Expenditures and revenues summary free essay sample

Lynch and Smith, 2004 state that, â€Å"A â€Å"budget† is a plan for the accomplishment of programs related to objectives and goals within a definite time period, including an estimate of resources required, together with an estimate of the resources available, usually compared with one or more past periods and showing future requirements. † State and local government is truly â€Å"big business. † Allison, Freeman, Patton, Shoulders, and Smith, Jr. , 2011 state that, â€Å"The 50 states and 87,000 local governments within the United States employ more than 17 million persons-almost six times the federal government civilian employment—and spend more than trillion annually. Although the federal government accounts for over half of all government expenditures, state and local government spend more for nondefense purposes than does the federal government. † Revenues and Expenditures Business dictionary 2013, defines revenue as the income generated from sale of goods or services, or any other use of capital or assets, associated with the main operations of an organization before any costs or expenses are deducted. We will write a custom essay sample on Expenditures and revenues summary or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Revenue is shown usually as the top item in an income (profit and loss) statement from which all charges, costs, and expenses are subtracted to arrive at net income. Expenditures—recognized in governmental fund financial statements—are net financial assets expended during a period for current operations, capital outlay, long-term debt principal retirement, and interest. With the exception of long-term debt principal retirement, expenditures typically reflect the net financial assets expended to acquire goods or services, whereas expenses reflect the costs of goods or services used (Allison, Freeman, Patton, Shoulders, Smith, Jr. , 2011, p. 41). The role of the federal government is to monitor/regulate the economy through interest rates, to control inflation, and to boost economy during stagnation. Federal government is in charge of national defense and it can legally print money (Public Budgeting and Financial Management, 2013). Three main sources of federal revenue include individual income taxes, payroll taxes, and corporate income taxes. Almost half of all federal revenue (46 percent) comes from income taxes. The income tax is generally progressive: higher-income households pay a larger share than lower-income households do (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, 2013). Another 35 percent of revenue comes from payroll taxes, which are assessed on the wage or salary paychecks of almost all workers and used to fund Social Security, Medicare, Hospital Insurance, and unemployment insurance. Corporate income taxes make up about ten percent (10%) of federal revenue, with the remaining nine percent (9%) coming from excise taxes, estate taxes, and other taxes (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, 2013). The sources of Federal revenue come from the General Fund. The General Fund is used â€Å"to account for and report all financial resources not accounted for and reported in another fund. All governments with general government activities will have one General Fund. For most governments, the majority of their general government activities and the largest number and dollar amount of their transactions are reported in the General Fund (Allison, Freeman, Patton, Shoulders, Smith, Jr. , 2011, p. 46). The role of the state government is to promote the state economy and to take operational control over most government programs for individuals, such as social programs and risk management (Public Budgeting and Financial Management, 2013). Three sources of state revenue include: selective sales tax (gasoline, tobacco, and alcohol), general sales tax, and lottery. Many state governments charge a sales tax on gasoline that only can be used by the state to construct or maintain roads. The proceeds from this sales tax are recorded as revenues (increasing fund balance) in a Special Revenue Fund (Allison, Freeman, Patton, Shoulders, Smith, Jr. , 2011, p. 47). Sales tax is imposed on the sale of goods and certain services in South Carolina. The statewide sales and use tax rate is six percent (6%). Counties may impose an additional one percent (1%) local sales tax. Voters in Hampton County approved the one percent (1%) local sales tax which caused the taxes to increase to seven percent (7%). Generally all retail sales are subject to the sales tax (South Carolina Department of Revenue, 2013). The proceeds from the general sales tax are recorded in the General Fund. In November 2000, South Carolina voters approved a state lottery. Lottery proceeds are transferred to the Education Lottery Account. Revenues are used to supplement existing resources for educational purposes and programs. The role of the local government is to look after parts of the local community that are public property such as local roads and parks. They decide where new local and buildings should go and all decisions have to be approved by the council (Public Budgeting and Financial Management, 2013). Three sources of revenue for local government include: property taxes, local taxes, and intergovernmental transfers. Property taxes are used to fund important programs such as public schools and infrastructure. It remains a major cost for homeowners and they vary widely from one municipality to another. Property taxes are tracked in the county’s General Fund. Local taxes are assessed and levied by a local authority such as a county or municipality used to fund services such as garbage collection and sewer maintenance. Benefits from local taxes are apparent at the community level (Public Budgeting and Financial Management, 2013). Local taxes are generated from the county’s Municipal Fund. Intergovernmental transfers are transfers of funds from one level of government to another. This may be to fund general government operations or for specific purposes (National League of Cities, 2013). They are tracked in the General Fund as well as other funds depending on level of government they are transferred from. Conclusion Government financial reporting must address numerous issues that differ from those in the business environment. South Carolina relies on the two major broad-based taxes for the bulk of state revenue, the individual income tax and the retail sales tax. Changes in the economy can have an effect on tax revenue and expenditures within the state’s public budget.

Free Essays on Thanatopsis

â€Å"Thanatopsis† â€Å"Thanatopsis† written by William Cullen Bryant in 1817, is an explication of death. Thanatopsis, which is Greek for â€Å"meditation on death† (Michael et. al. 712), is an exploration into the ambiguity of death and Bryant attempts to show the relationship between death’s eternal questions and the continuance of the cycle of nature and life. William Cullen Bryant is often described as an early Romanticist who also exhibits some characteristics of earlier types of thinking such as, Calvinism. In this poem, he establishes a clear link between God and Nature through his use of images in relation to; society, destiny, social status and everlasting trust in the afterlife. Although he views these entities from a mainly romanticist viewpoint, the poem also has many underlying attributes to a Calvinistic way of thinking. William Cullen Bryant was born November 3rd, 1794. He was born into a Puritan family yet has was influenced by early English Romantics during his teens and by his father who encouraged him to spend time outdoors and learn from it. He wrote his first draft of â€Å"Thanatopsis† when he was just sixteen years yet the poem wasn’t actually published until 1821, when his first book of poetry, Poems was published (Bryant). Romanticism began in the early 19th century as a way of moving away from the Enlightenment, where everything was based on reason and science. People were consistently trying to explain things in cold, hard facts. What the Romantics were trying to get people to do was do away with that rational, constricted view of life and focus on the â€Å"emotion and sentimental side of humanity† (Romanticism). It was a focus on society as being part of a group rather than individuals clearly delineated by social distinction. In â€Å"Thanatopsis† Bryant expresses theses views in his contemplation of death and sees the beauty in it. He wants society to realize that when one dies they do not die al... Free Essays on Thanatopsis Free Essays on Thanatopsis â€Å"Thanatopsis† â€Å"Thanatopsis† written by William Cullen Bryant in 1817, is an explication of death. Thanatopsis, which is Greek for â€Å"meditation on death† (Michael et. al. 712), is an exploration into the ambiguity of death and Bryant attempts to show the relationship between death’s eternal questions and the continuance of the cycle of nature and life. William Cullen Bryant is often described as an early Romanticist who also exhibits some characteristics of earlier types of thinking such as, Calvinism. In this poem, he establishes a clear link between God and Nature through his use of images in relation to; society, destiny, social status and everlasting trust in the afterlife. Although he views these entities from a mainly romanticist viewpoint, the poem also has many underlying attributes to a Calvinistic way of thinking. William Cullen Bryant was born November 3rd, 1794. He was born into a Puritan family yet has was influenced by early English Romantics during his teens and by his father who encouraged him to spend time outdoors and learn from it. He wrote his first draft of â€Å"Thanatopsis† when he was just sixteen years yet the poem wasn’t actually published until 1821, when his first book of poetry, Poems was published (Bryant). Romanticism began in the early 19th century as a way of moving away from the Enlightenment, where everything was based on reason and science. People were consistently trying to explain things in cold, hard facts. What the Romantics were trying to get people to do was do away with that rational, constricted view of life and focus on the â€Å"emotion and sentimental side of humanity† (Romanticism). It was a focus on society as being part of a group rather than individuals clearly delineated by social distinction. In â€Å"Thanatopsis† Bryant expresses theses views in his contemplation of death and sees the beauty in it. He wants society to realize that when one dies they do not die al... Free Essays on Thanatopsis The poem, â€Å"Thanatopsis,† written by William Cullen Bryant, is a wonderful literary work which explores the often controversial questions of death. Within his well written lines Bryant attempts to show the relationship between death’s eternal questions and the ongoing cycle of nature and life. Upon concluding the poem many readers are able to reaffirm their faith of an afterlife, while others are left aimlessly pondering this strange possibility. Throughout the poem Bryant creates images which connect death and sleep. In fact, once the reader gets halfway through the poem they discover that Bryant uses these words almost interchangeably. In the second stanza he writes, â€Å"All that tread the globe are but a handful to the tribes that slumber in its bosom.† Instead of referring to death he uses the word â€Å"slumber.† These connections continue in a number of places. Other examples include lines 57 and 66. In line 57 he writes, â€Å"In their last s leep the dead reign there alone,† and in line 66, referring to death and burial, Bryant writes, â€Å"And make their bed with thee.† This connection between death and sleep creates an intriguing metaphor which adds depth and meaning to the poem. By using this strange metaphor I believe Bryant wishes to suggest his faith in an afterlife. While examining the differences and similarities of death and sleep the reader is left with some very thought provoking questions. The answers to these questions reassure some readers while confusing others. Sleep is a time of rest. It allows preparation for the next day or event, and by relating this definition to death Bryant gives new insight on one’s fate after earthly existence. When identifying sleep with death Bryant gives death many characteristics of slumber. People generally wake from sleep, and Bryant expands this occurrence to death. Death could simply be a time of rest that retires the bodies’ of earthly beings , and allows the soul to wake....

PBIS and RTI in the Pre-Referral Process for Special Education Essay

PBIS and RTI in the Pre-Referral Process for Special Education - Essay Example These models have been credited for their ability to come up with the best solutions regarding the best programs and modes of instructions to subject the exceptional learners. In relation to the policies of the government on an inclusive curriculum, learners of special needs also need to be incorporated in the educational system. The models of PBIS and RTI have been indicated to ensure that learners are not discriminated on the basis of their affiliations and exceptionality. All learners, according to the ‘No child left Behind Act’ must go through an educational system that caters for their needs. The RTI model is an approach that focuses on learner differences in a learning situation. According to Burns, et al (2007), the RTI model is a model that is driven by the standards of learning, as well as, the responses portrayed by learners under instructions. This is an interpretation of the fact that, the RTI model is much more concerned with the progress of learners under s pecific instructions- responses to instructions. Additionally, the RTI model offers support and intervention to learners of varying needs in a classroom setting. RTI interventions are provided by specialized persons and depend on the needs of the particular learners. Burns, et al (2007) argue that, RTI model applies concepts of problem solving skills, so as to deal with learner needs. In the case of the learners with special needs, the instructors apply the concepts of problem-solving skills, in an endeavor to come up with the best learning strategies to fit such learners. They continue to argue that, RTI model allows for an integration of all systems that are of benefit to the learners, in terms of implementation of policies put in place to fit all learners. In relation to the pre-referral process for Special Education and the Response to Intervention Framework model (RTI), this model is useful in assessing the capacity of learners and their achievements in the learning situation. This interprets that the RTI model is an assessment model that assesses the success of learning methods and instructions in the learning environment, in context of the special learners. Burns, et al (2007) indicate that learners who have successfully managed to go through this process are in a high probability to fit in the learning setting. Additionally, special learners who are able to respond to the RTI model are more likely to display higher levels of success unlike learners who do not respond to the basics of the RTI model. PBIS ensures that all students access quality education by ensuring that all learners have access to the best learning practices and interventions. Mitchell (2007) argues that PBIS is a framework that is responsible for the best form of curriculum and selection of practices that are guided towards behavioral practices that ensure academic and behavioral outcomes are achieved by all learners in the classroom setting. Mitchell (2007) continues to argue that PB IS works towards coming up with basics for proper decision making and fashioning attributes that can be assessed through the basics as well as establish systems that work towards implementation of these systems. Analysts and researchers argue that it is vital to note that PBIS is not a form of curriculum, but a system that is set towards enhancing access and implementation of

Intermediate Accounting Research paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Intermediate Accounting - Research Paper Example The following illustration provides a simplified view of the business model followed by Groupon: Comparison of this business model of Groupon with Wal-Mart reveals some fundamental differences in the approach followed by the two businesses. First of all, as mentioned earlier, the virtual operating style of Groupon through internet is a primary factor which distinguishes the extent to which both companies can target their respective customers. Based on the differences identified in the business model for Groupon in comparison with the approach followed by Wal-Mart, it is possible to determine how these differences influence the risks identified by Groupon in its financial statements under management discussion and analysis and also the translation of these risks into financial reporting of the company. Before initiating a discussion as to how risks faced by Groupon would influence its business model, it is pertinent to understand that the success of the business model of the company l argely rests on the revenue generating ability of the company through acquiring new subscribers to purchase coupons offered by the company. Since the company has only one product to offer, i.e. coupons, therefore any unfavourable changes in the circumstances may eventually lead to the disruption of whole business model. First of all, the company has expressly stated in its Form S - 1 that, â€Å"We may not maintain the revenue growth that we have experienced since inception.† (Groupon Incorporation 11). Although, the company would take measures to ensure that such a risk may not materialize in future; however, if such a situation is faced by the company where revenue growth becomes difficult, the business model may be affected severely, as there is no contingency plan for the company due to lack of its diversity in operations. Realizing the significance of influence this risk may have on the business model of the company, it has been mentioned that, â€Å"If we fail to retai n our existing subscribers or acquire new subscribers, our revenue and business will be harmed.† (Groupon Incorporation 12). In addition to this, it is also important to note that apart from growth in subscribers to the business, the retention and growth of merchants for the business is also a risk factor. The company has expressly stated that if it fails to retain or grow the number of merchant it deals with, the revenues may shrink considerably in the future and therefore place impact on the whole business (Groupon Incorporation 13). Apart from this, it is also pertinent to understand that Groupon is not alone in its market; in fact there are other competitors who are improving their customer base and market standing. The company, in this regard, states that it operates in a highly competitive environment where competitors may pose a significant threat to the operations and growth opportunities for Groupon in the future (Groupon Incorporation 13). Issues regarding Revenue Re cognition for Groupon The table presented as follows include information pertaining to revenues, cost of sales, other operating expenses and net profit / loss of the company for the financial years 2009 and 2010. Under each year, both gross and net based revenue recognition by the company has been presented so as to make the comparison possible between

The business of water Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

The business of water - Essay Example According to Carroll (1983), corporate social responsibility (CSR) considers few activities of a business, which helps in increasing its profit and in doing so the company should also abide by the rules and regulations that are associated with law and ethics. In order to become socially responsible, a company has to obey laws and conditions that define company’s ethics. The author has organized the different corporate social responsibilities under four layers, which are provided in a pyramid and it is named as pyramid of responsibilities (Visser, 2005). According to the pyramid the four responsibilities are legal, economical, ethical and philanthropic. Carroll and Buchhotlz (2003) have explained that the pyramid should be considered as a whole and the layers are not separated as it does not make any sense. Economic responsibilities: The economic responsibilities indicate the methods that are employed for minimizing the cost and maximizing the sales or even devise strategic decisions, which will generate profit. The economic responsibilities are very important for the society and the company has to take these decisions very carefully (Carroll, 1979). The companies have to fulfil the demand of the shareholders for increased returns on their investment. The companies should employ those employees, who want fair paid jobs and they are also responsible for providing good quality products to the customers at a reasonable rate (Barth and Wolff, 2009). Hence, the primary responsibility of a business is to form a proper functioning unit and operate their business. Therefore, this is the base of the pyramid to which all the layers are connected (Dudovskiy, 2012). Legal responsibilities: The companies are predicted to abide by rules and regulations that are levied by the higher authorities. This norm reflects the strictness of the society towards operation of a business.

Concepts of Power and Resistance

Concepts of Power and Resistance Power and Resistance Where there is power, there is resistance, and yet, or rather consequently, this resistance is never in a position of exteriority in relation to power (Foucault, 1978: 95-96). In human sciences one of the main issues has always been the relationship of resistance to power. Where there is power, there is resistance; power affirms that there exists resistance and visa versa. But before starting to think about resistance, we have to take in mind that power is no longer considered a unitary, constant force that emanates from a particular social class or institution, rather it is seen as a more tenuous fabric of hegemonic forms (Constable, 2007: 11). Foucault (1978: 95-96) questions our assumption that power is always and essentially repressive, he wants to show how power also can be positively in a way that it can produce forms of pleasure, systems of knowledge, goods, and discourses and that it not only works negatively, by denying, restricting, prohibiting and repressing (Abu-Lughod, 1990: 42). The focus within studies of resistance recently shifted from large-scale collective revolts to more unlikely forms of resistance such as subversions and small or loca l resistances which do not especially aim to overthrow the system and which do not result from ideologies of emancipation (Abu-Lughod, 1990: 41). Hence both concepts have turned to be more complex than initially supposed, but this makes it even more interesting and more widely applicable to various situations where people try to construct their life within structures of power. Resistance The term resistance has been used by many scholars to describe a wide range of actions and behaviours in all aspects of human social life and in different settings. Hollander and Einwohner (2004: 534) illustrated how everything from revolutions to hairstyles has been described as resistance. Consequently following from the diversity of actions and behaviours which used to be named as resistance, they found in their analysis of the concept that there is little agreement on the definition (ibid: 234). Therefore it is important to outline the range of characteristics that can exist within the concept of resistance. First of all the scale whereat the resistance occurs has not always the same size; acts of resistance may be for example individual or collective, widespread or limited to local areas. Levels of coordination are also variable, in some situations there will be a higher extent in which the resisters intentionally act together, than in other. Thereby the targets where resistance is directed to also differs, they vary from individuals to groups and from organizations to institutions and social structures. As well the direction or goals are variable, while resistance mainly is understood to be aimed at achieving some sort of change, sometimes it is possible that the behaviour described as resistance aims to constrain change. Finally, while resistance is generally understood to be a political action, some writers suggest that resistance can also be identity-based (ibid: 536-537). Action and Opposition After having observed the dimensions of variation of resistance Hollander and Einwohner (ibid: 537) tried to describe the core elements of resistance to see how all these phenomena can be described with the same term. They identified action and opposition as two core elements within the discussions of resistance where authors seem to agree on. Resistance is not a quality of an actor or a state of being, but involves some active behaviour, whether verbal, cognitive, or psychical, and another component common to almost all uses is a sense of opposition. After having identified these core elements, the lines of disagreements became clearer, which made them realize that several debates of resistance above all differed in their position on two central issues: recognition and intent (ibid: 537). Recognition and Intention Acts of resistance are not always equally visible, their variation in visibility becomes clearer when we analyze the contrast between everyday resistance and more (and more obviously contentious) forms of political mobilization. Sometimes the intention of resistance is to be recognized, while other resistance is purposefully hidden, so recognition depends in part on the goals of the people who resist (ibid: 540). While Scott (1985) in his book about modes of everyday resistance among peasant workers argues that resistance need not to be recognized as such and that it may remain relatively invisible to the powerful, other scholars define resistance as necessarily provoking recognition and even reaction from others (Hollander Einwohner, 2004: 541). This level of recognition also varies depending on the two different groups of others who can identify an act as resistance, to wit targets and observers. The first group contains those to whom the act is directed and the second group can comprise the general public, members of the media and researchers (ibid: 542). After the question if oppositional action must be readily apparent to others, and if it must in fact be recognized as resistance, Hollander and Einwohner wonder if the actor must be aware that she or he is resisting some exercise of power and intending to do so for an action to qualify resistance (ibid: 542). Also on this matter scholars do not completely agree, roughly classified Hollander and Einwohner (2004) distinguish three different views. The first group of scholars believes that the actors conscious intent is a core element to be able to classify certain behaviour as resistance. The second group thinks that measuring intent is difficult or even impossible, as resistance not only arises in public, but also privately. People in these cases may be conscious of oppression and may intend to resist in some fashion, but this will not be visible and therefore impossible to measure. Following to the last group of scholars we must not focus on the intent, as resistance can occur cons ciously or unconsciously, concentrating on intent will neglect important forms of resistance (ibid: 542). Types of Resistance Hollander and Einwohner (2004) didnt want to define the verities and the falsities among all possible meanings and contends of the term resistance. Therefore they decided to analyse the various opinions to see if it would be possible to describe different forms of resistance without judging what is wrong and what is not. They already observed that all scholars seemed to agree that resistance implied oppositional action of some kind. Leaving discords about whether resistance must be intended by actors or whether it must be recognized by targets and/or observers. They therefore argue that it is useful to think of resistance in terms of distinct types, each defined by a different combination of actors intent, targets recognition, and observers recognition. Not all scholars will agree that all behaviours summarized in Table 1 should be called resistance, but it will help to emphasize again the core elements of resistance. The first type, overt resistance, comprises for example social movements and revolutions, and individual acts of refusal. It is visible behaviour, which is recognized by both targets as observers as resistance and is also intended to be recognized as such. Covert resistance refers to acts as gossip and subtle subversion in the workplace; they are intentional but go unnoticed by their targets. However they are recognized as resistance by culturally aware observers. These two forms of intentional forms of resistance are followed by some unintentional forms of resistance. The first one is recognized as resistance by both the observers as the targets but is not meant as such. And the second one contains so called self-defined targets who may be the only ones who recognize certain behaviour as resistance (target-defined resistance). A separate category contains externally-defined resistance, these are acts of resistance that are neither intended nor recognized as resistance by actors or their targets, but are labelled by third parties. The last two forms of resistance go to a certain degree unnoticed by others. If recognized by their target but unrecognized by third-party observers, they have called it missed resistance. If an actors intent ional act goes unnoticed by both targets and observers alike, it may be classified as attempted resistance (ibid: 544-547). Interaction Understanding the interaction between resisters, targets, and third parties plays a central role in the comprehension of resistance. Resistance is socially constructed; resisters, targets, and observers all participate in this construction (ibid: 548). Of course often there is no overall agreement on the question if certain behaviour can be seen as resistance or not. What one observer (or participant) sees as resistance, another may see as accommodation or even domination this does not only happen between the different participative groups but also within the parties there is variation. Resistance is a complex set of thoughts and behaviours (Ortner, 1995: 175). Dichotomizing resistance and dominators ignores the fact that there are multiple systems of hierarchy, and that individuals can be simultaneously powerful and powerless within different systems (Hollander Einwohner, 2004: 548). In her article about resistance and the concept of dà ©brouillardise (a way of social manipulation) used by Auvergnat farmers in rural France, Deborah Reed-Danahay (1993: 223) describes how Kondo (1990: 221) based on her research in Japan also emphasizes the intertwining of power and meaning, so that no one can be without power. Everyday Resistance After appointing the different types of resistance, it is necessary to take a first glimpse into possible forms of resistance among undocumented migrants to see on what kind of forms we have to continue focussing. First of all, it is obvious that undocumented migrants wont participate in any overt form of resistance (i.e. demonstrations) because it probably endangers their precarious situation. Therefore it is not very likely that the target of the resistance will recognize their acts as such. It will also vary if the acts are intended as resistance. Consequently, it is more likely that possible forms of resistance among undocumented migrants will be: covert resistance, attempted resistance and externally-defined resistance. Especially the first two forms of resistance are familiar to Scotts concept of everyday resistance. He describes: What everyday forms of resistance share with the more dramatic public confrontations is of course that they are intended to mitigate or deny claims made by superordinate classes or to advance claims vis-à  -vis those superordinate classes. Where institutionalized politics are formal, overt, concerned with systematic, de jure change, everyday resistance is informal, often covert, and concerned largely with immediate, de facto gains (Scott, 1990: 32-33). Scott points out different expressions of everyday resistance: foot dragging, dissimulation, false compliance, smuggling, etc. He refers to these practices as hidden transcripts (Scott, 1990) that are not easily visible in official transcripts and those on-stage behaviours controlled by elites (Reed-Danahay, 1993: 222). He described the existence of a too strongly focus on official and public transcripts of culture resulting in an underestimation of subordinated people and argued for a look into the unofficial transcripts to see the variety of forms of resistance taking place in this area of social life (ibid: 223). Though, Reed-Danahay (ibid: 223) points at a, ly to her, disturbing simplification [by Scott] by describing resistance as something which can be found in the hidden transcripts of the weak while only conformity becomes visible in the public transcripts of both the weak and the strong. This derives from the fact that he sees ideology as a coherent message, while there is c ontradiction and ambiguity in any discourse (ibid: 223) Everyday Practices Similar to Scotts everyday resistance is Michel de Certeaus (1984) concept of everyday practices. He divides strategies and tactics and explains why many everyday practices are not strategic but tactical in character. A strategy is the calculus of force-relationships which becomes possible when a subject of will and power can be isolated from an environment. Strategies possess their own place which forms a starting point from where relations with the outside can be generated. Tactics on the other hand, do not possess their own place, so the other cannot be singled out as a visible totality. Tactics constantly manipulate events to turn them into opportunities. De Certeau (ibid: xix) describes: A tactic insinuates itself into the others place, fragmentarily, without taking it over in its entirety, without being able to keep it at a distance. Everyday practices are a gathering of ways of operating characterized by victories of the weak over the strong and consisting of clever tricks, knowing how to get away with things, hunters cunning, manoeuvres, polymorphic situations, etc (De Certeau, 1984: xix). Tactics produce a certain movement within the system. They show to what extent it is possible to use intelligence to consort power within the daily struggle. Strategies, on the contrary, have a rather ambiguous relation with power. They use the instruments of the power for their own purposes. Hence, the structure of power where the strategies compete against at the same time sustains them (De Certeau, 1984: xviii). Scotts concept of everyday resistance, consisting of practices as foot dragging, dissimulation and smuggling tends to be more similar to strategies than to tactics. While De Certeaus concept of ways of operating (or everyday practices), like knowing how to get away with things, are more tactical in character. We could say that strategies aspire to undermine the structures of power and thus are more saturated with a notion of resistance, whereas tactics not only aim to resist, but also comprise an accommodating component. Cunning Despite their differences, De Certeau and Scott are concerned with the same kind of behaviour. Reed-Danahay (1993: 222) presupposes to use the concept of cunning to refer to this behaviour. ly to her, Detienne and Vernants (1978: 3-4 in Reed-Danahay: 1993: 222) description of the Greek quality of metis summarizes accurately the significance of cunning: [it] combine(s) flair, wisdom, forethought, subtlety of mind, deception, resourcefulness, vigilance, opportunism, various skills and experience acquired over the years. It is applied in situations which are transient, shifting, disconcerting, and ambiguous, situations which do not lead themselves to precise measurement, exact calculation, or rigorous logic (1978: 3-4; quoted in Scott 1990: 164 in ibid: 222). Also De Certeau (1984: xix) is conscious about the connection between metis and his ways of operating. Together with cunning, metis refers to the idea of Goffmans concept of making do in difficult situations and overcoming hardships (Reed-Danahay, 1993: 223). ly to Reed-Danahay, resistance suggests a mechanical metaphor of solid bodies coming into contact. Unlike resistance, cunning includes some fluidity in social life, leaving room for play or manipulation (ibid: 223). Dà ©brouillardise Reed-Danahay therefore speaks of a more complex notion of power and resistance, where forms of power lay both with agents of the dominant culture and with the resisting people themselves (ibid: 224). In her fieldwork in a mountain valley in the Auvergne region of central France she describes how people from a place fictionally named Lavialle have adopted a stance of resistance to agents who threaten their cultural autonomy. She shows how these farmers use the French concept of dà ©brouillardise as a manner to talk about social manipulation expressing accommodation, resistance, cunning, ways of making out and ways of making do (ibid: 221). Dà ©brouillardise connotes both resisting domination and other forms of social manipulation or even partial accommodation. It is a form of everyday resistance and it is a way of taking advantage of a situation that presents itself. Dà ©brouillardise has a dual nature, it consist of both making out and making do and is associated with both defensi ve postures and coping strategies in everyday life (ibid: 224). Conclusion Migrants and Resistance Abu-Lughod and romanticizing resistance With the concept of dà ©brouillardise Reed-Danahay tries to cover the gap between theory and practice. This is viable because the villagers she observes are actually using the concept in their ordinary language. According to her dà ©brouillardise refers to a more complex form of power than the theories of Scott (ibid: 224). Dà ©brouillardise Accomodation The ethnographic literature also contains examples of positive values associated with behaviours interpreted as everyday resistance when no native term or vocabulary for it is present. (223) Even while resisting power, individuals or groups may simultaneously support the structures of domination that necessitate resistance in the first place. Various authors have referred to this complexity as accommodation (e.g., Sotirin and Gottfried, 1999; Weitz, 2001), ambiguity (Trethewey, 1997), complicity (Healey, 1999; Ortner, 1995), conformity (St. Martin and Gavey, 1996), or assimilation (Faith, 1994).These authors stress that a single activity may constitute both resistance and accommodation to different aspects of power and authority (Hollander Einwohner, 2004: 549). Nevertheless it is easy to romanticize resistance as Abu-Lughod says, to view its forms as signs of ineffectiveness of systems of power and of the resilience and creativity of the human spirit in refusal to be dominated, to focus on successful forms of resistance and neglecting to consider accommodation, passivity or acquiescence adequately (In: Constable, 2007: ). It is only valuable if we can find a way between romanticizing resistance and portraying young migrants as passive oppressed victims.

A Review of Peter Brown’s Augustine of Hippo Essay -- Augustine Hippo

A Review of Peter Brown’s Augustine of Hippo   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Peter Brown’s Augustine of Hippo is a dense, scholarly work outlining the entire life of the Catholic bishop.   The University of California Press in Berkeley, California published the work in 1967.   My version was the 1973 second paperback printing, found in the University library.   Its smallish, scholarly, serifed, typewritten font allows for a instant respect for the subject matter:   the words are at first imposing, but then revealing as their serious tone complements the complexity of the text.   The pages are studded with footnotes, filling out this work with evidence of Brown’s exhaustive research.   There is a three-page preface before the work, and, after the work, a seventeen-page bibliography, and ten-page index.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Brown’s book is organized, like any scholarly biography, chronologically according to Augustine’s life.   It is separated into five parts, each corresponding to significant portions of Augustine’s life:   his pagan life, his conversion, his actions against the Donatists, his actions against Pelagians, and his final legacy and death.   Each part opens with a chronological table of events both directly involving Augustine and the world he lived in.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The first part begins with â€Å"Africa,† a chapter detailing the section of northern Africa:   its Greco-Roman literary and political history, painting a picture of the world Augustine came from.   The next chapter, titled â€Å"Monica,† describes Augustine’s parents, particularly his mother, and their religious beliefs and socioeconomic status.   â€Å"Education,† the third chapter, is about the future bishop’s early education, focusing on his introduction to his favorite school subject, Latin literature.   T... ...uum:   Writing the ‘City of God,’† rather than just â€Å"City of God.†Ã‚   (This chapter is actually misprinted in the table of contents as â€Å"Opus Magnum† rather than â€Å"Magnum Opus,† a small error, but one easy enough to catch in proofreading, for this second paperback edition.   Also, Brown has a penchant for Latin or French phrases, inserted randomly to convey special meaning; this could be forgivable if they were translated or explained, even in the spacious footnotes:   they are not, leaving the layman reader frequently confused and agitated.   But, this book is not intended for the layman; it is a scholarly work, and most readers would be in his field of antiquity, and most probably know Latin, and be more acquainted with familiar French phrases.   Augustine of Hippo is not perfect, but it is an extremely good biography, being both exceedingly thorough and fully captivating.

Inventions That Affected the World Essay

Our world has experienced many changes within the last century. New inventions are made every month, and one of the most influential changes is the invention of the cellphone. The cellphone has completely changed the way we communicate, as well as the speed, convenience, and quality of our communication. Technology has made such an impact on society that most people won’t leave home without their cellphones. Also computers became human’s best friend. This is why one of the most life changing pieces of technology for many people has been the smartphone, an all-in-one, portable device that combines the functions of a cell phone with the functions of a computer. But how was life before this technology even existed? Back in the past, communicating with people was hard, especially with long distance. Letters were the only option to let someone know about something. But after the phone was invented, contacting people got much easier than before, even though, not everyone owned a phone. Computers were the other device that was invented, it was and still used in almost every concern. Then Internet invention had to step in and make life much easier. With Internet, people made electronic mails, which was another way to communicate with others. But to own all these things was very pricey back then, and to have them with you anywhere you go was not possible. So to do a specific thing, you had to use a specific device. To reach someone immediately, you had to use the phone that was wired-up and the recipient had to be close to his wired-up phone as well. To go to a specific location, you had to ask people that are familiar with the area you are going to. To send an email, you had to do it through the Internet from a computer. To remind yourself of a meeting something, you had to keep sticking little notes on your fridge door. To take a picture, you obviously needed a camera, and to send it to somebody, you had to use the mail and that would take couple days for the receiver to see it. To calculate an amount, you needed a calculator or you had to be good at math. To check next day’s weather you had wait till after the news on TV. To listen to your favorite music you had to buy a cassette or a CD and then go play it in your home stereo†¦ But after the smartphone was invented couple years ago, the race of human beings found everything to be easy. We can literally do anything with it, and with all the applications available we can even do more than we ever thought in just couple seconds. From calling someone to buying an airline ticket, it’s all available with a portable device that stays in your pocket. However, in my opinion the smartphone is the one of the best inventions ever made. I would highly recommend this gadget to anyone in this planet, because with it, we are never lost, never bored or wasting time, and always with an answer.

Food Culture Essay Example

Food Culture Essay Example Food Culture Essay Food Culture Essay Food Culture Name: Course: Date: : Part 1 1. Are there activity studies this semester that could be described as carnivalesque? Carnivalesque refers to the satirical method involving mocking or humoring traditional social hierarchy or authority. For instance, the studies regarding the rites of passage are considered carnivalesque. 2. Why does drink fall under the category of food ways? Drink falls under food ways because they define the cultural practices of a certain group because every cultural group is defined by what they eat. 3. What is the difference between esoteric and exoteric? Directly, esoteric is how we understand ourselves while exoteric refers to how we comprehend others. Reflexively, esoteric is how we understand other people’s understanding of us while exoteric refers to how others realize our understanding of them. 4. Give an example of a food or cuisine that has made a mainstream shift from inedible to edible? An example of a cuisine that shifted from inedible to edible is the Mexican Cuisine. At one point, it was regarded as totally inedible and unfit for consumption. 5. What does it mean when we say we consider our bodies to be inviolate? Considering our bodies to be inviolate means that we are undecided about the things that enter and leave our body. 6. What does it mean to make tomatoes? Making tomatoes refers to the process of integrating authentic ingredients into various cuisines, which are edible and palatable. 7. How is food associated with ideas of nationalism? 8. Food is associated with nationalism because it represents the culture of a particular group. For instance, traditional foods such as chilies and tortillas are reminiscent of the Mexican culture and hence describe the culture and its region. 9. Can pre-packaged or manufactured foods be considered traditional? Why or why not? Pre-packaged or manufactured foods cannot be considered traditional. This is because they are processed and thus unnatural and not part of the native population. 10. What is the structure of a rite of passage? A rite of passage is comprised of a tri-partite structure. The three components of the structure are separation, liminal period and reassimilation. What is the difference between something being unpalatable and something being inedible? Something that is unpalatable refers to something that is unpleasant in taste regarding food or drink. On the other hand, something that is inedible refers to something that is not fit for human consumption disregarding the notion of taste. Part 2 3. Why should we study food and culture? What does the folklorist bring to its study? Food is a basic and necessary requirement in our society. It is necessary because it contributes to human beings’ existence. In relation to culture, food is defined by a variety of normal cultural structures. These cultural structures are what we eat, the way we eat, with whom do we eat and when we eat. Concerning culture, lack of resources such as transportation facilities limited the mobility of food in historical context hence associating food with place. Furthermore, food is associated with place depending on its availability through trade. For instance, barter trades were common in past societies and they usually involved the exchange of various goods, which mostly comprised foodstuffs. In the past, there were limited methods of storing food. Because of this, food, which is a perishable good, spoiled. Thus, food is associated with time and season. For instance, specific foods such as maize and wheat go through different times of harvests. Moreover, environmental change co mprising the change in seasons influences the perishability and storage of food. Moreover, food is related to tradition because of the passing down of cooking as a skill from elders to novices. This can be identified by eating particular foods at a particular time because other related people did so. For instance, the Thanksgiving Dinner is a tradition that was passed down from the Pilgrims to the modern American society. Food is also associated with belief because the rules governing dietary are often dictated through prescriptions such as religious interdictions. Such interdictions refer to foods that are forbidden. For instance, the Islam religion forbids the consumption of pork. Moreover, belief also extends to non-religious proscriptions. This can be identified by the non-consumption of beef and beef related products by vegetarians. Food is essential to survival therefore, it is associated with corporeality. Consequently, food is associated with hospitality because it is costly . Food is also associated with nutrition because people require certain varieties of food to be healthy. For instance, balanced diets are emphasized in relation to consumption in order to encourage healthy lifestyles and restrict consumption of unnecessary or dangerous food. The folklorist attempts to identify the artistic communication involved among individuals and groups in an informal setting. In relation to food, the folklorist tries to identify the various aesthetic components comprising food in relation to diverse groups based on the food consumed. For instance, the folklorist attempts to identify folklore in a typical sandwich. By understanding the creation and consumption of the snack, the folklorist deduces that sandwiches are personal and aesthetic expectations. Sandwiches are also perceived to be informal because the instructions for their construction are transmitted through informal channels. Snadwiches are also deemed to be democratic and appear in popular cultures. Sandwiches are also authentic despite being in a popular culture. Thus, folklorists attach anthropological and deep meaning respective of culture to various objects such as food in the society.

laceds@hotmail.com essays

laceds@hotmail.com essays After observing a film that attempted to portray the legacy of Christopher Columbus, I have reached my own personal conclusions regarding his achievements, or, more appropriately, misadventures. Although it is true Columbus initiated an exchange of education in matters of foods, cultures, languages and wars, the means by which he was able to obtain wealth while westernizing the new world can hardily be considered appropriate or praiseworthy. Driven by his lust for new resources, land, power and wealth, Columbus was both ruthlessly ambitious and overly determined. So much so, that upon his arrival at San Salvador, he refused to believe the aboriginals when they revealed he arrived on an island. In his ignorance he continued to believe he was in Asia, addressing them as Indians. Being that Columbus was not of noble blood, he had to convince Ferdinand and Isabella his trip would profit them, creating empty promises to discover back door route to the riches of Asia Cathay. With these claims he gained support from the monarchs, while he also received religious backing from the Catholic Church by using religion as a guise to pursue his greedy desires. It is extremely ironic that Columbus manages to gain sponsorship from the two super-powers of his era, Church and state. His tactics werent all that conventional; one only needs to look to the past to see where he gained his insight. Time and time again leaders achieved their wealth by stripping it from the poor of the land by treachery and deceit (indulgences, for example) and by cruelly raising taxes on the serfs (poor of the land) and extracting more money through the cruelties of the feudal system. Columbus merely mimicked past victories in hopes to of achieving his pursuit of wealth and power. Columbus' greed was obviously a motivating factor as he was promised not only profit, but also the title of, 'Admiral.' ...

Cloud Computing and Security Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Cloud Computing and Security - Term Paper Example On the other hand, when more critical information of corporations and individuals is stored on corporate cloud framework, fears are starting to elevate regarding just how protected an arrangement it could be considered. In addition, storing a large amount of data creates a circumstance similar to keeping massive funds, which means drawing additional normal attacks from increasingly experienced and extremely provoked invaders in computing environment. Accordingly, communication security is a particular concern which users contemplate when thinking about using cloud computing structure (Binning), (Hanna) and (Marston, Li and Bandyopadhyay). This paper will discuss the security issues in cloud computing enveironment. Security Risk and Cloud Computing While building safe and protected IT systems, organizations typically have to face a lot of customary security and privacy management issues and challenges on the other hand in case of cloud computing there is an additional extent of menace dues to the fact that in cloud computing environment necessary services are frequently subcontracted to a 3rd party security management. In this scenario, the â€Å"external existence† feature of subcontracting or outsourcing enables the tough hold up to data integrity, privacy, maintain data and service accessibility, and exhibits conformity. In addition, cloud computing transfers a great deal of the operational and security management control over data and business functions from customer business to their cloud service suppliers. In this scenario, a great deal of similar businesses hand over some part of their information technology working aspects and processes to outsourcing businesses. However, the fundamental jobs like that implementing patch technologies and installation and configuration of system firewalls are included in the responsibilities of the cloud service supplier, not the end-user of cloud services. In addition, users should build strong interactions with their contributors and stakeholders as well as recognize threats regarding how these cloud service suppliers apply, organize and administer security on their own. In this scenario, the idea â€Å"trust† describes the association between cloud service suppliers and users and it is important for the reason that the client users are accountable for conformity and safety of their important business and financial data, yet if that particular burden has transferred to the cloud. Moreover, a number of businesses select mixed or private paradigms over open clouds due to the threats linked with the process of services subcontracting (IBM), (Shen and Tong) and (Sumter).

Descriptive statistics Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Descriptive statistics - Assignment Example The study will employ a cross-sectional study where the data will be collected using a well-structured questionnaire administered randomly to both the participating and non-participating ELL students in a bid to compare the academic achievements among both groups. An in-depth interview will be conducted with the school counsellors in a bid to get a deeper understanding of the various interventions techniques implemented. According to Clark and Creswell (2010) one cannot analyze their data with statistics unless the data have been recorded in a numeric form. The first step therefore will be to assign scores to the different quantitative responses, followed by data entry done using the relevant statistical software or Excel. The research will examine both the single item scores and the summed scores (Clark & Creswell, 2010) as part of its detailed analysis to address the research question, the descriptive statistics obtained will be summarized in tables. Various outputs from the statistical analysis tools will be included as part of the findings. As per Clark and Creswell (2010) the models will be accompanied by the ANOVA and T-test tables in order to provide detailed statistics relevant in testing the differences between the observed grouped in regards to the academic performance. The descriptive statistics will be employed due to their convenience in providing informative comparison using the means of each attribute as indicator, the research findings will either be expressed as a percentage or as a mean. The descriptive table will contain the relevant standard deviation for the purposes of showing the extent of variability (Clark & Creswell, 2010). An example of a descriptive table is as shown in the table below: Where it summarizes the mean academic score of ELL students participating in the Interventions and those that don’t. ANOVA table is key for