The Views Of Mencius And Hsun-Tzu On Heaven Essays - Confucianism

The Views Of Mencius And Hsun-Tzu On Heaven November 17, 1999 The Views of Mencius and Hsun-tzu on Heaven. Mencius believes that it is our nature and mind that determine what we are. It is our fate that governs our fortunes and determines our lease on life. Fate was originally a patent to a fief-holder, given by the Son of Heaven as Heaven's deputy to a feudatory. In extended usage it became our lot in life - the fate ordained by heaven. While people guard their minds and determine their conduct, they cannot determine their fate, which is in Heaven's hands. So, Mencius believed that though all humans are innately good, the realization of that good comes with self-cultivation and self-knowledge. Hsun-tzu could not accept Mencius idealistic view of human nature, nor did he believe that Heaven was the sole arbiter of human behavior. He believed that the importance of humankind in the universe is equal to but different from the importance of Heaven and Earth: Heaven has its seasons, Earth has its riches and man has his culture. This is what is meant by the Trinity. Humanity's function is to utilize the resources of Heaven and Earth to create its own culture. This can be done through the strength acquired from social organization. However, because the social organization needs to be regulated, lest it break down, and because desires are many, but things are few, Hsun-tzu taught that people need to be restricted and guided by rules and morality. In my view of these two philosophers, I feel that Mencius' views are much more common in most religious traditions today. Mencius beliefs are a lot like Christianity, which is the religion that I am most familiar with. He believes that Heaven is a moral force whose mandate is to be respected and followed by human beings. We follow Heaven's mandate by knowing and nourishing our human nature. Our human nature is good. When you look at the Doctrine of four beginnings, Jen, Yi, Li, and Chih, when these are fully developed, you have a very wise and harmonious person. If you have nature you have Heaven. If no nature, no Heaven. This is self-cultivation. In my religious tradition if you do the will of God, you will receive eternal life (Heaven). Religion Essays

Stress and Emphasize

Stress and Emphasize Stress and Emphasize Stress and Emphasize By Maeve Maddox A reader says, Your thoughts re â€Å"stress† and â€Å"emphasize† would be appreciated. As transitive verbs, stress and emphasize are used interchangeably with the meaning â€Å"to accentuate or draw attention to.† For example: Employers  stress the need  for communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity. Speakers Stress Need to Consult More Closely with Contributors of Peacekeeping Personnel Avian Influenza Findings  Emphasize  the  Need  for Good Biosecurity. Council members  emphasize the need  to take action to develop the Former Bennett Freeze Area. The substitution of emphasize for stress in the context of language study would not be incorrect, but stress is the more common choice: The word present is a two-syllable word. If we stress the first syllable, it is a noun or an adjective. But if we  stress the second syllable, it becomes a verb. [In poetry scansion] a foot is an iamb if it consists of one unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable, so the word remark is an iamb. The verb stress has a third meaning unrelated to emphasize: â€Å"to subject [sub-JEKT] to hardship, affliction, or oppression.† Here are examples of this use: Teachers stressed by escalating demands Everyday Problems  Stress Teachers  the Most If youre a mom  of a child with autism, what most  stresses  you? Although the verb stress is sufficient, many speakers add the particle out: What Stresses Americans Out the Most? Tell us whats stressing  you  out, and  you  could win a $100 Taichi Wellness gift certificate. Stress and emphasize are interchangeable when the meaning is â€Å"to draw attention to† or â€Å"to accentuate,† but not when the meaning is â€Å"to make tense and anxious.† Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Vocabulary category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:16 Substitutes for â€Å"Because† or â€Å"Because Of†20 Rules About Subject-Verb AgreementA "Diploma" is not a "Degree"

Proposal for primary research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

For primary - Research Proposal Example The study considers whether having a standardised international marketing strategy, relevant for all international cultures, is effective for multi-national companies. The study tests whether convergence or the antithesis, divergence, is the prevalent decision-making phenomenon when comparing different national cultures. In order to determine whether ethnocentrism still dictates consumption decisions, the study takes a quantitative approach to research, utilising a survey constructed with a Likert-type scale which measures the level of ethnocentrism in five countries: The United States, Japan, Mexico, Sweden and Hong Kong. Questions provided in the survey include, â€Å"It is always best to purchase American products† and â€Å"Americans should not buy foreign products because it hurts American business and causes unemployment† (Keillor and Hult 1999, p.71) assists in determining whether global convergence is a legitimate phenomenon. The article finds that ethnocentrism is still present in some nations whilst in other nations with unique cultures, divergence in cultural identity is still prevalent. The study found that the U.S., Mexico and Hong Kong maintain high ethnocentrism when making product decisions whilst in Japan and Sweden, there is divergence of ethnocentrism that is not aligned with other evaluated nations. The study is further important as it suggests implications for today’s multi-national company marketers that using standardised marketing strategies will not be effective and refutes the notion that global convergence is a legitimate fact. This indicates that marketers operating in foreign nations should develop marketing communications that are sometimes aligned with existing cultural norms and preferences. This article lends support for the notion of global convergence as a result of cross-cultural exposure in India. The research study is important as it illustrates that Indian cultural

The study of the hip-hop culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The study of the hip-hop culture - Essay Example The study of the hip-hop culture Some of the professional fields concerned with the study of the hip-hop culture include musicology, literature, African-American studies, linguistics, and so forth (Leach, 9; Alridge and Stewart, 190). In academic and professional conferences, hip-hop culture topics are receiving a wider attention as people strive to understand this culture. Equally, hip-hop materials are currently being sought after by research institutions (including Harvard and Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture) to provide researchers with adequate materials in the analysis of the hip-hop culture (Leach, 9). This essay compares Eminem’s video for â€Å"The Real Slim Shady† with N.W.A.’s video for â€Å"Straight Outta Compton†. In the analysis of these different rap videos, the essay constructs an argument about how hip-hop has changed since its formation in the 1970s. Defining and Understanding Hip-hop and Rap Numerous people (including knowledgeable hip-hop writers and lis teners) do not understand the meanings of rap and hip-hop; particularly, many of these individuals think that the two are interchangeable. Nonetheless, hip-hop is a cultural movement originating from South Bronx, New York. It has four main/primary elements that include rap, graffiti, DJing (also known as turntablism), and break dancing. Other elements that are also part of the hip-hop culture include language, beat boxing, and fashion. Among these elements, rap is the most popular and the most celebrated element of the hip-hop culture. ... Rapping is also known as emceeing. In this hip-hop element, the rapper or the performer speaks rhythmically to a musical beat; his/her words rhyme from one sentence to the other. In the modern hip-hop perspective, an MC is different from a rapper. An MC is an individual with superior lyrical ability; on the other hand, a rapper focuses less on lyrical prowess. Particularly, this characteristic is evident in many of the mainstream rappers today (Aces and Eighths). Although it originated in New York, hip-hop has its roots in African-American and West African music. Griots are a group of West African singers and poets whose musical style is similar to that of the hip-hop culture. They have an oral tradition similar to the one in rap music; however, theirs dates back to hundreds of years. In the City of New York, griot-like musical performances from artists such as Mansur Nuriddin and The Last Poets influenced the post-civil rights era culture in the 1960s. In the 1970s, block parties be came common creating the humble beginnings of the hip-hop culture (Aces and Eighths). â€Å"The Real Slim Shady† by Eminem â€Å"The Real Slim Shady† is a hip-hop song done by Marshall Bruce Mathers III who is popular by the name Eminem. In the process of writing this song, Eminem sought assistance from Andre Romelle Young (popular by the name Dr. Dre) and Thomas Joseph Coster Junior (popular by the name Tommy Coster Jr). Eminem was writing this song for his third studio album â€Å"The Marshall Mathers LP† released on 23 May 2000. This song was the lead single in this album. The song was highly successful as it reached number one in UK (United Kingdom) and number four on the â€Å"Billboard Hot

Resistance to Change Essay Example for Free

Resistance to Change Essay The formula states that, to overcome the resistance to change, these three components must all be present (dissatisfaction, vision, and first steps). An organization must have dissatisfaction with the current situation, a vision of the possibilities the future can bring, and attainable first steps to reach the vision. â€Å"If any of the three is zero or near zero, the product will also be zero or near zero and the resistance to change will dominate† (Rouda Kusy, 1995). One of the models of OD interventions is Action Research. It follows three major procedures. First, data would be collected regarding the current system in relation to the objective, goal, or need of that system. Then, selected variables within the system would be altered based on the research. Finally, the results would be evaluated (French Bell, 1990 cited in Rouda Kusy, 1995). On the other hand, training and development (TD) is a learning process that involves a systematic development of individuals’ expertise to improve the performance of the individual and the organization (Swanson, 2003; Rouda Kusy, 1996). The desired results of TD can be classified into four categories: reaction, learning, behavior or performance, and outcome or results. Reaction involves the evaluation of the training program (e. g. , trainee satisfaction). Learning focuses on the change in the participants after the training (e. g. , change in skills, knowledge, or attitudes). Behavior or performance is the application of learning gained from the training to the job or organization. Finally, outcomes or results relate the impact of training on the productivity and profitability of the organization. TD is usually evaluated using the last two categories, i. e. , the transfer of learning to the success of the organization and its overall impact on the organization (Kirkpatrick, 1983 cited in Rouda Kusy, 1996). For effective and efficient training, a planned instructional systems design (ISD) process is implemented for the assessment, design, development, implementation and evaluation of training. ISD begins with organizational needs assessment, which involves â€Å"surveying, identifying and prioritizing training needs, analyzing the causes of performance problems and opportunities, and identifying possible solutions. † Needs assessment is necessary to determine if the training will be cost-effective and if it is the appropriate solution (Rouda Kusy, 1996). The training design should include an analysis of the learners’ characteristics, the place where work will be performed, and the expected tasks and duties to be performed by the trainees. A complete review of the subject matter should also be conducted and the goals and performance objectives of the training must be established. A plan to evaluate the training should be devised and the instructional materials and strategies must be obtained, prepared, and pre-tested. Factors Affecting the Future Trends of HRD Practices A study was conducted by Ruona and her colleagues (2002) to identify the factors affecting the practice of HRD and its role in the future. Results showed that globalization, technology, changing organization and workforce demographics, and the ability of HRD to keep up with the changes in the environment are the forces that influence HRD. The prevalence of globalization requires HRD practitioners to understand and integrate further intercultural practices in the organization, as opposed to imposing a western view on individuals in other countries. The rapid technological development, on the other hand, would have a significant impact on learning practices, such as e-learning and virtual offices. Hopkins and her associates (2006) added that the scarcity of computer literate employees poses an overwhelming challenge in creating HRD programs, as it hampers instruction and learning process. Meanwhile, as globalization and technology prompt changes in the organization, the workforce demographics have become increasingly diversified, driving the force that would revolutionize HRD practices. Thus, there is a need to examine whether current HRD practices of an organization have the ability to adapt to the changing conditions in the organization (Ruona, et al. , 2002). Changes in the role of HRD in future were also identified. The findings of the study revealed that learning, change and organization system, and knowledge management and creation are the key roles of HRD in an organization. HRD practitioners identified learning and human development as the highest competitive advantage of the field. They emphasized the importance of the effective use and systematic integration of learning methodologies in the organization. They urge HRD to focus on creating cultures that would foster an environment that is truly conducive to learning, such as assigning challenging tasks and implementing reward systems that encourage learning. The rapid changes taking place in the organization also require HRD practitioners to assist people to overcome their resistance to the changes. These people also need to be assisted in coping up with the changes. Future trends also dictate that HRD must fulfill its role in creating and managing knowledge to prevent information overload (Ruona, et al. , 2002). Conclusion Akdere, M. Conceicao, S. (2006). Integration of human resource development and adult education theories and practices: Implications for organizational learning. Academy of Human Resource Development International Conference Proceedings, 295-301. Columbus, Ohio De Silva, S. Human resource development for competitiveness: a priority for employers. Geneva: ILO, 1998

Essay --

The Last Lecture is a powerful and inspirational book written by a Professor of Computer Science, Randy Pausch. The book is a memoir of his life based on the last lecture he gave at Carnegie Mellon University about a year before he died of pancreatic cancer. Although, it was his last lecture, it is clear that the lecture itself is not about dying. Similarly, the book is not about Pausch’s death. The book consists of various stories from Randy’s Pausch life, and ideas on living life to the fullest. In this paper, I will review Pausch story, and identify issues, concerns, and possibilities discussed in the book. Further, I will explore what needs to be done in respond to these issues. Book overview In the beginning of the book, Pausch reveals that he is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and his recent treatments did not work, so he has only months to live. â€Å"While for the most part I’m in terrific physical shape, I have ten tumors in my liver and I have only a few months left to live. I am a father of three young children, and married to the woman of my dreams. While I could easily feel sorry for myself, that wouldn’t do them, or me, any good† (Pausch, 2008). Knowing that he has a very limited time to live, Pausch decides to write a lecture on achieving childhood dreams. To him, the lecture will be a legacy that he can leave for his children. When Pausch discusses his childhood dreams, he describes how his parents made achieving his dreams possible by their constant support. He talks about each of his childhood dreams and what he has learned from them. Pausch never made it to the NFL, but he had learned many valuable lessons from participating in sports. For instance, Pausch learned important lessons from his... ...g dealers or gang dealers (Rudkin, 2003). Conclusion This paper is a report of the book The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. In my work I made an attempt to identify issues, concerns, and possibilities discussed in the book, and to explore what needs to be done in respond to these issues. The book is a memoir of Pausch’s life in which he shares his wisdom about how to live a productive and meaningful life. The lessons, questions and issues that this book raise are universal. Many people can benefit from the book regardless of their age, race, or social status. I cannot express how much I enjoyed this book. Randy’s Pausch life is a truly unique powerful story that can serve as a guide for families, schools, and community leaders on how to help our children develop the skills of resilience to deal more effectively with stress, and to cope with everyday challenges.

European Management

Generally, there are two types of customers in the wedding band business. One of them is a couple who is getting engaged or getting married and therefore needs a wedding band to wear it life-long; the second type of customers is a couple who decides to change their wedding bands and buy a new one. 1. 1 Description of Values, Strategy, Mission & Vision, and Actual Business & In this part of our work we give you the description of the company in the general meaning, as well as its values, vision and mission. Moreover, we analyze its actual usiness and management model.Every company in the world should have its own values. It means that companies are guided by some principles and internal conducts. Moreover, all of the companies are connected to their customers, partners, shareholders, and etc. In order to attract or influence those stakeholders companies usually state their vision and mission (BusinessDictionary, n. d. ). The values of the company Rubin Alyans are gold wedding bands an d solitaire rings. Those products are very important for the company and also for the buyers as they are the customers of the companys customers, the so- called end-users.Traditionally in many countries married couples wear wedding bands to show or announce to the world that they are married. The fact that the company value is also a multicultural sign decides any action and strategy. Another value of the company is there special packages as including nice presents for the couples. The strategy of this company is highly sensitive on the quality of the products because its products are mostly worn during the day and night, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There is no other product that a person wears on him or her such a long time. The vision of the company is much more competitive.They are lucky to be in a competition in which other companies compete with their price and not many of them have a strange and unpredictable vision. So the company would like to stay with their competitiv e advantages, increase them in the future. Their future vision is also to grow, therefore first become a mid-sized and then a big-sized company in order to expand also more into foreign countries; to increase the possibility of targeting new countries more easily due to financial terms. The company mission is to produce and sell wedding bands to the couples that they can wear lifelong without any complaints.The way to success in their business is to make the high quality wedding band with the elegance and simple design. The simplicity of the ring is important because for many people it is difficult to choose the wedding ring which they would admire forever. Those who decide and buy the product know very well that the choice is very important. Besides all of the strategies and marketing plans, the most important function in Jewellery business is that the product has a change value as it is operating in the gold business. The accuracy that you mark inside the ring should be correct wi th the ring's.Better to explain by an example: When you mark 14K in the ring the accuracy should be 585 which is the gram percentage of the gold in 1 kg. If it is less than the marked one, it has a serious penalty and besides everything mentioned, whatever we do we always have to be sure of the gold accuracy of ring. 1. 1. 2 Actual Business Model This company fills rather the criteria of an actual business model than of a traditional business model due to the following reasons. 2 The process of creating golden rings is based on market needs, so to say on the actual demands of customers.The customers demand for the rings and therefore, edding bands are developed, created, and at least produced. Hence, the demand for brand capital is high. We can see a customer-focus because they are those who decide how their final wedding ring will look like. The wedding rings are created according to the customers. To be aware of the need of customization in this business is a very important factor to be successful in the gold industry. It is also possible to imply that there is a high demand for human capital.