Monday, September 30, 2019

Ethical issues regarding stem cell research Essay

One of the recent significant breakthroughs in the field of biomedicine is the discovery, isolation and the ultimate culturing of stem cells from human embryos. The stem cells which are isolated form embryos are unique in that they are able to self renew and still retain capacity to differentiate too many forms of tissue cells. Cultured embryonic stem cells also have the potential of being developed to make regenerative medicine which can be used to treat fatal or debilitating conditions which while treated with normal prescriptions they are not curable. The embryonic stem cells are also capable of prolonging lives of individuals. Despite their potential to cure otherwise incurable diseases and to prolong lives, this discovery has led to questions regarding the value of life. While harvesting or extracting the embryonic stem cells, there are high possibilities of destroying the embryos thus bringing to an end possible human life. The question which arises is whether the lives of these possible human lives should be sacrificed for the improvement of the already existing human beings (Mcgee & Caplan, para 2-3). Ethical issues regarding stem cell research One of the major ethical dilemmas facing the embryonic research is the tension created between two moral principles which are highly esteemed. One of the moral principles entails prevention and also alleviation of pain and suffering while the other principle highly regards the value of life. Moral ethics requires people to respect and value human life and also to eliminate pain or possibilities of suffering in individuals. During extraction of embryonic stem cells, there are high possibilities of destroying the embryo thus destroying a possible life. However, such activities have the potential of alleviating pain and curing some of the diseases which are terminal. As such, embryonic stem cells fulfill the moral principle of alleviating and improving the medical conditions of individuals (Rickard, Para 5). However, despite the above possible advantages, destruction of embryos during stem cells harvesting is a violation of the second moral principle which deals with the value of human life. As noted earlier, embryos harvesting results in their destruction thus destruction of life. Life is said to begin when fertilization takes place thus embryos are living things and thus destroying them would amount to destruction of life or devaluation of the value of life. The two moral principles cannot be respected simultaneously as fulfilling one would amount to violation of the other. This raises a conflict as to which principle should be given more weight. Should improvement of and alleviation of suffering be considered first thus permit stem cell research which is destructive or should this research be prohibited due to its destructive nature and violation of the value of human life? This is a major ethical issue which faces this research and which has led to sharp differences in the biomedical field (Shapiro, para 7). Another ethical issue surrounding the stem cell research is based on the intention behind the creation of embryos. Ethics is mainly based or evaluated in terms of the motive and intention behind an action. People opposed to stem cell research argue that it should only be permissible to create embryos if they are meant for reproductive purposes. Creating embryos only to be destroyed for research purposes is impermissible as this would lead to intentional destruction of human life. However, researchers argue that while they create embryos for reproductive functions, they create them in excess and most of them are just discarded. As such, instead of discarding them, such embryos can be used for research and also to help in the formation of medicine for the terminal illnesses. Ethical issues arise between the significance of creation of embryos for reproduction versus for research purposes (Gruen, Grabel & Singer, pp 134). Viability of embryos debates also raises some ethical issues concerning the stem cell research. The viability of embryos is based on the notion that some embryos though they develop, they do not develop to certain stages and thus are only discarded. As such, they should be used to alleviate, alleviate and improve the lives of already existing human beings. Embryos after they are created awaiting reproduction, they develop to certain stages after which they can only be discarded if taken up for reproduction functions. Instead of discarding them, some researchers argue that they should be used for research purposes which would yield more benefits. Ethical questions however arise as to whether researchers would not deliberately create more embryos than required to use them for their research in the name of their non viability (Williams, & Johnson, para 9). Conclusion Stem cell research has led to controversial debates which are based on the ethical and moral issues regarding life and its value. While some people feel that this research should be used to help in developing medicine for alleviating suffering to terminally ill individuals, others feel that allowing this research would only lead to destruction of possible human life. However, the question of the embryos which are discarded after they become non viable for production purposes also arises. Moral judgment on whether non viable embryos should be discarded instead of being used for research which could be of greater impact forms a major debate. While deciding on whether stem cell research should be allowed or prohibited, all possible impacts on the social status should be considered. The benefits of the research should be weighed against the negative impacts before reaching and agreement. The surrounding circumstances should also be considered while debating on the stem cell research. Work cited: Gruen Lori, Grabel Laura & Singer Peter: Stem Cell Research: The Ethical Issues. (2007). Published by Blackwell. ISBN 1405160624 Mcgee, Glenn & Caplan, Arthur L. : Stem Cell Research. (2001). Journal article of The Hastings Center Report, Vol. 31 Rickard, Maurice: Key Ethical Issues in Embryonic Stem Cell Research. (2002). Retrieved on 10th March 2009 from, http://www. aph. gov. au/library/pubs/CIB/2002-03/03cib05. pdf. Shapiro, Robyn S. : Bioethics and the Stem Cell Research Debate. (2006). Journal article of Social Education, Vol. 70 Sherlock, Richard & Morrey, John D. : Ethical Issues in Biotechnology. (

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Partnership and Norms Essay

Partner selection and dating is an imperative basis in an individual’s accomplishment of one of his psychosocial needs. Selecting a partner and the process of dating is crucial in determining the quality and nature of future relationships and marital decisions. According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, as represented by a pyramid which indicates the basic needs of man and its importance in self-actualization, the third most significant need of man is the need to belong and be loved by others (Huitt, 2004). An individual’s need to become an accepted and valuable part of society, and the need to affiliate with people of the opposite sex, is an innate characteristic of man. Therefore, selecting a partner becomes an important decision that one must make based on the most convenient choice. These choices, however, vary under various circumstances, as it is influenced by society, culture, priorities, experiences, etc. For instance, differing concepts and perceptions about love vary for individuals; therefore their decisions in selecting a partner also vary. One’s concept of love, dating, partner selection, relationship, marriage, etc. may be influenced by social factors. Society often dictates standards and norms of dating. For example, individuals who live in a society which values social status and the preservation of this particular position in society practices arranged marriages. This is usually true, especially during the age of kingdoms and monarchs. Partner selection and dating may also be influenced by culture. In ancient China, marrying individuals from different cultural backgrounds was forbidden. In this case, race and cultural compatibility becomes influential in choosing a partner. At present, however, choosing a partner and the rules of dating have changed and have evolved into a more liberal milieu. Individuals have acquired the freedom to choose partners and date, depending on their personal views and perceptions of love, relationship, and marriage as formed by their priorities and experience, such as emphasizing importance on educational attainment, occupational status, etc. These choices and priorities are backed up theories which explains once social and personal construct regarding the matter. For instance, idolizing a parent influences individuals to choose partners with characteristics similar to their parents, etc. There are a lot of significant information that pertains to partner selection and dating (Mohatta, 2006), however, the main point is that choices and decisions being made regarding an individual’s selection of a partner, setting up of dating rules and principles to live by, reasons for staying in or leaving a relationship, going into marriage, etc. vary depending on several factors, such as culture, environment, society, family, personal choices and experiences, priorities, etc. Similar to partner selection and dating, sexual norms and sexual relationships also vary depending on one’s culture and perceptions. Two different societies were mentioned and described in the lecture which greatly explains the variation between these two societies regarding sexual norms and practice. The main argument stated herein is that an individual’s concept and perception of sex is learned from the society where he belongs. This is proved by the obvious knowledge that children, as young as they are, do not understand nor have ideas and contributions pertaining to issues and discussions regarding sex. Therefore, individuals gather the idea, perception, meaning, and importance of sex from the environment. For instance, a family environment which is not open about the idea of talking about sex with their children because members of the family regard it as a wrong deed is passed on to their children. In contrast, a society open to sex education, especially in educational institutions, allows students to acquire knowledge about sexual norms and practices, leading them to become aware of all its aspects. This can be important in informing students about sexually transmitted diseases, teenage pregnancy, safe sex, etc. With these alarming issues, most especially the high rate of individuals who acquire AIDS from numerous sexual encounters, or teenagers facing the responsibility of motherhood and parenting, more societies are accepting and pushing for the administration of sexual education in educational institutions. On the other hand, religious institutions are battling this societal move by reiterating their disapproval of the use of contraceptives, as encouraged by sex education, based on religious teachings and principles (Villaviray-Giolagon, 2007). Therefore, students who absorb information learned from sexual education may start to become open-minded about sexual responsibility; while on the other hand, churchgoers strengthen their stand for abstinence and marriage before sexual interaction. These two opposing viewpoints from educational institution and the religious institutions illustrate how an individual’s idea and perception of sexual norms and sexual relationships vary depending on environment.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Email Messages Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Email Messages - Essay Example In line with this, an organization will require email etiquette to ensure professionalism, efficiency and protection from liability such as costly law suits as a result of bad language (Swinton). There are a few guidelines of how to write a good business email. First of all use a language that is official so that both parties understand the message communicated. The message you are trying to convey is concise and straight to the point. This helps to avoid time wastage for the reader. While writing ensure proper spelling, grammar and punctuation, avoid writing in capitals and go through the message to identify mistakes before sending it. It is good to always include the subject of your communication so that the recipient easily knows what to expect in the message. Always use a polite tone, be personal but formal (Swinton). While replying to business emails make sure that you are prompt, answer all questions asked by the customer. Avoid sending attachments unless asked by the recipient of the email. Do not leave out the email thread when writing as it shows the previous message which you are replying to. Do not use fancy fonts in your writing unless communicating graphics (Appleman 20-40). These are the basic issues that one should consider in all business emails in order to foster good understanding and trust between businesses or a client and an organization. Swinton, Lyndsay. "10 Tips for writing business emails that say the right thing about you." 2010. Management For The Rest of Us. 27 September 2011

Friday, September 27, 2019

Programable logic controllers (PLC) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Programable logic controllers (PLC) - Essay Example On its site, Wikipedia says a PLC is used for the automation of electromechanical processes for example controlling factory machinery or running amusement rides. It says that its function is unlike a computer that is built for a general purpose, and that it is designed to accommodate multiple inputs and output arrangements, resistant to vibrations, impact or temperature changes. The controlling programs are generally stored in a non-volatile memory as these controllers operate in different kinds of environment, fitted into machines where the controlling program must be kept stable at all times. They are designed for real-time use and are often subjected to extreme environments where it cannot afford to malfunction; its circuitry keeps a check on multiple sensor inputs which control the output actuators, for example, solenoids, lights and valves (Blacharski, 2003). The first Programmable Logic Controller to be developed was by General Motors in 1968 when its Hydramatic Division wanted to counter the soaring costs involved in the existing inflexible relay-controlled systems. The starting PLCs had relay functionality, substituting the traditional hard-wired relay logic which used electrically run devices to mechanically switch circuits. They offered a lot of advantage as they were far easier to use in an industry; the installation wasn’t tough, they needed less space and they were re-usable. The benefit of PLCs quickly caught on to other businesses like food, beverage and manufacturing and by 1971, they were providing relay replacement which was the first step to contr ol automation (Bryan and Bryan 1997, 16-18). The CPU, consisting of the processor, memory system and the power supply runs all PLC activities. The I/O system is physically connected to devices used in the control of a process or machine and its interface provides the connection between the CPU, the information providers

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Human Resource Case Studies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Human Resource Case Studies - Essay Example The precise relationship between job perception and job satisfaction (indeed, the very direction of the relationship) is not altogether clear, although there is clear evidence of a linkage. The weakness of decentralized training is lack of unified approach to training (each store and supervisor teach different skills). In future, the employee will have to retrain applying to a new job or a new fast food company. Small companies can provide employees who are parents or have working spouses with flexible working hours and job sharing. As for working schedules, the indications are sparse, but they do suggest that rotating shifts can have deleterious effects on employees and that a flexible time schedule is more likely to improve satisfaction (or outcomes associated with satisfaction) than job performance. Good effects, along with some counterbalancing adverse effects, from the use of flexible have been reported in regard to recruitment and retention, work readiness, overtime, time off, and skill-broadening. Productivity improvement has been reported when flexible provided for more efficient utilization of scarce resources by employees. Work schedules can have a negative impact on quality of family life in the case of nonstandard work days, shift work, and long hours. The claims made by the union are objective and important for employees. Any company has a right to interrogate employees concerning their union activities, or threat employees to disclosure identities of other union members. The claims made by the union shows that there is dissatisfaction which could be handled by both unions and employers through the mechanism of union-voices, and the second is dissatisfaction which could not be handled by them, and which would thus lead workers to eave the firm eventually. The problem is that the union members and employees do not inform the company management about telephone calls and communication inside the

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

VoIP Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

VoIP - Essay Example â€Å"IP telephony, Internet telephony, Voice over Broadband (VoBB), broadband telephony, and broadband phone are few other terms that can be used as an alternative of VoIP† (Davidson, 2007). Communication services such as SMS, voice messaging, facsimile etc. are the few examples of VoIP that uses the internet as a mode of transmission instead of PSTN (public switched telephone network) nowadays. According to an analysis made by analysts in the past few years, it has come into limelight that a proportion of 20 % of businesses in U.S. have brought VoIP into practice and this fraction is likely to accelerate in the upcoming years (Wallingford, 2005). In this modern era of breakthroughs, where VoIP has experienced a boom in the field of commerce, one of its prime examples includes ANSR, Inc. A small company, located in Midwestern U.S. that initiated its business as e-Marketing and real estate across the country with a wide spread employment network. Due to fast-moving business, s oon it necessitated system, which could address to its increasing communication requirements for its strewn workforce. However, ANSR also needed complete packaged phone related software that could integrate the two diverse branches of its business working in correlation at one place.

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Fear of Failure Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Fear of Failure - Research Paper Example Moreover, this social self also secretly cherishes to be approved, acknowledged and be deemed as a success. Thus, many people are apprehensive of failure because through their unparalleled achievements, they want to quench the craving of their social selves. The correlation between fear of failure and conditional self-esteem: From childhood onwards, we are exposed to the belief that, love, rewards, happiness and recognition can only coexist with success and achievement. Failure on the other hand is juxtaposed with, dismissal, rejection and disapproval. During the adolescence years, this belief is time and again reaffirmed- both in the classroom setting as well as within one’s domestic domain. For instance, children who are considered as high achievers are often showered with more love, attention and encouragement- both by teachers as well as by parents. Consequently, a child’s self-esteem and self-regard becomes rigidly dependent on his achievement in either academic or social endeavours. This conditional self-esteem is carried into adulthood as well and constantly gives negative feed-back to the individual regarding his so-called failures.

Monday, September 23, 2019

Counselling psychology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Counselling psychology - Essay Example Person centred therapy is closer to being a pure form of therapy as compared to psychodynamic therapy. The credit for developing this approach is given to the noted psychologist, Carl Rogers, who came from the humanist tradition. For the most part, this approach to therapy can be considered counselling since the idea in this approach is for the therapist to create a personalised relationship with the individual that is receiving therapy. Rogers () himself has suggested that, â€Å"The more the therapist is himself or herself in the relationship, putting up no professional front or personal facade, the greater is the likelihood that the client will change and grow in a constructive manner (Rogers, 1980, Pg. 115)†. In fact, Carl Rogers wanted the therapy sessions to be a journey of discovery for both the therapist and the patient in which they come to a realisation where patients can help themselves come to terms with their psychological problems. With this approach, the patient is pointed towards the idea of personal growth that connects itself with the future and the present situation of the patient rather than events that happened in the past. Therapy is given through verbal communications and is non-directive since the patient is allowed to express feelings and emotions while the therapist helps him/her in understanding why these emotions or feelings are coming through (Rogers, 1980). Person centred therapy has a two pronged approach to managing psychological issues. The first is to improve the patient’s level of self-esteem through therapy and positive communication while the second is to create a greater openness to new experiences. This form of therapy also seeks to create related changes such as a deeper connection between the patients idealized self and actual self. It also seeks to create an improved understanding of the self-image, lowered levels of defensive behaviour and to improve the quality of the relationships the client has with others

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Business Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Business Strategy - Essay Example This will range from an individual to an organisation. A contractor of a construction project can subcontract the electricity wiring to the subcontractor. Recommendation as a subcontractor or main contractor The amount of resources available would determine whether a company or an individual can be the main contractor or the subcontractor. The private family owned company would be better off operating as a sub contractor rather than a main contractor or even carrying out both the activities of the main contractor and the subcontractor. The operations of the company as evidenced by the financial statements indicate large amounts of sum that has been used to transact the liabilities. As much as the liabilities still run lower than the assets, the margin is very small and would not guarantee that the company will not incur losses soon. A company would consider being a main contractor or a subcontractor depending on the balance between the assets and liabilities. This financial statement is important to determine the profitability and the liquidity of the company. A subcontractor may decide to operate so not only because of the limit of resources but because the subcontractor is more specialised in a given section of the contract than the main contractor. The company’s decision to become a main or subcontractor should be based on the health and safety of the employees and workers of the organisation which would have been provided to give a judgement that is based on all the factors that affect the operation of the compan

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Micronutrient Chart Essay Example for Free

Micronutrient Chart Essay Complete the table below. For each micronutrient listed, describe its function and identify common food sources. Then, review your Personal One-Day Intake Log and identify foods that provide substantial amounts of micronutrients. You do not need to identify every micronutrient found in every piece of food. List those foods in the My Food Choices column corresponding to the micronutrients they contain. Please answer each of the following questions with a maximum of 200 words. 1. What micronutrients are missing from your diet? What foods, that you enjoy, could you eat to supply these nutrients? 2. Micronutrient deficiencies can have many negative effects on your health. What long-term effects can you anticipate if your current deficiencies continue? General Questions General General Questions Resources: iProfile and WileyPLUS ® Read the instructions in the University of Phoenix Material: Micronutrient and Fast Food Presentation located on the student website to complete this assignment.   If you are having trouble making friends on campus, get involved in a club or two. Find any organized activity that you are interested in, and you will automatically be spending time with other students who share at least one of your passions. It can be helpful to have friends who are fellow students but not your immediate classmates. This archive file of SCI 220 Micronutrient Chart comprises: Complete the table below. For each micronutrient listed, describe its function and identify common food sources. Then, review your Personal One-Day Intake Log and identify foods that provide substantial amounts of  micronutrients. You do not need to identify every micronutrient found in every piece of food. List those foods in the My Food Choices column corresponding to the micr Click this link Now for Complete Course https://bitly.com/12C5XsD If you are having trouble making friends on campus, get involved in a club or two. Find any organized activity that you are interested in, and you will automatically be spending time with other students who share at least one of your passions. It can be helpful to have friends who are fellow students but not your immediate classmates. General Questions General General Questions Resources: iProfile and WileyPLUS ® Read the instructions in the University of Phoenix Material: Micronutrient and Fast Food Presentation located on the student website to complete this assignment.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Strain Gauge Laboratory Exercise

Strain Gauge Laboratory Exercise An investigation into the effects of electronic circuits on the accuracy of weight measurement and how these results relate to material properties Instrumentation systems are necessary in industry to provide accurate and reliable measurements of various quantities, as well as monitoring and controlling processes. In this experiment, strain gauge sensors were attached to a cantilever beam upon which a varying load was applied and the output voltage recorded in order to estimate the mass of an unknown object. This was done for four separate electrical circuits, involving potential dividers and Wheatstone bridges, to compare their respective accuracies in measuring the unknown mass. The obtained results were also used to calculate an estimate for the Youngs Modulus of the steel beam, which was found to be 46.6 GPa. This differed greatly from the expected value of 200 GPa due to the irregular thickness of the beam, which affected the calculated results for the stress and highlighted the need to reduce sources of error before and during experiments. An instrumentation system is a collection of instruments used to measure, monitor and control a process. (1) These systems are regularly used for a variety of measurements in industries including communications, defence and engineering systems. The instrumentation systems involved in these measurement processes usually comprise of a sensor and appropriate electronic circuitry to manipulate and process the signal. Utilisation of these systems in industry is rapidly increasing as they continue to increase productivity and quality through the reduction of human error in the measurements made. The strain gauge is one of the most important sensors regarding the measurement of mechanical quantities. A strain gauge is a sensor whose resistance varies with applied force. (2) The variation in length produced by the force causes a change in electrical resistivity across the gauge which can be measured and used to calculate values of stress and strain. This report investigates the effects of different electronic circuits on the accuracy of weight measurement using strain gauge sensors on a cantilever beam and a comparison between experimental and theoretical results for Youngs Modulus. The different circuits considered are: a potential divider circuit a Wheatstone bridge circuit in quarter bridge configuration a Wheatstone bridge circuit in half bridge configuration a Wheatstone bridge and amplifier circuit A cantilever beam is a beam anchored only at one end, as shown in figure 1 below. As stated in the introduction, the application of a force on the beam alters its length which subsequently changes the strain gauge resistance. This change in resistance is given by:      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   (equation 1) where R is the resistance of the gauge, à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬  R is the change in resistance, is the gauge factor (which is 2 throughout this experiment) and ÃŽ µ is the strain. In the potential divider set up illustrated below in figure 2, the 1.5kÃŽ © resistor is in series with the strain gauge and, as the resistance across the strain gauge varies with the load applied, the voltage across the strain gauge will also change. This voltage can be measured and used to calculate the strain on the beam. Deformation to the strain gauge through the applied force generates a very small change in resistance, causing only a very small change in voltage for the masses added. For this reason, it is more accurate to measure the change in voltage instead of the overall output voltage. This can be achieved through the use of a circuit known as a Wheatstone bridge. A Wheatstone bridge contains two simple series-parallel arrangements of resistances connected between a voltage supply terminal and ground producing zero voltage difference between the two parallel branches when balanced. (3) The arrangement of this is shown in figure 3 below: For this investigation, the bridge is arranged in two different configurations, quarter bridge and half bridge, changing the number of arms made active. The bridge is originally balanced so the resistances in the lower and upper arms of each adjacent sides are equal, giving a 0V output. Therefore, a change in resistance of one of the active arms as the beam deforms gives rise to a voltage output à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬  V which can be measured through equation 2:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   (equation 2) where V is the bridge excitation voltage, R is the gauge resistance, à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬  R is the change in resistance and K = for a quarter bridge set up and for a half bridge set up. Equation 1 and equation 2 can then be combined to produce an equation for calculating the induced stress in the material:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   (equation 3) When a load W is applied to the beam, the stress at the strain gauge at distance L is given by the equation:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   (equation 4) where ÏÆ' is the surface stress, W is the applied force, L is the distance between the load and the strain gauge sensors, b is the width of the beam and t is the thickness of the beam (see figure 4). Youngs modulus can then be calculated through Hookes Law:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   (equation 5) 4.1 Apparatus The experiment was conducted using the apparatus illustrated in figure 5, as well as utilising measuring equipment described below: Cantilever beam set up as shown in figure 5, with a pair of 120kÃŽ © strain gauges attached at a distance from the free end, one above the beam and one below. Cantilever beam casing containing 2 switches to alternate between the potential divider and Wheatstone bridge circuits and then, for the latter, between quarter bridge and half bridge configuration. Masses, 100g each, to vary the load applied to the free end. Circuit board with potential divider, Wheatstone bridge and amplifier circuits set up containing potentiometers and pins to allow voltage to be measured across components. Digital Multimeter to record the output voltages of the circuit, measuring with an uncertainty of  ±0.5mV for the potential divider and  ±0.05mV for the Wheatstone bridges. Vernier caliper to measure the width and thickness of the beam, as well as the distance from the strain gauges to the load, measuring with an uncertainty of  ±0.005cm. Digital scales to calculate the actual mass of the unknown object, measuring with an accuracy of  ±0.05g. 4.2 Procedure The first electric circuit to be tested was the potential divider and therefore the switch on the cantilever beam casing was set to the corresponding place. With no load applied, the voltage across the strain gauge,, was measured. The minimum weight, 100g, was then loaded onto the beam and both the total weight and voltage across the strain gauge, , were recorded. The weight was then increased in 100g increments up to a maximum of 500g with the total weight and recorded after each mass was added. Finally, the load was removed and replaced with an unknown weight for which the voltage reading was recorded. The first switch was then changed to select the Wheatstone bridge circuit, and the second switch to choose the quarter bridge configuration. With no load applied to the beam, the excitation voltage, V, for the bridge was then measured and recorded.   This circuit contained a potentiometer which was then altered to change the resistance and ensure the initial output read 0V on the multimeter. The same procedure as for the potential divider was then carried out and the results recorded for the same differentials. The second switch was then changed to select the half bridge configuration and an identical procedure to the quarter bridge was carried out. The second switch was then changed back to the quarter bridge configuration while the circuit was changed to include a differential amplifier to increase the output voltage. The circuit is shown in figure 5 below: The same method was then followed as used for the previous Wheatstone bridge without the amplifier; however, this time, the amplified voltage was measured and recorded as opposed to the actual output voltage . Finally, after all the necessary measurements using the equipment were recorded, the unknown weight and dimensions for the beam needed to be measured in order for the results outlined in the theory section to be calculated. The digital scale was used to give a value for the unknown weight while the vernier calipers were used to measure the width, b, and thickness, t, of the beam, as well as the distance between the load and the strain gauge, L. The mass, W, added and the voltmeter measurement, V, were recorded for each circuit and collected in four tables which can be found in Appendix A. The mass values were converted from g to N and graphs of the strain gauge voltage against applied load were drawn for the four circuits. The measured voltage for the unknown mass is also included alongside the appropriate tables. 5.1 Potential Divider The unknown mass gave a reading of 1.130V. 5.2 Wheatstone Bridge The unknown mass gave a reading of 0.4mV for the quarter bridge and 0.8mV for the half bridge. 5.3 Wheatstone Bridge with Differential Amplifier The amplifier circuit increased the values recorded in figure 7 by a factor of 50. The unknown mass gave a reading of 24.2mV. 5.4 Stress against strain for the beam Using the measured values from above and inputting them into equation 4 and equation 5 respectively, a graph of stress against strain can then be plotted. Referring to equation 3, the gradient of this graph then corresponds to Youngs Modulus, which is calculated to be 46.6 GPa. 5.5 Calibration Values Weight resolution is defined as the smallest increment of weight which the numeric display, in this case the voltmeter, can indicate. (4) Each circuit used during this investigation had a different weight resolution, which was calculated by measuring the initial voltage change from no load to 100g load and comparing this to the resolution of the measuring equipment: for the potential divider, this was  ±1mV, and for the other circuits this was  ±0.1mV. For example, when the voltage in the potential divider circuit increased by 1mV, the weight increased by either 100g or 200g the potential divider does not have an absolute weight resolution as multiple load values produced the same voltage reading and therefore the weight resolution is given through a range rather than a definite value. The weight resolutions increased as expected, with the potential divider providing the least accurate measurements and the quarter bridge with differential amplifier providing the most accurate measurements. These weight measurements can be used to estimate the weight of unknown mass by multiplying the recorded voltage for the unknown mass by the weight resolution calculated. This is shown in Table 1 below: Electrical Circuit Weight Resolution Estimate for unknown mass value Potential Divider 100g-200g 113g-226g Quarter Bridge 50.0g 200g Half Bridge 25.7g 205.6g Quarter Bridge with amplifier 0.994g 241.9 g The unknown mass was measured to be 236.4g using the digital scales. As can be seen from figure 1 and figure 2 from the theory section, both the potential divider and Wheatstone bridge circuits are fitted with additional resistors, 1.5kÃŽ © and 680ÃŽ © respectively. Known as current limiting resistors, these are necessary to stop the current rising above a certain value in these circuits it is necessary to limit the current to less than 10mA, calculated by dividing the source voltage of 15V by the circuit resistance of 1.5kÃŽ © (resistor) + 240ÃŽ © (strain gauges) in the potential divider circuit, giving a current of 8.6mA. This reduces any measurement errors which could arise from an increase of the strain gauges temperature through the Joule effect, where the energy of an electric current is converted into heat as it passes through a resistive material. (5) As the circuits change from potential divider through to quarter bridge with differential amplifier, the accuracy of the measured voltages increases. This can be demonstrated through the graphs in figures 7, 8 and 9 where it can be seen that the plotted values lie progressively closer to the line of best fit with the graph for the amplifier circuit, shown in figure 9, demonstrating the least deviation from the line. Although this progression agrees with the theory, the actual values obtained differ slightly from the values expected; this is shown through the estimated values of the unknown mass recorded in Table 1. This difference could be the result of a number of factors: uncertainties in the values for the 100g masses used; the fact we are assuming a point load even though the masses provide a distribution of the weight and interference. The use of an AC current produces a small magnetic field which can cause an electromotive force in any wires that are not shielded properly. This small voltage change could be picked up by the voltmeter and slightly alter the measurements. The unknown mass was measured to be 236.4g by the digital scale. The most accurate estimate calculated by an electrical circuit was 241.9g by the Wheatstone quarter bridge with differential amplifier. The possible reasons for discrepancies between values can include the limitation of the amplifier gain due to electrical noise and temperature changes in the wire. The latter can be a problem as an increase in temperature corresponds to an increase in resistance which can affect measured values. However, this error is reduced in the half bridge configuration as, with a strain gauge sensor on both the top and bottom of the bar, the effect of temperature change cancels itself out. Finally, the Youngs Modulus value obtained through this experiment is significantly outside the expected range of 190-210 GPa, at 46.6 GPa. This can mainly be attributed to irregularities in the dimensions of the steel beam used the section of the beam where the gauges were installed was slightly smaller than the rest of the beam to allow for the necessary preparation. Referring back to equation 4 in the introduction section, the inclusion of a term shows that the thickness of the beam has the greatest effect on the calculated stress, and therefore this discrepancy in values has a significant effect on the value of Youngs Modulus calculated. To achieve a value for Youngs Modulus of 200 GPa, a thickness of 0.47cm would be required. To conclude, the experiment outlined in this report was useful in demonstrating the varying levels of accuracy of measurements which can be achieved through different forms of electrical circuits, validating the expectation that weight resolution, and therefore accuracy, would increase as the circuits progressed from a potential divider to a Wheatstone quarter bridge with differential amplifier, with the latter providing the most reliable output voltage results and the highest weight resolution. However, the result obtained for the Youngs Modulus of steel, of 46.6 GPa, through the measurements recorded in this experiment, highlights how many of the variables associated with electrical circuits have large uncertainties which can lead to extreme unreliability in the data measured and consequently the final results. The findings of this experiment are statistically insignificant due to the nature of the apparatus used compared to that used in industry. However, it does effectively illustrate the importance of reducing the effect of possible sources of error before an experiment is performed, as well as taking the time to precisely measure all of the necessary results throughout, as a slight inaccuracy in one measurement can significantly affect the final values. Mass (g) Weight (N) Voltage across Strain Gauge (V) 0 0 1.128 100 0.981 1.129 200 1.962 1.129 300 2.943 1.130 400 3.924 1.130 500 4.905 1.131 Unknown 1.130 Potential Divider Wheatstone Quarter Bridge Mass (g) Weight (N) Output Voltage (mV) 100 0.981 0.2 200 1.962 0.4 300 2.943 0.6 400 3.924 0.8 500 4.905 1 Unknown 0.4 Wheatstone Half Bridge Mass (g) Weight (N) Output Voltage (mV) 100 0.981 0.3 200 1.962 0.7 300 2.943 1.1 400 3.924 1.5 500 4.905 2.0 Unknown 0.8 Wheatstone Quarter Bridge with Amplifier Mass (g) Weight (N) Amplified Voltage (mV) 100 0.981 9.8 200 1.962 19.9 300 2.943 30.1 400 3.924 40.2 500 4.905 50.3 Unknown 24.2 [1] H. Eren and C. C. Fung, Electrical Engineering Vol.II Instrumentation Systems, Perth. [2] Omega, What is a strain gauge?, [Online]. Available: http://www.omega.co.uk/prodinfo/straingauges.html. [Accessed 17 April 2016]. [3] Electronics Tutorials Staff, Wheatstone Bridge, [Online]. Available: http://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/blog/wheatstone-bridge.html. [Accessed 17 April 2016]. [4] Precision Weighing Balances, Scale and Balance Definitions in Simple Terms, [Online]. Available: http://www.scalenet.com/applications/glossary.html. [Accessed 17 April 2016]. [5] Comsol, The Joule Heating Effect, [Online]. Available: https://www.comsol.com/multiphysics/the-joule-heating-effect. [Accessed 17 April 2016]. [6] D. R. Ngwompo, Measurements Using Strain Gauge Lab Sheet, Bath, 2016.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Jane Eyre Essays -- essays research papers

Blanche Ingram: Villain?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Blanche Ingram is the most important woman, other than Jane Eyre, in the novel. Arguably, she is the most important antagonist in this book. It is difficult to fathom how an absolutely horrid, conceited, venal, apathetic creature could be so vital to the book; but take her away, the motivation, conflict, and character itself crumbles.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Consider this synopsais: Jane Eyre has not yet come to terms with her love with Mr. Rochester. Mr. Rochester is so infatuated with Jane that he can not contain himself and is ready to proclaim his love at any moment. Mr. Rochester must somehow occupy himself until he is certain of Jane’s fervent love for him and what better way to test this than with jealousy? This feminine competitive jealousy can only be achieved by bringing in the stereotypical, perfect woman of the epoch. This woman is Blanche Ingram. Blanche produces enough tumult to spark Jane to get over her reticence and speak out to Rochester of the love she feels for him.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  A second scenario: Jane loves Mr. Rochester in her heart. She only needs something, some happenstance, where she can break through her reserve and coyness to express her feelings. Mr. Rochester brings to Thornfield a party of guests; all elegantly appareled and socially sophisticated. Hesitantly, Jane reaches the drawing room where she and Ad...

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

How does the Relative Molecular Mass change in heat combustion of an alcohol? :: GCSE Chemistry Coursework Investigation

How does the Relative Molecular Mass change in heat combustion of an alcohol? Planning Introduction ============ As alcohol burns in air it gives out energy as heat and light. I am going to investigate how the energy output of an alcohol in combustion changes, with increased relative molecular mass, or RMM. RMM is the sum of the atomic masses of every atom in the molecule. Using the alcohols: Methanol, Ethanol, Propan-1-ol, Butan-1-ol and Pentan-1-ol, I will plan, and complete an experiment that tests the prediction below. ====================================================================== Prediction And Theory ===================== In the combustion of alcohols in air, the alcohol reacts with oxygen molecules, to create carbon dioxide and water. Many bonds are broken in the process using up energy. At the same time, the atoms reforming into the new molecules of carbon dioxide and water give out energy. In the combustion of alcohols, the energy created, when forming bonds will always be more that what is lost, when breaking bonds, this gives us excess energy. This energy is given out primarily as heat, but also as light and sound. As energy is given out it is called an exothermic reaction. If the opposite were true, it would be an endothermic reaction. It is never possible to calculate exact energy change by experimentation due to inaccuracies and energy waste, so we use bond energy calculations give the exact theoretical energy change. Bond energy calculations show that the higher the RMM the more energy will be produced for the same weight of fuel (RMM is the sum of the atomic masses of every atom in the molecule). This is because as the RMM increases there are more atoms and therefore, more bonds to be broken and then made. As, when burning alcohols, this process gives out energy, the more bonds go through this process, ie as the RMM increases the more energy should be released. The calculations also suggest that for every carbon atom you add to the chain of an alcohol the energy out should increase by 618 Kj/mol. I predict then, that as the RMM goes up then the energy change will get increasingly more negative i.e. more energy is given off. The RMM will be proportional to the final energy created as both should increase by the same number each time, (RMM by 14 as one C and 2 H atoms are added, and the energy out by 618KJ/mol). This will therefore result in a straight-line on the graph. The bond energy calculations show how much energy should be released, accounting for experimental inaccuracies however, I expect the experimental output to be considerably less. Proposed Method I am going to test how the energy output per mole in the combustion of

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Mahatma Gandhi: Influence, integrity, and Tide of Social change Essay

Mahatma Gandhi- Influence, Integrity and Tide of Social Change The past has witnessed eminent men in the form of kings, political leaders and sages who made the world a better place to live. Only few were able to lead an entire nation and bring a significant change to millions. Many established power and authority and relied on the strength of armies. While, there was a man in India who explored the power of one; he raised consciousness without raising his voice. Mahatma Gandhi, a political and spiritual leader who led the way of non-violence and truth did significant contribution to humanity and people of India. Gandhi’s ultimate leadership principles and struggle set India free from 200 years old British reign. Gandhi, with his impeccable influence and integrity, brought a positive change formulating a new India. In South Africa, when Gandhi politely asked his followers to help him volunteer for the victims of pneumonic plague (in spite of knowing the risk of infection, by the contagious disease) they agreed and said, â€Å"We go where you go† (Barnabas & Clifford, 2012, p. 143,  ¶ 4). With his credibility as notable humanitarian and leader, he influenced a group of Pathans to pledge for non-violence. He worked behind the scenes willingly, without the need for constant recognition or approval from others. In South Africa, he used to walk past the president Kryer’s house in Johannesburg. One day there was a guard change; the new guard pushed and kicked Gandhi into the street. One of his influential friends saw this and asked him to go to court. Gandhi felt no resentment for the under-estimation of his self by the guard. Instead, he had forgiven his abuser. Gandhi preached forgiveness and always had the consistency in his words and actions. He practiced service-leadership and voluntary subordination. When Zulu rebellion took place, in South Africa, it injured many Zulus with no one to attend their injuries. Gandhi along with 23 of his volunteers nursed them back to health (Barnabas & Clifford, 2012). Unlike other leaders, who identified with the symbol of power, Gandhi identified with the symbol of service to humanity. He was people-centric and symbolized the people he served. Gandhi had an ability to empower people and truly believed in staff-development. He tried to mound a new free Indian who could stand on his own, to fight for freedom. Eventually, he developed a self-help culture in shining India. Wherever Gandhi went, he remained available for his followers and built real genuine relationships. He willingly spent his time with workers and carried out clerical work of the Congress office. Heath, the chairman of Indian Conciliation Group, London in 1939 wrote about Gandhi, †He is also the man of much physical work, very approachable, lovable and humorous† (Barnabas & Clifford, 2012, p. 140,  ¶ 2). With Qualities like integrity, people-centric, influence and self-discipline Gandhi brought out a positive change in people across the globe. Even though, Gandhi was the leader of the Indian National Congress on its formation, he did not seek after influential posts. Instead, when young leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru rose up he chose him his successor; even after independence he did not take any position in the government but remained humble as a servant to mankind. His deeds and fundamentals got him inscribed with golden words in the pages of history. The father of the Nation unheedingly ignited people with non-violence, truth and patriotism. References Barnabas, A., & Clifford, P. S. (2012). Mahatma gandhi- an indian model of servant leadership. International journal of leadership studies, 7(2), 132-152. Retrieved from http://www.regent.edu/acad/global/publications/ijls/new/vol7iss2/IJLS_Vol7Iss2_Barnabas_pp132-150.pdf Book, N. (n.d.). Ncert book english flamingo class xii. Retrieved from http://www.scribd.com/doc/14329823/NCERT-Book-English-Flamingo-Class-XII Court Verdict Published in Dailies: SC set aside Karnataka †¦ (n.d.). Retrieved from http://courtverdict.blogspot.com/2011/05/sc-set-aside-karnataka-mlas.html Palshikar, K. (2012). Charismatic leadership. Unpublished manuscript, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, Retrieved from http://www.unc.edu/~ketan/documents/Charismatic Leadership.pdf

Monday, September 16, 2019

Time Series

IntroductionA time series is a set of observations, xi each one being recorded at a specific time t. After being recorded, these data are rigorously studied to develop a model. This model will then be used to construct future values, in other words, to make a forecast. When looking at a time series, some questions must be asked:Does the time series have a trend or seasonality?Are their outliers? Is there constant variance over time?Essential of Good time seriesThe data must be long enough.There must be equal time gap.There must be a normal period.Example1The following plot is a time series plot of the annual number of earthquakes in the world with seismic magnitude over 7.0, for 99 consecutive years. By a time series plot, we simply mean that the variable is plotted against time.Some features of the plot:There is no trend.The mean of the series is 20.2.There is no seasonality as the data are annual data.There are no outliers.Example 2 This shows a time series of quarterly production of beer in Australia for 18 years.Some features are:There is an increasing trend. There is seasonality.There are no outliers.The Components of Time SeriesThe components of time series are factors that can bring changes to the time series:Trend component, TtWhen there is an increase or a decrease over a long period of time in the data, then we say that there is a trend. Sometimes, a trend is said to be changing direction when it goes from an increasing trend to a decreasing one. It is the result of events such as price inflation, population growth or economic changes. Seasonal component, StA seasonal pattern exists when the time series exhibits regular variations at specific time. It arises from influences such as natural conditions or social and cultural behaviors. For example, the sales of ice-cream are relatively high in summer. So, the salesman expects greater profit in summer than in winter. Cyclic component, CtIf the time series shows an up and down movement around a given period of time, it is said to have a cyclical pattern.Irregular component, ItIrregular components consist of changes that are unlikely to be repeated in a time series. Examples are floods, fires, earthquakes or cyclones.Combining the time series componentsTime series is a combination of the components which were discussed above. These components can be either combined additively or multiplicatively.Additive modelIt is linear, and the changes are made by the same amount over time.Yt = Tt + Ct + St + ItMultiplicative modelIt is non-linear such as quadratic or exponential, and the changes increase or decrease over time.Yt = Tt Ãâ€"Ct Ãâ€" St Ãâ€" ItUsesTime series can be useful in the following fields: StatisticsSignal processingEconometricsMathematical financeAstronomyEarthquake predictionsWeather forecastingImportance of Time series for businessesThere are many benefits of time series for business purposes:Helpful for study of past behaviorBusinessmen use time series to study the past behaviors and to see the trend of the sales or profit of their businesses. Helpful in forecastingTime series is a great tool for forecasting. Businesses can make a time series of the past strategies of their competitors and make an estimate of their future strategies. In this way, they make can built a better strategy and make more profits.Helpful in comparisonTime series can be used to calculate the trend of two or more branches of the same company and compare their performance. On their performances, rewards can be given. However, time series can have some limitations for a business. Sales forecasting relies on the past results to predict future expectations. But, if a company is new, there is a limited amount of data to make predictions. Even so, past results do not always indicate what the future sales will be.To fully understand this topic, we will work out this example. Example 2We will consider the actual arrival of passengers from an airport over the year 1949 to 1960. From these data, we will make a forecast.The first step is to plot the data and obtain descriptive measures such as trends or seasonal fluctuations.The second step is to check for the stationarity of the time series.StationarityA time series is said to be stationary if its mean and variance does not change over time. Obviously, not all the time series that we encounter are stationary. It is important because, most of the models we work on, assumes that the time series is stationary. If the time series has the same behavior over time, there will be a high probability that it will follow the same trend in the future.How to check for stationarity?For the graph that was plotted, we can see that it has an increasing trend with some seasonal pattern. But, it is not always evident to see whether a plot is increasing or has a seasonal trend. We can check for stationarity using the following:Plotting rolling statisticsWe plot the moving average or variance and see whether it changes with time. But, as it is a visual technique, we will take more consideration for the next test. Dickey-Fuller testIt is one of the statistical methods to check for stationarity. The null hypothesis is that the time series is non-stationary, and the alternative hypothesis is the converse.As shown below, the test consists of the test statistics and critical values at different significant levels. If the test statistics is less than the critical value, we reject the null hypothesis. Results of Dickey-Fuller Test: Test Statistic 0.815369p-value 0.991880#Lags Used 13.000000Number of Observations Used 130.000000Critical Value (1%) -3.481682Critical Value (5%) -2.884042Critical Value (10%) -2.578770According to the Dickey-Fuller test, the test statistics is less than the critical value. Therefore, the time series is not stationary. However, there are various methods to make a time series stationary.How to make a time series stationary?The assumption of stationarity is very important when modelling a time series, but most of the practical time series are not stationary. Eventually, we cannot make a time series one hundred percent stationary, most of the time, it will be with a confidence of 99%.Before going into detail, we will discuss on the reasons why the time series is not stationary. There are two major reasons to that, trend and seasonality.Having discuss the reasons, we will now talk about the techniques to make the time series stationary:TransformationLog transformation is probably the most commonly used form of transformation. DifferencingDifferencing is a widely used method to make the time series stationary. It is performed by subtracting the previous observation from the current one. When making the forecast, the process of differencing must be inverted to convert the data back to its original scale. This can be done by adding the difference value to the previous value. Using the Dickey-Fuller test we can see that the test statistic is -2.717131 and that the critical values at 1%, 5% and 10% are -3.482501, -2.884398 and -2.578960 respectivelyThe time series is stationary with 90% confidence. The second or third order differencing can be done to get better results.DecompositionIn decomposition, the time series is divided into several components mainly trend, cyclical, seasonal and irregular components. The time series can sometimes be broken down into an additive or multiplicative model.We will assume a multiplicative model for our example.Since the trend and seasonality were separated from the residuals, we can check the stationarity of the residuals.Results of Dickey-Fuller Test is test statistic is -6.332387e+00 and the critical values at 1%, 5% and 10% are -3.485122e+00, -2.885538e+00 and -2.579569e+00 respectively. We can conclude that the time series is stationary at 99% confidence.Now, we can go forward with the forecasting.Forecasting the time seriesWe will fit this time series using the ARIMA model, ARIMA is an acronym that stands for Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average. It is a linear equation similar to a linear regression. The first goal is to find the values of the predictors (p, d, q), but before finding these values, two situations in stationarity must be discussed.A strictly stationary series without any dependence among the values. In this case, we can model the residual as white noise.The second case is a series with significant dependency among the values. The predictors mainly depend on the parameters (p, d, q) of the ARIMA model:Number of AR(Auto-Regressive) terms (p)It is the number of lag observation that were included in the model. This term helps to incorporate the effect of the past values into the model.Number of MA (Moving Average) terms (q)It is the size of the moving average window, that is, this term sets the error of the model as a linear combination of the error values observed at previous time points in the past. Number of differences(d)The number of times that the raw observations are differenced.In order to obtain the values of p and q, we will use the following two plots:Autocorrelation Function, ACFThis function will measure the correlation of the time series with its lagged version. Partial Autocorrelation Function, PACFThis function measures the correlation between the time series with a lagged version of itself, controlling the values of the time series at all shorter lagsIn the ACF and PACF plots, the dotted lines are the confidence interval, these values are p and q. The value of p is obtained from the PACF plot and the value of q is obtained from the ACF plot. We can see that both p and q are 2. Now, that we have obtained p and q, we will make three different ARIMA model: AR, MA and the combined model. The RSS of each of the model will be given.AR modelMA modelCombined modelFrom the plots, it is clearly shown that the RSS of AR and MA are the same and that of the combined is much better. As the combined model give a better result, the following steps will take the values back to its original scale. The predicted results are stored.The differencing is converted the log scale. This can be done by adding the differences consecutively to the base numbers.The exponent is taken and is compared to the original scale.Therefore, we have the final result.ReferencesAarshay Jain(2016) A comprehensive beginner's guide to create a Time Series Forecast (with Codes in Python) [WWW] Available from https://www.analyticsvidhya.com/blog/2016/02/time-series-forecasting-codes-python/ [Accessed 14/04/18]Maxime Phillot (2017)How do I interpret the results in an augmented Dickey-Fuller test? [WWW] Available from https://www.quora.com/How-do-I-interpret-the-results-in-an-augmented-Dickey-Fuller-test [Accessed 23/04/18]Jason Brownlee (2016)What Is Time Series Forecasting? [WWW] Available from https://machinelearningmastery.com/time-series-forecasting/ [Accessed 23/04/18]Chris St.Jeor and Sean Ankenbruck (2018)Time Series for dummies- The 3 step process [WWW] Available from https://www.kdnuggets.com/2018/ 03/time-series-dummies-3-step-process.html [Accessed 22/04/18]Pennsylvania state university (n. d) Overview of Time Series Characteristics [WWW] Available from https://onlinecourses.science.psu.edu/stat510/node/47 [Accessed 22/04/18] Time Series A time series is a set of observations, xi each one being recorded at a specific time t. After being recorded, these data are rigorously studied to develop a model. This model will then be used to produce future values, in other words, to make a forecast.Important Characteristics to Consider FirstWhen first looking at a time series, some questions must be asked:Does the time series has a trend or seasonality over time?Are their outliers? With time series data, the outliers are far away from the other data.Is there a long-run cycle or period?Is there constant variance over time? Essential of Good time series Data must be for a sufficient period Equal time ga Constant or normal period. Example1The following plot is a time series plot of the annual number of earthquakes in the world with seismic magnitude over 7.0, for 99 consecutive years. By a time series plot, we simply mean that the variable is plotted against time.Some features of the plot:There is no trend.The mean of the series is 20.2There is no seasonality as the data are annual data.There are no outliers. Example 2 The plot at the top of the next page shows a time series of quarterly production of beer in Australia for 18 years.Some important features are:There is an increasing trend.There is seasonality.There are no obvious outliers.The Components of Time SeriesThe components of time series are factors that can bring changes to the time series:Trend component, TtWhen there is an increase or a decrease over a long period of time in the data, then we say that there is a trend. Sometimes, a trend is said to be changing direction when it goes from an increasing trend to a decreasing one. It is the result of events such as price inflation, population growth or economic changes.Seasonal component, StA seasonal pattern exists when the time series exhibits regular fluctuations at specific time. It arises from influences such as natural conditions or social and cultural behaviors. For example, the sales of ice-cream are relatively high in summer. So, the salesman expects greater profit in summer than in winter. Cyclic component, CtIf the time series shows an up and down movement around a given period of time, it is said to have a cyclical pattern.Irregular component, ItIrregular components consist of changes that are unlikely to be repeated in a time series. Examples are floods, fires, earthquakes or cyclones.Combining the time series componentsTime series is a combination of the components which were discussed above. These components can be either combined additively or multiplicatively.Additive modelIt is linear, and the changes are made by the same amount over time.Yt = Tt + Ct + St + ItMultiplicative modelIt is non-linear such as quadratic or exponential, and the changes increase or decrease over time. Yt = Tt Ãâ€"Ct Ãâ€" St Ãâ€" ItUsesTime series can be useful in the following fields:StatisticsSignal processingEconometricsMathematical financeAstronomyEarthquake predictionsWeather forecastingImportance of Time series for businessesThere are many benefits of time series for business purposes:Helpful for study of past behaviorBusinessmen use time series to study the past behaviors and to see the trend of the sales or profit of their businesses. Helpful in forecastingTime series is a great tool for forecasting. Businesses can make a time series of the past strategies of their competitors and make an estimate of their future strategies. In this way, they make can built a better strategy and make more profits.Helpful in comparisonTime series can be used to calculate the trend of two or more branches of the same company and compare their performance. On their performances, rewards can be given. However, time series can have some limitations for a business. Sales forecasting relies on the past results to predict future expectations. But, if a company is new, there is a limited amount of data to make predictions. Even so, past results do not always indicate what the future sales will be.To fully understand this topic, we will work out this example.Example 2We will consider the actual arrival of passengers from an airport over the year 1949 to 1960. From these data, we will make a forecast. The first step is to plot the data and obtain descriptive measures such as trends or seasonal fluctuations.The second step is to check for the stationarity of the time series.StationarityA time series is said to be stationary if its mean and variance does not change over time. Obviously, not all the time series that we encounter are stationary. It is important because, most of the models we work on, assumes that the time series is stationary. If the time series has the same behavior over time, there will be a high probability that it will follow the same trend in the future.How to check for stationarity?For the graph that was plotted, we can see that it has an increasing trend with some seasonal pattern. But, it is not always evident to see whether a plot is increasing or has a seasonal trend. We can check for stationarity using the following:Plotting rolling statisticsWe plot the moving average or variance and see whether it changes with time. But, as it is a visual technique, we will take more consideration for the next test.Dickey-Fuller testIt is one of the statistical methods to check for stationarity. The null hypothesis is that the time series is non-stationary, and the alternative hypothesis is the converse.As shown below, the test consists of the test statistics and critical values at different significant levels. If the test statistics is less than the critical value, we reject the null hypothesis. Results of Dickey-Fuller Test: Test Statistic 0.815369p-value 0.991880#Lags Used 13.000000Number of Observations Used 130.000000Critical Value (1%) -3.481682Critical Value (5%) -2.884042Critical Value (10%) -2.578770According to the Dickey-Fuller test, the test statistics is less than the critical value. Therefore, the time series is not stationary. However, there are various methods to make a time series stationary.How to make a time series stationary?The assumption of stationarity is very important when modelling a time series, but most of the practical time series are not stationary. Eventually, we cannot make a time series one hundred percent stationary, most of the time, it will be with a confidence of 99%.Before going into detail, we will discuss on the reasons why the time series is not stationary. There are two major reasons to that, trend and seasonality.Having discuss the reasons, we will now talk about the techniques to make the time series stationary:TransformationLog transformation is probably the most commonly used form of transformation.DifferencingDifferencing is a widely used method to make the time series stationary. It is performed by subtracting the previous observation from the current one. When making the forecast, the process of differencing must be inverted to convert the data back to its original scale. This can be done by adding the difference value to the previous value.Using the Dickey-Fuller test we can see that the test statistic is -2.717131 and that the critical values at 1%, 5% and 10% are -3.482501, -2.884398 and -2.578960 respectivelyThe time series is stationary with 90% confidence. The second or third order differencing can be done to get better results.DecompositionIn decomposition, the time series is divided into several components mainly trend, cyclical, seasonal and irregular components.The time series can sometimes be broken down into an additive or multiplicative model.We will assume a multiplicative model for our example.Since the trend and seasonality were separated from the residuals, we can check the stationarity of the residuals.Results of Dickey-Fuller Test is test statistic is -6.332387e+00 and the critical values at 1%, 5% and 10% are -3.48 5122e+00, -2.885538e+00 and -2.579569e+00 respectively. We can conclude that the time series is stationary at 99% confidence.Now, we can go forward with the forecasting.Forecasting the time seriesWe will fit this time series using the ARIMA model, ARIMA is an acronym that stands for Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average. It is a linear equation similar to a linear regression. The first goal is to find the values of the predictors (p, d, q), but before finding these values, two situations in stationarity must be discussed. A strictly stationary series without any dependence among the values. In this case, we can model the residual as white noise.The second case is a series with significant dependency among the values.The predictors mainly depend on the parameters (p, d, q) of the ARIMA model:Number of AR(Auto-Regressive) terms (p)It is the number of lag observation that were included in the model. This term helps to incorporate the effect of the past values into the model. Number of MA (Moving Average) terms (q)It is the size of the moving average window, that is, this term sets the error of the model as a linear combination of the error values observed at previous time points in the past.Number of differences(d)The number of times that the raw observations are differenced.In order to obtain the values of p and q, we will use the following two plots:Autocorrelation Function, ACFThis function will measure the correlation of the time series with its lagged version. Partial Autocorrelation Function, PACFThis function measures the correlation between the time series with a lagged version of itself, controlling the values of the time series at all shorter lagsIn the ACF and PACF plots, the dotted lines are the confidence interval, these values are p and q. The value of p is obtained from the PACF plot and the value of q is obtained from the ACF plot. We can see that both p and q are 2.Now, that we have obtained p and q, we will make three different ARIMA model: AR, MA and the combined model. The RSS of each of the model will be given.AR modelMA modelCombined modelFrom the plots, it is clearly shown that the RSS of AR and MA are the same and that of the combined is much better. As the combined model give a better result, the following steps will take the values back to its original scale.The predicted results are stored.The differencing is converted the log scale. This can be done by adding the differences consecutively to the base numbers.The exponent is taken and is compared to the original scale.Therefore, we have the final result.ReferencesAarshay Jain(2016) A comprehensive beginner's guide to create a Time Series Forecast (with Codes in Python) [WWW] Available from https://www.analyticsvidhya.com/blog/2016/02/time-series-forecasting-codes-python/ [Accessed 14/04/18]Maxime Phillot (2017) How do I interpret the results in an augmented Dickey-Fuller test? [WWW] Available from https://www.quora.com/How-do-I-interpret-the-results-in-an-augmented-Dickey-Fuller-test [Access ed 23/04/18]Jason Brownlee (2016) What Is Time Series Forecasting? [WWW] Available from https://machinelearningmastery.com/time-series-forecasting/ [Accessed 23/04/18]Chris St.Jeor and Sean Ankenbruck (2018) Time Series for dummies- The 3 step process [WWW] Available from https://www.kdnuggets.com/2018/03/time-series-dummies-3-step-process.html [Accessed 22/04/18]Pennsylvania state university (n. d) Overview of Time Series Characteristics [WWW] Available from https://onlinecourses.science.psu.edu/stat510/node/47 [Accessed 22/04/18]

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Does Globalization necessarily lead to cultural homogenization? Essay

Globalization entered everyday English usage in the early Sixties, following the periodical of Marshall McLuhan’s Gutenberg Galaxy (Mc Luhan 1962). Malcolm Waters, a principal authority on the subject, define globalization as a â€Å"process in which the limits of geography on social and cultural arrangements retreat and [as a consequence] people become ever more aware that [such constraints] are retreating† (Waters 1995, p. 3). The term ‘global’ is an astoundingly recent creation, appearing for the first time in the 1986 second edition of the Oxford English Dictionary. The OED’s definition of ‘to globalize’ is easy and to the point: â€Å"to render global. † In globalization â€Å"a large and increasing proportion, whether native or of immigrant backgrounds, are also people with little or no education and few Marketable skills† (Cohen and Kennedy: 2000, 75). â€Å"Globalization, in transnational corporate lingo, is conceived as the last of three stages of global transformation since 1945† (Jameson and Miyoshi 1998). The impact of the new world economy has been just as great on North-South relations as on North-North ones. For one thing, as Manuel Castells suggests, some parts of the South are becoming increasingly irrelevant and marginal to the world economy (Castells, 1997). In other parts, the possibilities for information-based development are there, but a totally different set of new policies is required. These policies would have to be based on the development of human productive potential. In popular usage, globalization is associated with the idea that advanced capitalism, aided by digital and electronic technologies, will ultimately obliterate local traditions and creates a homogenized, world culture. Critics of globalization argue that human experience everywhere is becoming fundamentally the same. The transformative power of digital technologies in a globalised world means that â€Å"information and knowledge have now become media of production, displacing many kinds of manual work. Marx thought that the working class would bury capitalism but as it has turned out, capitalism has buried the working class† (Hutton and Giddens 2001:22). Globalization is both Homogeneity-Heterogeneity as it â€Å"refers to both the compression of the world and the intensification of consciousness of the world as a whole†. In other words, it covers the acceleration in concrete global interdependence and in consciousness of the global whole (Robertson 1992: 8). It involves the crystallization of four main components of the â€Å"global-human circumstance†: societies (or nation-states), the system of societies, individuals (selves), and humankind. This takes the form of processes of, respectively, societalization, internationalization, individuation, and generalization of consciousness about humankind (Robertson 1992: 215-6; 1992: 27). Rather than referring to a multitude of historical processes, the concepts above all capture â€Å"the form in terms of which the world has moved towards unicity† (Robertson, 1992: 175). This form is practically contested. Closely linked to the process of globalization is therefore the â€Å"problem of globality† or the cultural terms on which coexistence in a single place becomes possible (Robertson, 1992: 132). The actual process of globalization has been erratic, chaotic, and slow. Some observers of modern politics argue that a basic version of world culture is taking shape among extremely educated people, particularly those who work in the rarefied domains of international finance, media, and diplomacy. Hyper elites of this nature make up what Samuel Huntington (1996) calls a â€Å"Davos culture†, named after the Swiss town that hosts yearly meetings of the World Economic Forum. Whatever their ethnic, spiritual, or national origin, Davos participants are said to follow a identifiable lifestyle characterized by consistent behaviour (social ease, aristocratic manners, and the ability to tell jokes), technological complexity (knowledge of the latest software, communications systems, and media innovations), complex understanding of financial markets and currency exchange, postgraduate education in influential institutions, common dress and grooming codes, similar body obsession (dietary restraint, vitamin regimes, fitness routines), and a control of American-style English which they use as the main medium of communication. â€Å"Super cultures in the global age of communication which is distinguished by growing and ‘complex connectivity’† (Tomlinson 1999) Davos people, it is asserted, are instantly identifiable and feel more comfortable in each other’s presence than they do amongst less sophisticated compatriots. The World Economic Forum no longer commands the consideration it did in the Nineties, but the term â€Å"Davos† has entered world vocabulary as a synonym for late-Twentieth-Century cosmopolitanism. Building on this idea, the sociologist Peter Berger (1997) argued that the globalization of Euro-American academic agendas and lifestyles has formed a worldwide â€Å"faculty club culture†. Since the Sixties, international funding agencies have sustained academic exchanges and postgraduate training for scholars in developing countries, permitting them to build alliances with Western colleagues. The long-term consequence, Berger argues, is the formation of a global network in which similar values, attitudes, and research goals are collective. Network participants have been instrumental in encouraging feminism, environmentalism, and human rights as global issues. Berger cites the anti-smoking movement as a case in point: the movement began as an elite North American preoccupation in the Seventies and consequently spread to other parts of the world following the forms of academe’s global network. As with Davos sophisticates, members of the international faculty club rely on English to communicate with each other. The anthropologists Ulf Hannerz and Arjun Appadurai have studied similar elites that work on a global scale. Hannerz (1990) believes that a world culture appeared in the late Twentieth Century, stemming from the activities of â€Å"cosmopolitans† who nurtured an intellectual approval for local cultures in the developing world. The new global culture, in this interpretation, is based on the â€Å"organization of diversity† rather than â€Å"a replication of uniformity. † â€Å"Cultural globalization refers to the intensification and expansion of cultural flows across the globe. Obviously, ‘culture’ is a very broad concept; it is frequently used to describe the whole of human experience† (Steger 2003: 69). By the end of millennium, international elites had organized dozens of NGOs to assist preserve cultural diversity in the developing world. Institutions such as Cultural Survival (located in Cambridge, Massachusetts) now work on a world scale, drawing attention to indigenous groups that expect to see themselves as â€Å"first peoples†Ã¢â‚¬â€a new, global description that emphasizes common experiences of utilization. Appadurai (1997) claims that modern diasporas are not simply transnational but â€Å"post national† meaning that people who work in these spheres are unaware of national borders and socialize in a social world that has several home bases. Fundamental to these elite visions of globalism is a disinclination to describe exactly what is meant by culture. This is not unexpected, given that the idea of culture has become one of the most contentious issues in contemporary social sciences. Throughout most of the Twentieth Century, anthropologists defined culture as a shared set of beliefs, customs, and ideas that held people together in identifiable, self-identified groups. Scholars in several disciplines challenged the idea of cultural coherence as it became obvious that members of close-knit groups held fundamentally different visions of their social worlds. Culture is no longer professed as a pre-programmed mental library, a knowledge system inherited from ancestors. Modern anthropologists, sociologists, and media specialists treat culture as a set of ideas, aspects, and expectations that are continually changing as people respond to changing circumstances. This logical development reflects communal life at the turn of the Twenty-First Century; the disintegration of Soviet socialism and the rise of cyber capitalism , both of which have increased the perceived speed of societal change everywhere. Globalization empowers the hybridization of nations and communities to fight cultural imperialism or chauvinism by helping them to describe who they are, where they come from, and where they are going. Globalization and technology assist communities to develop cultural networks, free from state or hierarchical controls, regulations, or limitations. It also helps to demystify cultural differences by easing intercultural connectedness, interactions and hybridization. Therefore, while properly managed, globalization can be good for cultural inspiration, diversity and development. There is a ‘new cosmopolitanism’ in the air as, through criticism, the concept has been rediscovered and reinvented. As the late Nineties there was a sharp increase in literature that attempted to relate the discourse on globalization (in cultural and political terms) to a redefinition of cosmopolitanism for the global age. â€Å"The new cosmopolitanism is the prerogative of wealthy, self-serving, anational agents of capital on the one hand and, on the other, international moralists. † Nussbaum, 1996, 5. For this reason it is worth pointing out that etymologically, cosmopolitan is a blend of ‘cosmos’ and ‘polis’. Thus ‘cosmopolitanism’, captivatingly enough, relates to a pre-modern ambivalence towards a dual identity and a dual devotion. Every human being is rooted (beheimatet) by birth in two worlds, in two communities: in the cosmos (namely, nature) and in the polis (namely, the city/state). More exactly, every individual is rooted in one cosmos, but concurrently in different cities, territories, ethnicities, hierarchies, nations, religions, and so on. This is not an elite but rather an inclusive plural membership (Heimaten). Being part of the cosmos nature, all men (and even all women) are equal; yet being part of diverse states organized into territorial units (polis), men are different (bearing in mind that women and slaves are expelled from the polis). Leaving aside for one moment the issue of women and slaves, ‘cosmopolitanism’ at its root includes what was separated by the logic of barring later on. â€Å"Cosmopolitan† ignores the either/or principle and symbolizes ‘Sowohl-alsauch thinking’, the ‘this-as-well-as-that’ principle. This is an ancient ‘hybrid’, ‘melange’, ‘scape’, ‘flow’ idea that is even more structured than the new offshoots of globalization discourse. Thus cosmopolitanism generates logic of non-exclusive oppositions, making ‘patriots’ of two worlds that are concurrently equal and different. The â€Å"anti-globalization† label became prevalent after the Seattle demonstration, apparently â€Å"†¦a coinage of the US media† (Graeber 2002:63). However, it is significant to realize that the term is strongly contested amongst activists – and that many, if not most, reject the label â€Å"anti-globalization† entirely. So what is it, exactly, that activists oppose? Although there has been significant attention paid lately to militarism in the context of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, it seems to me that most activist accounts in recent years have focused more centrally on phenomena linked with economic globalization: the increasing power of corporations, the growing role of international financial institutions, and the neoliberal policies of trade liberalization and privatization propounded by the latter and from which the former benefit. These are seen to produce economic inequality, social and environmental destruction, and cultural homogenization. They are also accused of leaching power and autonomy away from people and governments – of being anti-democratic. Such an understanding of â€Å"the enemy† chimes with many commentaries on the movement (Starr 2000; Danaher and Burbach 2000). It can also be discerned on activist websites. The Charter of Principles of the World Social Forum (2002) declares participant groups â€Å"†¦opposed to neoliberalism and to domination of the world by capital and any form of imperialism†. The statement of principles on the Globalize Resistance site (2002a) indicates that it is primarily against the extension of corporate power over people’s lives under the heavy hand of international financial institutions similar to the WTO and IMF. The group’s newsletters then target the exploitative practices of particular multinational corporations and draw attention to problems of debt and financial restructuring. Lastly, the Peoples’ Global Action manifesto (1998) articulated opposition to the expansion of the role of â€Å"capital, through the help of international agencies† and trade agreements. There are significant resonances here with academic depictions of globalization. I have argued elsewhere that an ‘economic-homogenization’ model of globalization is becoming increasingly dominant in both academic and popular usage, which focuses attention on the improved combination of the global economy and its homogenizing effect on state policy and culture (Eschle 2004). Such a model is prevalent in International Relations (IR). It is characteristic of liberal IR approaches that support globalization that skeptical refutations of globalization are described as exaggerated and ideological and critical IR theories condemn globalization as profoundly damaging. It is with this last, critical, approach in IR that we find the strongest resonance with activist discourses. Both activist and academic critics share the assumption that globalization equates with the neo-liberal economic developments described above. Then, in an extremely significant move, these developments might be linked to the underlying structures of the economy and globalization reinterpreted as the latest stage of capitalism. According to Klein, â€Å"the critique of ‘capitalism’ just saw a comeback of Santana like proportions† (2002:12). The global culture is usually used in contemporary academic discourse to distinguish the experience of everyday life in specific, exclusive localities.

Saturday, September 14, 2019

A Comparison of newspaper articles- four editorials Essay

Newspapers have long been a mean of communication between the general public and the world. They usually state facts and opinions about an important event that has taken place in the world, which would be of interest. This news can range from political views to showbiz to world affairs. One thing that we do not do when we read a newspaper is to think for one second that what we are reading is that exactly how it happened. Newspapers are used as a medium for propaganda. Propaganda is used frequently in everyday life to manipulate out thoughts and despite what the majority of us think it does affect our opinions. It’s a proven fact that newspapers are more propaganda than facts as the news are twisted around to support the journalist’s own political views. So in a way all news that we read is not as we interpret it to be because journalists would only write what they feel is right and all of us have different opinions. There are two main types of newspapers, Broadsheets like â€Å"The Guardian† and Tabloids like â€Å"The Mirror. † Tabloids are the most popular type of paper; they are often smaller in size, more colourful and use stimulating images to target a certain age range such as teenagers. They use simple words so they are the most widely read newspapers in the world. On the other hand Broadsheets are generally larger in size, more serious and less colourful. They are mostly concerned with current affairs, political issues and people opinions about the government. They are targeted for a specific audience, which might be people who are involved in the fields of employment that are mentioned in the newspaper, or it could just be ordinary people. This essay will explore different types of newspapers and their effects on the general public. I will be doing this by comparing four newspaper editorials from â€Å"The Sun† â€Å"Daily Star† â€Å"The Guardian† and â€Å"The socialist worker. † All four editorials report on the same thing, which is a fight between Nigel Benn and Gerald McClellan where at the end McClellan was left on a life support machine. I will be looking if the editorials are bias and are they for or against Boxing being banned in the UK and how effective their techniques are. In the first editorial by â€Å"The Sun† â€Å"No one is forced to fight† is a tabloid, the headline is very big and bold as is for the second editorial by † The Daily Star†, which is also a tabloid, called â€Å"They knew the risks. † It catches the readers attention straight away even at a glance. The first editorial by the Sun has two verbs in its headline. The word ‘No one’ is a pronoun that indicates/refers to people in general so by saying this the reader will be curious to find out as to what it stands for thus they will be enticed to read the article. The second article is similar to the first in the sense that the pro-noun ‘They’ is quite general, in order to cause the to look at the article in more detail or stimulate interest. The third editorial by â€Å"The Guardian† â€Å"One pummelling too many† is a broadsheet and already you can spot the difference with the headline. It is not bold or italic it is just normal writing. The word â€Å"Pummelling† is not frequently used by the masses, which would most probably capture a target audience. The fourth headline by â€Å"The Socialist worker† â€Å"Boxing bosses count the cash† is also a tabloid. Unlike the other articles it gives us a clearer picture of what the article is about because it is the only one that mentions the adverb ‘Boxing’ The Sun, Daily Star, and the socialist worker, context are less detail, they have short simple facts about the fight and so therefore is aimed at a very broad audience. The first article starts of with a fact but the writer then goes on to express his own views and therefore it is mainly opinions. For example â€Å"why should boxing be banned when all those sports continue? † and words such as brutal† and â€Å"cruel† are used to describe the event, which affects the reader’s emotions, making an incident where blood was involved come to their minds. On the other hand The Guardian newspaper provides a lot more detail with static’s. For example † Britain’s boxing rules have been tightened for over 300 years since the first bare knuckle fight was recorded†. The Guardian has used longer sentence structure in comparison to the other newspapers, the words are generally long and more than three syllables long for example words such as â€Å"neurological† are used, which is quite typical of a broadsheet newspaper as it has so much facts and uses complex vocabulary that it is only served for the needs of intellectual people. All the other newspapers are tabloids so they have used short sentence structure and short words for example is article two the longest word is â€Å"endeavour† where as that would probably be the longest in a broadsheet. The linguistic structure of the sun/daily star and the choice of words are more dramatic and sensation than the Guardian, for example: â€Å"The Sun† Ban boxing It’s too dangerous †¦ Can cause serious damage to the brain †¦. The fear of injury or even death Of course it is brutal and cruel Few of us would dare try it â€Å"The Daily Star† The fight was ferocious, brutal, bloody The end was tragic †¦. Plunge him to purgatory Everyone who watched this fight will never forget it â€Å"The socialist worker† is more concerned with human values than with Boxing itself. It is actually telling us how people have power over others and how they use and exploit them to such an extent that it leaves them paralysed. For example â€Å"to them [managers] boxers are little more than dogs† but than it goes on to give the writers own thoughts â€Å"but those in the ring are prepared to risk their lives because they see it as their only chance of achieving a better life. † The first article does not follow a balanced argument and is biased, what it does is it makes the reader think by using retheriotical questions. For example â€Å"how many jockeys are seriously injured falling of horses? † â€Å"How many rugby players are paralysed with broken necks? † â€Å"Why should boxing be banned when all those sports continue? † it lets you come to your own conclusion but then straight after that it says, â€Å"You cannot nanny people, however tragic the consequences of their actions might be. † Which then makes the reader completely lose track of what he was thinking and accept that what is written is true. This article is against Boxing being banned. The second article is clearly biased and in favour of boxing. If you take one glance at it you will notice that straight away in bold it says, â€Å"they are grown men free to make their own decision. † This article does not let the reader have any thought it is constantly trying to stimulate the readers mind into believing that to box is not a crime. In its last sentence it seems like the author wants people to be involved in committing acts of violence â€Å"don’t let the do-goodders diminish an heroic battle. † The third article is by the Guardian and is also biased and as you would of expected it to be it has used a lot of static’s and facts to persuade their audience that boxing should be banned. The fourth article appears biased that it inclines towards the winner because it is only the winner that counts the cash. On the other hand one could say that the bosses are yearning for their boxers to win so that they can get the money. This article is more about how the society is run than boxing itself because it says â€Å"boxing is a multi-million pound business† but its not the only sport where you can make a million pound. This author wants the class-dive system changed as he clearly outlines it in his last sentences â€Å"The real question is not whether boxing should be banned but whether we can rid of the system which creates it. † Coming to a conclusion I would say that the best newspaper which is more likely to make people think is â€Å"The Socialist Worker† as it would than be a need for one to understand the importance of society and how our we exploit it. After that has been done, than, you could start thinking about different other issues. My own opinion is that boxing should not be banned even after knowing the tragic consequences. I think that if you were to ban boxing there would a lot of unrest and protests so therefore the best way of preventing that is to allow boxing. If people are sane they will know the consequences of boxing and yet if they still want to continue we cannot stop them they have free will but they were warned. So if you allow boxing this way the decision is theirs (boxers) not anyone else’s and only they can be blamed for their actions.