The Sociological Imagination Of Individual Problems Sociology Essay

The Sociological Imagination Of Individual Problems Sociology Essay This assignment will explore C. Wright Mills concept of a sociological imagination when looking at the problems of the individual, and explain how this theory might assist social workers. It will then look at a contemporary social problem encountered by social workers, in this case poverty. It will explore and discuss by reference how three sociological theories (Marxism, Feminism and Functionalists) offer useful insights into the socially constructed nature of poverty. C. Wright Mills (1916 62) had a vision of reforming society and popularising sociology with his theory of the sociological imagination, Slattery (1991). Leon-Guerrero (2005:2) explains The sociological imagination links our personal lives and experiences with the social world. It is the ability to look further than the individuals personal issue, recognising and linking macro scale environmental factors (economic, political and other societal institutions). Mills (1959:12) argued that this theory à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ is the idea that the individual can understand his own experience and gauge his own fate by locating himself within his period, that he can know his own chances in life by becoming aware of those of all individuals in his circumstances. Mills is supported by Cunningham and Cunningham (2008) who argue, instead of focusing on the individuals inability to cope as the main problem; step back and look at the bigger picture. Cunningham and Cunningham (2008) support this by using a n example of someone experiencing depression post redundancy. They argue that instead focusing on the individuals failure to cope; the problem could exist due to social structures within the macro environment, such as, current economic or political conditions. Cree (2000) adds that the failure by social workers to make such links will result in oppressive practice. Additionally, Cunningham and Cunningham (2008:7) argue learning to think sociologically is one of the most important skills a social worker can bring to their practice as it enables social workers to step back from taken for granted assumptions about social life and to critically unpack these assumptions (2008:7). This is further supported by Leon-Guerrero (2005:14) By continuing to develop a sociological imagination and recognising the larger social, cultural and structural forces, we can identify appropriate measures to address these social problems. In summary, the sociological imagination is able to assist social workers by allowing them to reject common sense explanations for the consequences of social actions. It enables practitioners to develop skills which help them to work in an anti-oppressive manner. Fundamentally, it helps distinguish between individuals private problems and wider social problems; one cannot be properly understood without the other. The contemporary social problem to be discussed is poverty, as this an ongoing social issue that is common amongst service users. Consequently, a large amount of social work practice takes place around poverty. This is supported by Smale et al (2000:18)  Those who use, and are required to use, social work services continue overwhelmingly to be poor and disadvantaged. Social workers have been criticised for their lack of knowledge surrounding poverty. Cunningham and Cunningham (2008:32) who argue The relationship between poverty and social work is not new, yet it is one that remains understated and implicit in social work training courses and practice. Becker (1997:114) claims Social workers have little understanding of the complex processes that generate and maintain poverty; they have limited insight into how their political and welfare ideologies and attitudes to poverty affect their daily practice with poor people; they have failed to place poverty on the agenda for social work theorising, education, policy and practice. Krumer-Nevo et al (2009:225) (16/12/09) takes this further, arguing despite the profound commitment of social work towards people living in poverty, the social work profession has failed to develop practice based on awareness of poverty. Sociologists have favoured two definitions of poverty; these are Absolute and Relative poverty. Giddens (2006) suggests the concept of absolute poverty is grounded in the idea of subsistence the basic conditions that must be met in order to sustain a physically healthy existence. People who lack these fundamental requirements for human existence such as sufficient food, shelter and clothing are said to live in poverty. Relative poverty emphasises the disparities within society. Leon-Guerrero (2005:224) refers to this as a situation whereby some people fail to achieve the average income and lifestyle enjoyed by the rest of society. Leon-Guerrero (2006) suggests that the construction of social problems arise from social conditions that lead to negative consequences for both the individual and the social world. Moulder (2000:2) claims sociologists came to define social problems as problems that concern large numbers of people, have social-structural causes, and require social-structural solutions. Poverty has many negative factors that affect individuals and society, this is supported by a report conducted on behalf of the Department of Work and Pensions called Living with Poverty (2009:10) (2310/09), which claims the impact that poverty can have on peoples lives shows that the experience of poverty is almost always overwhelmingly negative, and can have psychological, physical, relational and practical effects on peoples lives. These findings are supported by Beresford et al (1999). For a social problem to become defined as an actual problem it must have both objective and subjective realities. The objective reality comes by acknowledging that a social condition does exist. Leon Guerrero (2006) states A social condition does not have to be personally experienced by every individual in order to be considered a social problem. The objective reality of a social problem comes from acknowledging that a social condition does exist. Poverty can be seen through media, charities campaigning to help the less privileged in Britain and even on the streets in the forms of homelessness and big issue sellers. A report by Hirsch (2008) (3/12/09) estimated that child poverty costs around  £25 billion a year in losses, stating Child poverty imposes huge costs on those affected but it is also costly to us all. This suggests everyone is affected by poverty, as taxes are used to eliminate poverty. According to the report Poverty and Wealth across Britain 1968 to 2005 (1997:14) Ove r the past 15 years, more households have become poor, but fewer are very poor. Although the number of extremely poor has decreased there was still a systematic rise in poverty defined as breadline poverty. A report by Kempson (1996:1) (3/12/09) further identified that One in four of the British population live in homes with less than half the average disposable income. This report also identified issues that showed people living in poverty were suffering from a variety of shortcomings including poor health, underprivileged housing, and unemployment. A subjective reality addresses how a problem becomes defined as a problem, Leon-Guerrero (2005:6). This is through powerful groups who look at tackling such problems, such as, government and media. This process is what is known as social construction. Giddens (2006:154) Rather then assuming that social reality objectively exists, social constructivists work to document and analyse the processes through which social reality is constructed, such that the construction then serves to confirm its own status as social reality. Poverty has been termed a social problem in society by the UK government. The Department of Work and Pensions (2009) have clearly stated The Governments target is to halve child poverty by 2010 and be on the way to eradicating it by 2020. This message is supported and reinforced through various forms of media and charities who work towards this goal. Leon-Guerrero (2005:6) in discussing social problems states they become real only when they are subjectively defined or perceived as problematic. This assignment will now explore functionalism, Marxism and feminist theories in relation to poverty. Functionalism was developed by Emile Durkheim (1858-1917).Leon-Guerrero (2005:10) asserts Functionalists use a macro perspective focusing on how society creates and maintains social order. According to Durkheim, society can be viewed as an organic object; every aspect of society is co-dependant and contributes to society as a whole. Cunningham and Cunningham (2008:12) uses a biological analogy to explain functionalism Just as biologists understand the ways in which different bodily organs such as the heart, the brain, the kidneys, the lungs and so on, perform a specific function to keep the human body alive, so with society, its different components work in harmony with one common end à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ . The body is termed as whole organism with each function depending on the other to ensure healthy functioning. In social terms these organs can be used to describe social institutions and the relationship they have with different institutions. Slattery (1991:63) also uses a similar anal ogy to describe this theory: It functions like any other natural organism as a system of independent parts the economy, the family, the government and so on held together by not a central nervous system but a central value system, a set of sociological guidelines called norms based on underlying moral consensus, or collective consciousness. Giddens (2006:21) states Functionalism emphasises the importance of moral consensus, in maintaining order and stability in society. This is achieved through shared values and beliefs, learned through socialisation. Social control is desirable and change tends to be seen as disruptive. Social problems are seen a result of deviance; this is due to lack of conformity, failing to conform to the norms of society. Acknowledging that poverty does exist within the social structure, functionalists believe that poverty is a beneficial function to society. Leon-Guerrero (2005:228) argues that Functionalists observe that poverty is a product of our social structure he further adds that poverty is seen as a natural consequence of system stratification. This refers to technological advances which have left behind a workforce of unskilled workers. This theory implies that inequality is both natural and essential, as it provides an incentive for people to work harder and better themselves. This is s upported by Davis and Moore (1945) who argue, social inequality is thus an unconsciously evolved device by which by which societies ensure that the most important positions are conscientiously filled by the most qualified persons cited in Best (2005:9). Poverty is regarded on a macro scale in terms of the benefits it provides for society as a whole, rather than for the individuals in poverty. It would provide jobs for those who are tasked to alleviate such problems such as social workers. Theresa Funicello (1993) cited in Leon Guerrero (2005:230) observes The poverty industry once again substituted its own interests for that of poor people. Parsons (1953) backs this up, arguing à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ that lack of equality of opportunity would clearly have an impact on an individuals opportunity to make a contribution to the organisation or the wider social system cited in Best (2005:27). H. J. Gans (1971), argued that poverty exists because it is functional for society, cited in Leon Gurre rro (2005:228). Gans (1971:2-4) (18/10/09) claimed the existence of poverty ensures that societys dirty work will be done, and poverty creates jobs for a number of occupations and professions that serve or service the poor, or protect the rest of society from them. Furthermore the poor can be identified and punished as alleged or real deviants in order to uphold the legitimacy of conventional norms. Gans believes poverty will be eliminated only when it becomes dysfunctional for the affluent or powerful, or when the powerless can obtain enough power to change society. In summary, Functionalists seem to justify the social status quo and the effects of poverty on individuals/society. The poor are seen as less able and deviant as they do not conform to societys norms. Taking into consideration the current economical state, the recession has lead to unemployment, forcing more people into poverty; functionalists would agree that institutes were not working together, and that this was just a temporary problem. The role of a functionalist social worker would be to support deviant service users back into societys norms. The ideas of Karl Marx (1818-93) contrast sharply with those of Comte and Durkheim, but like them he sought to explain the changes that were taking place in society during the time of Industrial Revolution, Giddens (2006:14). Marxism is a conflict theory, and like the functionalists they too view society on a macro scale. However, Marxists argue that society operates in a permanent state of conflict at all levels as a consequence of the clash of interests between two classes (bourgeoisie and proletariat). Leon-Guerrero (2005) suggests that conflict theorists believe poverty exists due to class division in society; it helps those in power to maintain and expand their position leaving little to share with others. Marxists would argue that poverty is caused by capitalism, which concentrates wealth in the hands of the ruling class. According to Best (2005) the bourgeoisie were the owners of capital (rich) who employed the proletariat, who had only their labour to sell (poor). Marists bel ieved that the bourgeoisie exploited and made profit from the proletariat by not paying them full value of their work. By accepting a low wage is creating a conflict of interest, as one social group is benefiting on the back of another social group. Giddens (2006:16) argues that the conflict occurs due to inequalities between the classes, The relationship between classes is an exploitive one, since workers have little or no control over their labour and employers are able to generate profit by appropriating the product of workers labour. In an article Poverty in the Big Issue, Searing (2007) claims poverty is structurally constructed as a result a modern capitalist society. Poverty and inequality seem to be an intrinsic part of modern capitalism. She argues This Labour government, by continuing the neoliberal, modernising agenda of the previous government, regards poverty and inequality as the inevitable price to be paid to maintain competitiveness in the global economy. Searing (2007) also believes that social class plays a big part in society, arguing Social work may endorse anti-oppressive ideas but class inequalities, which give rise to and perpetuate income inequalities, remain as wide as ever. Clearly, anti-oppressive practice is at its weakest when it comes to the issue of class. Furthermore, she asserts that The social class a child is born into is a major determinant of their life chances. Searing (2007) argues that the UK government chooses to minimise the part played by social and economic factors, outside the control of the individual, in causing poverty and implies that in most cases personal inadequacy is at the root of peoples failure to remain independent and self-supporting. In summary, Marxists believe that the source of poverty lies within societal structures and the existence of poverty are beneficial to the ruling class. As long as there is poverty, capitalism will exist. Cunningham and Cunningham (2008:22) state as a Marxist social worker you would help people to adjust to their difficulties, by providing services, or a listening ear; and in doing so, structural problems become individualised with attention shifted away from the real cause. This is backed by Payne (2005: 231) who suggests that social workers are seen agents of class control enhancing the oppression by capitalist societies of the working class. They simply enable the capitalist system to reproduce itself in the next generation by helping people to cope with the difficulties of the system. There are different views of feminism. Dealamont (2003:17) identifies three feminist perspectives, liberal, Marxist and radical, all of which were developed in the early 1970s. Chafetz (1988) cited in Dealamont (2003:18) argued that all feminist theories were defined so that gender is a central focus where gender is systematically related to social contradictions, inequalities and pressure points, additionally it can be used to challenge, counteract or change situations in which women are devalued or disadvantaged. This is supported by Trevithick (2005). Feminists would argue that women are more likely to experience poverty than men due to their disadvantageous position in society, Taylor (2002:179). Neubeck and Cazenave (2001) agree, arguing that the government is moving towards maintaining a patriarchal society where the male continues to dominate the welfare policy. Moore (1998:27) asserts Majority of people in poverty are women and the economic and welfare systems conspire to keep them there. They argue that the government Need to recognise this and alter the system to give woman the chance to escape from poverty. Furthermore, feminists argue that women earn less and have less sexual power in society. Glendinning and Miller (1995) agree with these arguments stating women are more likely to live in poverty because they are seen as secondary workers whose main role is seen as domestic. Additionally, More women than men rely on benefits as their main source of income; lone parents are vulnerable to poverty, and a large majority are women. The majority of pensioners are also women cited in Haralambos and Holborn (1995:145). During the early 1970s the media and government created an image of women where they were portrayed to be abusing the welfare system, aimed at mainly single mothers these women were believed to be having more children to avoid having to work and gain more financial benefits (Leon-Gurrero 2005). Feminists theories of poverty tend to highlight that women are overly represented in figures of poverty. This is because of their weaker position in society, their weaker economical position. Moore (1998:70) argues that the proportion of children and population living in poverty are likely to be women, as they form the majority of the elderly, the disable, single parents and the low paid. If you look at benefits figures it shows the vast majority of people claiming benefits in this country would be women, because they head single parent families and women tend to earn less. This is supported by Moore (1998:70) who states, As single parents, women are unable to work. So statistically in old day s, women were more likely to encounter poverty. Moore (1998:71) states Since the 1970s there has been a rapid increase in the number of lone-parent families in the UK. Additionally, Today, more then one in every six families is headed by a lone mother. This is caused mainly by the growth in the divorce rate and by the increase in lone parenthood (that is women having and raising children on their own). These arguments are supported by an article by the BBC News website (2008) Womens low pay behind poverty, which argues 40% of households are now headed by single mothers, and this has concerning implications for tackling child poverty. Moreover, The TUC said that mothers were being trapped in part-time, low-paid jobs. More than 75% of part-time workers were female. The gender pay gap for full-time workers was 17.2%. It further adds that Women in Britain were more likely to be poor than others in Europe from the moment they conceived. Haralambos and Holborn (1995:145) support this, arg uing household incomes are not distributed equally. Women tend to have smaller independent incomes than men and there is no guarantee that they will share fully the income of their husbands or partners. Moore (1998:70) argues that the proportion of children and population living in poverty are likely to be women, as they form the majority of the elderly, the disable, single parents and the low paid. Radical Feminists argue that women form the majority of the poor because they are restricted by family as It is generally regarded as the womans role to take primary responsibility for the care of their family Moore (1998:95). They see the nuclear family as a major contributor towards womens oppression. Both Giddens (2006) and Haralambos and Holborn (1995:592) support this argument stating the family is often seen by radical feminists as the key institution producing womens oppression in modern societies. Radical feminists also argue political and economic power is in the hands of men. As a result of this, decisions about economic matters, as well as about issues of health and welfare, reflect the interests of men, and may well harm women. This situation of male power is known as patriarchy, Moore (1998:23). This is supported by Leon-Guerrero (2005:230) who claims Feminist scholars argue the welfare state is an arena of political struggle. The drive to maintain male dominance and the patriarchal family is assumed to be the principal force of shaping the formation, implementation, and outcomes of the U.S. welfare policy. Radical Feminists believes that poverty is caused by gender, men forever superior and women relentlessly submissive. Regrettably with the perpetual fragmentation and modification society is experiencing this theory is old-fashioned. Relationships are not always, heterosexual and same sex relationships have been thriving. However, Liberal feminists would agree with radical feminists that the role of the nuclear family is repressive towards woman, but they argue that patriarchy is not the cause of womens oppression. This is supported by Giddens (2006:468) who claims liberal feminists look for explanations of gender inequalities in social and cultural attitudes. Additionally Cunningham (2008:97) also states that liberal feminists believe that the roots of womens oppression lie with the irrational prejudice, stereotyping and outdated attitudes and practices that lead to sex discrimination occurring in all spheres of life. Furthermore, Giddens (2006:470) suggests liberal feminists tend to focus their energies on establishing and protecting equal opportunities for women through legislation and other democratic means. Liberal feminists work to bring about change through legislation, such as, equal pay act as opposed to radical feminists who try to defeat the system. Finally, Cunningham (2008:99) states that liberal feminists argue Women lose out on the ability to develop their talents; business loses out because it fails to harness the potential and ability of 50% of the population, and men lose out because they are denied the opportunity to develop close ties with their children. This assignment has explored Mills theory of a sociological imagination and how it may assist social workers when considering the problem of an individual. Furthermore, it has looked at how three different sociological theories can offer useful insights into the socially constructed nature of poverty. It will now focus on the impact of these theories upon social work practice. Sociologists have made a significant contribution towards the understanding of poverty, through their theories. Mills (1959:8) stated Social work is fundamentally about values and about value-judgements. Sociological knowledge can provide us with a framework for anti-discriminatory, anti-oppressive practice, by giving us the analytical tools with which to begin to explore the relationship between individuals and society Mills theory of sociological imagination is one which does not have a bias and can be applied readily to any case. This theory enables social workers to see the bigger picture and protect service users against anti-oppressive and anti-discriminatory practice. Cree (200:5) argues that this is the reason social workers need a sociological imagination. Moreover, Cree (200:209) argues that sociological theories do not provide all the answers to social problems but, the questions themselves lead to the potential development of sensitive, anti-oppressive practice. Sociology theories inform social workers of differing views on the existence and continuation of poverty. The contribution of liberal feminists has raised positive awareness that changes in the social structure can bring about positive chance in the social structure. Giddens (2006:26) states What sociology gives is as an awareness of cultural differences that allow us to see the social world from many perspectives. Giddens (2006:27) asserts that There is often a connection between studying sociology and the prompting of a social conscience. This is supported by Cree (2000:7) who argues sociology offers social work the opportunity to explore meanings beneath taken-for-granted assumptions about behaviour, action and social structure. It offers a knowledge and value base which is not rooted in individual pathology but instead seeks to understand individuals in the context of the broader structures that make up their lives (including social class, gender, age, race, and ethnicity) and th e historical movement within which they are living. Additionally, Domenelli (2002:4) asserts Social workers have a responsibility to challenge this grotesque image of poor people and, besides bringing to public notice the strengths of those who battle to transcend social exclusion, to work to empower those who are engulfed by the weight of circumstances in which they are embedded. Moreover, Promoting social justice and human development in an unequal world provides the raison dà ªtre of social work practice, and is a key way of discharging societys contract in assisting vulnerable people in its midst. In order for practitioners to practice anti-oppressively, Cunningham and Cunningham (2008:48) suggest a task-centred approach. This offers a very practical model which is potentially very empowering. Dominelli (2002) agrees with this approach, arguing that social workers and service users should work together to achieve positive change. Additionally, Cunningham and Cunningham (2008:4 8) argue Practice is based on the premise that the service user will work in partnership with the social worker and learn new methods that will equip them in the future. In this sense, workers could adopt a very practical way to address some aspects of poverty. They further suggest that this still doesnt go far enough, as this method of practice is based upon an individual approach and doesnt address the bigger picture. Possibly combining task-centred working with other more radical methods of working might address this. Thompson (2006:26) asserts In order to understand how inequalities and discrimination feature in the social circumstances of clients, and in the interactions between clients and the welfare state, it is helpful to analyse the situation in terms of three levels. These three levels (P,C and S) are closely interlinked. This is further supported by Cree (2000:208) who confirms that inequality and oppression exist at both individual and structural levels. Therefore its i mportant for social workers to understand this model as it provides grounds for challenging inequalities. Trevithick (2005:284) supports this, arguing this approach emphasises the importance of social, economic and political solutions to social problems, thereby shifting the onus of blame from the individual without denying responsibility. In summary, by developing and using our sociological imagination and being aware of theoretical perspectives and approaches to practice, ensures the necessary steps to guard against anti-oppressive and anti-discriminatory practice. WORD COUNT: 2200

Essay on the Myths of the African American Woman in Song of Solomon :: Song Solomon essays

Defying the Myths of the African American Woman in Song of Solomon    Throughout slavery, myths were created that tainted the image of the African American woman. These myths promote the misconceptions that African American women are promiscuous and are virtually useless. These myths caused these women to be degraded in the eyes of others as well as themselves. In Toni Morrison's Song of Solomon womanhood is defined in ways that have destroyed these myths. Womanhood is defined according to one's sexuality, spirituality, beauty, identity, relationships, and motherhood.    Song of Solomon begins with one of the most arresting scenes in our century''s literature: a dreamlike tableau depicting a man poised on a roof, about to fly into the air, while cloth rose petals swirl above the snow-covered ground and, in the astonished crowd below, one woman sings as another enters premature labor. The child born of that labor, Macon (Milkman) Dead, will eventually come to discover, through his complicated progress to maturity, the meaning of the drama that marked his birth. Toni Morrison''s novel is a romance of self-discovery, a retelling of the black experience in America that uncovers the inalienable poetry of that experience, and a family saga luminous in its depth, imaginative generosity, and universality. It is also a tribute to the ways in which, in the hands of a master, the ancient art of storytelling can be used to make the mysterious and invisible aspects of human life apparent, real, and firm to the touch.    Milkman's independent aunt, Pilate, serves as the best but not the only example of the retention and use of African ways and culture. Pilate is seen as a conjure woman and this fact is made evident by her unnatural birth and the distinguishing feature of being born without a navel. This sets her apart from the rest of the community giving her almost immediate supernatural status. Not only can she be seen as a conjure women she should also be seen as a keeper of African cultural ways. She proves to be the the strength and preservation of her heritage and culture. Pilate in keeping with the African Spiritual culture seeks to repair the relationship of Macon and Ruth at Ruth's request. So with this knowledge gained from what seems, another world source, Pilate gives to Macon's wife Ruth a greenish powder to put in Macon's food to induce him to become sexually active with Ruth again.

A Comparison between Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich and James Joyce’s Araby

One day in the life of Ivan Desinovich by Aleksander Solyztien is story of a hero’s quest of survival in a hostile environment. The novel is a very detailed and graphic description of one man’s struggle in a Stalinist work camp. It is the story of Ivan Denisovich, also called Shukhov, and his determination and strength to endure the hardships of imprisonment and dehumanization. The story takes place in a Russian prison camp after World War II. Ivan Shukhov Denisovich, the main character, is sentenced to a prison camp after having been a prisoner of the Germans during the war.The camp conveys a hopeless situation that only human integrity can overcome. : Araby by James Joyce is a romantic quest about a young boy who falls in love and pursues his quest of bringing something for his loved one from a place he thinks to be exotic and unexplored. On comparing these two literary works, there are some similarities as well as differences. Even though both the literary works are different kinds of quest, One day in the life of Ivan Desinovich being a survival quest and Araby being a romantic quest, both bear similar elements that define a quest.Firstly, the protagonists in both literary works are heroes and exceptional beings who have struggled courageously. Secondly the protagonists undergo through the process of mental transformation and death and rebirth of self. The only difference is that One day in the life of Ivan Desinovich is a dull and depressing novel about a prisoner who struggles to survive whole Araby is refreshing and joyous story about an innocent child’s first love. Both literary works bear some similar quest elements and also differences. The essential element of a quest is the hero and his conflict.Heroes are those who have found or done something beyond the normal range of experience and it takes action for a cause greater than oneself and are motivated by some kind of ideal or a reasonable thought. This element is apparent in bot h works. Firstly, Ivan Desinovich can be called a hero as who has survived for many years in the camp or gulag without losing mental balance and self respect. This is an unusual achievement as it is difficult to preserve sense of humanity and self-dignity which Shukhov has achieved, unlike others who have become savage.Such was Shukhov’s sense of pride and self-respect who would â€Å"never lower himself like that Fetiukov, he would never look at a man’s mouth. †(p 22) Secondly, the protagonist of Araby is a kid who falls in love with a girl and desires to explore the exotic location called Araby. This is also an unusual thing as this is the first the protagonist goes to a journey without any past experience and imagines the place to be really exotic and having a magical enchantment.This is evident when the protagonist expresses his feelings and imagination by saying, â€Å"The syllables of the word Araby were called to me through the silence in which my soul l uxuriated and cast an Eastern enchantment over me. †Thirdly, the protagonists in both the novels are motivated in a certain way. For Shukov, this motivation was the need to go home and help the family as the narrator says â€Å"His wife's dearest hope was that when he got home he would keep clear of the kolkhoz and take up dyeing himself.That way they could get out of the poverty she was struggling against, send their children to trade schools, and build themselves a new cottage in place of their old tumble-down place†( pg 129). The child in Araby however, is strongly movitated by promise he made to his loved one to bring something and is greatly enthusiastic when the author says â€Å"I had hardly any patience with the serious work of life which, now that it stood between me and my desire, seemed to me child's play, ugly monotonous child's play. † Another element of a quest is that the hero undergoes mental transformation.In this process, the old ideas and think ing of the hero disintegrates and he begins to view life with a new perspective. This process helps the character heavily in maturing him/her. The protagonists of the two literary works also find themselves changed and possessing a new attitude. Firstly, Ivan Desinovich change of the habit of planning ahead is indicated when the narrator says During the years in prison Shukhov had lost the habit of planning for the next day, for a year ahead, for supporting his family.The authorities did his thinking for him about everything—it was somehow easier that way† (pg 122). Secondly, in the narrative Araby, a small child’s innocence and love is killed and replaced by vanity, anguish and anger. The innocent child who imagines sweet day dreams about love surprisingly says â€Å"Gazing up into the darkness I saw myself as a creature driven and derided by vanity; and my eyes burned with anguish and anger. In this way the reader can see that both the protagonists go through the process of mental transformation where their premature ideas about love, old notions and opinions are replaced with more mature conclusions and realistic as well as a serious perspective for life. Differences also exist as far as the plot and the mood of the works are concerned. Although these literary works contain similar quest qualities, there are some differences that draw a line between the two.Firslty Even though the novel One day in the life of Ivan Desinovich gives the readers a strong message about preserving self dignity, it remains a dull and depressing novel whereas Araby generates a healthy response and attitude from readers as it contains innocent and lively story about a child’s first love which the readers also identify with. One day in the life of Ivan Desinovich is a dull novel because it makes the readers aware of the physical and mental tortures on prisoners. Secondly, Araby gives the readers a happy impression with the theme of love of a young boy.The audience identify with the condition and the protagonist’s idealization about the lover and this keeps them indulged in the story which is completely contradictory with the theme of a prisoner’s life where the reader is faced with a complete alien as well as a cruel environment. Thirdly, In Ivan desinoich, the author uses characterization, motifs and figurative language to express the dehumazing environment of the gulag whereas in Araby, the author uses personification and characterization to show the contrasting happy and flowering mood.In One day in the life of Ivan Desinovich the author uses motifs of evil by institutions such as â€Å"Come on; paw me as hard as you like. There’s nothing but my soul in my chest. † Pg 25 and â€Å"‘No one would care if a prisoner froze to death, but what if he tried to escape? † Pg 38 and also charactherization such as ‘all his longing was concentrated in that fag-end [of the cigarette] –which meant more to him now, it seemed, than freedom itself: but he would never lower himself like that Fetiukov, he would never look at a man’s mouth’ Pg 22.In Araby, however the author James Joyce uses personification such as â€Å"My body was like a harp and her words and gestures were the fingers (pg 182 1st para last line)† trying to show the reader the happy mood and idealization by the protagonist. Thus differences result in the different moods of the novel. Both the literary works thus follow the direction of a hero’s quest. Even though both follow different type of quests, there are some general similar quest elements such as presence of a hero who is an exceptional being, mental transformation of this hero and certain motivation of the hero for quest.While the protagonist in One day in the life of Ivan Desinovich struggles to survive in an inhuman environment, protagonist in Araby aims to explore an alien market in order to bring something for his lo ved one. One day in the life of Ivan Desinovich therefore, is a survival quest whereas Araby is an romantic quest. However, their themes contrast drastically. While One day in the life of Ivan Desinovich offers depressing and serious story, Araby is about first love. In this way, both literary works bear certain similarities and differences.

Pete Rose Essays

Pete Rose Essays Pete Rose Essay Pete Rose Essay Kuruc 2 Pete Rose got his start as a major league baseball player during a Spring Training game in 1963 against the Chicago White Sox when a second baseman named Don Blasingame pulled his groin muscle, and Rose was put into the game as his replacement. Upon appearing in another spring training game against the New York Yankees, Pete was issued a walk and proceeded to sprint to first base instead of the usual slow trot down the baseline after a walk. Yankee player Whitey Ford gave him the nickname â€Å"Charlie Hustle†, almost mocking Rose upon seeing the play unfold. It is possible that the mocking tone of the name is the reason that Rose adopted the nickname and used it as a badge of honor throughout his playing career. Pete Rose finally made his Major League debut on opening day on April 8, 1963. Rose was held hitless for the first couple of games until April 13. Against the Pittsburgh Pirates and pitcher Bob Friend, Rose collected his first Major Le ague hit, a triple. Rose went on to log 4,256 hits in his illustrious playing career, retiring with the all-time hits record in the MLB, a mark that stands to this day. Personally I picked this topic because my father would always talk about Pete Rose when we talked about baseball since Rose had such great intensity and energy as well as his keen ability to get a hit whenever the team really needed it. He was also a key piece of the Philadelphia Phillies teams during his tenure with the team from 1979 until 1984. During Rose’s time with the Phillies he helped lead the team to three division titles and two World Series appearances including the 1980 season in which the Phillies captured the World Series in six games over the Kansas City Royals. My father not only grew up in Philadelphia but his father and my grandfather actually worked for the Phillies as a ticket taker. This link to the Phillies certainly enhanced my father’s love and passion for the 1980 team and Pete Rose especially Kuruc 3since he watched

Creation of Pakistan

Creation of Pakistan The partitioning of the Indian subcontinent led to the foundation of Pakistan as a predominantly separate state for Muslims and established a sectarian boundary with the Republic of India, which became predominantly Hindu.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Creation of Pakistan specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The main explanation for the creation of Pakistan was the need to protect the Muslims form oppression and discrimination they faced as a minority group in predominantly Hindu regions, and provide an environment favorable to the practice of Islam. Pakistan inherited a system of governance based on the British legal code that had been in force during the colonial regime. The adoption of the Objectives Resolution in 1949 marked the onset of the transformation of Pakistan into an Islamic state because the resolution led to the inclusion of Islamic laws and teachings in various aspects of implementation of future laws in Pakistan. Another major undertaking that encouraged the transformation of Pakistan into an Islamic state was the declaration of Islam as the official religion in 1956 based on the consideration that a significant percentage of people in Pakistan practiced Islam (Cohen 41). Furthermore, the creation and adoption of the first constitution of Pakistan provided a foundation upon which an Islamic state could thrive. The constitution describes the structuring of the Senate and National Assembly and creates slots meant for representatives of women and minority religious groups.Advertising Looking for essay on international relations? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In this regard, unlike during the era of the Muslim League, where accommodation of other religious groups was minimal, all-inclusive systems are evident in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan as parliament made a consideration for minority religions and allowed f ree practice of other religious beliefs. The analysis of the evolution of Pakistan from a Muslim state to an Islamic state requires an understating of transformations in the form of governance and restructuring of institutions based on the Islamic religious law. The aspect of Pakistan being an Islamic state is evident in the purpose of its initial leaders to seek for the creation of a predominant Muslim state and the reign of Mohammed Ali who was the president of the Muslim League, which largely supported the division of the state of Bengal based on religious lines (Jaffrelot 137). While the Indian National Congress (NIC) opposed the creation of regions based on religion, the Muslim League sought to establish a system that would safeguard the rights of Muslims. As the rift between INC and the Muslim League increased, as evident by the failure of the two groups to join against the British in the 1930s, leaders of the Muslim League embarked on plans to establish a Muslim state. The pu rsuit of a separate Muslim state led to the eruption of sectarian civil conflict in India that pitted Hindus against Muslims and remained unresolved despite the calls for an untied India by Lord Louis. To end the conflict that was spiraling out of control, Lord Louis agreed to the demands of the Muslim League and formed two separate states.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Creation of Pakistan specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Despite the relationship in various aspects of a Muslim state and Islamic state such as the dominance of Islamic laws and teachings, the characteristic of Pakistan as an Islamic state started to emerge with the incorporation of Islamic law within the structure of the parliamentary democracy in Pakistan. In this regard, democratic electoral institutions and the existence of popular sovereignty in Pakistan highlight the features of an Islamic state. Cohen, Stephen P, The idea of Pakistan, Washing ton, D.C.: Brookings Institution Press, 2004. Print. Jaffrelot, Christophe, A history of Pakistan and its origins, London: Anthem, 2004. Print.

Final Exam Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Final Exam - Essay Example For instance, Paley advanced the company’s business plan by improving its associate relationships where unlike its rival NBC who paid affiliates for every sponsored show they carried out, CBS gave out its sustaining programs free of charge as long as the station could run each sponsored show; hence increasing the number of affiliates and as well as the company’s profits. Prior to increasing the number of its affiliates and making profits, CBS also transformed its presentations by inventing a system for color television, an aspect that made the company progress by acquiring many viewers (Hart, 2004). In addition, Paley changed the general perspective of the recording industry, filmmaking, publishing, and other sections in the media industry. Ideally, Radio was the backbone of CBS in the early 1950s and as television network gradually took over, the radio stars and programs migrated to the new medium. This was the point through which Paley changed the way he run the compa ny because the workload and responsibilities of watching over both the radio and television business and at the same time beat the rival NBC turned out to be a challenging task. Therefore, with an aim of curbing the huge tasks ahead, Paley appointed Frank Stanton to help out, while Paley concentrated on improving the new acquired television network (Rogers, 2000). The efforts evidently yielded positive fruits because Paley managed to improve the newly acquired the newly acquired television network. At this point the CEO invented the color television system and went further to improve the general television network business by erecting two towers of power where one stood for entertainment while the other tower dealt with the news. In general, CBS move from radio to television changed Paley’s personality and career because the event set a platform for him to prove his expertise in the industry; hence, ranking him among the great inventors of the modern technology. How American television has changed the way it represents women for the better in current times Unlike in the past, the current American television has changed the way women are represented because women in the past were supposed to be submissive, get married, keep a home, give birth, and look after the children while the man went out to work and dominate the society (Donaldson, 2012). However, the current woman as depicted by the television is quite different looking at the obvious example of women like Oprah Winfrey, Diane Sawyer, and Tyra Banks. The current women as represented by the American television are independent, single, and hold a strong and positive position in the society. For instance, the movies produced between 1990 to date depict women competing in the political arena and their involvement in the corporate world where they work as CEOs, the movies also show women in the battlefield as armies among other progressive posts. This means that contrary to the past where media degrade d women, it is currently promoting women personal rights and their careers (Donaldson, 2012). Prior to the current movies, the soap opera in the current American television greatly promotes women by presenting their personal issues like relationships and the domestic setting where the woman shares equal responsibilities in the society just like men. In these soap operas, the television presents educated women who choose the

Unit 1 Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Unit 1 - Coursework Example Cisco is no longer supporting IGRP because further improvements on the RIP platform were needed thus Enhanced IGRP was developed. IGRP was replaced by the EIGRP protocol. This is because there are fewer IPv4 addresses left, and IGRP assumes all element of a class belong to same subnet while EIGRP uses VLSM to maximize the IPv4 addresses left. Change of algorithm to Diffusing Update Algorithm (DUAL) used by EIGRP is also a contributing factor to the phasing out of |IGRP (Lammle, 2014). EIGRP takes features of both link-state, and a distance vector protocol thus is a hybrid dynamic routing protocol. EIGRP is event driven and routing information are sent in case of change in network or during startup. This is a link state characteristic. EIGRP also sends routing table information to its immediate neighbors, which is a distance vector characteristic (Donahue, 2011). OSPF has many advantages over EIGRP namely: OSPF is usable on a multi-vendor platform while EIGRP is a CISCO only solution which is limiting. As written by Southwick et al. (2011), SPF supports hierarchical networks while EIGRP is mostly used in flat networks and does not support scalability (p.