Critique Of The Martian Chronicles - 1238 Words

Lasiter 1 10/28/17 Meyer Period 3 The Martian Chronicles Critique Ray Bradbury was an American author born on August 22, 1920 who died on June 5, 2012 at the age of 91. Bradbury was a prolific and beloved writer who wrote many novels considered today to be staples of the science fiction genre such as Fahrenheit 451, Something Wicked This Way Comes, and The Martian Chronicles (www.biography.com). The Martian Chronicles is a collection of short stories Bradbury wrote over several years detailing the colonization of mars by humans. Present in this collection of stories are a number of themes portraying the weaknesses of mankind. In these stories are tales of corporate greed, mental illness, religious zealotry, gullible ignorance,†¦show more content†¦It would be one thing if all of humanity were totally oblivious to the moral infractions they imposed but that is not the case. All throughout the book we see desenters of the hyper capitalistic regime be silenced. Early on in the book Spender gets gunned down as a result of his trying to pr otect the planet from future human â€Å"invasions† and the eventual commercialization of mars (pg.45). In Usher II we see Mr.Garett brutally murdered by Stendahl’s automata for morally opposing his amusement attraction (pg.167). This is what makes Bradbury’s message so powerful. Not only are humans poisoning something once beautiful but those who oppose it are disposed of in brutal, cold, Soviet fashion. Another way Bradbury highlights the flaws of humanity is through the way he contrasts the Martians with Humans. In the beginning of the book he shows Mars as a gleaming, pristine society. Martian society has flawed elements like Earth. They have mentally ill, violent crime, and social outcasts like humans. But as a whole they are respectful to their environment prosperous and an idealyc utopian society. He then contrast the sharply a couple stories later with the beginning of the evils of humanity. On captain Wilder’s mission the crew land on Mars and Lasiter 3 immediately begin drinking and littering. Biggs even goes so far as to intentionally toss his empty bottles into a martian canal as a pathetic show of dominance over the planet. By the end of the book both societies areShow MoreRelatedPerhaps We Are Going Away by Ray Bradbury839 Words   |  3 PagesGovernment, â€Å"Bradburys works form a sustained critique of American imperialism, both historical and contemporary. In Perhaps We Are Going Away (1964), two Indians, an elderly man and a boy, sense something in the air telling them their world has suddenly changed forever. They go looking for the cause of this feeling and find it in a lonely-looking encampment of white men along the seashore, the first Europeans they have ever seen. And in The Martian Chronicles, a Cherokee astronaut specifically linksRead MoreLogical Reasoning189930 Words   |  760 PagesState the claim, and identify the source. 7. The more shocking or bizarre the claim, the more apt you should be to demand more and better evidence for it. a. true b. false123 9. Which is more improbable, a claim that Martians are attacking Earth, or a claim that Martians are attacking Earth and that the next U.S. president will be a woman? Say why. 10. Suppose the following paragraph had appeared in a news story on the web pages of the Washington Post, the major daily newspaper of Washington

Research Methods Quantitative Versus

Question: Discuss about theResearch Methodsfor Quantitative Versus. Answer: Quantitative Versus Qualitative Research So many definitions have been put forward to give the meaning of either quantitative or qualitative research. A definition by (Judd, 2011) puts it that, quantitative research is explaining phenomena by collecting numerical data that are analyzed using mathematically based methods and in particular statistics. To reinforce his definition it can be concluded that any approach that uses mathematical or numerical technique in data collection is categorized as quantitative research. In this type of research only data which is measurable is collected and therefore means that the data collected is usually numerical (May, 2011). The advantage of quantitative research has is that it can allow collection of large data but still appear cheap. It also upholds consistency. Regardless of how many times it is done the result will always be the same unlike in qualitative research where interpretation of information varies from one interviewer to another. Qualitative research on the other hand collects data through measuring of feelings, observations, views and opinions (Munhall, 2008). Qualitative research describes but does not quantify phenomena.It is very subjective as it involves the employment of the five senses; that is hearing, observation and sometimes feelings. Because of this, qualitative research is sometimes not accurate as the result depends on an individual interpretation and not figures. Researchers say that qualitative research is exhaustive in nature since it deals with first -hand information but its main undoing is that compared to quantitative research approach is that it cannot allow collection of large amount of data since it is expensive. Sampling Techniques used in Quantitative and Qualitative Research There are several sampling techniques that can be used in qualitative or quantitative research. They are categorized into two; Probability sampling Non probability sampling. Probability sampling employs randomization to make sure that each element in a population has got an equal chance of being selected. They include the following; Random sampling Stratified sampling Systematic sampling Cluster random sampling Multi-stage random sampling Non- probability sampling on the other hand refers to sampling method where randomization is not required (Janice, 2003). It is usually applicable only where a representative sample is needed. They include the following; Accidental sampling Expert sampling Snowball sampling Purposive sampling Modal sampling. Random sampling technique is always not the best sampling method especially in qualitative research. This is because in qualitative research is always geared to get right information from individuals of interest (Ray, 2000). And to get the right individual with the characteristics he or she wants, a random sampling method might end up with a sample with individuals who are not of interest. Research Problem There is a practice that is almost being embraced by the young Chinese multinational companies. The practice hinders growth in that it does not allow for sharing of information. In a business setting, staff should adopt an operating system where people share knowledge to solve day to day business challenges. For example having a lateral kind of information flow system allows for spread of knowledge across all level while top-down style of communication limits the spread of knowledge thereby letting only a handful staff to gain this knowledge. So the research problem is working practices in Chinese multinational companies which do not encourage flow of knowledge across hinders business growth of only in china but also globally. Research Objective The main objective of this research study proposal will be to evaluate the extent to which young multinational companies in china implement the practice of international business transfer knowledge. It seeks to know whether this practice is being implemented or not, and if yes it is being implemented, to what extent are they doing so? Is it to the extent that it can encourage transfer of knowledge efficiently? Data Collection The research study will employ the use of primary methods of data collection. The first one will be the use of one-on-one or face-to-face interview. This will enable the research obtain first-hand information from top managers of the companies. The study may also employ the use of questionnaires so as to be able to collect sensitive information that staff would not reveal in a face-to-face interview (Mazur, 2007). This will also help the study collect a lot of information within a very short period of time. This research is a quantitative one since a longitudinal approach will be applied. It is longitudinal because data will be collected more than once at different times. And longitudinal approach is mostly possible in quantitative research where monitoring and evaluation is done periodically. References Janice M. (2003). A review committee's guide for evaluating qualitative proposals. Qualitative Health Research, Judd, C. M. (2002). Research methods in social relations. May, T. (2011). Social Research: Issues, Methods and Research. McGraw-Hill International. Mazur, D. J. (2007). Evaluating the science and ethics of research on humans: a guide for IRB members. Munhall, P. L. (2008). Ethical considerations in qualitative research. Western Journal of Nursing Research, 10(2), 150-162. Ray C. (2000). Influencing the policy process with qualitative research. Lincoln (eds.), Handbook of Qualitative Research, pp. 1001-1017. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.

Throughout History Marijuana Has Been Used To Serve Various Purposes I

Throughout history marijuana has been used to serve various purposes in many different cultures. The purposes have changed over time to fit in with the current lifestyles. This pattern is also true in American history. The use of marijuana has adapted to the social climate of the time. Marijuana, whose scientific name is cannibis sativa, was mentioned in historical manuscripts as early as 2700 B. C. in China. (Grolier Electronic Encyclopedia, 1995). The cultivation of the marijuana plant began as far back as the Jamestown settlers, around 1611, who used hemp produced from the marijuana plant's fibers to make rope and canvas. It was also used in making clothing because of it's durability. These uses fit in with the social climate of the time, because the main focus was on survival rather than for psychoactive purposes. During the prohibition, marijuana was widely used because of the scarcity of alcohol. Prohibition was repealed after just thirteen years while the prohibition against m arijuana lasted for more than seventy five years. This double standard may have resulted from the wishes of those in power. Alcohol prohibition struck directly at tens of millions of Americans of all ages, including many of societies most powerful members. Marijuana prohibition threatened far fewer Americans, and they had relatively little influence in the districts of power. Only the prohibition of marijuana, which some sixty million Americans have violated since 1965 has come close to approximating the prohibition experience, but marijuana smokers consist mostly of young and relatively powerless Americans (American Heritage, pg 47). Alcohol prohibition was repealed and marijuana prohibition was retained, not because scientists had proved that alcohol was the less dangerous of the various psychoactive drugs, but because of the prejudices and preferences of most Americans (American Heritage, pg 47). In 1937 the government issued the Marijuana Tax Act, which levied a dollar an ounce tax on marijuana, coupled with fines of $2,000 for drug posession and jail sentences for evasion of the tax. For this reason marijuana use in the United States appears to have gone into decline in the late 30's (Grolier Wellness Encyclopedia, pg 54). Then marijuana was outlawed in 1937 as a repressive measure against Mexican workers who crossed the border seekingjobs during the Depression. The specific reason given for the outlawing of the hemp plant was it's supposed violent "effect on the degenerate races" (Schaffer, pg. 86). Beginning in the 60's marijuana use saw a resurgence which may be attributed to many causes. One of the main causes was the rebellion of youth against the Vietnam War. They used marijuana as an escape from war to peace. It was easy at this time to depict marijuana as a beneficial and completely harmless substance whose effects were far less harmful than those of legal drugs such as alcohol and nicotine because there was not enough scientific research done d uring the 60's (Grolier Wellness Encyclopedia, pg 54). Another cause may have been the discovery of the psychoactive component of marijuana- tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC. Users found the relation between the doses and the effects (Grolier Electronic Publishing, 1995). The current atmosphere provides for doctors to suggest synthetic marijuana (THC) in a pure and standardized form by perscription (called Marinol) for the treatment of nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy. Also, although there is no scientific evidence that shows marijuana is beneficial in the treatment of glaucoma, it may prevent the progression of visual loss. Marijuana, along with alcohol and a host of other substances, can actually lower intraocular eye pressure. The mediction however, must be carefully tailored to the individual to prevent further eye damage. The evidence has clearly shown that marijuana has been around for a great deal of time and has served multiple purposes throughout histo ry. Karen Sipes Dana Pentoney Jeni Roane Sources Grolier Electronic Encylopedia, Electronic Publishing, Inc., 1995 Grolier Wellness Encyclopedia, Drugs, Society Ethan A. Nadelmann, American Heritage Magazine, Feb-Mar, 1993. Medical Marijuana, http://www.lec.org/Drug_Watch/ Public/Documents/Med_Marijuana_Paper.htm, 1995. Throughout History Marijuana Has Been Used To Serve Various Purposes I Throughout history marijuana has been used to serve various purposes in many different cultures. The purposes have changed over time to fit in with the current lifestyles. This pattern is also true in American history. The use of marijuana has adapted to the social climate of the time. Marijuana, whose scientific name is cannibis sativa, was mentioned in historical manuscripts as early as 2700 B. C. in China. (Grolier Electronic Encyclopedia, 1995). The cultivation of the marijuana plant began as far back as the Jamestown settlers, around 1611, who used hemp produced from the marijuana plant's fibers to make rope and canvas. It was also used in making clothing because of it's durability. These uses fit in with the social climate of the time, because the main focus was on survival rather than for psychoactive purposes. During the prohibition, marijuana was widely used because of the scarcity of alcohol. Prohibition was repealed after just thirteen years while the prohibition against marijuana lasted for more than seventy five years. This double standard may have resulted from the wishes of those in power. Alcohol prohibition struck directly at tens of millions of Americans of all ages, including many of societies most powerful members. Marijuana prohibition threatened far fewer Americans, and they had relatively little influence in the districts of power. Only the prohibition of marijuana, which some sixty million Americans have violated since 1965 has come close to approximating the prohibition experience, but marijuana smokers consist mostly of young and relatively powerless Americans (American Heritage, pg 47). Alcohol prohibition was repealed and marijuana prohibition was retained, not because scientists had proved that alcohol was the less dangerous of the various psychoactive drugs, but becau se of the prejudices and preferences of most Americans (American Heritage, pg 47). In 1937 the government issued the Marijuana Tax Act, which levied a dollar an ounce tax on marijuana, coupled with fines of $2,000 for drug posession and jail sentences for evasion of the tax. For this reason marijuana use in the United States appears to have gone into decline in the late 30's (Grolier Wellness Encyclopedia, pg 54). Then marijuana was outlawed in 1937 as a repressive measure against Mexican workers who crossed the border seekingjobs during the Depression. The specific reason given for the outlawing of the hemp plant was it's supposed violent "effect on the degenerate races" (Schaffer, pg. 86). Beginning in the 60's marijuana use saw a resurgence which may be attributed to many causes. One of the main causes was the rebellion of youth against the Vietnam War. They used marijuana as an escape from war to peace. It was easy at this time to depict marijuana as a beneficial and completely harmless substance whose effects were far less harmful than those of legal drugs such as alcohol and nicotine because there was not enough scientific research done during the 60's (Grolier Wellness Encyclopedia, pg 54). Another cause may have been the discovery of the psychoactive component of marijuana- tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC. Users found the relation between the doses and the effects (Grolier Electronic Publishing, 1995). The current atmosphere provides for doctors to suggest synthetic marijuana (THC) in a pure and standardized form by perscription (called Marinol) for the treatment of nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy. Also, although there is no scientific evidence that shows marijuana is beneficial in the treatment of glaucoma, it may prevent the progression of visual loss. Marijuana, along with alcohol and a host of other substances, can actually lower intraocular eye pressure. The mediction however, must be carefully tailored to the individual to prevent further eye damage. The evidence has clearly shown that marijuana has been around for a great deal of time and has served multiple purposes throughout history. Sources Grolier Electronic Encylopedia, Electronic Publishing, Inc., 1995 Grolier Wellness Encyclopedia, Drugs, Society & Behavior. Vol. 3, 1992. Ethan A. Nadelmann, American Heritage Magazine, Feb-Mar, 1993. Medical Marijuana, http://www.lec.org/Drug_Watch/ Public/Documents/Med_Marijuana_Paper.htm, 1995

Social Darwinism essays

Social Darwinism essays In his most famous book On the Origin of Species, Darwin included four major arguments: that new species appear; that these new species have evolved from older species; that the evolution of species is the result of natural selection; and "that natural selection depends upon variations and the maintenance of variation in spite of the tendency of natural selection to eliminate 'unfit' variants" (403). After Charles Darwin published On the Origin of Species in 1859, Herbert Spencer(1820-1903) took hold of Darwin's theory of natural selection and applied it to society as well as evolution. He strayed from biology to society. Spencer's ideas became known as Social Darwinism. The theory of natural selection holds that only the most well-adapted individuals in a population will survive and reproduce. These successful individuals pass on their adaptive advantage to their offspring. Over many generations, the process ensures the adaptation of the entire population to its environment. This holds true in the jungle, but it was Spencer who coined the phrase "survival of the fittest" to describe the competition among human individuals and groups. He argued that human progress resulted from the triumph of more advanced individuals and cultures over their inferior competitors. Wealth and power were seen as signs of inherent "fitness," while poverty was taken as evidence of natural inferiority. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Social Darwinism was used to argue for unrestrained economic competition and against aid to the "unfit" poor. The theory was also used to justify racist and imperialist policies in Europe and the United States. Social Darwinist ideas fell from grace in the early 20th century; Herbert Spencer's reputation as a philosopher and social theorist toppled with it. Spencer once wrote of society. These are the traits that societies have in common with organic bodies. And these traits in which they agree with organic bodi...

Environmental Science Lab Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Environmental Science Lab - Assignment Example This is because of production of commercial livestock, and processing of the same, which consumes so many resources and emits carbon. Secondly, the choice of natural foods, which are grown organically influences the environment positively, and is a good reflection on my health. This is because organic farming practices are designed to reduce pollution from chemicals like herbicides and pesticides, and ensure soil and water preservation. Eating habits, at times ignored may have grave results on the environment. Due to my busy schedule that demands that I spend a lot of time outside home, I balance between eating out and eating from home. However, I find that I mostly eat out during the weekdays when I have to be in town. During the evenings and weekends, I prefer eating at home.   King Corn Movie was a development from two new graduates from Yale University, who decided to trace the roots of the food they had known and used for many years. The movie challenges one to think through the consequences of U.S agricultural policies, our own eating habits and the intersection between the two. Initial bills and policies were meant to keep family farmers on the land without flooding the market with cheap crops. This has been reversed by introduction of rewards for all-output production. For farmers to achieve such output, they need to use heavy machinery on vast lands and huge usage of fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, which discourages small farmers interested in any farming. This could be reversed by re-introduction of initial bills that valued quality other than quantity. 3. Ian points out that in his great grandfather’s day, 40-bushel-an-acre harvests were considered excellent. Today that same acre produces 180 bushels. The film suggests that this modern efficiency might be contributing to â€Å"overproduction† of food. Do you agree? Is it possible to produce too much?   I agree that the modern

Impact of multimedia in learning English as a second language Literature review

Impact of multimedia in learning English as a second language - Literature review Example Meanwhile, learning happens as a process rather than an event. This means that for the acquisition of second language to take place, there are series of things that a person should do, as learning a second language will not happen overnight. Mayer (2003) used the cognitive theory to explain the processes that take place in the course of second language acquisition. It was noted that the more interaction a person has with the language being learnt, the better the chances of acquiring it more easily and quickly. Meanwhile, the interactions that a person has with language often differ in potency and impact. For example using the multimedia principle, Mayer (2003, p. 33) explained that ‘the human information processing system contains an auditory/verbal channel and a visual/pictorial channel’. By implication, a person gets an easier grip of a particular language being learnt if provisions are made for all of auditory, verbal, visual and pictorial channels. However, using multimedia such as audio and video easily provides all these channels at a go (Neal, 2006). Based on this, when designing a website for acquisition of English as a second language, it will be beneficial to include audio and video files that wil l provide multimedia learning platforms, rather than use only written and verbal means of acquisition. Neal, L. (2006). Predictions for 2006 — E-learning experts map the road ahead. Elearn Magazine [online]. Available at http://www.elearnmag.org/subpage.cfm?section=articles&article=31-1 [accessed 13 February

Alaskan Airlines †Strategic Choice and Evaluation Essay Example for Free

Alaskan Airlines – Strategic Choice and Evaluation Essay Recognizing an organization’s alternatives for growth is an important process for companies. By evaluating and selecting the competitive advantages within a market a company can distinguish themselves from their competition. For an organization the â€Å"grand strategies indicate the time period over which long-range objectives are to be achieved. Thus, a grand strategy can be defined as a comprehensive general approach that guides a firm’s major actions† (Pearce Robinson, 2011). Alaskan Airlines is a company that is known for their innovations and leadership within in the aviation industry. Alaskan Airlines is easily identifiable because of the smiling Eskimo on the tail of their aircraft. Their leadership and innovations in technology have seen them be the first to sell tickets online and allow customers to check-in and print boarding passes via the Internet. Alaskan Airlines has also innovated technologies to allow for safer air travels in inclement weather conditions. In the aviation market, Alaskan Airlines must focus on how to maintain their status as the air carrier with the next generation technology and low cost airfares. As air carriers compete for the consumer dollar Alaskan Airlines must strategically execute growth strategies. Generic Strategy Alaskan Airlines is known for its high standard of customer service and industry innovation. The company sustains market leadership by leveraging generic strategy. Alaskan Airlines managed the generic strategy in all the three areas, which includes: 1. Low-cost Leadership – Alaska Airlines must be able to offer low-cost through low overhead and high productivity to compete with low-fare competitors. This will enable the company to offer an exceptional quality service at competitive prices compared to the competitors. 2. Differentiation – Alaskan Airlines has remained a leader in the customer service industry by revolutionizing the services offered to the customer. Alaskan Airlines in the only air carrier that offers a Baggage Service Guarantee that states that the customer will receive their bags within 20 minutes of parking at the gate. If the Alaskan Airlines goes over the 20 minutes the customer will receive a 20-dollar discount code for on future flights. 3. Focus One of the major focuses of Alaskan Airlines is their customer service value and the company uses that to generate success. Alaskan Airlines knew customer service was important to customers and strove to deliver world-class service. The consumers want great customer service, which is safe, and at a competitive price. The accomplishments of Alaskan Airlines are ascribed to strategic plans applied to generate the culture and service offered. The best direction for the grand strategy of Alaskan Airlines is to implement product development and innovation. Alaskan Airlines has established loyal customers based on their quality of service and value. It is a trusted brand that thrives in customer service, safety, and value. The goal of this strategy is to continue the success of the outstanding service and innovations in aviation technologies. Innovation through â€Å"product development involves the substantial modification of existing products or the creation of new but related products that can be marketed to current customers through established channels† (Pearce, 2011, p. 193). Innovation is another grand strategy used throughout Alaskan Airlines. A recent example of Alaskan Airlines implementing this strategy is, in conjunction with the FAA, â€Å"working to implement quieter, more fuel-efficient arrival routes into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The routes use satellite-based technology, namely Required Navigation Performance (RNP) and Optimized Profile Descent—two key pieces of the FAA’s â€Å"NextGen† air traffic management system† (Alaska Air, 2012, pg. 3). Attaining the long-term business goals for Alaskan Airlines has been focused in increasing the quality of the flying customer experience. Alaskan Airlines consistently strives to provide the best customer experience to the consumer through consumer feedback. Alaska Airlines was the first airlines to use Internet technologies to enhance the customer service experience through their online check-in and ability to print boarding passes. The grand strategy is delivered through a final marketing strategy; Alaskan Airlines currently services over 60 cities and three countries, has a pro-active program in place to reduce emissions from jet engines, an extensive recycling program at facilities and is developing/using technologies to fly more economical routes. Recently Colgan Air decided not fly offer service from Presque to Logan International, PenAir a partner of Alaskan Air decided to provide the service at a $115 round trip. This gives Alaskan Airlines the ability to provide customers with outstanding service while becoming a better global citizen. Recommendation Alaskan Airlines, through the leadership of Brad Tilden, has been able to provide renowned customer service within in the industry and has been a leader in the innovation of technologies that can be used for the betterment of the aviation industry. The recommendation is to follow the current business model of customer service to preserve the customer positive customer experience. Alaskan Airlines should also focus on the environmental portion of the aviation industry by using more Green practices such and wind farms, more robust recycling programs and using more fuel-efficient aircraft and bio-fuel. Alaskan Airlines has very loyal patronage and through the expansion of new routes and more cities, more consumers will be able to experience flying on Alaskan Airlines. Conclusion Alaskan Airlines must build upon an already successful customer service program, continued improvement to the fleet of aircraft and to furthering the technologies used within the aviation industry. References Lynds, J. (2012, Jun 15). Alaskan Airline debuts services in Presque Isle. Bangor Daily News. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1020684161?accountid=35812 Pearce, J. A., II, Robinson, R. B. (2011). Strategic Management: Formulation, Implementation, and Control (12th ed.). Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill/Irwin.