Constitution of Uk Essay Example for Free

Constitution of Uk Essay As Pryor mentioned, a Constitution â€Å"is a written document setting out a system of founding principles according to which a nation is constituted and governed, and, most particularly, by which is sovereign power is located† (Pryor, 2008, pp. 4). Therefore, constitutions limit the governments’ powers, protect people’s rights, and infer the legitimacy of the state. The constitution of Great Britain hasn’t been brought together into a single document like other commonwealth countries such as France – it is not written or codified. Britain’s constitution is made up of common laws, Parliament acts, and customs and traditions. But Britain does have some important constitutional documents from the Act of Parliament such as the Magna Carta (1215): â€Å"which aimed to protect citizens against arbitrary power and guaranteed the right to a fair trial and trial by jury† (Barnett Diamantides, 2007, p.33), and Bill of Rights (1689): â€Å"the Lords and Commons, previous to the coronation of King William and Queen Mary had framed a bill which contained a declaration of the rights which they claimed in behalf of the people, and was in consequence called the Bill of Rights† (Jean Louis de Lolme, 1853, pp. 50). Britain has no written constitution because â€Å"the country has been stable for too long. The governing elites of many European nations, such as France and Germany, have been forced to draw up constitutions in response to popular revolt or war† (Morris, 2008). In addition, since the current situation has been working well for a long time, why to change it? Besides, the constitution can be changed or adjusted by acts of Parliament, or by an agreement. Since it is flexible, effective amendments in laws can be easily made. A.V. Dicey explained that a flexible constitution is â€Å"one under which every law of every description can legally be changed with the same ease and in the same manner by one and the same body† (Dicey, 1885, pp.65). It is also very valid for Great Britain not to have a written constitution so not to limit the power of the executive branch – the main executive branch being the parliament. Without the laws of the country written in a formal document where people can check them, it is very difficult to know the limits of the government. Hence, an unwritten constitution preserves the parliament’s sovereignty. Moreover, without a written constitution, the parliament is able to inspect the ministers in favor of the public. Albert Venn Dicey, who was a law professor in London School of Economics and a constitutional scientist, said that it is actually advantageous for Britain not to have a written constitution. He mentions that the people’s rights and democracy have been long respected in the constitutional arrangements of Great Britain. He called it (the respect of people) as the ‘The Rule of Law’ which is â€Å"the security given under the English constitution to the rights of individuals looked at from various points of view† (Dicey, 1885, pp. 107). Dicey summarized this rule in three main points. According to Dicey in his book ‘The Law of the Constitution’, no man will be punished except if the law allows it. Secondly, every man, regardless of his status, is subject to the law (no person is above the law). Thirdly, people’s liberty and rights are respected, and consequently, there is no need for the Bill of Rights (Dicey, 1885, pp. 110-115). A country might have a constitution, but may not enjoy constitutionalism. According to Kuper and Kuper â€Å"Constitutionalism is a political condition in which the constitution functions as an effective and significant limit on government† (The Social Science Encyclopedia, 1996, pp. 134). For constitutionalism to occur the constitution must constrain the government; hence, any government that is constitutional can be referred to as â€Å"limited government† (The Social Science Encyclopedia, 1996, pp. 134). In many regions, such as the European Union, constitutionalism is maintained by the Court of Justice, or judicial reviews. According to Kuper and Kuper, these practices aren’t required in the British system because â€Å"the most important constitutional precepts are maintained and enforced more informally through well-established popular attitudes and the restraint of politicians† (The Social Science Encyclopedia, 1996, pp. 134). Furthermore, there are countries with a written constitution such as Middle-eastern countries, but don’t practice constitutionalism. It is the executive body that rules and sets the laws, and in addition, there is no limit to its power. Furthermore, an opposition party or a judiciary, those who make sure that constitutionalism is practiced, and maintain constitutional limits are actually â€Å"not independent of government, because they are controlled by social or economic interests aligned with the government† (The Social Science Encyclopedia, 1996, pp. 134). Hence, even if there is a written constitution that can limit the government’s power, those who enforce constitutional laws may be in line with the government. A constitution might be nothing but a symbol or tool in order for governments to acquire both internal and external legitimacy, and for the public to respect the political and social rules. In the case of Britain, the people chose the anniversary of Magna Carta as the new national day, which shows that the people believe that the power of their ruler is bound. Magna Carta â€Å"didnt work in practice but it set a precedent. It advanced the cause of liberty, constitutionalism and parliamen tarianism†¦..† (The Telegraph, 2006). Reading in the news, the idea of forming a written constitution in Great Britain is being addressed by the current Prime Minister Gordon Brown in order to increase the democracy in Britain. But what must and must not be included in the constitutions? So, since this system has been working in Britain for centuries, and there is a body (the Parliament) that has some power over the prime minister, the system must not be tampered with. The well functionality of the system, the stability of the country, and the great flexibility in making and terminating laws are some of the reasons why Great Britain has an unwritten constitution. To sum everything up, Great Britain does not have a written constitution, but they do have other forms of constitutional documents. This system has been working well for a very long period of time, and even without a constitution, constitutionalism (which is limiting the government’s power) is still being practiced to some extent. Bibliography Adam Kuper, Jessica Kuper (ed.): The Social Science Encyclopedia (London: Routledge, 1996). A.V. Dicey: Introduction to the study of The Law of the Constitution (London: Macmillan, 1885). John Louis De Lolme: The Constitution of England (London: Henry G. Bohn, 1853). Judith Pryor: Constitution (London: Routledge, 2008). Hilaire Barnett Marinos Diamantides: ‘Sources of the Constitution’, Public Law. Published on 2007 by University of London, accessed from http://www.londonexternal.ac.uk/current_students/programme_resources/laws/subject_guides/public_law/public_chs1to4.pdf Nigel Morris: ‘The Big Question: Why doesnt the UK have a written constitution, and does it matter?’ published on 14/02/2008, accessed from http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/the-big-question-why-doesnt-the-uk-have-a-written-constitution-and-does-it-matter-781975.html No author: ‘Magna Carta is favoured date for British Day’, published on 30/05/2006, accessed from http://www.telegraph.co.uk/global/main.jhtml?xml=/global/2006/05/30/nmagna30.xml

Collection of Reflective Statements

Collection of Reflective Statements Amruth Ganesh One of the famous Australian cricketer the world has seen is Ricky Thomas Ponting. He was captain of Australian cricket team. He captained test cricket between 2004 and 2011 and One day international cricket between the period 2002 and 2011. He is famous for his batting skills and is a right handed batsman. He is the 42nd Test captain of the country (http://www.espncricinfo.com Ricky Ponting). Under his captainship Australia won world cups in 2003 and 2007. He was also the part of 1999 world cup match. Ponting started playing cricket from an early age and made his debut in 1992 for Tasmania. In 1995 made his debut in one day international match. It is not only batting skills he is famous for but also fielding and his aggressive captaincy. He is the only person who showed eagerness to lead the team when Australia was in search of replacement for the legendary captain Steve Waugh in 1994. He is famous for his series of achievements. He has won Allan Border Medal four times (http://www.edubilla.com Ricky Ponting). He is one of the four players who have scored 13000 test runs in the history. He is the only cricketer who has bagged most test victories (48 out of 77 tests) and world cup as a captain. His Concentration on the game was amazing and never used to get distracted. Though his temperament was high during the matches, he was successful in managing his team. In 2012, Ponting announced his retirement from test cricket one day before the test against South Africa. He played his last one day international match on February 2012 and his last test cricket on December 2012. He will always be remembered as the most successful captain of all the time. References: Ricky Ponting Available at: [Accessed 04 Mar. 2017] List of Ricky Pontings achievements and statistics Available at: http://www.gutenberg.us/articles/list_of_ricky_pontings_achievements_and_statistics [Accessed 04 Mar. 2017] Most successful captain, but not much love for Ponting Available at: [Accessed 04 Mar. 2017] Reflection Essay 2: Workplace Culture I am from India. I have worked in India for about 3 years after graduation before coming to Australia for post graduation. I can now make out some of the noticeable changes comparing both countries in terms of workplace culture. In Australia more preference is given to balanced work life irrespective of the jobs. The average working hours per week varies around 40 hours (http://www.abs.gov.au Trends in hours worked). While in India we work for minimum 48 hours per week and sometimes it will go up to till 55 hours. Hierarchy structure in India varies from job to job and is pretty high when compared to Australia. Staying back late in the office is common in India. In Australia they maintain strict timings and usually people wont make it late to the office and rarely they stay back late in the evenings (https://www.canstar.com.au What is Australias working culture like?). The breaks given during office hours are less in Australia when compared to India where we get more break timings. The main policy which fascinated me the more is about dignity of labor here in Australia. No work is less; no work is more, is the motto here. All occupations are treated equally here where whereas in India prominence is not given that much to the dignity of labor. This is one of the main barrier that is hindering the work productivity. Usually people are respected based on type of occupation and sometimes people think twice before doing the jobs like drivers, waiters and house help. On the whole, both countries have their own set of workplace culture. Changing the work style of a country and adapting to it takes time. These work policies should be reviewed from time to time to ensure smooth work life balance. References: Available at: Australia culture in the workplace Available at: [Accessed 04 Mar. 2017] Cultural Differences between India and Australia Available at: [Accessed 04 Mar. 2017] Reflection essay 3: The evolution of social media channels Social media is mainly a public platform to interact and connect with people through web-based technology. Social media channels contribute majorly in exchange of ideas between the people. Some of the examples are Facebook, Whatsapp, LinkedIn, Twitter, Youtube and so on. Today LinkedIn has more than 297 million members (http://www.digitaltrends.com The history of social networking). Communication between the people has become more convenient nowadays through these channels when compared to earlier times. Earlier it was more tedious process to connect with people more often. The evolution of social media has made a significant impact in the recent days. It has changed the way the people communicate with each other. These channels has become boon to marketing people. Marketing in these channels are free and reaches more people globally when compared to old traditional methods. Movie promotions go viral on these channels.   Its a good platform for new talents to showcase their skills. One of major benefit of these channels are exposure to more job opportunities and searching job has been made easier through these channels. The Sensis Social media report shows that 50 percent of users are accessing social media every day (http://www.shortpress.com How the evolution of social media has changed Australian small business). On the other hand there is significant number of drawbacks for these channels. Cyber bullying in the recent times have been increased and adults are more likely to get affected by this. More addiction to this social media will likely cause depression among people. Trolling and harassment cases have also been increasing. Hacking has become another major problem these days. There is considerable amount of threat if these channels are not used properly. Social media has become part of our life now. This has both advantages disadvantages. We always should be looking forward to make best out of this. We should not get addicted to this and should make proper use of these channels. References: 5 Social-Media Opportunities Businesses Mostly Overlook Available at:    [Accessed 04 Mar. 2017] Social media best practice for business Available at: [Accessed 04 Mar. 2017] 7 Social Media Challenges And Business Opportunities For Social Media Managers Available at: [Accessed 04 Mar. 2017] Reflection essay (Workshop 2) In Week 2 class professor explained about the importance of communication skill. I learnt how useful communication is, in exchanging ideas and information from one another which helps us to grow personally and also professionally. I also learnt about three different types of communication that is verbal, nonverbal and graphic communication. There are two types of communication in the workplace namely formal and Informal way of communication. Also I learnt when and where to use this particular type of communication.   During this, one guy in the class raised a question that whether gender needs to considered as a part of communication, later which professor clarified by saying it needs to be considered. Professor also taught about types of nonverbal messages and classification of nonverbal communication. Main pillars of the constructive and effective communication are Ask, Look and Listen. One more important thing I learnt is listening is more important than speaking because we receive information when we listen. Professor stressed more on Active listening which is necessary to become an effective communicator and it also encourages the person on the other side. Also came to know about the listening funnel, forms of questioning and also types of questions. Professor made us understand the importance of seven elements of communication process and different causes for communication barriers. Social networking platforms play an important role in communication. I understood the need of behaving ethically while business communication. Overall the session was more interacting one and professor encouraged each and everyone to actively participate in the learning and discussion. Also professor allowed us to discuss on case studies and guided us about assignments. Case Study 1: 1.  Bernie has to apologize to Nicola for not appreciating the work she has done. He must assure her this wont be repeated again in the future and should convince her to continue working. He should ask here to be bold enough in raising her questions and clarifying them, so that it will be easy to resolve the conflicts. 2.  I would suggest Bernie to have more frequent interaction with Nicola and should try to understand her concerns regarding the work. He should avoid thanking her when she is alone instead he should appreciate her work in front of everyone and should also contribute by helping her in the work, which makes Nicola more confident and will be happy to continue work with him. 3.  Nicola should first listen with open mind while she is being instructed and should ask whatever doubts she has and must clarify at the end before starting up the work. She should stop talking to herself and start raising concerns if she is feeling something is not going right. This way she can work with clear mind and will be more confident. Q2: 1. Maintain eye contact with speaker Ensure correct posture Be attentive and dont get distracted Keep an open mind Respond appropriately Dont interrupt or suggest in the middle Use mirroring of some facial expression of the speaker Ask relevant questions Try to feel what speaker is feeling Summarize back to the speaker Give feedback to the speaker 2. Verbal signals Nonverbal signals Remembering Eye contact Question and answer Handshake Giving feedback Gestures Summarizing in the end Dressing Being attentive Facial expression 3.  In a workplace my active listening skill will show that I am a good listener and it also shows my interest towards the work. It makes an impression that I am respecting my co-workers and also helps me in gaining their trust. It also helps in solving the conflicts between one another by encouraging them to speak openly. It gives better insight in understanding the problems and thus enabling me to provide best and suitable solutions to it. It helps me in noting down few points regarding what happened in meeting and thus helps me gain better understanding and remember them, so that feedback can be given and questions can be raised at the end of the meeting.

Dynamics of Negotiations: Failed GE-Honeywell Merger Deal

Dynamics of Negotiations: Failed GE-Honeywell Merger Deal Conceptually, the purpose of every negotiation is to reach an agreement and realize the desired outcome, through efficient and amicable resolutions. The simple principle is to separate the parties from the issue, and focus on their interests rather than positions. But in reality, the process is not always so-especially in multiparty negotiations, which involves multiple parties with varying interests and differences. The objective of this essay therefore, is to critically analyze the complex nature of multiparty negotiations; with specific reference to a failed GE-Honeywell merger deal. The ultimate aim is to highlight the dynamics of the negotiations from standpoint of the parties interests and positions in the overall outcome. Keywords: multiparty negotiations, desired outcome, interests positions, failed merger. 1. Introduction Multiparty negotiation is defined in this context, as interactions involving multiple parties with varying interests and differences. Multiparty negotiation can be a complex and messy process, often with non-obvious outcomes. A number of elements make multiparty interactions significantly more complex and awkward than two-party negotiations. A notable difference is the variety of decision rules that might occur. For instance, in a two-party arrangement, failure of both parties to reach agreement leads to impasse; whereas, in multiparty negotiations, different decision rules could apply. In this article, analysis is focused on interests, differences and positions of all the parties involved in negotiating the (2001-2005), proposed business merger between General Electric Company and Honeywell International Inc. The rationale is to examine the interplay between the parties, in terms of strategies and tactics adopted during negotiations; degree of awareness of the parties BATNA and extent to which they employed competitive or cooperative strategies. The report also attempts to identify framing/anchoring techniques in the negotiations, and equally consider the role of trust, reputation and expertise in the overall decision/outcome of the negotiations. 2. Main Parties Involved The bid by General Electric (GE) to take over Honeywell International Inc. in 2001 was set to become the biggest merger in industrial history, when the European Commission barred it from taking place1. This transatlantic negotiations for a business merger involved strategic parties such as: GE Manufacturing Company, GE Capital Services, United States Department of Justice, the US Military, European Commission and the European Court of First Instance (CFI). Notable among individual personalities who also participated actively and played tactical roles in the negotiations are: European competition commissioner- Mario Monti and the GE Spokesperson-Jonathan Todd. 3. Institutional and Historical Context In 2001, one of the biggest companies in the world, General Electric-American giant manufacturer of aircraft engines; was attracted by Honeywell Internationals aerospace businesses1-avionics technology, which fit in perfectly with GEs business interests; creating remarkable synergies for these two American companies. GE Manufacturing Company was responsible for operational aspect, while all financial obligations for the merger were the responsibility of GE Capital Services-the financial arm of General Electric. The United States Department of Justice as a critical party in the negotiations, had earlier passed the merger, on condition that GE divest itself of Honeywells military helicopter unit, to protect the US military1. However, approval from European Commission was not easy to obtain and the deal fell through. 4. Interests/Positions of the Parties According to GE-Honeywell, their interest in the merger was to capitalize on core business competencies and create synergies. Other expressed reasons included, increasing market power and sharing infrastructure. The US-Department of Justice was happy with the proposed-merger and consented to it. However, it took cognizance of the concerns of US-Military over the security of their military helicopters; whose manufacture/servicing was vested with Honeywell. In view of this, the Department agreed with all other terms of the negotiations, but recommended that GE divest itself of Honeywells military helicopter unit; to protect the US military1. Conversely, the European Commission-EC was unhappy with the deal and prohibited its emergence. Their interest was to protect European markets from perceived monopoly. EC argued that a merger between GE and Honeywell would create too powerful an entity that would adversely affect the competitive position in the aerospace industry1. They maintained that the merger would give the two companies huge combined market share in the common markets in which they operated1. This, they observed would harm competitors as well as customers, by creating a near monopoly situation1. 5. Strategies and Tactics Adopted All the parties involved in this negotiation failed to invent options for mutual gain. While GE-Honeywell was more of contending and unwilling to concede to any of the demands; the EC on their part appeared to have had bottom-line in the negotiations, as they never considered other options outside their interests. They all exhibited clear case of high-concern for self and low-concern for others. For instance, The EC demanded that substantial chunks (amounting to about $ 7 billion) be divested by the two companies, and restrictions be imposed on the operations of the highly profitable GE Capital Services1. The demands GE said were far more than what it was ready to concede. The American companies and the regulatory authorities resorted to threats and slow/low commitment tactics; while the EC stood on take-it-or-leave-it option. 6. Awareness of BATNA and Use of Competitive/Cooperative Strategy It is obvious that the flexibility of Best Alternative To a Negotiated Agreement-BATNA, which was supposed to show all the parties what alternatives to negotiated agreements would be, and equally serve as standard against which agreements be measured; was neglected in favor of predetermined bottom-line. GE and its allies for example, recognized court litigation as their only BATNA, while EC predetermined a ban without further options. As it were with many multiparty negotiations, the differences in interests/positions of the transatlantic regulatory authorities; gave rise to competitiveness instead of cooperative strategy, which was unfortunately not resolved. Having used much of delay tactics, their inability to cooperate and explore other options to resolve their differences caused the deal fell through. 7. Use of Framing and Anchoring Techniques Anchoring and Framing are two psychological techniques that negotiators use to influence the negotiation process and its final outcome. While frames give alternative descriptions that help negotiators make sense of complex information and focus on the main issue; Anchors as bobby traps are set by negotiators to win their opponents, by defining the mental parameters within which the process operates. These two techniques featured prominently in this negotiation. For example, the EC being fully aware of its predetermined bottom-line set anchors for GE, by making outrageous demand for huge divestment of $ 7 Billion and other heavy sanctions it knew GE will be unwilling to concede. These high claims indeed misled GE. The US Department of Justice also used Framing technique to quickly self-guard US Military, by recommending a divestment from its helicopter arm from the merger. The Department focused on the main issue and disregarded any other feature outside the frame of the main issue. Also, the resorted name-calling by the merging companies and their allies on EC as being dubious and anti-American business; was part of their anchoring to provoke favorable decision and skew the final outcome. 8. Role of Trust/Reputation/Expertise and the Non-obvious Solution It is glaring that reputation/expertise of the merging companies remained the focal issue upon which the negotiating authorities based their arguments-of which many commentators knew would not produce an obvious solution. GE has a reputation of being arguably, the richest and best aircraft engines manufacturer in the world; and Honeywell was rated worlds number one in manufacture of aircraft avionics. The estimated capital worth of their merger was about $42 Billion2, which indeed played an intimidating role in the negotiation. Lack of trust became a critical factor that determined the final outcome of the negotiations. While EC questioned the integrity of the merger, and viewed it as a plot by the American companies to create monopoly and harm competitors/customers; the American companies and their supporters described ECs position as anti- American business attitude2. This undercurrent of tension/distrust ran so deep across the ranks that some called it transatlantic trade war2. With grandstanding positions by the parties from onset, many opined individuals/groups pointed earlier that there was possibility of non-obvious solution, which indeed became the final outcome 9. Lessons Learnt and Conclusions The important lesson learnt here, which is in total agreement with the concept of negotiation, as can be deduced from above examples is that making multi-party negotiations work successfully is a complicated and complex process. As can be inferred from above analysis, the negotiation fell through because of varying interests, parties differences and lack of trust. Strategically, the merger made good business sense, but contrasting positions hindered its realization hence, a failed merger. This special-type multiparty negotiations, marked the first time in negotiation history that transatlantic regulatory authorities differed significantly in their decisions. Conclusively, it is worth noting here that meticulous consultations with effective use of individual BATNAs, Framing and Cooperative strategies during the interactions; would likely have paved the way for successful negotiations that would be of mutual (win-win) benefits.

The American Landscape of Literature Essay -- Literary Analysis, J.D S

The authors J.D Salinger and Joseph Heller have created novels that depict the American landscape based on spirit, culture, identity and values. American spirit is defined through rebellion in both novels. J.D Salinger captures rebellion through Holden’s refusal to go with the flow of society, and Joseph Heller shows rebellion using Yossarian to capture rebellion by his ideals that it is better to survive then fight in a war while most Americans uphold the belief that it is an honor to sacrifice oneself for one’s country. The essence of American culture is portrayed in the novels by the loose meaning of love in that era. Both authors define the loose meaning of love through the multiple lovers both Holden and Yossarian obtain, as well as the lack of seriousness used when stating they are in love. J.D Salinger defines the American identity of individualism through Holden’s desire to make his own decisions and choose his own fate. Joseph Heller uses Yossarian to de scribe the American identity of independence because of his want to be free of the war and all the hardships it brings. Finally the American values are defined by J.D Salinger and Joseph Heller through Holden’s concern for a person’s inner being, and Yossarian’s concern for self-preservation. Through the development of the characters Holden and Yossarian, the novels Catcher in the Rye and Catch-22 capture the meaning of being an American through spirit, culture, identity and value’s. The Catcher in the Rye and Catch-22 are novels which equally capture the essence of rebellion in the entirety of the American spirit. Salinger demonstrates the American spirit through teenage rebellion arising from the needs of truth and security in life. The protagonist, Holden, creates this... ...fluences him to impress his superiors with the sacrifice of his inferiors. Throughout both novels, the essence of being an American has portrayed by Holden and Yossarian through American spirit, culture, identity, and values. Both characters develop through the novels to capture the American landscape of literature. The American spirit is conveyed by the spirit of rebellion in Holden and Yossarian. American culture is portrayed by Holden and Yossarian through the loose term and meaning of love in the era around World War II. Both protagonists and antagonists in Catcher in the Rye and Catch-22 capture the American identity of individualism and independence, as well as their opposites. The American values are also shown by both protagonists and antagonists through the concern of the inner being of a person and the desire for self-preservation and their opposites.

A Cultural Studies Approach to Understanding Islam Essay -- Interpret

In today’s world, given the turmoil that sometimes seems to be caused by religious differences, it is easy to see each religion as a monolithic entity existing separate from other religions, and thus representing starkly polar worldviews. Often, such notions arise as a result of not utilizing a cultural studies approach towards studying religion, which is arguably the best approach for understanding the role of religion in one’s daily life. The cultural studies approach, which examines the particular context in which one interprets his or her religion, is particularly important when it comes to understanding religions like Islam, whose adherents come from vastly different backgrounds. Through the cultural studies approach, which is arguably much more interdisciplinary than the textual approach, we see that one’s interpretation of religion is strongly influenced by factors including social, political, educational, and economic aspects of life, as well as one’s particular historical backdrop; this then makes the arts and literature a unique window by which we can observe a particular culture’s comprehension of the religion (Infidel of Love 10). These creative responses thus are my own response to my understanding of Islam, and intertwined in these works, then, are not only lessons from the classroom, but my own personal experiences, which have themselves been shaped by the economic, social and cultural backdrop in which I have grown up. Asides from the different cultural backdrops in which one can interpret Islam, it is also crucial to understand the fundamental divisions that have persisted in Islam, from Sufism, Shi’a, to Sunni groups. Understanding these different communities of interpretation is thus cruci... ...m Understandings of Islam. Harvard University Press, 2013. Asani, Ali. â€Å"In Praise of Muhammad: Sindhi and Urdu Poems.† Religions of India in Practice. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1995. Asani, Ali. Lecture: Gender and Islam. Aesthetic and Interpretive Understanding 54. Asani, Ali. Lecture: Pillars of Islam. Aesthetic and Interpretive Understanding 54. Asani, Ali. Lecture: Reform Revival Iran. Aesthetic and Interpretive Understanding 54. Chelkowski, Peter. Ta’ziyeh: Ritual and Drama in Iran. New York University Press, 1979. Handout Week 4: The Qur’an on the Attributes of Muhammad and the Names of God. Hussain, Rokeya Shakhawat. Sultana’s Dream and Selections from The Secluded Ones. New York: Feminist Press, 1998. Iqbal, Mohammad. â€Å"Complaint and Answer.† Trans. By A.J. Arberry. Satrapi, Marjane. Persepolis. New York: Pantheon, 2003. A Cultural Studies Approach to Understanding Islam Essay -- Interpret In today’s world, given the turmoil that sometimes seems to be caused by religious differences, it is easy to see each religion as a monolithic entity existing separate from other religions, and thus representing starkly polar worldviews. Often, such notions arise as a result of not utilizing a cultural studies approach towards studying religion, which is arguably the best approach for understanding the role of religion in one’s daily life. The cultural studies approach, which examines the particular context in which one interprets his or her religion, is particularly important when it comes to understanding religions like Islam, whose adherents come from vastly different backgrounds. Through the cultural studies approach, which is arguably much more interdisciplinary than the textual approach, we see that one’s interpretation of religion is strongly influenced by factors including social, political, educational, and economic aspects of life, as well as one’s particular historical backdrop; this then makes the arts and literature a unique window by which we can observe a particular culture’s comprehension of the religion (Infidel of Love 10). These creative responses thus are my own response to my understanding of Islam, and intertwined in these works, then, are not only lessons from the classroom, but my own personal experiences, which have themselves been shaped by the economic, social and cultural backdrop in which I have grown up. Asides from the different cultural backdrops in which one can interpret Islam, it is also crucial to understand the fundamental divisions that have persisted in Islam, from Sufism, Shi’a, to Sunni groups. Understanding these different communities of interpretation is thus cruci... ...m Understandings of Islam. Harvard University Press, 2013. Asani, Ali. â€Å"In Praise of Muhammad: Sindhi and Urdu Poems.† Religions of India in Practice. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1995. Asani, Ali. Lecture: Gender and Islam. Aesthetic and Interpretive Understanding 54. Asani, Ali. Lecture: Pillars of Islam. Aesthetic and Interpretive Understanding 54. Asani, Ali. Lecture: Reform Revival Iran. Aesthetic and Interpretive Understanding 54. Chelkowski, Peter. Ta’ziyeh: Ritual and Drama in Iran. New York University Press, 1979. Handout Week 4: The Qur’an on the Attributes of Muhammad and the Names of God. Hussain, Rokeya Shakhawat. Sultana’s Dream and Selections from The Secluded Ones. New York: Feminist Press, 1998. Iqbal, Mohammad. â€Å"Complaint and Answer.† Trans. By A.J. Arberry. Satrapi, Marjane. Persepolis. New York: Pantheon, 2003.

Wheelchair Experiement

The Wheelchair Experiment Why do people feel that it is acceptable to judge others? Why is it so difficult to lend a helping hand? During my brief time in a wheelchair, I discovered that hate and judgment towards individuals with disabilities still exists. For this project, I visited a local Target location and used a motorized wheelchair to navigate around the store. Through my time in a wheelchair, I discovered how difficult life could be if I were dependent on a wheelchair. As an able bodied adult, I did not like being immobile.My new found immobility left me feeling judged and alone in the world. At the age of twenty-four years old, I have never felt more judgment in my entire life than I did while I was in Target. I got many glances from children, and some adults glared at me as though it was my fault that I was in a wheelchair. I completely understood the daily challenges that go along with being disabled. Simple tasks like going to the restroom, trying on clothes, and reaching the top shelf for items became stressful and tiring.These tasks were made even more difficult when able bodied adults were not willing to assist me. Within the first thirty minutes, I had attempted to use the restroom and the fitting rooms. These were probably the most difficult tasks I attempted. While trying to get into the restroom, I noticed an employee laughing at me. Once he realized that I noticed him, he immediately stopped. Because the employee made me feel ridiculed, I left the area and did not go back. Shortly after the restroom incident, I attempted to use one of the fitting rooms.While attempting to use the fitting room, I noticed that the employee at the counter was not very helpful. She was not willing to remove carts that were obstructing the pathway. The fitting rooms clearly have handicap access, but because of the employee’s unwillingness to assist me I was unable to take advantage of these facilities. The situation left me feeling so uncomfortable, that I gave her the clothes in my cart and went to another part of the store to continue my shopping. During my final thirty minutes in the store, I noticed a couple that kept howing up on the same aisles as me. The couple consisted of a man and a woman who was using crutches to maneuver around the store. Because the woman was on crutches, I assumed that they would be understanding and helpful to someone else who also had a handicap. I noticed that the man willingly assisted the woman whenever she needed help, but he would photograph me struggling to reach an item on the top shelf. His actions left me feeling confused, helpless, and embarrassed about being in a wheelchair.As my journey through Target was coming to a close, I had lost hope that genuinely nice people still existed, until two employees proved me wrong. As I approached the register and checked out, the cashier assisted me by removing the items from my cart. After I checked out and paid, she graciously placed the purchased ite ms back into my cart. Immediately after I checked out, a security guard approached me and asked if I needed any assistance. The security guard walked me to my car and helped load my purchases into my car.Before this experiment, I did not recognize how mean and heartless individuals could be to someone with a disability or handicap. This experiment has taught me to always help others. Regardless of how someone physically appears, everyone is the same on the inside. Everyone has a heart and emotions, and both can easily be destroyed by another’s inconsiderate actions. Because of what I have learned through this assignment, I will always try to lend a helping hand to those in need. Wheelchair Experiement The Wheelchair Experiment Why do people feel that it is acceptable to judge others? Why is it so difficult to lend a helping hand? During my brief time in a wheelchair, I discovered that hate and judgment towards individuals with disabilities still exists. For this project, I visited a local Target location and used a motorized wheelchair to navigate around the store. Through my time in a wheelchair, I discovered how difficult life could be if I were dependent on a wheelchair. As an able bodied adult, I did not like being immobile.My new found immobility left me feeling judged and alone in the world. At the age of twenty-four years old, I have never felt more judgment in my entire life than I did while I was in Target. I got many glances from children, and some adults glared at me as though it was my fault that I was in a wheelchair. I completely understood the daily challenges that go along with being disabled. Simple tasks like going to the restroom, trying on clothes, and reaching the top shelf for items became stressful and tiring.These tasks were made even more difficult when able bodied adults were not willing to assist me. Within the first thirty minutes, I had attempted to use the restroom and the fitting rooms. These were probably the most difficult tasks I attempted. While trying to get into the restroom, I noticed an employee laughing at me. Once he realized that I noticed him, he immediately stopped. Because the employee made me feel ridiculed, I left the area and did not go back. Shortly after the restroom incident, I attempted to use one of the fitting rooms.While attempting to use the fitting room, I noticed that the employee at the counter was not very helpful. She was not willing to remove carts that were obstructing the pathway. The fitting rooms clearly have handicap access, but because of the employee’s unwillingness to assist me I was unable to take advantage of these facilities. The situation left me feeling so uncomfortable, that I gave her the clothes in my cart and went to another part of the store to continue my shopping. During my final thirty minutes in the store, I noticed a couple that kept howing up on the same aisles as me. The couple consisted of a man and a woman who was using crutches to maneuver around the store. Because the woman was on crutches, I assumed that they would be understanding and helpful to someone else who also had a handicap. I noticed that the man willingly assisted the woman whenever she needed help, but he would photograph me struggling to reach an item on the top shelf. His actions left me feeling confused, helpless, and embarrassed about being in a wheelchair.As my journey through Target was coming to a close, I had lost hope that genuinely nice people still existed, until two employees proved me wrong. As I approached the register and checked out, the cashier assisted me by removing the items from my cart. After I checked out and paid, she graciously placed the purchased ite ms back into my cart. Immediately after I checked out, a security guard approached me and asked if I needed any assistance. The security guard walked me to my car and helped load my purchases into my car.Before this experiment, I did not recognize how mean and heartless individuals could be to someone with a disability or handicap. This experiment has taught me to always help others. Regardless of how someone physically appears, everyone is the same on the inside. Everyone has a heart and emotions, and both can easily be destroyed by another’s inconsiderate actions. Because of what I have learned through this assignment, I will always try to lend a helping hand to those in need.

2009 DBQ AP World

For years after the Berlin Conference, various European powers raced to occupy and colonize land in Africa. It was a time of growth for Europe, but what was it for Africa? Africa’s fate was being decided for it by the European invaders. Not all AFricans just stood by and watcher, however. There was a wide range of actions and reactions to the Scramble for Africa from the Africans themselves, from giving in peacefully to attempting to fighting back with all of their might.Many Africans were afraid of European power, so they just gave in to the Scramble without a fight. In 1886, the British government commissioned the Royal Niger Company to administer and develop the Niger River delta. Many African rulers just signed their land away [doc. 1]. This document is official and provides no personal repost, so it is possible that the rulers did not give in entirely peacefully, all we know is that they gave in. A personal record of the Niger River delta dealing would help immensely to t ell how easily the rulers signed.Ashanti leader Prempeh turned down a British offer of protectorate status, but he said that the Ashanti would always remain friendly with all white men [doc. 2]. Ndansi Kumalo, an African veteran of the Ndebele Rebellion tells how at first his people surrendered to the British and tried to continue living their lives as they always had [doc. 4]. Samuel Maharero, a Herero leader, wrote to another African leader about how the Herero people were trying to be obedient and patient with the Germans [doc. 7].Many people in Africa just gave i to the changes occurring all around them. Not everywhere the Europeans went did they encounter this obedience and complacency. Many places people fought the invaders. The emperor of Ethiopia, Menelik II, wrote a letter to Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Russia in 1891 telling them he would not just sit by and watch if they continues parcelling off Africa [doc. 3]. Ndansi Kumalo tells how, after trying to live normally, his people could not stand the Europeans any more and they took up arms against the Europeans and rebelled [doc. ]. An Ethiopian painting of the Battle of Adowa shows the Ethiopians greatly overpowering the Italians and clearly winning the battle while suffering a very few casualties [doc. 5].This is an Ethiopian painting so the artist probably depicted the battle to make the Ethiopians look as good as possible. A document from the Italians about this battle would make it easier to pass judgement on it. The Ashanti queen mother, Yaa Asantena spoke to the Ashanti chiefs in 1900 telling them that if they would not fight the Europeans the Ashanti women would [doc. 6].Samuel Maherero said in his letter to another African leader that they should fight the Germans as it is better to die fighting for freedom than to die from maltreatment, imprisonment, or something similar [doc. 7]. A German military officer said about the 1905 Maji Maji REbellion that the chiefs told their peop le that they had a medicine thst would make them invincible so they could fight the Europeans for as long as necessary [doc 8].An African chief, Mojimba, described a battle in 1899 on the Congo River, saying that the battle just kept going and going that many, many Africans were killer [doc. ]. He also said that white men are very wicked. As an African who fought the Europeans and saw them kill many of his kin, Mojimba naturally thinks that the Europeans are wicker. This account of the battle was also given 30 years after the battle so it might not be entirely accurate. A European account would help to see this battle more clearly. The Scramble for Africa was a difficult time for Africans, some Africans fought for a chance at their freedom and others accepted their fate and peacefully gave into the Europeans ways.