a vampire who transforms all people in the town until they becomes undead.  Even at the point of killing the head vampire, the town is still controlled by the vampires left behind.   Community members go missing without any physical prove and this makes the town’s people to become flustered. The novel depicts the Salem’s lot as a town full of darkness and how characters perform dark secrets such as child abuse, murder, and adultery among many. Note that the characters in the novel allow the reader see the setting and how vampire emerges in the town.  In the community, the main vampire (Barlow) brings evil to the town though there were comfy horrors in the Salem’s lot (King, 25).

       In the novel, the reader is introduced to a horror genre and how characters or human beings are able to achieve self-actualization by making personal decisions in dealing with the horror. From the theme, the reality from the novel is that human being can face oppression in a subjugated culture and courage and inner strength to overcome the unconquerable vampire. Note that   characters such as Ben Mears and Father Callahan are interested in building a liberated future by fighting with the systematic injustice in the town (King, 59). The novel tends to show that the characters aim to create a community of solidarity and eliminate the dark oppression. In other words, they stand firm with their decision between good and evil, and they employ cohesive strategies to ensure that community members live in a community of faith. The town is full of darkness as it “… care’s for devil’s work … It knew darkness. And darkness was enough” (King, 176). For this reason, they foresee a transformative future characterize by liberation from vampiric oppression. In addition, the novel has revealed that   human beings as well as societies have a role in choosing between the evil and the good. Note that in modern America culture, vampires have been transformed to address culture things which relate with gender and sexuality, spirituality and more. Generally, horror in the community allows individuals to examine the deepest intuitive in choosing between right and wrong. For example, Mark’s parents are morally instructive and urge Mark to explore the world and the existence of evil and this makes him identify between the rights and wrong (King, 69).

Work cited

King Stephen. Salem’s Lot. 1975

“Hope’s Boy”

1. Relatives (grandmother) play a significant role in providing temporary care. Thus, Federal financing should offer support to guardians and allow them to pay their children a visit. When relatives visit children in foster care, the children reduce trauma and develops a sense of belonging. With regard to the question, kinship care could be offered through an informal arrangement. In foster care (MacLaren Hall), Andrew was abused physically and mentally which rooted from isolation, poverty and poor treatment by social welfare agencies. In the MacLaren, Andy faced institutionalized brutality as he lived with dishonest adults (Bridge, 2008).Given the hardships and suffering he met in life, county officials should have offered Andy’s grandmother financial support, phone calls and travel expenses. First, it is important to note that Andy lived in unfriendly condition where he was abused by foster parents for 11 years. Before being taken in foster care, he lived with his grandmother who had financial problems. The grandmother could not be in a position to provide material advantages to Andy while he was in foster care and this stressed her as she was unable to fight for his custody.  At this point, county officers should have offered the grandmother a legal custody. This means that she could have been given opportunity to visit Andrew.  Andy was at a risk of maltreatment since his real parents had divorced and her mother was mentally ill. At this point, his grandmother was the only person who could care for him, but financial problems hindered her.  It was the role of county officials to offer financial support (Bridge, 2008).   In this case, the officers should have strengthened her capacity to look after the boy and this was a way of strengthening foster care and family support. It is important to consider the role of birth parents or family members as the key element in promoting child development and satisfying the child’s wishes.  Other reason as to why the officers should have offered the grandmother phone calls and financial support for travel expense is that the child in foster has the right to meet his or her parents and this minimizes depression and maximizes child development (Krug & Światowa, 2002). In addition, I support the need for financial support since visitation promotes the well-being, strengthens a healthy attachment and prevents the feeling of abandonment. Visitation also strengthens reunification and a child will get a valuable experience. During visitation, birth parents or the grandmother in this case would gain parenting skills from educational programme when the child returns home.

2. Bridge was 7 years old when he was taken to foster family. Here, he was under the care of an Estonian woman who showed abusive behaviors to the child.  He faced challenges until he reached 17 years and got the opportunity to meet his real mother (Bridge, 2008).  An important point to note is that the trauma which the foster mother experienced while she was in jail     triggered the abusive behaviors. As a girl child, the foster parent was abused psychologically and emotionally and the harm created low self-esteem, mental problem and vulnerability to antisocial behaviors (Krug & Światowa, 2002).  This woman was a neglectful parent with disrupted social relationship. She could not be in a position to provide social support and quality care since she had not yet recovered from early trauma.  The trauma she experienced contributed to irrational, annoyance and she became less supportive and responsive. In other words, her behaviors are understandable given that she also experienced   abuse and isolation while she was imprisoned.   For example, young children especially girls who are incarcerated experience physical and sexual abuse, emotional harm, and more (Krug & Światowa, 2002).  The maltreatment is understandable as a response to stress. In addition, the foster mother lacks a positive role model as she also experienced abuse when she was young.  Note that the mother   lack unrealistic expectations necessary skills for child development and this is the main contributing factor (Krug & Światowa, 2002).

 The only way that the social workers could have done to discover the behaviors of the foster parents is through a psychological valuation. Note that this could have been done before deciding to take the child to her.  In other words, the  social worker could have developed a foster care system where a psychological evaluation is done to foster parents to assess things related with criminal background check, behavior patterns, and feelings more (Krug & Światowa, 2002). A psychological evaluation is done for child protection and the evaluation is helpful as the social worker will know whether the parent will be in a position to meet physical and emotional need.  Evaluation will also assess mental health and in this case, social workers could have done a psychological evaluation to discover the post-traumatic stress disorder (Krug & Światowa, 2002).  Note that exposure to trauma at an early age triggers antisocial behaviors in adulthood. Generally, the foster parent’s behaviors were response to trauma and she presented them through aggression.  Social works could have conducted   a psychological evaluation to discover this behavior.   

 Given that the foster parents shown a response to trauma, it would be better to remove Andrew from the foster parent’s care.  It would be better if the child could get care from a foster parent whose life background is evaluated and aligns with the ability to meet physical and emotional need (Krug & Światowa, 2002).  Rather than allowing parents who had experienced trauma in jail to care for children, they should find parents who have the willingness to offer quality care. More important, foster parents should have knowledge and skills on child development. In addition, the child could be taken to parent who has quality training and who has gone through care programs (Krug & Światowa, 2002).

3. I agree with Andrew’s statement that parent- child relationship or else the parent love is important in life. Even though foster care provides children with discipline and nurturing to families that face challenges when it comes to parenting, parental love should be considered (Bridge, 2008). Among the infinity number of virtues, I believe that a child needs acceptance, parental caring, compassion and considerations are important in child’s life as they promote joy and sense of belonging. In considering the welfare of the children and morally perceptions, children should enjoy their ‘child right’ and ‘derivative right’ (The Pew Charitable Trust, 2007). The point is that children suffer from depression, mental problems, develop behavioral problems and trauma   while in foster care.  Thus, parental love and affection must be valued for the well-being of the child.  Parental love will prevent mental harm and psychological abuse, and improve the overall well-being. However, the foster care system needs to be reformed in order to promote the well-being of the children. This should be done by establishing visitation plan where a child should meet with parents and siblings (The Pew Charitable Trust, 2007).  In addition, primary relationship should be strengthened through parent-child relationship. There should be family ties and long-term commitment to reduce trauma and create a sense of attachment.  Finally, there should be a subsidized guardianship- there should be a legal responsibility which focus on providing relatives with resources to care for the children. Note that children will be in a safe and stable condition while with relatives. Relative caregivers should be provided with right of care rather than taking the children to foster care (The Pew Charitable Trust, 2007).

Reference

Bridge, A. (2008). Hope's boy. New York: Hyperion.

Krug, E. G., & Światowa Organizacja Zdrowia. (2002). World report on violence and health. Geneva:

World Health Organization.

The Pew Charitable Trust. (2007). Time For Reform. SUPPORT RELATIVES IN PROVIDING FOSTER CARE

AND PERMANENT FAMILIES FOR CHILDREN.  Retrieved from: http://www.pewtrusts.org/~/media/legacy/uploadedfiles/wwwpewtrustsorg/reports/foster_care_reform/supportingrelativespdf.pdf

My Brooklyn

Gentrification is one of the important issues discussed in the movie ‘My Brooklyn’.  The movie describes how gentrification is reshaping the social, cultural and economic status of the neighborhood. Although gentrification has benefits such as employment and reduced crime rate, this is not enough to permit displacement of people who cannot afford only low income and middle class housing .This paper will explain the major issues that arise from the documentary, ‘My Brooklyn’.

 Gentrification may contain some great benefits but based on the information from the film it is a bad thing. First and for most, the change caused by gentrification has made small business owners to lose their businesses. Small business owners were displaced from the Fulton mall as the lease increased which they could barely afford .Secondly, the demolitions which were made to give room for the new improvement displaced the old residents. Gentrification snatched away the attachment and closeness that was created by these small business people. The city officials and the developers claim that change is good yet they replace neighborhoods that were built by black ‘brooklynites’ and whose way of life has influenced and shaped the rest of America. Thus, they  ignore the needs of the less privileged by tearing down existing black neighborhoods and replacing them with new urban areas which  mostly consist of whites as if to imply it is only  through gentrification that development can come to existence. Therefore, gentrification shapes the neighborhood in terms of class and race. It also erases the race diversity, social, cultural and the original urban fabric of the society (Brooklyn, 2017).

  Rebuilding old urban areas into wealthy suburbs that can only be afforded by the rich and not the low and middle income earners, does not completely solve the problem that it was supposed to be solve in the first place, which is provide proper housing. Colored communities are more likely to be displaced as the new urban buildings attract new specialties, high skilled labor, and large enterprises hence their value rise quickly attracting property buyers and tenants who can afford their value. Typically, the less one earns the more vulnerable they are to be displaced from their areas by the wealthy, who are financially stable. Therefore, if the change brought out by gentrification results to high cost of rent and an environment that cannot harbor cheap expenditure, old residents  are forced to vacate .The poor and financial unstable are  losers when it comes to gentrification as they struggle with financial instability and are more vulnerable to change. Single parents, the elderly and the disabled are other vulnerable groups. Gentrification normally increase the property rates of abandoned neighborhoods which harbor crime gangs. They are renovated and occupied hence reducing the crime rate which goes to benefit both the new occupants and the old ones. The new developments can also benefit the previous residents through employment opportunities which open up due to an increase in   new businesses (Brooklyn, 2017).

 Gentrification should not destroy previously existing social and cultural norms and should work on maintaining them. Gentrification should find a way of making different social background mix rather than widening the gap. This can be done by ensuring that their renovation has room for low income earners as well the new residents. Gentrification should also aim at maintaining low middle class and not replacing them with a high middle class who latter are replaced by upper middle class. Gentrification should aim at bringing a balance to the society .The main consequence of  gentrification is that it  leads to the displacement of middle upper class leaving a large number of people with no place to go. Gentrification should therefore strike a balance between   different social and economic classes and make them co-exist together. Tearing down the social network and diversity of the neighborhood should not be caused by gentrification but gentrification should serve as bridge between different societies. People of color are likely to be looked down upon ad criminalized by the new occupants who see them as a threat to their safety. Latinos and blacks are more likely to be arrested compared to their white counter parts who are caught doing the same crime. This brings about racial discrimination and hatred thus dividing the community (Brooklyn, 2017).

One of the main ways gentrification can be mitigated or prevented altogether is by building enough middle income housing enough to prevent the displacement of people. The low income housing should also be considered and built but not in large numbers than middle income housing. Reducing property tax can help in maintain long term home owners of Brooklyn. Lastly home owners who are able to sell their houses can be encouraged so as to give property developers a chance to renovate the vacated areas. Mix income development projects should be planned and encouraged. Mixed income development will see it through that everyone coexists in the neighborhood. Developers should give priority to long term home owners at risk of losing their housing due to gentrification. This will enable them to stabilize and avoid displacement from their communities. Changing the rules to favor colored communities which are at risk of displacement will favor the communities to receive more federal resources from the local government (Freudenheim, 2016)

REFERENCES 

Brooklyn, M. (2017). The Film » My Brooklyn - a documentary film by Kelly Anderson and Allison Irish Dean « My Brooklyn - a documentary film by Kelly Anderson and Allison Irish Dean. [Online] My Brooklyn – a documentary film by Kelly Anderson and Allison Irish Dean. Available at: http://www.mybrooklynmovie.com/

Freudenheim, E. (2016). The Brooklyn experience: The ultimate guide to neighborhoods & noshes, culture & the cutting edge.

Monomyth or Hero’s Journey

Introduction

A monomyth or a hero’s journey is a typical story which basically involves a hero who goes on an adventure, and ends up coming back victorious. In a bid to understand the meaning of a monomyth, this paper will explain the meaning of monomyth in depth, before analysing Lauren’s story of the parable of the sower, thus being able to understand if it perfectly fits in this category.

According to John Campbell, a hero’s journey is a specific arrangement of narrative, which either appears in a myth, religious, storytelling, and psychological development. It consequently describes the natural adventure of the hero, thus distinguishing him or her from the rest of the people in the story (Craig, n.p). The hero becomes superior from the rest, thus being able to achieve great endeavours on behalf of the whole group or the community. It consequently follows 12 stages, which are responsible for explaining the course of events in the story. However, this paper will only dwell on the first six steps of a hero’s journey (Joshy n.p).

1. The normal world. In this world, the hero feels uneasy, and is basically introduced compassionately, for the audience to identify with the dilemma in the situation. The hero is consequently shown against an environment which makes his or her life unbearable.
2. Adventure call. Somethings change, thus preparing the hero for new or hard situations to come.
3. Refusal of the call. Due to the feeling of fear, the hero may want to turn away from the adventure, but a different character may explain the significant of the adventure (Joshy n.p).
4. Meeting the mentor. The hero either meets the mentor, or reads about the mentor in a story, thus enabling him or her to be able to gain an understanding of how to deal with the situation.
5. Crossing the inception. The hero then changes his or her way of life, in order to do things according to the dictates of the mentor.
6. Tests, friends and enemies. The hero passes through a lot of persecution, which is significant for testing him or her, a factor which makes the hero to understand who he or she is supposed to stand with (Craig, n.p).

           The parable of the sower is indeed a hero’s journey, and this is evident through the way the story progresses. In Lauren’s story, Lauren is the hero, and everything which she does tends to affect the wellbeing of the community. Raised up in California Robledo and as a daughter of a reverend, she does not believe on her father’s religious God (Butler, 21). This consequently explains why she believes things should be done differently, since she believes her father does not want people to open their eyes and see the impending danger. The constant belief of hope does not seem to be what she believes, something which makes it hard for her to follow the dictates of her father’s religion and God (Gale, 36).

The feeling of change, and not believing in the teachings of her dad, makes Lauren who is also the hero to fall under the normal world. In the normal world, Lauren feels uneasy, due to the way things are handled by both the community and the people in general (Butler, 24). This is a factor which makes her to opt for a different life, in what she believes is being fruitful and doing things differently in order to achieve more in a world where people believe that things will change with time. The feeling of uncertainty makes her to long for change, since she totally disagrees with what her dad says, because she believes that God is a God of change, and people should constantly change, in order to live a life which God wants them to.

Adventure call comes in after his father disappears from the community, a factor which makes Lauren to look for ways of locating his father (Butler, 30). This situation consequently characterizes adventure call, in the sense that something which requires the attention of Lauren comes in, making her to look for ways through which she can be able to locate her father. In addition, it is not easy for Lauren to live a life whereby she does not understand the whereabouts of her father. This situation prepares her for the adventure which she is supposed to undertake after her hometown is destroyed. At this point, she is forced to form a community, in order to continue with her life without any problems at all. This leads to hooking up with Bankole who was an old man, and they ended up becoming lovers. The hard situation in this sense is whether to keep on looking for her father, or to focus on the community. She later realizes that the community is much more important, since it is responsible for her survival (Gale, 39).

In chapter 2, despite not believing in her dad’s God and teachings, Lauren goes ahead to and gets baptised. In this chapter, she does not offer any form of resistance to the religion, due to the fear which she has concerning what she is supposed to do (Butler, 35). She does not therefore show any signs of wanting to move out of the town, because of the fear within her. This chapter consequently symbolizes the refusal of the call, since it reaches a point where it is clearly evident that Lauren does not want to undertake the adventure. It seems she has accepted her life the way it is, and she is not in any way going to do undertake the adventure, due to the fear which she has, a factor which makes it hard for her to be able to make a move at this point in the story (Gale, 41).

In chapter 11, she sets her mind to do what she actually wants to do, and this is to undertake the adventure through heading north. The destruction of Robledo acts as a wakeup call, making her to move north, in such of a good life and change. Bankole acts as Lauren’s mentor, since she decides to instead stay with him, rather than looking for his father (Butler, 42). Bankole makes Lauren to understand how to deal with the situation, through making her to handle the hard situation of forgetting about her long-lost dad, in order to focus on the community which she believed was more important for survival, after meeting with Bankole, who turned out to be her lover (Gale, 41). Similarly, Bankole seems to advise her, due to the age difference, a factor which made Lauren to fall for the person, bearing in mind that the person was older than she actually was. In addition, she seems to have made the best decision, which was actually staying with the community, and not looking for her dad.

Lauren crosses the inception immediately after she decides to change her way of life, in order live peacefully with other people (Butler, 50). While on her journey to the north, Lauren is joined by other people, she mistreats strangers, but later, due to her condition of hyper empathy, she decides to change the way she treats them, hence accommodating strangers into her group, as they move north to seek refuge. In the same way, Lauren tests friends and enemies, by not allowing strangers to join her while she moves north. She later on realizes that the strangers are not actually enemies, hence she later on changes her attitude towards them, thus accommodating them, hence moving together to the north to seek refuge (Gale, 67).

Conclusion

A hero’s journey is a story which explains the adventure undertaken by a hero in a given story. In this case, the parable of the sower is a typical hero’s journey, due to the way its main character Lauren is portrayed. Lauren bares the main characters and characteristics of a hero, a factor which characterizes her story as a hero’s journey. Moreover, the story follows the actual steps which are undertaken in a hero’s journey, thus enabling Lauren to finally undertake her journey to the north to seek refuge. Finally, the story consequently flows according to the structure of a monomyth, hence making Lauren’s story a typical monomyth.  

Work Cited

Craig Chalquist. Why I Seldom Teach the hero’s Journey Anymore – and what I Teach Instead: Huffpost. 2015, Print. Retrieved from: https://www.huffingtonpost.com/craig-chalquist-phd/why-i-seldom-teach-the-he_b_6739046.html

Butler, Octavia E. Parable of the Sower. , 2014. Print.

Gale, Cengage L. Study Guide for Octavia Butler's "parable of the Sower.". Detroit: Gale, Cengage Learning, n.d.. Print.

Joshy Washington. A Traveller’s Guide to the Hero’s Journey: Matador Network. 2015. Retrieved from: https://matadornetwork.com/network/travelers-guide-heros-journey/  

Business Research Assessment

Component 1: Activity One

Literature Search and Review

The first journal is titled ‘’the future of stakeholder management theory: A temporal perspective’’ authored by Verbeke and Tung. This journal was published in the year 2013 with an ABS grading of 4. The paper mainly explored on the role of stakeholder theory in organizational management in securing competitive advantage. In addition, the journal additional explored the existing relationship amid competitive advantage in the economic world today and the implementation of management based strategies. The paper asserts that in order for sustainable competition to be achieved stakeholder theory should be incorporated into the general process of management given that it facilitates the general adoption of suitable strategies and competitive firmness. The paper’s results have offered adequate data which demonstrates that all its three testable premises are sustained which is related to the actual relationship that exists amid competitive advantage, stakeholder theory, and organizational management practices. All the three factors are substantial at p ≤ 0.001. The study is characterized by maximum information because it is focused on the global context. There are several other essential variables that have not been incorporated in the investigation that would have a substantial effect on the result of human resource training.

The second journal is titled ‘’ Micro-foundations for stakeholder theory: Managing stakeholders with heterogeneous motives.’’ authored by Bridoux and Stoelhorst. The journal was published in the year 2017 and holds an ABC ranking of 4. The journal was mainly focused on exploring the role of Stakeholder and equity theory on the anticipated business success.  The paper focused on how businesses should mainly incorporate stakeholder in the management of their operations which can increase the company’s revenue while focusing on consumer and supplier relationships building in order to sustain their competitive capabilities. The paper created two main measurable hypotheses as well as one non-examinable. The information from the journal demonstrates that the three hypotheses had been sustained.

The third journal is titled ‘’Applying stakeholder theory in sustainability management: Links, similarities, dissimilarities, and a conceptual framework’’ authored by Hörisch, Freeman, and Schaltegger. The journal was published in 2014 and has an ABC grading of 4. The paper mainly investigated on how stakeholder theory can be utilized in business for sustainable management. The journal has two main clear hypothesis. It emphasized mainly that in order to generate more revenue organizations should employ stakeholder theory in operations management.  Based on the paper’s analysis the general results mainly supported the theory in regard to capital development.

Investigation Report

The three papers were selected on the basis of content, their locations, date, structure, referencing, title, and authors. The analysis was followed in order to establish the accuracy and dependability of the papers. This implies that the only artless that were selected are those that are peer reviewed which means that they are published by more than a single order. Based on the acquired journals from the internet the selection was based on Management and sustainability in regard to stakeholder theory and the key terms included business, success, competitive and sustainability. The article had to have been published in the last five years through which most of the acquired ones were ruled out. Through the evaluation, it becomes easier to focus on the papers that advocated for the use of stakeholder theory in organizational management for competitive positioning and sustainability.

Summary of What Was Discovered From the Search and Research Process

The process of research revealed that through the search for relevant and reliable journals is necessary. From the research, it is apparent that stakeholder management is the basic strategy of gaining competitive position. In that stakeholder’s management does not only intend to maximize earnings for the stakeholders but it also plays a crucial role in creating business stability (Hörisch, Freeman and Schaltegger, 2014 329). In addition, research revealed that stakeholder theory is a business practice that mainly deals with management and operational ethics that seeks to increase organizational value. Businesses can, therefore, utilize its concepts in shaping as well as growing stability. The theory drives strategic position and operations. The utmost value of any organization is its reputation (Bridoux and Stoelhorst, 2014 110). In this context, placing the general needs of all the stakeholders at the forefront of organizational operation improves the firm’s reputation. In that, while the organization should focus on maximizing the earnings of its investors it should also seek to fulfill the need of the staffs and consumers which will not only create sustainable relationships but increase loyalty due to utmost satisfaction. The theory does not only offer consistent support to commercial beliefs but it can additionally be utilized as a social responsibility guideline which in turn reinforces the company’s brand (Verbeke and Tung, 2013 530).

References

Hörisch, J., Freeman, R.E. and Schaltegger, S., 2014. Applying stakeholder theory in sustainability management: Links, similarities, dissimilarities, and a conceptual framework. Organization & Environment, 27(4), pp.328-346.

Bridoux, F. and Stoelhorst, J.W., 2014. Microfoundations for stakeholder theory: Managing stakeholders with heterogeneous motives. Strategic Management Journal, 35(1), pp.107-125.

Verbeke, A. and Tung, V., 2013. The future of stakeholder management theory: A temporal perspective. Journal of Business Ethics, 112(3), pp.529-543.

Activity Two: Presenting Findings

            Question 1

            H0 – no distinction amid the average annual profit per every staff within the organization. The null hypothesis is that there lacks revenue distinction amid my organization and the industrial average. Symbolically this means that Organisation equals sector’s average

            H1- the annual profit average generation per worker is equal or lesser than the average yearly profit in the industry per worker.  Symbolically this implies that Organisation ≤ average sector.

Question 2

Based on the fact that the alpha state is greater than the organisation’s alpha status which is 0.5, my conclusion would be that there lacks adequate evidence to discard the present null hypotheses which shows that there is no distinction amid the average revenue per worker of this company and the projected industry’s revenue for each worker in the previous operational year. This, therefore, implies that the existing data do not offer any support to the existing hypotheses.

Question 3

It can be computed that z equals to 1203 – 1228 divided by 104 which generates – 0.2404. The increasing probability for the acquired -0.24 generates 0.4052. Based on the analysis it is apparent that the possibility of acquiring revenue per employee is higher with four times.

Question 4

My conclusion is that there lacks adequate data to support H1 and this, therefore, implies that there is no support for the yearly revenue generated by the organization per worker which is lower than that of the sector.

Question 5

This can best be considered as type one error.

Question 6

The assumptions made is that H0 should not be excluded. It was assumed that the data followed a normal circulation. In addition, the information that comprises of the sample depicts the utilized population and data is statistically self-governing.

Component 2:  Essay Critique

Article 5: Organizational ethics, individual ethics, and ethical intentions in international decision-making.

            Introduction

The article titled Organizational Ethics, Individual Ethics, and Ethical Intentions in International Decision-Making authored by Elango care, Kundu Sumit and Paudel Shishir (2010) explores the effect on both personal and organizational ethics on ethical intention. The authors utilized a qualitative study in developing conclusions on that ethical intention of the individual and organization behaviour are essential given that they determine the performance of the business. The study mainly focuses on business and individual ethics given that the intentional behaviour determines success and sustainability in the global context. In this case, the authors mainly claim that more than half of decision failures are mainly driven by ethical intentions. This essay is an academic critique of this article’s structure, hypothesis development and support, methods, literature, and findings.

Context and Background Description and Critique

The article state by carefully attracting its readers in a thorough and yet quick manner which is appropriate. In that within the abstract, it utilizes engaging languages that play part in enhancing the readers understanding of what it entails. Within the introduction, the objective of the paper, background and supporting claims are adequately provided. The main research variables and the hypothesis are clearly highlighted which demonstrate the manner in which individual and company based ethics plays part in decision making and business success, particularly in the global sector. The introduction of the paper is effective in providing knowledge to the readers in regard to its research significance and how ethics affects operations and decision making. The article is thorough and is not too broad or extremely brief given that the study offers complete justifications for the raised arguments and cover any chances for wrong interpretations.

The article asserts that corporate governance is the structure in which organizations are ruled and managed. The primary goals of applying corporate governance are to develop measures that seek to ensure operative managerial control are developed with consideration of privileges and duties of different stakeholders along with ethical standards and practices. Creating an ethical surrounding has been established to a major force that decreases business costs and contributes to success (Elango, Paul, Kundu, and Paudel, 2010). Corporate ethics is acquired both by personal and organizational ethics (Elango, Paul, Kundu, and Paudel, 2010). The article is strategically divided which is essential in presenting its theoretical claims and hypothesis. The research results are thorough are well presented which reveals that individual and company ethic affects organizational management and its reputation. The article’s research backs substantially to business ethics literature in numerous ways. The assertion is particularly on international business decision development a scope that is considered to be of modern business interest due to the growth of globalization. This approach makes the study to be more relevant.

Hypotheses Critique

The study has three hypotheses which are adequately supported by research. The first hypothesis holds that individual ethics is associated with desirable ethical motives (Elango, Paul, Kundu, and Paudel, 2010). The other two demonstrates that the perception of employees towards their job has a direct desirable impact in regard to ethical motives and conduct. The hypothesis is justifiable because adequate information is provided in their support.

Methods Critique

In research, the methodology is accounted to be an essential investigation focus since it enables the development of research patterns, results, and assumptions regarding the subject under discussion. The article utilized a qualitative research method which concentrated on gaining insights in regard to the role played by personal and organizational ethics in corporate governance and intentional ethics. The study utilized a population sample of MBA students in two prime universities in America with a minimum of two years of operating experience and full-time jobs (Elango, Paul, Kundu, and Paudel, 2010). The inclusion strategy that is applied in the study is particularly clear and the study sample is appropriate based on its knowledge, experience, and relationship with regard to the study subject. The use of qualitative approach is additionally suitable because it helped in the establishment of fresh concept and maximized data collection through introducing fresh research theories.

Discussion and Results Critique

The discussion and result parts provide the readers with a relevant understanding of organizational ethics and corporate governance concepts. Actually, the study offered significant and thorough results in the demonstration of how personal ethics within an organization determines business performance and sustainability in international business particularly in the contemporary environment. The discussion and the results are fully dependable because the authors have cited them fully. The results and the conclusions revealed that the study was conducted with the knowledge that corporate governance and ethics plays part in the shaping of organizational decision making capability in regard to international business.

In conclusion, the article is properly structured, formally authored with adequate account of publication elements. The authors have included all the necessary subtitled with supporting claims and evidence that facilitated the development of the three hypothesis that is fully supported by research. The article is therefore relevant given that it tackles a contemporary business issue which surrounds ethics and corporate governance which determines the success of the business. The results are important particularly for international business and ethics application where business managers and policy makers can utilize them in shaping economic performance.

References

Elango, B., Paul, K., Kundu, S.K. and Paudel, S.K. (2010). Organizational ethics, individual ethics, and ethical intentions in international decision-making. Journal of Business Ethics 97:543–561. Springer. DOI 10.1007/s10551-010-0524-z

Hoop Dreams

Introduction

1. ‘Hoop Dreams’ gives an account of two African-American teenagers who struggles in life. Gates and Agee strive to achieve their dream of joining the National Basketball Association despite their poor socioeconomic status (Bruton, 2017). The teenagers come from a poor background   and environment which is characterized by unemployment, low wage jobs, drugs and violence.  This is an important film which reveals the race and challenges met by minorities in U.S.  The teenagers believe that they have an opportunity to create a bright future through sports but the film shows that their desire to join NBA is not an opportunity but it is an obligation. The film plays an important role of revealing an important theme other than basketball glory.  It reveals the life of Black American in the American society and how they strive to achieve their dreams despite various challenges which hinder success such as class and race.  Relating the movie with sociology, the reader is able to see the living conditions and desperate situations which bring disastrous consequences to Black Americans (Bruton, 2017).

1. The film reflects African American’s life and unique ability which is portrayed by William and Arthur. The film is presented in a way that the two teenagers live in an isolated world surrounded by neighborhood with many housing projects (Press & Barkley, 1996).  The author’s point of view is focused on the two teenagers   and captures all their action to fulfill his intention.  Many occurrences in the film play a significant role in developing the story and help the reader gain a deep understanding. For example, William and Arthur react joyously while watching NBA All-Star game and their desire to play in the NBA.  Later, they join St. Joseph’s Catholic school where they face challenges such as walking a long distance and inequality in education between white and Black people.  In the film, the author intends to reveal the struggle and courage which Black people face in U.S. The film tends to reveal the race and social structure especially on Black community (Press & Barkley, 1996). Close-up shots help the audience capture the real message of the film which mainly addresses the struggle of poor neighborhoods compared with wealthier neighborhoods.  Music presents racism and this is portrayed when Arthur is listening to songs describing black people as ‘apes’. The substantive points which the author makes is that poor people in American have limited opportunities which are rooted from deindustrialization. The latter emerged after post-World War which brought economic changes. This made ethic group in U.S to suffer from disproportionately in terms of lack of employment, lack of education, and low wages among other social issues (Press & Barkley, 1996).  This is clearly presented in the film when the father to the teenagers was laid off and looked for other alternatives to sustain his family.  In fact poverty among the minority is due to class division.  Note that William and Arthur have a bright future and are willing to fight poverty through available opportunities.
2. In the film, the author uses popular culture to construct the movie and to clearly allow the audience captures the real picture being portrayed. Normally, popular culture creates categorical distinctions. In other words, popular culture is portrayed in the character with respect to the cultural practices they engage in. Popular culture in the film creates social-culture patterns- the culture is used to shape social dynamics (Carnoy, 1994). In constructing the film, the author presents William and Arthur in a scenario where they are creating an identity. The film presents a popular culture through the way the teenagers struggle to achieve goals despite the challenges. However, they are unable to succeed due to poor education and poor living standards which hinder their ability in making an identity.  In this case, popular culture play a significant role as it allows the audience reflects   on the America culture as well as stereotype.   William and Arthur strive to achieve their dream but they are hindered by racial discrimination (Carnoy, 1994). America is country which is divided between whites and nonwhites.  Minorities, including students are discriminates in socioeconomic opportunities, education and more.  Popular culture is presented in a way that American society has limited the opportunity of Black people despite their effort to deal with socioeconomic disadvantage. The society portrays blocked opportunities toward Black people and they are unable to succeed in life. The film also reveals how Black people struggle with social class which hinders their success in life. Class conflict has developed violence, poor condition in the place of work, coercion among other (Carnoy, 1994).  

1. In the film, the author employs sociological cultural concepts which allow the audience gets the real message in the film. For example, social organization plays an important role in developing the story. In this case, the education institution where William and Arthur join hinders their success (Carnoy, 1994). Despite the fact that both teenagers have an ambition and endure hardship, the school increases the amount of money and the teenagers are forced to pay the extra money. Indeed, the   education institution fails to support Arthur since he is not a star material as they expected.  Racial discrimination is a sociological concept in the film and this is a challenge that hinders achievement. African American children lack education opportunities due to the social class. For example, Arthur was denied the opportunities despite the fact that he had the ability to play basketball. The film presents a social structure and social life (Carnoy, 1994).The two teenagers come from a poor background where they struggle with life to achieve their goals. In many films, Black people are portrayed as poor and the root cause of poverty is political and socioeconomic disadvantage. The family suffers from economic instability despite their hard work and struggle. Inequality is also a sociological concept which makes the two teenagers fail to accomplish their goals in joining NBA.  They end up playing basketball in college rather than joining NBA as they wished. In addition, White students are professional athletics compared with Black students. The root cause of the difference is stereotype which is associated with to poor living standards (Carnoy, 1994).

1. The film has provided a major important strength in that the story is real and the audience derives important lesson based on struggling to achieve the dream despite challenges. William and Arthur face racial discrimination and denial of opportunities but these does not make them quite from achieving their dreams. Even though their dreams end up unreleased, they are move on with life to ensure they have accomplished their set goals. The author shows that the men are able to cope with family poverty, violence, physical injuries among many. However, the film has weakness in that the author uses high school students to reveal the racial discrimination and social class in America (Press & Barkley, 1996).

1. ‘Hoop dream’ and ‘A Raisin in the sun’ have similar popular culture concepts. For example, Mr. Linder in the ‘A Raisin in the sun’ film portrays racial discrimination which Black people face in American society. Minorities face challenges rooted from socioeconomic disadvantages and this makes then unable to achieve their dreams. The film also reveals race and racism in American society and how Black people struggle to gain justice in the society. Similar themes are presented in the ‘hoop dream’ where William and Arthur have to endure challenges in order to move on with life. They face racial discrimination and poverty, and they are denied opportunities to shape their life and create a bright future.

Reference

Carnoy, M. (1994).  Faded dreams: The politics and economics of race in America. Cambridge u.a:

Cambridge Univ.

Press.Joravsky, B., & Barkley, C. (1996). Hoop dreams: A true story of hardship and triumph. HarperCollinsPublishers

Bruton Daniel. (2017). Hoop Dreams 1994 Full Movie. Retrieve from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mo2byncsO4

            Capital punishment

Introduction

The issue of crime has existed throughout all periods of human history. There have always been people who favored engaging in criminal activities rather than living an honest ethical life. Due to the existence of crime, members of society, through their leaders have come up with ways of punishing those who commit a crime so as to ensure that justice is served. The methods used are not only intended to ensure that justice is served but also as a way of discouraging the criminal from repeating the act and also preventing others from following in their footsteps. According to Bedau and Cassell (14), the methods used, therefore, serve as punishment and tools that ensure the issue of crime is controlled, if not eradicated. Though criminals often conduct immoral actions that deserve punishment, those in charge of serving justice often take the moral ground when serving the punishment. In the past, capital punishment was once considered an ideal form of punishment for certain crimes. However, this belief changed over time to the point where capital punishment was abolished in some countries and avoided in others. It is, however, important to note that criminals do not consider the effects their actions will have on their victims. The methods used to bring the criminals to justice should therefore not consider how they will feel but rather focus on the best method that is equal to the crime that the individual has committed, even if it is capital punishment.

In cases regarding murder, serving the capital punishment ensures that the victims are able to find closure. In most cases, people would argue that a life imprisonment is a sufficient form of punishment for those who commit heinous crimes such as murder (Elsworth 120). Though this might appear as a solution and a way of serving justice, the family of the victim may feel like justice has not been served. The family of the victim feels that life imprisonment is not enough because of the criminal, though in prison, gets to live out their lives. This may be seen as an injustice because they took the life of the victim and the only justice that seems equal to their crime is that their life is taken as well. Capital punishment will thus be ideal to help the family of the victim to find closure. Once the person who committed the crime is dead, the family can finally put an end to the whole issue. Closing such a chapter in their life will help them to find closure and finally move on (Bedau and Cassell 9). Though some people may argue that killing the criminal does not bring the victim back to life, the goal is not to resurrect those that have passed but to ensure that the punishment served equals the crime that was committed.

Any form of punishment is intended to punish the criminal for the crime they commit and thus offer retribution. Punishment and retribution are formed on the grounds that only those who are found to be guilty should be punished; and that the punishment should be equal to the crime they committed (Elsworth 120). Capital punishment thus offers retribution because it ensures that the type of punishment one is given equals the crime that was committed.  Every criminal deserves to be punished in a way that equals their crimes, in the case of murder, capital punishment is the most ideal because the criminal pays with their life for the innocent life they took. On the basis of retribution, life imprisonment is not adequate enough because it does not equal the crime that the crime committed. For there to be justice and retribution, the punishment has to be equal, not too lenient or too severe, to the crime that was committed by the offender (Elsworth 121).

Another reason for supporting capital punishment is that it acts as a deterrent to crime (Philips 140). Over the years, the type of punishment such as life imprisonment has served the purpose of not only punishing criminals but also for discouraging them and other members of society from engaging in such criminal activities out of fear of the repercussions that will follow. Though this is effective for some crimes, there are those who need more subtle methods to discourage them from engaging in crimes. Even with the existence of life imprisonment as an acceptable and form of punishment, it fails to deter serious crimes such as murder. Criminals still kill other people and are willing to risk spending life in prison (Guernsey 26). However, capital punishment would serve as a better form of a deterrent because people, including criminals, hold their lives dearly. People are less likely to engage in crimes whose punishment is death and this would go a long way in discouraging criminal activities such as murder.

Other than deterring people from committing crimes, it also discourages criminals who are already serving life imprisonment from engaging in criminal activities (Guernsey 18). Without capital punishment, there is little that the judicial system can do to punish prisoners with such sentences when they engage in criminal activities. Since they are already in prison serving life sentences, the judicial system cannot give them longer sentences, the only thing they can do is deny them some of the few privileges they get in prison. This, however, does not serve as proper punishment for those who end up killing other prisoners. However, in the case where capital punishment is in use, people serving life sentences will be less inclined to commit crime since there is another form of punishment that is more severe than the one they are facing (Bedau and Cassell 5). It, therefore, ensures that even prisoners imprisoned for life do not feel as if they are above the law because there is an extra form of punishment that is yet to be served.

Capital punishment should also be used to switch the role where people believe that the justice system sympathizes more with the criminals rather than the victims. People who are often given life sentences have committed previous crimes before (Philips 142). This shows that despite the various forms of punishment used, the individual is still resulting in crime and is likely to engage in such activities even while in prison. When the justice system still results to give such criminals life imprisonment, it appears as if the system is more interested in preserving the lives of the criminals rather than enacting justice and issuing equal punishment for the crimes they commit. When repeat offenders commit murder, it shows that they do not value human life and have taken up crime as a way of life. By allowing them to continue living, the justice system may be seen as offering sympathy to the criminals and thus not offering justice to the victims (Bedau and Cassell 15). Capital punishment could help to reverse such a view because the victims will get a sense of relief knowing that the criminals paid for their crimes. When a criminal take the life of the victim, it shows that they do not hold any regard for human life. If justice is to be served, their life should be held in the same regard they held those of the victim and this can only be achieved through capital punishment.

Another reason for supporting capital punishment is that it is a permanent solution that ensures that the criminals do not get the chance to repeat the crimes they were convicted of (Guernsey 18). There is the risk that other forms of punishment have loopholes that could result to the criminal finding a way to commit the same crimes, if not worse, that were convicted of. In cases where murderers are given life imprisonment, the criminal may go on to kill other inmates while still in prison. Since some people argue that even prisoners have rights, capital punishment will ensure that their right to life is protected. When people engage in crime, they forfeit certain rights and hence their punishment, people who deserve capital punishment will have thus forfeited their rights and should be punished accordingly. Other than engaging in criminal activities while in prison, there is also the likelihood that prisoners will escape from prison and go back to their life of crime (Guernsey 24). They may embark on a killing spree especially when trying to evade the police and ensure they do not go back to prison. Capital punishment is thus the best type of punishment to ensure that the criminals do not get another chance to engage in crime.

Most people against the use of capital punishment argue that it will result in the killing of innocent people who were wrongly convicted. However, the judicial system has various measures in place to ensure that there is little chance of people being wrongfully convicted (Ellsworth 123). There is a panel of 12 jurors who evaluate the evidence and the case presented in court. For the individual to be found guilty, all the jurors must come to the same conclusion that the accused is guilty of the charges laid against them. There is also DNA testing where tests are conducted to evaluate the evidence used. These tests are very accurate thus ensuring that the accused is actually guilty of the crime. With such methods, those sentenced to capital punishment will thus be guilty and deserving of this form of punishment for their crimes (Ellsworth 123).

Conclusion

Crime has always been part of human society and the punishment given to criminals was meant to punish and discourage further criminal activities. In the modern world, life imprisonment is regarded as an ideal form of punishment for major crimes like rape and murder. Though it is effective in some cases, there are those occurrences where a different type of punishment is required such as capital punishment. People may argue that capital punishment is immoral and unethical because it takes an individual’s right to live. If this were the case, life imprisonment should also be done away with because it infringes. All rights are equal and should be treated as such. Capital punishment is necessary because it has various benefits and could help solve the issue of repeat offenders. However, care should be taken to ensure that those served with capital punishment are indeed guilty and their crime is worthy of such a punishment.

Work Cited

Bedau, Hugo A, and Paul G. Cassell. Debating the Death Penalty: Should America Have Capital Punishment? : The Experts on Both Sides Make Their Case. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2004. Print.

Ellsworth Phoebe and Ross Lee “Public opinion and capital punishment: A close examination of the views of abolitionists and retentionists” Crime & Delinquency. 2003. Pp. 116- 169.

Guernsey, JoAnn B. Death Penalty: Fair Solution or Moral Failure? Minneapolis: Twenty-First Century Books, 2010. Print.

Phillips, David P. “The Deterrent Effect of Capital Punishment: New Evidence on an Old Controversy.” American Journal of Sociology, vol. 86, no. 1, 2000, pp. 139–148. JSTOR, JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/2778855. 

The Extent to Which Oedipus Could Have Avoided His Fate

It is universally believed that every individual owns a unique fate and the only authoritative is to understand it, follow, change, avoid or follow it. Oedipus is an individual condemned by his fate despite the fact that he did all he could in avoiding the undesirable fate (Puchner 482). In fact, he ultimately kills his father and marries his own mother all in the act of avoiding the set fate without his knowledge (Bloom 21). It is apparent that Oedipus could have avoided the fate given that he held a free will which refers to the freedom to select a suitable path despite the fact that his life had been predetermined. It is arguable that Oedipus had a free drive, in regard to the decisions that he makes to chase his histories. In that, his devastation comes not from his endeavors themselves but mainly from his persisting exertions to acquire the truth, via which he uncovers the actual state of the dreadful conducts (Puchner 484). Oedipus should have avoided his fate to the utmost extent by choosing not to chase his histories to gain access to the truth.

Oedipus should have avoided his fate by making more focused and fulfilling decisions. Given that he understood that his fact dictated that he would have killed his father and ultimately marry his mother he would not have chosen to chase his past in order to acquire the truth about his parents (Bloom 21). Oedipus solely makes a justified and distinct argument as the play ends by stating that his dreadful actions were actually destined but it was his own decisions that blinded him from avoiding them (Bloom 21). In this context, he raises the argument that while at times destiny can never be escaped, the manner in which one responds to their fate is based on self-will and decisions. His determination is justified given that his man intention was to avoid the fate which in turn led him to fulfil the dreadful deeds. Oedipus ignored the fact that it was never possible to avoid destiny but changing but it is his responses that would determine whether his destiny will be fulfilled (Bloom 21). He, therefore, chose a path that led him to his destiny given that he sought to establish his past in order to alter his fate.

It cannot be denied that Oedipus is a proud individual and he is fully justified to hold the impression given that he deserved the authority.  His pride, however, became his failure similar to most leaders.  His arrogance blinded him which fueled him not to accept that he would never avoid the set destiny (Peterson’s 74). He is at first impacted by his pride after learning about what has been set for him which to him was dreadful. This created some form of fear given that he would never imagine being a murderer and a husband to his mother which forced him to flee. It is ironic that his fear and pride which pressured him to evade his destiny placed him on the track that he tried to escape. It is his pride that got him involved in a fight with his father because he believed that he was right thus causing him to be a murderer. He kept on venturing in fresh ways so as his fate would be avoided (Peterson’s 74). This, therefore, demonstrates that Oedipus was enthusiastic and held the belief that his destiny would be circumvented.

If Oedipus would have overcome his fear about the set fate he would have settled and chosen not to learn about his past. In addition, he would not have fled. If also he had rejected his arrogance and allow the carriage to follow their perceived right path the argument, fight, and murder would have been evaded (Bloom 22). Oedipus pride contributed heavily to the story since it demonstrated in several ways that he had a good chance to evade his destiny which was not pleasing. His general issue was that he had an impudent character that hindered him from letting things to flow. He was actually, very confident and was particularly determined to ensure that he eluded his destiny. His fear and arrogance demonstrate that it was his fault based on his passionate decisions that led him to his destiny which was a tragic move (Bloom 23). If owned distinct characteristics then he would have adequately avoided this fate given that his passionate and actions were mainly guided by pride and assertiveness which hindered the capability to bring changes.

Oedipus met his tragic destiny not because he engaged in any evil actions but based on the individual that he chooses to become. The play utilized pride in order to depict Oedipus as a disastrous individual given that he was bound to create misery for himself based on his pride (Bloom 23). The play demonstrates that destiny is there and every individual is part of it but what is bound to occur is mainly determined by the individual we become. In this context, after it was stated by the Oracle about the disturbing truth this was the actual things that would occur and if he was a distinct individual then the destiny would have been evaded. His statement proved that he met the sad fate based on his decisions (Peterson’s 74). In that despite the fact that it is not thinkable to avoid destiny it is rather accurate his decisions fueled him to the undesirable choice. Oedipus chose to track his past based on his determination to establish the truth. On the other hand, he fled to escape from those that he thought were his actual parents without understanding that instead of avoiding he was consistently chasing his own destiny (Peterson’s 74). A change of character would have been essential in avoiding the accomplished destiny.

In conclusion, Oedipus would have avoided the tragic fate only if he chose not to track his past based on fear of the horrific destiny, pride, and confidence. His tragic fate was mainly fueled by his fear when he chooses to flee and operated on his confidence and pride to establish the truth. It is his arrogance and confidence that forced him to fight and at the end murder his father which placed him at the situation of wedding his mother. If he had controlled his confidence and pride he would have adequately ignored the simple argument and allowed them to follow the way that they perceived to be reliable. His buoyancy and pride created egotism thus forcing him to oath his path. It is ironic that the same characteristics that secured his wealth and authority drove him to the sad destiny which would have been avoided by being a different individual.

Work Cited

Bloom, Harold. Sophocles' Oedipus Rex. New York: Chelsea House, 2007. Internet resource.

Peterson’s. Master the Ged 2013. , 2012. Internet resource.

Puchner, Martin. The Norton Anthology of World Literature. New York: W.W. Norton & Co, 2012. Print.

The book RIGHT TO RIDE

Introduction

Today, there are very few individuals in America and globally who appear to recall that the entire civil right measure was not commenced by legendries such as Luther King. ‘’Right to Ride: Streetcar Boycotts and African American Citizenship in the Era of Plessy v. Ferguson’’ authored by Kelly L.M Blair highlights the principally overlooked fight by African Americans in some major cities from the south where they fought using systematized protests in contradiction of isolation regulations influences. The laws had been developed post the decision by the American Supreme Court from Plessy v. Ferguson case in 1896 which permitted the application of segregation under the scandalous ‘’Separate But Equal Doctrine’’ (Kelley, 2010). Despite the fact that the black community exerted efficient resistance movements against transit systems discrimination there are multifaceted issues that arose within the black community thus creating sociopolitical and class disunions.

    In the book, Kelley recovers consciousness of this disremembered civil rights generation who had been for the longest period be disregarded. The author notes that the dissimilar governance motivation of the streetcar rejects cannot be effortlessly characterized as either accommodative or objection (Kelley, 2010). It is arguable that, whereas Kelley investigates into pressures that are within the black persons communal, the author additionally, highlights that it is not accurate to represent the boycott initiatives to be a failure on the ground that they yielded less contribution. The author notes ‘’ it is immoral to categorize the boycott efforts as an unsuccessful effort of minor and privileged black persons to acquire inclusion in the comprehensive middle class’’ (Kelley, 2010). More so, the Kelley asserts on the role played by the female genders. In that ‘’, they were involved in the development of strategic tactics that were used in thoughts and concerns expressions against the proposed exclusion’’ (Kelley, 2010). It is apparent that despite the fact that not much was yielded it is clear that the boycotts formed the basis for the general form of democracy and civil rights measures against racial discrimination. The author adds ‘’African women were particularly searching for an equal guard under the law’’ (Kelley, 2010).

    Primarily American Revolution started settlers began to protest after some laws were passed that they believed overstepped on their civil liberties. The protests later grew to become upheaval given that the issues relating to liberties transformed and depended mainly on rights (Shi & Tindall, 2015).  The author asserts that the upheavals were mainly fueled by the fact that the laws were mainly seeking to generate segregation something that was not only affecting the settler’s privileges but democracy in general. ‘’The movement restrictions were violating their citizenship and attempted to lower their living’’ (Kelley, 2010). The communities were in need of equality given that they felt that they deserved the privileges same as those of the white race. In that ‘’the issues of race had the movement for the black community in the southern cities ’’ (Fleming, 2013). The author notes ‘’ liberty and privileges of the liberals are best comprehended by the British American settlers’’ (Shi & Tindall, 2015). In that, despite the fact that the less privileged settlers in America and Britain can directly establish the benefits of existing under the coverage of strong governments, after they established that their rights and citizenship liberties were under threat confrontation began to evolve and later become uprising and the freedom war.

    Shi and Tindall however, believed that the revolution was an experimental based that was focused on abolishing the segregated bonds and administrations. In that, the revolutionist did not mainly act against everything that had been proposed but they wished to abolish the regulations that acted against their wellness as they sought inclusion. The authors note ‘’Segregation brought about objections based on the suffering and stress that it installed on African Americans by restricting their movements and disrespecting their rights ’’ (Kelley, 2010).They were mainly involved in the applauding of the dissenters in the fight for Americans commitment. In addition the proposed and asserted for the formation of fresh regulations as their minds and efforts were mainly based on winning the revolutionary war. The authors asserted that ‘’the challenges were not only experienced by the revolutionaries as those that sought to acquire societal transformation were also included’’ (Shi & Tindall, 2015). This became the foundation for the longest struggle as they started to establish issues and question the operation in regard to the categorized and conservative authority that did not only threatens their rights but their lives quality which presented further challenges during the period. ‘’While the combination of this group was effective in creating some significant transformations which were experienced in the broader context’’ (Shi & Tindall, 2015). These changes included ‘’closure of slavery, increased parting amid church and government they were unsuccessful as they did not acquire similar accomplishments as those that were achieved by distinct rebels’’ (Shi & Tindall, 2015).

Shi and Tindall (2015) stated that ‘’ the primary issue that was faced by the rebels was the manner of acting in regard to their perception and definition of the fresh environment that they desired to develop.’’ Despite the fact that they had the privileges to participate in constitutional and societal mandates their contributions were being limited given that they were mainly fighting to create change and achieve liberty for the settlers in America. Most of them were forced to withdraw from the activities in witty distrust and tragedy given that most of the comrades took the established phrases and utilized them both plainly and substantially. Most of the rebels were in agreement with the concept that all unrestricted white males were diplomatically and legitimately equivalents. ‘’This was the form of thorough change that most of them were searching for (Shi & Tindall, 2015)’’. This was rather accurate given that it differed positively from what was being offered from most countries. However, some rebels argued for the creation of a fresh society that meant that everyone was alike regardless of their color or creed.

    In this context, if every man was treated fairly this implied that gender did not matter. It is however ironic that despite the fact that the rebels were mainly seeking to create equity regardless of race, faith or gender most of them were unwilling to put away with traditional, ethnic and societal limits which they utilized in describing the surrounding. ‘’ The fact that the rebels were being guided by different ethnic principles created more separation amid them’’ (Shi & Tindall, 2015). However, despite the occurrence, they uniformly formed a union given that they were all seeking for revolution for all Americans. Prior to the revolutionary war, the black community was mainly characterized by the long past of compromising with the state laws. The author states ‘’Most black people were involved given that they were passionate to end the discrimination’’ (Shi & Tindall, 2015). Segregation was mainly applied as a major tool to dissolve the rebels given that the movements were becoming stronger (Fleming, 2013).

In conclusion, it is clear that the African Americans had for the longest period engaged in the struggle for equality as well as revolution after high cooperation. However, with the judgment of Plessy v. Ferguson case which set foundation for segregation the rebels were not willing to stop until liberation had been achieved. Equality was their main agenda given that the philosophized that individuals should acquire equal privileges without considering their faith, race or even gender. Kelley, acknowledges the fact that the efforts of such small groups were being ignored despite their undeniable contributions.

References

Fleming, T. (2013). African Americans in the American Revolution. Retrieved from https://allthingsliberty.com/2013/05/revolution-in-black/

Kelley, B. M. (2010). Right to ride: Streetcar boycotts and African American citizenship in the era of Plessy v. Ferguson. Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press.

Shi, D. E., & Tindall,George, B. (2015). America: The essential learning edition. W W Norton & Company Incorporated

Changing my path in life

A life-changing or defining moment

 In  life, change  in inevitable  and everyone is  expected to embrace change  even if  it is associated with ups and downs.  A life changing moment in my life was a path which directed me toward finding  success.  I remember one day  when I was at my workplace  relaxing after  being exhausted.  This is the day when my life changed  since at that particular time I was  thinking about my future and  I could ask myself questions like  “Is this really what I want to do with the rest of my  life“. The idea of building  a  future and changing my life disturbed me for a couple of weeks. The thing that was clinging in my mind was  that change is inevitable and in order to move on, I had to take a step and make change in life.  As I was thinking about my future, I asked myself  “how will life be 30 years from now if I continue  doing a job which  I do not have passion?  ‘I am sure I will regret for spending all my time on something that I did not really enjoy’. Again,  I believed that life  should not be boring and since a  human  being must work to sustain life,  this was the high time to move  on and  start something where I could  work with passion.

I  had  different options  and  I mainly focused on ‘what do I want to do to succeed in life?’. Though deciding what to do was an insurmountable task, I finally made  a  wise decision. After work, I went home sat down at my computer like I so often did. Then it hit me; I like computers, they intrigue me especially cyber security. Why don’t I just go work with computers? Well, I would need some form of education for that. I started to look for schools with some interesting computer degrees and skills I wanted to add in that matter. I found what I wanted to learn, but I doubted myself if I would be able to do that. Since I had made life changing decisions, I overcame doubt by having confidence and seeing life in a positive way.
           

The next day I went to work and in the evening I went back home after a very long and tiring day.  At this time I had a constructive thought which could lead to positive outcomes. I sat down in front of my computer and decided that this was the day that I would start working on my application for that school. That day is the day that everything changed for me. I can say that this was a life changing moment in that I had struggled with life and I was about to lose hope. Amazingly, the idea of finding a career associated with passion and motivation was a path toward success. Now I am in a position of setting achievable goals and working hard to achieve them.