Bartleby, the Scrivener the Lady with the Dog Essay

A number of the stories studied this semester explore the conflict between social restraint and inner compulsion. Discuss at least two of the stories in the light of this. Through an exploration of the boundaries between social constraint and inner compulsion, Melville and Chekov reveal the restrictions forced upon one’s personal desires as they struggle to find a balance between conflicting values and social norms. Anna and Gurov in ‘The Lady with the Dog’ are restrained by the socially expected conventions in their marriages, inhibiting their ability to express their inner compulsion of desire. Chekov reveals their yearning to escape their individual lives as they cope with personal troubles by distancing themselves from marriage†¦show more content†¦He uses his employment as a means of escaping social conventions through his monotonous statement â€Å"I would prefer not† (Melville 1998, p. 198), living a life of choice and preference in a world where preference is non-existent. Bartleby represents a new form of humanity where an individual has the right to choice rather than living a life of routine through social constraints, defying all forms of society’s restrictions in order to reveal his true desires. Chekhov explores this concept of conflict through Anna and Gurov’s relationship in ‘The Lady with the Dog’ as he reveals a need to defy social restraints in order to escape their marriages as this restricts them from fully embracing their desires. The image of the â€Å"long grey fence adorned with nails† (Chekhov 1998, p. 371), symbolises the confines of marriage keeping them apart, unable to be free from social restraint. Creating an air of seclusion and limitations, this depiction appears to be fending off Gurov, producing a feeling of entrapment and isolation as it separates their love. The image of an old woman, a beggar and a dog walking in and out of the fence freely further emphasises this lack of freedom they have in their lives; the portrayal of a beggar being the most illuminating aspect of this passage. Even what is considered as the lowest form of humanity, appears to show more freedom then what they can as they cannot pass thisShow MoreRelat edBelonging Essay4112 Words   |  17 PagesInventing Elliot YA Golden, Arthur Memoirs of a geisha AF Golding, William Lord of the flies AF YA Grenville, Kate The secret river AF Greene, Graham Brighton Rock AF Gwynne, Phillip Deadly, Unna? APB YA Haddon, Mark The curious incident of the dog in the night-time AF, APB YA http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Curious_Incident_of_the_Dog_in_the_Night-time Hardy, Thomas Jude, the obscure AF Hardy, Thomas Tess of the D’Ubervilles AF Hawthorne, Nathaniel The scarlet letter AF Hemingway, Ernest,

Essay about Two of the Greatest Paintings Made by Vincent...

Vincent Van Gogh was born in 1853. He would grow to be one of the greatest artists of his era. Van Gogh utilized a variety of colors on the spectrum, giving his paintings life. He often used the art style of impressionists in that his paintings are depicted as he sees fit, and not how they are naturally viewed (Cliff). His paintings consisted of complex brush strokes that would vary in the amounts of paint used. He used colors in order to push emotion onto the audience through contrasting colors and his works often reflected his own mood and surroundings. Van Gogh continued to use impressionism until he mastered the use of color techniques and expressing emotion in order to bring life to his paintings, as shown in The Sower and The Night†¦show more content†¦So I have tried to express, as it were, the powers of darkness in a low public house, by soft Louis XV green and malachite, contrasting with yellow-green and harsh blue-greens, and all this in an atmosphere like a devils furnace, of pale sulphur† (Gogh). The Night Cafà © projects a feeling of distortion and unbalance through its asymmetrical design (Harding). There is a doorway in the back that is curtained halfway. Behind the doorway is what seems to be living spaces that are to be rented by travelers. There are five people, presumably customers, scattered across the cafà ©. There is a waiter next to the billiard table dressed in tan clothing. There are three walls lined with seating arrangements. There is a bar with a variety bottles with a flower vase centered near the curtained walkway. The walls are a very rich red. The lights project yellow rays of light that illuminate the room and cast a shadow onto the billiards table. The clock in the back of the room lets the viewers know that it is past midnight; therefore it is assumed that it is a rough crowd. The technique used in The Night Cafà © is unlike any Impressionist artwork of its time. Van Gogh used arbitrary to present his own emotions throughout the painting. Both the walls and ceiling consist of rich reds and greens that contrast in a violent nature. The light fixturesShow MoreRelatedVincent Van Gogh Essay1397 Words   |  6 PagesVincent Van Gogh was one of the world s greatest artists. Though not widely known in his lifetime, he is now considered to be the greatest Dutch artist aside from Rembrandt. He was born Vincent William van Gogh in Groot-Zundert, a small town in Brabant Netherlands, on March 30, 1853. His father was a protestant pastor which is believed to have greatly influenced Van Gogh . His mother, Anna Cornelia Carbentus, was artist that loved nature, drawing and watercolors. Her interest in all of theseRead More Vincent Van Gogh Essay1593 Words   |  7 Pages Most casual art lovers see Van Gogh as a troubled but successful artist. This is far from the actual truth of his chaotic life which was filled with failure in every occupational pursuit he attempted including painting, and was marked by episodes of depression, violence, and abnormal behavior. Thanks to the preservation of thousands of letters Van Gogh had written to friends and family, especially to his brother Theo, we have a nearly complete understanding of his feelings, experiments, andRead MoreVincent Van Gogh1003 Words   |  5 PagesVincent van Gogh began painting in 1879, and continued until his death in 1890. He died a premature death due to the decay of his mental stability, which led to a botched suicide attempt, causing his death two days later. He painted in the period of post-impressionism, during which he made 750 paintings, 1,600 drawings, nine lithographs, and one etching. Some of his most famous and most influential works include Starry Night, The Potato Eaters, and All-Night Cafà ©. Vincent Willem van Gogh was bornRead MoreVincent Van Gogh s Life1443 Words   |  6 PagesVincent Van Gogh â€Å"It is not the language of painters but the language of nature which one should listen to, the feeling for the things themselves, for reality, is more important than the feeling for pictures.† Said Vincent Van Gogh. (Gogh) Van Gogh is one of the most famous artist here known in this universe. He has came up with a ton of paintings and drawings in ten years then what other artists have in their life time. Has a decent life, art influenced him by a long shot, and his artwork is justRead MoreEssay about Vincent Van Gogh 1358 Words   |  6 PagesVincent Willem van Gogh Vincent Willem van Gogh was born on March 30th 1853, in Zundert, The Netherlands. Van Gogh spent his teenage year’s working for a firm of art dealers; however, he did not embark upon his art career until 1880. Originally, he worked only with dark and gloomy colors, until he came across the art movements developed in Paris known as, Impressionism and Neo-Impressionism (Meier-Graefe 4). Van Gogh than included their brighter colors and unique style of painting intoRead MoreVincent Van Gogh and His Contribution to Art.1100 Words   |  5 Pagescivilization. It tells us what our culture is. Every artist in history has been writing, composing, and painting the stories of each culture. Master painters like Jaques Louis David painted Napoleon and other historical paintings during the Neoclassical Period. Master composers, such as Bethoven composed works like the Moonlight Sonata. Art defines who are we are, It is civilization, and artists like Vincent Van Gogh influenced the mo dern world. And even though he lived more than a hundred and fifteen yearsRead More Vincent van Gogh Essay1550 Words   |  7 PagesVincent van Gogh In present time, Vincent van Gogh is probably the most widely known and highly appreciated person of postimpressionism. During his brief lifetime, Vincent’s work went almost unknown to this world. His work now hangs in countless museums throughout the world and is considered priceless. His work became an important bridge between the 19th and 20th centuries. The art-historical term, Postimpressionism was coined by Roger Fry a British art critic, who described the variousRead MoreVincent Van Gogh : The Greatest Artist Of All Time1710 Words   |  7 PagesVincent van Gogh is arguably considered one of the greatest artist of all time, but his career wasn’t always focused on the arts. Vincent was born March 30th, 1853, in Zundert, Neth, and did not begin his art career until the age of 27. (1) Prior to his ventures in the arts, Vincent, at the age of 16, worked as an art dealer apprentice for Goupil and Company. During his 3 year stay at Gurpil and Company, â€Å"Daily contact with works of art aroused his artistic sensibility, and he soon formed a tasteRead MoreVincent Van Gogh: A Brief Biography1168 Words   |  5 PagesVincent Van Gogh lived out these words as he created masterpieces by painting how he perceived the world. Van Gogh had an eccentric personality, however, continuously suffered from unstable moods and recurrent psychotic episodes caused by Temporal Lobe Epilepsy and Bipolar Disorder. Despite his suicide in the end, these illnesses correlate with his inability to form stable relationships while also enhancing his artwork. Vincent was born on March 30 in Zundert, Netherlands to Anne Cornelia CarbonatesRead MoreStarry Night By Vincent Van Gogh1302 Words   |  6 PagesStarry Night is a famous painting by Vincent Van Gogh. Starry Night was constructed in 1889. At the time of his existence, Van Gogh was not well known. Van Gogh only sold one painting during his lifetime, and only became popular after his death like many other artists at the time. To fully understand this painting, one must know the personal life/struggles of the artist himself. When people hear the name â€Å" Vincent Van Gogh,† most automatically think of the crazed artist that cut off his own ear and

Bachelor of Social Work Application Free Essays

Social work is a vital part of every community. Social work aims at better understanding the issues concerning the people with respect to their environment and works on improving the living standards and the general human conditions. It is the science of exploring the dilemmas present in societies and community and make positive changes to social justice and economic status. We will write a custom essay sample on Bachelor of Social Work Application or any similar topic only for you Order Now This paper would address to questions social work related issues and problems. It would elaborate on the ethical concerns of social work. Moreover, it would discuss the role of self awareness with respect to social work. Discussion Social work related issue: Working as a social correspondent is not an easy task. Social work involves the responsibilities of insuring the rehabilitation of the society and its counterparts in a way that a better quality of life is granted to the people through solving the domestic issues and problems. One of the pressing issues in today’s communities and homes is the abundant use of drugs. over the passage of time, one of the major relief giver that people find from the tension and stress of the fast paced lifestyles is the use of drugs to relax the mind. Drug abuse is often an addiction and it has a vital affect on an individuals environments. Youngsters are more prone to this issue and need protection in situations where there family members are drug abusers. It is the responsibility of social workers to make sure that there are no youngsters that are at risk at home or elsewhere due to drug abusing and if cases are found, youngsters need to be taken into care. Social workers often find it difficult to assess the number of children that are living in high risk situations where they are not available with adequate safety, protection and support from drug abusing parents. In societies where there are no legal regulations and inadequate authorities, people are prone to drug abuse and this is when the social work is needed in order to maintain the safety and protection for the residents. Professional ethics in social work practice: Being aware of the ethical codes is a fundamental part of being a professional social worker. The ethical responsibilities that rest with social workers include the factor of loyalty that they have towards their work. Social workers work in the best interest of people and this often conflicts with the factors of efficiency and utility. Furthermore, it is a fact that the resources are often limited when it comes to working within societies. One of the major foils of the professional ethical code of conduct of social workers is the factor of mutual respect and dignity of everyone. Social work is the profession that encourages social change and it builds the relationship among people in order to enhance their well-being. For social work to be effective and efficient, social workers need to defend each person’s emotional, physical and psychological well being and integrity in the best manner possible. Social workers are also responsible for maintaining social justice. For this to be effective, they need to respect diversity and abstain from discrimination on the bases of age, sex, culture, socio-economics background and various other aspects. Social work inherits the ethical responsibility of challenging any unjust policies or practices that are carried out and ensure that all the resources are distributed fairly according to the needs. (Levy, 1993) There are some other ethical codes of conduct that need to be followed by social workers in order to remain professional and qualifies in their field. It is unlawful to use the social work in negative schemes such as torturing or black mailing people into getting them to act in certain ways. Social workers are expected to retain empathy and compassion while dealing with people. Confidentiality of the people of use social services and accountability of actions are also important characteristics of the ethical responsibilities of social workers. (Levy, 1993) Self-awareness: Self awareness in social work is as important as the ethical implications. It is important to keep a respectful and non-judgmental attitude when working with people. Self awareness is basically the recognition of the element of one’s personality. It includes the strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes. It is very important for social workers to develop self awareness as it helps them in recognizing when and how they get under pressure and stressed. Self awareness is vital for a more open and thorough communication because interpersonal relations is the core of social work. Self awareness is correlated with ethics and it helps ensure that the workers are empathetic towards the people and they develop and consciousness of how they view the world and the values that they hold. Developing an understanding on one’s own values, cultures and beliefs helps in respecting a multicultural and diversified view of the society. Once the thoughts, beliefs, personality traits, values and biases that lie within a person are recognized, it is easy for the workers to acknowledge the different identifies and personalities that exist in societies and it is easier to overcome biases and maintain a more empathetic overview. Self awareness is therefore a skill that is critical for social workers to inculcate in order for them to acquire professional growth and become competent in their field. Conclusion In the end it is important to understand that social work involves dealing with all kinds of people and rehabilitating them and the society as a whole in order to facilitate justice and enable a better quality and standard of living for the society. Hence, it is important to maintain ethical responsibilities and carry out the work without any implicit bias. References Levy, C. S (1993). Social work ethics on the line. Haworth press. How to cite Bachelor of Social Work Application, Papers

The More We Have the More We Want free essay sample

Nowadays we live in a society, which is obsessed with materialistic things. In supermarkets, shops, on the internet also almost everywhere we are surrounded with products which we could buy. Unfortunately people want more and more stuff and are not satisfied with what they have. People have need to own more and more things, because the society requisite It from us. The people around us push us to buy new things, to have stuff which we really do not need. So the cold truth is that we are competing with others.On the other side there is the media, who manipulates us and we do not even recognize it. The commercials always have effects on us and make us believe that we really need the product which they are selling. There are every year more and more shopping centers and they are every time bigger and bigger. Visiting shopping centers became a holiday or a relaxation or a plan for the weekend. We will write a custom essay sample on The More We Have the More We Want or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Lot of women and even men became Sophocles and obsessed with all kind of products and stuff. Consequently is the money what we most need and want.Without money we cannot afford this things and this Is why we want more and more money. The society is expressing to us that persons who have lot of money have comfortably and better life, have everything what they want and are happy. But believe that this Is not true. I think that money cannot buy happiness. And I totally agree with the statement which says that money is the root of all evil. On the other hand we can also be obsessed with power, fame, and all kind of psychical stuff The power is the most dangerous of them.One you eave a little power over somebody you want more and more. Good examples of this are the negative and bad personalities in history like Hitler, Stalin and others. And this is why we need to be careful with our power. In conclusion in my essay I absolutely supported the statement above and I exposure only the bad sides, because I believe that there are only negative sides about that. I hope that people will begin to starve for knowledge and not for material or bad psychical things. Only this would be good to have a lot and want more and more.

Comparison of Normal and Abnormal Psychology

Find a Book Idea That Sells 3 Things You Must Check Before You Write Your Book

Find a Book Idea That Sells 3 Things You Must Check Before You Write Your Book Find a Book Idea That Sells: 3 Things You Must Check Before You Write Your Book If you’re about to write a book, and you want a book idea that sells,  there are three things you absolutely must check before you spend a minute writing your book.Researching these three things will help you write your book more confidently because you’ll have firm reason to believe readers will love and buy your book.Once you have your book idea, and before you begin writing, you need to check that there’s:People looking for your book ideaPeople willing to pay for your book ideaCompetition you can beatThere are two ways to complete each of the following steps: an easy, low-cost way and a time-consuming, free way. I’ll explain both. No matter which method you choose, just choose one of them so you can embark on your book writing journey with confidence. 1. Are there people looking for your book idea?Before you spend weeks, months, or years laboring to create your book, smart authors validate that there are people searching for your book idea on the inte rnet first.The free method is to type in www.KWFinder.com and use their free tool that currently allows you 3 searches per day, and type in your book idea. One piece of information this site gives you is the average times per month people type and search for your term. The higher the number, the more people actively are looking for the information you’re thinking of writing about.This tool does not tell you how many people are searching for your idea on Amazon, however, which can make your results a little dicey. Sometimes people are just looking to learn free or quick information, and not actually looking to read an entire book.When people search for a topic on Amazon, however, they are there to buy something. That’s why doing this research using a software that specifically gives you Amazon data is the best option. Enter KDP Rocket. When you search for a book idea using KDP Rocket, it gives you the estimated number of times people search for your idea on Google and o n Amazon each month. And there’s no limit to how many ideas you can search per day.Here’s the results for my fictitious book idea about ‘habits’:Once you’ve verified people are searching for your book idea, the next step is to make sure they’re willing to pay for the information.2. Are there people willing to pay for your book idea?Unless you’re planning to give your book away for free, this step is crucial. If you don’t have KDP Rocket, you’ll want to head over to Amazon.com and search in the Kindle Store for your writing idea. Look at the search results that appear on the first page. For each book, scroll down to find the Amazon Best Seller Rank. You’ll probably want to create a spreadsheet now if you haven’t already to keep track of the numbers. Once you have the Best Seller Rank for each, you should put each number into the Amazon Best Seller Rank Calculator. The calculator will tell you how many books a re selling each day. If you multiply this number by 30, you’ll get the estimated money per month that book makes.If you do this for all 14 of the books that show up on the first page of your search, you can find the average your book idea makes per month. This will give you an idea if it’s profitable enough for you to pursue.   If you’re looking for the fast and easy way, you’d already have this information right at your fingertips from doing step 1 (verifying people are looking for your book). By clicking ‘Analyze’ on KDP Rocket, you can immediately learn the average earnings per month. Wow, habits is a money-maker! Look at that second column!So people are looking for your idea and they are willing to pay for your idea, but can you compete with the big dogs? 3. Can you beat the competition for your book idea?Terms like ‘habits’ are popular and profitable, but the competition is intense. You may have noticed the column called à ¢â‚¬Å"Competitive Score.† This gives you a score between 1-100 on how hard it would be to get your book to appear when people search for your term. A 1 is easy-peasy and 100 is near-impossible. I’m guessing like me, you’re not a famous author, so you’ll want to find book ideas that have lower competition. Scores in the 20s or below are my usual target. This doesn’t mean you can’t write a book about habits. This just means you might have to keep searching to refine your idea to be more specific so you can better compete. When you search in the Kindle Store for your idea, you’ll want to take note of the number of results that appear. This tells us there are 8,055 other books that rank for the term â€Å"habits† on Amazon.Next, click on the top 3 results and write down their Amazon Best Seller Rank. Find the average of these 3 numbers to find the average Best Seller Rank of the top 3 books. You should aim to get your book to rank # 1 since it gets the most clicks, and definitely be able to compete with the top 3.Then, look at the book covers, book descriptions, and reviews. Give each book a score 1-100 based on your opinion of its professionalism, design, clarity, and happiness of reviewers. If it looks like a book you could easily beat, it’s a 1. If it’s perfect and virtually unbeatable, give it 100. Having all these numbers in an excel spreadsheet will help you analyze the competition of your book idea.If that seems like a lot of work, or you don’t know how to score the competition, you’ll love what KDP Rocket can do for you. When you click on the ‘Analyze’ button to discover how much money the book idea makes, a Competitive Score was also automatically generated. For ‘habits,’ the competition is 73pretty tough. Rocket will also give you a bunch of other recommended terms to consider, so by simply scrolling down, I found ‘healthy eating habits.†™ Lower competitionbut people aren’t paying for that idea. How about ‘how to break bad habits’: See how you can still write about what you’re interested in, but simply checking the popularity, profitability, and competition can help you refine your idea from an â€Å"I hope this works idea† to â€Å"Let’s write this book already idea!†Book Idea ValidatedOnce your book idea passes these three checkpoints, then you’re on your way to confidently writing your book. Now you have reason to believe it won’t be a waste of your time and you can proceed with more assurance that you’re writing a book that will sell.To learn more about how this product  can help you profitably launch your book to success, check out KDP Rocket here!

Poetry Research Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Poetry Research Paper - Essay Example Many of her poems reveal the various aspects of death which is personified in different semblances. Some of her poems which deal with the theme of death are â€Å"Because I could not stop for Death†, â€Å"I heard a fly buzz when I died†, and â€Å"I died for beauty, but was scarce†. A reflective exploration of the poem â€Å"I died for beauty, but was scarce† reveals the relationship between the various themes in Dickinson poetry such as death, beauty, and truth, apart from exposing the interconnection among her different poems and the common features of her poems. â€Å"Dickinson’s writing deals with all the stuff of life: nature, love and death, time and eternity. She treated these themes in a manner all her own: often with humor and playfulness, but also with seriousness and sensitivity.† (Borus, 44) In the poem â€Å"I died for beauty, but was scarce†, Dickinson deals mainly with death in connection to other major themes of her po etry, such as beauty and truth. Both themes are closely connected and the poet personifies them as â€Å"brethren† and â€Å"kinsmen†, who are buried in â€Å"adjoining† rooms. The use of parallel language to express the experience and goals of both the characters also suggests the connection between the two themes. It is important realize that both the speakers die ‘for’ either beauty or truth and ‘for’ refers to ‘in the cause of’. These themes are connected to death, which is the ultimate reality for all human beings, as both the speakers were not able to achieve their goals, beauty and truth. A careful reader straightforwardly recognizes that the poet is concerned with â€Å"the relationship between human mortality and the ideals of Truth and Beauty. Both of these ideals occupy an exalted place in Dickinson’s universe; both are eternal and exempt from analysis.† (Leiter, 94) The use of the word ‘faile d’ is greatly suggestive as it gives the reason for their death. â€Å"He questioned softly why I failed? / â€Å"For beauty,† I replied. / â€Å"And I for truth,--the two are one; / We brethren are,† he said.† (Dickinson) Therefore, it is important to maintain that Emily Dickinson associates beauty and truth in this poem, and presents death as the ultimate reality in life. In a reflective analysis of the poem â€Å"I died for beauty, but was scarce†, the interrelation among Dickinson’s various poems becomes palpable. Mainly, this interrelation is evident in the themes she deals with in her various poems. For example, death is one her favorite themes and she deals with this theme in her various poems such â€Å"Because I could not stop for Death†, â€Å"I heard a fly buzz when I died†, and â€Å"I died for beauty, but was scarce†. Many critics consider death as the touchstone for the poetry of Dickinson and she regarded death as the ultimate reality which reveals the exact nature of God and the state of the human soul. In the poem â€Å"Because I could not stop for Death†, death is personified as a gentleman caller or suitor who takes the poet with him and they pass different places and stages of life. Death in the poem â€Å"I heard a fly buzz when I died† is presented as painless although its vision is horrifying. Therefore, it is important to recognize that the different poems of Dickinson are interconnected on the basis of common elements such as themes. A profound analysis of

Television Incorporated and Face Validity Case Study - 91

Television Incorporated and Face Validity - Case Study Example Jack makes a decision to reduce some of her duties so that she can resume to her normal level of success but things get worse with so many tasks left undone. The person job fits and placement are applied in this case as we see Ada performing so well in her tasks in the first few months before she is overcome with the work overload that she initiated by requesting more tasks from Jack. Face validity is a form of validity that is used to determine if a measure has given the expected results in regards to what it was supposed to measure. In this case, face validity was used to make decisions in various instances. First, Jack is able to pick Ada among the applicants since her credentials show that she can fit in the job of an administrative assistant. Second, Jack used face validity to summon Ada and reduce her duties and responsibilities since he notices the gradual change in how Ada is performing her tasks. The steps in validating a selection device include observing the behavior of an employee and noting whether he or she is performing tasks as allocated. If there is a gradual change as seen in the case of Ada, get concerned and seek to get a solution to the problem. If multiple predictors are used it becomes easier to make a decision that is in line with the firm or organizational goal. Jack has applied predictors in such a case to handle the case related to Ada. The compensatory approach seems to be ineffective here since Ada is not ready to let off some duties even after Jack noting that she is not doing well in her tasks. In addition, after Jack reduces her workload, it becomes worse than it was before as Ada is unable to perform her tasks Validity generalization would not be appropriate for jobs at AAA television. It is clear that there are many tasks associated with AAA television and they are interrelated. If one employee slows down, the rest are affected.

Depression in Women Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Depression in Women - Essay Example THE symptoms may not seem overly serious at first. Perhaps a person suffers from fatigue, stomach cramps or chest pains. He may find himself waking up at wee hours of the morning for no apparent reason; or the trouble may be difficulty in getting to sleep. Possibly a change in appetite has led to weight loss; or maybe the problem is overweight due to a sudden splurge of eating. Fatigue, physical pains and change in eating or sleeping habits can constitute what doctors call the somatic mask of depression.(McClelland, 2008, 64) What is depression Why does it afflict people Everyone feels 'down in the dumps' on certain occasions. This should not cause alarm, for off days of this type are not what doctors mean when they speak of depression. According to studies, humans when they are afflicted with depression usually loose their essence and realization for the real reasons of living. It could be observed that many among the depressed ones are subjected to situations of failure, feeling of helplessness and the lost of physical energy to face life and enjoy life at the same time. (Amunts, 2008, 15) Loosing these particular elements in life, some depressed individuals resort to suicide simply to end the agony that they are experiencing. A depressed person finds it difficult to perform even the most routine tasks, such as getting dressed, brushing teeth, preparing breakfast and making routine decisions. The third level, where no one can doubt that you're dealing with depression says Yomasue (2008) "is when somebody literally sits in a corner-almost paralyzed-looking into space." (13) Doctors often speak of depression as either acute or chronic. (Wang, 2007, 65) Acute depression sets in from some external cause, such as the death of a loved one, divorce or some other severe loss. Depending on the seriousness of the cause, acute depression may last weeks or even months; but then it disappears. On the other hand, in chronic cases the crippling effects of depression persist month after month. (Amunts, 2008, 54) Another type of sufferer is the manic-depressive. This person seesaws between a "manic" (from manikos, Greek for "mad") state and one of depression. During a manic state, the individual becomes overactive, impulsive, often disorderly in speech and thinking.(Croissant, 2008, 34) Then follows a "normal" period, after which he plunges into depression. Some remain in the manic state most of the time, with only brief low periods. Others are just the opposite, remaining depressed most of the time. And there are those who, for the most part, remain on an even keel except for brief ups and downs.(Liu, 2008, 54) In this study, an understanding of the major issues concerning gender differences on depression occurrences among individuals shall be discussed carefully so as to understand or at least clarify the issues on the claim that women are actually experiencing depression twice as much as men. Explaining the key reasons for this particular matter is the focus of this particular literature-based understanding. Some Common Causes of Depression How widespread is serious depression According to Dr. Nathan S. Kline of the New York State Department of Mental Hygiene, "it has been estimated that 15 per cent of the adult population of the United States has some degree of depression which is serious enough to be in need of treatment.(Yomasue,

Swot Analysis Of Country Oman Finance Essay

Swot Analysis Of Country Oman Finance Essay The UAE has achieved stable progress over the past three decades to emerge as a important global player in both the  political and the economic position The tremendously fast rate of economic growth until 2008 was due to the constant demand  for oil, in addition they a move their focus to a number of non-oil sectors. The UAE had maintains a dynamic political ties up with over  60 countries, mainly in Europe and Asia. The UAE is considered to be one of the foremost political forces in the Middle  East and is a member of a number of regional organizations, including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Arab  union and the Organization of the Islamic Conference. Under the control of former President Sheikh Zayed, the UAE transformed from a nation of large-scale poverty  to a highly developed and wealthy country. With the death of Zayed in 2004, his son, Sheikh Khalifa, immediately took  over as president. Although the government structure in the UAE is not democratic, both Zayed and Khalifa have  bear the responsibility of retain the countrys development. The government has constantly received appreciation  for its efforts to creating business opportunities in Oman. The countrys tax rule is also considered among  the best in the world for businesses. The UAE market is capable to with a well-built telecommunication network and, as a  result, the countrys IT market is slowly becoming competitive. However, the level of science education remains low. The  country has a strong integrated environmental development program. Its ecological procedures are integrated with the  Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) program, which is par t of business practice in the UAE. PESTEL ANALYSIS OF OMAN COUNTRY http://www.free-power-point-templates.com/articles/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/pest-diagram-ppt-template-543450.jpg (Sources: www.google.com) INTRODUCTION PESTEL stands for Political, Economical, Social, Technological, Environmental and Legal. It is used to describe an analysis that determines the opportunities and risks of global growth. It is also termed as a PEST or PESTLE analysis. Political, Economical, Social, Technological, Environmental and Legal issues differ from one country to another. As a company looks to influence the advantages that the democratization of technology, information and finance, and grow beyond the national borders that previously controlled them, it is necessary that they consider a PESTEL analysis to accompany their SWOT analysis. The PESTEL analysis provides a strong outline which is used by global and multinational firm to set the stage to develop specific strategy to ease the risks involved in carry out their vision in new environments. This PEST country analysis report on Oman provides a holistic view of the country, with understanding analysis of current and future issues, supplemented with significant quantitative data to support trend analysis. FEATURES AND BENEFITS Following are benefit that business will gain if they implement pestle analysis in their planning process: Useful to know political environment: It is helpful to understand the political system in Oman through examination of key factors in the country and governance indicators. Useful to know economic situation: It is useful to understand the economic situation in Oman through a balanced evaluation of core macroeconomic matter. Useful to know demographics analysis: To understand the customer demographics in Oman through analysis of income distribution and the rural-urban split, as well as healthcare and education. Use to evaluate technology advancement: It is use to evaluate the technological background in Oman through analysis of related laws and policies, as well as patent data. Useful for controlling changes: By making effective use of PEST Analysis, it makes sure that it has united positively with the forces of change that are affecting the world. Good use of PEST Analysis helps to avoid taking action that is meant to failure for reasons beyond control. Helpful to know about new country or region: PEST is useful when we are start operating in a new country or region. Use of PEST Analysis helps to break free of lifeless assumptions, and helps to quickly adapt the reality of the new environment. HIGHLIGHTS The political landscape section discusses the evolution of the political scenario in Oman, as well as the countrys economic, social, foreign, and defence policies. The section also discusses the countrys performance according to World Bank Governance Indicators. The economic landscape section outlines the evolution of Omans economy, as well as the countrys performance in terms of GDP growth, composition by sector (agriculture, industry, and services), fiscal situation, international investment position, monetary situation, credit disbursement, banking sector, and employment. The social landscape section analyzes the governments social welfare policies, as well as the countrys performance in terms of healthcare, income distribution, and education. REASON TO USE PESTLE SWOT ANALYSIS Following are the main reason for using pestle swot: Useful to formulate goal: Strategic management is an essential aspect of managing modern businesses that involves forming goals and implements the programs that fulfil those goals. Useful to intact environmental scanning: Environmental scanning is a component of strategic management where mangers study various economic, political and social factors that might affect the business. It is helpful to small business also: It can help small businesses to identify intact markets and avoid costly mistakes. Small businesses can better compete by using these critical tools to assess opportunities and challenges. It is useful to manager for conducting an effective business: SWOT analysis and PESTLE analysis are two common strategic management equipment that the help managers brainstorm and organize their ideas during the environmental scanning process. It is broad wider concept: A main reason companies use both SWOT and PESTLE is because these tools offer broad and efficient analyses of key areas of a strategic plan. SWOT is an acronym that stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. PESTLE has wider coverage of business and external issues, including political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental factors. POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT IN OMAN http://www.oxberryrisk.com/Images/political_risk_analysis.jpg INTRODUCTION OF THE SECTOR The stability and structure of a countrys government gives a basis to understand future changes in the regions political environment. Policy at the local or federal level can differ significantly. Political power in Oman is dominated by Sultan Qaboos ibn Said Al Said who is responsible for all major decision-making and government actions. Decision-making authority rests with the Sultan with contribution from his advisors, the appointed Majlis al-Dawla and members of Omans leading merchant families. Succession is a key risk concern. Sultan Qaboos has dedicated himself for promoting the countrys reconstruction, economic diversification as well as continued political stability. A process of limited elected reform has been in progress over the last several years including the introduction of direct elections for members of the counselling assembly in 2000 and universal suffrage in 2003. In recent October 2007 elections, Oman records a strong 68% voter turnout. While Oman is gradually moving forward on political liberalization efforts, the Councils role remains largely advisory. Following is the political structure of Oman country: POLITICAL STRUCTURE MONARCHY Head of State Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al-Bu S aid Council of Ministers Composed of  the Sultans Advisors State Council (Majlis al-Dawla) 57 Appointed tribal and religious leaders Consultative Council (Majlis al-Shura) 84 member Elected body with advisory functions Major Parties Illegal Last Elections Consultative Council October 2011 THE MONARCHY The Sultan is a direct heir of Said bin Sultan, who had first opened relations with the  United States  in 1833. The Sultanate is neither political parties nor governing body, although the bicameral representative bodies provide the government with advice. The present Sultan has no direct heir, and has not publicly selected a successor. Instead, the ruling family should generally select a new Sultan after his death. If they do not select a new ruler after three days, then they open a letter left to them by the late Sultan, containing a proposal for a new Sultan. Current Sultan of Oman, Majesty Sultan  Qaboos  bin Said Al Bu Said holds an unexpected amount of power. Along with his position as Sultan, he is prime minister, defence minister, finance minister, foreign affairs minister and chair of the central bank. Moreover, Qaboos has only a few family members in his cabinet and the offices they hold are considered quite powerless. His cousin Hay him for example, is minister of national legacy and culture while his uncle, Shabib is special advisor for environmental affairs. This style of control has suggestion as none of his family members have gained the necessary managerial skills to rule Oman after Qaboos death. JUDICIAL SYSTEM The court system in Oman is regulated by Royal Decree 90/99. There are three court levels in Oman; the Elementary Court is the lowest court, followed by the Court of Appeal, and then the Supreme Court as the highest court in the country. In addition to this there is an Administrative Court that looks into cases made against the government. GOVERNMENT ATTITUDE TOWARDS FDI The government keenly support foreign direct investment into the country to increased employment opportunities for Omanis. Omanisation allowance are currently in force for six industries in the private sector, i.e. the transport, storage and communications sector at 60%,finance, insurance and real estate at 45% and industry at 35%. Authorities created the Omani Centre for Investment Promotion and Export Development (OCIPED) in 1997 with the aim of providing foreign investors with a one-stop-shop for licensing and registration procedures. Judicial transformation is in progress and the court system is considered largely fair. Corruption level are low by regional standards and do not act as a significant obstacle to foreign investment. LAND OWNERSHIP In Oman the regulation for land are expected to be less because the minister wants to increases the opportunity for tourism. The Ministry of Housing, Electricity and Water may grant permission to a company or a foreign national the Right to use a certain property for operations that promote the economic development of Oman. INCENTIVES Government incentives to promote local and foreign investment include tax exemptions; the provision of industrial plots in industrial zones for nominal charges; preference in the allocation of government land; interest-free or subsidized loans with longer terms for repayment; reduced charges for water, electricity and fuel; financial assistance for the development of economic and technical possibility studies; and the accelerate arrangement of immigration visas and permits for foreign workers. GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS AND POLICIES A foreign national desire to engage in a trade or business in Oman or to acquire an interest in the capital of an Omani company must obtain a license from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. In general, the ministry grants a license if the paid-up capital of the Omani company in which the investment is made is at least Rs 150,000 (US$ 390,000) and if the foreign ownership of the company does not exceed 49%. The Social Security Law requires private-sector employers and their Omani employees to pay monthly contributions to an insurance fund for old age, disability and death benefits. Oman does not impose personal income tax. Income tax is levied on people that are wholly owned by Omani nationals, entities with foreign participation, branches of foreign companies and Omani sole proprietorships. All companies incorporated in Oman irrespective of the extent of foreign ownership and branches of companies registered in the other member states of the Gulf Co-operation Council (Bahrain, Qa tar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates) are taxed at a rate of 12%, for income exceeding RO 30,000. A single tax rate applies to branches of foreign companies, at rates ranging from 0% to 30%. Petroleum companies are subject to tax under specific provisions and rates. Omani sole proprietorships are taxed at a rate of 12%.The Omani Labour Law requires employers to pay end-of-service benefits to expatriate employees. FOREIGN INVESTMENT With the exemption of certain restrictions on the foreign-currency holdings of  commercial banks, Oman does not impose exchange controls. In general, Oman does not restrict the transfer of funds overseas of equity or debt capital, interest, dividends, branch profits, royalties, management and technical service fees, and personal savings. RESTRICTIONS ON FOREIGN INVESTMENT The Foreign Capital Investment Law (Royal Decree No. 102 of 1994) governs foreign investment in Oman. If the foreign body want to invest in Omani companies they must file applications for licenses with the Ministry of  Commerce and Industry. The ministry grants licenses to applicants if   both of the following conditions apply: The paid-up capital of the Omani company in which the investment is made is at least Rs.1, 50, 000(US$390,000). The foreign ownership of the company does not exceed 49%.The Ministry may exempt the following entities from the licensing conditions : Companies conducting business through special contracts or agreements with the government; Companies established by Royal Decree; and Parties conducting a business that the Council of Ministers declares necessary to the country. TAX EXEMPTIONS In Oman tax is exempted from corporate tax and customs duty which may be granted by the Ministry of Finance. From the following activities tax is exempted such as manufacturing, mining, agriculture, fishing, fish farming, fish processing, aquaculture, animal breeding, tourism, the export of manufactured and reprocessed products, operation of colleges, universities, and higher education institutes, private schools, training institutes, private hospitals and public utilities. Exemptions are granted for five year periods effective from the date when production begins or services are first rendered; a five year extension may be granted. .Management agreements and construction contracts do not qualify for tax exemptions. Companies engaged in the activities listed above may also obtain an exemption from the payment of customs duty on exports and on imports of equipment, spare parts and raw materials. IMPORTING The import of goods into Oman requires an import license. The import of  certain classes of goods, including alcohol, firearms and explosives, requires a special import license. Goods entering Oman must have certificates of origin. Oman follows Arab boycott rules, which forbid the import of goods originating from Israel. EXPORTS Oman does not restrict exports. However, the export of items of historical value requires an export license. CUSTOMS DUTIES In Oman most imported goods are subject to pay customs duty at a flat rate of 5% on their cost-insurance freight (CIF) value. Consumer goods, including food substance are exempt from customs duty whereas alcohol and tobacco are subject to pay higher rates of duty. Goods produced within the GCC generally may be imported duty-free. In certain circumstances, Oman may allow the contractors to import duty-free equipment and materials for use the on government, PDO and OLNG projects. Since from 2005 Oman has entered into a Free Trade Agreement with the United States of  America. POWER ON THE TOURISM SECTOR The government promote foreign contribution to develop the country tourism industry. Since the mid-1980s, the government has gradually opened its desert, mountains and coastlines to foreign tourists and the Ministry of Tourism has share part in various international tourism exhibitions to introduce Oman to the world tourist trade. Due to recent changes made in visa a regulation that had increases arrival of a large number of populations which in turn are likely to increase the flow of  tourists in Oman. Due to the development of International Airport which increase the tourist probable of the country. A new Tourism Ministry was set up in 2004 to provide push to this sector. The Ministry of Tourism has free provisional tourist arrivals figures for 2011. These showed a slight decline of 1.8% in arrivals over the year to 1,427,611. In light of this to some extent unsatisfactory figure, BMI has change down its predict for tourist arrivals in 2012, believe that an increase of 10% is now the most likely outcome for the year, down from 15% previously. BMIs predict is in line with the governments outlook for the industry. ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQnKP8I_IH7yqQSamEgMPjoj-OcN1qkxFY8WKYN5xiM_sYx59qBHwTwJjP3 (Sources: www.google.com) INTRODUCTION OF THE SECTOR Omans economy is based mainly on petroleum and natural gas. With limited energy reserves, Oman has decided to expand its economy away from oil and gas production. The Oman Vision 2020 development plan highlighted the need for the Omani economy to expand its economy through a process of  industrialization and privatization. The main single industrial investment target is the port city of Sohar, near the UAE border. The government has direct with several main privatization programs, including power generation projects, and other power and water generation plan. Oman expects to triple the industrys one percent contribution to GDP and finally create over 1, 14,000 tourism-related jobs. Besides these the government had built a second airstrip and new terminal at Muscat International Airport by 2011. The government is also in the procedure of expanding its privatization efforts to its wastewater and solid waste management operation. In addition to this the Omanis aggressively marketing itself as a enchanting, environmentally aware tourist goal. The Omani government is developing a port at Duqm, an evenly populated area along the Arabian Sea. This strategy call for the construction of a dry dock facility, oil refinery, petrochemicals complex and fish processing centre to ultimately fight with Dubais Jebel Ali port complex. The Duqm development plan also calls for the construction of an airport to facilitate passenger and cargo shipments and a three-hotel tourism resort complex. MACRO ECONOMIC DATA Following is the macro data of Oman country. YEAR 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 GDP Normal GDP 309.5 36,804 4,198 60,299 46,115 56,251 61,840 Real GDP 4.0 5.5 6.8 12.8 2.0 3.6 3.8 Origin of GDP Agriculture -2.9 -4.6 4.6 0.5 1.5 1.6 1.6 Industry 5.6 -1.7 3.6 11.9 0.3 3.8 3.9 Services 6.7 12.2 9.5 1.3 1.2 3.4 3.7 Population income Population 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.9 3.2 3.3 3.4 GDP per head 20,396 21,639 22,360 24,629 22,960 23,151 23,440 Fiscal indicators Govt. Indicators 38.0 35.2 36.7 32.9 38.1 36.3 34.0 Govt. Expenditure 35.4 34.9 36.5 32.6 41.9 37.1 35.0 Govt. Balance 2.5 0.3 0.2 0.4 (3.8) (0.8) (1.0) Net public debt 4.9 3.8 3.1 2.5 5.5 4.5 4.1 Prices financial indicators Consumer prices (average, %) N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Lending interest rate (average %) 7.1 7.4 7.3 7.1 7.4 6.8 6.9 (Sources: GCC construction fact sheet) GROWTH RATE GROWTH RATE AMOUNT GDP ( APPROX) $59.946billion PER  CAPITA GDP (APPROX.) $21,646 REAL GDP GROWTH RATE (APPROX.): 7.8% The government is looking to expand the economy beyond the hydrocarbon sector, which still account for about 75% of export earnings, given the limited sector possible to force and maintain growth beyond 2020. Foreign investment maintain of natural gas projects, along with the government investments will sustain growth. Oil prices natural gas represents a small proportion of GDP and export revenues. To this end, the government is shifting its plan to aim renewable energy as a key developmental goal with hope that it will contribute about 30% of GDP by 2020. PURCHASING POWER G:images omanOman-50Rials-f.jpg (Sources: www.google.com) The inflation rate for the year ended 2010 was about 4%. This was the outcome of declining crude oil prices. The oil and natural gas being the core business of  Omanis it play an important role in determine the per capita income and their purchasing power. However, the situation is changing. There is gradual boom in the per capita income. The period of rapid growth has come to an end, and in the absence of a sharp recovery in oil prices Oman looks set to grow in the 3-4% range over the coming 5-10 years. The cost of living in Oman is high as most of the goods are imported. MINERAL RESOURCES http://www.omanet.om/arabic/economic/images/9-9.jpg Omans mineral resources include chromite, dolomite, zinc, limestone, gypsum, silicon, copper, gold, cobalt, and iron. Several industries have grown up around them as part of the national development process which, in turn, has boosted the minerals sectors contribution to the nations GDP as well as providing jobs for Omanis. The mineral sectors operations include mining and quarrying, with several projects recently completed, including: an economic feasibility study on silica ore in Wadi Buwa and Abutan in the Wusta Region, which confirmed that there were exploitable reserves of around 28 million tonnes at the two sites; a feasibility study on the production of magnesium metal from dolomite ore; a draft study on processing limestone derivatives; a project to produce geological maps of the Sharqiyah Region; economic feasibility studies on the exploitation of gold and copper ores in the Ghaizeen area; a study on raw materials in the wilayats of Duqm and Sur for use in the Sultanates cem ent industry; and a study on the construction of a new minerals laboratory at Ghala in the Governorate of Muscat. Metkore Alloys will build a world-class 1,65,000 tonnes per annum capacity ferro chrome smelter project in Oman with an envisaged investment of $80 million. SOURCE OF FUNDS AND THEIR COST Oman commercial banks are the primary source of short, medium, and long-term credit. Because there is no restriction in obtaining credit in Oman they can also obtain credit from commercial banks in the neighbouring Gulf countries. The Oman Development Bank they grant loans to small and medium-size companies, for less than Rs.2,50,000. Investors also obtain financing from the Gulf Investment Corporation located in Kuwait which is established by the GCC, is a major financial institution whose main purpose is to invest in the equity and provide loan funding to the new companies. SECURITIES MARKET The Capital Market Authority in Oman is established in 1998 which regulates the securities market. Muscat Securities Market, which began its operations in 1989, over sees the flow of funds into securities and develops the local financial market. Membership in the exchange is compulsory for Omani licensed banks, specialized loan institutions, authorized financial intermediaries, joint stock companies and Omani public authorities whose shares are registered on the securities market.   Commercial banks, joint stock investment and brokerage companies which is registered in Oman they may establish investment funds called joint investment accounts. The accounts are listed on the Muscat Securities Market and may be up to 49% foreign-owned these funds are exempt from taxation. INFRASTRUCTURE AND PHYSICAL FACILITIES The Omani government is developing a port at Duqm, which is a less populated area along the Arabian Sea. This plans call for the construction of a dry dock facility, oil refinery, petrochemicals complex and fish processing centre to eventually fight with Dubais Jebel Ali port complex. The plan also calls for the construction of an airport to facilitate passenger and cargo shipments and a three-hotel tourism resort complex. . Oman is focusing on its port infrastructure as well. Two of Omans principal ports, Sohar and Salalah, are aggressively moving forward on expansion of  their respective. To increases the tourism facilities the government will build a second runway and much-needed new terminal at Muscat International Airport in 2011, they also built a new taxiway at Salalah Airport in 2010, and new airports at Sohar, Ras al-Hadd, and Duqm. Oman is focusing on its port infrastructure as well. Two of Omans prime ports, Sohar and Salalah, are aggressively moving forward on expansion of  their respective.. Oman is focusing on its port infrastructure as well. SIZE OF MARKET In 2002, Oman attracted some 1.2 million foreign visitors; about 7,00,000 came from the GCC (GULF CO-OPERTION COUNCIL) states. And of those700, 000 tourists, an overwhelming 85 percent of them came from the UAE. For all the talk in Muscat and Salalah about bringing in European tourists, the fact remains that the bulk of the sultanates visitors come from a lot closer to home- and, of those, huge numbers are simply driving across the border for a very short-term stay. Oman has so much more to offer than the other Gulf States in terms of  culture and history. Oman offers an real Arabian experience thats not easily available elsewhere in the region. TRADE: http://www.omanet.om/arabic/economic/images/tra03.jpg (Sources: www.Omannet.Om) The Omanis have been trader since ancient times. Their transport and group carried Omani goods including frankincense, dates and limes across the seas and over the old frankincense and silk routes, encourage cultural interactions with other peoples. Today, Oman is a part of a number of economic communities including the Arab Gulf Co- operation Council (AGCC), the Greater Arab Free Trade Zone, the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IORARC) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The Sultanate has raised its laws on investment activity and has begun One Stop Shop permission facilities along with easy, transparent procedures. There is protected coordination between the bodies and authorities involved in providing services for investors, while current progress towards the establishment of e-government have led to a growing confidence on electronic channels. Commercial laws and regulations are being modernized, including the Law on Trade Marks, Descriptions, Trade Secrets and Protection against Unfair Competition, the regulation of foreign trade representation offices, the Consumer Protection Law and the Law on the Protection of Intellectual Property. Beside these measures, the country has also raised its ports and established free trade zones in all Mazyounah and Salalah. Omani goods are exported to the markets to world countries. Government authorities and departments give main concern to Omani products when making purchases and Omani goods are actively promoted in the local market through seminars and exhibitions. Broader promotion campaigns are also held in the regional and world markets, where Omani products have already begun to make their mark because of their high quality specifications. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has established a certificate by the United Kingdoms Human Investment Programme, recognizing it as an investor in human resources. SOCIO-CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT http://www.secs.unibo.it/NR/rdonlyres/3611A3BD-7B6B-4531-8AAF-181E56EBA9CE/177588/Fotolia_895776_Ometti2Cerchi.jpg (Sources: www.google.com) INTRODUCTION OF THE SECTOR Since Oman is a Muslim country, all the activities are influenced by the Muslim culture. The main characteristic of Omani culture is respect for others and it prevents others from letting their face down. In Oman the foreigners have to make sure that they dont make any unpleasant remarks in the public places. Otherwise they feel insulted and let down in the society. Language: In Oman country Arabic is local language. LIFE STYLE OF THE OMANIS: Following are key factors that determine the living style of the population in Oman. CULTURE: In order to fully understand any country culture, is very important to know because it influence society whole. In Oman Islam culture is followed by every people. Oman is the Muslim country so majority of them follows Ibrahim sect it is very conservative culture. Islam directs every part of a Muslim life, from holidays to the food they eat to how they dress and do business. Kindness, humility and respect for others are key thought which are present in both social and professional field of life. ART: Traditional handicraft such as silver and gold jewelry, goat- and camel-hair carpet, woven baskets, water jugs, weapon and khanjar, a special type of dagger etc are generally practiced in this country. Besides these, drawing, painting, photography etc are also practiced. MUSIC: Music in Oman is a vital part of art. The traditional folk songs are very popular and practiced in the country. Arabic music has left a deep influence in the Oman music. Health: Life expectancy at birth in Oman is approximate to be 74.47 years in 2012. As of 1999, there were an approximate 1.3 physicians and 2.2 hospital beds per 1,000 people. In 1993, 89% of the population had access to health care services. In 2000, 99% of the population had access to health care services. During the last three decades, the Oman health care system has established and account great achievements in health care services and preventive and curative medicine. In 2001, O

Scarlet Letter :: Free Essay Writer

Scarlet Letter For Every Action There is a Reaction: the Affects of Sin in The Scarlet Letter According to Webster ¡Ã‚ ¯s Collegiate Dictionary, sin is defined as an action that is or is felt to be highly reprehensible. The average person would agree that it is only in human nature to sin. Therefore the severity of such transgressions is diluted with that simple justification. However, the less frequently discussed and oftentimes the more important issue is the effects of a man or woman ¡Ã‚ ¯s sin. Nathaniel Hawthorne ¡Ã‚ ¯s The Scarlet Letter revolves around the single theme of the unforgivable, adulterous sin which affects Hester Prynne, Pearl, and Roger Chillingworth to their very cores. First, because of this unforgivable sin, Hester was forced to live as the social outcast for the rest of her days. Hester makes her first public appearance clad in the scarlet letter when she first emerges out of the cold dark prison. It is described as  ¡Ã‚ °so fantastically embroidered and illuminated upon her bosom ¡Ã‚ ± (37). Hawthorne continues to say  ¡Ã‚ °It had the effect of a spell, taking her out of the ordinary relations with humanity and enclosing her in a sphere by herself ¡Ã‚ ± (37). Since the scarlet letter symbolizes sin, it is the ultimate source of social isolation for her. Hester is in a sphere of her own where her sin affects her livelihood and has completely isolated her from the world. The prison marks the beginning of a new life for Hester; a life filled with coping with consequences. Guilt is a consequence of sin that Hester must endure throughout her life, which also begins to have a profound effect on her life and thinking. Then, Pearl evolved into the very manifestation of Hester ¡Ã‚ ¯s sin. Pearl is not just a passive reminder of Hester ¡Ã‚ ¯s terrible deed; on the contrary, she is active in the role of torturing her mother. From the very beginning she drives to cause Hester to suffer.  ¡Ã‚ °But that first object of which Pearl seemed to become aware was--shall we say it?--the scarlet letter on Hester's bosom! ¡Ã‚ ± (66). This small movement of the baby ¡Ã‚ ¯s hand causes immense amounts of pain in Hester. Then, when Pearl is older she  ¡Ã‚ °she amused herself with gathering handfuls of wild-flowers, and flinging them, one by one, at her mother's bosom; dancing, up and down, like a little elf, whenever she hit the scarlet letter ¡Ã‚ ± (67). Hester begins to wonder if Pearl really is a demon ¡Ã‚ ¯s offspring  ¡Ã‚ °through the agency ¡Ã‚ ± of her sin.

Colonial period from 1607 to 1750 Essay

During the colonial period from 1607 to 1750 an â€Å"American† way of life emerged, differing from Old World European culture. This new lifestyle developed from the interaction of five major groups, including the; Native Americans, Chesapeake colonies, New England colonies, Indentured servants, and African slaves. Each of these peoples contributed ideas, principals, practices, and beliefs to the melting pot that would later become the United States of America. Native Americans had a significant impact on Europeans as early as America’s discovery in 1492 (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 14), during which time, the Columbian Exchange occurred. This initial exchange had a larger influence on Native American life than European, as the Old World explorers introduced diseases to which the Indians had no natural immunity (Yazawa, Melvin 46). According to Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey (15), in the Centuries after Columbus’ landfall, as many as 90 percent of the Native Americans perished. When Europeans returned to America in the 1600’s to develop permanent settlements, Native Americans reintroduced to them planting techniques and crops, such as corn and tobacco, that would revolutionize the early colonies economies and diet allowing them to grow and flourish and making them an important aspect of â€Å"American† culture (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 15). Additionally, Native Americans shared in the celebration of the first Thanksgiving with the Plymouth pilgrims (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 52), a holiday still important and beloved today. Later interactions between the Native Americans and Colonists were mainly hostile, as a result of the European’s insatiable land-lust, evident in such conflicts as the Pequot War (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 52). The aid Native Americans provided to early settlers allowing them to sustain themselves would result in the downfall and destruction of numerous Indian tribes, who had already dwindling populations as a result of European diseases (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 31). However, conflict forced Native Americans to band together, displaying a way in which Europeans shaped Indian history in America as well (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 32). The Chesapeake colonies were another group that largely influenced the development of the â€Å"American† culture. Virginia was the first colony; founded in 1607 by a joint-stock company hoping to find gold and a passage through America to the Indies (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 28). This company, named the Virginia Company of London, received a charter from the King for a settlement in the new world (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 28). This charter was important to the formation of an â€Å"American† pride. The document guaranteed the New World settlers would be guaranteed the same rights of Englishmen at home. However, this document later fueled the colonists desire for independence from their intrusive and controlling mother country (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 29). The introduction of tobacco to early settlers played a large role in the growth of the Chesapeake colonies, especially Virginia. In fact, tobacco growth was so important to colonists they threatened themselves with starvation by choosing to plant the cash crop over food crops (Wheeler and Becker 29). Without tobacco’s economic contribution to the survival of Virginia, contributions made by the colony might not have been made. Virginia’s House of Burgesses was the first representative legislative assembly in British North America (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 33). This was the first of many parliaments to emerge in America, justifying the efforts of the Colonists to eventually breakaway from British rule, as they believed themselves fit to oversee their own nation. The other Chesapeake colonies also contributed to the formation of a uniquely â€Å"American† way of life. Maryland, founded in 1634 (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 33), was haven to Roman Catholics seeking refugee in the new world. Without a place for this minority religion to survive, it might not have been sheltered in the new world. The Carolinas were composed of large expanses of open land, resulting in a large plantation agriculture system in the south (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 38) that resulted in the use of indentured servitude and slavery throughout southern America. However, the colony founded last in 1733, Georgia (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 38), slowed the immediate development of slavery in the Chesapeake colonies. As Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey stated, Georgia was a religiously tolerant settlement, which was slavery free until 1750. The New England colonies were formed largely so those settling in the colonies could be free of religious persecution, especially in Massachusetts Bay (Wheeler and Becker 30). According to Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey, The Mass. Bay colony was formed in 1628 (37), although the puritans who merged into the Massachusetts Bay colony from Plymouth arrived in 1620 (37). The Pilgrims who arrived in Plymouth influenced â€Å"American† ideals of freedom from oppression, through the Mayflower Compact. This document became quintessential to the creation of later constitutions. It was an agreement to form a crude government and submit to the will of the majority ( Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey). The Massachusetts Bay colony contributed early concepts of a liberal government to America. Local affairs and issues were eligible for discussion by a large percentage of adult men, and voting was completed by majority rules (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 47). However, religious leaders held significant power in the lives of the settlers, influencing the beliefs of those residing in the Massachusetts Bay colony. As a result, those threatening Puritan views such as Anne Hutchinson and Roger Williams, were banished (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 48). This was actually advantageous for the development of a diverse American culture, as those forced outside of Massachusetts Bay moved to more accepting colonies, such as Rhode Island. Rhode Island was a region of varying religious beliefs and ways of life as there was a lack of religious oath or taxation present in so many of the other colonies (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey). The Dutch contributed names and settlers to the renamed New York colony after it was surrendered to the Duke of York in 1664 (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey). Pennsylvania, founded in 1681 according to Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey (60), was home to the passive Quakers. Pennsylvania influenced American ethnicity, as the colony attracted people of various backgrounds (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 61). Indentured servants played a large role in the growth of an American lifestyle. Prior to the popularity of slavery in the South, colonies such as Virginia and Maryland utilized indentured servants to tend large plantations (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 33). Indentured servants supported the cash crops that helped the early colonies thrive financially, without which finances, the colonies might not have survived (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 67). Once indentured servants had completed their terms, they became freemen, but remained much in the same position as before. They were penniless and searching for land and a job. These freemen also contributed to a rebellious and headstrong American people, willing to fight for what they believed in. During Bacon’s Rebellion in 1676, a group of young freemen led by Nathaniel Bacon attacked Indians near jamestown in retaliation of Indian attacks on frontier settlements (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 68). African slaves during the colonial period influenced the development of the American way of life. Due to economic change in colonies in the 1680’s (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 70), it was financially possible for plantation owners in the south to purchase African slaves as opposed to using indentured servants. Additionally, by 1662, distinctions between a white indentured servant and african slave were made in Virginia (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 72), which made blacks and their children the property of their white masters for life. African slavery in America made it possible for southern plantations to truly develop, at the cost of a people’s rights. African slaves were subject to a plethora of harsh conditions, including harsh hours and intensive labor in the blistering heat (Kennedy, Cohen, and Bailey 72). This resulted in a large part of American economic success being reliant on the exploitation of a group of people. The American way of life developed as a result of the interaction of numerous groups including the Native Americans, the Chesapeake colonies, the New England colonies, the Indenture servants, and the African slaves. Native Americans contributed staple crops which would support the early settlers and modify the American diet permanantly. Chesapeake colonists, although originally settling the America’s in order to attain wealth, found a permanent home that they would later fight to rule. The New England colonists wrote up the Mayflower compact, a primitive agreement which would inspire later constitutions. The indentured white servants led to the eventual treatment of people solely as property in the case of African American slaves after indentured servitude ended. Slavery would prove to be a social barrier and issue for numerous years to come, as africans struggled to acquire the same rights as granted to white citizens.

Ðœedical model of disability Essay Example

ÐÅ"edical model of disability Essay Example ÐÅ"edical model of disability Essay ÐÅ"edical model of disability Essay Today, the debates about people with various disabilities can be seen to have concentrated around two main departure points: the social and the medical models of disability. Considering the latter point first, it is likely to say that in the traditional style, particularly in UK society, disabilities have been seen as individual medical tragedies (Shakespeare 1993) in which the body and mind are considered as simply failing to meet normal standards of ordinary people. The hypothesis here is that the body of person with disability can be cured by largely medical treatments and technologies. The medical model of disability then is considered as a mechanism by which person with mind and body differences has been categorized by UK legislation and is especially associated with the development of medical science. In recent years, however, disability legislation has put forward a new social model of impairments which endeavours to address these issues, and which has been closely related to political fights for civil rights. At the heart of the new social model have been new definitions of impairment and disability. This work will evaluate the view that UK disability legislation reflects a medical model of disability and assess the current government response towards meeting the needs of people with a disability. To understand this policy, four points need to be considered: the dominant definition of disability, the association of disability with health and able-bodied people, the more important disability policies that have been legislated in the UK, such as the Disability Discrimination Act. Professional definitions of disability vary and generally reflect the diversity of interest in this particular policy area. Psychologists and educationalists consider disability in terms of intelligence testing, while health care workers such as nurses, physiotherapists or occupational therapists associate disability with environmental and physical barriers to performing daily living skills. Oliver (1996) provides a definition of disability that contains three elements: the presence of an impairment the experience of environmentally imposed restrictions self-identification as a disabled person. Disability as an issue of social policy is concerned with all that disables, injures or physically handicaps. This definition in reality provides only a minimal interpretation of the real extent of disability. A disability can range from mild to severe and can be emotional, physical or intellectual. The person with a disability can be a child born with cerebral palsy, a teenager paralysed following a road traffic accident, a mother suffering the severest effects of rheumatoid arthritis or an older person with Alzheimers disease. Interest in disability issues began with the medical professions in the 18th century and gradually philanthropist reformers of the 19th century became more prominent. In the 1970s the disability rights movement, led by disabled people, transformed the traditional perception of the disabled community. They pressured for a change in the focus of services for disabled people and demanded equal access to all aspects of society as a fundamental civil right. The net effect of the movement has been a set of public policies known as disability care policy (Redman 1993). The general public was surprised when, during the 1970s and 1980s, it became clear that there were militant persons with disabilities demanding equality of rights as citizens. Before this the general public assumed that disabled people were either incapable of organised concerted political action or else were content with their lot in terms of welfare and voluntary support. It appeared that if an individual had a problem, then society assumed that professionals (doctors, nurses, social workers) would satisfy her needs. Disability groups wished to highlight the fact that they did not want this form of service to be the only option (Oliver 1996). People with a disability are not a homogenous group. Their strengths and weaknesses differ widely and individual needs vary in complexity and require different kinds of help. In spite of these differences, all disabled people will have an interruption in their pattern and quality of life. If the disability becomes permanent it will cause additional disturbances in relationships and activities. Furthermore a person classified as disabled faces common social problems of stigma, marginalisation and discrimination in many areas of their daily living (Blaxter 1980, Hahn 1993, Szymanski Trueba 1994). Most models that address the needs of disabled people associate the nature and extent of their problems with the limitations that exist as a consequence of disability. The models focus on how they are to lead a life with a physical, sensory or intellectual impairment. The medical and social care professions have been particularly prominent in developing this idea. The medical model has led society to consider disability simply within the confines of the disease process, physical abnormality or personal trauma. This model has sometimes been referred to as the personal tragedy model. This is because societys involvement has been only to express concern and sympathy to the disabled person and her family (French 1994). Within this framework two things happened. First, society was absolved from any responsibility to assist or support the disabled person. It appeared that the association of inequality and incapacity with disability was a roundabout way of blaming the disabled person for the discriminative practices rather than the rest of society. Second, this strategy failed to provide a valuable framework wherein disabled people could try to pick up the pieces and resume their life (Hales 1996). Studies into the area of disability utilise a political strategy that encourages the debate to avoid the traditional personal tragedy model of physical impairment and limitation. Instead the political strategy promotes a consideration of the economic needs of disabled people as any other minority group. For example in being able to access training, education, employment and housing. The minority group argument suggests that persistent inequalities in society relate to social attitudes and negative public policies which, according to disabled groups, are the principal causes of problems for disabled people. It also attempts to reduce the social effects of disability, including the way disabled people interact with the able-bodied population and the negative attitudes that continue to persist (Hahn 1993). This revised political strategy has removed the functional limitation argument with some degree of success. Society now accepts that disabled people are the same as any other minority group who have to face prejudice and discrimination. Within the medical model a boundary exists that separates services that are provided by either social care or health care services. It is an area of professional and policy tension, particularly in the area of caring for people with disabilities. The boundary is not a single element but a series of overlapping differences. These include areas such as payment for care, the nature of care and responsibility between various professional groups. Health care tends to have a high social status because of its link with the medical profession and high tech interventions that promote curing. In contrast, social care has a low status because it appears to be an area from which medicine has, to a certain extent, withdrawn. Social care is considered low tech and includes people with a disability for whom there is little prospect of significant improvement in terms of a cure. In a survey carried out by Thorne (1993) on people with chronic disabilities, she describes how hospital staff gradually distanced themselves from patients. The staff used a range of strategies as a mechanism for withdrawing any long term responsibility for them. These include extended appointment dates, displaying a reduced optimism for progress and referral to support social care services (Thorne 1993, Twigg 1997). Although the person with a disability may initially feel rejected, in the longer term it can be a positive move. It also reflects the wishes of disability groups. They contend that within the social care parameters new relationships can be formed with a focus on empowerment and independence. For a long time disabled groups have expressed concern about the over-medicalisation of what are essentially life problems. This view is supported by critics of excessive health care interventions. They suggest that when this occurs individuals tend to transfer onto health care staff the responsibility for many of societys problems (such as loneliness, family disharmony or isolation). Fox (1990) argues that, as a result of technological progress, people living in the UK unnecessarily defer health care issues to health care professionals. The criticism is not of the technology but its effect on our view of health as something that we depend on experts and machines to provide for us. Social problems are very sensitive for the individual concerned. When this sensitivity combines with the high value that society places on health care it creates an unnecessary demand for health care. This is a demand that in the public mind only health care staff can solve. This is a form of imperialism which is very difficult to oppose. This has perpetuated the mystique of health care and further reduces the potential for society to take responsibility for meeting the needs of people with disabilities. The United Kingdom, along with the rest of Wester Europe, has in recent times had to face the problem of large numbers of people becoming unemployed. The social welfare response can be categorised into three groups: work-based interventions which provide opportunities for further training and branching out into a new career unemployment benefit which provides an income for those in between jobs disability benefit that provides a secure income for those so limited through their disability that they are unable to work. The structures for Disability Working Allowances are described in the Disability Living Allowance and Disability Working Allowance Act 1991. Disability Living Allowance is the main source of income for people who have either a physical or psychological disability. To receive this allowance the disabled person must need attention or supervision from someone in order to meet their daily needs. It is a tax free benefit and is additional to other benefits that the disabled person may receive. Disability Allowance consists of two components: one for care needs and one for mobility and individual needs. This benefit replaced Mobility Allowance and Attendance Allowance (for those aged under 65 years) in April 1992. There are a number of physical needs that entitle a person to the care component of the Disability Living Allowance. Lord Denning, in the Court of Appeal, gave a list of bodily functions that includes difficulty with: breathing, hearing, eating, walking, sitting, sleeping and eliminating (Davis 1996). The list does not include cooking, shopping or any of the other things that a member of the household generally does for the rest of the family. There are two key factors about the payment of Disability Allowance. First, disabled people receive payments for potential risk as well as an actual risk of injury. For example in the case of people who have epilepsy, much of the supportive care is potential in that they need assistance only when a convulsion occurs. Second, assessment focuses on the needs of the claimant irrespective of whether supervision already occurs. Thus someone who is not supervised but needs to be would receive benefit whereas someone who is supervised, but does not need to be, would not qualify. Disabled people receive Disability Working Allowance if they are in low paid work. This allowance permits disabled people to participate in work and remain part of the community and avoid the isolating effects of their disablement. At the same time they avoid being penalised financially. There are two distinct types of disability organisation, both of which evolved around the end of the 19th century. These are organisations of disabled people and organisations for disabled people. The control and management of organisations of disabled people is firmly in the hands of disabled people, whereas able-bodied people manage organisations for disabled people. The original organisations of disabled people in the United Kingdom were the British Deaf Association (founded in 1890) and the National League for the Blind (founded in 1898). Organisations for disabled people tended to hold the same political ideals as their sister organisations but were more influential in attracting financial and political support. They usually arose following a disaster or period of political turmoil. The Royal British Legion was a good example. It was set up to meet the needs of those injured and left with long term disabilities following the two great wars. Another similar support group appeared in the early 1960s to help those affected by the drug Thalidomide, prescribed by doctors for women during pregnancy as an antiemetic. As everybody knows, the drug caused catastrophic physical damage to unborn babies. There is similarity in the goals of the disability movement and other minority rights groups. Disabled people are striving to find a social order of equality that engages ideas of acceptance and tolerance. At the same time, underlying the debate, all minority groups accept that they are different and therefore need different treatment (for example, disabled people require structural changes to buildings). The paradox lies in the fact that disabled people require both equality and difference. They need equal treatment most of the time but in special circumstances, where they are genuinely different, they need special provision. The first attempts at putting antidiscrimination legislation against disabled people on to statute began about 1979. The Committee on Restrictions Against Disabled People considered a range of societal factors that created barriers for disabled people. The first of the reports 42 recommendations proposed that there should be legislation making discrimination illegal and that this should encompass every aspect of society (education, employment, transport and services). The delay in the publication of the report coincided with a change in government. As a result the issue was shelved, in spite of the fact that 1981 was set aside as an International Year for Disabled People, in which people with a disability were supposed to receive a special focus in terms of government policy. Nevertheless the momentum and pressure for change in the law increased and eventually resulted in the passing of Disability Discrimination Act 1995. The government recognised that disabled people were discriminated against in that they received different treatment to other people, particularly in areas such as housing, training, education and employment. Frequently the cause of this discrimination was related to either prejudice or a failure by those in authority to discuss the matter with the disabled person. It was simply assumed that an individual could not carry out a particular task or use a particular service. The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 began by redefining disability as a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long term adverse effect on a persons ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Under the law discrimination is said to occur when (Davis 1996): a disabled person is treated less favourably than someone else the different treatment is for a reason relating to the persons disability there is no legitimate justification for different treatment there is a failure to make a reasonable adjustment for a disabled person The Act applies to people with a substantial and long term physical, sensory or emotional disability. Severe disfigurement is also classed as a disability. People who have a disability and people who have had a disability in the past but no longer have one are both covered by the Act. An example of this second group could be people who have in the past suffered from epilepsy. There are a few circumstances in which it is not possible to treat disabled people as favourably as others. They include circumstances of either health and safety or where a person cannot understand the nature of a contract because of their disability. If, however, it is proven that the person is not a health or safety risk or does appreciate the nature of a contract then it is considered to be illegal if they are treated differently. The law does not prevent disabled people being treated more favourably in certain circumstances. For example if a professional football club wished to provide sideline positions for wheelchair bound people it would be able to do so. Similarly, cinema owners may continue to offer hearing impaired people front stall seats at the same price as more expensive seats in other parts of the building. The Disability Discrimination Act has tried to undermine the dominant medical model and its definition of disability and the provision of care within that philosophy. Out of this discontent a new social model has evolved that rejects the singular focus and responsibility of disability on the affected individual. It does not attempt to deny the existence of disability but relocates it within and as a part of society. Within the social model it is not individual limitation that is the problem but societys failure to adapt and move towards providing services that adequately meet the needs of disabled people. The Disability Discrimination Act attempts to disentangle the disempowering elements of the medical model of disability and replace it with a social or collective responsibility strategy. It has two objectives. First, it wishes to reduce the negative features traditionally associated with being disabled. As a replacement it supports new ideas of inclusiveness and integration, where disabled people avoid marginalisation and are made to feel a part of society. Second, the model would like to adjust the negative attitudes of society so that, on the one hand, disabled people will be able to enjoy equal rights and privileges, and, on the other hand, accept their responsibilities to contribute and play their role as good citizens. The Disability Discrimination Act brought in new rules that aim to end the discrimination that many disabled people have faced in the past. The Act gives disabled people new rights in the areas of employment, accessing services and buying or renting land or property. The Act requires schools, colleges and universities to provide specific information for disabled people. It allows the government to set minimum standards so that disabled people can use public transport more easily. In addition, it requires the setting up of a National Disability Council to advise the government on the need for policy changes or of any potential for discrimination against disabled people. The law places a significant responsibility on employers. Following the implementation of the Disability Discrimination Act, it will be illegal to treat a disabled person less favourably than someone else because of their disability, without good reason. This applies to all aspects of employment matters, including selection, interviewing, recruitment, training, promotion and dismissal. Furthermore, employers must look at and make changes that could possibly affect the potential recruitment of an individual with a disability. In so doing it is argued that the employer will be able to recruit the best person for the job irrespective of the presence of any form of disability. The law also signalled the end of disabled people registering their disability and the quota system that previously existed. The law affects anyone who provides any goods or service to the general public. This could range from buying a drink in a pub, eating out in a restaurant or doing the weekly shopping in the supermarket. It will be against the law to refuse to serve anyone because of their disability. It will also be illegal to offer a disabled person a service that is not of the same standard as would be offered to everyone else. For example it will be unlawful to ask someone with a hearing problem or disfigurement to sit in a special place in a restaurant. The government anticipates that in time all disabled people will have full access to all forms of public transport. This will include buses, coaches, trains and aeroplanes. The government believes that, for example, all people who use wheelchairs will be able to hire a taxi in the street or at a rank, the same as everybody else. The National Disability Council is responsible for advising the government on all issues related to the employment and training of disabled people. The main objective of the council is to eliminate and reduce the incidence of discrimination against disabled people. The council also has a monitoring role in terms of the full implementation of the Act and has to produce a report each year. The report, which will go before parliament, will outline the activities it has engaged in throughout the preceding year. The council also advises the government on the need for further policy change if this is necessary. Before advising the government they are expected to have carried out an audit and costing of the net effects of implementing their advice. In addition they should have consulted with other relevant bodies that have an interest in the matter that is being proposed. The council is composed of between 10 and 20 members appointed by the Secretary of State for Social Security. The membership must appreciate the needs of disabled people; have a disability; or have experience of business, industry or the professions. Most curricula for health care professionals have expanded to be more inclusive of diverse elements in society. Some of the more common themes pursued by undergraduate programmes address the experiences of different countries health and social care services; the experiences of women; ethnic problems and racial problems. Disability debates rarely achieve the same degree of intensity as these, even though there are far more people with a disability and more diverse needs than other minorities. Some specialised public policy programmes mention disability in the context of health issues, or education, or long term care for the elderly for example. They do not, however, consider disability in the context of civil rights nor do they address the spectrum of need between, for example, those people with physical or learning disabilities. There is a necessity to rethink both the idea of employment and the idea of disability with the purpose to refigure the debate over the disability-employment relation. Legislation has not only to find a sufficient route that deals with the underlying socio-economic cause of disabled peoples exclusion from employment, but also needs to include the experiences and issues of being a disabled person in or out of work. The social model has become central for a useful social and political campaign, most importantly considering the idea of what is a normal person in society and making a difference between impairment and disability. References Blaxter M. (1980). The meaning of disability, 2nd edn. Heinemann, London. Davis K. (1996). Disability and legislation: rights and equality. In: Hales G (ed) Beyond disability towards an enabling society. Sage, London. Fox R. C. (1990). Training in caring competence in North America. Humane Medicine 6(1):15-21. French S. (1994). On equal terms: working with disabled people. Butterworth Heinemann, London. Hahn H. (1993). ‘The potential impact of disability studies on political science’ (as well as vice-versa). Policy Studies Journal 21(4):740-751. Hales G (ed) (1996). Beyond disability towards an enabling society. Sage, London. Oliver M. (1996). Understanding disability from theory to practice. Macmillan, London Redman B. K. (1993). The process of patient education. Mosby, London. Shakespeare, T. (1993). Disabled peoples self organisation: a new social movement? , Disability, Handicap and Society 8:249-64. Szymanski E. M, Trueba H. T. (1994). ‘Castification of people with disabilities: potential disempowering aspects of classification in disability services. ’ Journal of Rehabilitation 60(3):12-20. Thorne S. (1993). Negotiating health care: the social context of chronic illness. Sage, Newbury Park, California. Twigg J. (1997). ‘Deconstructing the social bath: help with bathing at home for older and disabled people. ’ Journal of Social Policy 26(2):193-210.