Batman versus Superman Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Batman versus Superman - Essay Example We can initiate the discussion by discussing Superman, also known as Clark Kent. The origins for this comic character can be described as one that has gone through considerable changes and ret-cons during its tenure however the basic essence of his origin remains similar – Superman comes from another planet by the name of Krypton in a rocket, the survivor of a apocalypse which effectively destroys his home; he was shipped off to a new destination – Planet Earth. It was here that he finds a new home for himself with a small caring family in Smallville; Jonathan and Martha Kent who long for a child and hence raise him as their own. There are several versions of the journey that Clark undertakes some talk about his ability to use his powers beginning from a very young age and hence leading to him transitioning to the young super hero, Superboy. However this version was discarded mainly because it brought up inconsistencies as far a Chronological time line was concerned. Cl ark Kent’s move into the city of Metropolis and his work as a reporter mark the beginning of his secret identity as Superman as he starts to form a line of defense against his foes such as Lex Luthor, Braniac, etc. The identity of Superman is a major source of conflict and debate for the numerous fans that can talk about a length on the topic. There are two main sides of the pending arguments; the first being that Superman is the real identity of the character and that Clark Kent can rightly be categorized as his alter ego; this being mainly justified due to this birth on another planet and his powers being innate rather than acquired during his life. On the other hand there is a considerable fan base that argues that Clark Kent only just so happens to be Superman; the primary bases for this argument being the fact that he was raised by Martha and Jonathon to be human and it was during a later part of his life that he realized that he had powers (Jacobs, 2011). Either way the re comes intersecting lines of agreement as far as Superman persistently kept his polite and meek ego adopt a pattern of behavior vastly divergent from that of Superman. As a superhero he was fearless and confident whereas Clark comes off as more clumsy and quiet individual. Clark reinforces his secret identity so firmly that he even fools the people who are close to him n his life. An excellent example is that of Lois Lane, Clark’s romantic interest and co-worker who despite working with him in such close proximity never comes to the realization that the Clark and Superman was the same individual. Showing just how effective his cover was and how great a transition the character undertakes when it comes to swapping a pair of glasses and redoing his hair. Superman’s brand of justice is an extension of his own personality where he prioritizes protecting and saving the lives of innocent victims who are in imminent peril over chasing down villains when a threatening situat ion, a crisis or an emergency unfolds. It is only after he is convinced that innocent lives are protected from danger and that everyone is safe that the will tackle the main peril at hand. Batman is a

Eradicating Cheating in the Educational System Essay

Eradicating Cheating in the Educational System - Essay Example At a very young age, the students are exposed to adult problems like facing the necessity of putting food on the table and taking care of their younger siblings. They carry the burdens of problems supposedly faced by their parents; however, due to the fact that oftentimes a father is in jail or a mother is struggling with drug addiction, the children are oftentimes faced with the very real demand that they begin to find alternative ways to earn money of their own so that they can help supplement the meager earnings of their family. With such a kind of life, the students are exposed to hardships that pressure them to cheat in order to survive in an increasingly challenging educational environment. Furthermore, in order to examine and understand the factors that oftentimes leads students to cheat in the first place. By way of perception, educators and police often consider these youths to be a mere extension of their parents; i.e. drug dealers and cheaters who are threats to the peace and order of the traditional community. They know they are selling drugs and they are watched by the requisite authorities in similar ways as are adults. Sometimes, they are also made as assets when the opportunity arises. They know they are tough so that even if they are young, they play rough with them. The children’s parents look up to them to take responsibility in their families. For instance, Michael is expected to provide for the family’s needs and in the eighth episode of season 4, he even gives his mother money instead of the mother giving him what he needs (The Wire Season 8 Episode 4 [34:37]). The familial and environmental backgrounds of the children demand them to become tough as they are and lost interest in schoolwork. However, to the teachers, the children are still children and human beings. Although most of them are failing in their classes, teachers like Prezbo do their best to seek to  continue to impart knowledge to the children in their classrooms.  

Durkheims definition of Religion Application to Political Movements Essay

Durkheims definition of Religion Application to Political Movements - Essay Example This book received great accolade because Durkheim utilized a case study of the Australian aborigines, stating that they represented the most elementary form of religion within a society or culture. According to Durkheim, religious representations such as sacred rituals come into existence when groups of people come together and such rites or rituals are aimed at bringing people into a certain state of mentality while keeping them excited. Thus, in essence, religion gave people within a society a form of identification and mark of togetherness (Allen et al, 2012, p.2). His theory on religion was founded on the fact that sociology can be explained using natural sciences as it is a scientific study and in turn it can be proven using an experiment, in this case the case study. However, science is proven using scientific facts; the same cannot be said for religion, as it would be difficult to establish any religious facts. This was the main challenge facing Durkheim as he embarked on exp laining religion (Orru and Wang 1999, p.47). Criticism of his work stemmed from the fact that his case study featured ‘primitive peoples’, whose mode of thinking cannot be equivalent to western or rational thinkers of modern times. This was overlooked, nonetheless, because of the imaginative and insightful ideas that he was able to bring to light. It has been demonstrated that there is difficulty or it is of no significance to attempt to prove that religion can indeed be studied as a science; more so, that sacred rituals are a universal concept (Allen et al, 2012, p.6). Political Movements Commonly referred to as political sociology, the study of politics suggests that political parties function in the same way as religious sects. Followers in both cases exhibit the same kind of loyalty where leaders and/or fellow followers are justified or excused for any villainous crimes committed. Another theory explored suggests that even though political parties employ rituals and symbols as modes of self-representation, they are not similar to religious phenomenon. However, they need to be explained as demagogic means needed to preserve and reaffirm the authenticity of power among masses of people. This is referred to as the crowd manipulation interpretation, where the irrational aspects of belief and faith are used in an attempt to determine the impact of politics on the masses. For this reason, politics is termed as secular religion as a system of rituals and symbols are employed and this create an atmosphere of sacredness that, in turn, brings out politics as an object of worship and devotion (Jones, n.d). Following Durkheim’s argument, in order to understand fully religion we must go back in time and analyse religious phenomena historically. This explains why he selected the Australian aborigines as his case study; that however primitive they might have been, it would be significant to discover their constituent and how they gave rise to the mode rn religions. This is done by comparing constituent elements from both cases. Durkheim insists, nevertheless, that this analysis involving both historical and ethnographic observations is not a conceptual possibility but rather a concrete reality. Notably also, he explained his choice of the Australian aborigines, a pre-modern group stating that it was scientific because there needs to be a foundation for every concept to be rightly explained. This was in contradiction to scholars who use history as a means of bringing into disrepute their modern counterparts (Rosati 2009, p.13). This implies that religion or any

Eradicating Cheating in the Educational System Essay

Eradicating Cheating in the Educational System - Essay Example At a very young age, the students are exposed to adult problems like facing the necessity of putting food on the table and taking care of their younger siblings. They carry the burdens of problems supposedly faced by their parents; however, due to the fact that oftentimes a father is in jail or a mother is struggling with drug addiction, the children are oftentimes faced with the very real demand that they begin to find alternative ways to earn money of their own so that they can help supplement the meager earnings of their family. With such a kind of life, the students are exposed to hardships that pressure them to cheat in order to survive in an increasingly challenging educational environment. Furthermore, in order to examine and understand the factors that oftentimes leads students to cheat in the first place. By way of perception, educators and police often consider these youths to be a mere extension of their parents; i.e. drug dealers and cheaters who are threats to the peace and order of the traditional community. They know they are selling drugs and they are watched by the requisite authorities in similar ways as are adults. Sometimes, they are also made as assets when the opportunity arises. They know they are tough so that even if they are young, they play rough with them. The children’s parents look up to them to take responsibility in their families. For instance, Michael is expected to provide for the family’s needs and in the eighth episode of season 4, he even gives his mother money instead of the mother giving him what he needs (The Wire Season 8 Episode 4 [34:37]). The familial and environmental backgrounds of the children demand them to become tough as they are and lost interest in schoolwork. However, to the teachers, the children are still children and human beings. Although most of them are failing in their classes, teachers like Prezbo do their best to seek to  continue to impart knowledge to the children in their classrooms.  

The Great Depression - Main Causes Essay Example for Free

The Great Depression Main Causes Essay Introduction Like us, many of you had a loved one that lived during the Great Depression. Many of us have heard stories from our parents or grandparents of the horrific times of the depression; stories that told us how hard it was to find a job, put food on the table, and to provide shelter for the family. Learning how to live without things was a battle all by itself. Hearing the stories made me grateful to be born in a different era. However, each era has its own battles to fight that will change the direction of the economy and maybe the world. Many people feel that we are in a depression. Unemployment rising, business closing its doors, and poverty in the United States on a rise, would make you think that we are in a depression. However, after careful research from articles, books, videotape, and previously conducted surveys, on the main causes of the depression, we realize that the recession that we are in is far from the Great Depression. Our research also uncovered the impacts of the depression that played a role in reforming the economy. Also, our research will show us how Franklin D. Roosevelt solved the depression and got the economy rolling again. Finally, there were many lessons learned by banks, business owners, and the government. We hope that the details of the Great Depression will enlighten you with comparisons on our current recession. Main Causes The main causes for the Great Depression were a combination of unequally distributed wealth, the stock market crash, and eventually the bank failures. The unequal distribution of wealth existed on many levels. Money was distributed unequally between the rich and the middle class, between industry and agriculture within the US, and between the US and Europe. This imbalance of wealth created an unstable economy. The excessive speculations kept the stock market artificially high, but eventually lead to large market crashes. These market crashes, combined with the unequal distribution of wealth, and bank failures, caused the American economy to collapse. The distribution of national income became increasingly skewed in the 1920s. The nations total realized income rose from $74.3 billion in 1923 to $89 billion in 1929. However, the prosperity was not divided evenly amongst all Americans. According to a study done by the Brookings Institute in 1929, the top .1% of Americans had a combined income equal to the bottom 42%. That same top .1% of Americans in 1929 controlled 34% of all savings, while 80% of Americans had no savings at all. While the disposable income per capita rose 9% from 1920 to 1929, those with income within the top 1% enjoyed a staggering 75% increase in per capita disposable income. A major reason for this gap between the rich and the working-class people was the increased manufacturing output through this period. Thus, wages increased 25% as fast as productivity increased. As production costs fell quickly, wages rose slowly, and prices remained constant. In fact, from 1923-1929 corporate profits rose 62% and dividends rose 65%. The large and growing gap in wealth made the US economy unstable. For an economy to function properly, total demand must equal total supply. In the 1920s there was an oversupply of goods. It was not that the surplus of products was not wanted, but those who really needed them, could not afford them. The federal government also contributed to the growing gap between the rich and middle-class. Andrew Mellon, Coolidges Secretary of the Treasury, was the main force behind tax cuts that lowered federal taxes such that a man with a million-dollar annual income had his federal taxes reduced from $600,000 to $200,000. Our textbooks would indicate that the purpose behind this would be that $400,000 would be spent, thus stimulating the economy. Instead, they invested it into the stock market, and lost everything. The federal government favored the new industries (radio and automotive) as opposed to agriculture. During World War 1, the government subsidized farms and paid higher prices for what and other grains. Because the government was feeding the US and Europe, they encouraged farmers to buy more land, invest  in modern methods, and to produce more food. However, when the war was over, the US stopped helping farmers. During the war, the government paid $2 a bushel for wheat, but by 1920, wheat prices fell as low as 67 cents a bushel. Farmers fell into debt; farm prices and food prices tumbled. The federal government left American farmers in the cold. The problem with having large concentrations of wealth and dependence upon two industries is the economy relies on those industries to expand, grow, and invest in order to prosper. At the time, the main problem with the automotive and radio industries was that they could not expand because people could and would only buy so many cars and radios. When those industries went down, they took the American economy with them. In 1929, 1,124,800,410 shares were traded on the New York Stock Exchange. From 1928 to 1929, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose from 191 to 381. This profit was attractive to investors. Company earnings were not important as long as stock process continued to rise, and huge profits could be made. Through the convenience of buying stocks on margin, one could buy stocks without money to purchase them. By mid 1929, the total of outstanding brokers loans was over $7 billion, in the next three months, that number would increase to $8.5 billion. Interest rates for brokers loans were as high as 20%! Prices had been dropping since September 3, 1929, but people were still optimistic. Hopeful investors continued to flock the market. Then on Monday October 21, 1929, prices started to fall quickly. The volume was so high that the ticker fell behind. Finally, investors were afraid! Knowing that prices were falling but because the ticker was behind, they could not tell how far they had fallen, so they started to sell quickly. This caused the collapse to happen faster. The market stabilized for a few days, and then on Monday October 28, 1929 prices started dropping again. By the end of the day, the market had fallen 13%. On Black Tuesday, October 29, 1929, 16.4 million shares were exchanged. Although many were disturbed by the stock market crash, few realized that the  Great Depression was ahead. The Bank Failures would make the near future of the US economy clear. Trying to benefit from the investment boom, like many investors, banks tied their money (customer deposits) up in the stock market. When the market collapsed, brokers began calling in margin accounts, many banks were forced into bankruptcy closing their doors to depositors. Failures of individual banks generated runs on other banks as depositors became nervous about the security of their accounts. A high rate of insolvencies hit the banking industry and the nations stock of money in circulation plummeted. These developments prompted a rapid tumble of the GNP that was the defining characteristic of the Great Depression. This speculation and the resulting stock market crashes, acted as a trigger to the unstable US economy. More jobs were lost, more banks went under, and more factories closed. Unemployment would grow to almost 13 million by 1932. The Great Depression had begun. Impact of the Economy There were many psychological, cultural, and political repercussions of the Great Depression. These impacts played a major role in reforming the American economy for the future that was to come. During the horrific times of the depression, everyone in America got a glimpse, whether short or prolonged, to how the United States would be under an economic crash. As you can see from the main causes of the depression, numerous amounts of people lost their jobs, the prosperity rate significantly increased, businesses failed, and the overall condition of America was faced with pure turmoil and suffering. Among each major impact that the depression had on the American economy, the most extravagant circumstance was the rapid decrease in overall business. For instance, there were more than 100,000 businesses that failed as an impact of the depression. By 1933, more than 5,000 banks had failed. Not  only did this affect the government, but the general public and the entire economy felt the hit also. Within every bank that closed, there were public savings and checking accounts that were also demolished. With no type of security in place to protect their investments and or savings, peoples money and sometimes even life savings, were gone. This decline created a continuing affect that spread throughout the economy. As a result, the national income fell by 54 percent. Close to 90 percent of industrial production ceased. The foreign trade decreased by 70 percent, and new investment in plants and equipment had plummeted by 98 percent. Hundreds of thousands of home and farm mortgages foreclo sed, and there was no decent food, clothing, or shelter to be purchased. Obviously, due to the circumstances, business was put on hold for what seemed like forever to the American economy. Consequently to the many business failures that occurred during the depression, along with the steadily decreasing income and tremendous rise in unemployment, many people were forced to live in horrible, strict, confined, and discouraging circumstances. People were living on the streets of America striving to survive. As a result, starvation and malnutrition was a major factor that affected the general public. Thousands of people starved in the streets while unsold food piled up or went bad on the nations farms, due to the need for profit. More than 2 million Americans moved from cities to farms in the hope of being able to at least feed themselves. Despair overcame millions of people who survived the distress but could not find work for months or even years. Others were forced to work in fields in order to make the little money they could. Family tensions increased as many people lacked jobs, resulting in a major increase in mental health problems, and family violence. The loss of money and personal belongings resulted in the number of relatives in one household or apartment, doubling within a short amount of time. These situations developed very confined living conditions resulting in unhealthy and unhappy circumstances. Many children had to leave their schools because they lacked clothing or the local school boards simply could not afford to maintain buildings or pay teachers. Children were forced to provide for themselves,  and their family. Uncertainty and unhappiness increased over the years. The overall living conditions of the depression were very unstable and unsatisfying to the American public. Feelings of distrust towards the government and the economy emerged from every single individual. The depression had a major impact on not just the current situation, future thoughts and actions were affected as well. Along with distrust from the public towards the economy, grew an extreme realization of poverty and distress for American society. The experience brought about a change in the viewpoints toward many aspects of life and business. Everyone was forced with making critical decisions that would forever change life situations. Ultimately, there was not one industry, bank, agricultural, or government aspect that was not noticeably affected by the depression. The impacts were felt at home in our society as well as across seas in other countries. Everyones living standards and situations suffered due to the depression. There was no true understanding of how these circumstances could have begun, and no knowledge of when it would end. Solving the Depression During the early years of the depression in the United States of America, President Herbert Hoover and his administration believed, as did many bankers, economists, and financial leaders, that left alone, the economy would eventually right itself. Business leaders operating through the spirit of competition would restore Americas prosperity and economic vitality. When the economy, during the depression, did not improve during Hoovers administration, Americans began looking for a new leader, a leader who would take decisive action against the economy. The people found a new leader in Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1932, when they elected him president in a landside election. Roosevelt believed that the federal government should take bold steps to improve the economy. He blamed financial leaders and big business for Americas economic (depression conditions) and recommended government regulation of banks and industry. President Roosevelt had many accomplishments during his term of president during the time of the depression. Some of his accomplishments were:  ·Social Security Act provided for state-administered, federally funded unemployment insurance, welfare benefits, administered old age, and survivors pensions. Prior to this passage few states provided old age pensions and un-employment insurance.  ·Relations Act (Wagner Act) gave new life to the National Industrial Recovery Act. That act gave workers the right to collectively bargain and established the National Labor Relations Board to supervise union elections and investigate unfair labor practices by companies.  ·Revenue Tax Act increased income taxes on the wealthy and on corporations.  ·Banking act of 1935 gave the federal government additional control over the Federal Reserve System.  ·Public Utility Holding Company Act placed power, water, and other utility companies under the regulation of the newly created Securities and Exchange Commission.  ·The Farm Act came in three stages. First the administration was empowered to adjust farm production to effective demand as a means of restoring the farmers purchasing power. Second was an accompanying authorization to refinance and readjust farm mortgage payments. Third the part of the act was the power for controlled inflation.  ·Emergency Farm Mortgage Act (1993) funded loans for farmers in immediate danger of losing their farms.  ·Wagner-Steagal Housing Act gave 500 million in loans for low-cost housing.  ·Youth Administration was established to equalize opportunity for youth. It  was setup to give economically disadvantage youth opportunities that were previously denied them.  ·Tennessee Valley Authority Act Aubrey Williams stated Major Problems in the Rehabilitation of the South, address to the Southern Tenant Farmers Union and the United Cannery, Agricultural, Packing, and Allied Workers of America, Memphis, Tennessee, September 26, 1937. This act provided federal funding for the development of the Tennessee Valley.  ·Rural Rehabilitation Division of FERA later called Resettlement Administration funded work-study jobs, teachers salaries, free lunch program and construction of new schools.  ·Works Relief Act provided immediate increase in employment and corresponding stimulation to private industry by purchase of supplies.  ·Works Progress Administration (WPA) put 3.5 million jobless Americans to work on roads, parks, and public building. Moreover, the WPA provided jobs for artists, writers, musicians, and authors as well as laborers.  ·National Recovery Act encouraged business leaders to work together to create codes that would control wages and prices.  ·Gold Reserve Act was signed on Roosevelts birthday. This gave the Treasury greater control of credit and currency. In 1933, Roosevelt pushed toward a three-month period called Hundred Days when Congress enacted the most sweeping program of reform. Fifteen major laws went on the books; they dealt with banking, the gold standard, relief, mortgages, hydroelectric power and regional planning, the stock market, and reorganizing industry and agriculture. Roosevelt throughout his term during the depression years encouraged cooperation and optimism with his speeches, fireside chats, and press conferences, which made a powerful impression on many Americans. Lessons Learned The Great Depression caused enormous hardship for virtually the entire industrialized world. As we look back over the many causes of the Great Depression, there were many lessons to be learned. The depression started because of the unequal distribution of wealth and the extensive stock market crash. The economy was affected by the failure of a large portion of the nations banks, businesses, and farms. There were many lessons learned in the financial aspect of the depression. First, there was massive government protection to banks in the form of the Reconstruction Finance Corporation and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. This was brought on by the turmoil that was felt in the banking sector. By implementing government protection the banking institutes were insured against withdrawals and the suspension of convertibility. In addition, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporations main benefit was having the central bank as the ultimate guarantor of the insurance system. As a result, during a pending financial collapse the bank removes any element of discretion about the behavior of its policymakers. Therefore, the central bank learned lessons regarding the function of the lender of last resort for short-term stabilization of the financial system. The reasons that stemmed government protection was noticeable bank weakness, poor depositor discipline, the unwilling of private associations to protect solvent banks from the threat of unwarranted runs, and the favorable agreement to have deposit insurance on economic grounds. Second, there was failure of the interwar gold standard. There were certain countries that caused the world money stock to decline substantially and rapidly. This brought about the fixed exchange rates and full currency unions. The gold standard of the interwar was referred to as a gold exchange standard and its main purpose was to establish and maintain a system of fixed exchange rates. Third, there was international trade and tariffs. Trade and payment policies were becoming very close and began to intertwine. In addition, when tariffs began they usually ended with trading blocs, bilateralism, and exchange controls. The lesson learned in this situation implies that deflation effects international trade through its impact on the real value of tariffs. Another lesson learned involved worldwide catastrophes. There was the use of cheap foreign labor to lower cost and improve profits, which drove imports of foreign made products and pushed labor offshore. There was a decline in domestic employment and it intensified the problems of the depression to the point in which caused a backlash. Then that is when the start of labor-union protectionism began. The lesson in this situation indicated that the 1930s protectionism assisted in the destruction of globalize. Eventually, the depression transformed national politics by vastly expanding government, which was increasingly expected to stabilize the economy and to prevent suffering. In order to create a stabilized economy, new plans, and policies for Social Security, unemployment insurance, and federal family assistance were established. In sum, the Great Depression was caused by the stock market crash, in which led to a poor banking system, causing low interest rates, brought on by an ineffective Federal Reserve policy. Therefore, knowing and understanding these lessons listed and many others, it is safe to say that as far as our current policies today, deflation is extremely costly and a gold standard is very dangerous. Conclusion The experience of the Great Depression brought about change in how we conduct business. For many people the depression brought on distrust in banks and our government; a trust that our government set out to regain in many years to come. Our government implemented federal laws and banking regulations  that would stabilize the economy for many years. Reorganizing industries, the stock market, and agriculture provided stability that lead to trust. Each era has had its own battles that has shaped and reshaped America into what it is today. Learning from battles such as racism, terrorism, and recessions will continue to form America into a better place. Works Cited Bender, David L. The Great Depression Opposing Viewpoints, 1994 Greenhaven Press, Inc. San Diego, CA Gerdes, Louise I. The Great Depression, Great Speeches in History, 2002 Greenhaven Press, Inc. San Diego, CA Gustmorino, Paul A III. Main Causes of the Great Depression. Gusmorino World. May 13, 1996. Online. James, Harold. The End of Globalization: Lessons From The Great Depression. Cambridge; London: Harvard University Press, 2001 Jeffries, John W., Nash, Gary B., Segrue, Katherine L., The Great Depression and WWII, 1929-1945. Encyclopedia of American History. Kutler, Stanley I. Dictionary Of American History. Third Edition. Charles Scribners Sons, Inc. May 2003. Kutler, Stanley K., Dallek, Robert, Hollinger, David A., McCraw, Thomas K., Kirkwood, Judith. The Great Depression, 1929-1939. Encyclopedia of the United States in the Twentieth Century. Volume III. Watkins, T.H. The Great Depression America in the 1930s. New York: Little, Brown and Company, 1993.

Care Of People With Learning Disabilities

Care Of People With Learning Disabilities Regardless of the above mentioned fact, a large majority of the population, in the UK continues to suffer from blatant neglect in terms of receiving quality health care. Although there are various services offered by the government at various levels to ensure proper care of patients, the more psychological and moral aspects of care for the soul and dignity in health care are usually ignored. This paper, aims to probe the various issues related to the element of dignity as it pertains to provision of health care of people suffering from learning disabilities, and explores the range of services available to them, at various stages of life, from birth till death. People with Learning Disabilities are one of the most Vulnerable groups in the society (Department of Health 2001). It is estimate that there are over 800,000 people in the UK aged over 20 years who have a learning disabilities and this number could be rise by 14 percent to 900,000 by 2021 (Department of Health 2005a). Dignity in care has become an important policy thrust for the people with learning disability and its a fairly recent trend for governments to feel that it is their role to enlighten people how to do their job rather than just set broad guidelines/policy parameters for the Health and social service (Wainwright. 2008) Meaning and Definition of the terms and Concepts used: The terms and / or concepts which are frequently used throughout this study, such as Dignity, Learning Disability, and Disenfranchised Death, are explained in the following section: The term Dignity is defined as: Dignity is concerned with how people feel, think and behave in relation to the worth or value of themselves and others. To treat someone with dignity is to treat them as being of worth, in a way that is respectful of them as valued individuals (RCN, 2008). Dignity in care consists of numerous overlapping phases which pertaining to respect, privacy, independence and self-esteem. The impermanent sense of dignity used as a guide which based on standard dictionary definition. At state, quality or manner worthy of esteem or respect ; and self-respect. Dignity in care, therefore, means the kind of care, in any setting, which supports and promotes, and does not undermine, a persons self-respect regardless of any difference. (A desk research report prepared for the Department of Health 2009): Learning Disability: In the UK in 1995 there was a ground swell of opinion and referred to as mentally handicapped their families and those who worked with them, brought about a change in terminology from mental handicapped to learning disability(M.Brown-2003). Learning disability includes the presence of: A significantly reduced ability to understand new or complex information, to learn new skills (impaired intelligence), with a reduced ability to cope independently (impaired social functioning); and a condition which started before adulthood, with a lasting effect on development (Scottish Executive, 2010). Disenfranchised Death: Disenfranchised death is death that is not openly acknowledged with the dying person, where the dying person is socially excluded from the process of dying and deliberately excluded from the decision making processesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Read, 2006: 96) However, reviewing different context of learning disability care reveals a variety of ways in which the term has been defined several times (Department of Health 2001a, Gates 2003,Grant et al 2005, O Hara Sperlinger 1997). Within the United Kingdà Ã‚ ¾m leà Ã‚ °rning diц¢Ãƒ Ã‚ °bility iц¢ the term uц¢ed when referring tà Ã‚ ¾ Ñâ‚ ¬eà Ã‚ ¾Ãƒâ€˜Ã¢â€š ¬le with Ñ Ãƒ Ã‚ ¾gnitive imÑâ‚ ¬Ãƒ Ã‚ °irment. à Ã‚ rà Ã‚ ¾und the wà Ã‚ ¾rld termц¢ inÑ lude intelleÑ tuà Ã‚ °l diц¢Ãƒ Ã‚ °bility, develà Ã‚ ¾Ãƒâ€˜Ã¢â€š ¬mentà Ã‚ °l diц¢Ãƒ Ã‚ °bility, mentà Ã‚ °l hà Ã‚ °ndiÑ Ãƒ Ã‚ °Ãƒâ€˜Ã¢â€š ¬ à Ã‚ °nd mentà Ã‚ °l retà Ã‚ °rdà Ã‚ °tià Ã‚ ¾n. à Ã‚  leà Ã‚ °rning diц¢Ãƒ Ã‚ °bility iц¢ à Ã‚ ° life-là Ã‚ ¾ng Ñ Ãƒ Ã‚ ¾nditià Ã‚ ¾n thà Ã‚ °t uц¢uà Ã‚ °lly beginц¢ à Ã‚ ¾n à Ã‚ ¾r à Ã‚ °rà Ã‚ ¾und the time à Ã‚ ¾f birth à Ã‚ °nd reц¢ultц¢ in à Ã‚ ° reduÑ ed à Ã‚ °bility tà Ã‚ ¾ underц¢tà Ã‚ °nd new à Ã‚ °nd Ñ Ãƒ Ã‚ ¾mÑâ‚ ¬lex infà Ã‚ ¾rmà Ã‚ °tià Ã‚ ¾n à Ã‚ °nd Ñ Ãƒ Ã‚ ¾Ãƒâ€˜Ã¢â€š ¬e indeÑâ‚ ¬endently. Research Question: The basic research question this paper tries to address is: Dignity in health care for people with learning disabilities (LD): Fact or a Farce? Through this question an attempt is made to: Examine the range of services currently provided to people with learning disabilities. Whether such services are in conformity with the overall objectives set by the government. Whether there exists any discrimination or prejudice between people with learning disabilities and the normal public in providing such services. Whether the claims made by the government concerning equality and fair treatment of such people hold true. The answers to the above questions, as provided through the literature review will help in determining whether dignity in care for people with learning disabilities is a fact or a farce. Aims and Objectives: The main aim of this study is to explore the issues related to dignity as it pertains to health care of people suffering from learning disabilities. The objectives include: To explore the range of challenges faced and problems encountered by people suffering from learning disabilities Assess the quality of health care services available to them Investigate the need for a comprehensive and an all-encompassing health care policy for such people To understand and compare the type of services offered and available to them To explore the role of carers, health care institutions and other support services in enhancing their status and ensuring their well-being. Ethics: The concept of ethics has evolved recently from the modest definition of the term that of conventional ethics, to its gradual transformation into various branches and sub-types such as bio ethics, ethics related to human rights and to the more recent, health policy ethics. Ethics in terms of health care refers to the equitable and fair distribution of resources, benefits and services among the people, regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, socio-economic background or the kind of illness they are suffering with. Equity in treatment of illnesses, hence, is an inevitable and inseparable part of health care ethics. On account of growing concerns regarding the inequitable treatment given to people with learning disabilities the initiatives related to providing adequate and good quality health care have gained momentum. Activists worldwide, campaigning for the cause of provision of adequate health care facilities for people with various disabilities, have actively pushed for dignity in health care, especially towards people with learning disabilities. They have demanded a thorough review of policies and principles of health care to ensure dignity of such people. (Morrison, 2008). As the civilization confidently strides towards a new millennium, there is likely to be a rise in group of supporters campaigning for and advocating ethics in health care with a special stress on protecting and defending human dignity. Such a cause which is advocated by academic scholars, researchers, human right groups and activists alike, must, hence be taken up seriously and appropriate policies are developed at the local, regional as well as national levels to ensure compliance (Fulford et al, 2002). Ethics in general and in health care in particular, has undergone a major transformation from a concept which was initially confined to protecting the interests of an individual to a full-fledged social concern. Hence it is inevitable for the health care institutions to take such a matter into consideration while developing strategies and implementing health care policies, which involves people with learning and other developmental disabilities. Project Methods/Methodology: For the purpose of this study, phenomenological research methodology is chosen, whereby observations are made on the basis of data collected from trusted government websites such as the NHS, published research reports, medical journals, books as well as magazines and newspapers. In order to accomplish the research objectives, an attempt was made to explore, analyze and seek information related to qualitative studies which aimed at: Assessing the plight of people suffering from learning disabilities. The perception of such people towards the health care facilities made available by the government. The existence of various services and its effectiveness and addressing the key issues and challenges faced by such people. The need for trained carers and the knowledge which they must possess in order to be able to deal with such people, in a better and efficient manner. The various obstacles which may be encountered while dealing with patients suffering from learning disabilities right from detection to end-of-life care, etc among others. This research is based on the phenomenological research methodology, which takes into consideration the perspectives of other researchers, and research reports published by government departments comprising of first hand information and accounts of people suffering from learning disabilities. According to Dilthey, (in Rapport, 2004): The quest to understand more and better is essentially a qualitative pursuit that requires an experience-near language. It starts with experiences we already understand and expands and deepens these understandings into broader and different contexts through dialogue with otherness. Such understanding proceeds by a mode of analysis in which meaning arises out of relating parts to whole (Pp. 80) Literature review helps in assessing, analyzing and interpreting various studies conducted by scholars, and researchers with regard to the topic under study and helps in justifying and substantiating the research hypothesis. Literature reviews help in summarizing the various perspectives presented by the researchers with regard to the given topic and lend more credibility to the subject being discussed. According to Burns and Grove (2005): Literature review is an organized written presentation of what has been published on a topic by scholars. The purpose of the review is to convey to the reader what is currently known regarding the topic of interest (Pp.93). Literature Review: People with learning disabilities are often excluded within society also have little control over their own lives, and were more likely than others to have bad things happening in their lives (Joint Committee on Human Rights, 2008). People with learning disabilities, and particularly older ones, are among those groups of people who are faced with various barriers, such as access to good quality health care and equality in opportunities and health care services available to them, which add to their woes by making it all the more difficult to cope with their disability (Jenkins, 2005; Frey, 2006). People with learning disabilities comprise of a highly vulnerable section of the society and have limited access to health care facilities / services offered to them. Hence they are often faced with obstacles and challenges while copying with grave situations such as loss and bereavement of loved ones, personal illness, death etc (Elliott, 1995). which in turn tends to aggravate their situati on and increase their dependence on the society which includes their friends, family and loved ones as well as the community in general. They are known to have been ignored persistently in terms of providing services in the need of personal illness, death, and other challenging life situations, thus increasing their vulnerability all the more. One of the most common characteristics observed in case of people with learning disabilities, on the basis of various studies, is their inability to communicate effectively. Although some of them can communicate their thoughts, feelings, fears and emotions effortless, a majority of them find it difficult to communicate accurately, in a meaningful manner. Such a drawback, often leads to further serious complications, such as detection of any major health problems, thus putting their lives at risk (Gates, 2007; Great Britain: Joint Committee on Human Rights Report, 2008). According to Tuffrey-Wijne (2003), one of the most effective means of accurate medical assessment is appropriate and effortless communication and any irregularity in communicating issues related to ones health often, invariably leads to disastrous results, which affects the health of the individual in question, and leads to incorrect and undesirable outcomes. The outcome of ineffective communication and inability to communicate ones health problems is even more lethal in case of people with learning disabilities. According to Tuffrey-Wijne (1997) any inefficiency on the part of the individual suffering from learning disability, to communicate their health problems, may lead to a late diagnosis which further leads to an incorrect prognosis, and ultimately ends in untimely death of the individuals concerned. Office of Population Censuses and Surveys (OPCS 1998) showed that 48% of people with learning disabilities have impairment in one sensory domain and 18% are doubly impaired. Most s ignificant issues are eating problem, nutrition, sleeping, respiratory function problems, foot care, skin conditions, pressure sores, bowel problems and gear disease (J.OHaraA.Sperlinger, 1997). Improved access to health care services for people with learning disabilities is a step ahead in ensuring their well being. Good quality physical and mental care services can go a long way in ensuring their long term safety. Furthermore increased commitment on the part of the carers and other health care service providers is probably one of the fastest and cheapest ways to ensure their better health. One of the most important and crucial elements of health care services is offering end-of-life care services to people with learning disabilities. Communication, with respect to people with learning disabilities, is not restricted to the mere transfer of thoughts to the other person/s but in fact, it includes the ability that other person, to whom the information is being communicated, to accurately interpret the thoughts being conveyed, respond promptly on the information made available to them, and ensure follow up. Such a form of reciprocal communication is an extremely important and fundamental survival tool, for people with learning disabilities. According to Kerr et al (1996) available statistics have indicated that as many as 50% of the people suffering from learning disability suffer from some form of communication impairment, which includes difficulties in cognition, hearing, language, speech or social interaction (Ambalu, 1997). This is a matter of grave concern for the care givers as well as the government health care institutions which are involved in providing health care services to people with disabilities. Another equally critical aspect, which is generally observed with regard to the people with learning disabilities, is the negative perception about such people among the common public, which in turn further gives rise to an equally negative reaction from people with learning disabilities which arises from the feeling that they are being negatively viewed (Gates, 2007). According to Thornton (1996), Lindop and Read (2000) and Read (2006) the major reasons behind such negative perception of people with learning disabilities is the lack of adequate knowledge as well as lack of professional experience which invariably leads to negative attitudes among people towards those with learning disabilities. According to Mencap (2004) such factors may further culminate into professional incongruity and prejudicial treatment, thereby further hampering their mental and physical well-being ultimately leading to institutional discrimination and poor health care for such people. Create awareness and b uild up interpersonal relationships with people with learning disabilities, consideration needs to be given to how to maintain relationships, using everyday opportunities to engage in valued conversation. Often, as carers, main interaction with people is associated with personal care (Ambalu in OHara Sperlinger1997). The government White Paper Valuing people: A new strategy for Learning Disability for the 21st Century (Department of Health 2001a) clearly set the agenda for us, in offering appropriate and effective support people with learning disabilities in their everyday lives. Critical Commentary: Learning Disability is a label. People with learning disability are people first. The British Institute of Learning Disabilities, 2010 Thus it is imperative that such people receive utmost care and quality health care services which, if not better, at par with the facilities and services enjoyed by the rest of the population, regardless of their mental / physical health. People, regardless of their backgrounds i.e. race, ethnicity, gender, age, or socio-economic backgrounds they belong to, have an equal and just right to have access to quality health care services, and the denial of such a basic right, is the denial of human rights. It has been observed, on the basis of the above research, that people suffering from learning disabilities are often victims of negative public perception and lack of professionalism displayed by the carers, which forces this group to succumb to their illnesses, which often goes undetected. Such disenfranchised deaths, are common among people with learning disability (Read, 2006) and hence requires active steps to be taken on the national level. In order to eliminate and / reduce the occurrence of such disenfranchised deaths among people with learning disabilities; it is necessary and extremely important for the general population to treat such people with dignity, and respect. They deserve an equal right to be treated as adults and equal citizens. Such a policy entails implementation of creative health care strategies specifically aimed at people with learning disability, as well as active participation and cooperation on the part of the carers, in order to ensure effective communication, which in turn, as observed from the above research, ensures better understanding of the problems faced by them, a prompt analysis and diagnosis and an effective treatment. Conclusion: Dignity in care is a very critical element of health care, and considering the fact that people with learning disabilities are amongst the largely socially disqualified and hence highly vulnerable, groups in the UK it requires immediate attention at both institutional as well as national level. People suffering from learning disabilities are socially ignored, and often are subject to prejudicial treatment, partly owing to lack of awareness and more so, on account of the lack of availability of opportunities. They rarely have proper employment and have little or no control over the carers who are appointed for looking after their well-being. Moreover their concerns are barely discussed on a wider platform. This situation is grave and calls for immediate change and positive reforms. People with learning disabilities are equally respectable members of the society and they need to be treated with dignity and care which they deserve. Concerns such as unemployment, proper health care, education, housing, social security, etc should be addressed by the government in association with the local councils and ensure its proper access to the people with in dire need of such services. Proper implementation of well designed policies and measures and synchronized co-ordination of all members of the community can go a long way in securing the well being of such people. It can be difficult at times, and extremely challenging but such positive practice by the health care service providers and carers alike can pave way for better networking, collaborative working and interdisciplinary support, thus ensuring their health and safety in the long run (BILD,2010).. It is imperative that the government and the leading health care institutions champion this cause, and instigate, lead and encourage such good practice initiatives by providing professional and well trained carers for people with learning disabilities. Hence gaining trust and building relationship over a period of time are important consideration not only establishing and maintaining relationships, but also in thinking about ending (I. Peate D. Fearns 2006). In conclusion, strict guidelines and policies are not enough at times, and it needs a collaborative effort on all fronts to strive to provide better care to people with learning disabilities.

Educational Goals and Philosophy :: Teaching Teachers Education Learning Essays

Philosophy of Education It has taken me many years to decide on what profession that I want to pursue. I enlisted for four years in the Air Force and enjoyed this very much, but the time away from my family was too much. After getting out of the Air Force, I decided I wanted to go into the financial arena and started selling insurance for New York Life Insurance Company. I did not have the personality to sell life insurance for this involved being really pushy. Later I found what I thought was the perfect job, assistant manager at a credit union. I still was not happy. While all these career changes were going on, I was coaching a club soccer team consisting of high school boys. This gave me the vision of what I really wanted to do, become a teacher. The biggest reason why I want to become a teacher is that a teacher has the ability to influence and shape the future Albert Einstein, Bill Gates, or just the average Joe down the street. We all can remember that one teacher who shaped or changed our lives as we progressed through our schooling and what better way to honor them than by trying the accomplish the same things they did for us. This is a very powerful ability to possess and while your influential you must not let your prejudices interfere with the rounding of the student. What important qualities will I need to possess to be an effective high school teacher? I will need to have patience as I already see how important this is with my own daughter. Intelligence is important in your area of expertise because students will be able to tell if you know what you are teaching. Honesty with students because this will build trust among the students and yourself. Sharing life experiences with your students is important because this also builds trust among yourself and the students. Being well organized is another quality that must possess and at this time I need work in this area. Caring is an important quality because sometimes we forget that our students are human and has ideas and opinions of their own. Being fun and interesting builds wonderful memories and helps the students learn. My goals as a teacher include the things above, but also many more. First and foremost I want to receive my master’s degree, but while doing this I also want to be teaching in a high school.