Monday, September 30, 2019

Jewish Marriage Essay

Marriage is a significant part of Judaism bringing together a woman and man under God’s reign. It is the mitzvah (122) â€Å"To marry a wife by means of ketubah and keddushin† (Deut 22:13), all Jewish adherents see marriage as a necessity in order to obey God and to experience the fullness of life. In Genesis God says: â€Å"It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him. † It is a link between individuals and the wider community as it recognises two individuals coming together, celebrated by the wider community. Also the marriage ceremony itself contains symbolic significance to Judaism, conveying Jewish beliefs through symbols, actions and words. The mitzvah of marriage is especially important as it involves what Jews believe to be the purpose of human life: unity to procreate. This belief is modelled by the creation story in Genesis where Adam is made a partner (Eve) through one of his ribs â€Å"For this reason man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife† (Genesis). The idea of a â€Å"bashert† or ideal partner makes marriage especially important as it creates a bond between two souls, just like Adam and Eve, fulfilling God’s will. Once unity between woman and man is achieved, a married couple are able to carry out the next mitzvah (125): â€Å"To have children with one’s wife† to fulfil God’s wish to â€Å"be fruitful and multiply† (Gen 1:28). Due to this law Jewish people see marriage as the only way of being able to have children, so in marriage, a Jew is able to adhere to two mitzvoth. To be Jewish one has to be born of a Jewish marriage; therefore, Jewish marriages are significant ensuring Judaism remains through generations due to procreation and the adherence of individuals marrying.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

My College Experience in University of La Salette Essay

A Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from a private university, La Sallete revels in my undergraduate days and shares the ups and downs of transitioning from secondary school to college. Along the way in second semester I found a little bit more worried. The college experience is one that holds many pleasant memories for me. I began the journey as a scared rat out in the open desert that have many prediators, but made the best of it and I think forward to become a willful man. It all started after I completed secondary school knowing that the next sure step was College, which made me worried and every thought of it. It started from â€Å"What should I study?† to â€Å"Where should I go?† and ended with the fear, â€Å"Will I survive on my own?† The saddest thing about embarrass on this journey towards my tertiary education is that many childhood high school friends have to be left behind and many times than not, the comfort of your own home as well. With all this in mind, I began for my search and discovered that Business Administration Major in Marketing was best suited for me in terms of course outline and career pathway. I enrolled in a college in U.L.S which meant that I had to stay out, as it was ridiculous to think of travelling to and Santiago from Roxas every week. I signed up for my courses for the First semester I enrolled in University of La Salette – Roxas Campus. The experience is good but I have a feeling that I don’t deserve to study again in our home town so in second semester I decided to transfer in the main campus of U.L.S which in Santiago City. Picked out a room or a boarding in Santiago nearby in the school campus is hard because there is a lot of room to offer but minimal the quality I want. But in my 2 semester of college and first time in Santiago I choose a boarding near in our school. In my first day of staying in our boarding I met my entire roommate which is kaka, graysom and jp and the n we waited for the first day to begin. I distinctly remember stepping into my first class. The lecturer was rather amusing and he gave us time to settle in that day. It wasn’t as bad as I’d thought it would be. In fact I suddenly found myself gaining more confidence and determination from that week on. I began reshaping my work style and schedule to fit into the mold of college life! The first thing that hit me was the workload. It was definitely much heavier and intense than what I was used to in high school. The major challenges to get past were the large volumes of reading, the short deadlines and the intensive writing, writing and more writing. On some of these long, seemingly endless nights of mugging the books and writing, it is only natural for one to long for the good old days when friends were around to mull over a problem together and my step mother was there to take care of my dietary needs and quick fixes of rice and egg. But hang in there. Trust that this will pass when morning comes. Whatever you do, don’t make major decisions about your courses, your major or even what you’re going to do the next day during one of these down periods. However, even with these initial challenges, college was the phase in my life where I started finding myself. I grew to learn what I really like and dislike, what work style was best suited for me and most importantly what I was naturally good at. In other words, being forced to be independent was push in action that I needed at that time. Once I grew comfortable with myself, I began to enjoy the difficulty to detect opportunity given; to meet new friends. I ran for student council when I was in Roxas Campus and elected as business manager of the board but it was cancelled when I was transfer here in Main Campus and I also joined in Filipino Club. Getting involved in Filipino Club and handling â€Å"Buwan ng Wika†was challenging. I wanted to excel academically and get good grades but I realized that in spending most of the day in college, I had to give more to gain more. But in Santiago it is different story, it is hard to get grade and there is a lot of attraction that attract me to be stun and relax my life but that is not a good thing because when I discover that when I enjoying my grade is falling. One thing I remember best is when we have a commercial competition we try our best and give the entire thing that we have. The completion is about radio commercial and T.V commercial in T.V commercial lost and I think we are 5 or 4 placer but in our radio commercial we won and we accepted to the final exam. In this competition I meet new friends and enemy in the sense of competition. In this past 2  ½ years experience a lot, experience that remarkable in my life, to be drunk, to be bullied or bullying anyone, to be love and to be unloved. I learn a lot of these college life but now I see myself that many thing have change to me, my pubic hair was grow, voice was become loud, attitude that even my father didn’t know me now, but even they see me like that I always say that I am Jhon Marco S. Bulanadi yes is a change man but a man with experience that will suited in the outside world of college that prepare in the true life and not scenario anymore. These moments are the special things in college that one will not get to experience at work or elsewhere. All in all I found college life to be demanding and unexpected, but I had my fair share of fun, and that’s what mattered most. I successfully made the transition from high school, to college, to the working world, with my sanity and health intact. Considering all things past, I would change if I had a chance, developed new skill if ever it is needed, Iam a innovative person that willing to change every day if it is needed. THE HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES THAT I EXPERIENCE AND MY LEARNING FROM THESE ABUSES Human rights are basic freedoms that all people are entitled to enjoy. But in every place even where human rights are acknowledged, people may not enjoy them equally. I experienced human rights abuse when I was still young. I was 7 yrs old when I had a teacher who was very cruel and strict. There was a time when I came to school late and she let me stand under the sun f0r a very long time. My freedom from cruelty and punishment was violated. Another is when my phone was confiscated at school and my teacher read all my text messages without my consent. She violated my privacy. My right to freedom of religion was also violated when someone was asking me to join a religious group even when I already said no because I am already happy with a religion I am already engaged with. I also have experienced inequality both at home and school. My parents sometimes do not treat us equally. Sometimes they give everything that my siblings ask for but when it comes to me, it takes much time and effort to convince them. In school, some teachers do not give equal and reasonable grades with students who exerted equal efforts. Sometimes, they give higher grades to their favorite students. As a human being, we should treat each other equally. We are all entitled to human rights regardless of age, race, color, sex, language, religion, property, birth, nationality an economic status. And of course, we should always remember the golden rule; do not do unto others what you don’t want others do unto you.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Clock Manufacturing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Clock Manufacturing - Essay Example All cuckoo clocks sold and manufactured within Austria have to comply with this new standard. However this new technical standard was not informed to the European Commission. European Parliament and Council Directive 98/34 on the provision of information in the field of technical standards, require that all new technical standards be notified to the Commission before they are brought into force. Secondly, from November 2005, following complaints from German trading standards officers about the poor quality of some cuckoo-clocks exported from Austria, all cuckoo clocks which did not meet the new technical standards specified were prohibited from being exported to countries outside Austria to preserve the reputation of the clock manufacturing tradition. This new legal provision was again not notified to the Commission. Considering these new standards and legal provisions in place and the fact that the European Commission has not been informed either of the new standards in place or the changes to legal provisions for export of clocks from Austria, legal advice on manufacturing and export/import issues could be given to the clients. The role of the direct effects of directives and access to justice for individuals with employment rights seem to be central in such situations1. Differentiating direct and indirect effects, indirect effects apply to a principle in EU law stating that EU directives are capable of dis-applying laws of member states if these laws are not approved by the EU under certain circumstances2. Thus in EU a directive is a legislative order requiring implementation by every member state of the union. Member states however do have the freedom to implement their own laws, yet they must comply with the aims of the original directives3. In contrast, regulations imply a single law that is directly effective on each Member state. EU law has the provision for incidental effects which is used in association with indirect effects of EU directives for suits that are filed against individuals4. An individual cannot be sued for failure to comply with EU directives. In a similar case C-194/94 CIA Security International SA v. Signalson SA and Securitel Sprl ([1996] ECR I-2201, the CIA had attempted to distribute a burglar alarm in Belgium which was not in accordance with the technical specifications laid out by the Belgian authorities. Yet, since the Belgian government had failed to inform the EU on these specifications, as required by a directive in 1983, the court ruled that this constituted a disrespect or degradation of the effectiveness of the EU directives. The EU directives are meant to remove barriers to trade within the EU5, and that the Belgian government's breach of this directive made the Belgian law inapplicable to individuals. This assignment is done to advise the clients Andreas, Bergland and Christina, who are facing similar problems and the cases for each are given below. The Legal Provisions: A new technical standard for Austrian cuckoo clock manufacturing was introduced in 2005 and this is a standard laid down by the Austrian authorities. The new regulations and legal standards that all manufacturers and sellers of Austrian clocks are required to follow are given in the context of advice to three clients namely Andreas, Bergland and Christina. The three cases are discussed separately according to the legal provisions available and the legal regulations

Friday, September 27, 2019

My life sounds like Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

My life sounds like - Essay Example The words in the song encourage me to do what I desire, and what contributes positively to the advancement of humanity. The words that insist that every second count because second chances do not exist inspire me. More to these, the song highlights about forgiving your enemies, which helps me keep from holding grudges in life, and aim at living at peace with all people. Being concerned about the well being of the less fortunate in society forms a significant part of my life. Consequently, Michael Jackson inspires me to participate, continually, in activities that promote the lives of the less fortunate. The song insists on caring for the entire human race, through such acts as giving. It also strengthens my unity values as it teaches me to look at the world as a place that should be filled with peace. Therefore, the song helps me to reach out to the needy around me, and help them live a better life. Switchfoot’s song â€Å"Dare you to move† keeps me going when I face hu rdles in my life. Whenever I experience failure, and thoughts of despair crowd my mind, the words â€Å"I dare you to lift yourself up off the floor† encourage me to keep on trying, no matter how difficult the situation may get. In my academics, for example, I am motivated to keep on working hard as the song teaches me that being strong makes a difference between where I am today, and where I could be tomorrow. The song increases my determination to face the tensions in all areas of life with an unfailing spirit.

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Buddhism and Hinduism Ethical Systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Buddhism and Hinduism Ethical Systems - Essay Example Buddhism and Hinduism Ethical Systems Analysis presented in this paper is helpful in understanding the Hinduism and Buddhism religions ethical systems with respect to their similarities and differences. On a broad front, comparisons and contrasts between the Buddhism ethical systems has been presented to indicate how the religions has used their religion to uncover their spiritual world, as well as their daily practices. On the similar account, the paper focuses on the subject of ethical system principles and guideline to explore across all the five universal codes, marital moral ethic as well as relationships ethics. Hinduism and Buddhism religious, ethical systems uncover the spiritual meaning to the peoples’ lives. For example, religious values are used subjectively by the associated people to provide a common good, solve a social problem, as well as satisfying life, or making life worthy. Buddhism ethical values are centrally based on the enlightenment of Buddha and his followers. Therefore, the Buddhism ethical system only complies with the Buddhist scriptures that serve as a guideline in shaping the people’s lives. The Buddhism ethical principles and practices act in a way that prevents harm to the people by helping the people to move through life. In comparison, Hinduism ethical systems are mainly personal or subjectively designed. Thus, Hinduism ethical systems are only purposed to maximize the people’s highest goodness and personal values.

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Project Management Issue Report Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Project Management Issue Report - Research Paper Example Such considerably account the framework to understand the business operational management taking into account some policies, strategies, quality control, monitoring and employees’ evaluation or appraisal which are crucial in managing corporate systems. As a mechanism, it involves budgeting, economic valuing and usage of balance scorecard (Otley, 2002). Thus, it necessitates disciplined decision-makings to advance the performance of an institution driven by motivation, business policies and corporate vision or goals. Usually, project outcomes of the business corporations are measured by assessing goals or objectives against with key result areas (KRAs). As to its essence in human resource management (HRM), project managers seriously delve on organizational structures to ensure that systems can operationalize and integrate plans by optimizing desired technical skills from humane resources hence, project management experts should nurture value-system and takes direction through c lear vision and mission as common direction where all undertakings are geared (Ilies, Crisan & Muresan, 2010). Organizational managers however thought that for this to be effective and for employers to be proficient, they need to be clarified about the nature of their contracts with mutual trusts and strong commitments. PM and Governance Moreover, project management is a system that is sensitive too to corporate regulations and policies. As part of corporate policy, the management should have distinct and competitive policy in the administration, in human resource management, and in extolling policies which secure customer satisfaction by optimizing unrivalled quality service, developing competitive products' pricing, exercising corporate ethics and solid teamwork of employees with management (Dransfield, 2000, p. 70). In so doing, it’s crucial for managers to exhibit leadership by managing the company from the vantage of its objectives. Managers are also imbued with knowledg e on quality control to ensure that there is complete integration, time management, cost efficiency, open communications, systematized procurement and scheme for risk mitigation (Nastase, Tapurica & Tache, 2010). The quality control also includes standardization of working environment, its products and its operational systems. Managing the project well contribute and auger well to the national economy. Such meant illustrating necessary skills for comprehensive planning, organizing, directing and controlling the financial, technical and resources. Hence, it’s imperative to systematize relations, production, marketing and maintenance to ascertain sustainability. Managers ought to ascertain their strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) and regularly conduct political, economic, social, technical, environmental and legal (PESTEL) analysis. The company must invest more to boost strengths and opportunities as well as strategize ways to deal with threats and weaknesse s. The conduct of PESTEL analyses will enable strategic decisions to meet challenges and to craft responses on potential problems. It will also help solidify its economic standing in relation to rapid changes of world economy. PM and Virtual Realities These days corporations have virtual counter part in its operation—

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

ECO-FRIENDLY KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT Dissertation

ECO-FRIENDLY KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT - Dissertation Example This paper will adopt the conceptual model approach, framed by Yin (1989) in his research article. According to Yin (1989) conceptual models are necessary while conducting research work, especially in the context of framing a well-defined information and subsequent discussion and analysis. Quite often used when two phenomena are being compared and contrasted (in this case comparing and contrasting two procurement organizations, A and B), this approach requires that the researcher frame and organize the data into a modular format. This paper is in line with Yin’s theory of the resultant conceptual model, which though formulated primarily primary data, also allows for the mapping of a phenomenon and its subsequent theoretical analysis. In other words, this approach allows for the explanation of facts through theoretical analysis; the expansion of knowledge through the clarification of the relation between reality and theory; and most importantly, is ideally appropriate for a com parative analysis of two organizations (Yin, 1989). The nature and concerns of the current research have led to the determination of the imperatives of extensively exploiting the conceptual model approach. The research focuses on the critical analysis of two organizations, from the data collected during primary research. Organization A, a public sector entity, is a Public Procurement Organization; while Organization B, also a Public Procurement Organization belongs to a different Department. Primary data from both the organizations were collected through the process of extensive interviewing. 4.5.1 Qualitative Sampling When selecting samples for qualitative survey, a different set of priorities must be taken into consideration. Each conducted qualitative survey is almost similar to an individual scientific research. Here the sample size is not important, rather the set up of observable patterns in the data, is. According to Patton (1987), â€Å"The sample should be large enough to be credible, given the purpose of evaluation, but small enough to permit adequate depth and detail for each case or unit in the sample†. Qualitative samples tend to be studied in nature, rather than being random (Crabtree and Miller, 1999). Studied sampling, or criterion?based selection (Miles and Huberman, 1994) bases the selection of research and participants on certain specific features and characteristics that will enable the researcher to gather in?depth information on areas important for that particular research. This type of studied sampling is therefore strategic in nature (Crabtree and Miller, 1999), with scope for easy access to explore a situation and the participants, having only secondary importance. Typical case sampling, a particular type of purposive sampling, observed mainly in cases that are representative of a larger group selected for a detailed analysis, is relevant to the present study (Patton, 1987). Since qualitative research does not emphasize on stati stical data interpretation, there is no compulsion that samples must be of a sufficient scale for a researcher to arrive at a conclusion (Denzin and Lincoln, 2000). Sample sizes must be kept credibly small, in order to do justice to the rich evidence provided by the qualitative studies and to make best use of the resources available for intensive research analysis (Ritchie and Lewis, 2003). Within the context of the present study, sample size was primarily

Monday, September 23, 2019

None Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 30

None - Essay Example Precisely, the Toyota Prius sold many vehicles to over eighty nations. The advertisements and word of mouth has influenced the demand for the Toyota Prius. The iPhone competes with the increasing alternatives, and the prices have dropped. The distribution of the iPhones has intensified, and the products are available in different parts of the globe. The adverts in maturity stage focus on promoting the product by influencing the consumers to increase the purchasing power (Cant et al 242). Fundamentally, the adverts aim at creating a competitive edge in the ever-competitive market through a differentiation strategy. The iPod advert is an excellent example of product in the decline stage of life cycle. With introduction of new products, iPod sales have decreased. Similarly, a notable decline of interest from the consumers and retailers is evident. Maximum competition has occurred leading to negative sales growth, as well as, lower profits. Cant et al argues that stagnation characterize the decline stage of product life cycle

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Studing is what matters Essay Example for Free

Studing is what matters Essay Brain drain is also known as â€Å"The human capital flight†. It can be simply defined as the mass emigration of technically skilled people from one country to another country. Brain-drain can have many reasons, for example-political instability of a nation, lack of opportunities, health risks, personal conflicts etc. Brain-drain can also be named as â€Å"human capital flight† because it resembles the case of capital flight, in which mass migration of financial capital is involved. For the balance of power and for the staggered development of the world, it is very important to stop the phenomena of brain-drain. This will help a particular country to use all local skilled citizens for development and proliferation. But to hold these skilled workers at their native places, it is also important to provide them enough work opportunities and living facilities. For this purpose, developed nations should help developing countries with necessary money and resources. So that each and every human of this planet can have good standard of living and each and every nation can introduce itself as a developed nation. **** Brain drain (or human capital flight), is the large-scale emigration of a large group of individuals with technical skills or knowledge. The reasons usually include two aspects which respectively come from countries and individuals. In terms of countries, the reasons may be social environment (in source countries: lack of opportunities, political instability or oppression, economic depression, health risks, etc. ; in host countries: rich opportunities, political stability and freedom, developed economy, better living conditions, etc. ). In terms of individual reasons, there are family influence (overseas relatives), and personal preference: preference for exploring, ambition for an improved career, etc. Although the term originally referred to technology workers leaving a nation, the meaning has broadened into: the departure of educated or professional people from one country, economic sector, or field for another, usually for better pay or living conditions. [1] Brain drain is usually regarded as an economic cost, since emigrants usually take with them the fraction of value of their training sponsored by the government or other organizations. It is a parallel of capital flight, which refers to the same movement of financial capital. Brain drain is often associated with de-skilling of emigrants in their country of destination, while their country of emigration experiences the draining of skilled individuals. The term brain drain was coined by the Royal Society to describe the emigration of scientists and technologists to North America from post-war Europe. [2] Another source indicates that this term was first used in the United Kingdom to describe the influx of Indian scientist and engineers. [3] The converse phenomenon is brain gain, which occurs when there is a large-scale immigration of technically qualified persons. There are also relevant phrases called brain circulation and brain waste. Brain drain is common among developing nations, such as the former colonies of Africa,[4] the island nations of the Caribbean,[5] and particularly in centralized economies such as former East Germany and the Soviet Union, where marketable skills were not financially rewarded #theme :technologiE introduction: throught history technological innovations have helped humankind improve their standards of living,begining ¬ with the simple invention of bonetools of prehistorie times,continuin ¬g on to and beyond modern air conditioners,au ¬tomobilies and super computers. nowad ¬ays,when the rapideness of development and research is so imprssive ,its easy to think about the advantages of modern technology. .Nevertheless,t ¬echnology can save lives and give us a lot of comfort provided that it doesn’t fall in the wrong hands. Yet,it’s blatantly conspicuous that the deleterious effects of technology out wrigh its benefits. Teach ¬ children self confidence+lear ¬n them how to deal with certains obstacles ,how to defend him self+teach children how ti use their ineligence+faci ¬lities researches communicatin+th ¬e computer games are the best alternative to keep children safe at home ery good job also you can add this:To live, learn and work successfully in an increasingly complex and information-ric ¬h society, students must use technology to Innovate, Collaborate, Investigate and Think Critically. Benefits*techno ¬logy can save peoples lives*it shortens distances*it solves the problem of many childless parents*technol ¬ogy improves other fields*the  internet is a source on valuable information*tv makes the world look like a small village Understand that modern technology has benefited human beings by increasing production of goods and services, reducing the amount of labor needed to produce these goods and services, and providing higher living standards. Understand that technology has al so had negative effects on society—environ ¬mental pollution,deple ¬tion of natural resources, unemployment, and the creation of ethical dilemmas, among others. Disadvantages*i ¬t can teach violence*it can harm the eyes*it can cause pollution*cloni ¬ng is perceived as smoothing immoral*childre ¬n can be addicted to it*nuclear power and weapons destroy our world*machines can replace men at work characteristics of inventor ,, everyone dreams of being famous and remembered forever. some are known for their skills in inventing and designing new things to facilate humans life. in fact there ara many caracteristics required to be a seccessful inventor .  first an inventor imagines , disigns and refers many times to previous results to build on tham, second inventors are determined to work intensively and at many time to earch a result. morever an inventor is commited to his work that is he dedicates his time , his mony as well as his effort to creating a useful appliance medicament or even an item of clothes ,, in this context ,, i may mention the work of alfred nobel who devoted his wealth to sponsoring students only to show that his inve ntion was for the benifit of humanity. all in all we should encourag all the inventors and support tham. †¢Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ Advantages and disadvantages of living in the country and in the city. There is a tendency in the modern society to abandon the country and to migrate to the city. More and more people, especially young and well educated, decide to live in large metropolises rather than in small towns or villages. The main factor that influences their decision is unemployment problem which is very acute in the country. The city offers many opportunities to young people. First of all, they can attend there the best universities and use the best learning resources which will allow them to develop their knowledge and skills. Good educational background increases their chances to find employment in good companies which will offer them lucrative posts. People who are ambitious and want to be successful and pursue their careers find in the city many possibilities to realize their potential and to gain the best professional experience. Besides, large modern metropolises provide their inhabitants with limitless sources of entertainment. Young people can socialize in cafes, pubs, clubs or discos or take part in various cultural events, like for example concerts, art exhibitions or spectacles in the theatre. Moreover, they can enjoy shopping in large shopping centres or department stores. All these charms and attractions of the city are appealing to young people, however when they start their own families they usually start missing peacefulness and tranquillity of country life. As they become older, people are tired with the hectic and stressful city life and often decide to move outside the city. However, country life, although more quiet and peaceful, has also disadvantages. ***Where shall we live? Some may choose to live in big cities, while other like the natural and quiet surroundings in the countryside. As far as I am concerned, I would like to live in a big city because living in a big city has more advantages than living in the countryside. To begin with, the city is the symbol of human civilization and there are a many facilities for living, recreation and health care. Therefore, living there is more convenient than living in the countryside. Living in such a big city has a lot of advantages. There is a big offer how to spend free time. There are always plenty of social activities, sports events, concerts and other ways of entertainment. There are more recreational places in big cities, such as opera houses, movie theatres, clubs, and swimming pools. You will have many kinds of entertainment in big cities, and meet many people. In countryside, however, the life may be dull and quite, and you may only have a few neighbors. In a big city, people can take the chances to study and work best. There are many good University choosing in a big city. There you can express your ability to study what you like. Moreover, when you graduate, you also find it easier to find chances to get a good job with good salary, that is quite difficult in small citiesor countrysides. On the other hand, there are some disadvantages of living in a big city. Cities are very crowded. Everywhere there are crowds: on the pavements and in the buses. What is more, the traffic is heavy and citys car parks are always very full. Sometimes it is very difficult to get from a given place to another. It may take hours! And it follows to that, that the air in the city is more polluted, than in the countryside. People in the city are like ants. They are always in hurry, busy and out of time.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Network Security Plan Essay Example for Free

Network Security Plan Essay INTRODUCTION (Purpose and Intent) The Corporation Tech IT Network Security Plan establishes guidelines for IT practices used on a day to day basis to provide a secure and robust computing environment. These practices are used in order to protect the mission, operation, and reputation of Corporation Tech System and its information systems. These system security policies, standards, and procedures that have been established for the Corporation Tech System, are intended to comply with the regulations and policies set down by the State of Florida, Corporation Tech, and the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA). SCOPE These standards and procedures apply to all information systems and resources under the control of Corporation Tech, including all computers connecting to the Corporation Tech network and all Corporation Tech System employees, contractors, and any other individuals who use and/or administer those systems and computers, particularly those involved with information system management. STANDARD PROVISIONS Corporation Tech IT will manage risk by identifying, evaluating, controlling, and mitigating vulnerabilities that are a potential threat to the data and information systems under its control. User accounts and passwords are implemented to maintain individual accountability for network resource usage. Any user who obtains an account and password for accessing a Corporation Tech provided resource, is required to keep these credentials confidential. Users of these systems may only use the accounts and passwords for which they have been assigned and authorized to use, and are prohibited  from using the network to access these systems through any other means. This plan also prohibits the sharing of personal user accounts or passwords for accessing Corporation Tech or Internet computing resources. In the interest of maintaining account security, passwords will be changed on a regular schedule or anytime the integrity of the account is in question. Corporation Tech IT network or computing resources may not be used for personal commercial purposes, for personal profit or to violate the laws and regulations of the United States or any other nation, or the laws and regulations of any state, city, province or other local jurisdiction in any material way. Use of Corporation Tech resources for any illegal activity may result in loss of network access privileges, official reprimand, suspension or dismissal. Corporation Tech will cooperate with any legitimate law enforcement agency or inquiry in the investigation and prosecution of any alleged wrongful activity. Corporation Tech’s network or Internet facilities may not be used to disable or overload any computer system or network, or to circumvent any system intended to protect the privacy or security of another user. Corporation Tech owned networking and communications equipment, may only be moved by Network and Computing Support staff, or authorized agents. Reconfiguration of network hardware or software, except by designated individuals within IT, is strictly prohibited. Prior to connecting any server, network communication or monitoring device to the Corporation Tech Network, approval must be obtained from Data Center Communications. Attachment of any the following devices to the Corporation Tech network, other than those provided or approved by Network and Computing Support, is strictly prohibited: a. DHCP servers. b. DNS servers. c. NAT routers. d. Network Gateways. e. Packet capturing or network monitoring devices. f. Any device that disrupts or negatively impacts network operations. STATEMENT OF PROCEDURES The procedures for conducting a risk assessment and for the control and mitigation of risks to the Corporation Tech Information Systems include: NETWORK CONTROL Corporation Tech IT has software and systems in place that have the ability to monitor and record network, Internet and computer system usage. This includes monitoring and security systems that are capable of recording network traffic, including traffic to World Wide Web sites, chat rooms, newsgroups and e-mail messages, file servers, telnet sessions and file transfers into and out of our internal networks. This capability is necessary in order to maintain the health of Corporation Tech network operations and diagnose network related problems. Corporation Tech IT reserves the right to perform network monitoring at any time. The information collected may be used by technicians and management to assess network utilization and trends, and may also be provided to upper management or other authorities as evidence as part of any investigation of alleged policy violations. Corporation Tech IT reserves the right to perform periodic port scans, segment sweeps, and vulnerability scans on all network segments. Network operations, functions, and resources, which are not required as part of the normal and approved job duties or projects at Corporation Tech, may be bandwidth limited or blocked by network control devices in order to protect the integrity and availability of the overall system. Corporation Tech IT may suspend network access to any location or system that disrupts normal network operations or systems that violate Corporation Tech policy. In this event, an attempt will be made to contact the responsible individual to resolve the problem. DHCP SERVICES Corporation Tech IT provides centralized and redundant DHCP and DNS services for Corporation Tech. Due to the nature of these services, and because of the potential disruption of service and possible security breaches resulting from incorrect setup of additional systems, attachment of unauthorized DHCP or DNS servers is prohibited. The following guidelines must be followed when requesting or using any DHCP or DNS services: †¢ Systems requiring an IP address must support DHCP and be capable of obtaining DHCP address information from one of the centrally administered University DHCP servers. †¢ Using DHCP, devices requesting an IP address will be assigned a dynamic pool address from the subnet to which the device is attached. Devices with dynamically assigned IP addresses may have their address change. †¢ Static IP addresses needed for server class machines or specialized clients must be  requested from the Data Center Communications Team via a Help Desk ticket. DNS SERVICES User workstations, which have been assigned a dynamic pool IP address, will have an associated DNS name assigned by the network. Any DNS name or domain name that is to be associated with Corporation Tech network, must be requested from and/or registered through Web Services. DNS names ending in corptech.com are made available upon request for Corporation Tech approved services. Requests for assignment of DNS names must be for valid Corporation Tech related purposes. DNS names for domains other than corptech.com, and which are to be hosted by Corporation Tech systems, must be requested from Web Services. Any charges for initial or ongoing registration of the requested name are the responsibility of the requestor. DNS names, not in the corptech.com domain, will be handled on a case by case basis. Corporation Tech IT will work with any user requesting a domain name to identify an appropriate and available name, however Corporation Tech IT has final approval for all DNS name assignments. WIRELESS NETWORK SERVICES Because wireless networks can be used to provide access to the same resources and services as wired network systems, the same basic procedures that are used in a wired network environment can also be applied in a wireless network environment. However, due to the nature of wireless networks, additional security and control mechanisms are needed in order to maintain the security, operation and inter-operability of both traditional and wireless systems. Wireless routers are not allowed on the Corporation Tech network unless they have been approved by Corporation Tech IT. Access to the Corporation Tech Wireless network is limited to individuals who have a Corporation Tech account except in locations where the guest network is available. The Corporation Tech Guest Network is segregated from the internal servers and resources used by authenticated users to keep the network secure. The Corporation Tech Guest Network is only available in approved areas, and require a request to be expanded into any other areas. Users of the Corporation Tech Guest Network are required to provide a valid cell phone number in order to authenticate. Destruction and Disposal of Information and Devices Restricted information must be disposed of in such manner as to ensure it cannot be retrieved and recovered by unauthorized persons. When donating, selling, transferring, surplusing or disposing of computers or removable media (such as DVDs), the proper procedures to make data unreadable on those media will be taken. Acceptable procedures are listed on ISSP-009, â€Å"Medial Disposal.† NETWORK ACCESS Anyone who uses the Corporation Tech computing environment must have appropriate status (e.g. management, employee, staff, or authorized third party) and must be properly authenticated when required. Access will be provided to vendors and or other Corporation Tech partners through the sponsored VIP account process, as described on http://www.corptech.com/it/services/vip.aspx. VIP accounts are reviewed and renewed on six month intervals to see if access is still needed. When an employee leaves the organization accounts will be disabled once TERM status is updated, and individual departments must approve re-activation of account access. USER COMPUTING DEVICES Users are responsible for the security and integrity of Corporation Tech information stored on their workstation, which includes controlling physical and network access to the equipment. Users may not run or otherwise configure software or hardware that may allow access by unauthorized users. Anti-virus software must be installed on all workstations that connect to the Corporation Tech Network. Corporation Tech Computers may not be used to copy, distribute, share, download, or upload any copyrighted material without the permission of the copyright owner. PHYSICAL ACCESS Access to Corporation Tech IT Data Center should be restricted to those responsible for operation and maintenance. Access by non-IT personnel is not permitted unless they are escorted by an authorized IT staff member. Computer installations should provide reasonable security measures to protect the computer system against natural disasters, accidents, loss or fluctuation of electrical power, and sabotage. Networking and computing hardware are placed in secure and appropriately cooled areas for data  integrity and security NETWORK HARDWARE Network hardware are housed behind a locked door to protect physical access to switches and other network hardware. Access is only allowed though card access or with a checked out key. All switches and network hardware are password protected at a minimum via a local account setup on the device itself, these passwords are changed periodically as administrators leave the organization. Subnets allowed to authenticate with switch management will be restricted, to create tighter control of backend administration. Exec level access Timeouts implemented on Console and VTY lines, so that any idle sessions are terminated automatically. All switches are time synced using NTP, so that incidents can be tracked and correlated to the proper timeframe. SERVER ENVIRONMENTS All servers are subject to a security audit and evaluation before they are placed into production. Administrative access to servers must be password protected and use two-factor authentication whenever possible. Servers should be physically located in an access-controlled environment. All internal servers deployed at Corporation Tech must be owned by an operational group that is responsible for system administration. Servers must be registered with the IT department. At a minimum, the following information is required to positively identify the point of contact: a. Server owner contact(s) and location. b. Hardware and Operating System/Version c. Main functions and applications d. MAC address (If not a virtual server) Services and applications that will not be used must be disabled where practical. Access to services should be logged and/or protected through access-control methods to the extent possible. The most recent security patches must be installed on the system as soon as practical. Do not use administrator or root access when a non-privileged account can be used. Privileged access must be performed over secure channels, (e.g., encrypted network connections using SSH or IPSec). EXCEPTIONS All requests for exceptions to these standards and procedures will be handled by request, and will follow these guidelines: †¢ Must be submitted in writing to and approved by the CIO or with the proper authority. †¢ Will be reviewed on a case by case basis. NETWORK SECURITY Corporation Tech network design is built around three principles, Defense-in-Depth, Compartmentalization of Information and Principle of Least Privilege. Our first step was to look at what we are protecting, which is ultimately our business and clients data and information. To ensure a sound architecture we started the design of our network with scalability in mind. It is important that our design is flexible enough to meet future needs. The threats we know about and face today may not be the ones we face tomorrow. While developing security requirements for our IT system resources, we will determine if they are mission-critical or data-sensitive resources. This will allow us to determine where data confidentiality and integrity are the most important requirements, or where the priority is continuity of operation (availability). DEFENSE-IN-DEPTH Network safeguards offer the first protection barrier of IT system resources against threats originating outside the network. These threats can be in the form of intruders or malicious code. Our network design offers layered protections. What this means is the security layers complement each other; what one misses the other catches. This will be accomplished by locating security defenses in different places throughout our IT system, as well as not using two of the same types of safeguards. Although this may increase the complexity of our security system and can potentially make management and maintenance more difficult and costly, we believe the safety of the IT system resources should be based on the protection. With defense-in-depth in mind, the first layer of our network security plan starts with our network perimeter security. The principle network security defenses are firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IPS/IDS), VPN protections and content inspection systems like anti-virus, anti-malware, anti-spam and URL filtering. The traditional first line of defense against attacks is typically the firewall, which is configured to allow/deny traffic by  source/destination IP, port or protocol. It’s very straight forward, either traffic is allowed or it’s blocked. With the advent of Next Generation firewalls, which can include application control, identity awareness and other capabilities such as IPS, web filtering, and advanced malware detection, all of these features can be controlled by one device. COMPARTMENTALIZATION OF INFORMATION Corporation Tech will have IT system resources with different sensitivity levels or different risk tolerance levels and threat susceptibilities. These resources should be located in different security zones. The idea is to hide the data or information and make it available only to those systems where it is necessary for conducting system tasks. Examples of this are: †¢ E-mail, Web and DNS servers are located in the DMZ behind the perimeter firewall. †¢ Databases servers such as SQL servers are located in the Database Zone, within the internal firewall/IPS. †¢ Intranet servers, file servers and user workstations are in the LAN zone within the internal firewall. †¢ The Internet is located in the Internet zone behind the perimeter firewall. Principle of Least Privilege Corporation Tech administrators and users will have minimal privileges necessary for proper functioning within the organization. This rule applies also to data and services made available for external users. An extension to this rule is the â€Å"Need-To-Know† principle which says that users and administrators of Corporation Tech IT system have access to only the information relevant to their role and duties performed. Other points of security that we will address in our network services availability is the single point of failure principle, the separation of duty and job rotation rules. The network paths between users and mission-critical IT system resources, all the links, devices (networking and security) as well as the servers will be deployed in redundant configurations. The goal of the separation of duty and job rotation rule is to limit an employee’s ability to neglect and break the IT system’s security policy. Separation of duty dictates that important tasks/functions should be performed by two or more employees. Job rotation states that there should be rotation of employees in important positions. NETWORK HARDENING For each layer of security, we will ensure they are running the most up-to-date software and operating systems, and that the devices are configured properly. SECURITY ZONES Intrusion Prevention (IPS) devices are responsible for detecting and blocking penetrations and attacks conducted by intruders and malicious malware applications. We recommend an IPS be installed in the network path between potential threat sources and sensitive IT system resources. Attacks through encrypted SSL sessions are a potential vulnerability so we recommend decrypting the sessions prior to it reaching the IPS device in order to inspect unencrypted packets. The IPS will be properly optimized and monitored to catch attackers that have slipped past the first defense (firewall/router). Internal networks will not have direct access to the Internet so a Trojan sent to a user’s workstation through a phishing attack would not allow the intruder to connect to the external network. Internet services are available for internal users only through company email and HTTP Proxy servers. ENABLE SECURE NETWORK ACCESS We will install a VPN that is configured to allow encrypted communication to our network from the outside. Utilizing two-factor authentication, ensuring the integrity of the users making the request. This is external-facing to our network and allows users to tunnel into our LAN from the outside once the appropriate measures are taken to secure access. SEGMENTED DMZ There will be a front-end firewall for the external traffic and a back-end firewall for the internal traffic. Firewall rules will be optimized and tightened on all publicly available systems to allow traffic to only the necessary ports and services living within the DMZ. Firewall rules have been created to only allow the source IP addresses and port to the specific servers and proxies have been added in the network from which administrators are allowed access to the systems. Systems within different VLANs (with a layer 3 switches) have been configured to help isolate and respond to incidents if a server in the DMZ is compromised. Authentication on the LAN is required before access to the DMZ is even attempted. This prevents allowing complete control over these systems at any given time. DEVICE  INTEGRITY All hardware and software will be purchased only from the manufacturer or from resellers who are authorized and certified by the equipment manufacturer. Unused physical interfaces on network devices will be shut down. Access lists that allow only those protocols, ports and IP addresses that are required by network users and services are implemented. Everything else is denied. Network device configuration file are protected from unauthorized disclosure. Steps have been taken to avoid plaintext passwords in the configuration files. This has been accomplished by using encryption and/or a salted hash with iteration to protect the confidentiality of passwords in configuration files. Change passwords/keys immediately if the network device configuration file is transmitted in the clear (or is otherwise exposed) while containing non-encrypted passwords/keys. Secure protocols will be used when transmitting network device configuration files. All unneeded services on network devices must be sh ut down. Log files will be reviewed regularly to gain an in depth understanding of normal network behavior. Any irregularity will be reported and investigated. SECURE MANAGEMENT Only secure protocol standards (SSHv2; IKEv2/IPsec; TLS v1.0+) will be used when performing remote management of network devices. Default usernames and/or passwords will not be used. The network infrastructure security policy should define password length and complexity requirements. Review the network infrastructure security policy. This policy identifies who is allowed to log in to network infrastructure devices and who is allowed to configure network devices, and defines a plan for updating network device firmware at scheduled intervals. PORT VULNERABILITES Port 25 – Is used for SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol). It uses both tcp and udp protocols. This port used for e-mail routing between mail servers and is susceptible to many known Trojan’s. We are keeping this port in a closed state. Port 80 – Is used for web traffic Hyper Text Transfer Protocol (HTTP). It uses both tcp and udp protocols. Port 80 udp is also used by some  games, like Alien vs Predator. Code Red and Nimda worms also propagate via TCP port 80 (HTTP). Also, a number of trojans/backdoors use these ports. We are keeping this port in a closed state. Port 139 – Is used for NetBIOS. NetBIOS is a protocol used for File and Print Sharing under all current versions of Windows. By default, when File and Print Sharing is enabled it binds to everything, including TCP/IP (The Internet Protocol), rather than just the local network, meaning your shared resources are available over the entire Internet for reading and deletion, unless configured proper ly. Any machine with NetBIOS enabled and not configured properly should be considered at risk. The best protection is to turn off File and Print Sharing, or block ports 135-139 completely. We will leave this port in an open state but will turn off file and print sharing capabilities. Port 1900 – Is used for SSDP, UPnP. UPnP discovery/SSDP, is a service that runs by default on WinXP, and creates an immediately exploitable security vulnerability for any network-connected system. It is vulnerable to denial of service and buffer overflow attacks. Microsoft SSDP Enables discovery of UPnP devices. We are keeping this port in a closed state. Port 2869 – Is IANA registered for: ICSLAP. It uses both tcp and udp protocols and is used for Microsoft Internet Connection Firewall (ICF), Internet Connection Sharing (ICS), SSDP Discover Service, Microsoft Universal Plug and Play (UPnP), and Microsoft Event Notification. We will leave this port in an open state. Port 5357 – Is used by Microsoft Network Discovery, and should be filtered for public networks. It uses both tcp and udp protocols. It is also IANA registered for: Web Services for Devices (WSD) a network plug-and-play experience that is similar to installing a USB device. WSD allows network-connected IP-based devices to advertise their functionality and offer these services to clients by using the Web Services protocol. WSD communicates over HTTP (TCP port 5357), HTTPS (TCP port 5358), and multicast to UDP port 3702. We will close this port and redirect traffic to HTTPS (TCP port 5358). Port 6839 – This port is not associated with any particular services and should be closed unless it is associated and used. Port 7435 – This port is not associated with any particular services and should be closed unless it is associated and used. Ports 9100, 9101 and 9102 – These TCP ports are is used for printing. Port numbers 9101 and 9102 are for parallel ports 2 and 3 on the three-port HP Jetdirect external print  servers. It is used for network-connected print devices. These ports should remain open to allow print services. There are no listed vulnerabilities associated with these ports. Port 9220 This port is for raw scanning to peripherals with IEEE 1284.4 specifications. On three port HP Jetdirects, the scan ports are 9290, 9291, and 9292. It is used for network-connected print devices. This port should remain open to allow print services. There are no listed vulnerabilities associated with this port. Port 9500 – TCP Port 9500 may use a defined protocol to communicate depending on the application. In our case we are using port 9500 to access the ISM Server. The ISM Server is used for exchanging backup and recovery information between storage devices. This port should remain open while services are in use. There are no listed vulnerabilities associated with this port. Port 62078 This port is used by iPhone while syncing. The Port used by UPnP for multimedia files sharing, also used for synchronizing iTunes files between devices. Port 62078 has a known vulnerability in that a service named lockdownd sits and listens on the iPhone on port 62078. By connecting to this port and speaking the correct protocol, it’s possible to spawn a number of different services on an iPhone or iPad. This port should be blocked or closed when service is not required on the device. References BEST: Network Security Policy and Procedures. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.ct.gov/best/cwp/view.asp?a=1245q=253996 Example Security Plan. (2014, November 17). Retrieved from http://www.binomial.com/security_plan/example_security_plan_template.php Hardening Network Infrastructure Security Recommendations for System Accreditors. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nsa.gov/ia/_files/factsheets/Hardening_Network_Infrastructure_FS.pdf Network Security Policy: Best Practices White Paper Cisco. (2005, October 4). Retrieved from http://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/availability/high-availability/13601-secpol.html Paquet, C. (2013, February 5). Security Policies Network Security Concepts and Policies. Retrieved from http://www.ciscopress.com/articles/article.asp?p=1998559seqNum=3 SANS Information Security Resources | Information Security Policy Templates |.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Have Drugs Become Scapegoats In Wider Social Conflicts Criminology Essay

Have Drugs Become Scapegoats In Wider Social Conflicts Criminology Essay Across the world, many countries that experience issues like rising crime rates, domestic violence, unemployment, and even depression look for something to blame for these problems. Over the years there have been cases where authorities, in these countries, target illicit drugs and illegal use of pharmaceuticals as the cause of their problems. Because drug use causes such damage to addicts it easily becomes a scapegoat for wider social issues and conflicts between different racial, religious and national groups. USA In the United States, perhaps one of the most notorious examples of an illicit drug becoming a scapegoat was the situation with marijuana in the early 1900s. This stemmed back to the start of the 20th century when marijuana was mainly used by minority groups such as Mexican farm labourers, blacks from the southern states and Filipino immigrants. The 1910 Mexican revolution led to thousands of Mexicans fled to the US. The large wealthy farmers welcomed these people who were willing to work for low wages and local businesses made money because the migrants spent most of what they earned. (Marentes C Marentes C.P. 1996) However the townspeople and small farmers werent so happy about the immigration. Small family farmers were driven out of business because they couldnt compete with large farms that had cut their costs by paying cheap wages. Caught in the middle, the Mexican migrants became the focus for the economic conflict between business and labour. (Abel E L, 1980) The Mexicans use of marijuana was an easy target and racist politicians, in the farming areas, attacked the migrants as un-American and spread the myth that the use of marihuana caused insanity violence and crime. In 1911 the American consul in Mexico wrote a letter saying that marihuana causes the smoker to become exceedingly pugnacious and to run amuck without discrimination. (Richard J Bonnie, 1974, p.221) Journalists who wrote articles with shock headlines such as the Marijuana Menace and Killer Weed also encouraged these myths. Jerome L. Himmelstein argues that the Killer Weed image got created out of views that were held in society about the drugs original perceived users. Mexican labourers and other lower strata groups. These people were stereotyped as violent/enraged. This idea for marijuana continued until the user group changed during the 1960s, to the middle class youth. (Himmelstein, J.L., 1938, 7(1):35-62) In this way marijuana quickly became the popular scapegoat for the troubles of poverty, racism, and discrimination. The first states to outlaw the use of marijuana were the ones with large numbers of migrant workers from Mexico. California prohibited the possession of marijuana in 1907 and later included it in laws against hard narcotics, such as heroin and cocaine. In 1914, the town of El Paso outlawed the possession or sale of marihuana. The law wasnt really designed to protect the locals but rather as a way of making life more difficult for the foreigners who they resented. (Abel E L, 1980) In the 1960s marijuana again became the scapegoat for a social and cultural problem, this time between generations. During the sixties many young people rebelled against the lifestyle of their parents. They wore different clothes, grew their hair long and turned to different religions and radical politics. The older generation were shocked by the music they listened to, their sexual attitudes and their use of drugs such as LSD and marijuana. During this time the claim of marijuana as a Killer Weed was replaced by the opposite line of marijuana as a Drop Out Drug and in 1965, Time Magazine published an article saying that marijuana now affects users judgement and if used daily will dull a students initiative. (Time Magazine 1965, vol. 85: 49) Writing about this period in The Social Construction of Drug Scares Craig Reinarman says medical scientists were drawn into blaming drugs for the behaviour of youth because the dominant groups in society felt threatened by the younger generations rejection of conventional values. (Reinarman C (1994) 14:143) This rejection of authority came to head over the US war with North Vietnam. A large number of young Americans demonstrated against the war in Vietnam and this led to more conflict with the government authorities that wanted to neutralise the growing anti-war movement. The FBI often arrested protest leaders and activists on marijuana charges. In 1970, in response to what was seen as a growing drug problem, the US government passed the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act. Ireland Over the last 30 years Dublin, in the Republic of Ireland, has experienced an epidemic of heroin usage, and the problem continues today. Heroin first began flooding into the northern and southern part of Dublin in the late 1970s and since then heroin has become symbolically associated with violent crime, public health problems, massive unemployment and urban decay. For nearly 40 years the use of heroin has been responsible for a lot of the petty crime in Dublin. Addicts are involved in muggings, robbery of houses and prostitution as try to get money to buy the drug. But as the use of heroin criminal gangs moved into Dublin and this led to more violent crime, including many murders, as they fought to control the drug trade. A lot of the crime was between gangs but many innocent people were caught in the crossfire the most well known was Veronica Guerin, a journalist who was investigating drug crime, who was shot by criminals while stopped at a traffic light. (Maggie OKane 2000) Ireland has seen a huge increase in the number of heroin related deaths over last 30 years. According to a report in the European Journal of Public Health this is most noticeable in younger age groups where, for example, it rose from less than 1% in 1980 to 23% of 1519 year old male deaths in 1997. Many heroin users in Dublin also die from diseases such as AIDS and hepatitis caused by sharing needles. (Kelleher M J A, Keown P J, OGara C, Keaney F, Farrell M and Strang J, 2003/2004, vol. 15(6), p.589-592) In the late nineties unemployment rates in the disadvantaged areas of Dublin were estimated to be between 33% and peak at 45%. (OGorman A Illicit Drug Use In Dublin) However, in some areas this rate was as high as 55% over three times the average for all of Ireland. Many of the people who turned to heroin in the eighties and nineties lived in run down flats and as they spent more money on heroin the areas became even more dirty and miserable. As a result, many people who had lived in these areas for years and who were the source of a sense of community, moved out to different parts of the city. Often the empty flats were then used for temporary housing of homeless people, making the problem even worse. (Loughran H and McCann M E 2007, Newsletter of the Alcohol and Drug Research Unit, Issue 21) In Dublin its clear that heroin use is closely tied to the citys problems with crime, public health, massive unemployment and run down housing. However the real problem affecting most heroin users in Ireland is extreme poverty. Last year Belfast Telegraph reported the level of persistent poverty in Northern Ireland children is more than double that of those in Great Britain and said that 20% of families in Northern Ireland experience persistent poverty compared to a 10% in Great Britain. (Belfast Telegraph, 2009) A study by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) blamed high levels of unemployment, disability, lower wages and poor quality part-time jobs for the high levels of poverty. (Joseph Rowntree Foundation, 2009) Heroin addicts are the victims of this poverty and the use of the drug should not become the scapegoat for the problem. Poverty has been a major problem in Dublin for a long time. In the early 1900s its estimated that a quarter of families living in one room. (Lambert T, A Brief History of Dublin, Ireland) Heroin might be the thing that pushes people further into poverty but it wasnt the original cause of poverty in Ireland. Heroin is also not the reason for the high levels of disadvantage included the fact that 31% of the working age population isnt in paid work. Former Ireland international rugby player Gerry McLoughlin spoke out on the issues in Ireland saying the government had poor organisation in combating the drug epidemic. It seems to him that the real issue wasnt the Heroin, but abysmal efforts and moves made by Irelands government to fix issues of poverty, increasing crime and failing aid. All of which led to the drug usage. (Cusack J, 2008) There are all these people in quangos who are supposed to be dealing with this, but we can see nothing being done. There is no treatment or rehab centre in Limerick. We see all these people politicians included in their plush, posh offices doing nothing. They are out of touch with the suffering of people on the ground. (McLoughlin G and Cusack J, 2008) In the eyes of GARDAI (Garda Sochna na hireann Guardians of the Peace (of Ireland)) police, Heroin is seen as the drug of economic recession, as back in the 1980s, the drug took hold of the working class during economic failure. (Cusack J, 2008) Illicit drugs are a massive problem in many countries but in cases such as America and Ireland the use of drugs was made a scapegoat for social and cultural problems that had many other causes. References List Abel E L, (1980), Marijuana The First Twelve Thousand Years: Reefer Racism, Schaffer Library of Drug Policy, http://www.druglibrary.org/Schaffer/hemp/history/first12000/11.htm , Accessed 24 April 2010 Cusack Jim (2008). Gardai fear epidemic of heroin in rural areas, The Independant National News Himmelstein, J.L. (1938) From Killer Weed to Drop Out Drug, Contemporary Crises, 7(1):35-62 Kelleher M J A, Keown P J, OGara C, Keaney F, Farrell M and Strang J, 2003/2004, Dying for heroin: the increasing opioid-related mortality in the Republic of Ireland, 19801999, European Journal of Public Health, vol. 15(6), p.589-592 Lambert T, A Brief History of Dublin, Ireland, http://www.localhistories.org/dublin.html , Accessed 1 May 2010 Loughran H and McCann M E (2007) A community drugs study, Newsletter of the Alcohol and Drug Research Unit, Issue 21 Marentes C Marentes C.P., (1996) The first migrant workers http://www.farmworkers.org/immigrat.html Accessed 23 April 2010 New Policy Institute 2009 Monitoring poverty and social exclusion in Northern Ireland, Joseph Rowntree Foundation OGorman A, Illicit Drug Use In Dublin http://www.drugsandalcohol.ie/4272/1/791-0739.pdf , Accessed 29 April 2010 OKane M (2000), The woman who knew too much The Guardian, Reinarman C (1994) The Social Construction of Drug Scares, Wadsworth Publishing Co., Chpt. 14: p143 Richard J Bonnie, (1974), The marihuana conviction;: A history of marihuana prohibition in the United States, University Press of Virginia; 1st edition p.221 Time Magazine (1965) Education: The Pot Problem, Time vol. 85: 49

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Minority Rules :: essays research papers

In the novel A Tale of Two Cities, by Charles Dickens, the author uses many minor characters. Although labelled "minor", these characters contribute fully, and are essential to the depth and excitement of the novel. Three such characters are: Miss Pross, Gaspard, and Jerry Cruncher. These three characters take on a couple different roles, depending on what point in the novel one is at. From the beginning, and throughout the novel, Miss Pross plays a simple role. She takes care of Lucie Manette. A simple role it may seem to be, but she adds humor to the story from the offset. Once Lucie and Dr. Manette have returned to England, after Dr. Manette's imprisonment, Miss Pross continues to take an influential role in the story. She is constantly looking after Lucie and this includes Miss Pross attempting to discourage any suitors. Miss Pross is quite successful at appearing and acting in a commanding and intimidating manner. An example of this is when Mr. Lorry came to visit at the Manette's home; "...Miss Pross, the wild red woman, strong of hand...`I don't want dozens of people who are not all worthy of Ladybird, to come looking after her....to take Ladybird's affections away from me.'" Miss Pross being part of the novel deepens the plot by providing some humor and giving the reader another side to consider when thinking of Lucie and her several relationships. Gaspard's purpose in the novel is dissimilar to that of Miss Pross. Gaspard is used to help the reader understand how the majority of the French population was feeling prior to the revolution. Gaspard and the other peasants were treated, by the aristocracy, as if they were disgusting rodents. When Gaspard's son is run over by the Marquis, all the Marquis is worried about, is if his horses or his coach were hurt or damaged. Gaspard's anger and realization of how he is being treated causes him to rebel and kill the Marquis. The one murder symbolizes the animosity of all the peasants and is a taste of what is to come with the revolution. Gaspard was therefore used to foreshadow what is to happen in the future, this is auvioce especially after Gaspard is captured and hung. He is left hanging with a knife in him so that he poisons the water. Later that afternoon the Jacquerie are talking in Defarge's wine shop of how "the chateau and all the race.

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

International Court Of Justice :: essays research papers fc

Overview   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The issue of international terrorism is one that has engulfed the global community. With terrorism on the increase, we have seen that its importance has increased. Whether domestic or international in nature, terrorism is having an ever-increasing impact upon the international community. The United States has fallen victim to acts of terrorism recently, most notably the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, OK, and the 1998 bombings of U.S. Embassies in Kenya and Tanzania. Upon investigation, it was revealed that the embassy bombings were linked to Osama Bin Laden, a former Saudi Arabian National whose excessive bank accounts fund a worldwide terrorist operation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Further investigation revealed that Bin Laden was living in Afghanistan in a camp protected by his own 200-man private army and a sub-unit of the Taliban, a quasi-religious organization operating within Afghanistan’s borders (MSNBC, 10/12/99). The United States, backed by other nations who have had terrorist attacks related to Bin Laden, appealed to the United Nations Security Council to call for the extradition of Osama Bin Laden for trial.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In response to the request, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 1267 on October 15, 1999. The resolution called for sanctions to be placed on Afghanistan effective November 14, 1999 unless the Taliban turned over suspected terrorist Osama Bin Laden to the appropriate authorities. Bin Laden is currently a suspect in financing terrorist activities in nation-states such as Algeria, Jordan, Egypt, Israel, Kenya, and even the United States of America. Worldwide intelligence networks have been attempting to maintain constant surveillance of him in order to help deter further acts. However, he is still free, protected by the Taliban, who share many of the same fundamentalist beliefs with him.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  International Law has established several procedures for the extradition and trial of international terrorists. Currently, there are eleven documents of international law, which address the issue states’ responsibility for combating terrorism (USIA, Feb. 1999). Bearing in mind the precedence established in international law as well as the nature of these activities that have been associated with Osama Bin Laden, it is appropriate to impose sanctions upon the Taliban for the surrender of Osama Bin Laden to the proper authorities. I.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  History of International Terrorism   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  International terrorism has changed in structure and design over the centuries. Jewish zealots conducted campaigns against the Romans in the first century AD, and the Hashshashin, a Shi’ah Muslim group who gave us the word assassin, systematically murdered those in positions and leadership during the 19th century (CSIS, July 1999).

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Procedure Cost Control

Procedure for Cost Control | | | Table of Contents 1. Purpose 2. General 3. Responsibilities 4. Procedure 5. Flowchart 6. References 7. Attachments 1. PurposeTo establish a system whereby developments which affect the costs of the project are timely reported, thereby allowing for corrective action when adverse trends are detected, and to inform about funding requirements for the execution of the project. To establish a procedure to control flow of information which affects anticipated final project cost.This procedure shall be used in combination with the â€Å"Procedure for Project Variations† [1], the â€Å"Planning Procedure† [2] and the â€Å"Procedure for the Project execution Control system† [3]. 2. GeneralAt project start, generally a high level budget is available and in many cases underlaying details about estimated costs are also available. These documents, however, are in most cases not adequate for effective cost control. Therefore, this procedure req uires that in an early stage of the project a control budget is prepared, based on the available information and within the boundaries of the high level (AS SOLD) budget.Cost control within Company generally consists of the following categories:- Company Services (reimbursable Engineering, Procurement , Construction Management and outside services) also client cost reporting. – The investment cost reporting which includes all costs within the scope of the project (e. g. direct supplied materials, subcontracts, services including Company's services etc. ). – Company internal cost report which is limited to Company's services, including non reimbursable costs. The requirement for the first two categories largely depends on the scope of work for the project and the contract type.Regardless of the scope of work and the contract type, internal cost reporting will always be required. The cost reports shall as a minimum contain the following information:- Original budget. â⠂¬â€œ Current budget, being the sum of the original budget and the approved change orders. – Commitments to date. – Anticipated final, being the sum of the current budget, pending change orders and approved deviations from plan. Approved change notices which have not yet been converted into change orders are excluded from the anticipated final.They are reported in a change Order Register, which is part of the cost report. Cost forecasts shall be made regularly through sampling, trend analysis and bottoms up estimates to complete. Deviations from plan shall be made where cost forecasts at cost report line item level deviate from the current anticipated final. 2. 1 Company Services2. 1. 1 The Company services cost report includes manhours and costs of manhours, computer application, reproduction, communication, travel, outside services etc. The structure of the report has to be defined at the start of the project.Requirements for reporting in the client's code of account and grouping by client's work packages have to be carefully examined to determine the level of detail at which the costs are controlled. 2. 1. 2 In general the level at which costs are controlled should be of sufficient detail to allow for consolidation in both Company's project cost codes and the combination of client defined work packages and code of accounts. The selected level of detail must allow for reliable progress reporting in combination with reporting of the expended manhours as required for trend analysis.Too much detail generally results in reduced quality and is a waste of effort. 2. 1. 3 An â€Å"end of project breakdown† should be considered when the client requires to know the project cost in more detail than the level at which effective cost control is done. 2. 1. 4 To ease time phased budgeting and forecasting at discipline level, the cost control system should follow the work breakdown structure of the planning and project execution Control (PEC) system. 2. 1. 5 Based on the available information (budget, progress, actuals, schedule etc. , the cost engineer makes a forecast on final manhours and costs and reviews this forecast with the parties involved. For line items where the forecast deviates from the anticipated final a deviation of Plan is prepared. Only deviations approved by the project manager are included in the cost report. 2. 2 Investment Cost2. 2. 1 The Investment cost Report includes costs of Company's services at a consolidated level, direct supplied materials, subcontracts and any other costs which fall within the cost control scope. The structure of the report has to be defined at the start of the project.Requirements for reporting in the client's code of account and grouping by client's work packages have to be carefully examined to determine the level of detail at which the cost details are maintained. 2. 2. 2 In general, the level at which the cost details are maintained should be of sufficient detail, to allow fo r consolidation in both Company's cost codes and the combination of client defined work packages and code of accounts. The selected level of detail must allow realistic allocation of commitments and development of forecasted finals.Too much detail generally results in reduced quality and is a waste of effort. 2. 2. 3 An â€Å"asset breakdown† at the end of the project should be considered when the client requires to know the project cost in more detail, than the level at which effective cost control is done. 2. 2. 4 To ease the development of commitment ; expenditure curves, the investment cost control system and the planning system are preferably integrated to the extend that scheduled and actual dates for commitments can be obtained from the planning system at budget line item level.Therefore, the investment cost control structure should largely follow the work breakdown structure of the planning and project execution control (PEC) system. 2. 2. 5 The design development all owances (DDA) for outstanding commitments are to be reviewed periodically and shall be reduced over time when it becomes more certain that there are no further developments expected (e. g. vendor documents approved, inspection reports received etc. ). Grouping DDA for budget line items of the same account group into one DDA line item for that group, rather than including a DDA for each line item, is recommended.The cost report should show the value of the DDA or a back up report should be available. 2. 2. 6 For main equipment and for bulk materials the cost code is at least at requisition level. For subcontracts, the cost code is for small subcontracts at subcontract level and for larger subcontracts (e. g. mechanical subcontract) the cost code is at main category (pay item) level. 2. 3 Internal Cost Report2. 3. 1 The internal cost report shall be limited to Company's scope of work and will include for reimbursable type contracts the non reimbursable costs.The level of detail for th e internal cost report shall be established at project start, taking internal reporting requirements, such as the current cost outlook (CCO), the monthly project status report (MPSR) and executive summary report (ESR), into account. 2. 4 Cost Engineering Scope Document2. 4. 1 At job start the cost engineer issues the â€Å"cost engineering scope† which contains at a minimum the following information: * Scope of â€Å"work† to be covered by the project cost engineer. * Cost engineering deliverables, together with their frequency and timing. Report layouts and level of detail. * Project reporting period cut off dates. * Cost engineering staffing plan and cost engineering manhours. * Computer programs and methods to be used. * Anticipated involvement of estimating for the preparation of bottoms up estimates to complete and for the development of the control budget. * Planned dates for the first issue of the control budgets. * Distribution schedules. * Currency exchange ra tes and reporting currency. 3. Responsibilities3. Each project team member shall immediately respond when their input is required for reporting physical progress and to determine the anticipated finals as required for the cost report preparation and shall work towards minimizing the duration for execution of this procedure. 3. 2 The Project Manager is Responsible for:- Providing the cost engineer with information about the cost engineering scope of work, specific client and project requirements, â€Å"AS SOLD† budget and any underlaying estimate details and any other information required by the cost engineer to prepare the cost engineering scope document and the control budget(s). Approving the cost engineering scope, control budget(s), deviation from plans and cost reports(s). 3. 3 Lead Discipline Engineers are Responsible for:- Updating of material quantity forecasts after key engineering documents have been issued and for timely reporting of changes, in writing (â€Å"cha nge alert†), to the project manager. – Providing monthly updates on the physical progress of their discipline(s) and to review together with the project cost Engineer the manhour forecast. 3. 4 The Cost Engineer is Responsible for:- Maintaining the cost control system and for the timely preparation of the Period cost Reports. Expediting the Lead Discipline Engineers to ensure that they provide their timely input as required for cost control. – Comparison of vendor and subcontractor quotations with the control budget and underlaying detailed estimate and for detection of unit rate trends based on quotation and purchase order/subcontract unit rates. – Development and maintenance of planned and actual commitment versus expenditure reports from which the planned and actual cost Progress Curves are generated. . 5 The project buyer/subcontract engineer is responsible for timely input to the cost engineer of vendor quotations and purchase order/ subcontract Unit Rates. 3. 6 The project Accountant is responsible for informing the project cost Engineer about actual expenditures, currency exchange costs and invoice status. 4. Procedure4. 1 Company Services4. 1. 1 Provide Cost Engineer with the Required Information:At the project start, the project manager provides the cost ngineer with information about the cost engineering scope of work, specific client and project requirements, â€Å"AS SOLD† budget, any underlaying estimate details and any other information required by the cost engineer to prepare the cost engineering scope document and the control budget(s). 4. 1. 2 Prepare Cost Engineering Scope DocumentThe cost engineer prepares a document which lists the project requirements with respect to cost engineering and other relevant information as mentioned under item 2. 4. 1. 4. 1. Approved by Project ManagerThe approved cost engineering scope document shall be the basis for the work of the cost engineer for the remainder of the projec t. 4. 1. 4 Develop Control Budget(s) for Company ServicesThe project cost engineer converts with, when required, the support of the estimating department the detailed estimate into a control budget. The cost details are consolidated and amended as required at a control level. The control level shall be at sufficient detail to allow for meaningful control and shall allow for timely and cost effective trending, progress measurement and collection of actual costs.A general consensus with all parties involved about the work breakdown structure should exist prior to the actual conversion takes place. 4. 1. 5 Approved by Project ManagerThe project Manager shall approve the control budget which than becomes the â€Å"original budget† of the project. 4. 1. 6 Approved Change OrderAdjustments of the budget require an approved change order once the control budget has been approved. Details of each Approved change order are recorded separately at control budget level, thereby maintaining a complete back-up of the approved changes.The approved change orders together with the â€Å"original budget† form the â€Å"current budget†. 4. 1. 7 Company Services Expended Costs & Manhours and Invoice StatusFollowing the monthly cut off, the project accountant shall provide the cost engineer with information about all expended manhours, manhours costs and other costs of Company services. Preferably at control budget line item level, or at a more detailed level which allows for consolidation at control budget line item level. For reimbursable type projects, the project accountant shall not only provide internal costs, but also the costs to the client at the same level of detail.The project accountant shall inform the cost engineer in detail about any delayed cost bookings or provisional bookings. Furthermore, the project accountant provides the invoice status information as required for the executive summary report. 4. 1. 8 Physical Progress at Control Budget Leve lFollowing the monthly cut off, the planning engineer provides the cost engineer with physical progress information (percentage complete) at control budget line item level for engineering and subcontract work. The progress information must have been reviewed with the disciplines involved prior to passing it on to the cost engineer.It is preferred that the engineering physical progress is obtained from the â€Å"project execution control† system (PEC). 4. 1. 9 Cost ForecastByanalyzing the available information about budget, actuals and physical progress and using historical data, the cost engineer makes a forecast about the final project costs at budget line item level. When there are indications of major deviations from the current anticipated finals, a bottoms up detailed estimate to complete might be required to generate a reliable forecast.Towards the end of the project the forecast should be based on â€Å"punch list† items to be completed. The cost engineer shall review these forecasts with the disciplines involved. 4. 1. 10 Approved Deviation from PlanThe cost engineer prepares a deviation from plan for budget line items which forecasted costs deviate from the current anticipated finals and for which the project manager expects that management action will not result in maintaining the current anticipated finals. 4. 1. 1 Update Anticipated FinalsThe cost engineer updates the current anticipated finals only based on approved deviations from plan, approved change orders and pending change orders for which the client has already approved the change notice. 4. 1. 12 Investment and Company Services Cost Report(s), Project Cost Report and Cost NarrativesThe cost engineer prepares following the period (monthly) cut off the Company services cost reports (internal and client reports) and the investment cost report, taking the latest information into account.The combined reports, together with the commitment versus expenditure report, the currency con version table and any other reports or curves that are required for the project from the project cost report. Together with the report, the cost engineer provides a narrative which describes the period highlights. Furthermore, the narratives should include major developments which have come to light during the last period, but for which time did not allow for the preparation of a deviation from Plan. These late developments are to be included in accordance with the procedure in the next cost report. . 1. 13 Approved by Project Manager and Cost Reports Issued. The project manager approves the project cost report after which it is distributed by the cost Engineer in accordance with the distribution schedule as defined in the cost engineering scope. 4. 2 Investment Cost4. 2. 1 Develop Control Budget for Investment Cost. The project cost engineer converts with, when required, the support of the Estimating department the detailed estimate into a control budget. The cost details are conso lidated and amended as required at a control level.The control level shall be at sufficient detail to allow for meaningful control and shall allow for timely and cost effective trending, allocation of commitments and assessment of estimates to complete. A general consensus with all parties involved about the work breakdown structure should exist prior to issuing the control budget for approval to the project manager. 4. 2. 2 Approved by Project Manager. The project Manager shall approve the control budget which than becomes the â€Å"original budget† of the project. 4. 2. Approved Change Order, Update Current Budget and Anticipated FinalsAdjustments of the budget require an approved change order once the control budget has been approved. Details of each approved change Order are recorded separately at control budget line item level, thereby maintaining a complete back-up of the approved changes. The approved change orders together with the â€Å"original budget† form t he â€Å"current budget†. The anticipated finals are updated to reflect the effect of the change order. Note that the anticipated finals may already have been updated at the time that the change order was issued for approval. 4. 2. Purchase Order/Subcontract PlacedPurchase Order and subcontract details at control budget level shall be made available for the cost engineer by the project buyer and the subcontracts manager. In particular information about options and other relevant information which will influence the final commitments is to be highlighted. 4. 2. 5 Update Commitment versus Expenditure Report and Forecast FinalThe cost Engineer shall regularly update the commitments versus expenditure report with purchase order and subcontract details. Furthermore, the project cost engineer shall evaluate the forecast finals to reflect the effect of the commitments.A design development allowance for outstanding commitments has to be included in the forecast finals at the time of commitment and subsequently reduced over time. 4. 2. 6 Issue of Key Engineering DocumentsThe lead discipline engineer shall review the material quantity requirements when key engineering documents (e. g. P&ID's, equipment summary sheets, MTO's, requisitions) are issued to determine whether forecasts require to be updated. Generally it will not be required to have documents which cover the complete scope of work.Comparing samples with the detailed estimate will generally be an adequate basis to determine trends in material and installation requirements. 4. 2. 7 Revised Quantity Forecast/Prepare Change AlertThe lead discipline engineer prepares a change alert and issues it to the project manager when he determines the need to revise the current material and/or installation requirement forecast. 4. 2. 8 Vendor Quotations/Purchase Order Unit RatesThe project cost engineer shall compare the unit rates obtained from vendor quotations and purchase orders with the unit rates in the detailed estimate. . 2. 9 Revised Unit Rates/Prepare Change AlertThe project cost engineer shall prepare a change alert and issue it to the project manager when he determines the need to change the current forecast finals as a result of change in the unit rates. 4. 2. 10 Approved by Project Manager – Approved Deviation from PlanUpon approval of the change Alert by the project manager, the cost engineer prepares a deviation from plan which reflects the changed unit rates or the changed material and/or installation requirements.This deviation from plan is approved by the project manager prior to incorporating it into the cost report. 4. 2. 11 Invoice Paid? Update Commitments Versus Expenditure Report. The cost engineer updates the commitment versus expenditure report with the expended amounts. Furthermore, the cost engineer ensures that any design development allowances for the corresponding budget line item is removed from the cost forecast when final payments have been made.All parti es involved, in particular, the project manager, the construction manager, the project buyer and the subcontracts manager, shall inform the cost engineer about (potential) claims or other costs for which the cost engineer might have to make reservations. 4. 2. 12 Cost ForecastBy analyzing the available information about budget, commitments and forecasts to complete and using historical data, the cost engineer makes a forecast about the final project costs at budget line item level. When there are indications of major deviations from the current anticipated finals, a bottoms up detailed estimate to complete might be equired to generate a reliable forecast. Towards the end of the project the forecast should be based on â€Å"punch list† items to be completed. The cost engineer shall review these forecasts with the disciplines involved. 4. 2. 13 Deviation form Anticipated Final? The cost engineer prepares a deviation from plan for budget line items which forecasted cost deviate from the current anticipated finals and for which the project manager expects that management action will not result in maintaining the current anticipated finals. 4. 2. 4 ContinuationThe Investment cost section of this procedure joins the Company services section at item 4. 1. 12. 5. FlowchartThe Cost Control Flowchart consist of the following interlinked sections:6. References | Document Number| Description| | 6. 1| CM-PE-313| Control of Project Variations| 2| 6. 2| CM-PE-910| Planning Procedure| 2| 6. 3| | Procedure for the Project Execution Control System (Later)| | | | | No Iframes | | | | Gadgets powered by Google| | ‘reliability is yet to become the most important characterstic of modern companies' home | privacy | legal

Monday, September 16, 2019

Comparative Essay on Mid Term Break and Death of a Naturalist Essay

Read the poem Mid Term Break in which Heaney writes about life and loss. Choose one other poem written by Heaney which also deals with these themes. Compare how the two poems deal with Heaney’s thoughts and feelings. In the poem â€Å"Mid Term Break† Heaney deals with his thoughts and feelings on life and loss. These ideas are also addressed in â€Å"Death of a Naturalist†. The poet utilises a range of poetic techniques to convey the demise of his childhood and the disruption of natural order. The portrayal of death in the poems connote the poet’s feeling that life is futile; these themes combine to present Heaney’s feelings on life and loss. Primarily, Heaney portrays the demise of his childhood in â€Å"Mid Term Break†, clearly presenting his dejected, sullen and resigned feelings towards life in the event of loss. The image of time and death in stanza one, â€Å"I sat all morning†¦counting bells knelling†¦at two o’clock† clearly show his sense of logical reminiscence during a particularly morbid time in his life. The juxtaposition of the morning and the symbolic death bells represent the premature end to his brother’s life and the destruction of his own childhood. This shows sullen resignation towards the event of loss in his life. This childhood demise is also presented in DOAN. However, Heaney presents this in a more dramatic manner. Stanza one is longer than the second stanza, presenting how the poet revelled in his days of innocence. It also contains a tone of mystery and natural wealth, â€Å"bubbles gargled delicately, bluebottles/wove a strong gauze of sound†¦Ã¢â‚¬  through the use of synesthetic verbs to personify nature, Heaney portrays his nostalgic feelings towards this period of childhood innocence. This is emphasised through enjambment, which creates a sense of freedom. The demise of this is seen through the tonal shift, â€Å"then one hot day† in stanza two, moving the reader into the harshness of his adulthood. The contrast in language is also evidence of this, it becoming grotesque and fearful, â€Å"gross bellied†¦ obscene threats†¦farting heads†¦mud grenades.† Connotations of war, vengeance and threat are apparent, depicting his childhood demise through his negative perceptions of nature. Thus, it is clear from both pieces that Heaney has varied views on life and loss. In MTB the reader learns of his confusion and resignation as a result of his experience of death. However, DOAN presents a metaphorical depiction of how childhood is lost as a result of the harsh and oppressive adult world.