The History of Satellites - Sputnik I

History was made on October 4, 1957, when the Soviet Union successfully launched  Sputnik I. The worlds first artificial satellite was about the size of a basketball and weighed only 183 pounds. It took about 98 minutes for Sputnik I to orbit the Earth on its elliptical path. The launch ushered in new political, military, technological, and scientific developments and marked the beginning of the space race between the U.S.and the U.S.S.R. The International Geophysical Year In 1952, the International Council of Scientific Unions decided to establish the International Geophysical Year. It wasnt actually a year but rather more like 18 months, set from July 1, ​1957, to December 31, 1958. Scientists knew that cycles of solar activity would be at a high point at this time. The Council adopted a resolution in October 1954 calling for artificial satellites to be launched during the IGY to map the earths surface. The U.S. Contribution   The White House announced plans to launch an Earth-orbiting satellite for the IGY in July 1955. The government solicited proposals from various research agencies to undertake development of this satellite. NSC 5520, the  Draft Statement of Policy on U.S. Scientific Satellite Program, recommended both the creation of a scientific satellite program as well as the development of satellites for reconnaissance purposes. The National Security Council approved the IGY satellite on May 26, 1955, based on NSC 5520. This event  was announced to the public on July 28 during an oral briefing at the White House. The  governments statement emphasized that the satellite program was intended to be the U.S. contribution to the IGY and that the scientific data was to benefit scientists of all nations. The Naval Research Laboratorys Vanguard proposal for a satellite was chosen in September 1955 to represent the U.S. during the IGY.   Then Came Sputnik I   The Sputnik launch changed everything. As a technical achievement, it caught the worlds attention and the American public off guard. Its size was more impressive than Vanguards intended 3.5-pound payload. The public reacted with fear that the Soviets ability to launch such a satellite would translate to the ability to launch ballistic missiles that could carry nuclear weapons from Europe to the U.S. Then the Soviets struck again: Sputnik II was launched on November 3, carrying a much heavier payload and a dog named Laika. The U.S. Response The U.S. Defense Department responded to the political and public  furor over the Sputnik satellites by approving funding for another U.S. satellite project. As a simultaneous alternative to Vanguard, Wernher von Braun and his Army Redstone Arsenal team began work on a satellite that would become known as Explorer. The tide of the space race changed on January 31,  1958, when the U.S. successfully launched Satellite 1958 Alpha, familiarly known as Explorer I. This satellite carried a small scientific payload that eventually discovered magnetic radiation belts around the Earth. These belts were named after principal investigator James Van Allen. The Explorer program continued as a successful ongoing series of lightweight, scientifically-useful spacecraft.   The Creation of NASA The Sputnik launch also led to the creation of NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Congress passed the National Aeronautics and Space Act, commonly called the Space Act,† in July 1958,  and the Space Act created NASA effective October 1, 1958. It joined NACA, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, with other government agencies. NASA went on to do  pioneering work in space applications, such as communications satellites, in the 1960s. The Echo, Telstar, Relay, and Syncom satellites were built by NASA or by the private sector based on significant NASA advances. In the 1970s, NASAs Landsat program literally changed the way we look at our planet. The first three Landsat satellites were launched in 1972, 1975, and 1978. They transmitted complex data streams back to earth that could be converted into colored pictures. Landsat data has been used in a variety of practical commercial applications since then, including crop management and fault line detection. It tracks many kinds of weather, such as droughts, forest fires, and ice floes. NASA has also been involved in a variety of other earth science efforts as well, such as the Earth Observation System of spacecraft and data processing that has yielded important scientific results in tropical deforestation, global warming, and climate change.

Essay on Music in Jane Austens Persuasion - 1926 Words

Music in Jane Austens Persuasion In Persuasion Jane Austen tells the story of Anne, a young woman who suffers terrible losses yet does not let these losses embitter her. But the death of her mother during Annes youth and the loss of her true love in her early adulthood certainly leave their mark on Anne. She survives with great strength of character, yet she withdraws from life. But Anne does not withdraw alone; she takes her music with her. Music has been called the language of the heart. It has an enduring quality, and it can cross barriers and build bridges. Music moves us. Words, too, can cross barriers, build bridges, and touch our hearts; and like beautiful music, a good story is timeless. In Persuasion, Austen†¦show more content†¦In contrast, for Anne, playing the piano is a way to give pleasure . . . to herself (48) and to others. Anne thinks about Louisa and Henrietta, who are carefree, living to be fashionable, happy, and merry (43). Yet she does not desire to trade places with them b ecause she would not have given up her own more elegant and cultivated mind for all their enjoyments (43). Anne very much values her education and musical training. The marked contrast between Annes and Elizabeths relationship to music also helps to reveal the depth of Annes character. Anne appreciates music while Elizabeth simply uses it. Elizabeth sees music only as a way to further her own social standing. For the last thirteen winters she has open[ed] every ball of credit which [their] scanty neighbourhood afforded (13). In Bath, Elizabeth trails Lady Dalrymple into the concert room, enjoying herself as she tries to be of all the consequence in [her] power, draw as many eyes, excite as many whispers, and disturb as many people as [she] could (175). While both Elizabeth and Anne are very, very happy (175) at this concert, it is for vastly different reasons. Elizabeth is centered on herself, while Anne is centered on the music. 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The main character, Anne Elliot, has suffered unhappiness afterRead MoreËÆ∠«Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒâ€žÃƒ ¤Ãƒâ€šÃƒâ€¡Ã¢â€° ¤ÃƒÅ Ãƒâ€" ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã¢Ë† Ãƒ ©Ãƒâ€šÃƒâ€¦Ãƒ ¨Ãƒâ€¹ÃƒÅ¸Ãƒâ€¦Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒâ€žÃƒ £Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã¢Ë† Ã¢â€°  Ãƒ Ãƒ ¶Ãƒâ€˜Ãƒ Ãƒ  Ã‚ ±ÃƒÅ Ãƒâ€°Ãƒâ€"ËßÇÂà ­Ãƒ ¥Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ©Ãƒ ¶Ãƒâ€šÃƒÅ¸Ã‚ ªÃƒâ€¹ÃƒÅ¸Ãƒâ€¡4201 Words   |  17 Pagesis one of Jane Austen’s famous book, being the representative of realistic literature. It portrays, with special sensitive characteristic of female writers, the life and ideas of middle class who live in countryside. This novel makes an analysis of human nature and then stick up readers to think over social relations. This novel takes young people’s marriage as the thread and it covers the inheritance of fortune, women’s social status, ethics and customs. Being the masterpiece of Jane Austen, it

Anne Boleyn Essay Example For Students

Anne Boleyn Essay Whoso List to Hunt by Thomas Wyatt is again a typical Petrarchian sonnet. Though rather than describing the beauty of his lover Wyatt prefers to write of the loss of his freedom to woo her. The reader presumes the poem is about Wyatts supposed lover Anne Boleyn who became the second wife of Henry VIII. Possibly the poem refers to Anne Boleyn, who was chased by Henry VIII. Wyatt is supposed to have warned the King against her as she was too free with her favours. (http://www. shakespeares-sonnets. com/Wyatt2. htm#anchor003) Throughout the sonnet Wyatt likens his lover to a deer Whoso list to hunt, I know where is an hind. He explains that anyone can hunt her if they want to but he may not But as for me alas, I may no more. He speaks of his pursuit of her and her wildness like the wind; Since in a net I seek to hold the wind. She is impossible to catch. The most significant part of this poem is the last four lines. And graven with diamonds in letters plain There is written, her fair neck round about. Noli me tangere, for Caesars I am,And wild for to hold, though I seem tame. The words Noli me tangere are Latin, they mean touch me not as Anne now belongs to the king, this links to the bible as this is what Jesus said to Mary Magdalene after the resurrection. Also it is said that the deer in Caesars forest wore a collar with a similar inscription to warn people against hunting them. It also links to a famous tale of Henry VIII and Wyatt, when they were arguing over a tennis game and Henry produced a necklace belonging to Anne to prove his point, meaning he had won the game and Anne. (http://mths. metamora. k12. il. us/Departments/english/ronane/Renaissance%20Project/Wyatt. htm) They Flee from Me by Thomas Wyatt is written in three 7 line stanzas and alternate rhyming couplets. This poem, it is likely, could also speak of the loss of Anne Boleyn to the king as well as the change in power from the man to the woman. In Elizabethan times a man would rarely complain of rejection from a woman as he would move onto the next fairly soon. Her power over him comes out in her questioning, dear heart, how like you this? This time, she is the pleasure giver (http://rpo. library. utoronto. ca/poem/2407. html) The first stanza explains the woman who once came to him at his command now runs from him presumably to the arms of another man. The second stanza remembers her when he was under her power and she had control over him, she seduced him instead of him seducing her as was common at the time. And she me caught in her arms long and small. In the third stanza he wants to believe that her flight was a dream but he is wrong. She has left and forgotten him, into a strange fashion of forsaking. The last two lines explain that she treated him so kindly but he will never find out what he could give her in return as he never got the chance; But since that I so kindly am served, I would fain know what she deserved. In each poem the mistress is portrayed in a different way. In the first Shall I Compare Thee to a Summers Day by Shakespeare, the mistress is shown in the conventional way; unmatchable charm and exaggerated beauty. In the second My Mistress Eyes are Nothing Like the Sun Shakespeare does not talk of beauty at all in fact his mistress in not considered beautiful at all, but he loves her just as much as he would had she been Venus herself. In the first of Wyatts poems covered in my essay the mistress is likened to a deer, free and a bit wild that has been caught and taken from him. The second of Wyatts and final poem in my essay the mistress is portrayed as a woman so incredible and maybe beautiful that she is capable of having power over man and then leaving him for someone else. .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed , .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed .postImageUrl , .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed , .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed:hover , .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed:visited , .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed:active { border:0!important; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed:active , .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u70f27c34d59387edad6724bd5a50dfed:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Part One - Shakespeare"s Alleged Blunders in Legal Terminology EssayEach woman is portrayed in a different way the first conventional the others not so conventional showing four different ways in which Elizabethan poets represented their mistresses in their poetry. Bibliography Katherine Duncan-Jones, (1997) Shakespeares Sonnets, London, Thompson Learning, pages 146/7 and 374/5 www. shakespeares-sonnets. com/Wyatt2. htm#anchor003 mths. metamora. k12. il. us/Departments/english/ronane/Renaissance%20Project/Wyatt. htm rpo. library. utoronto. ca/poem/2407. html Rachael Watkinson English 08/07/2008.

Auto Parts Industry Analysis Essay Example For Students

Auto Parts Industry Analysis Essay For example, at a trough, just before the economy begins to recover from recession, one would expect that cyclical industries, those with aboveground sensitivity to the state of the economy would tend to outperform other industries. Examples of cyclical industries are producers of durable goods, such as automobiles or washing machines, It means that sales are particularly SENSITIVE to macroeconomic conditions. Other cyclical industries are producers of capital goods. Goods used by other firms to produce their own products. These above written facts are absolutely related to the auto parts industry, which could mean that their industry should be very sensitive comparing to other industries, In English the UAPITA goods industry is going to bear the brunt of slowdown BLITZ does well in an expansion, have used historical data of the five stocks to calculate sigma, betas etc. Based on realized returns eve can estimate mean returns and volatility as well as the tendency for security return s to co-vary_ Company Information about the researched firms: American Inc. ARGON: Nasdaq; Cyclical Consumer Goods Services/Auto / Truck / Motorcycle Parts American Incorporated (American) designs, develops and markets products based on its advanced, efficient thermoelectric device (TED) cosmologies for a range of global markets and heating and cooling applications. The Companys principal product is Climate Control Seat (CSS), which it sells to automobile and light truck original equipment manufacturers or their tier one suppliers. The CSS provides year-round comfort to automotive seat occupants by producing both active heating and cooling. As of December 2009, it had shipped approximately 5. 3 million units of its CSS product to customers. Its CSS product is offered as an optional or standard feature on 44 automobile models produced by Ford Motor Company General Motors, Toyota Motor Corporation, Ionians, Data Motors, Ltd. And Hounded, Epic] American stock prices started to fall at the beginning of 2008 . In my understanding it means that they depends on General Motors very much, and that time GM has not so good performance. They lost their competitive advantage and this is showed via chart in case of American as well, Half year later the financial crisis hit them till the bottom, but as you can see and thanks for interventions and bailouts they started to come back very nicely. However the stock price is still the half ( 7,5$ ) as it was. Williams Controls Inc. WOMB: Nasdaq; Cyclical Consumer Goods Services/Auto / Truck Motorcycle Parts Williams Controls, Inc. Designs, manufactures and sells electronic throttle controls and pneumatic controls, and the Company has begun selling electronic sensors for heavy trucks, transit buses and off-road equipment. The Company also produces a line of pneumatic control products, which are sold to the same customer base as its electronic throttle controls. These pneumatic products are used for vehicle control system applications, such as power take-offs and air- control applications. The Company also sells sensors as separate product line, which includes two sensor technologies: contacting and Nan-contacting. The Company sells the majority of its products directly to heavy truck, transit bus and off-road original equipment manufacturers worldwide, Its customers include The Volvo Group, Pacer, Inc. Daimler Trucks AN, Invariants International Corporation, Caterpillar, Inc. And Hounded Motor, Co. WOMB stock prices shows fall in the early 2008. As have mentioned before, this was the beginning of the crisis of American Automobile industry. The stock prices were declining dramatically after 15 Swept 2008. For them the worst time was at the beginning of 2003. Commercial Vehicle Group Inc. CIVIC: Nasdaq ; Cyclical Consumer Goods Services/Auto / Truck / Motorcycle Commercial Vehicle Group, Inc. C.V.) Is a supplier of fully integrated system solutions for the global commercial vehicle market, including the heavy-duty truck market, the construction and agriculture markets and the specialty and military transportation markets. The Companys products include static and suspension seat systems, electronic wire harness assemblies, controls and switches, cab structures and components, interior trim systems (including instrument panels, door panels, headliners, cabinetry and floor systems), mirrors ND wiper systems specifically designed for applications in commercial vehicles. Alexander the great EssayAfter the financial crisis maybe the company need more time to recover and they cannot invest into other sectors so the impact of financial crisis so more serious than by their competitors. Returns shows contract low level. BETA Beta is also a measure of risk and the sensitivity of stocks returns to the return on the market portfolio. Have calculated beta and on the figures it performs as the slope of the diagram. The benchmark is SSP 500, however was thinking about seeing NasDaQ According to the CAMP beta is a systematic sis that cannot be diversified away. We hue to know that beta is measuring the covariance movement and not the volatility. Have provided graphs to illustrate betas better_let also shows r-square, which means that in practice 0. 03565 means that 3. 56% of the stocks performance is explained by its risk exposure, as measured by bet Analyzing Beta of stocks table it seems that in most cases the risk = beta has grown after 15 Swept 2008. ARGON 2,2565 increased to 2,4891. The most significant rise Of beta was CIVIC from I , AS to 2,39. As CIVIC stock diagram shows they are still on low level. Why has decreased betas of WOMB and FAYS As know beta shows risk, so in financial crisis every company should show bigger beta as in the previous period. EVEN so beta so WOMB and FAYS has decreased which financially means that these stock are not so risky as they were before. Could explain it as a reaction of the bailouts and the sensitivity. The US government reacted firstly for the crisis. The big Automobile manufacturers were helped , so as Auto parts industry depends on auto manufacturers, the bailouts has a very good effect for the stocks of capital goods sector.

Global Leaders free essay sample

For my essay I chose Nicolas Sarkozy, who is the President of the French Republic. I would describe Nicolas Sarkozy’s leadership style as visionary, affiliative, commanding and pacesetting. Nicolas Sarkozy has a reputation as being â€Å"confident and fast-paced† and â€Å"aggressive†. I would consider Mr. Sarkozy as a visionary on the fact that he was once a lawyer and is close to his people. Mr. Sarkozy inspires people with his vision and reforms. Mr. Sarkozy is affiliative by boosting morale during the economies downturn by saving the French company Alstom. Mr. Sarkozy would be considered commanding and pacesetting on the bases that he is very focus driven and has high standards that he expects to be done when he wants them done. I chose to compare U. S. President Barack Obama to French Republic President Nicolas Sarkozy. I would consider President Obama as the â€Å"new school† style of leadership as opposed to President Sarkozy’s â€Å"old school† style of leadership. We will write a custom essay sample on Global Leaders or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page I would describe Mr. Obama’s leadership as visionary, coaching, democratic. Mr. Obama and Mr. Sarkozy leadership styles defer in that President Obama is not an aggressive leader but instead puts more effort into the visionary, coaching, and democratic approach to get the people’s value and support. While President Sarkozy has a more my way or the highway approach and more effort is put towards the affiliative, pacesetting and commanding leadership style. Both Presidents have a common style of being visionaries; they spend time in inspiring their people on the course that should be taken.

Boston matrix analysis for BHP Billiton Group The WritePass Journal

Boston matrix analysis for BHP Billiton Group Abstract Boston matrix analysis for BHP Billiton Group . This aspect prompted the company to follow a question mark strategy because despite its low market share, the provision of various natural resources took place in a high growing market (Schemerhorn, 2013). However, at the end of 2012, the corporation gradually started expanding its share prices by representing an adequate price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio. This means that the group has focused on following a star strategy in its main segments. Yet, it is challenging to estimate the market price for each product due to the extensive diversity of the company’s products (Grant, 2013). Another challenge associated with the quantification of returns is the categorisation of returns in different currencies. As previously indicated, BHP Billiton Group placed importance on location when it comes to making investments. In the United States, the corporation has been extensively concerned to adhere to a star strategy on the Boston matrix by distributing crude petroleum (BHP Billiton Ltd., 2013). It is essential to note that the company relies on its current strength of occupying a leading position in global commodities prices that are related to the health of the international economy. This suggests the potential of the corporation to predominantly follow a star strategy, which would guarantee it a better position compared to other organisations operating in the same industry sector (Grant, 2013). Nonetheless, the company is unable to predict currency assessments, which may lead to the adoption of a cash cow or a question mark strategy according to the Boston matrix. It has been indicated that certain flaws in the global economy negatively affect the performance of the corporation in the sen se of decreasing its market share in certain segments. For instance, such flaws may lead to a reduced demand for commodities, which may directly reflect in lower prices and reduced profitability of the company. The diverse portfolio of assets provided by BHP Billiton Group has assumed a solid market position of the company in its major segments. It is important to note that the corporation occupies a leading position in the trade of uranium in Australia after Olympic Dam Mine as well as of other natural assets, such as silver and copper (BHP Billiton Ltd., 2013). This places the company at a quite favourable position regarding its trade activities and thus it is more likely to adopt a star strategy in its home country. The fact that the corporation is a leading producer of nickel globally is indicative of the high market share it has in different segments and in different locations across the world (Stern and Deimler, 2006). As a result of the application of the Boston matrix analysis to the performance of BHP Billiton Group, it can be suggested that the company has the potential to make a substantial impact on the global delivery of natural assets. Its position as a star in most of its seg ments and in most locations shows solid management and leadership practices present at the organisation. It is important to note that the major purpose of the Boston matrix analysis is to help BHP Billiton Group decide which of its business units should be kept as well as in which areas it can invest further (Grant, 2013). There are different strategies to be applied considering that the organisation is in the position of a cash cow on the Boston matrix. One of these strategies is to hold in order to maintain its sales or market share (Schermerhorn, 2013). Another strategy that can be utilised is to defend its position regardless of the challenges the company faces with regards to its market share and projected market growth (Kotler, 2006). BHP Billiton Group can also implement a strategy, which is identified as ‘milk’, implying that the company is expected to use the cash it generated in the fiscal year to return to its position as a star on the matrix from the period of 2011 to 2012 (BHP Billiton Ltd., 2013). The fact that the company is at the position of a cash cow means that its profitability ratios have significantly declined. For instance, the organisation’s net profit margin, operating profit margin, ROE and ROA deteriorated in the period from 2011 to 2012 and from 2012 to 2013. It can be suggested that the company should seriously rethink its position in the market so as to try its best to restore its star position from the past (Schermerhorn, 2013). The application of the Boston matrix analysis to BHP Billiton Group’s performance yields significant conclusions about the company’s challenges and opportunities that can be addressed. Conclusion This paper has provided an analysis of BHP Billiton Group’s financial performance based on the Boston matrix. It has been indicated that the organisation is currently at the position of a cash cow on the matrix considering its high market share and low growing market (Kotler, 2006). Certain strategies have been provided so that the organisation can implement them in order to improve its position and return to the status of a star, which represents an ideal combination of a high market share and fast growing market (Grant, 2013). References BHP Billiton Ltd. (2013). Stock Analysis on Net [online]. Available at: stock-analysis-on.net/NYSE/Company/BHP-Billiton-Ltd/Financial-Statement/Income-Statement [Accessed: 14 August 2014]. Grant, R. M. (2013). Contemporary Strategy Analysis. New York: Wiley. Kotler, P. (2006). Marketing Management. New York: Pearson Education. Schermerhorn, J. R. (2013). Exploring Management. New York: Wiley. Stern, C. W. and Deimler, M. S. (2006). The Boston Consulting Group on Strategy: Classic Concepts and New Perspectives. New York: Wiley.

Using formative assessments as an educational leader Assignment

Using formative assessments as an educational leader - Assignment Example For success, students need to understand the goal of learning and the criteria for arriving at this goal. To ensure students understand who they are, the teacher could choose to use student work or classroom tests (Tuttle 2009). Observations test a students’ ability to learn and understand. It involves more than just a stroll in the classroom when students are undertaking a problem. It comes in hand in assisting teachers gather and record evidence to be used as evidence of student learning which is used as a tool for instructional planning. Questioning strategies when embedded in a lesson planning provides the teacher with significant insight into the degree of understanding of a student. Such questions are useful ion engaging students in classroom dialogue that expand their learning. According to Tuttle (2009), self and peer assessment creates a learning community in class. Student keep track of important information to help them in understanding important concepts learned in class. This does not only engage students but helps them know where they started gauge their progress in the learning process. Formative assessment thus provides information needed teaching and learning while it is actually in

Strategic Perspectives Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words - 1

Strategic Perspectives - Essay Example Moreover, micro environmental analysis signifies that in the current scenario there is considerable lower level of threat of substitute for Tesla. Whereas, the application of fund towards the CSR activities, reputation management through high level of innovation, and conserving towards the ethical issues helps Tesla to overcome from the financial crisis situation. Nevertheless, the report identifies that diversifying the business activities in other segment; divestment or reengineering strategies in the loss making units, and enhancing the specification of vehicles based on customer perception will assist the company to earn competitive advantage in future. The prior aim of the report is to evaluate the provided case scenario of Tesla Motors in order to present the strategic position in the global environment. Additionally, in the current global competitive environment, the phenomenon of globalisation has significantly influenced various global business organisations and led them to undertake their business operation further than their domestic territories. Correspondingly, the international business accordingly response to the changing scenario through taking diversified strategic choices and decision making in order to maintain its competitive advantage in the global environment (Hill, 2006). Tesla Motors founded in the year 2003 named after Nikola Tesla one of the inventor of electric AC induction motor. Since, its formation company has attained unprecedented growth and expansion in their competitive position. Besides, company engage itself in designs, production, and distribution of electric cars and its components. Furthermore, du ring the year 2014, company earned US$ 3.198 billion revenue (1Tesla Motors, Inc., 2014). Correspondingly, the aim of the report is to evaluate and analyse the strategic prospective of Tesla Motors in the

Research report assisting a client in a career choice Proposal

Report assisting a client in a career choice - Research Proposal Example Following is a report of the interview that was carried out in response to his order. The main aim of this interview was to help the client follow the correct path in developing his career. The report covers a large scope including his personality and skills suitability, alternatives available to him, the constraint which may deter him from achieving his career and the value that the client would like to obtain from the choice of his career. Sources of the information that were used in giving advice to the client embody records of previous works with some of our clients, career books, and other web sites that cover issues on career alternatives. The report covers the information obtained from the client through an interview, opportunities available for the client, a recommendation of the best choice for him and a conclusion. The interview I carried out with the client was designed with the aim of enquiring on the issues he wanted tackled. The client explained that he needed the help of the firm in developing the correct path for his career. He explained that he needed to have a good understanding on the best career that suited him, the pay and how he could possibly develop it to greater heights. The client is an 18 year old, Black-American boy whose parents do no have access to unaffordable counseling service. He is an 11th grader learning at an English high school in a traditionally advantaged area. The school is dominated by white teachers. The client’s language preference is English with French as a second choice. He is the only child from his family. His parents were divorced and now both married. He has a half sister and three half brothers who are all younger than him. His father is self trained auto-mechanic who runs an own business from his house. His mother, a ninth grader, works as a ho usekeeper in a white’s home. Although the father and the mother are in disagreement on the field that their son should

The Social Glue Through Organisational Culture Commerce Essay

The Social Glue Through Organisational Culture Commerce Essay Organizational Culture is defined as the social glue holding the company together. Social scientists call it culture or the underlying set of informal norms and values that govern employee behaviour. But regardless of the name, more and more evidence suggest that it is important, often critically so (Baker, 1980) pg51. Culture consists of three layers values, beliefs and taken for granted assumptions. Many authors still argue over the meaning of organizational culture, authors like (Sirmon Lane, Jul. 2004, p. 310) consider culture to be set beforehand and it dictates the attitudes and behaviours for the organizations members to exhibit, while some authors like Edward schein explain culture as a common insight held by the organizations members; a system of shared meaning and naturally if authors have different opinions on the definition then they will also argue whether culture can be managed, manipulated or cannot be consciously changed. This essay is targeted to understand culture and culture change better. Culture and Change Culture can be both weak and strong; It is usually decided by the top management and sets the tone of the entire organization. A weak culture can be of a young company or if the turnover of key personnel is high. (Baker, 1980, p. 51) . A strong culture can be seen in efficient organizations with positive employee behaviour, with minimal information transmitted in any transaction and the working pattern has a flow, a good culture can also be measured (Deal and Kennedy (1982: 15) cited by (Banish Nawaz, 2003). I feel culture can change the face of an organization, from world leaders to mere survivors. As stated by (Schein, Feburary 1983, p. 14) Culture serves the function of stabilizing the external and internal environment for an organization, it must be taught to new members. If its not carried forward, the new ideas from new members will produce a culture change. To consider a change in culture, if possible, its not as simple as it sounds. Louis V. Gerstner (2002) the CEO for IBM states in (Banish Nawaz, 2003, p. 22) you cant simply give a couple of speeches or write a credo for the company and declare that the new culture has taken hold; you have to create the conditions for transformation, provide incentives and define marketplace realities and goals. In the end management doesnt change culture; management invites the workforce itself to change the culture. The three subdivisions discussed in Managing Organizational Culture by (Ogbonna Harris, 1998) are: (i) Studies which argue that culture can be managed. (ii) Research which claims that culture may be manipulated. Â  (iii) Theory which argues that culture cannot be consciously changed (although natural change is argued to occur frequently). All three seem to be valid and vary from organization to organization. If an Organization has a stable environment then the present culture is perfect, but external conditions can bring the organization to its knees and force it to change its culture. McKinseys well known 7-s framework places culture (mentioned as shared values) into a happy atom mentioned by Peter and Waterman (1982) cited in (Banish Nawaz, 2003) pg 11, this model assumes that effectiveness of the culture of the organization: depends on 2 factors. 1st How strong the culture is, and 2nd how well culture is aligned with the other organs of the body (so called strategy-culture fit) Sub-division Present and Compare The 1st subdivision explains how theorists believe that culture is an organizational variable and can be managed. This article by (Harris Ogbonna, Vol. 27 No. 2,1998, p. 119)researched with retail organizations to understand culture better, the findings were Cultural deviation was considered unwelcome whereas cultural change was viewed as transformational rather than incremental. Managers viewed culture of the organization as a variable which could be managed, and these assumptions allowed the managers to relate organizational culture to organizational effectiveness. (Baker, 1980, p. 54) has provided some evidence that Culture can be managed, He starts the article by saying that manageable culture has a major contribution to a companys success for instance, International Business Machines (IBM) has been successful to actively cultivate and manage culture; he/she also states that the culture is largely responsible for its success for the past 30 years IBM real issue is discussed later in the essay, many other organizations tried to manage culture, (change strategy or business environment) and failed. Some culture clash problems range from diversification (ATT) to acquisition failures (Kennecott), but these are rarely fatal. The author belief in managing culture is supported by the statement that CEO and/or other top managers seem to recognize intuitively what culture they want and need; they create and maintain it by monitoring the existing culture and actively intervening where possible to reduce the gap between the desired and existing cultures. All this has been confirmed by (Schein, Feburary 1983) below, He states managing culture is possible when an understanding for dynamic evolutionary forces which govern how culture grows and changes is achieved. Author (Schein, Feburary 1983) cites (Van Maanen Schein, 1979) writing the passing on of the groups culture is strategically an important process to study If one wants to decipher what the culture is and how it might change He believes that Culture can be managed and as stated earlier, it should be taught to the new employees in order to avoid any cultural change. (Schein, Feburary 1983) states that managing culture till the end is not about controlling its members perceptions, thoughts and feelings but as the process of learning to manage the external and internal environment progresses the culture will get older which would influence our perceptions, thoughts, and feelings, but this all seemed valid until (Schumann Prestwood, 1994) below gave their argument. This article by (Schumann Prestwood, 1994, p. 1) is a brilliant piece of work supporting the argument that culture may be manipulated and explaining how its done . It states that an organizations culture is the ultimate governor of the amount and type of innovation that will take place. The organization therefore must have a way to link its culture to its market. Innovation and change go hand in hand. To compare managing culture and manipulating culture, author (Schumann Prestwood, 1994, p. 3) citing (T. J. Watson, Jr. observed in A Business and Its Beliefs) gives an idea for what happened to organizations that tried to manage culture stating, Out of the top 25 industrial corporations in the United States in 1900, only 2 remain in the selected company today, One retains its original identity; the other is a merger of seven corporations on that final list. Two of those 25 failed. Three others merged and dropped behind. The remaining 12 have continued in business, but each has fallen substantially in its standing. The challenge for organizations today is the transformation of its culture so that organization can endure and grow though current revolution. The author gives an extension of the IBM example above; stating IBM survived the past due to a very successful business model but as the environment shifted, it failed; now IBM is developing a new business model to survive with the top leaders, its fate is discusses later in this subdivision. The only way to change quickly an organization must meet the customer demands, stay technologically competent, effectively deal with competition and respond to the pressures of change both from within and without. This Figure 8 below from (Schumann Prestwood, 1994, p. 10) explains how the existence of a strong organizational culture ensures the resistance of the organization to change. The authors argument is completed with a point that culture must have built into a flexible methodology for change, comprising of components like: A clear and compelling vision, strategic planning for the operation, technology and people, integrative management approaches etc. For those cases where change was not anticipated, a strong but flexible culture will enable a rapid response. (Cameron Quinn, 1999, p. 6) Have also written an exceptional piece of work, their book gives a wide view of how the current literature claims an organization works and how it actually works. Author supports the view point culture can be manipulated. Since its long term, a strategy must be developed for changing it. The article claims that between managing and manipulating culture culture can be managed point of view always leads to the downfall of a company. Out of the largest 100 Companies in the 1900s only 16 are still in existence. Of the firms on Fortune Magazines first list of 500 biggest companies, only 29 firms would still be included. During the last decade, 46 percent of Fortune 500 dropped off the list. Author writes that A musical greeting card that plays Happy Birthday has more computer power than existed in the entire world before 1950. The average watch contains more computing power than existed in the entire world before 1960. Such rapid and dramatic change implies that no organization can remain the same for long and survive. Top companies on the Fortune Magazine failed due to slow, laggard or wrongheaded change efforts. The companies in 1991 spent more money on computing and communications gear than the combined monies spent on industrial, farm, construction equipment etc And in the 1960s, approximately half of the workers in industrialized countries were involved in making things, by the year 2000, it is estimated that no developed country will have more than one eighth of its workforce in the traditional roles of making and moving goods. (Cameron Quinn, 1999, p. 6) Culture looks like its thought of as how things are done around here sometimes it remains undetectable as employees dont realise this practise. The current challenge for an organization is not to determine whether or not to change, but how to change in order to increase organizational effectiveness. (Banish Nawaz, 2003, p. 19) have given further explanation on the IBM issue, during the Great Depression of the 1930s IBM survived the impact and grew as it received a steady income from the business machinery that was leased or rented, at the same time CEO Thomas J. Watson, Jr. (1990) started benefits and vacations for his employees that paid off in 1936 when they started supplying to the US government. IBM remained successful as employees didnt stay at the organization for employment but for security and way of life. IBM was successful in managing its culture until 1980s but a cultural change was desperately needed. In the 1980s IBM got a culture change. Louis V. Gerstner (2002) was appointed the new CEO in 1993 to manipulate change and he states (Banish Nawaz, 2003) Culture isnt just one aspect of the game it is the game Gerstners states Management doesnt change culture, management invites the workforce itself to change the culture. (Cummings Worley, 2009, p. 522) gives some example. Company with a difficult but successful culture change can be Alberto Culver (Manufacturing Skin and Hair Products) where process took 6 to 15 years, in some cases managing culture isnt the answer changing it is, for example the Disney case; when they tried to export the same culture to euro Disney, the European people preferred to drink wine with their meal and Disneys not serving alcohol policy resulted in low attendance for both labour and customers. Four seasons hotel and resort were on the same track but were successful as they just changed their norms, procedures and artefacts to fit with the French culture and keeping their core values same. Managing culture and manipulating culture (despite its drawbacks) are often the only 2 options considered in an organization even by many theorists. The third subdivision below isnt even mentioned as an option to consider. Finally the third sub-division that claims that culture cannot be consciously changed seems a little untrue but well supported, very little information is available for this subdivision According (Ogbonna Harris, 1998, p. 274) this subdivision argues that whilst the culture of organization can and does change, the direction, impact and sustainability of the change cannot be subject to the conscious action of management. (Senior Swailes, 2010) claims that this presents problems for change agents who will perhaps need some external and perhaps unpredictable forces to make it happen. Author (Meek, 1988) writes, what culture cannot be consciously changed actually means, he/she states that Social theorists use the term culture to embrace all that is human within the organization. They emphasize culture, either consciously or unconsciously, in such a way as to blur or hide problems and contradictions inherent in the social structure. Both culture and social structure are abstractions, not tangible entities. The author firmly sticks to the argument that culture cannot be consciously changed and writes that culture can be managed or changed views seem valid because many discipline copy concepts from another discipline which results in concepts becoming a stereotype. Author (Turner 1986) cited by (Meek, 1988) gives the idea that culture is the collectible consciousness of the organization, owned by the management and available to management for manipulation; this is also thought by many authors. Author (Meek, 1988) contradicts this stating that concepts have been copied (as stated above) and theories of organizational culture have their roots in structural-functionalism, but they have been mutated; in the process of application. Culture as a whole cannot be manipulated, turned on and off, although it needs to be recognized that some are in a better position than others to attempt to intentionally influence aspects of it (Meek, 1988). To compare this with the other 2 subdivisions, it seems a little true, but culture may be manipulated subdivision has provided some evidence of such effect. Conclusion To conclude organizations fate depends on the culture, weak or strong and all three subdivisions have been justified beautifully by various author. Managing culture seems genuine with many theorists providing theory on how to avoid any cultural change but 2nd subdivision as the name suggests Research which claims that culture may be manipulated has provided evidence of organizations on how manipulating culture is the only way to survive, the 3rd subdivision seems to be a third side to a two sided coin, where authors explain how various authors have copied and altered studies. All together this essay gives a great idea about culture and its change subdivisions. I personally feel that manipulating culture is the way to go, can managers change an organizations culture? Yes for instance the Euro Disney and Four seasons hotel case and also with the technological advancements and pressure of external factors, no organization can stay the same and survive. Overall this essay comprising of s mall parts has shown a big picture about cultural change.

Barium Enema Essay -- essays research papers fc

Everyone should know that a lower GI is a very common and important exam used to diagnose many colon conditions. A lower GI examination, also know as a barium enema, is an x-ray examination of the large intestine. The large intestine, or large bowel, consists of the entire colon, including the appendix, rectum, and sigmoid colon. This commonly performed test is essentially the predecessor to the more familiar colonoscopy. A lower GI is used worldwide to help diagnose fatal diseases and many other problems that affect the large intestine. Some of the reasons that your doctor might order this exam are if you are experiencing diarrhea, constipation, blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, anemia, to screen for colon polyps or colorectal cancer. Because this test demonstrates the large bowel, it is imperative to clean out the bowel completely. The smallest amount of stool left in the intestine can affect the accuracy of the test. To ensure the colon is cleaned the patient is instructed to be on a clear liquid diet for 24 hours prior to the exam. They are also instructed to take a strong laxative the day before. Most patients say that the preparation for the exam is the worst part. Before the test is started an x-ray of the abdomen is taken to check for residual stool and gas. If there is too much stool remaining in the bowel, the patient will have to be rescheduled, and take the laxative prep again. A barium enema test is done by a radiologist and one or two radiographe...

Classroom Assessment in Fifth Grade Science Essay

A study was conducted to explore the hypothesis that performance assessments foster a more positive motivational orientation for students than supplied-response assessments which tend to truncate students’ learning strategies (Parkes & Stefanou, 2003). This was in response to general dissatisfaction arising from large-scale, high-stakes multiple choice testing, particularly among the older students who experienced higher levels of anxiety and mistrust with respect to standardized tests.   It partook of a cost-benefit analysis of the consequences of this particular type of assessment procedure to determine whether the positive outweighed the negative. Traditional paper and pencil tests (P&P), a laboratory task format of assessment (lab), and a performance assessment (PA) were imposed on three different fifth grade science classes, particularly involving Goal Orientations to supply quantitative data.   Qualitative output was also obtained through taped interviews of the three classes.   Quantitatively, goal orientation seemed to be influenced by the type of assessment used. When paired with the qualitative data, students seemed to perform well in P&P testing because they equated a good grade with competence and ability, and they believed that performing well in P&P testing reflected this competency (Parkes & Stefanou, 2003).   However, if receiving grades was removed from the equation, students became more receptive to PA testing and were motivated to take risks and explore actually doing science rather than just knowing science (Parkes & Stefanou, 2003). One of the limitations of the study was that qualitative information was necessary to complete the picture presented by the quantitative data.   Although the study was by no means definitive as to whether or not assessment types contributed to student motivation, it clearly showed that when paired with the stakes or consequences attributed to the assessment results, it affects the students’ goal orientations. Reference List Parkes, J. and Stefanou, C. (2003). Effects of classroom assessment on student motivation on fifth-grade science. The Journal of Educational Research, 96 (3), 152-162.

My talent essays

My talent essays The stage is an ocean of light giving off the pale reflection of the illumination above. An audience waits with anticipation for the next performer. The rhythm of music arises like a thundering clap of lightening. My heart thumps like the fast beat of an exotic drum, my palms moistened with beads of sweat and my cheeks burn scarlet, as red as the scorching sun. I surrender to the music, allowing it to soak into my pores like a wet sponge. It devours at my anxiety and modifies my mood, to one of pure delight. The stage is mine. I flow away from my frustrations that boil under my skin and express it through fluent, coordinated movement. Dancing like a raging wind, twisting like a snake around its prey, becoming apart of the music. The audience captivated in the spell of my dance. One, two step, one, two spin, one, two kick. I hear the counts echo in my mind as I lead arm after leg across the stage. I gaze out into the spectators watchful eyes as my hip sways to the familiar beat. Foreign, this place is not. Like mother's arms, it eases me, as droplets of perspiration roll down my chest. A smile sketches its way across my face as I realize there is nothing in the world I'd rather be doing. I love to dance. A roar of Go, Jamie resonates its way onto the stage, and my ears receive with a passion to continue. This is the core of my solo. As the lights dimmed and quickly went out, the hall began to tremble with excitement. I started with a slow movement into an arabesque which just sent everyone into a frenzy. The stage seemed to move with no sign of stopping, as if trying to keep up and realign with me. My body moved devoid of the need for the minds instruction. ...

Should Parents Work When Their Children Are Very Young Essays

Should Parents Work When Their Children Are Very Young Essays Should Parents Work When Their Children Are Very Young Essay Should Parents Work When Their Children Are Very Young Essay Should both parents go out to work when their children are young? What are your views? (O-Level Nov. 2004) Crying, screaming and shouting were heard all around the room. Mike, a five-year-old boy, was grasping his motheraâ‚ ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s hand. The reluctance of the leaving of his mother coerced him to appeal to his mother to stay at home. aâ‚ ¬? Mom, please! Dad is out to work. It is enough! aâ‚ ¬? Mike begged. Here comes a controversial social problem aâ‚ ¬ should both parents go out and work when the child is still young?Parents, so-called the first teachers of the children, have crucial impacts on their children. Their presence and love for the children while they are young affect the childrenaâ‚ ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s lives massively. Some parents decide that both of them will go out to work when their children are young. This arouses the deprecation. Firstly, young children do not have the ability to live independently without the help and guidance of their parents. If both parents go out to work, there will be no one at home. Therefore, when the children meet any difficulties, problems or danger, nobody will be aware.Definitely, it is unsafe for the children. For instance, if there is a short circuit in the house, it is easy to fire the house as short circuit can cause fire. However, you may argue that the parents can hire a helper to look after the children. It is true. However, so many cases have clearly indicated the disadvantages of that option. According to the news in Chongqing, China, some domestic workers help the children to shower by putting them into washing machines, and eventually cause the deaths of children.Although the cases are not numerous, the possibility of such potential danger has never gone. Thus, with at least one of the parents at home, one can ensure that the children are safe at home. Secondly, love form parents can never be substituted by other people. The young need the care and love form parents. With parentsaâ‚ ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ love, the young will have the courage to be brave when faced with a difficulty. Some people say that parents display their love as their children when they come after work.However, the long duration of being alone during the day time may leave a dark shadow in childrenaâ‚ ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s hearts. Furthermore, if at least one parent says at home with the child, the parent can conduct home education for the child. To bring early education to the child is to give the child an edge in cognitive development. Of course, this job can be done by having a tutor at home. However, the tutor only teaches knowledge from the textbook. He does not provide the moral education. To be a successful man, we know that morality and a good personality are crucial.However, I have to admit that if both parents go out to work, the children may become and better able independent to handle most of the things themselves. Inculcating independence in a child is a necessary life skill. Nevertheless, independence can be inculcated through other means like asking him to place his own order of food during an outing to Pizza Hut. In conclusion, there are advantages to be reaped from having both parents working, the disadvantages far more outgrowth the advantages.

Song of hummingbird Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Song of hummingbird - Essay Example Presently, scholars refer this ancient ruler using numerous and varying names due to divergence in spellings, which include Montezuma and montecuhzoma (â€Å"Aztec-history.com†). Born approximately around 1466, presently stands being among the most esteemed kings of that region before Spanish invading his region and rendered it into ruins in terms of influence he had. Some of the aspects scholars cite to have enabled this icon to be distinguishable was his wisdom and territory he managed to instill order. This is because of his controversial nature coupled with fine and critical judgeme4nts concerning the future though the emergency of Spanish was somehow tricky to him. However, his mode of aggregating power under him was extremely remarkable and uncommon during his time, which leaders of today and scholars remember him for. Contrary to numerous political icons, he was an industrious person an attribute that enabled him achieve much during his time. However, his demise was disgrace whereby up to date no one knows exactly what was its cause. Some contend it was his people because of having lost power of the empire whereas others cite it was the

Paper 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Paper 2 - Essay Example Disgruntled Kenyans felt that they could rely on the judiciary hence took matters into their hands. The Kenyan presidential system has a very strong President hence it is prone to corruption that destabilizes the democracy. The author states that the Kenyan election had very apparent, and visible irregularities since the President and his people wanted to cling to power by all means possible (Khazan, 2013). The President further has total immunity against any legal actions hence neither the legislature nor the executive can check and regulate the president’s authority. Developing countries such as Kenya have diverse ethnic groups. In the Kenyan case, the Kikuyus and the Luos are the main ethnic groups that define the electoral processes. Kenyans vote for personalities rather than ideologies hence most political parties are merely ethnic vehicles into power. The country has a high poverty due to a weak economy as well as runaway corruption (Khazan, 2013). Most ethnic groups, therefore, view a win by their presidential candidate as a means for them to secure civil service jobs, government tenders as well as other favors. The opposing side sees the loss as a blow because the ruling government awards economic incentives according to ethnicity and political alignment (Khazan, 2013). Khazan, O. (2013, Mar 5). What Causes Some Elections to Go Violent? The Atlantic. Retrieved from

In My Life Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

In My Life - Essay Example On a personal point of view, the family, workmates, associates and other people with interaction are commonly whom friendships are established. There are different types of friendships on the basis of associations. One of the relationships that I give importance to is the friendship established with family members such as my mother and sister. The said friendship can be classified as deep and emotional (Pangle 37-39). This can be attributed to the fact that the relationship tied by blood is strengthened by the friendship. In addition, in terms of the friendship with my mother it is of higher regard and respect as compared to the friendship with my sister which can be considered as a relaxed interaction with the added understanding of being a sibling. The friendships that had been established with work associates which in my case are that of the members of the military can be considered as another type of relationship of positive influence (Pangle 37-39). Commonly, such friends are the people in the workplace who can be considered with ease of interaction, initially in relation to the job. They can in turn lead to lifetime friendships. Based on personal experience, the friendships from profession can be considered trustworthy on the basis of the events of being in similar danger specifically in the military. The said people commonly share the same passion for a particular field or area of expertise wherein the connection can be attributed. Another set of friendships that I considered of importance are the friends from school. School friendships can be limited to the campus but then the said relationships can also be the longest affiliation since some friendships can survive through adult life. The said group is composed of the people that can be classified as buddies, intellectual friends and even self –actualized friends. Basically, in my life the typical

Vector Graphics Essay Example for Free

Vector Graphics Essay Vector graphics is the use of geometrical primitives such as points, lines, curves, and shapes or polygon(s), which are all based on mathematical expressions, to represent images in computer graphics. Vector, in this context, implies more than a straight line. Vector graphics are based on images made up of vectors (also called paths, or strokes) which lead through locations called control points. Each of these points has a definite position on the x and y axes of the work plan. Each point, as well, is a variety of database, including the location of the point in the work space and the direction of the vector (which is what defines the direction of the track). Each track can be assigned a color, a shape, a thickness and also a fill. This does not affect the size of the files in a substantial way because all information resides in the structure; it describes how to draw the vector. Same as object-oriented graphics, refers to software and hardware that use geometrical formulas to represent images. The other method for representing graphical images is through bit maps, in which the image is composed of a pattern of dots. This is sometimes called raster graphics. Programs that enable you to create and manipulate vector graphics are called draw programs, whereas programs that manipulated bit-mapped images are called paint programs. Vector-oriented images are more flexible than bit maps because they can be resized and stretched. In addition, images stored as vectors look better ondevices (monitors and printers) with higher resolution, whereas bit-mapped images always appear the same regardless of a devices resolution. Another advantage of vector graphics is that representations of images often require less memory than bit-mapped images do. Almost all sophisticated graphics systems, including CADD systems andanimation software, use vector graphics. In addition, many printers (PostScriptprinters, for example) use vector graphics. Fonts represented as vectors are called vector fonts, scalable fonts, object-oriented fonts, and outline fonts. Note that most output devices, including dot-matrix printers, laser printers, and display monitors, are raster devices (plotters are the notable exception). This means that all objects, even vector objects, must be translated into bit maps before being output. The difference between vector graphics and raster graphics, therefore, is that vector graphics are not translated into bit maps until the last possible moment, after all sizes and resolutions have been specified. PostScript printers, for example, have a raster image processor (RIP) that performs the translation within the printer. In their vector form, therefore, graphics representations can potentially be output on any device, with any resolution, and at any size. Raster Graphics In computer graphics, a raster graphics image, or bitmap, is a dot matrix data structure representing a generallyrectangular grid of pixels, or points of color, viewable via a monitor, paper, or other display medium. Raster images are stored in image files with varying formats A bitmap corresponds bit-for-bit with an image displayed on a screen, generally in the same format used for storage in the displays video memory, or maybe as a device-independent bitmap. A bitmap is technically characterized by the width and height of the image in pixels and by the number of bits per pixel (a color depth, which determines the number of colors it can represent). The printing and prepress industries know raster graphics as contones (from continuous tones). The opposite to contones is line work, usually implemented as vector graphics in digital systems. What is the difference between vector and raster graphics? Answer: The difference between vector and raster graphics is that raster graphics are composed of pixels, while vector graphics are composed of paths. A raster graphic, such as a gif or jpeg, is an array of pixels of various colors, which together form an image. A vector graphic, such as an . eps file or Adobe Illustrator? file, is composed of paths, or lines, that are either straight or curved. The data file for a vector image contains the points where the paths start and end, how much the paths curve, and the colors that either border or fill the paths. Because vector graphics are not made of pixels, the images can be scaled to be very large without losing quality. Raster graphics, on the other hand, become blocky, since each pixel increases in size as the image is made larger. This is why logos and other designs are typically created in vector format the quality will look the same on a business card as it will on a billboard. Vector Graphics typically are generated using drawing or illustration programs (e. g. , Adobe Illustrator) and are composed of mathematically-defined geometric shapes—lines, objects and fills. Since vectors entail both magnitude and direction, vector elements thus are comprised of line segments whose length represents magnitude and whose orientation in space represents direction. Vector graphics usually are easily modified within the creating application and generally are not affected detrimentally by scaling (enlarging or reducing their size). Because vector elements are mathematically-defined, scaling simply requires modification of their mathematical locations. However, vector files do not support photographic imagery well and often can be problematic for cross-platform exchange. Vector graphics typically are saved as EPS format. This makes vector graphics ideal for logo design. Creating a vector logo is more difficult but the effort pays for itself when the vector logo file is sent to printers or sign makers etc. The vector logo can be scaled up or down with out losing quality and would enable smooth transition between various media. Raster Graphic Images are produced by digital image capture devices: digital scanners or digital cameras, or by pixel editing programs (e. g. , Adobe Photoshop). Raster images are composed of a matrix (grid) or bitmap of digital picture elements (pixels). Pixels are squares or rectangles described as black, white, gray or color. Raster images typically are saved as TIFF format, but can be saved as EPS as well. Whereas conversion from vector to raster is easily accomplished, raster conversion to vector is much more difficult (and often is not possible). Raster images typically are easily shared across various platforms, but can be more difficult than vector graphics to modify. As well, raster graphics are impacted by scaling. Creating a raster logo design using Adobe Photoshop might be ideal for web only usage but if you are serious about branding, then the resulting raster PSD logo file will be of limited use. When sent to a printer or sign maker and when they try to scale the raster logo, the quality deteriorates and pixellation occurs. Yes, agreed, creating the raster logo design in Photoshop would enable a designer to pile on stunning effects (such as drop shadows, beveling, blurring etc). But the final deliverable will have limited uses.

Critique of Communism in Animal Farm by George Orwell Essay -- Animal

Karl Marx’s perfect society described in his Communist Manifesto is in direct conflict with the implementation of Soviet Communism, which was scathingly criticized by George Orwell’s book Animal Farm. Karl Marx believed that in order to form a just and equal society, the working class, called the proletariat, would have to overthrow those who owned the means of production, who were known as the bourgeoisie. This was to be known as the Proletariat Revolution where the oppressed laborers in capitalist societies, such as England, would unite under a common cause to overthrow the oppressive bourgeoisie, and establish a communist society. This would be a society where all were equal, each performing to his ability, and each receiving according to his needs. A dictatorship would be necessary at first to get the ball rolling, but would eventually voluntarily give up power, as it would no longer be needed. However, this was never destined to be. The rise of the Soviet Union was a testament to this, brilliantly depicted and condemned by George Orwell. Marx ended the Communist Manifesto with the fighting words â€Å"WORKING MEN OF ALL COUNTRIES, UNITE!† (Marxism, 44). This was to be the inspiration for the proletariat to band together and realize that they were being oppressed by the bourgeoisie. After they realize this, they would rebel, in which a revolution would take place where the proletariat would be victorious over the bourgeoisie. Old Major, the eldest pig in Animal Farm was the animal recreation of Karl Marx. He professed, â€Å"Whatever goes upon two legs is an enemy. Whatever goes upon four legs, or has wings, is a friend† (Orwell, 31). In this case, man is the bourgeoisie and the animals are the proletariat. Both Karl Marx and Old Maj... ...re breaking every rule that they themselves had put forth in accordance with Old Major’s revolutionary vision. Animal Farm was a mirror image of communism gone awry in the Soviet Union. It also shows Marx’s naivety of the fact that there will always be the clever that take advantage of the ignorant. By keeping the population ignorant, the clever gain even more power, which is was happened in the Soviet Union and Animal Farm. The ones that took part in the revolutions would never realize that they were holding the short end of the stick, just as they were in their previous state of affairs. They were cold, miserable, and starving. In their brainwashed state they still believed that the dismal state they were in was better than their situation before the revolution. George Orwell finished his book on a somber note, the state in which Joseph Stalin left the Soviet Union.

Admissions Essay - Potential to Contribute :: essays research papers

Risks are the essence of life. In the beginning, they are our instinct. But as we get older and gain a greater consciousness of the world around us, somewhere along the way we are presented with failure, at that point, many people try to eliminate most risks from their life. I come from a family that has had to take major risks in order to bring me to the place I am today. My parents grew up in Odessa, Ukraine, which was once a part of the Soviet Union. As children of Holocaust survivors, they were dedicated to giving their children an opportunity to enjoy freedoms of an open society, the United States. And so my parents came to this country with me, then four year-old son in November of 1990 against the advice of all their friends. They had decided that leaving Soviet Union was their only true hope of preserving our identity and raising a family outside of repressions and fear. They were risk takers and they sought a better, freer life for themselves and for their children. That was their generation. And now I am too at a critical juncture of my life, one that is quite different from my parents, but also full of difficult choices nonetheless. Dedicating the next two or three years of my life to a legal education is a risk. Certainly, paying for law school will be a hardship. However, I must also question whether my study of the law will give me the intellectual fulfillment I seek in my college life. This is an inquiry I?ve made to myself countless times. I now know that, given my varied experiences and the direction I?ve found myself taking, law school is the only true option. My parents and grandparents? experiences have left a mark on my life and I will not feel fulfilled until I am able to help others that have been in similarly trying and difficult situations. In fact, one of the ways I hope to do that is with my talent of being polylingual. Learning languages has always been very important to me and it has given me many advantages and helped in my personal growth. If I didn?t know the four languages of English, Russian, French, and Hebrew as I do today, then I would probably be a very different person. Even though my native language of Russian wasn?t something chosen by me, it is something I?

Forward the Foundation Chapter 18

13 â€Å"Yes,† said Hari Seldon wearily, â€Å"it was a great triumph. I had a wonderful time. I can hardly wait until I'm seventy so I can repeat it. But the fact is, I'm exhausted.† â€Å"So get yourself a good night's sleep, Dad,† said Raych, smiling. â€Å"That's an easy cure.† â€Å"I don't know how well I can relax when I have to see our great leader in a few days.† â€Å"Not alone, you won't see him,† said Dors Venabili grimly. Seldon frowned. â€Å"Don't say that again, Dors. It is important for me to see him alone.† â€Å"It won't be safe with you alone. Do you remember what happened ten years ago when you refused to let me come with you to greet the gardeners?† â€Å"There is no danger of my forgetting when you remind me of it twice a week, Dors. In this case, though, I intend to go alone. What can he want to do to me if I come in as an old man, utterly harmless, to find out what he wants?† â€Å"What do you imagine he wants?† said Raych, biting at his knuckle. â€Å"I suppose he wants what Cleon always wanted. It will turn out that he has found out that psychohistory can, in some way, predict the future and he will want to use it for his own purposes. I told Cleon the science wasn't up to it nearly thirty years ago and I kept telling him that all through my tenure as First Minister-and now I'll have to tell General Tennar the same thing.† â€Å"How do you know he'll believe you?† said Raych. â€Å"I'll think of some way of being convincing.† Dors said, â€Å"I do not wish you to go alone.† â€Å"Your wishing, Dors, makes no difference.† At this point, Tamwile Elar interrupted. He said, â€Å"I'm the only nonfamily person here. I don't know if a comment from me would be welcome.† â€Å"Go ahead,† said Seldon. â€Å"Come one, come all.† â€Å"I would like to suggest a compromise. Why don't a number of us go with the Maestro. Quite a few of us. We can act as his triumphal escort, a kind of finale to the birthday celebration. Now wait, I don't mean that we will all crowd into the General's offices. I don't even mean entering the Imperial Palace grounds. We can just take hotel rooms in the Imperial Sector at the edge of the grounds-the Dome's Edge Hotel would be just right-and we'll give ourselves a day of pleasure.† â€Å"That's just what I need,† snorted Seldon. â€Å"A day of pleasure.† â€Å"Not you, Maestro,† said Elar at once. â€Å"You'll be meeting with General Tennar. The rest of us, though, will give the people of the Imperial Sector a notion of your popularity-and perhaps the General will take note also. And if he knows we're all waiting for your return, it may keep him from being unpleasant.† There was a considerable silence after that. Finally Raych said, â€Å"It sounds too showy to me. It don't fit in with the image the world has of Dad.† But Dors said, â€Å"I'm not interested in Hari's image. I'm interested in Hari's safety. It strikes me that if we cannot invade the General's presence or the Imperial grounds, then allowing ourselves to accumulate, so to speak, as near the General as we can, might do us well. Thank you, Dr. Elar, for a very good suggestion.† â€Å"I don't want it done,† said Seldon. â€Å"But I do,† said Dors, â€Å"and if that's as close as I can get to offering you personal protection, then that much I will insist on.† Manella, who had listened to it all without comment till then, said, â€Å"Visiting the Dome's Edge Hotel could be a lot of fun.† â€Å"It's not fun I'm thinking of,† said Dors, â€Å"but I'll accept your vote in favor.† And so it was. The following day some twenty of the higher echelon of the Psychohistory Project descended on the Dome's Edge Hotel, with rooms overlooking the open spaces of the Imperial Palace grounds. The following evening Hari Seldon was picked up by the General's armed guards and taken off to the meeting. At almost the same time Dors Venabili disappeared, but her absence was not noted for a long time. And when it was noted, no one could guess what had happened to her and the gaily festive mood turned rapidly into apprehension. 14 Dors Venabili had lived on the Imperial Palace grounds for ten years. As wife of the First Minister, she had entry to the grounds and could pass freely from the dome to the open, with her fingerprints as the pass. In the confusion that followed Cleon's assassination, her pass had never been removed and now when, for the first time since that dreadful clay, she wanted to move from the dome into the open spaces of the grounds, she could do so. She had always known that she could do so easily only once, for, upon discovery, the pass would be canceled-but this was the one time to do it. There was a sudden darkening of the sky as she moved into the open and she felt a distinct lowering of the temperature. The world under the dome was always kept a little lighter during the night period than natural night would require and was kept a little dimmer during the day period. And, of course, the temperature beneath the dome was always a bit milder than the outdoors. Most Trantorians were unaware of this, for they spent their entire lives under the dome. To Dors it was expected, but it didn't really matter. She took the central roadway, into which the dome opened at the site of the Dome's Edge Hotel. It was, of course, brightly lit, so that the darkness of the sky didn't matter at all. Dors knew that she would not advance a hundred meters along the roadway without being stopped, less perhaps in the present paranoid lays of the junta. Her alien presence would be detected at once. Nor was she disappointed. A small ground-car skittered up and the guardsman shouted out the window, â€Å"What are you doing here? Where are you going?† Dors ignored the question and continued to walk. The guardsman called out, â€Å"Halt!† Then he slammed on the brakes and stepped out of the car, which was exactly what Dors had wanted him to do. The guardsman was holding a blaster loosely in his hand-not threatening to use it, merely demonstrating its existence. He said, â€Å"Your reference number.† Dors said, â€Å"I want your car.† â€Å"What!† The guardsman sounded outraged. â€Å"Your reference number. Immediately!† And now the blaster came up. Dors said quietly, â€Å"You don't need my reference number,† then she walked toward the guardsman. The guardsman took a backward step. â€Å"If you don't stop and present your reference number, I'll blast you.† â€Å"No! Drop your blaster.† The guardsman's lips tightened. His finger began to edge toward the contact, but before he could reach it, he was lost. He could never describe afterward what happened in any accurate way. All he could say was â€Å"How was I to know it was The Tiger Woman?† (The time came when he would be proud of the encounter.) â€Å"She moved so fast, I didn't see exactly what she did or what happened. One moment I was going to shoot her down-I was sure she was some sort of madwoman-and the next thing I knew, I was completely overwhelmed.† Dors held the guardsman in a firm grip, the hand with the blaster forced high. She said, â€Å"Either drop the blaster at once or I will break your arm.† The guardsman felt a kind of death grip around his chest that all but prevented him from breathing. Realizing he had no choice, he dropped the blaster. Dors Venabili released him, but before the guardsman could make a move to recover, he found himself facing his own blaster in Dors's hand. Dors said, â€Å"I hope you've left your detectors in place. Don't try to report what's happened too quickly. You had better wait and decide what it is you plan to tell your superiors. The fact that an unarmed woman took your blaster and your car may well put an end to your usefulness to the junta.† Dors started the car and began to speed down the central roadway. A ten-year stay on the grounds told her exactly where she was going. The car she was in-an official ground-car-was not an alien intrusion into the grounds and would not be picked up as a matter of course. However, she had to take a chance on speed, for she wanted to reach her destination rapidly. She pushed the car to a speed of two hundred kilometers per hour. The speed, at least, eventually did attract attention. She ignored radioed cries, demanding to know why she was speeding, and before long the car's detectors told her that another ground-car was in hot pursuit. She knew that there would be a warning sent up ahead and that there would be other ground-cars waiting for her to arrive, but there was little any of them could do, short of trying to blast her out of existence-something apparently no one was willing to try, pending further investigation. When she reached the building she had been heading for, two ground-cars were waiting for her. She climbed serenely out of her own car and walked toward the entrance. Two men at once stood in her way, obviously astonished that the driver of the speeding car was not a guardsman but a woman dressed in civilian clothes. â€Å"What are you doing here? What was the rush?† Dors said quietly, â€Å"Important message for Colonel Header Linn.† â€Å"Is that so?† said the guardsman harshly. There were now four men between her and the entrance. â€Å"Reference number, please.† Dors said, â€Å"Don't delay me.† â€Å"Reference number, I said.† â€Å"You're wasting my time.† One of the guardsmen said suddenly, â€Å"You know who she looks like? The old First Minister's wife. Dr. Venabili. The Tiger Woman.† There was an odd backward step on the part of all four, but one of them said, â€Å"You're under arrest.† â€Å"Am I?† said Dors. â€Å"If I'm The Tiger Woman, you must know that I am considerably stronger than any of you and that my reflexes are considerably faster. Let me suggest that all four of you accompany me quietly inside and we'll see what Colonel Linn has to say.† â€Å"You're under arrest† came the repetition and four blasters were aimed at Dors. â€Å"Well,† said Dors. â€Å"If you insist.† She moved rapidly and two of the guardsmen were suddenly on the ground, groaning, while Dors was standing with a blaster in each hand. She said, â€Å"I have tried not to hurt them, but it is quite possible that I have broken their wrists. That leaves two of you and I can shoot faster than you can. If either of you makes the slightest move-the slightest-I will have to break the habit of a lifetime and kill you. It will sicken me to do so and I beg you not to force me into it.† There was absolute silence from the two guardsmen still standing-no motion. â€Å"I would suggest,† said Dors, â€Å"that you two escort me into the colonel's presence and that you then seek medical help for your comrades.† The suggestion was not necessary. Colonel Linn emerged from his office. â€Å"What is going on here? What is-â€Å" Dors turned to him. â€Å"Ah! Let me introduce myself. I am Dr. Dors Venabili, the wife of Professor Hari Seldon. I have come to see you on important business. These four tried to stop me and, as a result, two are badly hurt. Send them all about their business and let me talk to you. I mean you no harm.† Linn stared at the four guardsmen, then at Dors. He said calmly, â€Å"You mean me no harm? Though four guardsmen have not succeeded in stopping you, I have four thousand at my instant call.† â€Å"Then call them,† said Dors. â€Å"However quickly they come, it will not be in time to save you, should I decide to kill you. Dismiss your guardsmen and let us talk civilly.† Linn dismissed the guardsmen and said, â€Å"Well, come in and we will talk. Let me warn you, though, Dr. Venabili-I have a long memory.† â€Å"And I,† said Dors. They walked into Linn's quarters together. 15 Linn said with utmost courtesy, â€Å"Tell me exactly why you are here, Dr. Venabili.† Dors smiled without menace-and yet not exactly pleasantly, either. â€Å"To begin with,† she said, â€Å"I have come here to show you that I can come here.† â€Å"Yes. My husband was taken to his interview with the General in an official ground-car under armed guard. I myself left the hotel at a the same time he did, on foot and unarmed-and here I am-and I believe I got here before he did. I had to wade through five guardsmen, including the guardsman whose car I appropriated, in order to reach you. I would have waded through fifty.† Linn nodded his head phlegmatically. â€Å"I understand that you are sometimes called The Tiger Woman.† â€Å"I have been called that. Now, having reached you, my task is to make certain that no harm comes to my husband. He is venturing into the General's lair-if I can be dramatic about it-and I want him to emerge unharmed and unthreatened.† â€Å"As far as I am concerned, I know that no harm will come to your husband as a result of this meeting. But if you are concerned, why do you come to me? Why didn't you go directly to the General?† â€Å"Because, of the two of you, it is you that has the brains.† There was a short pause and Linn said, â€Å"That would be a most dangerous remark-if overheard.† â€Å"More dangerous for you than for me, so make sure it is not overheard. Now, if it occurs to you that I am to be simply soothed and put off and that, if my husband is imprisoned or marked for execution, that there will really be nothing I can do about it, disabuse yourself.† She indicated the two blasters that lay on the table before her. â€Å"I entered the grounds with nothing. I arrived in your immediate vicinity with two blasters. If I had no blasters, I might have had knives, with which I am an expert. And if I had neither blasters nor knives, I would still be a formidable person. This table we're sitting at is metal-obviously-and sturdy.† â€Å"It is.† Dors held up her hands, fingers splayed, as if to show that she held no weapon. Then she dropped them to the table and, palms down, caressed its surface. Abruptly Dors raised her fist and then brought it down on the table with a loud crash, which sounded almost as if metal were striking metal. She smiled and lifted her hand. â€Å"No bruise,† Dors said. â€Å"No pain. But you'll notice that the table is slightly bent where I struck it. If that same blow had come down with the name force on a person's head, the skull would have exploded. I have never done such a thing; in fact, I have never killed anyone, though I have injured several. Nevertheless, if Professor Seldon is harmed-â€Å" â€Å"You are still threatening.† â€Å"I am promising. I will do nothing if Professor Seldon is unharmed. Otherwise, Colonel Linn, I will be forced to maim or kill you and-I promise you again-I will do the same to General Tennar.† Linn said, â€Å"You cannot withstand an entire army, no matter how tigerish a woman you are. What then?† â€Å"Stories spread,† said Dors, â€Å"and are exaggerated. I have not really done much in the way of tigerishness, but many more stories are told of me than are true. Your guardsmen fell back when they recognized me and they themselves will spread the story, with advantage, of how I made my way to you. Even an army might hesitate to attack me, Colonel Linn, but even if they did and even if they destroyed me, beware the indignation of the people. The junta is maintaining order, but it is doing so only barely and you don't want anything to upset matters. Think, then, of how easy the alternative is. Simply do not harm Professor Hari Seldon.† â€Å"We have no intention of harming him.† â€Å"Why the interview, then?† â€Å"What's the mystery? The General is curious about psychohistory. The government records are open to us. The old Emperor Cleon was interested. Demerzel, when he was First Minister, was interested. Why should we not be in our turn? In fact, more so.† â€Å"Why more so?† â€Å"Because time has passed. As I understand it, psychohistory began as a thought in Professor Seldon's mind. He has been working on it, with increasing vigor and with larger and larger groups of people, for nearly thirty years. He has done so almost entirely with government support, so that, in a way, his discoveries and techniques belong to the government. We intend to ask him about psychohistory, which, by now, must be far advanced beyond what existed in the times of Demerzel and Cleon, and we expect him to tell us what we want to know. We want something more practical than the vision of equations curling their way through air. Do you understand me?† â€Å"Yes,† said Dors, frowning. â€Å"And one more thing. Do not suppose that the danger to your husband comes from the government only and that any harm that reaches him will mean that you must attack us at once. I would suggest that Professor Seldon may have purely private enemies. I have no knowledge of such things, but surely it is possible.† â€Å"I shall keep that in mind. Right now, I want to have you arrange that I join my husband during his interview with the General. I want to know, beyond doubt, that he is safe.† â€Å"That will be hard to arrange and will take some time. It would be impossible to interrupt the conversation, but if you wait till it is ended-â€Å" â€Å"Take the time and arrange it. Do not count on double-crossing me and remaining alive.† 16 General Tennar stared at Hari Seldon in a rather pop-eyed manner and his fingers tapped lightly at the desk where he sat. â€Å"Thirty years,† he said. â€Å"Thirty years and you are telling me you still have nothing to show for it?† â€Å"Actually, General, twenty-eight years.† Tennar ignored that. â€Å"And all at government expense. Do you know how many billions of credits have been invested in your Project, Professor?† â€Å"I haven't kept up, General, but we have records that could give me the answer to your question in seconds.† â€Å"And so have we. The government, Professor, is not an endless source of funds. These are not the old times. We don't have Cleon's old free-and-easy attitude toward finances. Raising taxes is hard and we need credits for many things. I have called you here, hoping that you can benefit us in some way with your psychohistory. If you cannot, then I must tell you, quite frankly, that we will have to shut off the faucet. If you can continue your research without government funding, do so, for unless you show me something that would make the expense worth it, you will have to do just that.† â€Å"General, you make a demand I cannot meet, but, if in response, you and government support, you will be throwing away the future. Give me wile** and eventually-â€Å" â€Å"Various governments have heard that ‘eventually' from you for decades. Isn't it true, Professor, that you say your psychohistory predicts that the junta is unstable, that my rule is unstable, that in a short time it will collapse?† Seldon frowned. â€Å"The technique is not yet firm enough for me to say that this is something that psychohistory states.† â€Å"I put it to you that psychohistory does state it and that this is common knowledge within your Project.† â€Å"No,† said Seldon warmly. â€Å"No such thing. It is possible that some among us have interpreted some relationships to indicate that the junta may be an unstable form of government, but there are other relationships that may easily be interpreted to show it is stable. That is the reason why we must continue our work. At the present moment it is all too easy to use incomplete data and imperfect reasoning to reach any conclusion we wish.† â€Å"But if you decide to present the conclusion that the government is unstable and say that psychohistory warrants it-even if it does not actually do so-will it not add to the instability?† â€Å"It may very well do that, General. And if we announced that the government is stable, it may well add to the stability. I have had this very same discussion with Emperor Cleon on a number of occasions. It is possible to use psychohistory as a tool to manipulate the emotions of the people and achieve short-term effects. In the long run, however, the predictions are quite likely to prove incomplete or downright erroneous and psychohistory will lose all its credibility and it will be as though it had never existed.† â€Å"Enough! Tell me straight out! What do you think psychohistory shows about my government?† â€Å"It shows, we think, that there are elements of instability in it, but we are not certain-and cannot be certain-exactly in what way this can be made worse or made better.† â€Å"In other words, psychohistory simply tells you what you would know without psychohistory and it is that in which government has invested uncounted piles of credits.† â€Å"The time will come when psychohistory will tell us what we could not know without it and then the investment will pay itself back many, many times over.† â€Å"And how long will it be before that time comes?† â€Å"Not too long, I hope. We have been making rather gratifying progress in the last few years.† Tennar was tapping his fingernail on his desk again. â€Å"Not enough. Tell me something helpful now. Something useful.† Seldon pondered, then said, â€Å"I can prepare a detailed report for you, but it will take time.† â€Å"Of course it will. Days, months, years-and somehow it will never be written. Do you take me for a fool?† â€Å"No, of course not, General. However, I don't want to be taken for a fool, either. I can tell you something that I will take sole responsibility for. I have seen it in my psychohistorical research, but I may have misinterpreted what I saw. However, since you insist-â€Å" â€Å"I insist.† â€Å"You mentioned taxes a little while ago. You said raising taxes was difficult. Certainly. It is always difficult. Every government must do its work by collecting wealth in one form or another. The only two ways in which such credits can be obtained are, first, by robbing a neighbor, or second, persuading a government's own citizens to grant the credits willingly and peaceably. â€Å"Since we have established a Galactic Empire that has been conducting its business in reasonable fashion for thousands of years, there is no possibility of robbing a neighbor, except as the result of an occasional rebellion and its repression. This does not happen often enough to support a government-and, if it did, the government would be too unstable to last long, in any case.† Seldon drew a deep breath and went on. â€Å"Therefore, credits must be raised by asking the citizens to hand over part of their wealth for government use. Presumably, since the government will then work efficiently, the citizens can better spend their credits in this way than to hoard it-each man to himself-while living in a dangerous and chaotic anarchy. â€Å"However, though the request is reasonable and the citizenry is better off paying taxes as their price for maintaining a stable and efficient government, they are nevertheless reluctant to do so. In order to overcome this reluctance, governments must make it appear that they are not taking too many credits, and that they are considering each citizen's rights and benefits. In other words, they must lower the percentage taken out of low incomes; they must allow deductions of various kinds to be made before the tax is assessed, and so on. â€Å"As time goes on, the tax situation inevitably grows more and more complex as different worlds, different sectors within each world, and different economic divisions all demand and require special treatment. Me result is that the tax-collecting branch of the government grows in size and complexity and tends to become uncontrollable. The average citizen cannot understand why or how much he is being taxed; what he can get away with and what he can't. The government and the tax agency itself are often in the dark as well. â€Å"What's more, an ever-larger fraction of the funds collected must be put into running the overelaborate tax agency-maintaining records, pursuing tax delinquents-so the amount of credits available for good, and useful purposes declines despite anything we can do.** â€Å"In the end, the tax situation becomes overwhelming. It inspires discontent and rebellion. The history books tend to ascribe these things to greedy businessmen, to corrupt politicians, to brutal warriors, to ambitious viceroys-but these are just the individuals who take advantage of the tax overgrowth.† The General said harshly, â€Å"Are you telling me that our tax system is overcomplicated?† Seldon said, â€Å"If it were not, it would be the only one in history that wasn't, as far as I know. If there is one thing that psychohistory tells me is inevitable, it is tax overgrowth.† â€Å"And what do we do about it?† â€Å"That I cannot tell you. It is that for which I would like to prepare a report that-as you say-may take a while to get ready.† â€Å"Never mind the report. The tax system is overcomplicated, isn't it? Isn't that what you are saying?† â€Å"It is possible that it is,† said Seldon cautiously. â€Å"And to correct that, one must make the tax system simpler-as simple as possible, in fact.† â€Å"I would have to study-â€Å" â€Å"Nonsense. The opposite of great complication is great simplicity. I don't need a report to tell me that.† â€Å"As you say, General,† said Seldon. At this point the General looked up suddenly, as though he had been called-as, indeed, he had been. His fists clenched and holovision images of Colonel Linn and Dors Venabili suddenly appeared in the room. Thunderstruck, Seldon exclaimed, â€Å"Dors! What are you doing here?† The General said nothing, but his brow furrowed into a frown.