Imperialism and World War I Essay

Having ruled for 63 years, Queen Victoria was considered the longest reigning monarch in British history. She assumed position in the 20th of June 1837 and from then on reigned until May 1st of 1876. This period, therefore, earned the name Victorian age. Queen Victoria headed not only the United Kingdom of Britain and Ireland. She also ruled the colonies of her vast empire which including parts of Asia, Africa and North America. The British Empire was built up for three decades and in the third century, included almost one-third of the countries in the world. Since Queen Victoria became the monarch of the empire at the time Britain was at its highest in terms of economic and imperial expansion, she intended to make her empire the exemplar to other domains. In her time, due to the economic forces brought about by the industrial revolution, there was a need for acquisition of more lands. The desire for the greater or the greatest economic advantage urged European powers to extend their territories. More territories meant more power. Territories are sources of raw materials needed for the manufacture of products for export. They, too, are seen as potential markets and trade partners of the ruling country. Having colonies overseas was very important that imperialism should be carried on. Imperialism involves the political, economical, and social domination of lands. European powers had several reasons for imperialism. First, they needed territories to gain political and economic power. Second, they needed sources of raw materials and markets. There was the search for spices, sugar, rubber, tea and gold from different territories (The Norton Anthology of English Literature, 2008). Third, they felt the need for them to propagate Christianity to the world. Imperialism during Queen Victoria’s time was the new imperialism which was primarily driven by the Industrial Revolution which had the greatest economic influence at that time. This was parallel to the old imperialism that was driven by mercantilism. In 1900, the British Empire had territories extending to five continents. Their territories have expanded and there was much competition among European countries. An example of this would be the competition for the acquisition of lands in Africa. This had caused rivalry among European countries like Britain and France which they have settled later on. Soon after, conflict arose in the northern part of Africa; Germany was against Britain and France. Conflicts brought about by imperialism are said to have set the stage for the First World War. Considered the most destructive war in European history, World War I lasted for four years involving 32 countries worldwide. The war began in August 1914 and was triggered by the assassination of the then Archduke of Austria, Francis Ferdinand. Causes of the war are said to be complex, interrelated, and are rooted deeply in history. Some of the apparent reasons of the war include militarism which involves the construction of a powerful military army; nationalism which involves the strong devotion and loyalty to one’s country; capitalism which is motivated by profit and desire for economic power; and imperialism which is the domination of lands to gain economic and political power. There are other reasons that up until now have not yet been determined. After the war, there were great financial losses and the number of fatalities was high. European countries began to weaken. Reference: The Norton Anthology of English Literature. The Victorian Age.   8. Retrieved March 27, 2009, from http://www.wwnorton.com/college/english/nael/victorian/welcome.htm

Filipino Traits Essay

Negative, because it arrests or inhibits one’s action. This trait reduces one to smallness or to what Nietzsche calls the â€Å"morality of slaves†, thus congealing the soul of the Filipino and emasculating him, making him timid, meek and weak. Positive, because, it contributes to peace of mind and lack of stress by not even trying to achieve. Ningas-cogon (procrastination) Negative, by all standards, because it begins ardently and dies down as soon as it begins. This trait renders one inactive and unable to initiate things or to persevere. Positive, in a way, because it makes a person non-chalant, detached, indifferent, nonplussed should anything go wrong, and hence conducive to peace and tranquillity. Pakikisama (group loyalty) Negative, because one closes one’s eyes to evils like graft and corruption in order to conserve peace and harmony in a group at the expense of one’s comfort. Positive, because one lives for others; peace or lack of dissension is a constant goal. Patigasan (test of strength) Negative, because it is stubborn and resists all efforts at reconciliation. The trait makes us childish, vindictive, irresponsible, irrational. Actions resulting from this trait are leaving the phone off the hook to get even with one’s party line; stopping the engine of the car to prove that one has the right of way; standing one’s ground until the opposite party loses its patience. Positive, because it is assign that we know our rights and are not easily cowed into submission. It is occidental in spirit, hence in keeping with Nietzsche’s â€Å"will to power.† Bahala na (resignation) Negative, because one leaves everything to chance under the pretext of trusting in Divine providence. This trait is really laziness disguised in religious garb. Positive, because one relies on a superior power rather than on one’s own. It is conducive to humility, modesty, and lack of arrogance. Filipino Traits Kasi (because, i. e., scapegoat) Negative, because one disowns responsibility and makes a scapegoat out of someone or something. One is never to blame; one remains lily white and has a ready alibi for failure. Positive, because one can see both sides of the picture and know exactly where a project failed. One will never suffer from guilt or self-recrimination. Saving Face Negative, because, being closely related to hiya and kasi, it enables a person to shirk responsibility. One is never accountable for anything. Positive, because one’s psyche is saved from undue embarrassment, sleepless nights, remorse of conscience. It saves one from accountability or responsibility. This trait enables one to make a graceful exit from guilt instead of facing the music and owning responsibility for an offense. Sakop (inclusion) Negative, because one never learns to be on one’s own but relies on one’s family and relatives. This trait stunts growth and prevents a person from growing on one’s own. Generating a life of parasitism, this trait is very non-existential. Blaring music, loud tones are a result of this mentality. We wrongly think that all people like the music we play or the stories we tell. This mentality also makes us consider the world as one vast comfort room. Positive, because one cares for the family and clan; one stands or falls with them. This trait makes a person show concern for the family to which he belongs. Maà ±ana or â€Å"Bukas na† (procrastination) Negative, because one constantly postpones action and accomplishes nothing. This aggravates a situation, a problem grows beyond correction, a leak or a small break becomes a gaping hole. This arises from an indolent mentality that a problem will go away by itself. Positive, because one is without stress and tension; one learns to take what comes naturally. Like the Chinese wu-wei, this trait makes one live naturally and without undue artificiality. THE IMPORTANCE OF READING The importance of reading to children cannot be over emphasized. It is also a great way to focus on the family. With that in mind, â€Å"Little Ones Reading Resource† is dedicated to every child and every family out there and to educating us â€Å"big† people about the importance of reading to children and its role in child development. Every child deserves to have a good book read to her. Every child deserves to have good books he can call his very own, stored on his very own book shelf where he can pull them out and â€Å"read† them any time he wants. The importance of reading to children is significant in child development, and reading books to little ones at an early age is essential. In fact, reading childrens stories aloud is one of the most important activities we, as parents, grandparents, teachers, and care-givers, can do for our kids. The importance of reading to children plays out in a myraid of developmental, emotional, and learning issues from bonding and security . . . to learning to read . . . to future success. The best part about reading childrens stories to our little ones is that we can ALL do it! We don’t have to be experts, or rocket scientists, or teachers, or even millionaires to experience the joys of snuggling up with our little ones and enjoying a special story. There is SO MUCH more to reading books to a baby, toddler, preschooler, and school-age child than meets the eye. Isn’t it great to know that something so simple can make such a difference? All children should have good books of their very own, as it is truly a fantastic way to encourage reading. However, we don’t have to think of material things when we think of gifts. The greatest gift we can give our children is the gift of OURSELVES — our time, our talents, our prayers, our thoughts of kindness, and our acts of love and compassion. Any day is a good day to step forward and offer the gift of yourself by reading a book to your little ones! Please come on in and look around and learn about the i mportance of reading to children . . . and let’s start reading together today!

Biotech benifits drought and salinity resistant crops

Biotech benifits drought and salinity resistant crops A study released March 14 concluded that more than 500,000 people could die due to the effects of climate change on food production. And it isn’t the first warning. This headline comes after a 2013 report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture saying that climate change could devastate agriculture. The warming climate, the report explained, could lead to dramatic increases in weeds, pests, and diseases. Other scientists have said the change in frequency and severity of extreme weather events (like heat waves, droughts, and floods) could lead to lower yields.â€Å"we’re going to end up in a situation where we have a multitude of things happening that are going to negatively impact crop production†, said Jerry Hatfield, a USDA plant physiologist. At the same time our climate is changing, our population is growing quickly: We’ll need to feed an estimated 9.7 billion people by 2050.Biotech crops, designed to withstand the effects of climate change, are one tool that could help us meet the challenge of feeding more people in a changing world. Here’s how: Drought-tolerant corn: This corn variety, available in the United States, was specifically designed for dry, drought-like conditions. These plants still need water, but they have been engineered to protect farmer’s yields in moderate drought years. A public-private partnership in Africa is now working to develop a drought-tolerant variety specifically designed for the continent. It’s estimated that better corn varieties could increase yields by 20 to 35 percent in food-insecure communities. Hyper-efficient, drought-resistant rice: Scientists in the UK are using genetic engineering to change the photosynthesis process in rice. The new variety could double water efficiency and increase tolerance to warmer temperatures. It could increase productivity up to 50 percent, and it has been called â€Å"one of humanity’s best chances for ending world hunger.†Salinity-tolerant crops: Climate change is expected to make river water (which is used for irrigation) saltie r. Scientists are experimenting with genetically modified wheat and barley that will be able to withstand higher levels of salt in water. In addition to allowing farmers to grow food in changing conditions, these varieties would free up more fresh water for drinking. Biotech crops won’t just help with climate change adaptation in the future; they’re also helping to mitigate climate change right now. Biotech crops make it easier for farmers to practice no-till farming. It’s a way of farming without plowing the soil. This means carbon stays in the soil and is not released into the atmosphere. Insect-resistant crops need fewer pesticide sprays, leading to less use of tractors and the fuel they need. In 2010, the use of biotech crops helped remove 19.4 billion kilograms of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, almost the same as taking 8.6 million cars off the road for a year. So while climate change certainly poses a threat to agriculture, we have an important tool to mitigate and adapt. Biotech is part of the solution. Specially designed crops will be one more tool in the toolkit for feeding a hungry, growing population in warming world.

Pro and Con about gun control Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Pro and Con about gun control - Essay Example Such a flexibility of the legislative framework of all American states is accounted for the peculiarities of the changing dangerous situation of the U.S. citizens who over and over again suffer from the lack of arms trafficking control on both markets, official and underworld ones. The issue is that numerous pros and cons of weapon possession as well as the interdependent amount of crime have significant differences standing on each specific case of different America’s states, which have a bit or radically varying laws of gun control. So let’s study and consider what for and against arguments can serve for the critical solicitude of the Americans’ status as a shooting nation in relation to its own safety. It is firstly necessary to explain that the issue of gun control manifests its relevancy through the increasing number of murders, rapes, robberies, different incidents on the back of weapon possessing by everyone from adults with mental health through dropouts to children and adolescents with divergent response to possible acts of aggression or other reasons for gun use. This applies especially to the fact that â€Å"†¦as the gun ownership rises, so does the gun homicide rate. More guns mean more gun deaths† (Harmon, 2013). Really, weapon ownership increases the risk of being killed. For that matter America’s case is extremely screaming for its almost hundred-per-cent national possession of any type of arms. â€Å"Overall, 46 percent of gun owners own some kind of gun primarily for protection against crime. The figure is 41 percent for males, and 67 percent for females† (Cook, & Ludwig, 2008). These data can confirm a greater anxiety for their safety among women, whereas in contrast men are those who much more likely to pull the trigger (according to statistics). So the primarily reason of carrying-weapons is self-defense. They say weapon doesn’t

Corporate Social Responsibility always adds value to the brand Essay

Corporate Social Responsibility always adds value to the brand - Essay Example Whether reacting as a result of peer pressure or because of basic human decency, corporations that choose to implement corporate social responsibility initiatives improve their image and increase their brand value. This increases their competitive advantage and can enhance their image thus attracting talented or skilled workers who may wish to be hired by respected companies. The improved image will also positively affect the attractiveness of the organization’s goods or services. In all circumstances, CSR initiatives that are meant to improve the community or preserve the environment also generate environmental as well as social value, while simultaneously supporting the organization’s corporate objectives, improving relationships with all stakeholders, and reducing overall costs. In modern times, the trend of social consciousness is affecting every facet of public life. The business scene has particularly been impacted by the notion of giving back to the community that has given its support. Being socially conscious basically has to do with having additional commitments other than just meeting financial organisational objectives. The push for businesses to take on more socially-related responsibilities has produced a noticeable change in organisational stakeholders like workers, customers, contractors, and shareholders in most industries. This is because these stakeholders are usually vested in ensuring that their brands remain in the minds of present clients as well as potential customers. For brands to be marketable in Western nations today, they have to be linked to some type of socially conscious agenda. Organisations can no longer create interest by defining their brands in terms of their functions or abilities; they also have to include culturally rela ted, environmentally-related, or socially-related statements in their marketing messages in

Anode materials in Li-ion batteries Research Paper

Anode materials in Li-ion batteries - Research Paper Example Moreover, future development requires different ways of improving the anode materials which shall be discussed in this paper. The paper would be of prime importance for engineers and electronic professionals dealing in Li-ion Batteries whereas it will also benefit other researchers and people who are interesting in learning about the anode materials. Description Li-ion Battery is also known as Lithium ion battery which is primarily used as rechargeable support to different electronic devices. Currently its market sell is around 11 billion which is expected to reach 60 billion by 2020 (Li-ion batteries). Due to the technological advancements human lives are now prominently dominated by electronic gadgets and other devices. These portable electronic items require immense support of rechargeable batteries and hence Lithium ion Battery performs a very crucial role in the technological development. However, these batteries are associated with another important factor which directly impact s their performance and efficiency i.e. the properties of Anode materials used (Li-ion batteries). Source: Futurity 1 Li-ion batteries function on the basis of discharge and recharge of lithium ions. When Lithium ions are transferred from anode to cathode the Li-ion battery discharges. Subsequently it is attached to a socket in order to recharge the ions which now travel in opposite direction i.e. from cathode to anode. The property of materials used in anode substantially affects the capacity and performance of the battery. If some lapses occur in the performance of batteries then particular anode materials are replaced with substances having more capacity, density, battery life cycle, life span of the charge etc. (Li-ion batteries). The chemical reactions taking place in Li-ion batteries are presented below: Complete reaction in a cell of Li-ion Battery At Anode At Cathode The following diagram depicts the Li-ion battery in a functioning state and the movement of ions can be close ly observed. Source: Nexeon 1 Properties of Anode Materials Different anode materials are used in Lithium batteries depending upon the requirement of chargeable devices. The selection of material is further associated with the capacity constraints and the overall life of the battery. Graphite is commercially used in Li-ion battery. The first generation of Li-ion batteries was primarily operated with graphite anode material because it was found beneficial in placing the Lithium ions in to variable layers. Later on these materials were changed due to the limited capacity of graphite to store charge i.e. 300mAhg-1 (Li-ion batteries). Extensive research was conducted so as to identify other suitable materials which could be placed at anode and consequently silicon was examined to be more productive than graphite. Silicon gives the maximum gravimetric capacity while increasing the battery life. The volumetric capacity of anode significantly enhances with the insertion of lithium ions tak e in to the silicon material (Li-ion batteries). When a Li-ion battery is charged which is primarily designed with silicon anode material then the lithium ions enter the silicon ions subsequently increasing the volume by 400%. On the other hand when the battery discharges the lithium ions are removed from silicon material hence decreasing the overall volume. Although silicon has found to be more efficient than the graphite anodes but the continuous contraction and expansion ultimately causes

Addictions in the 21st Century Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Addictions in the 21st Century - Essay Example It started in the 19th century. Addiction 2 is a compulsion to substance abuse that causes major problems in the society. Addiction 3 results into dependency especially when one becomes addicted to specific activities and behaviors. Finally, addiction 4 is seen when an individual engages in activities repeatedly; however, such activities are harmless. Addiction is common in the 21st century because people fail to concentrate on a single habit. Instead, they are obsessed by various activities such as video games, chartroom, internet, emailing, watching pornography, and using cell phones. In addition, the high rate of addiction in the 21st century is caused by the inability of the media to educate people on the dangers of addiction. This is because they reassure people using humored indications that glorify addiction. Most people in the 21st century are restless and dissatisfied. They participate in activities such as surfing, watching pornography, gambling, playing computer games, abu se of substances. These activities usually lead to dependence. People in the 21st century feel that they lack connections and relationships in their life. They prefer to address the emptiness with activities that lead to addiction. The 21stcentury is characterized by several activities that cause stress. This makes people to engage in processes that lead to addiction.

Political science Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 5

Political science - Essay Example This is an issue that scholars and academics have spent a great deal of time considering since the conclusion of the Second World War. In 1945, the United States dropped two nuclear weapons on Japan, ending the war. To many, this suggests that nuclear weapons can be used to make peace and end war. Indeed, in the last seventy years no one else has used a nuclear weapon. Perhaps it makes sense to give these weapons to all countries, so that no one will wish to use them. However, as one scholar puts it: Given that nuclear weapons have not been used in war since 1945, that modern biological weapons have arguably never been utilized in warfare, and that the risk of chemical weapons is often considered exaggerated, one might think preventing the proliferation of WMDs is not a critical policy issue. However, the proliferation of new weapons systems can have a profound impact on international politics even at levels short of war. The impact on the coercive power of states and the potential for actual use make nuclear weapons potentially destabilizing in the international security environment. (Horowitz, 2). It is a bit naà ¯ve to believe that nuclear weapons cause peace. They are indeed a source of instability whether they are possessed by many or possessed by only a few. The main problem is that not all states are rational. Some behave in ways that are difficult to calculate. Indeed, some leaders suffer from mental illness. In fascist or dictatorial states, the leader of a power is unquestioned. Some states might want to commit national suicide by nuking another state that has nuclear weapons. Scholars and political scientists too often believe that everything in politics is a science and that the rational prevail. This is not what history teaches us. History shows that powerful weapons will be used in unpredictable ways. The

Working with children from birth to age 5 years Assignment

Working with children from birth to age 5 years - Assignment Example They need a safe environment along with proper care to lead a healthy life. This paper aims to provide the basic understanding about the environment which should be arranged for their active learning and safety. This paper is a guideline for the setting for young children from birth to age 5 years. Safety and Health Requirements Safety is one of the main concerns when dealing with children up to 5 years of age. The babies and young children should be prevented from cot death. They must be properly put down for sleep i.e. preferably ‘feet to foo’ position. The temperature of the environment should be normal for the safety of children and the prevention of illness and other issues. Babies should not be left alone at any instance especially for longer periods. Smoky environment is particularly harmful for babies and hence, adults should never smoke in front of them. Children tend to climb furniture, stairs and other surfaces higher than the floor and for a safe environment it is necessary that the baby is kept away from all surfaces which may lead to a fall. A person who can watch the baby all the time can ensure that the baby does not fall. Avoid any objects which the children may put into their mouths. Keep such objects away from the reach of children as they are dangerous for them. Choking and swallowing incidents may be avoided by careful consideration given to tiny objects which a child may spot. The electric cords and outlets should be out of reach of the children. They may get electric shocks either by touching, biting or playing with those electric cords and outlets or by poking metal material in them. The preventions against electrocution are hence, necessary. Placing heavy furniture in front of the outlets, keeping cords way higher than their reach and cover the electric outlets tightly are some of measures to prevent electrocution accidents. All these preventions are necessary to ensure that the children get a safe and sound environment (He berle & Scutella p 44-48). The children from a very tender age have certain physical and health requirements which need to be fulfilled. Parents are advised to send lunch with children so that they are able to study with a healthy mind. The children of a young age need to have their breakfast daily so they can be healthy. Children need an environment in which they can get toys to play with and hence to promote a better learning environment it is necessary some sort of toys are given to them (Tassoni 2007 p.516). Setting needed for an educational environment All over the world it is seen that education has become a primary necessity for every individual. Today the class or race does not matter much but rather the education one achieves has a greater importance. Special students have also been given preference when it comes to studies. Classroom Management Plans are designed to help students to achieve a better grade and better environment to study (Khalsa 2007). Young children have s pecific requirements of these classroom management plans which revolve around the visual environment and the physical arrangement in the class. Visual learning is a way through which the children can be encouraged to study as they are attracted towards the colors and drawings. Similarly walls are also decorated in such a way that the students are attracted to the charts on the walls. Different posters about the classrooms are put on the walls which are there to attract students. These visuals are quite important for the children who are studying these days as this would promote better understanding in the class (Tassoni 2007 p 27-30) Physical arrangement of the chairs on which the children sit are also considered important because it would allow more room to the children. Children at a