Essay on The History of Video Game Music - 3068 Words

The History of Video Game Music In America, video game music is seen as one of the lowest forms of entertainment and its composers are obscure and unknown to most of those who play the games, while in Japan, it is a major component of their popular culture, and composers such as Koji Kondo are treated like famed celebrities. Game music is still not widely considered an art form, and yet the compositions have become as complex and sophisticated as arrangements for film and television. In 1958, engineer William Higginbotham at the National Laboratory made the very first video game called Tennis for Two. In 1963, MIT student Steve Russell programmed the game Spacewar. In 1972, Magnavox released the very first home†¦show more content†¦In 1981, ATARI released their â€Å"Pokey chip,† which was a dedicated audio processor. Included in the 5200 home console2, the Pokey chip used four separate channels which controlled the pitch, volume, and distortion values of each, allowing a four-piece virtual band to perform for the first time. In 1983 the advent of MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) allowed for composers to use up to 128 different timbres with 16 separate tracks, all without taking up precious memory space. Composer Bobby Prince of the Id software company employed midi files in the popular Commander Keen series. (Episodes four through six) The only problem with MIDI is that the quality of the music varies with different sound cards. 2 In 1985, Nintendo released their first console, the Nintendo Entertainment System. (NES). Although manufacturing was discontinued in 1995, Nintendo experienced enormous popularity; 50 million consoles and 350 million games were sold. 2 Nintendo was talented at offering difficult challenges for one’s hand-eye coordination, providing quality soundtracks, fast game play, and a fun and exciting plotline that makes you want to play the game again and again. 2 An example of such music is Battletoads. It’s all about some toads that like to get into fights, and there are two levels in the game in which they jump ontoShow MoreRelatedMusic in Video Games1382 Words   |  6 PagesMusic In Video Games Throughout the history of the video game industry, there has been many changes concerning music in video games. Music in video games progressed greatly within the life of the industry from 1972 to the present. These progressions can be seen as improvements in quality which includes an increase in the number of output channels, an increase in song length, a great improvement in the quality of timbres, and also a general shift from non- programmatic music to programmatic musicRead More Music In Video Games Essay1361 Words   |  6 Pages Music In Video Games nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;Throughout the history of the video game industry, there has been many changes concerning music in video games. Music in video games progressed greatly within the life of the industry from 1972 to the present. These progressions can be seen as improvements in quality which includes an increase in the number of output channels, an increase in song length, a great improvement in the quality of timbres, and also a general shift from non- programmaticRead MoreThe Video Gaming Culture in Japan1594 Words   |  7 Pagesthe largest gaming populations is located in Japan. (Niizumi) Japan has been, and continues to be one of the largest developers and creators of both of video gaming consoles and video games around the world. (Niizumi) Japanese video games are beneficial to society and are an excellent source of employment to many in Japan. To understand how video gaming relates to Japanese culture we need to understand more about the country of Japan. We will explore some important facts about Japan’s cultural societyRead MoreThe use of computer technology in entertainment1069 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿The use of Computer technology in Entertainment. â€Å"The improvements in computer technology over the past decade have made video and audio streaming commonplace, making the computer a sophisticated and powerful entertainment medium† (Haupert, 2012, p.39). The use of computer technology is not limited to business, health, education and manufacturing industries but also widely used in entertainment and arts world. There are so many applications as there are entertainers and artists. People look forwardRead MoreUsing Video Games in the Classroom1407 Words   |  6 PagesVideo Games could be used in the classroom for a wide variety of different subjects, ranging from math, to science, to english and even in foreign language classes as many games that are made in different countries are in that countrys own language. Of Course games are almost always translated into different languages so that people worldwide could play them but a foreign language teacher wouldn’t find it too difficult to get ahold of a copy of a game in a foreign language. Music classes such asRead MoreVideo Games And Its Effect On Society1171 Words   |  5 Pagesas, entertainment, music, video games, and sports. Teaching pop culture can benefit any classroom. Pop culture began after the Industrial Revolution, when the people had more free time and they wanted more entertainment.(Dr. Anthony Curtis, â€Å"Music and Popular Culture in America†) That is when media began to evolve. Music started becoming popular and technology was being born. Video games are a big part of a youth s’ life. In a NPD study in 2011, of how many kids play video games, ninety one percentRead MoreVideo Games and Obesity1601 Words   |  7 PagesOctober 22, 2007 Video Games and Obesity In just two decades, the prevalence of obesity doubled for U.S. children ages 6 to 11, and tripled for American teenagers (Childhood Obesity). Obesity is an excessive accumulation of fat causing a person to become overweight. It is a serious and growing health problem, especially for kids. One major factor to the problem of children becoming obese is, video games. Video games have advanced dramatically over the years. From hitting a ball backRead MoreVideo Games and Obesity1593 Words   |  7 PagesOctober 22, 2007 Video Games and Obesity In just two decades, the prevalence of obesity doubled for U.S. children ages 6 to 11, and tripled for American teenagers (Childhood Obesity). Obesity is an excessive accumulation of fat causing a person to become overweight. It is a serious and growing health problem, especially for kids. One major factor to the problem of children becoming obese is, video games. Video games have advanced dramatically over the years. From hitting a ball back andRead MoreVideo Games : The Decade Of Decadence1116 Words   |  5 Pagesmaking everything from computers to music and video games more available for personal use. Video games were around long before the 1980s. Programmers had been making video games for arcades as far back as the early 1960s (Kent 65). The late 1970s, however, brought video games into the home with gaming consoles. Nonetheless, these consoles remained quiet until a small game by the name of Space Invaders came along. The popularity of this game catapulted the game console into the spotlight and intoRead MoreThe Effects Of Media On Our Lives1543 Words   |  7 PagesHas media affected our behavior negatively? This issue – the negative influence of media on our life, has been debated since the media evolved. Media, is not only news as many would think, but also things like movies, TV shows, music, and surprisingly, even the video games are now a major part of media. All these media divarication play no negative roles on our lives for some people. However, I believe for each one of media’s divarication there is a specific violent reaction in our real lives. First

The Hurried Child - 1213 Words

Most children in present society are rushed through the course of life, missing and blurring the lines of major milestones. They have been exposed to and experiencing too much of the wrong things. Parents and the general society are pushing this generation to becoming mini-adults that seem mature, but is not yet developed enough to actually be mature. As a result, the children become frustrated and stressed, leading to the development of disabilities and disorders. Parents and society needs to not only become aware of, but to also take charge of the mental condition of the next generation. The term â€Å"hurried child syndrome† is defined by the Urban Dictionary as â€Å"a condition in which parents overschedule their childrens lives, push them†¦show more content†¦This misconception is too vague and broad. We are all contributing to shape the next generation, but a child’s parents hold the most responsibility. Expectations of human behavior and knowledge have been rising generation after generation. Parents push their children because want their children to thrive and succeed, not being aware of the natural mental development. Not only are the children competing with their peers, the parents are also always competing. They compete with one another as to who has the better child. The peer pressure from both the children and the parents causes the children to be hurried. As one child is hurried to over achieve another, the others must â€Å"step up their game up† just to catch up. This pushing effect never ceases to stop or reverses, since the parents are too afraid to let their child fall behind, and too afraid to lose face in the community for not having a â€Å"mature† child. Although Elkind dedicates an entire section on the school dynamic of hurrying children, the main reason school is a dynamic is only in the parents’ request. The school – public or private – is a business. The principals and teachers are those who are working for the business, and the parents are the customers. Parents put their students in certain schools, paying a certain amount of money while expecting a certain result. The parents repeatedly request for improvement inShow MoreRelatedChildhood Is The Most Vital Time938 Words   |  4 Pageschild’s beginning years is the most vital time. This is where the child learns the environment, emotions, developmental skills, family awareness, trustworthy-ness, as well as several others. Class position not only changes what the parent can by the child, but it also plays a large part in the child’s personality. As a person can expect, parents with higher financial standings give their children advantages t hat go beyond money. The child gradually will see where they and their family lie in societyRead MoreGovernment Should Have A Say In Our Diets Essay940 Words   |  4 Pagescontrol everything and everyone. What I mean here is that the government control should be balanced with the freedom of choice. Unfortunately, plentiful foods do not lead to improved health conditions. We cannot always make a relevant choice. Our hurried lifestyles make us extremely fast, and eating is not an exception. We eat fast, but fast does not always mean useful. I believe, and in this essay I argue that the government must have a say in our diets. Because there are so many obese people, becauseRead MoreWhy Homeschooling Is Better?1692 Words   |  7 Pageswork, full responsibility for child s education it is totally up to the parents to make it work and also because children need to juggle different age groups. â€Å"Then that home schooling leads you down a one way path, chosen by the parents† (The Guardian Archive). Home schooling is better because you can have education freedom, you can choose what you want to study and how you want to do it.†Customize or individualize the curriculum and learning environment for your child† (Ray, Brian D) its sayingRead MoreShort Story Essay950 Words   |  4 Pagesbus grew, and number outside became less, the teacher became aware that there were maybe some children missing. As the last child entered the bus he knew for sure that three children were absent. He alerted the driver, who immediately hurried outside, locking the bus doors, ordering the children to stay where they were. The two adults hurried back along the path that they had taken, calling out the names of the three children. There was no response. They eventuallyRead MoreKids in the Mall: Growing Up Controlled768 Words   |  4 Pageslife is to make money and buy products. This leads them to become brand conscious and focus more on the newest clothes and latest trends. To prove his argument, the author refers to David Elkind’s (a psychologist) study â€Å"The hurried child†. According to Elkind this â€Å"hurried child† is under a constant pressure to buy branded products, and is forced to act like an adult and hold a level of sophistication that is beyond its years. â€Å"Adolescents about to make a big leap into growing up crave more structureRead MoreThe Effects Of Technology On Our Children1364 Words   |  6 Pageswe are inevitably letting this way of life impact on our children. Early childhood achievement is being increasingly pushed as measure of success and we have in depth developmental stages in which give us a systematic guide on what is expected of a child at each age and if they have not reached these milestones we are quick to assess why this has not happened and how to fix it and catch them up as quick as possible in order to have them achieve a certain level of attainment that just may be unrealisticRead MoreImproving Healthy Development And Maintaining Strong Parent Child Bonds1546 Words   |  7 Pagesimportant to optimal child development that it has been recognized by the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights† (Ginsburg, 2007, p 182). There is no opposing argument to the statement that play is essential to children and youth in all domains of development. Although certain types of play may be more meaningful in terms of development, any kind of play is better than no play at all. â€Å"The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bonds† examinesRead MoreTerror of The Thing. Essay605 Words   |  3 Pageswas. No one was there. Zebadiah apprehensively opened the front door in which he saw no sign of anyone ever being there. No mud on the old rickety porch and no footprints in the soft saturated soil. Zebadiah swiftly closed the door, locked it and hurried to resume his seat by the fire. As soon as he sat down the sound of feet hurrying down the stairs echoed through the house. He quickly grabbed an old, well used fire iron. He slowly made his way to the steps moving inch by inch as to not make a soundRead MoreBreastfeeding Critical Incident Essay1276 Words   |  6 PagesEllen’s breast and pushed Harry onto her breast. This ‘hands-on’ approach was successful in attaching Harry and he fed for thirty minutes. Approximately three hours later Ellen requested I watch her attach Harry. I watched as she anxiously hurried to attach him and Harry soon became frustrated and began to cry. I could not see fault in her technique and had reached the limits of my breastfeeding understanding so enlisted the help of a second midwife. She attempted a hands-on approach, Read MoreThe Kite Maker1646 Words   |  7 Pagesthe kite maker. When the kite old days through the character of old Mahmood, the kite maker. In those days kite maker was young, he was honoured for his art of kite making. In those days kite playing was the hobby of the Nawabs and people were not hurried and worried. But when Mahmood became old, the people lost their interest in kite flying. They were busy in getting and spending. They did not care for the old kite maker. In the end of the story a feeling of pathos is created

The Ethics of Steroids in Professional Sports Free Essays

Currently in professional sports, the use of steroids is one of the most highly debated and controversial topics. It seems that every day there is an athlete being suspended, fined, and even prosecuted for using these performance-enhancing drugs. In many cases, sports fans will condemn these athletes for their involvement in steroids. We will write a custom essay sample on The Ethics of Steroids in Professional Sports or any similar topic only for you Order Now As I looked deeper into the subject I thought to myself, â€Å"what is so wrong with athletes trying to take their game to the next level?† Because ultimately, that’s what the real issue is here; its just professionals doing what they can to get ahead in their job and it seems to be perfectly ethical. One of the main arguments in the ethics of steroids in professional sports is that it is unhealthy to the body, which is completely true. The prolonged used of anabolic steroids can cause liver damage and contribute to hormone imbalances among other things; however, this does not make it unethical. Let’s not forget that these athletes are playing sports that in many cases are already a danger to their bodies. When was the last time you heard of an athletes going to the hospital for the use of steroids? Yet everyday there is a case of a professional athlete tearing a muscle or incurring serious head injuries. Studies actually show that deaths from playing college and professional football are 50-100 times higher than the use of steroids. Just because somebody does something that may be harmful to their body, it doesn’t mean their wrong in doing so. For example, if a guy is hungry and decides to eat out at a fast food restaurant, is he pursuing something unethical? We all know the unhealthy effects fast food has on the body, but that doesn’t make it wrong. Adults should be able to make their own decisions when it comes to their personal well-being and if they decide to do something that may be harmful, then so be it. Protestors against steroids also claim that athletes using performance-enhancing drugs are a bad influence on our youth. Kids idolize athletes and if they see their favorite superstar using steroids, then they will want to also. I do see some truth in that and agree 100 percent that there is no place for steroids in child’s body. On the other hand I also contend that professional athletes have no obligation to live their lives conforming to a â€Å"role model† image. In Major League Baseball, the players are allowed to use chewing tobacco during games and it is clearly seen by the youth watching on TV. Also, In the National Hockey League, there is an immense amount of violence and fighting plays a big part in the sport. These examples are also bad influences on children, yet they are apart of the game and don’t seem to be getting banned anytime soon. As for the argument that steroids taint the game that so many love, I don’t see truth in this at all. There are constantly new techniques and technology being added in sports all for one purpose, to make the game better. Athletes dating back to the ancient times have been doing whatever they can to gain a competitive edge. The Greeks used to eat live bees for potency before matches and Mayans would take hallucinogens to numb the pain taken from their sport. So why is it unethical for an athlete to use steroids for this same purpose? Some say that athletes in the past didn’t have the luxury of steroids, so it eliminates the records and legacy of the past. But regardless, due to the revolutionary increases of technology, such as a newly designed baseball bat or a more aerodynamic track uniform, players are going to be better and these records are going to be broken. How to cite The Ethics of Steroids in Professional Sports, Papers

The great gatsby 3 Essay Example For Students

The great gatsby 3 Essay Death of a Salesman and the American DreamMost people in America acknowledge that there are certain standards they are expected to live up to. For many, this is a wonderful and dignified belief. Although, in some cases people can be so preoccupied with the ideal that it becomes a burden. They are thus unable to accomplish their dream. There are two specific essays that portray this idea, one is by Howard Fuller entitled A salesman is Everybody and another by Harold Clurman entitled The Success Dream on the American Stage. Both essays state opinions about the American Dream and its relation to Death of a Salesman in which the main character, Willy Loman, lives by his own ideal, which in the end causes his downfall. Willys life revolves around chasing his ideal of the American dream rather than actually living it. This pursuit contributes to his deficiency in finding success in his life, and why he fails to live out his American dream. Willy Loman has lived his life in a quest for the American dream. Harold Clurman states that, Death of a Salesman is a challenge to the American dream. The American dream has become distorted to the dream of business success. Willy Loman is looking for an easy way to become rich and successful. Conventionally the American dream meant freedom and prosperity for everyone and Willy is a firm believer of this. But working hard could not get him everything that he wanted or thought he deserved. He seems to measure himself as well as others by the material things they own. Unable to live his American dream in this consumer-based culture, he has a longing for things that he can not afford nor does he really need. He thinks he should buy new stockings for his wife and a new refrigerator although she is happy with what they have. In his striving to get a hold on his vision of the American dream, Willy honors his brother Ben. Ben stumbled across his wealth, but Willy believes that Ben worked hard for it, and wants his sons to do the same: work hard and be like Uncle Ben. Willy asks Ben Whats the answer? How did you do it? To Willy, Ben symbolizes the American dream to the fullest! He has gained a lot of money and all he did was get lucky. Although Willy has lost his job he continues to lie to himself and his family hoping everything will turn out all right in the end. He is ultimately chastising himself and his son Biff, letting the dream take control and losing sight of the real goal, freedom and happiness. The historical dream is the promise of a land of freedom with opportunity and equality for all. Willys enthusiasm, which is manifested in the slogans he sets such great store by, is not governed by intelligence. If he were able to determine the difference between reality and illusion his obsessions would not have taken over his life. Willy was constantly dishonest to himself as well as his family, lying about who he and Biff really were.As his job as a salesman was based upon lying and deception, how could he pursue and honest life? He wanted to live this dream so badly that he paid no attention to his real talent, carpentry, and very little attention to his family. His goals were all mixed up from the beginning and since he never actually lived his dream, it made his life worse. If the true essence of the American dream is simply freedom and opportunity for all, then why do many Americans want to get rich quick?If you ask many Americans, the majority would say their ideal is to make lots of money and certainly not by working hard for it. Perhaps Willy Loman had the right dreams, but over time set the wrong goals for himself.Up until the end, he believed lifes problems are all solved by making oneself well liked (in the salesman sense) and by a little cash. .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 , .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 .postImageUrl , .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 , .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1:hover , .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1:visited , .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1:active { border:0!important; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1:active , .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1 .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uf986a57cb9a6d4c4565256eff6fb51e1:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Case Analysis Insubordination Essay Cash is what society revolves around, and what eventually caused Willys breakdown and suicide. Willys quest for the American dream

The Fall Of The House Of Usher Persuasive Essay Example For Students

The Fall Of The House Of Usher Persuasive Essay Edgar Allen Poe is one of the greatest poets. Hes scary, weird, and wrote some insane tales. Virtually all of Edgar Allen Poes stories concerned themes of human perversity and involve the technique of ratiocination. Most critics believe that The Fall of the House of Usher reflects both characteristics. I agree, in this short story a man comes to visit his friend Roderick. Roderick and his sister are very ill. Their house is falling apart and this man has come to try to fix it, but that is not what happens. Human perversity is basically explained as human will and human corruption. Edgar uses this clearly all through his tale, One that sticks out in my mind is when Roderick Usher buries his sister,, Madeline, in the walls of the house. You can tell she struggled to get out as there was blood on her robe and she was not dead at the time he buried her. I consider this to be human will.Poe also uses corruption in this tale. The idea that Madeline came back to life to take revenge on her brother is corrupted. Then when the Usher House falls down on both Ushers giving Roderick just enough time to get out. This is not so much corruption, but if you look at it in a different way. it could also be human will. Another form of corruption in this story is that all of the Ushers were descendants of each other, which means they were inbreeds. The second characteristic that Edgar uses is Ratiocination, which means explanation of justification. In the Fall of the House of Usher, Poe uses explanation a t the beginning. He tells about the Ushers lives, their illnesses and their family. He explains also about the Fissure in the wall of the Usher mansion. How if just a little more it would collapse and how it had been neglected for so long. In conclusion I feel Edgar uses both characteristics, human perversity and ratiocination in the short story, The Fall of the House of Usher. We will write a custom essay on The Fall Of The House Of Usher Persuasive specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now

Survival of the Fittest vs. Natural Selection

Survival of the Fittest vs. Natural Selection When Charles Darwin was coming up with the Theory of Evolution, he had to find a mechanism that drove evolution. Many other scientists, such as Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, had already described the change in species over time, but they didnt offer explanations as to how it occurred. Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace independently came up with the idea of natural selection to fill that void. Natural Selection vs. Survival of the Fittest Natural selection is the idea that species that acquire adaptations favorable for their environment will pass those adaptations to their offspring. Eventually, only individuals with those favorable adaptations will survive, which is how the species changes over time or evolves through speciation. In the 1800s, after Darwin first published his book On the Origin of Species, British economist Herbert Spencer used the term survival of the fittest in relation to Darwins idea of natural selection as he compared Darwins theory to an economic principle in one of his books. This interpretation of natural selection caught on, and Darwin used the phrase in a later edition of On the Origin of Species. Darwin used the term as it was meant regarding natural selection. Nowadays, however, the term is often misunderstood when used in place of natural selection. Public Misconception of Fittest Members of the public might be able to describe natural selection as survival of the fittest. Pressed for further explanation of the term, however, most answer incorrectly. Someone not familiar with what natural selection really is might take fittest to mean the best physical specimen of the species and that only those in the best shape and best health will survive in nature. That isnt always the case. Individuals that survive arent always the strongest, fastest, or smartest. By that definition, then, survival of the fittest might not be the best way to describe natural selection as it applies to evolution. Darwin didnt mean it in those terms when he used it in his republished book. He intended fittest to mean the members of the species best suited for the immediate environment, the basis of the idea of natural selection. Favorable and Unfavorable Traits   Since an individual needs the most favorable traits to survive in the environment, it follows that individuals with favorable adaptations will live long enough to pass their genes to their offspring. Those lacking the favorable traits- the unfit- most likely wont live long enough to pass down their unfavorable traits, and eventually, those traits will be bred out of the population. The unfavorable traits might take many generations to decline in numbers and longer to disappear from the gene pool. This is evident in humans with the genes of fatal diseases; their genes are still in the gene pool even though conditions are unfavorable for their survival. Remedying the Misunderstanding Now that this idea is stuck in our lexicon, there isnt much that can be done to help others understand the actual meaning of the phrase beyond explaining the intended definition of the word fittest and the context in which it was said. An alternative could be to avoid using the phrase altogether when discussing the Theory of Evolution or natural selection. Its acceptable for a person to use the term survival of the fittest if he or she understands the scientific definition. However, casual use of the phrase by someone without knowledge of natural selection can be misleading. Students who are first learning about evolution and natural selection should avoid using the term until they have a deeper knowledge of the subject.

Corporate Social Responsibility Degree Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Corporate Social Responsibility Degree - Essay Example But, I would like to say that these employees consist of only internal society of the corporation and there is an external society too out side of our corporation's four corners. In addition to selling our brand products at home, we have been regularly exporting our items to far and wide places in the world, especially Asian and African countries, indicating strongly that our fortunes are heavily linked to those people. But, take a look at I propose that our company should take the lead at least this year in effectively fulfilling our CSR. As a first step toward this, the management should form a separate CSR wing at our corporate office for identifying proper areas of CSR at home and abroad. As a senior employee of the company, I assure you full cooperation from the employees in keeping the commitment towards CSR. On our part, we are ready to contribute a bit financially too from our salaries to supplement your funding for our CSR projects. As a second step, our company should join hands with UK's major charity organisation Water Aid which has been providing safe drinking water, sanitation and hygienic education to the poorest of the poor people in some African and Asian countries (What we do, Where we work.). Using sustainable and practical technologies, Water Aid has 4 been closely working with locals in India, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Ghana, Tanzania and some other needy countries to improve quality of life of the downtrodden. Several corporate companies have already joined hands with the Water Aid and been continuously sharing the honours in alleviating the sufferings of the underprivileged around the world. Let us also join them and share the honours along with several others. Yours sincerely Mr.X (Human Resources Division) 5 References: What we do, (Water Aid UK, London), retrieved January 10, 2006 from http://www.wateraid.org.uk/uk/default.asp 1 Dated 10-01-2006. To The President ABC Corporation London Venerable Sir, As an x-corporate division head of XYZ Corporation, I feel elated in formally seeking a placement in your prestigious organisation. I have a vast experience of 20 years in the company in executing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects at home and abroad. As you know very well, XYZ is the leader in CSR and known internationally for its commitment to the society. During my tenure as head of its CSR division, we have continuously implemented several CSR projects making the XYZ Corporation much 2 more popular. Of course, the reputation of xyz Corporation on its CSR front was due to the contribution of several of its employees who participated in the programmes. Your company

Analysis Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Analysis - Research Paper Example Further, the VPD may fall short of establishing an effective interagency agreement – which is supposed to play the role of directing the guidelines of the investigations. VPD may also fall short of the needs for computerized information tracking and intelligence systems – which may address the investigative needs of the investigations to be administered at the at the different areas of crime, which reach beyond its jurisdiction. Other areas that may limit the success of the VPD in administering the investigations in an effective manner include, effective communication among the task forces involved across the different areas of crime, experienced leadership, the coordination of efforts and realizing effective forfeiture activities and effective asset seizure. Other areas of limitation include the obligation of long-term funding, formulating clear performance measures, goals and the objectives of for the different locations of crime. The collection of data, evaluation an d monitoring as well as offering technical backing and training programs towards realizing the best results from the crime scene investigations may form another area of difficulty for VPD. Following these areas of investigation or investigation preparation, which may challenge the ability of the VPD, there is need to present the investigation exercise to a multijurisdictional task force, which holds more potential to meet the needs of the current investigation (Cardenas, 2002). 2 In the case the investigations are started by the VPD, the investigation by this agent may be limited to the three crimes that took place within its jurisdiction. Further, even during the course of the investigations by the VPD, certain areas may require the input of an investigative task force. These areas include the formulation of interagency agreements – which offer guidelines to the investigation process; and in the area of running intelligence systems and computerized information models, as the se may require the input of highly experienced investigative technicians, who may only be available from the wider investigative task force. Other tasks that may require the input of an investigative task force include overseeing the communication across the different areas of crime, where there is need for higher level coordination of efforts and where there is need for investigative inquiries beyond the power of VPD. Further, at the time when the investigation extends beyond the areas of crime, under the jurisdiction of VPD will require the establishment of an investigative task force, as such a team will oversee the formulation of clear goals, performance evaluation and objectives for the different regions, as well as offer technical support and assistance across the multi-boundary areas of crime (Cardenas, 2002). 3 One advantage of an investigative task force is that, despite their origins on the roles of the military and the jurisdiction of the areas in question, the role of th e task force reaches beyond the boundaries of the military, thus offer information which is not affected by the prejudices likely to affect a one player team of investigation. For example, their mandate extends to areas of law enforcement and the business world. The task force also enjoys a sense of autonomy when executing their investigative roles, as the decision making process is commanded by highly ranking authorities who do not need the supervision of superiors, like the case may be for an agent like the VPD. As a result,

Conflict Between Research and Ethics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Conflict Between Research and Ethics - Essay Example These are countered though by the Nuremberg Code, the Declaration of Helsinki and the acts of the American and other medical associations. The world has been beset and besieged by various viruses and ailments that up to now remedies and cures are not yet available despite medical interventions and researches. While scientists have yet to find a cure for cancer and AIDS, mutated and virulent strains of viruses have cropped up to claim numerous lives while helpless governments watch in desperation as their citizens fall prey to these esoteric diseases. In 1918, Swine Flu made its ghastly entrance in Fort Riley, USA and immediately worked to wipe out half a million people. It reappeared in Russia in 1933 and in 1976 went back to USA to annihilate more people. Medical researchers frenetically worked to find an immunization remedy for this and vaccinated by government edict, some 40 million Americans. But to their horror, a new strain of disease was generated as a side effect which caused serious neurological disorders. This was named Guillain-Barre Syndrome and victimized 1098 people, 25 of whom died (Orr,2007,pp.21,23). R esulting to manifold lawsuits, this was one case where medical research floundered. Meantime, the swine flu made its presence felt again in Mexico in April 2009 and in a new mutated form which is called A(H1N1) and quickly spread to 30 countries infecting 12,515 people, 91 of which succumbed to death (Reuters, http://http://h1n1virus.us). In most of these cases, governments, in their desire to contain the disease, forcibly vaccinate those afflicted with the antiviral drug Tamiflu or Relenza which medical researchers had come up with to fight the mutated swine flu disease (Reuters, http://h1n1virus.us). Other virulent viruses that made medical researchers work against time to halt them before they bring down more people were the Asian Flu which originated in China in 1957 and killed some 70,000 Americans and 2 million people globally (Orr,2007,p.21); the Ebola Virus which internal and external hemorrhagic symptoms were truly frightening but which was contained only within Zaire and Sudan where it wiped out 400 people (Williams & Wilkins,2008,p.1010); the Avian flu in 1997; SARS in 2003(Friedlander,2009,pp.111-7) and HIV/AIDS virus, first identified in 1981 but which up to now continues to rage and has already killed 2.1 million people while infecting 33.2 million people worldwide (UNAIDS,WHO,2007). The Role of Modern Medical Research Hereinabove, it is clear that medical research has to be maximized in order to save lives from all these virulent strains of viruses that threaten to wipe out humanity from the face of the earth. Only the efforts of medical researchers can save humanity from a life-threatening devastation of the magnitude of bubonic plague which once wiped out of existence 1/3 of Europe or 25 million people from 1346-50 alone. The pioneering efforts of medical researchers to discover drugs such as streptomycin, gentamicin, tetracyclines and chloramphenicol in order to put to stoppage the havoc of devastation inflicted by The Black Death all over the world from 542 to 1950, was

Art Museums: Issues in Profits, Acquisition and Ethics

Art Museums: Issues in Profits, Acquisition and Ethics Acquisition, Ethics, and Profit in the Art World What happens in the art world affects all parts of it, from the most well endowed museum to the myriad lesser-known and unknown galleries that try to eke out a living. This paper will examine the ways in which museums have weathered the vagaries of the market over the past few decades, including not-for-profit institutions as well as the for-profit sector, including the gray area in which the two—rarely—meet. The unifying factor, as this paper will show, is the reputation of the institution. The reputation of any building that houses works of art is a priceless commodity, whether it is a huge institution of international reputation, or a small but well-respected gallery with equally high standards of decorum and ethics. To maintain that reputation at all costs is of vital importance if an institution is to survive and remain a respected part of the art community. Ethics, Profit and Culture in Museums The role of museums in contemporary society has changed in the last several decades; still considered essential to society as both reflection and mirror, museums have found themselves floundering for financial support as never before. To continue to thrive—often just to survive—they have had to adapt to meet the new demands of a multicultural world, while at the same time maintaining their respected status. Traditionally seen as temples for the muses, todays museums are being challenged to be ethical for society and to build their reputation (Wood Rentschler, 2003). Traditionally, museums throughout the Western world have supported themselves in a variety of ways, most of which are dependent on cultural travel and funding sources. Admission receipts and gift-shop sales form part of their income. Donations from the government and from private and other funding sources supplement that. In recent years, however, cultural tourism rates have dropped, and additional funding from government and private sources has dwindled, leaving budgetary needs unmet. To stay afloat, museums have had to adapt and change with the times. They have done, and continue to do this, in a number of ways. Among these ways, unfortunately, have been activities that have raised eyebrows in the art world, and questions about acquisition, ethics, and profit have come to the fore. Importance of Reputation As institutions which house the priceless treasures and artifacts of our cultural pasts, museums are generally held in high regard. Among smaller galleries, there is also a hierarchy, primarily based on integrity and fair dealings with artists and with each other. For the larger institutions, though, in order to maintain this regard, they are expected to adhere to a higher standard. This expectation is so deeply ingrained that it seems at times a given: museums are considered bastions of artistic culture and historical identity. They are institutions which foster intellectual growth and which exercise discriminating taste and ethical behavior in building and maintaining their collections. Regardless of the exhibition or programme concepts, notes Edson, there are qualities and initiatives that are fundamental to museums, such as intellectual honesty, promotion of critical thinking, enhancement of open-mindedness and the sensitizing of visitors to the commonwealth of humankind (2001: p. 43). This is a tall order to uphold—and one which is under constant scrutiny. What happens when these hallowed institutions fall upon financial hardship? They adapt. The ways in which they adapt may change our preconceived notions of what a museum should be. For example, the concept of blockbuster exhibits in the eighties was considered unacceptable to some. This blatant advertising to sell art—in essence, sell culture, seemed a betrayal of the highest standards, a mockery of itself. It forced many to reconfigure commonly held notions about the institutions themselves. In his memoirs, art critic Richard Feigen echoes what many felt at the time: As museums began to commercialize, to adapt to 1970s inflation, exhibitions also veered away from an emphasis on scholarship toward a preoccupation with box office (2000: 137). The very words box office, in such close proximity to scholarship and museums, would have seemed quite jarring at the time. Yet, since then, we have grown more accustomed—albeit gradually—to the concept of art-for-profit. After all, someone has got to pay for the acquisitions and maintenance of cultural artifacts. If the funding is not forthcoming, museums have had to choose whether to close up their doors and die out like an obsolete breed, or to reinvent themselves in ways they deem acceptable. Having for the most part chosen the latter, museums have had to become more aggressive in pursuit of the funds necessary to at least survive, and hopefully to flourish. This has necessarily caused their patrons to reassess and re-evaluate as well. Just as museum definitions have changed, so too has our understanding of museum ethics explain Wood and Rentschler (2003). It has also forced us to understand the roles of the individuals who run these institutions, as Feigen concedes: In this new era of museology, he writes, a directors success has come to be measured by the crowds he attracts, the funds he raises, the buildings he builds, and how effectively he can dodge political cross fire (2000: 109). A major issue which has sprung from this process of adaptation is the need to maintain an impeccable reputation in the process. The last few decades have been a period of just that, as the concept of the museum—and the actual institutions themselves—have evolved to meet the needs of the people they serve: the patrons. Todays museums are called upon to offer an enhanced experience in an appropriately comfortable environment, one that instills a sense of cultural pride as well as challenge. In so doing, Edson writes: The museum by facilitating that experience serves the individual and the host community to the fullest extent of the concept of public service (Edson, 2001: p. 44). In order to do this, however, the reputation of the museum must remain intact; this means that decisions about affiliations with those outside the museum itself must be absolutely circumspect. And this, in recent years, is where museums have been coming under fire. The Staff The staff of a museum—from curators to custodians—forms the backbone of day-to-day operations. Considered in that light, the actions of staff members may be seen as a reflection on the museum itself. This is something that pertains to all levels of staffing. The security personnel who are responsible for safeguarding national treasures may not be accorded the highest prestige in society, but the importance of their roles should never be played down. A disturbance that distracts even a single security staff member from absolute vigilance can potentially set off a series of events that may lead to loss through damage or theft. And there are several known instances in which the roles of security personnel have been key in allowing unauthorised access to works of art: that they would willingly allow this is untenable, but not inexplicable. Monetary pressures mount, and outside influences can be very persuasive. Arts organisations cannot think that their people will be immune to these pressures assert Wood and Rentschler (2003). They advise that clearly stated ethical practices be a part of every organisation to avoid this very thing. They must be part of the training program, and they must be reviewed and reinforced on a regular basis to maintain both morale and loyalty. Failure to do so can have irrevocably damaging results: If temptation is not resisted, it can compromise the values for which the organisation stands and irrevocabl y damage the reputation that it may have worked for years to create (Wood Rentschler, 2003). These practices must apply to all levels of museum staff, not just those who can provide immediate access. What about those in positions further up in the hierarchy, who have just as much access as well as additional access and power? Their actions must at all times be in accordance with museum policy; in addition, they must adhere to the law—local, national, and international. This is particularly important when it comes to acquisition of properties whose histories may be questionable. To knowingly—or unknowingly—acquire stolen property is anathema, however authentic a piece may be. Any irregularities regarding provenance are a red flag, since a single lapse in judgment can cost a museum its cultural standing as well as its profitability. Alan Shestock, Director of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, explains that museum curators are acquirers. . . . Most of us go into the profession because the desire to accumulate and bring together objects of quality is in our blood. We are personally and professionally devoted to adding to and improving our holdings . . . (Shestock, 1989: 97–98). This kind of passion, paired with the need to keep ones collection top-rate, can cause considerable angst. To know that a particular, highly coveted item is authentic is an exciting enough discovery for a museum professional. To know, furthermore, or to merely suspect, that its origins may be less-than-circumspect, means that this object cannot become a part of the museums holdings. This is not an easy thing to do. Explains Shestock: To consciously or intentionally turn down a highly desirable object we can afford to buy on the basis that we suspect that it might have been removed illegally from its country of origin—and also k nowing that it will end up in the collection of a rival institution or an unscrupulous private collector is a very hard thing to do (1989: 97–98). Edson and Dean point out several situations in which the circumstances may lead to ethically questionable behaviors. First, there are curators whose job responsibilities include researching and writing about the objects in their collections. Curators hired to research and interpret the collection in their care sometimes regard the notes and associated materials that result from this work as their personal property, regardless of the museums ownership of the actual collections objects (Edson Dean, 1994: p. 235). If the funding for this research is solely supplied by the institution, all rights would seem to revert to the museum. However, it is seldom this straightforward, as personal research may be involved as well. The situation becomes further complicated when international objects are involved, as there are several sets of law which much be adhered to in order to maintain high ethical standards. There are other, even more controversial situations, however, many of which result in unavoidable conflicts of interest. With whom should ones loyalty lie? According to Edson and Dean, in the case of curators, loyalty must be first to the institution; to avoid having to resolve the issue, they suggest judicious discrimination in selection of any extracurricular pastimes: activities that conflict with this loyalty or cause curators to favor outside or personal interests over those of their institutions must be avoided (1994: 232). What of gifts that are made directly to a museum professional? This can be confusing, since gifts can cover a range of services. A professional who would never under any circumstance accept a costly creation of artistic work may think nothing at all of accepting other favors, such as discounts. But these, too, must be avoided, and ultimately rejected. Finally, since it is commonly accepted that most individuals do not go into the arts for its lucrative remuneration, there may come times when it is necessary for museum personnel to supplement their incomes with additional paying work. This is particularly complex in cases in which higher-level museum professionals, such as curators, moonlight, or do additional evening or weekend work for pay. Such specialized types of work may bring them into contact with numerous opportunities for temptation, all of which are to be turned down to maintain propriety. Even a distant association with parties who are entangled with any kind of illegal trade can taint that professionals reputation, and therefore the museum itself. And cases like this are more common than most would like to admit—not to mention far-reaching: the illicit traffic in cultural property is, like narcotics, an international problem (Herscher, 1989: p. 118). Art for Profit In their article, Show Me the Monet, Steve Friess and Peter Plagens broach a subject which continues to be a point of contention in the art world. They discuss an agreement between the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and the new Bellagio in Las Vegas, Nevada. According to the agreement, the Boston museum would lend a number of Monets to the Bellagio—for a fee. The tradition of extending loans to one another is long-standing among museums, large and small. The agreement to do so for cash, is less common. Among the loftier institutions, it is practically unheard of. Lending art works for set sums of money puts a new twist on the issue. In return for the loan of Monets, the Bellagio agreed to pay the Museum of Fine Arts a hefty some—at least one million dollars. The traditional cashless quid pro quo for lending art to other museums—OK, well lend you our Picasso if we can borrow your Matisse—had been augmented by lending fees (Friess and Plagens, 2004). This calls into question a number of issues, the most pressing of which seems to be, where does one draw the line? If items which are part of a museums permanent collection are accorded dollar values and made available for that price, can anyone with appropriate funds borrow them? What will this do to the reputations, not only of the museums that engage in this, but to the works of art themselves, and to the notion of cultural heritage in general? Ethics, Profit, and Culture in Dealership In a similar vein, private art dealers have had problems of a slightly different nature over the past few decades. Contemporary notions of an art dealer tend to be unkind. Less-than-savory deals, sly cash transactions, cagy tax evasion: these are what come to mind before the subject of art comes into focus. Art critic Peter Schjeldahl puts it succinctly in his article on art dealership in New York, in which he asserts that popular opinion sees the gallery owner as a stock figure of slinky charlatanry, or worse (2004). Because of this, it is with no small amount of glee that people welcome gossipy tidbits about high-society art dealers being brought down in shady, six-figure stings. People savor the cynical rush of discovering garden-variety greed behind a pose of lofty, intimidating sophistication notes Schjeldahl (2004). But, Schjeldahl points out, no matter what one thinks of an art dealers character, one thing remains constant: good taste. Without it, all the pretension means nothing. In addition, there is a hierarchy among the smaller circle of individual galleries that are also part of the art world. Judging by her record of accomplishment and her reputation in the art world, Marian Goodman seems to embody the highest of standards. First of all, when it comes to discrimination and taste, Goodman seems to have an abundance of both. The reputation of a dealer is of great importance in the art world, despite popular conceptions. Goodman, too, has had to weather the storms of changing times, just as larger, loftier museums have had to do, and she, too, has survived. Among her contemporaries, however, Goodman commands a high level of respect for refusing to follow trends and continuing to maintain her own exemplary standards. She employs what some see as old-fashioned standards in both her selection of gallery site and her selection of artists. For example, her gallery is still located in Manhattan, New York City, despite the mass exodus of galleries to outer boroughs of the metropolis. Furthermore, she has steadfastly remained in the pricier part of Manhattan, in the heart of the theatre district, in the mid-fifties. In his New Yorker article, art critic Peter Schjeldahl explains that Goodman could very easily save money and gain vastly more visibility by relocating to Chelsea . . . (2004, p. 36). However, Goodman refuses to budge, preferring instead the uniqueness of her own more expensive showplace to the identical hives of lower Manhattan. Of course, as a private dealer, she is free of the pressures of a committee of trustees and similar directives. Conclusion The art world is at once a seemingly small and insular community on the one hand, and a global community of vast proportions on the other. What happens in this world affects all parts of it, from the most well endowed museum to the lesser-known private galleries. This paper has attempted to examine how both the not-for-profit and for-profit sectors have managed to survive in the last several decades, adapting to best meet the needs of their patrons while maintaining the integrity and values they hold dear. One thing that is undeniable is reputation: To maintain that reputation at all costs is of vital importance if an institution is to survive and remain a respected part of the art community. Edson and Dean have noted that Objects communicate far beyond the walls of the museum in which they are housed. They influence the appreciation and appearance of objects of everyday use, and the level of respect and understanding for the personal and collective natural and cultural heritage of a people or nation (Edson, 1996, p. 7). The reputation of any building that houses works of art is a priceless commodity, whether it is a huge institution of international reputation, or a small but well-respected gallery with equally high standards of decorum and ethics. The slightest hint of a breach in ethical standards is enough to shake the very foundation of an institution; if the breach itself is, in fact, made known to be fact, it is highly unlikely that it will every regain its former stature, nor command the same level of respect. References Edson, Gary. 2001. Socioexhibitry as Popular Communication. Museum International: July 2001, Vol. 53, Iss. 3, pp. 40–44. Edson, Gary and Dean, David. 1994. The Handbook for Museums. London: Routledge. Feigen, Richard. 2000. Tales from the Art Crypt: The Painters, the Museums, the Curators, the Collectors, the Auctions, the Art. New York: Knopf. Friess, Steve, and Plagens, Peter. 2004. Show Me the Monet. Newsweek. New York, Vol. 143, Iss. 4, p. 60. Herscher, Ellen. 1989. International Control Efforts: Are There Any Good Solutions? In Messenger, P., ed. The Ethics of Collecting Cultural Property. Albuquerque, New Mexico: University of New Mexico Press, pp. 117–128. Messenger, Phyllis, ed. 1989. The Ethics of Collecting Cultural Property. Albuquerque, New Mexico: University of New Mexico Press. Schjeldahl, Peter. 2004. Dealership: Onward and Upward With the Arts. The New Yorker. New York: Feb. 2, 2004, p. 36. Shestock, Alan. 1989. The Museum and Cultural Property: The Transformation of Institutional Ethics. In Messenger, P., ed. The Ethics of Collecting Cultural Property. Albuquerque, New Mexico: University of New Mexico Press, pp. 93– 102. Wood,Greg, and Rentschler, Ruth. 2003. Ethical behaviour: The Means for Creating and Maintaining Better Reputations in Arts Organisations. Management Decision. London: 2003.Vol. 41, Iss. 5/6, p.528-537.

Graduation Speech: Always Look On The Bright Side of Life :: Graduation Speech, Commencement Address

I have been chosen today to come before you and give some words of encouragement to the graduating class because I am seen as an example of one who has succeeded in school. And yet, I am by no means the only person in our class who has succeeded. Woody Allen once said, â€Å"Success is 80 percent showing up† and since all of you have shown up here today and at school for the last 12 years, you all are most of the way there. So what makes up the remaining 20 percent? Not getting all As on your tests, or going to state or winning first prize in a contest. It is merely trying. If you try your best, you have already succeeded, regardless of where you end up. The world is a fickle place and too often the most deserving, hardest-working people are passed over in favor of the ones who obtain the best-looking accomplishments. Thus, one’s measure of success should be based not on how well you do by society’s standards, but on how hard you worked and how much you got out o f it. As Tennyson once said, â€Å"How dull it is to pause, to make an end, To rust unburnish’d, not to shine in use!† But rather, we should be, as he said, like the â€Å"spirit yearning in desire To follow knowledge like a sinking star, Beyond the utmost bound of human thought ... To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.† Just because we are graduating today does not mean we now know everything; rather, it is just the opposite. As we go out into the world we will continue to grow, to learn, to mature. Indeed, this is perhaps one of the greatest qualities of mankind, that we can develop our minds to better understand. It is a rare and important gift that should not be abused through neglect or halfhearted attention. Never stop trying and never stop learning because the moment you do, you begin to die. Once you leave here tonight, you will no longer be seniors. You will be adults, set adrift with the entire world at your disposal. It will be up to you, and you alone, to decide your futures. Today more than ever, as we stand at the dawn of the new millennium, you have the opportunity to become something great, to achieve wondrous deeds.