What is the constitutional democracy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

What is the constitutional democracy - Essay Example American democratic system or Constitutional Democracy has two essential components; one related to the constitution and the other related to democracy. The component related to constitution, limits, or controls the power of the government whereas the component related to democracy determines the political power of the government. In America, political authority is attained by a government through the elected representatives in the government. It should be noted that the members of the Congress in America is elected by the people and these congress men/women are responsible for controlling the actions of the government. American president cannot work against the will of the members of the Congress. In other words, the majority of the members of the Congress should vote in favour of a particular policy before it can be implemented by the president or the government. In a constitutional democracy like America, people hold supreme power. In other words, the government cannot work against the will of the people. All the policies or laws implemented in America based on the majority rule. Even though a constitutional democracy, is a government by majority rule, it does not mean that the minority rights can be violated by such a government. It is the duty of the government in constitutional democracy to protect the rights of both minorities as well as the majorities. Judiciary (Court), Parliament (Congress) and Executive (Government) are the three major pillars of any democratic system and the case of America is also not an exception. In America, Supreme Court has the highest authority to decide whether the government is functioning according to the norms of constitution or not. Supreme Court interprets the clauses and norms in the constitution and decides whether the government violated any existing constitutional laws in the country. The philosophy of American constitution lies on

The change in women's position in society Term Paper

The change in women's position in society - Term Paper Example It is still the situation in some parts of the world especially in Muslim communities. The culture was mainly based on the community’s religious beliefs. It was the case in most parts of Europe. Comparing the position of women in the current society and their position before the late 18th century, it is clear that there has been a significant evolution in this matter. France was at the center of this development when it began in the 1780s. From part 8 of the documentary Marie Antoinette, The economic troubles due to wars and poor harvest results in a revolution. It marks the start of a change in the position of women in society, in France and Europe as a whole (6:23). Before the French revolution, the women in France like most parts of Europe were not considered of equal status as men. Women were considered second-class citizens and so were not allowed to take part in certain activities such as leadership and governance, voting and some professions that were considered men’s work. Some activities were marked out as men’s activities and women were meant to stay at home, bear children and raise them. In the documentary Marie Antoinette, after the marriage of the princess Marie Antoinette of Austria to Prince Louise of France, it was the duty of the princes to produce children for her husband. From the movie of The Return of Martin Guerre Mr. Martin Guerre narrates about a community in Brazil where women went to war and made all the major decisions in their society. Mr. Pierre Guerre, an uncle to Martin Guerre replies by saying, â€Å"On the day when women go to war and become rulers of France that would be considered the end of the w orld." It gives a picture of the position of women in the French society in the 17th century (42:56). In the middle ages, the situation of women in society was dictated by the Christian doctrine. Most parts of Europe were dominated by the Catholic Church, and the Christian culture was meant to uphold morality.

Critical Appraisal Of A Research Paper Nursing Essay

Critical Appraisal Of A Research Paper Nursing Essay Research is the key contributor of professional development in many professions, particularly healthcare. It allows practitioners to inform, adjust and monitor particular ways of practice or issues. The ability to evaluate research evidence appropriately is essential to avoid the assumption that all published research is of equal merit and validity. In order to critically appraise the article, Clinical handover in the trauma setting: a qualitative study of paramedics and trauma team members (Evans, Murray, Patrick, Fitzgerald, Smith Cameron, 2010), the ten point CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme, 2006) framework is used. Current literature will be utilised to guide the discussion and reflection in order to conclude the overall strength of this article. The studys aims are concisely stated and numbered clearly. This is of importance in research keeping the main focus well established and succinct, allowing readers to easily understand the objectives (Collins, 2010; Gerrish Lacey, 2010; Stommel Wills, 2004). and reduce the chance of inter-researcher confusion. The authors discussed their reasons for focussing on clinical handovers, highlighting that communication difficulties can lead to serious, even fatal mistakes. A previous study is used to confirm the severity of this problem. Khan (2008) illustrates the benefits of using previous studies in ones background enforce the discussion of why the research is relevant. The researchers discuss the MIST (Mechanism-Injuries-Signs-Treatment) template used in the military, pointing out that little is known about its effectiveness in more general settings. Other ways of improving communication are discussed, such as radio pre-alerts and the use of electronic tablets, noting that as yet eff ectiveness is unproven, supporting the value of this new research. The researchers have not disclosed reasons for choosing qualitative methodology; however, it is appropriate to their aims. They intended to obtain and illuminate personal views and subjective experiences of using the MIST template during handover, in turn modifying the template in response to recurring findings. The stated aim of understanding issues affecting handover efficiency can be best researched via the qualitative method in order to gain participants interpretations of the other professionals involved and to enlighten the interactions between these groups (Block, 2006). The gathering of opinions on data transmission methods and data display within the emergency department (ED) provides a more in-depth understanding of how errors occur and furthermore, how this problem could be improved (Bowling Ebrahim, 2005). The research design used in this study is grounded theory. This specifically enables a new theory to arise from data in order to explain social phenomenon and human behaviour (Chears, 2009; Williams, 2012). It could be argued that the researchers are not developing a new theory in relation to the improvement of the minimum dataset as they merely adapt the MIST template (an already established theory), whereas typically, grounded theory forms a theory from original data collected during a study, not by testing a theory from previous literature in the field (Giles, 2002). In contrast, Henandez (2011) recommends using datasets from previous research in order to collate secondary and primary research, allowing the combination of ideas to form a theory. Furthermore, the findings seem to show that grounded theory has been used within attributes of an affective and ineffective handover: A set of ideas designed to explain what constitutes handover quality has been developed. An example: 11 o ut of the 17 participants expressed that a poor handover includes extraneous information and interruptions. The researchers developed this as a theory to explain why poor handovers may occur. They have described their use of grounded theory but not clarified why they have used this method or with what aims they wished to develop new theories. In relation to the recruitment strategy, Daymon Holloway (2011) illuminate the importance of disclosing the setting, timeframe and people involved in research in order to clarify the boundaries of the study. Here, details of inclusion of participants are thorough and well recorded, including geographical locations, timeframes and demographics. Table 1 shows all participants had a mean of 5 years post-graduate experience, indicating that those with considerable experience were selected. The researchers used purposive sampling method to find a representative group (participants with experience of transporting trauma patients to a trauma service) and used convenience sampling within this representative group to ensure all participants could contribute to the data (Monsen Horn, 2008). Purposive sampling is highly targeted and forms a specific group, resulting in this method being subject to bias, however, if the researchers are aiming to investigate a phenomenon relating to specific gr oups of people (e.g. paramedics and trauma team members), then purposive sampling is appropriate to warrant the correct target group is selected (Newell Burnard, 2011). In addition, the researchers have explained how they have selected a representative trauma team sample; by involving individuals from different specialty groups involved in management of trauma patients (e.g. burns, anaesthetics). There is no record of anyone who chose not to take part. Data collected via semi-structured interviews was an appropriate way to address the research aims, but there are flaws. Researchers needed to record the subjective experiences of this group of professionals in order to determine the key factors causing communication errors. However, information such as the location of interviews is not stated. Japec (2008) points out how the social context of interviews can affect responses. We do not know whether interviews were carried out in a controlled environment (i.e. in the same room, similar time of day and without disturbances). Moreover, the researchers have not disclosed the reasons why the interview method was chosen. Moniff and Whitehead (2010) and Blaikie (2010) illustrate the importance of including this information, to allow the reader to see the relevance of chosen data collection techniques. Furthermore, there is no description of how the data was recorded; a vital element in research to increase confirmability and replicability (G errish Lacey 2010). The form of data cannot be distinguished through the software used (NVIVO 8.0) as it can upload text, videos and tape recordings (Edhlund, 2007). The use of a minimum topic guide for interviews ensures that similar data is collected from participants and eliminates the sequence of questions being different (Holloway Wheeler, 2010). However, the researchers were ambiguous when discussing their use of the topic guide in the study design. They state it was used when interviewing the trauma team speciality groups about the minimum dataset for handover, yet, do not clearly state whether it was used for questions on effective and ineffective handovers, data transmission or data display (even though these prompts appear in the topic guide). There is also no reference to use of the topic guide during interviewing paramedics (although paramedic specific questions are present on the guide leading to assumption that the guide was used). The interview method enhances data as it shows body language and non-verbal interactions (Gerrish Lacey, 2010). However, it can skew results: social desirability can lead to the participant answering a question so as to please the researcher or sound like a good practitioner (Rubin Babbie, 2010). In addition, the interviewer effect may occur (where interviewers subtly influence participants responses through wording of the questions or body language), especially as some researchers belonged to the professions being studied. In this research, the relationship between researchers and participants has not been sufficiently reflected upon. There has been no consideration of how reflexivity and experimenter bias may have influenced the choice of questions (e.g. the topic guide), the sample selection and location. With no comment on who developed the topic guide, we do not know if it was one researcher or a collaboration. This information is essential: if experimenter triangulation was utilised, this would decrease the chance of experimenter bias and reflexivity skewing the questions, increasing credibility of the research (Merrian, 2009). Researchers have not examined their role within sample recruitment either. One researcher is employed by Ambulance Victoria, and another by the Alfred Hospital Presumably personal backgrounds influenced the choice of these two institutions for sample collection, however, there is no personal reflexivity expressed to determine that they have considered their potential bias in this area. Reflexivity is critical in order to increase the rigor of the research; recognising how personal experiences, disposition and emotions can influence research choices allows researchers to compensate for this where possible, and understand the importance of documenting subjective issues (Kirby, Greaves Reid, 2006). In consideration of ethical issues, the researchers have not discussed how, or even if they briefed and debriefed the participants. Adequate briefing is essential do participants know exactly what to expect and are aware of their rights (Fowler, ONeill Helvert, 2011). Briefing also allows participants to give informed consent and avoids passive deception, whereby the researchers deceive participants by omission (Cottrell McKenzie, 2011). Debriefing is equally important, allowing participants to raise any issues experienced during the research (Jackson, 2011; Morrow, Boaz, Brearley Ross, 2012). An ethics committee has approved this research, meaning the emotional impacts on researchers and participants have been assessed and the safeguards and well-being of the participants have been evaluated (Holloway Wheeler, 2010). This implies that ethical considerations have adequately been taken into account, although more detail should have been provided. With respect to the data analysis, grounded theory is defined and clearly explained. In the abstract, thematic analysis was said to be used, but there is no reference to it in the data analysis section. There is, however a clear demonstration of its stages in the description of how the 3 nodes were developed through collecting reoccurring responses and developing them into codes and themes. Open coding has been used, which primarily allows codes and subsequently themes to emerge from the text alone; by using axial coding in addition, the researchers concepts and categories are implemented  whilst re-reading the text in order to check that categories truthfully represent responses and to examine how concepts are related, increasing credibility and validity (Babbie, 2012). However, researchers have not explained how they collaborated to determine what data to present, nor do they disclose any outliers or contradicting results. Reflexivity can affect this process as their subjective thoughts may influence their choices. The researchers have not considered this issue, resulting in reduced credibility (Brink, 2006). They refer to a general consensus when talking about the usability of MIST rather vague and ignoring differing responses. Nevertheless, sufficient data is presented to support the findings. Quotes are implemented to support the data and MIST is rewritten and displayed, including responses. The attribute box allows readers to distinguish differing views between professionals; adding credibility to the data transmission results. Finally, by assigning a third researcher, experimenter bias is reduced and to some degree helps the issue of reflexivity, as researchers past experiences will all differ, affecting how they may perceive participants ans wers, and subsequently code the text. Triangulation of researchers adds rigor to the research (Inoue, 2012). There is a relatively clear statement of findings in the research; data is affirmed under primary nodes developed by thematic analysis clearly and concisely and they are also logically discussed in the order of aims. Hinshaw (2011) emphasises the importance of clearly presented results to allow the reader easy access to the main outcomes and suggested action points. Specific quotes arising from the interviews to corroborate and increase dependability of the results (Streubert Carpenter, 2011). Discussions are made for and against the researchers suggestions. Supporting discussions include the concept of time out in theatres where team members pause and complete a checklist to ensure safety (this current practice boasts reduction in surgical error), reinforcing the results where paramedics state an effective handover is one where the receiving body stop and exercise listening skills. An example where researchers challenge their findings is the reference to a study, concluding informa tion recall of just 36% even when paramedics were provided with handover training. Using evidence to challenge their research demonstrates that the researchers are not prejudiced in favour of their own results and that they recognise the need to consider additional barriers (Brink, 2006). However, the researchers have not discussed the credibility of their findings; they have employed researcher triangulation to reduce intrinsic biases, but have not mentioned how this improves credibility and rigor in the discussion. There is no comment about respondent validation, raising the question whether this was carried out. It is a of checking the truthfulness of research, by giving participants the findings to comment on if there is any misinterpretation: an effective way of reducing researcher bias (Pope Mays, 2006). The value of this research is limited: the researchers acknowledge their results form a basis for development and recognise that trails and further research must be carried out. Findings are discussed in light of current practice, recognising that the MIST tool needs to be trialled further. Researchers also acknowledge that training will have to be developed for paramedics (as with any new proposed method in ambulance services). It is stated that noise barriers need to be evaluated, however, no new areas of research are proposed. Researchers have not discussed whether their research can be transferred to other populations. They have briefly discussed generalizability, stating the research should be generalised to other hospitals with caution as the data was collected in a busy referral hospital. They also recognise that selecting paramedics with experience in trauma settings can lead to decreased generalizability, as paramedics with less trauma experience may have differing views. In conclusion, this research boasts excellent presentation and structure comprising strong background and aims. Utilising qualitative methodology enabled researchers to gain subjective experiences and views from healthcare professionals to provide a deeper understanding of how communication errors occur during handover and propose a multifactorial strategy for improvement. It could be argued that the researchers are not developing a new theory, therefore not utilising grounded theory correctly, however, there is ample literature disputing this, stating that it is acceptable to build on existing theory in order to develop a new one. The research has been carried out in the light of the original aims throughout and the results are clearly presented, with additional quotes to enforce points. However, there is minimal consideration of potential biases and the effect of reflexivity, reducing credibility. Furthermore, many methods have not been justified (research method, use of grounded t heory, data collection and data presentation) leading to overall low rigor and credibility. Finally, it is recognised that this research will not change future practice without further research and trailing. Nevertheless, the original data collected here and strategies for improvement presented make this research a valuable contribution to the field. (182) =2199 References Babbie, E. (2012). The practice of social research. (13th ed.). Wadsworth: Cengage Learning. Blaikie, N. (2010). Designing social research. (2nd ed.). Cambridge: Polity Press. Block, D. (2006). Healthcare outcomes management: strategies for planning and evaluation. London: Jones and Bartlett Publishers. Bowling, A. Ebrahim, S. (2005). Handbook of health research methods: investigation, measurement and analysis. Berkshire: Open University Press. Brink, H. (2006). Fundamentals for research methodology for health care professionals. (2nd ed). Cape Town: Juta Co. Chears, V. (2009). Taking a strand for others: a grounded theory. USA: ProQuest LLC. Collins, H. (2010). Creative research: the theory and practice of research for the creative industries. London: AVA Publishing. Cottrell, R. McKenzie, J. (2011). Health promotion education research methods: using the five-chapter thesis/dissertation model. (2nd ed.). London: Jones and Bartlett Publishers. Critical Appraisals Skills Programme (CASP). (2006). Qualitative research: appraisal tool. 10 questions to help you make sense of qualitative research. Oxford: Public Health Resource Unit. Daymon, C. Holloway, I. (2011). Qualitative research methods in public relations and marketing communications. (2nd ed.). Oxfordshire: Routledge. Edhlund, B. (2007). NVivo essentials: the ultimate help when you work with qualitative analysis. Stallarholmen: Form Kunskap. Evans, S., Murray, A., Patrick, I., Fitzgerald, M., Smith, S. Cameron, P. (2010). Clinical handover in the trauma setting: a qualitative study of paramedics and trauma team members. BMJ: Quality and Safety Health Care, 19(6), 1-6. Fowler, C., ONeill, L. Helvert, J. (2011). The handboom of emergent technologies in social research. New York: Oxford University Press. Gerrish, K. Lacey, A. (2010). The research process in nursing. (6th ed.). Sussex: Blackwell Publishing. Giles, D. (2002). Advanced research methods in psychology. Sussex: Routledge. Henandez, C. (2011). Grounded theory: the philosophy method, and work of barney glaser. USA: Brown Walker Press. Hinshaw, A. (2011). Shaping health policy through nursing research. New York: Springer Publishing. Inoue, A. (2012). Writing studies research in practice: methods and methodologies. USA: Southern Illinois University Press. Jackson, S. (2011). Research methods: a modular approach. (2nd ed.). Wadsworth: Cengage Learning. Japec, L. (2008). Advances in telephone survey methodology. New Jersey: John Wiley Sons. Khan, J. (2008). Research methodology. New Delhi: APH Publishing. Kirby, S., Greaves, L. Reid, C. (2006). Experience research social change: methods beyond the mainstream. (2nd ed.). Ontario: Library and Archives Canada Cataloguing in Publication. Merrian, S. (2009). Qualitative research: a guide to design and implementation. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Moniff, J. Whitehead, J. (2010). You and your action research project. (3rd ed.). Oxfordshire: Routeledge. Monsen, E. Horn, L. (2008). Research: successful approaches. (3rd ed.). USA: Diana Faulhaber. Morrow, E., Boaz, A., Brearley, S. Ross, F. (2012). Handbook of service user involvement in nursing healthcare research. Sussex: John Wiley Sons. Newell, R. Burnard, P. (2011). Research for evidence based practice in healthcare. (2nd ed.). Sussex: John Wiley Sons. Pope, C. Mays, N. (2006). Qualitative research in healthcare. (3rd ed.). Oxford: Blackwell Publishing. Rubin, A. Babbie, E. (2010). Essential research methods for social work. (2nd ed.). Belmont: Cengage Learning. Stommel, M. Wills, C. (2004). Clinical research: concepts and principles for advanced practice nurses. Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams Wilkins. Streubert, H. Carpenter, D. (2011). Qualitative research in nursing. (5th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams Wilkins. Williams, J. (2012). The paramedics guide to research: an introduction. Berkshire: Open University Press.

Reggae Icons, Jamaican Culture, and Homophobia Essay -- Essays Papers

Reggae Icons, Jamaican Culture, and Homophobia "The world is in trouble/Anytime Buju Banton come/ Batty boy get up and run/ ah gunshot in ah head man/Tell dem crew†¦ it’s like/ Boom bye bye, in a batty boy head, rude boy nah promote no nasty man, them hafi dead." The average member of the reggae dancehall culture knows the message that this song is sending to its listeners. However, without a translation these lyrics do not mean a thing to someone who is not familiar with this culture and the vocabulary of dancehall artists. Translated the lyrics read: "The world is in trouble/When Buju Banton arrives/Faggots have to run/Or get a bullet in the head /Bang-bang, in a faggot’s head/Homeboys don’t condone nasty men/They must die." These lyrics from the song "Boom Bye Bye" by Buju Banton personify the manner in which the reggae dancehall culture of Jamaica views homosexuals. These lyrics will always be part of dancehall history because of the controversy they started amongst the homosexual North American community, who were offended by Buju Banton’s lyrics. The controversy brought about the question of whether this was a problem due to cultural differences or a hate crime against a group that is considered a minority, homosexuals. This song brings forth issues and different beliefs that are present in the Jamaican culture that contradicts those of the North American culture. The lyrics of dancehall reggae music in Jamaica seem to encourage the taunting and violence towards homosexuals. Of course it is normal for most reggae songs to deal with the social concerns and religious beliefs of Jamaicans because it is a big representation of the Jamaican culture. Homosexuals are looked down upon as outcasts because of their sexuality. Homop... ...ut his culture. I believe anyone, not only musicians, but any artist should be able to express themselves and their beliefs through their work. If it is the norm in your society to believe something is wrong then how can you expect a prominent artist to express himself in a manner that goes against the norm of his society. Personally I believe that he is signing about his culture and no one, no matter what the situation, should be criticized for expressing his or her beliefs. In conclusion the deeply rooted homophobia that is mistakably reflected in Banton’s lyrics and that, more importantly, pervades the Jamaican society, is a very controversial issue. Not only is there the question of whether Banton is correct because he is singing about his culture but despite the fact that he is expressing his beliefs does he have any right to threaten the lives of human beings.

Theme of Pastoralism in Shakespeare’s as You Like It

William Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ is probably one of the most famous pastoral comedies of all times. Written around 1599 and published in 1623, its plot was derived from Thomas Lodge’s pastoral romance ‘Rosalynde’. But what is interesting about this play is how Shakespeare, using the features and tropes of a pastoral comedy, undercuts the idea of the pastoral. The pastoral, as a genre, can be said to have had its beginnings with Theocritus’ ‘Idylls’. Other notable works in this genre are Virgil’s ‘Eclogues’ and Longus’ ‘Daphnis and Chloe’. Artificiality and lack of realism are the chief characteristics of this tradition.When the Elizabethans wrote in this tradition, they more or less followed the set conventions. The shepherds with which they peopled their rural landscape were metaphors for amorous lovers, scholar-poets and aristocrats in exile. These poets gave the primacy to cou rtiers who led a shepherd-like existence or merely treated the rural environment as a background to the amours of shepherds and shepherdesses who in their love-behaviour resembled the refined noble-men of the court. ‘As You Like It’ also has these love-lorn figures in characters such as Silvius and Phebe.Yet, it can be clearly seen from their marginalized status in the play that Shakespeare has clearly departed from the convention of ‘pastoralisation’ of the courtly people. 1. The people in Shakespeare’s pastoral are not the dainty shepherds and shepherdesses of the golden world. They are uneducated, plain-spoken, not much concerned with romance, poetry and etiquette. The reason for this far-away-from-reality portrayal of the country people in pastoral romances and poetry was the fact that the authors/poets were a part of a class belonging to the town and court.Their anxieties and pre-occupations with their own socio-politico-economic conditions nece ssitated the construction of an idyllic space, free from all the troubles and tensions. And it was to fulfil this need to escape that they created an almost Eden-like rural world. The pastoral, therefore, became one of the literary forms best suited for an expression of disgust with the court and an admiration for the ‘simple pleasures’ of the country. 2. â€Å"They say he is already in the Forest of Arden, and many a merry men with him; and there they live like the old Robin Hood of England.They say many young gentlemen flock to him every day, and fleet the time carelessly as they did in the golden world†, says Charles in Act 1, Scene 1 of the play. This sure raises our expectations about the Forest of Arden as a place where life is like a never-ending holiday. In Act 2, Scene 1, Duke Senior also describes the Forest as a place where he finds â€Å"good in everything† and compares it to the Garden of Eden. But in the very same dialogue, he refers to the à ¢â‚¬Å"icy fang/ And churlish chiding of the winter’s wind†. This brings to our notice the less-than-perfect nature of life in Arden.Even when away from the strifes of courtly life, the courtiers and the duke have to bear the â€Å"penalty of Adam†. Each of the character that enters the Forest of Arden considers it as a refuge from the iniquity, restriction, oppression and corruption of the life at court. Rosalind and Celia run away from the court to escape the patriarchal domination of the tyrant Duke Frederick. Orlando and Adam come to the Forest in search of a new life away from the injustice meted out to him by his own brother. Duke Senior and his courtiers remain in the Forest as exiles, having been wronged at the hands of Duke Frederick.But even here Shakespeare inverts this notion by giving each one of them their share of trials and tribulations. It certainly is not an escape into a utopian world as we would like it to be. Each of them reaches the Forest in a state of physical exhaustion and it is not the end of their troubles, what with hunger, extreme weather conditions and struggle for survival staring them in the face. The play also deals with the idea of old world-new world order and uses pastoral as a medium to resolve serious socio-political problems.The society at this point in time was in a state of flux and the aristocracy came to be divided into two categories – One that still set much store by the notions of blood lineage, loyalty and a golden, feudal society where everyone knows his place and the other that adopted the Machiavellian idea of rampant individualism and gain of power for selfish purposes. Shakespeare presents this split in the society in terms of familial conflict between Oliver and Orlando & Duke Senior and Duke Frederick.In denying Orlando his share in his fathers’ fortune and mistreating Adam, Oliver violates the moral law of the traditional order which required the lord to fulfil the patriar chal commitment of ensuring a harmonious social order on his estate. Sir Rowland de Boys is depicted as the epitome of the ideal lord. By virtue of being morally akin to his father, Orlando is loved by everyone. He embodies traditional values of the old feudal order, â€Å"the antique world†. Oliver, being all that his father was not is representative of the new world order.Duke Frederick, similarly, is put in the same moral category when he says, â€Å"The world esteemed [Sir Rowland] honourable/But I did find him still mine enemy. † Not only this, he is an anomaly in the law of primogeniture because he overthrows the rightful inheritor, Duke Senior, who also loves Sir Rowland and thus we hold him in the same light as Orlando. Oliver violates moral law, Duke Frederick violates social law. It is in the Forest of Aden that this violation is corrected and we see the ultimate re-uniting of the Orlando and Oliver when the wronged younger brother saves the life of the very elder brother who had plotted to kill him.And it is after entering the Forest that Duke Frederick realises his folly in usurping the rightful position of his brother and Duke Senior is thus reinstated as the king. The Forest, more importantly the idea of countryside, then works as a place which provides resolution to the conflicts and restores harmony. There is a constant contrast being drawn between the court and the country in the play which undoubtedly presents the country as a better and superior alternative.The move by the characters into the Forest of Arden is seen as a retreat into nature where they are physically and spiritually rejuvenated. It is also a source of learning for the Duke Senior, for he â€Å"Finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks/Sermons in stones, and good in everything†. Their stay in the Forest re-instils a sense of confidence in them and they also acquire a degree of self-knowledge. But in spite of this idealization of the country we do not see even one character that completely identifies with it.The pastoral is just a temporary refuge and never a permanent haven. As soon as the familial and social conflicts are resolved, the inhabitants leave the place about which they had eulogised. In Act 1, Scene 1, talking to Adam about Oliver’s unjust behaviour towards him, Orlando describes his gentility against the coarseness of the country people. In saying â€Å"You have trained me like a peasant, obscuring and hiding from me all gentleman-like qualities†, Orlando gives vent to an inherent prejudice against the country folks as uncivilized people.Even when in the Forest, Orlando thinks of the country dwellers as incapable of any civility and the prejudice in him remains intact when he says â€Å"I thought that all things had been savage here†. Duke Senior refers to his days at court as â€Å"better days† with an evident sense of nostalgia in the same scene and draws a contrast between the ord erly life at court and the almost anarchical existence in the Forest when he recalls the â€Å"holy bell [that] knolled to church/ And [when he] sat at good men’s feasts†. This distinction between the court and country is brought out most tellingly in the characters of Touchstone and Corin.Touchstone’s description of himself as a courtier not only parodies the courtiers and their ways but also provides a contrast with the simplicity of Corin, representative of the rural fraternity. We notice a misplaced sense of elitism and superiority seeping in in the behaviour of Touchstone as soon as he enters the Forest when he calls out to Corin as â€Å"you clown† in Act 2, Scene 5 and refers to himself as his â€Å"betters†. The conversation between the two in Act 3, Scene 2 shows the yawning fissures that separated the two classes and precluded any possibility of a democratic exchange of ideas. 3.Touchstone’s answer to Corin’s inquiry about h is feelings for shepherd life underlines the conventions of the pastoral life-â€Å" Truly, shepherd, in respect of itself it is a good life; but in respect that it is a shepherd's life, it is naught. In respect that it is solitary, I like it very well; but in respect that it is private, it is a very vile life. Now, in respect it is in the fields, it pleaseth me well; but in respect it is not in the court, it is tedious. † Corin himself continues this realistic tone when he points out the obvious differences between life in the court and life in the country.The best truce between the two diametrically opposite worlds comes in Corin’s sagacious analysis-â€Å" Those that are good manners at the court are as ridiculous in the country as the behaviour of the country is most mockable at the court† thus establishing that one place is not necessarily better than the other, just different. The relationship that the court people establish with the Forest and the forest- dwellers is almost exploitative in nature. Despite being away from the court physically, they can never really leave behind the court mannerisms and prejudices.We see a new court order being established in the Forest. The Duke and his courtiers are refugees in the forest, but still they become tyrants and usurpers of the place rightfully belonging to the inhabitants. They kill the animals, the natives i. e. , for their own convenience and pleasure. Broken feudal loyalties are strengthened when Duke Sr. meets Orlando and recognises him to be the son of his favourite, Sir Rowland. We see the creation of a social hierarchy when Rosalind and Celia, by virtue of their socio-economic position in the society, enter into a business arrangement’ with Corin and offer to buy his land. Although, he is a native of the Forest and should be economically prosperous, going by the conventions of the pastoral, we are informed that he does not even â€Å"shear the fleeces [he] graze[s]† a nd is servant to a â€Å"churlish master†. Thus unlike the traditional pastoral relationship between the courtier and shepherds which is that of good-natured equality, in Shakespeare’s play the shepherd can only become a host to the ladies by becoming their servant. . Some critics have also read this usurpation of the rights of the natives as a critique of the systemic enclosure of the commons in 17th century England. As mentioned earlier, the retreat into the Forest is not an escape into a utopian world. Rather than simply being an idyllic, innocent site to escape to, Arden is constructed as a neutral space where people are allowed to be themselves, free to create alternate identities and perhaps this is from where the title of the play, ‘As You Like It’, derives. 5.Each character that enters the Forest projects his own personality on to it. So while Duke Sr finds it to be â€Å"idyllic golden world†, almost Eden-like, Orlando calls it â€Å"deser t inaccessible†. Rosalind and Celia meet a pleasant sheepcote â€Å"fenced with olive trees† on entering the Forest while Oliver is greeted by a snake with drawn fangs and a lioness ready to kill him. So a retreat into Arden can be seen as a metaphor for the retreat into ones soul. It becomes the mirror of their minds, reflecting their thoughts onto their situations.Rosalind and Celia escape the unpleasant and restricted atmosphere of the court and don new identities in the Forest. While Celia chooses the name Aliena, representative of her state of mind, Rosalind forges an altogether new identity for herself by choosing to dress up like a man as Ganymede. By doing this, Rosalind draws upon the latent courage and resilience of her character. She becomes a working woman, independent of all male control, something which the orderly and patriarchal world of the court would not have permitted.A subversion of the gender stereotypes is also happening in the relationship of Orl ando and Rosalind in the Forest where Orlando roams about looking for her and inscribing eulogies as proof of his love for Rosalind on tree barks and she tests his love in the garb of Ganymede. Orlando, whom we had seen as a man who knows his worth and potential but is unable to actualise it due to his situation in society, transforms into a most ardent lover as he is given the freedom to express his love. The loyal courtier in him is accorded its true worth when Duke Sr recognises him as the son of Sir Rowland de Boys.Thus the entry into Forest can also be seen as a symbolic quest to determine one’s identity. In so far as all the action of the play takes place in the Forest of Arden, it is of prime importance. But as we have noticed, the retreat into Arden is not a permanent move on the part of the court dwellers. The stay in the Forest is a means to and not the end itself, the end being resolution of all social and familial conflicts. And Shakespeare very well uses the past oral tradition to achieve this resolution.

What is Image (a social statement)

Image. What is it? Like anything, different people interpret image in different ways. Hence, image has a varied amount of interpretations, for its definitions. Interpretations of this word include how a person looks, acts, reputation etc. etc. Many more can be added to this list. Definition given by the dictionary, of image is: – † a picture or statue of a person, or the appearance of something as seen in a mirror or through a lens etc. a person or thing that is very much like another reputation† Society in general, takes image as an indicator of what at person like is. Image of a person is interpreted in different ways by society. It maybe how a person physically looks, type of clothes they may where, type of music they may listen to, personality, friends they may have, and so on. An example of this in reality would be if someone saw a person who was wearing baggy clothes, who had long hair and was skating they would deduce they also like rock music, and are ‘moshers', if the person who saw this doesn't like rock music or skating, they would probably not want themselves to be associated with this person all because of the image they have. Everyone presents an image, and the above are the things which society uses to create an image of an individual from what they present. Image and society, why is there a link? In a recent survey carried out, 60% of the population use image and not personality of a individual to decide if they like them, and if so how much. Society and image then leads onto categorisation. Generally society use image to place everyone in a group. Reason for this who knows? It may be people want to know what everyone else is like, and if people group others they can decide on thins like who they like or not, and also people could decide on things like who they want to be with. According to another survey in social behaviour, 70% of the people surveyed admitted to grouping people. The most popular group people come up with to categorize people are ‘Townie and Moshers'. This is a classic example of grouping. ‘Townies', are thought of to listen to dance music or urban music (because they think it's cool), they wear ‘townie gear', which is trackies and other things with huge sport labels written on them, and they boast about smoking weed. Whereas ‘Moshers' are stereotyped as listening to rock (mosher) music, like the colour black, have long hair, wear baggy clothes, take lots of drugs and only sporting activity they may do is skating. Image can be a positive influence because it could provide good role models to the public. People may look up to the image an individual may have, and it may influence them, if the role model is good this could be good for individuals, as it may make them better people. This can also have a negative effect on people, if the role model is bad. Image can also be bad because some may become to conscious about their image that they are presenting, and some people may find it uncomfortable being in public because of this reason. Another reason why image can be bad is that when society categorises, prejudice may be created as people will listen to anything and like or dislike people because of an image they may have, as their obviously will be minority groups, which generally people don't want to exist. People are different so they may be discriminated against, and people would be prejudice against, because they don't fit into usual categories. It is a fact today's society use image and not personality of someone to rate them. It's like a the worlds a huge playground, and one child sees other and immediately shouts out â€Å"you're a geek†, and doesn't become friends with them all because apparently this other child looks like a geek. This point has a negative effect on society. As some people spend too much time worrying about image, also some people are left out, and discriminated because they may have a bad image, but they may still be good people.

Passion, or something like it - Emphasis

Passion, or something like it Passion, or something like it It probably wont surprise you to find out that were pretty keen on the English language here at Emphasis. And we like to know that others are too. Fortunately, evidence of this is easy to find: look no further than the comments section at the bottom of just about any online article about our language. Take this Guardian blog about the growing use of the phrase right now: what follows is a veritable hotbed of debate and rancorous ravings on some uses of English people just love to hate. It seems many members of the public take deep and personal offence at everything from classic management speak (blue-sky thinking, window of opportunity) to misplaced reflexive pronouns (yourself for you; myself for me); from starting every sentence with look to peppering them too generously with like. And a fight might yet break out between the haters of Americanisms and the haters of haters of Americanisms. It may get pretty ugly sometimes, but they do say that the opposite of love is actually not hate, but indifference. And while passionate certainly isnt a word to use lightly, its safe to say there are obviously some ticks and traits of our language that get people pretty hot and bothered. This can only mean that they care. So show us you care too. Leave a comment here in our writing blog on any aspect of the language that raises your ire, your interest, or anything else.