A Dirty Job Chapter 23

23 A FUCKED-UP DAY It was a fucked-up day in the City by the Bay. At first light, flocks of vultures perched on the superstructures of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, and glared down at commuters as if they had a lot of goddamn gall to still be alive and driving. Traffic copters that were diverted to photograph the ranks of carrion birds ended up covering a spiral cloud of bats that circled the Transamerica pyramid for ten minutes, then seemed to evaporate into a black mist that floated out over the Bay. Three swimmers who had been competing in the San Francisco Triathlon drowned in the Bay, and a helicopter camera photographed something under the water, a dark shape approaching one of the swimmers from below and dragging him under. Numerous replays of the tape revealed that rather than the sleek shape of a shark, the creature had a wide wingspan and a distinctly horned head, unlike any ray or skate that anyone had ever seen before. The ducks in Golden Gate Park suddenly took to the wing and left the area, the hundreds of sea lions that normally lounged in the sun down at Pier 39 were gone as well, and even the pigeons seemed to have disappeared from the City. A grunt reporter who had been covering the overnight police blotter noticed the coincidence of seven reports of violence or missing persons at local-area secondhand stores, and by early evening the television stations were mentioning it, along with spectacular footage of the Book 'em Danno building burning in the Mission. And there were hundreds of singular events experienced by individuals: creatures moving in the shadows, voices and screams from the sewer grates, milk souring, cats scratching owners, dogs howling, and a thousand people woke up to find that they no longer cared for the taste of chocolate. It was a fucked-up day. Charlie spent the rest of the night fretting and checking locks, then double-checking them, then looking on the Internet for clues about the Underworlders, just in case someone posted a brand-new ancient document since he'd last checked. He wrote a will, and several letters, which he walked outside and put in the mailbox out on the street rather than with the outgoing mail on the counter of the store. Then, around dawn, completely exhausted yet with his Beta Male imagination racing at a thousand miles an hour, he took two of the sleeping pills Jane had given him and slept through the fucked-up day, to be awakened in early evening by a call from his darling daughter. â€Å"Hello.† â€Å"Aunt Cassie is an anti-Semite,† said Sophie. â€Å"Honey, it's six in the morning. Can we discuss Aunt Cassie's politics a little later?† â€Å"It is not, it's six at night. It's bath time, and Aunt Cassie won't let me bring Alvin and Mohammed into the bathroom with me for my bath, because she's an anti-Semite.† Charlie looked at his watch. He was sort of glad that it was six in the evening and he was talking to his daughter. Whatever happened while he was sleeping at least hadn't affected that. â€Å"Cassie is not an anti-Semite.† It was Jane on the other line. â€Å"Is too,† said Sophie. â€Å"Be careful, Daddy, Aunt Jane is an anti-Semite sympathizer.† â€Å"I am not,† Jane said. â€Å"Listen to how smart my daughter is,† said Charlie. â€Å"I didn't know words like anti-Semite and sympathizer when I was her age, did you?† â€Å"You can't trust the goyim, Daddy,† said Sophie. She lowered her voice to a whisper. â€Å"They hate baths, the goyim.† â€Å"Daddy's a goyim, too, baby.† â€Å"Oh my God, they're everywhere, like pod people!† He heard his daughter drop the phone, scream, and then a door slammed. â€Å"Sophie, you unlock this door this instant,† Cassie said in the background. Jane said, â€Å"Charlie, where does she get this stuff? Are you teaching her this?† â€Å"It's Mrs. Korjev – she's descended from Cossacks and she has a little residual guilt for what her ancestors did to the Jews.† â€Å"Oh,† Jane said, not interested now that she couldn't blame Charlie. â€Å"Well, you shouldn't let the dogs in the bathroom with her. They eat the soap and sometimes they get in the tub, and then – â€Å" â€Å"Let them go with her, Jane,† Charlie interrupted. â€Å"They may be the only thing that can protect her.† â€Å"Okay, but I'm only letting them eat the cheap soaps. No French-milled soaps.† â€Å"They're fine with domestic soap, Jane. Look, I drew up a holographic will last night. If something happens to me, I want you to raise Sophie. It's in there.† Jane didn't answer. He could hear her breathing on the other end. â€Å"Jane?† â€Å"Sure, sure. Of course. What the hell is going on with you guys? What's the big danger Sophie's in? Why are you being spooky like this? And why didn't you call earlier, you fucker?† â€Å"I was up all night doing stuff. Then I took two of those sleeping pills you gave me. Suddenly twelve hours are gone.† â€Å"You took two? Never take two.† â€Å"Yeah, thanks,† Charlie said. â€Å"Anyway, I'm sure I'll be okay, but if for some reason I'm not, you need to take Sophie and get out of the City for a while. I mean like up in the Sierras. I also sent you a letter explaining everything, as much as I know, anyway. Only open it if something happens, okay?† â€Å"Nothing better happen, you fuck. I just lost Mom, and I – why the hell are you talking like this, Charlie? What kind of trouble are you in?† â€Å"I can't tell you, Jane. You have to trust me that I didn't have any choice in the matter.† â€Å"How can I help?† â€Å"By doing exactly what you're doing, taking care of Sophie, keeping her safe, and keeping the hellhounds with her at all times.† â€Å"Okay, but nothing better happen to you. Cassie and I are going to get married and I want you to give me away. And I want to borrow your tux, too. It's Armani, right?† â€Å"No, Jane.† â€Å"You won't give me away?† â€Å"No, no, it's not that, I'd pay her to take you, it's not that.† â€Å"Then you don't think that gay people should be allowed to get married, is that it? You're finally coming clean. I knew it, after all – â€Å" â€Å"I just don't think that gay people should be allowed to get married wearing my tux.† â€Å"Oh,† Jane said. â€Å"You'll wear my Armani tux and I'll have to rent some piece of crap or buy something new and cheap, and then I'll go through eternity looking like a total dork in the wedding pictures. I know how you guys like to show wedding pictures – it's like a disease.† â€Å"By ‘you guys,' you mean lesbians?† Jane said, sounding very much like a prosecuting attorney. â€Å"Yes, I mean lesbians, dumbfuck,† said Charlie, sounding very much like a hostile witness. â€Å"Oh, okay,† Jane said. â€Å"It is my wedding, I guess I can buy a tux.† â€Å"That would be nice,† Charlie said. â€Å"I'm sort of needing the pants cut a little looser in the seat these days anyway,† Jane said. â€Å"Thatta girl.† â€Å"So you'll be safe and give me away.† â€Å"I'll sure try. You think Cassandra will let me bring the little Jewish kid?† Jane laughed. â€Å"Call me every hour,† she said. â€Å"I won't do that.† â€Å"Okay, when you can.† â€Å"Yeah,† Charlie said. â€Å"Bye.† He smiled to himself and rolled out of bed, wondering if this might be the last time he would ever do that. Smile. Charlie showered, ate a peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich, and put on a thousand-dollar suit for which he had paid forty bucks. He limped around the bedroom for a few minutes and decided that his leg felt pretty good and he could do without the foam walking cast, so he left it on the floor by the bed. He put on a pot of coffee and called Inspector Rivera. â€Å"It was a fucked-up day,† Rivera said. â€Å"Charlie, you need to take your daughter and get out of town.† â€Å"I can't do that. This is about me. You'll keep me informed, right?† â€Å"Promise you won't try to do anything stupid or heroic?† â€Å"Not in my DNA, Inspector. I'll call you if I see anything.† Charlie disconnected, having no idea what he was going to do, but feeling like he had to do something. He called Jane's house to say good night to Sophie. â€Å"I just want you to know that I love you very much, honey.† â€Å"Me, too, Daddy. Why did you call?† â€Å"What, you have a meeting or something?† â€Å"We're having ice cream.† â€Å"That's nice. Look, Sophie, Daddy has to go do some things, so I want you to stay with Aunt Jane for a few days, okay?† â€Å"Okay. Do you need some help? I'm free.† â€Å"No, honey, but thank you.† â€Å"Okay, Daddy. Alvin is looking at my ice cream. He looks hungry, like bear. I have to go.† â€Å"Love you, honey.† â€Å"Love you, Daddy.† â€Å"Apologize to Aunt Cassie for calling her an anti-Semite.† â€Å"‘Kay.† Click. She hung up on him. The apple of his eye, the light of his life, his pride and joy, hung up on him. He sighed, but felt better. Heartbreak is the natural habitat of the Beta Male. Charlie took a few minutes in the kitchen to sharpen the edge of the sword-cane on the back of the electric can opener he and Rachel had received as a wedding present, then he headed out to check on the store. As soon as he opened the door to the back staircase Charlie heard strange animal noises coming from the store. It sounded as if they were coming from the back room, and there were no lights on, although he could see plenty of light filtering in from the store. Was this it? Sort of solved the problem of what he was going to do. He drew the sword from his cane and crept down the stairs in a crouch, moving along the edge of each step to minimize squeakage. Halfway down he saw the source of the animal noises and he recoiled, leaping nearly halfway back up the staircase. â€Å"For the love of God!† â€Å"It needed to be done,† Lily said. She was astraddle Ray Macy, her plaid pleated skirt (mercifully) draped out over him, covering the parts that would have caused Charlie to have to tear his eyes out, which he was thinking about doing anyway. â€Å"It did,† Ray agreed breathlessly. Charlie peeked down into the back room – they were still at it, Lily riding Ray like he was a mechanical bull, one bare breast bouncing out of the lapel of her chef ‘s coat. â€Å"He was despondent,† she said. â€Å"I found him giving himself hickies with the shop vac. It's for the greater good, Asher.† â€Å"Well, stop it,† Charlie said. â€Å"No, no, no, no, no,† said Ray. â€Å"It's a charity thing,† Lily said. â€Å"You know, Lily,† Charlie said, covering his eyes, â€Å"you could exercise your charity in other ways, like Salvation Army Santa or something.† â€Å"I don't want to fuck those guys. Most of them are raging alcoholics, and they stink. At least Ray is clean.† â€Å"I don't mean do one, I mean be one. Ring the bell with the little red kettle. Jeez.† â€Å"I am clean,† said Ray. â€Å"You shut up,† Charlie said. â€Å"She's young enough to be your daughter.† â€Å"He was suicidal,† Lily said. â€Å"I may be saving his life.† â€Å"She is,† Ray said. â€Å"Shut up, Ray,† Charlie said. â€Å"This is pathetic, desperate pity sex, that's all it is.† â€Å"He knows that,† Lily said. â€Å"I don't mind,† said Ray. â€Å"I'm doing this for the cause, too,† Lily said. â€Å"Ray was holding out on you.† â€Å"I was?† said Ray. â€Å"How?† Charlie said. â€Å"He found a woman who was buying all the soul vessels. She was with the clients you missed. Somewhere in the Mission. He wasn't going to tell you about her.† â€Å"I don't know what you're talking about,† Ray said. Then added, â€Å"Faster, please.† â€Å"Tell him the address,† Lily said. â€Å"Lily,† Charlie said, â€Å"this isn't really necessary.† â€Å"No,† Ray said. There was a loud smack. Charlie opened his eyes. They were still there, doing it, but Ray's right cheek was bright red and Lily was winding up to slap him again. â€Å"Tell him!† â€Å"It's on Guerrero Street, between Eighteenth and Nineteenth, I don't know the number, but it's a big green Victorian, you can't miss it. Three Jewels Buddhist Center.† SMACK! â€Å"Ouch, I told him,† Ray whined. â€Å"That's for not getting the address, BITCH!† Lily said. Then to Charlie: â€Å"There you go, Asher. I want a prime position when you take over the Underworld!† Charlie thought that one of the first things he was going to change when he took over was expanding The Great Big Book of Death to include how to handle situations like this. But instead he said, â€Å"You got it, Lily. You'll be in charge of dress code and torture.† â€Å"Sweet,† Lily said. â€Å"‘Scuse me, Asher, I have to finish this.† Then to Ray: â€Å"Hear that? No more flannel shirts for you, grommet!† SMACK! The grunts coming from Ray increased in frequency and intensity. â€Å"Sure,† Charlie said. â€Å"I'll just go out the other door.† â€Å"See ya,† Ray said. â€Å"I'm never going to look either one of you in the eye again, okay?† â€Å"Sounds good, Asher,† Lily said. â€Å"Be careful.† Charlie crept back up the steps, went out the front door of his apartment and down the elevator to the street entrance, suppressing his gag reflex the whole way. On the street he flagged down a cab and rode into the Mission, trying to wipe the image of his shagging employees out of his mind. The Morrigan had followed the gift souls that had escaped through the drains to a deserted street in the Mission. Now they waited, watching the green Victorian building from storm-drain grates at either end of the street. They were more cautious now, their rapacious nature having been dampened somewhat by having been severely blown up the night before. They called them the gift souls because the little patchwork creatures brought the souls right to them in the sewers – the gifts showing up in the Morrigan's weakest moment. After the accursed Boston terrier had chased them through miles of pipelines, leaving them battered and exhausted on a high ledge at a pipe junction, along marched twenty or so of the darling little nightmares, all dressed up in finery and carrying just what they needed to heal their wounds and replenish their strength: human souls. And thus renewed, they were able to scare away that obnoxious little dog. The Morrigan were back – not to the strength they'd achieved before the explosion, maybe not even enough to fly, but certainly enough to venture Above once again, especially with so many souls at hand. No one was out on the streets tonight except the junkies, the hookers, and the homeless. After the fucked-up day in the City, most everyone had decided that it was just a better idea to stay in, safer. To the Morrigan (for all they cared), they were safer in their homes the same way a tuna fish is safer in a can, but no one knew that yet. No one knew what they were hiding from except Charlie Asher, and he was getting out of a cab right in front of them as they watched. â€Å"It's New Meat,† said Macha. â€Å"We should give him a new name,† said Babd. â€Å"I mean, he's really not that new anymore.† â€Å"Hush,† hushed Macha. â€Å"Hey, lover,† Babd called out of her drain. â€Å"Did you miss me?† Charlie paid the cabbie and stood in the middle of the street looking at the big jade-green Queen Anne. There were lights on in the turret upstairs and in one window downstairs. He could just make out the sign that read THREE JEWELS BUDDHIST CENTER. He started to step toward the house and saw movement in the lattice under the porch – eyes shining. A cat maybe. His cell phone rang and he flipped it open. â€Å"Charlie, it's Rivera. I have some good news; we found Carrie Long, the woman from the pawnshop, and she's still alive. She was tied up and thrown in a Dumpster a block from her store.† â€Å"That's great,† Charlie said. But he wasn't feeling great. The things that had been moving under the porch were coming out. Moving up the stairs, standing on the porch, lining up and facing him. Twenty or thirty of them, a little more than a foot tall, dressed in ornate period costumes. Each had the skeletal face of a dead animal, cats, foxes, badgers – animals Charlie couldn't identify, but just the skulls – the eye sockets empty, black. Yet they stared. â€Å"You won't believe what she said put her there, Charlie. Little creatures, little monsters, she said.† â€Å"About fourteen inches tall,† Charlie said. â€Å"Yeah, how'd you know?† â€Å"Lots of teeth and claws, like animal parts stuck together, all dressed up like they were going to a grand costume ball?† â€Å"What are you telling me, Charlie? What do you know?† â€Å"Just guessing,† Charlie said. He unclipped the latch on his sword-cane. â€Å"Hey, lover,† came a female voice from behind him. â€Å"Did you miss me?† Charlie turned. She was crawling out of the drain almost directly behind him. â€Å"The bad news,† Rivera said, â€Å"is we found the junk dealer and the bookstore guy from Book 'em Danno – pieces of them.† â€Å"That is bad news,† Charlie said. He started moving up the street, away from the sewer harpy and the porch full of Satan's sock puppets. â€Å"New Meat,† came a voice from up the street. Charlie looked to see another sewer harpy coming out of the drain, her eyes gleaming black in the streetlight. Behind him he heard the clacking of little animal teeth. â€Å"Charlie, I still think you should leave town for a while, but if you don't, and don't tell anyone I told you this, you should get a gun, maybe a couple of guns.† â€Å"I think that would be a great idea,† Charlie said. The two sewer harpies were moving very slowly toward him, awkwardly, as if their nerves were short-circuiting. The one closest to him, the one from the alley in North Beach, was licking her lips. She looked a little ragged compared to the night she'd seduced him. He moved up the street away from them. â€Å"A shotgun, so you won't need to learn to shoot. I can't give you one, but – â€Å" â€Å"Inspector, I'm going to have to get back to you.† â€Å"I'm serious, Charlie, whatever these things are, they are going after your kind.† â€Å"You have no idea how clear that is to me, Inspector.† â€Å"Is that the one who shot me?† said the closest harpy. â€Å"Tell him I'm going to suck his eyeballs out of the sockets and chew them in his ear.† â€Å"You get that, Inspector?† Charlie said. â€Å"She's there?† â€Å"They,† Charlie said. â€Å"This way, Meat,† said the third sewer harpy, coming out of the drain at the far end of the block. She stood, extended her claws, and flicked a line of venom down the side of a parked car. The paint sizzled and ran where it hit. â€Å"Where are you, Charlie? Where are you?† â€Å"I'm in the Mission. Near the Mission.† The little creatures were coming down the steps now, down the walk toward the street. â€Å"Look,† said a harpy, â€Å"he brought presents.† â€Å"Charlie, where exactly are you?† said Rivera. â€Å"Gotta go, Inspector.† Charlie flipped the phone closed and dropped it in his coat pocket. Then he drew the sword from the cane and turned to the harpy from the alley. â€Å"For you,† he said to her, whipping the sword in a flourish through the air. â€Å"That's sweet,† she said. â€Å"You always think about my needs.† The 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham was the perfect show-off of death machines. It consisted of nearly three tons of steel stamped into a massively mawed, high-tailed beast, lined with enough chrome to build a Terminator and still have parts left over – most of it in long, sharp strips that peeled off on impact and became lethal scythes to flay away pedestrian flesh. Under the four headlights it sported two chrome bumper bullets that looked like unexploded torpedoes or triple-G-cup Madonna death boobs. It had a noncollapsible steering column that would impale the driver upon any serious impact, electric windows that could pinch off a kid's head, no seat belts, and a 325 horsepower V8 with such appallingly bad fuel efficiency that you could hear it trying to slurp liquefied dinosaurs out of the ground when it passed. It had a top speed of a hundred and ten miles an hour, mushy, bargelike suspension that could in no way stabilize the car at that speed, and undersized power brake s that wouldn't stop it either. The fins jutting from the back were so high and sharp that the car was a lethal threat to pedestrians even when parked, and the whole package sat on tall, whitewall tires that looked, and generally handled, like oversized powdered doughnuts. Detroit couldn't have achieved more deadly finned ostentatia if they'd covered a killer whale in rhinestones. It was a masterpiece. And the reason you need to know all that, is that along with the battle-worn Morrigan and the well-dressed chimeras, a '57 Eldorado was rapidly approaching Charlie. The bloodred lacquered Eldo slid around the corner, tires screaming like flaming peacocks, hubcaps spinning off toward the curb, engine roaring, spewing blue smoke out of the rear wheel wells like a flatulent dragon. The first of the Morrigan turned in time to take a bumper bullet in the thigh before she was dragged and folded under the car and spit out the back into a black heap. The headlights came on and the Caddy veered toward the Morrigan nearest Charlie. The animal creatures scurried back up the sidewalk and Charlie ran up onto the hood of a parked Honda as the Eldo smacked the second Morrigan. She rag-doll-whipped over the hood as the car's brakes screamed, then flew twenty yards down the street. The Caddy peeled out and hit her again, this time rolling over her with a series of thumps and leaving her tossing down the tarmac, shedding pieces as she rolled. The Caddy blazed on toward the final Morrigan. This one had a few seconds on her sisters and started running up the street, her shape changing, arms to wings, tail feathers trying to manifest, but she didn't seem able to make the transformation in time to fly. The Eldo plowed over her, then hit the brakes, reversed, and burned rubber on her back. Charlie ran up on the roof of the Honda, ready to leap away from the street, but the Caddy stopped and the blacked-out electric window wound down. â€Å"Get the fuck in the car,† said Minty Fresh. Minty Fresh hit the final Morrigan again as he speeded off down the block, took two screeching lefts, then pulled the car to the curb, jumped out, and ran around to the front. â€Å"Oh, goddamn,† said Minty Fresh (damn on the downbeat, with pain and sustain). â€Å"Goddamn, my hood and grille are all fucked up. Goddamn. I will tolerate the rising of darkness to cover the world, but you do not fuck with my ride.† He jumped back in the car, threw it into gear, and screeched around the next corner. â€Å"Where are you going?† â€Å"I'm going to run over the bitches again. You do not fuck with my ride.† â€Å"Well, what did you think would happen when you ran them over?† â€Å"Not this. I never ran over anyone before. Don't act like that's a surprise.† Charlie looked at the gleaming interior of the car, the bloodred leather seats, the dash fitted with walnut burl and gold-plated knobs. â€Å"This is a great car. My mailman would love this car.† â€Å"Your mailman?† â€Å"He collects vintage pimp wear.† â€Å"So what are you trying to say?† â€Å"Nothing.† They were already on Guerrero Street and Minty floored it as they approached the target block. The first Morrigan he had hit was just getting to her knees when he hit her again, knocking her over two parked cars and into the side of a vacant building. The second one turned to face them and bared her claws, which raked the hood as he rolled over her with a drumroll of thumps, then he ran over the third one's legs as she was crawling back into the storm sewer. â€Å"Jeez,† Charlie said, turning and looking out the back window. Minty Fresh seemed to turn his full attention to driving safely now. â€Å"What the hell are those things?† â€Å"I call them sewer harpies. They're the things that call to us from the storm sewers. They're a lot stronger now than they used to be.† â€Å"They're scary is what they are,† said Minty. â€Å"I don't know,† Charlie said. â€Å"Have you gotten a good look at them? I mean, they got the badonkadonk out back and some fine bajoopbadangs up front, know what I'm sayin', dog? Buss a rock wid a playa?† He offered his fist for Minty to buss him a rock, but alas, the mint one left him hangin'. â€Å"Stop that,† Fresh said. â€Å"Sorry,† Charlie said. â€Å"Talk Like a Playa in Ten Days or Less – Stone Thug Edition?† Minty asked. Charlie nodded. â€Å"We got the CD into the store a couple of months ago. I practice in the van. How am I doing?† â€Å"Your Negro-osity is uncanny. I had to keep checking to make sure you're still white.† â€Å"Thanks,† Charlie said, then, as if a light went on: â€Å"Hey, I've been looking for you – where the hell have you been?† â€Å"Hiding out. One of those things came after me on the BART a few nights ago when I was coming back from Oakland.† â€Å"How'd you get away?† â€Å"Those little animal things, a bunch of them attacked her in the dark. I could hear her screaming at them, tearing them to ribbons, but they held her off until the train pulled into the station, which was full of people. She bolted back into the tunnel. There were pieces of the animal creatures everywhere in the train car.† Minty turned onto Van Ness and started heading toward Charlie's side of town. â€Å"So they helped you? They're not part of the Underworlders trying to take over?† â€Å"They don't appear to be. They saved my ass.† â€Å"So you know some of the Death Merchants have been killed?† â€Å"I didn't know. It wasn't in the paper. I saw where Anton's shop burned up last night. He didn't make it out?† â€Å"They found pieces of him,† Charlie said. â€Å"Charlie, I think I caused this.† Minty Fresh turned and really looked at Charlie for the first time, his golden eyes looking forlorn. â€Å"I failed to collect my last two soul vessels, and all of this started.† â€Å"I thought it was me,† Charlie said. â€Å"I missed two as well. But I don't think it's us. My two clients are alive, I think they're in that house where I was going when you saved me: the Three Jewels Buddhist Center. There's a woman there who's been buying up soul vessels, too.† â€Å"Cute brunette?† Minty asked. â€Å"I don't know. Why?† â€Å"She bought some from me, too. Tried to disguise herself, but it was her.† â€Å"Well, she's in that house back there. I've got to go back there.† â€Å"I don't want anything to do with those bitches with the claws,† Minty said. â€Å"True dat,† Charlie said. â€Å"I had a thing with one of them.† â€Å"No.† â€Å"Yeah, she got all up in my grille and shit – had to cut da ho loose.† â€Å"Stop that.† â€Å"Sorry. Anyway, I've got to go back.† â€Å"You sure? I don't think they're dead. Doesn't look like they can be dead.† â€Å"You could run over them again. By the way, how did you know where to find me?† â€Å"After I heard about Anton's place burning, I tried to call him and got a disconnected message, so I went to your store. I talked to that little Goth girl you have working for you. She told me where you went. Talked to her for about ten minutes. She knows about me – I mean us? The Death Merchants?† â€Å"Yes, I told her a long time ago. Wasn't she, uh, busy when you got there? With a guy, I mean.† â€Å"No. She seeing anyone?† â€Å"I thought you were gay?† â€Å"I never said that.† â€Å"Yeah, but you didn't go out of your way to deny it either.† â€Å"Charlie, I run a music store in the Castro, I'd do more business as a gay Death Merchant than a straight shopkeeper.† â€Å"Good point. I never thought of that.† â€Å"Color me surprised. So, she seeing anyone?† â€Å"She's half your age and I think she's a little twisted – sexually, I mean.† â€Å"So is she seeing anyone?† â€Å"She's like a little sister to me, Fresh. Don't you have employees like that?† â€Å"Have you never met anyone who works in a record store? There's no greater repository of unjustified arrogance in the world. I'd poison my employees if I thought I could find replacements.† â€Å"I don't think she's seeing anybody, but since the world is about to be taken over by the Forces of Darkness, you may not have time for dating.† â€Å"I don't know. She seems like she might have an in with the Forces of Darkness. I like her, she's funny in a sort of macabre way, and she likes Miles.† â€Å"Lily likes Miles Davis?† â€Å"You don't know that about your little sister?† Charlie threw his hands up. â€Å"Take her, use her, throw her away, I don't care, she's only part-time. You can date my daughter, too. She's going to be six and probably loves Coltrane for all I know.† â€Å"Calm down, you're overreacting.† â€Å"Just turn around and take me back to that Buddhist center. I've got to stop this thing. It's all on me, Fresh. I'm the Luminatus.† â€Å"You are not.† â€Å"I am,† Charlie said. â€Å"You're the Great Death – with a capital D? You? You know this to be true?† â€Å"I do,† Charlie said. â€Å"I knew there was something different about you, but I thought that the Luminatus would be – I don't know – taller.† â€Å"Don't start with that, okay.† Minty swung the car off Van Ness into a hotel turnaround. â€Å"Where are you going?† Charlie said. â€Å"To run over some sewer harpies again.† â€Å"Back to the Buddhist center?† â€Å"Uh-huh. You have any weapons besides that stupid sword?† â€Å"My cop friend told me I should get a gun.† Minty Fresh reached into his moss-green jacket and came out with the biggest pistol Charlie had ever seen. He placed it on the seat. â€Å"Take it. Desert Eagle fifty-caliber. It'll stop a bear.† Charlie picked up the chrome-plated pistol. It weighed like five pounds and the barrel looked big enough to stick your thumb in. â€Å"This thing is huge.† â€Å"I'm a big guy. Listen, it holds eight shots. There's a round in the chamber. You have to cock it and release the safety before you fire. There and there.† He pointed to the safety and the hammer. â€Å"Hold on to it if you have to shoot. It will knock you on your ass if you're not ready.† â€Å"What about you?† Minty patted the other side of his coat. â€Å"I have another one.† Charlie turned the gun in his hand and watched the streetlights playing off its chromed surface. (Beta Males, who inherently feel they are always at a competitive disadvantage, are suckers for showy equalizers.) â€Å"You have a lot going on under the surface, Mr. Fresh. You are not just the run-of-the-mill seven-foot-tall Death Merchant in a pastel-green suit.† â€Å"Thank you, Mr. Asher. Very kind of you to say.† â€Å"My pleasure.† Charlie's cell phone rang and he flipped it open. Rivera said, â€Å"Asher, where the hell are you? I've been circling the Mission and there's nothing here but a lot of black feathers flying in the air.† â€Å"Yeah, it's okay. I'm okay, Inspector. I found Minty Fresh, the guy who owns the music store. I'm in the car with him.† â€Å"So you're safe?† â€Å"Relatively.† â€Å"Good. Lay low and I'll call you, okay? I want to talk to your friend tomorrow.† â€Å"You got it, Inspector. Thanks for coming to help.† â€Å"Careful, Asher.† â€Å"Gotcha. I'm laying low. Bye.† Charlie snapped the phone shut and turned to Minty Fresh. â€Å"You ready?† â€Å"Absolutely,† said the fresh one. The street was deserted when they pulled up in front of the Three Jewels Buddhist Center. â€Å"I'll go around to the back,† Minty said. Well, cars suck, I can tell you that,† said Babd, trying to keep herself together as the Morrigan limped back to the great ship. â€Å"Five thousand years, horses are fine, all of a sudden we have to have paved streets and cars. I don't see the attraction.† â€Å"I'm not even sure that we need to rise and let Darkness rule,† said Nemain. â€Å"Apparently darkness isn't qualified yet. Speaking as an agent of Darkness, I think it needs more time.† She had been crushed into a half-woman, half-raven form and was shedding feathers as they limped through the pipe. â€Å"It's like that New Meat has someone watching over him,† said Macha. â€Å"Next time Orcus can deal with him.† â€Å"Yeah, let's get Orcus to go after him,† Babd said. â€Å"See what he thinks of cars.†

Marriage vs. Living Together

According to the statistics, the number of cohabitating couples in our country firmly increases: in 1960 there were only 439,000 of unmarried cohabitants, and in 2000 this number came to 4,736,000 people. Currently, 60-75% of first marriages and 80-85% of re-marriages take place after some period of living together (School Health and Safety). This work is an attempt to examine and discuss the differences between marriage and cohabitation as two most popular forms of interpersonal relationship in our modern society. The first difference is formal procedures and requirements to enter or stop one or another type of relationship. There are no official requirements for people, who want to start or stop living together. However, entering a marriage requires such formalities (depending on the state laws) as a waiting period, medical tests, minimal ages, an official ceremony, receiving marriage certificate, etc. The same can be said about ending a marriage, which has to be formalized with a long and exhausting procedure of legal divorce. Another legal difference is connected with property relations between people who are officially married or just live together. A married couple is supposed to possess their property together and apply legal methods to divide their property in case of a separation. Since cohabitation is not a legal union, there are no legally prescribed procedures for dividing the property between cohabiting partners in case of a breakup. Finally, there’s a difference in legal responsibilities and obligations of those married or cohabiting couples who have children. The offspring born to a married couple become official children of the husband and wife. In such case both parents are obliged to support their children financially till the children reach some certain age. However, in the case of cohabitation the male partner has neither legal rights for parenting nor a legal obligation to support the offspring. There is another group of differences, which is connected with social consequences of marriage and cohabitation. Empirical researches show that cohabiting partners have higher tendency to separate (Ward). Also, married people usually have better opportunities for professional development. But, certainly, a key difference is the absence of commitments in cohabiting relationship, which often brings to various negative outcomes. Some differences are reflecting economic sides of the issue. Specialists found out that married couples usually have better financial situation (Ward). On the other hand, male partners in cohabiting relationships are less stimulated to find some sources of extra income, to earn more money and to make savings or investments. Correspondently, children of unmarried couples are usually supported with poorer financial resources. Finally, there are a number of differences connected with health effects and psychological conditions of married and cohabiting couples. Specialists report that married people express more satisfaction with their relationship and have lower tendency to feel disappointed, depressed, angry, suicidal, etc. At the same time, cohabiting partners are reported to be under much higher risks of alcohol and drug abuse, as well as other mental or emotional abuse (Ward). Undoubtedly, by some reasons marriage may not be a preferable decision for a contemporary couple, and, therefore, the two people can rather opt to live together and give up all the benefits of legal marriage. Nevertheless, when making a choice between marriage and cohabitation it is crucial to consider all important advantages and disadvantages of both types of union, as well as to find out what human values are involved in the relationship between two individuals. Bibliography: â€Å"Cohabitation vs. Marriage.† Georgia State University. School Health and Safety. Ed. Sandra Owen. 30 May 2007 . â€Å"Marriage vs. Cohabitation.† Find Law for the Public. Thomson FindLaw Internet Resource. 30 May 2007 . Ward, Nathaniel. â€Å"Marriage vs. Cohabitation.† My Heritage. Heritage Foundation. 13 Feb. 2007. 30 May 2007 .

Application of Organisational Behaviour in Management

Application of Organisational Behaviour in Management In this paper I am going to describe the theme about organisational behaviour and to analyze and explore the aspects of organisational behaviour theory and its application in practice. The background of organisational behaviour The term originated in the early of 60’s (20th century), when several lines of scientific disciplines involved in explaining the processes that occur in the organisation, between organisations, as well as between the external and internal environment combined into a single entity. In spite of the increasing theorisation of organisational behaviour, it is actively used in practice. Businessmen mocked the concepts such as a group work or enrichment work for decades, as long as the consultants began to sell these ideas under the guise of a new tendency called â€Å"compressed production.† In the beginning they mocked â€Å"discussion of organisational culture†, but accepted these theories when consultants began to submit them under the label â€Å"organisational advantage, organisational skills.† Sometimes, the practitioners faced to different problems and became â€Å"the gullible victims† of the organisational fashion, the same ideas and researches. For example, the enthusiasm for â€Å"organisational excellence† mostly meant that people had never tried to assimilate and apply the standard concepts of organisational behaviour, which were known by at least thirty years before. Organisational behaviour is a systematic and scientific analysis of individuals, groups and organisations in order to understand, predict and improve the individual performance and functioning of the organisation (i.e., based on personality). Organisational behaviour is a study of people and groups in the organisation. This is an academic discipline, which helps managers to make effective decisions when working with people in a complex dynamic environment. It combines concepts and theories related to individuals, groups, org anisations in general. In accordance with the latter definition I can distinguish three levels of behaviour problems: Personal Group and Organisational Richard Pettinger proves the fact that organisational behaviour is concerned with: â€Å"the purposes for which organisations are created; the behaviour of individuals, and an understanding of the pressures and influences that cause them to act and react in particular ways; the qualities that individuals bring to particular situations; the creation of groups, collections of people brought together for given purposes; the background and context within which activities take place; relationships and interactions with the wider environment with other organisations and groups; the management and ordering of the whole and its parts into productive and effective work relationships.† (Pettinger (2000) page 4). Organisational behaviour is a systematic study and practical application of knowledge about how people (individuals an d groups) interact within the organisation. According to Simms, Price & Ervin the main purposes of organisational theorists are â€Å"to revitalize organisational theory and develop a better conceptualisation of organisational life.† (Simms, Price and Ervin (1994) page 121). Jablin and Putnam admit that â€Å"an organisational theorist should carefully consider levels assumptions being made in theory, and is concerned to help managers and administrators.† (Jablin and Putnam (2000) page 146). The main approaches to the study of organisational behaviour There are two basic approaches: Trial and error method, based on the accumulation of life experiences to find effective behaviours. Using special techniques and methods of related disciplines. This approach involves the mastery of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It is important for a manager to combine both approaches. There are the following techniques in the study of organisational behaviour: surveys, including interviews, questionnaires, testing. Collection and analysis of information (based on the study of documents). Observation and experiment.

Blog post for Public Relation Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Blog post for Public Relation - Research Paper Example rs are rarely looking for that complex and detailed analysis of a product that would leave them in a position to develop the same product on their own. Contrary, they are interested in simply knowing how the product will suit their needs, and better even, how the product will meet their needs better than all the similar or substitute products on the market (The Richest, 2012). Therefore, it is through seeding the internet with great content, not in form of a narrative that will help to keep the customer engaged with the article or digital post, but rather through ensuring that any content developed in respect to a brand or promotion of a commercial entity tells the customers exactly what they want to know about it; how it suits their interests better than the rest (Morgan, 2014). This being the basic step, if an individual or business manages to establish internet content that will tell the customer exactly what they seek to know when they get online to seek for a commodity, the other steps involving optimizing and releasing such news will be easy to go by, since the fundamental need of the customers, which is that knowledge of the existence of a product that suits their interests better, will have been met. According to Carrie Morgan, â€Å"the Internet is a digital haystack; your brand is the needle† (Morgan, 2014). In this respect, it is the business of the brand owner to dig into the haystack, get hold of the needle, and place it on the top layer of the haystack, so that it would be easier for the interested parties to find it easily. Through applying this analogy, the only way through which a brand can thrive in the market full of competing products that are seeking to fulfill the same need, is through developing a great promotional message that will stand out amongst the rest (The Richest, 2012). For example, let us pose for a moment to look at the success of the giant search engine globally, Google, which is an internet-based firm that came along in the

Reflection summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Reflection summary - Essay Example The war against Spain in 1898 started to help the Cuban people gain their independence from the Spanish. It was a war that started with the pretense to help the Cubans but later turned into an opportunity to annex more territories. The Cubans started their liberation struggle in 1895 when they waged a rebellion against their masters. The media played a crucial role in reporting all events prompting the American government to join in the war in 1898. The U.S. Navy blocking of the Spanish fleet in Santiago Harbor signaled the beginning of the war. With troops numbering over 17,000, Spain was quickly defeated. Spain was forced to relinquish other colonies such as the Philippines, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. The impact of the war was that the US was now seen as a significant imperial power in the world. The US would then annex other areas in the Pacific mainly the Philippines, Samoa, Hawaii, Guam and Wake Islands. The war led to the US acquiring new territories especially the Philippines, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. The chapter talks about the growth of American imperialism and how it created more rivalries with other countries mainly from East

Civil liberties Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Civil liberties - Essay Example Classification of certain things for the safety of the whole society is important and the Patriot Act maintains this classification. Warrants and wire traps should be classified when a terrorist is under question and our rights to know about the surroundings are limited in these situations. However the classification and limited rights should only apply to a person who is known to be linked to terrorist acts. The authorities should make sure that a person is dealing with terrorism before he is taken into consideration for limited rights. In my view our rights should be limited and we should not know about any of the movements done by the government agencies. These acts of limitations would help the government agencies to exploit the terrorists and eliminate terrorism from the grass root level. In conclusion it can be said that our right to know has become very limited in the world today because of the increasing terrorism all over the world.

Scenario Neighbourhood Dispute Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Scenario Neighbourhood Dispute - Essay Example In addition, anything and everything should be considered as evidence. Whether this evidence is physical or testimonial, it must be preserved, noted, and brought to the attention of the investigators. The only evidence collected at this point of the investigation is eyewitness accounts or spontaneous statements of a suspect at the scene. After the scene is secured, immediate and appropriate notification must be made to the investigators. If a murder case ends in failure or an officer is embarrassed in court, the primary reason may very well be an inadequate examination of the homicide scene or a failure to implement good basic crime scene procedures as availed. More so the fate of the people being affected can be saved as earliest as possible and when police responds effectively, further damages are eliminated. This is a Domestic violence since it incurs a dispute in family possibly between a husband and wife. Domestic violence is a pattern of assaultive and coercive behaviors, including physical, sexual and psychological attacks that adults or adolescents use against their intimate partners. However, current guidelines and policies involve; Training for all security personnel on domestic violence and workplace violence, notifying the security department of any patient or employee who is a victim, notifying staff when security officers witness threats or abusive behavior toward patients and Coordinating with local law enforcement. The police are expected to make sure that the scene is under supervision by availing no crossing tags to enables people around be aware of the seriousness the events is to be considered. The police needs to raise an alert that anyone who tries to interfere with evidence will be prosecuted and reined in court for such offence. Event 3: The police officer speaks to the complainant who explains to them that

Hang on for a smooth flight; Paragliding in the UK, an Organisational Essay

Hang on for a smooth flight; Paragliding in the UK, an Organisational and Consumer perspective - Essay Example ccomplish the following: (1) to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current Hang gliding and Paragliding Industry in the United Kingdom of Great Britain; (2) to investigate key components in APCO’s marketing strategy which led to their perceived dominance in the market and; (3) to examine consumer’s perception and satisfaction with the current market situation. To achieve these objectives, the researcher would conduct a survey to fifty (50) respondents, 25 are new trainees and 25 are paragliding instructors. These respondents also went through a series of semi-structured interviews to clarify their answers in the survey. The results of this study proves that there is indeed an increase in the number of people who are into adventure sports such as paragliding despite the risks that come with these sports. It is because of this that they give so much importance to the reputation and marketing strategies of certain manufacturers so as to ensure their safety as they engage in sports which are accompanies by high risks. In the United Kingdom of Great Britain, the sport of Paragliding is gaining tremendous popularity as an essential part of both the aviation and adventure tourism industries. Without a doubt, it has significantly contributed to the rise of the aviation industry as one of the most important industries in the United Kingdom, generating about 10.2 billion pounds sterling, thus amounting to 1.4% of the Gross Domestic Product of the Country. At the same time, the aviation industry has opened a lot of job opportunities for the citizens of the UK. In fact, it has already been reported to have been directly employed by this particular industry. As one of the perceived substantial industries in the country, it has helped in supporting the vision of their government for a high-productivity economy (OEF, 1999). Without a doubt, the economic growth of the UK owes a lot to aviation. Firstly because it is a part of their transport infrastructure to which

GDP of the United States Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

GDP of the United States - Assignment Example The United States economy, with regard to recent trends, therefore, should be going forward and getting better. However, the United States is trying to recover due to the fact that the trend is not going as expected, and the question of why America down remains to be answered (Cobb, 1995) is. As regards to above trends in the current account as a percent of united states GDP, of 1980-2010, it is clear that the GDP rates keep fluctuating as it did in past recessions in the United States. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the real gross GDP recorded an annual increase rate of 1.8 percent in the third quarter of 2011 (News Release, 2011). This trend of increase from the second to the third quarter has been a notable release by the Bureau of economic analysis. The second quarter of the year 2011 saw the real GDP increase by 1.3 percent. The gross domestic product refers to the output of goods and services that labor and property located in the United States produce (News Release, 2011). In the United States, the gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate is an essential component of the economy. For this case, the future of the economic activity is predicted by the yield curve slope and the spread between the interest terms (News Release, 2011). This is because the shifts of the slope are key determinants and indicators of high and low GDP growth. In determining GDP, there are three different approaches, which must carry out similar results. Therefore, the â€Å"total value of production†, the â€Å"total value of income† and the total value of expenditure should reflect equilibrium or simply be equal (News Release, 2011). The first method involves deriving a residual value and is referred to as the production approach (Krugman, 2001). Production approach involves taking an estimate of each industry’s gross output from other industries, and this is used to derive each industry’s residual value.

Morgan State University professor convicted of fraud scheme Essay

Morgan State University professor convicted of fraud scheme - Essay Example In 2011, the prosecution alleges that the professor cunningly falsified documents in a desperate attempt to hide the fraud he had committed. In addition to the fraud, Jha also obtained funds from students through false utterances. He misinformed them that part of the Department of Defense grants was to be handed back to him. He received a total of $36000, which he later deposited into his personal bank account. Although there is overwhelming evidence against Jha, he has pleaded not guilty. His sentencing has been scheduled for July. The Manoj Kumar Jha’s case is not the first fraud case at Morgan State University. Robert Lee Terrell, an employee of the University, is alleged to have stolen $66,000 in state funds. He is waiting to be arraigned in court later this month. Morgan State University issued a statement about the Jha’s case. It announced it had done everything within its power to aid cooperation with the federal investigation. Furthermore, it announced that its mechanism of identifying potential fraud had been upgraded, and this new system will quickly arrest any potential fraud before it

The American Dream Essay Example for Free

The American Dream Essay Everyone has there own dream. Many just see it as just being happy. To others it may be becoming rich and having the perfect family. In life many people wonder how far would you go for you would go to obtain the american dream. How far would you go? The American Dream to me is having equal opportunity, to live without any worries, and doing the things in life that you love the most. Most would do all they can in power to make sure they come close to the American Dream. According to John Fitzgerald Kennedy â€Å" All of us do not have equal talents . But all of us should have an equal opportunity to develop our talents. † Kennedy was basically saying that we might not all have been create equally with the same gifts and talents. Are all of us created equally? Lots of the time we don’t treat each other as if we are all equal. Americans put each other in ranks call social classes. If we had a life without social classes everyone would be the same thing. No one would have to worry about having more power over one another. In the Declaration it quotes â€Å" All mean are created equal† (Jefferson 98) That means that every person is entitled to do anything that the most wealthy man does. For an example a restaurant can’t refuse to serve someone just because of their religion. In America the Declaration makes us equal. No one can take away your rights. We create each others equality. In the text â€Å"I Will Fight No More Forever† the native americans were driven out of their own land. ( Chief Joseph 455) There was no equality present. The Natives tried to fight for their rights to stay but they didn’t stand a chance. The American dream is having equal rights, and feeling as if you are wanted or equal. Everyone wants to be excepted by people and to be treated right. To feel as if you are a equal , what would you do? Many immigrants live in the US looking for equal opportunity. They are happier here because had more opportunity. There are many people who came from different countries to the United States and became very successful . Just like Justin Bieber, a Canadian , he became one of the most famous pop singers in the US. But some people aren’t really here legally . Is it alright to live in the US illegally with good intentions? How far would you go? Would you marry a legal person to get your green card? Would you have a baby just so you can stay in the country? I do think it is okay to break the law if it is absolutely necessary. It does say in the constitution that every person in the US are made equal. So everyone are equal legal or not. The American Dream is feeling as if you are equal , and the US makes everyone here feel that way. Every human deserves equal opportunity. Have you ever thought about life without worries? Just think about , no stress, no coercion. The most successful people live life without worry. Take Wiz Khalifa as an example. A rapper that sends out a message to relax , and let things flow. He never really worried about his career. By living in a nonchalant manner Wiz became one of the top rappers in the US. In many of his interviews he made it clear that what ever happens in life just happens; whether it’s good or bad. If it’s bad you just let it be, just know it could always be worse. As he quoted â€Å" Good things come in good time†. When he says that he’s saying that just be patient. Don’t get upset and worked up. Everyone has their time to shine. A life without worries or the American Dream, can be reached in many way. But how far would you go to have a stress free life. In the Incidents in the Life Slave Girl , the main character Linda runs away in hope that one day her and her children would live a life without strive. Her grandmother patiently waited; she saved up money for each child to buy them. They wanted to be free , so they could live without worrying about being beaten, sold to someone else, or having their family be split up. The American Dream would be secure when Linda and her family are out of slavery. (Jacobs 406) When people picture themselves experiencing The American Dream, they picture themselves doing something they love. As you go through life teachers, parents, and friends install the idea that, when you grow up you should get a job that you love and that your happy doing. According to Militants are living the American Dream. They are getting paid to do jobs that they love and are gifted at. Nurses in particular. They love helping people. They took advantage of the free chance to get paid and work for the country. They also get plenty of benefits. Thats the best part about it. Waking up every morning knowing that your about to being a day that only good can come out of. According to Al Lopez â€Å"Do what you love to do and give your very best. Whether it’s business or baseball, or theater, or any field. If you don’t love what you’re doing and you can’t give it your best,get out of it. Life is too short. You’ll be an old man before you know it†. If you wake up one day wanting to start a job that would make you happy, how far would you go to try and obtain that profession. Would you lie about being certified or having a certain degree? Many systems in the US don’t do background checks on their employees. They just automatically trust and believe that all the information that has been summited is verifiable. People lie everyday to get a job that they know they would be happy in but aren’t willing to put in the work to go to school and get the proper transactions made. Does it matter if your lying on your resumes when your applying for a low ranked job? If your dream job is just working at a window for McDonalds , and you say that you have work experience elsewhere when you really don’t ; is that alright? Celebrity Robert Irvine who is a famous chef lied about designing Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s wedding cake. He was fired from his own show when it was uncovered. Is it worth going that far and risking everything. People would go to far measures to do the things that make them happy in life. Just like in Mark Twains â€Å" The Lowest Animal† it says that they would do whatever they have to do to insure their own happiness. ( Twain 468) When you have come to the climax in our life where you know you love what you are doing and your happy, most people would do whatever it takes to excel in that category. In conclusion The American Dream is living life without worries, having equal opportunity, and doing the things in life that make you happy. It doesn’t matter if you want a equal chance in society , be able to provide for your family, or have a job in a career that you love and can excel in at a blistering rate. The American Dream is obtainable for everyone; it just didn’t happen to Justin Bieber or Wiz Khalifa. The worked for what they got. Like Wiz said everyone has their chance to shine. Sometimes you might have to just sit and wait, in other cases you have to put all you’ve got into being successful. People in America today are relentless . They would do whatever they have to do to be noticed. They lie on resumes to get certain perks. It might not be as serious as lying about designing a wedding cake, but they would go to the ends of the world to make themselves happy. The American Dream is riveting, exciting , and intriguing.

Rational Choice Theory Analytical Framework

Rational Choice Theory Analytical Framework Before I begin on my analytical review of the selected article, I firstly, feel that it is crucial to outline and define what an analytical framework is and what it consists of. Due to the nature of the subject we are assessing, that being social science, it is clear that researchers have to contend with many different variables from different theoretical standpoints to the vast differing ideological paradigms of this subject. If a study does not possess a proposed analytical framework within its main body of writing, it will often be criticised for being overly descriptive and lacking a precise investigation, thus meaning the academic work will lack clear focus and suffer from being vague. Secondly, analytical frameworks are many and varied, some utilise observable reality within society from institutions such as family, education and the state. These are ideal if the researcher intends on gathering evidence from that particular institution, allowing the researcher test their hypothesis of Y affects X etc. However many analytical frameworks within the social sciences are usually intertwined to key intellectual theories; these include areas such as Marxism, Rational choice and Network theory. Researchers using these types of framework allow for a focused document, which adopts a particular intellectual theory and systematically evaluates it to the chosen topic area from that standpoint. All analytical frameworks do share one particular trend whether it is assessing ideologies or the various institutions, their first initial task is to mobilise the intellectual approach through the body of literature. Furthermore this analytical framework must be chosen with careful consideration by academics, as within their chosen framework there will consist of theorists who share similar views on that particular issue. E.g. Rational choice theorists believe that we make choices based upon our personal preference, having theorists support your argument increases validity and strengthens structure of your argument, thus allowing you to raise particular questions such as is there rationality of radical Islam? In short these frameworks consist of a set of intellectual tools that guide the researcher through his/her research for example, how to collect, sort, and interpret the results found, obviously guiding is not the only application within the theoretical framework but it also has close links with the particular sub-questions asked within that theory. Firstly, an important detail to reference about the particular article, is the title of the article itself The Rationality of Radical Islam this shows a clear indication of the authors analytical standpoint The use of Rationality within the title suggests that Wiktoro Kaltenhaler are taking a Rational Choice perspective approach within the article. Before I begin on exploring how Wiktoros has employed this rational choice theory to terrorism, it is important to address what rational choice theory really is and its assumptions. Throughout much of the western hemisphere in the early part of the 21st century, we have witnessed a shift in the way we analyse human behaviour. This shift was at large partly due to the emergence of RCT which has been dominant within economics but has spread to other disciplines. This Rational choice theory consists of three independent theories at its core including social choice theory, game theory and economics. Essentially RCT is actually three things at the same time, because not only does it possess a logical structure to which many use it as a fundamental ideology to theorising. But it is both a normative empirical method of investigation into the actions and behaviours of the individual. RCTs primary underlying focus begins with the clear acknowledgment of the individual, not the interaction between several individuals. RCT would therefore advocate a minimalist state which is only used for preserving individual liberties and non invasive on the individual. Furthermore RCT is also concerned with the explanation of all social phenomenons within society whether it be conforming, or deviant acts, it views humans as rational creatures meaning there are calculated mental process that exist within our choices. Because rational choice is derived from economics it acknowledges all social exchanges are like that of economic exchanges to which an actor will choose an action rationally, based on a hierarchy of preferences, that promises to maximize benefits and minimize costs (Zey 1998 p.2) these basic premises of humans, portray that our decisions are reared towards the sole aim of profit or pleasure. This article explores the The Rationality of Radical Islam it specifically asks the question Why do Islamist radicals engage in high-cost/risk activism (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.296) and the incentives behind it. This particular analytical framework is perfect to use as, terrorism throughout the general population is widely considered highly irrational, especially in the case of Jihadist terrorism, as how can you sacrifice yourself and others for a greater good? The reasons many see terrorists and their sympathizers as irrational is due to that their beliefs are so improbable and dogmatic, (Wiktorowicz, cited 2004 in Caplan, 2006 p.97) and what factual evidence do Jihadist terrorists have for gaining a place straight into paradise where they can enjoy the company of 72 virgins? We foresee this certain approach as being nothing more than plain foolish, due to the dependency on belief. However Wiktrorowicz believes that we cannot judge an action such as this, as irrational simply because we dont agree with it, and if the individual is optimizing their top preference then they are acting rationally (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.300). The second major point tackled by these two authors, is the assessment on the various incentives terrorist organisations offer, as all groups proffers its ideology as an efficient path to salvation, which serves as a heuristic device for in-doctrinal actors to weigh the costs benefits of certain behaviour (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.301). In other words most organisations dont offer material or worldly goods which by western culture does not reflect economic or personal benefit for the individual, but it shows that spiritual good are more important to some. But there is evidence that those who joined Algerias armed Islamic groups chose to do so to benefit economically from insurgency, such as smuggling (wiktorowicz 2006 p.302). Referring back to the previous point, a case study brought up in the article was on the Al-Muhajiroun which proved to be a popular group throughout the UK, but after the attacks on 9/11 the British state condemned the group for expressing radical views. However during its time this case study provides a perfect example of payoffs, as the Al-Muhajiron only offered spiritual payoffs for such a high risk activity, many in this group viewed activism and even risk itself as means to achieve salvation and entrance to paradise (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.302). These points articulate that RCT doesnt provide an explanation of preference formation, but explains a strategy of choices under a set of ordered preferences (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.302) so RCT is not concerned with why individuals prioritise terrorism to the top of the list but it just wants to understand why we rationally choose to do something highly illegal and dangerous. Lastly Bruce Hoffman in regards to rationality of terrorism defines terrorism as the deliberate creation and exploitation of fear through violence or the threat of violence in the pursuit of political change. All terrorist acts involve violence or the threat of violence. (Hoffman 1998) his use of literature such as deliberate creation backs up the arguments of Wiktorowicz that terrorists pre-plan and prepare every step of terrorism, this could be in terms of signing up for Jihadist attacks or the preparation of bombs, the terrorists know what they are doing and gladly do it pursuing their own self interest at any cost. Delving into the theoretical underpinnings of the article, I firstly, came across within the literature a reference to Mother Teresa in which she advocated that religion was self-sacrificial and wasnt motivated by external rewards (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.302). This has one of two benefits; one the use of a similar theorist strengthens Wiktorowiczs argument, as the author is acknowledging a rationale in the idea that material goods are not the only driving force of an individual. And secondly, within this article by Kwilecki Wilson we can see a clear running theme for RCT as in the opening abstract they state that this paper applies rational choice to the religion of Mother Teresa (Kwilecki 2000 p.205). Lastly, upon viewing Wiktorowiczs endnote system, we can see the material they used to reference and guide their analysis is heavily interlinked to the analytical framework of RCT, such as the economic approach to human behaviour an introduction to rational choice by Jon Estler clearly shows that the theoretical underpinnings all point to a RCT perspective approach and has been applied to the topic of terrorism. With RCT being a major ideological contender within the social science world over the past six decades, there is now a huge library of literature attacking and defending RCT and is currently still growing. To begin I want to discuss the advantages of this particular approach in general. Firstly, RCT has survived this long due to its genuine fundamental strengths e.g. rationality accords with common sense in certain simple settings. For example, consider a choice between $5 and $10, no strings attached. (Herrnstein 1990 p.357) On this basis of behaviour, we would always choose the larger sum of money no matter what, so in a sense arguing against RCT is like arguing against the principal of indisputable truth and against common sense in general. Second, the sheer power of this theory is an undisputable strength of its own, as it has manifested itself into all disciplines that examine behaviour from political philosophy to the behaviourism in psychology; it is hard to critique such a coherent framework. So its generality in other words allows assumptions to be placed into a wide variety of topic areas, without them being splintered into a mix of complicated sub-theories. This common deductive base detaches them from other main theories as by reducing the area of disagreement it can work much more efficiently. Before 9/11 investigations into terrorist cells were minimal, so too were activities regarding anti-terrorism. However after the attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York, we witnessed a major influx with both participants in high risk activities as well as counter terrorism agencies investigating these radical motives. One thing is clear in terms of terrorism is the fact that RCT has opened up radical movements who were previously described as unflappable, ideological zealots trapped by rigid adherence to dogma, are now regarded as strategic thinkers.'(Wiktorowicz 2005 p.13) This approach breathes life into the study of terrorists actions and how to counteract such activities e.g. Deterrence, there is little doubt that old-fashioned deterrence reduces the amount of terrorism, and in theory increasing the risk and severity of being caught should also continue to drop the amount of people who adopt radical beliefs. Secondly moving on to the general criticisms of this theory, which has seen a wide range of claims made against it, for instance RCT cannot explain the existence of various social phenomenons such as trust, reciprocity and especially charity, as in such organisations the masses are the ones benefitting from the individuals actions, and the individual isnt rationally choosing to maximise their personal benefits. Furthermore in terms of the individuals choices, it is safe to say that individuals do not possess all knowledge and information on everything anything, so essentially humans rely on heuristics to guide our thought processes which essentially intelligent guesswork. This limitation can also go further into the fact that in society today and even in the past, peoples choices are constrained by the many social institutions of society the modal individual will find his or her actions checked from birth to death by familial and school rules; laws and ordinances'(Freidman 1991 p.208) . Continuing on from the last point its seems clear that its not just institutions structures holding individuals back, but the pressures of so called acceptable behaviour as these social norms are essentially a barrier to the pursuit of self-interest. Lastly on the general criticisms towards RCT Id like to discuss a point raised in the book by Paul Anard who wrote if rationality is about consistency, including logical consistency, then human agents cannot be considered rational in a full sense. (Anard 2002 p.22) This quote articulates a very interesting standpoint against the fundamental underpinnings of this theory as if RCT states we are so rational in mind body the n why do we have inconsistencies of thoughts, and why are these behaviours such a common occurrence within our society. A weakness RCT has in relation to terrorism is that RCT generally operates in a post-hoc manner where researchers usually examine past precedents to rationalise and predict similar event of the future, (Lindauer 2012 p.8) but in the area of terrorism this is not a good idea, as one terrorism is irrational that mathematically people cannot always predict events and secondly, if a mistake was to be made the consequences could be devastating and traumatic as peoples lives are at risk. As discussed previously within this essay, RCT has a high number of loyal followers and a wide literature on all subjects, so as RCT is focused upon behaviour, it has made important inroads to other topic areas not just the study of terrorism. One key area RCT is dominant in, is the low turnout rate within elections. RCT states that turnout is, for many people most of the time, a low-cost, low-benefit action. (Aldrich 1993 p.261) so will always suffer. This theory has been the backbone of reform and incentives to revert voter apathy and re-engage people back into politics. For example it is important for a political campaign to outline what benefits it will have on the individual causing it to be a high benefit action. Secondly RCT is prominent within criminology and the rationality of criminals, this topic is similar to terrorism in respect that, RCT argues the decision to commit an offense is negatively related to the perceived costs of crime and positively related to the perceived rewards of crime (Nagin 1993 p.479) thus meaning there is a rational mental process taking place within the individual before a crime is committed. Like petty crime is often committed at night or during quiet hours as criminals mentally calculate the benefits, such as they will be less likely to be disturbed or be seen committing a crime. RCT creates a wonderful overview to the behaviours of crime and the individuals within it. In conclusion the analytical framework utilised within the article of terrorism allows for a detailed and unique perspective on why individuals choose to commit terrorist actions. The authors use of case studies back up the RCT theory, adding not only depth but lying out clear empirical evidence of Rational choice for the reader to ponder. Because RCT is a more coherent group defined by a very clear methodology (Burnham 2008 p.26) allows the theory to be implemented into other areas. To give an example, the rationality within committing crime can be directly compared and contrasted towards terrorism interlinking the mental process that go with it, thus in turn creating a powerful theory of analysis which has much literature and backing. Lastly, concluding with my thoughts on using an analytical framework within academic research. I feel using a framework is crucial in order obtain an essay that consists of structural rigour. Studying a topic area can be a daunting task especially a v ery broad topic like many in the social sciences, but using an analytical framework can help break down the topic of your choice helping you research, gather present your findings into a coherent argument. Furthermore without a set framework the article will attempt to answer more questions than it can answer making it a weak descriptive academic piece of work.

Postpartum Depression A Concept Analysis Health And Social Care Essay

Postpartum Depression A Concept Analysis Health And Social Care Essay Postpartum Depression is generally defined in the following context: Specifier of nonpsychotic major depression that has its onset within 4 weeks after delivery (Mehta and Sheth, 2006). In addition, the illness is often classified into the following categories: Baby blues, nonpsychotic depression, and puerperal psychosis (Mehta and Sheth, 2006). Therefore, the illness is complex in nature and is attributed to the emotions that are experienced after giving birth (Mehta and Sheth, 2006). It appears that there are no clear distinctions between first-time and experienced mothers facing postpartum depression, and that the state is potentially dependent upon hormonal imbalances (Mehta and Sheth, 2006). The state of postpartum depression is particularly difficult for its sufferers, as they are often unable to care for their newborn babies in the way that they desire, and this places a particularly difficult strain upon the family in these cases. The defining attributes of the illness are em otional in nature, and require further evaluation in order to establish a successful diagnosis and treatment strategy. For women facing the risk of postpartum depression, there are a number of common concerns that are well-defined and researched, including but not limited to stress, hormone imbalance, and alternative methods of conception. Therefore, those women facing postpartum depression often possess a number of risk factors that may be individual or combined. As a result, a diagnosis of this condition is often based upon several factors. However, these factors may also be attributed to other conditions and circumstances, so how they are identified and managed is of critical importance in addressing the condition directly. In general, A meta-analysis of numerous studies found the average prevalence rate of postpartum depression to be 13 %there is a three-fold increase in the risk of depression during the first months after delivery (Joesfsson, 2003, p. 14). Therefore, it is important to note that postpartum depression is a common condition that requires further evaluation and treatment. A case study is perhaps the most feasible opportunity to explore the variables involved in postpartum depression, as this will enable the evaluator to determine the extent to which the illness is based upon various factors, how it was derived, and how to best treat the condition effectively. Typically, a scale known as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is widely used to identify the severity of postpartum depression episodes, as is useful in determining the course of treatment that will treat the condition without delay (Chokka, 2002). One case to consider is that of using the EPDS to screen patients for postpartum depression, and if the condition is identified, to determine its severity (Joesfsson, 2003). This scale is used to convey a greater understanding of the epidemiology of the illness, and its contributing factors in those that suffer its symptoms (Joesfsson, 2003). The case study under consideration examines women facing postpartum symptoms of depression at several intervals, and explores a number of variables that are relevant in describing the condition and its potential outcomes for female patients (Joesfsson, 2003). There were a number of statistical requirements under consideration, as well as an opportunity to explore the ethical nature of the study and how it might impact postpartum women in a personal manner: We questioned ourselves whether it would create increased anxiety to ask the eligible women personal questions about mental and physical health and later on about their childrens behavior. How ever, we concluded that the positive effects would outweigh the negative effects and that the attendance rate would reflect the womens opinions in this matter. Verbal and written information was given to all participants and it was made clear that participation was voluntary (Joesfsson, 2003, p. 33). From this perspective, it should be noted that the postpartum depression study served as a means of influencing the identification of risk factors, as well as the epidemiology behind such factors and subsequent treatment alternatives that would be useful in supporting patients of this nature (Joesfsson, 2003). In this manner, it was determined that the study was a safe and effective means of identifying various risk factors associated with postpartum depression. The study results indicate that the EPDS is a highly useful tool in order to support the findings associated with postpartum depression (Joesffson, 2003). One of the key factors in this study that is not found in many other studies is as follows: An advantage of this study is that all data were extracted from standardized medical records in which data were collected prior to knowledge of postpartum mood. This made it possible to minimize maternal recall bias. To our knowledge this is the only study that includes earlier medical, gynecologic and obstetric history (Joesffson, 2003, p. 37). Therefore, the study indicates that there are significant opportunities to explore postpartum depression by using the EPDS scale, and that the results from this scale will continue to provide clinicians with the tools that are necessary to improve diagnosis and treatment methods for postpartum depression and its many complexities (Joesffson, 2003). EPDS is also evaluated in a borderline case involving postpartum women from Chile, and it was determined that the scale is very useful in other settings as a screening and diagnostic tool (Jadresic et.al, 1995). Another borderline case involving subjects from Iran is also useful in determining the effectiveness of the EPDS tool (Montazeri et.al, 2007). A contrary case involves the detection of false negatives in using the EPDS, which is in stark contrast to many other cases that support the widespread use of this scale to identify postpartum depression (Guedeney et.al, 2000). A case invented for the research might demonstrate that EPDS is successful in diagnosing other types of depressive disorders or episodes that extend beyond postpartum depression. Finally, an illegitimate case involves an examination of symptoms that are depicted as postpartum depression with the EPDS, but are actually not related ( Jomeen and Martin, 2008). Based upon the model case, the antecedent is the series of unusual behaviors that are generally associated with postpartum depression, such a perceived detachment from the child, as well as emotions, such as uncontrollable crying and fits of anger. As a result of these behaviors, it is generally believed that women suffering from postpartum depression face considerable emotional and psychological consequences until they are diagnosed and are treated for their condition in a successful manner. In a related case study, EDHS is utilized in conjunction with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) in an effort to identify postpartum depression in a different light. In a general context, Routine depression screening has been recommended for all adults using tools, such as the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), that have been validated in primary care practices (Yawn et.al, 2009, p. 483). From this perspective, it is known that postpartum depression is not commonly considered under this questionnaire, and requires further consideration as a potential tool for evaluation of this condition (Yawn et.al, 2009). The study considered both tools as an opportunity to identify postpartum depressive symptoms, and to also demonstrate that these studies might be useful together, while also recognizing the limitations of their use in conjunction with each other (Yawn et.al, 2009). These findings suggest that there are significant factors involved in identifying postpartum depression, par ticularly when a body of questions are asked of each study participant that might be uncomfortable to answer (Yawn et.al, 2009). Therefore, it is difficult to identify all of the possible implications of using both tools without further evaluation (Yawn et.al, 2009). Nonetheless, it is very important and relevant to consider how postpartum depression is diagnosed and treated under the most common conditions. Other studies also demonstrate that postpartum depression, when diagnosed by using the EPDS scale, is highly responsive to different forms of cognitive therapy, including individual and group counseling, amongst other methods (Moss et.al, 2009). However, studies do not go so far as to say that educational programs are a useful tool in supporting the prevention of postpartum depression, as this has yet to be identified as an effective alternative (Moss et.al, 2009). There continue to be critical factors that influence postpartum depression that have not been fully identified, and therefore, the EPDS is a very useful method of deciphering new problems and potential treatment solutions (Moss et.al, 2009). Based upon the indicators provided in the discussion and case studies thus far, there are a number of empirical referents to consider when addressing the scope of postpartum depression, and how it is dramatically influenced by various factors, including but not limited to risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. It is clear that there are a number of common risk factors associated with postpartum depression that are common in many identified cases, including but not limited to prior depressive episodes, hormone imbalances, and other related factors. These factors are typical contributors to the condition, even though their severity varies from one case to another. Nonetheless, when considering postpartum depression, these are typical concerns that must be evaluated on a consistent basis. In one context, it is observed that postpartum depression may be associated with what is known as the relinquishment of motherhood, which is reflective of different circumstances, such as giving up a baby for adoption, as well as the challenges associated with postpartum depression (La Monica). In this context, Relinquishment is usually done with a great deal of conflict, especially if done under compulsion. Consequences of relinquishment are (1) the obvious loss of a child, (2) a resulting role change; she is no longer functioning as a mother, and (3) the inevitable grief process to follow (La Monica, p. 269). From this perspective, it is clear that postpartum depression also falls into this category, and possesses empirical consequences for a mother until a diagnosis and treatment plan is satisfied. It is important for a mother facing postpartum depression to consider how this might impact her child or children, and how to best approach the situation in a delicate yet assertive man ner. However, since the judgment of the mother is often poor as a result of her condition and she may be unable to think clearly, it is necessary to consider how the condition might be identified by a clinical professional, and thus treated accordingly. It is important for family members and clinicians to be involved as early as possible, so that the symptoms do not become so severe that irreversible consequences are inevitable, as occurs in some cases. In all cases of postpartum depression, it is critical to develop an understanding of the underlying factors, causes, and diagnosis methods that are most common, so that all possible ideas are explored without severe repercussions for patients. Therefore, it is expected that in all cases of postpartum depression, establishing a diagnosis using the EPDS and/or the PHQ are of critical relevance in order to determine the most feasible course of action for the patient in question. This is a general rule that applies to almost any diagnosis, and requires ongoing consideration in order to achieve the desired level of effectiveness. It is imperative that these methods are utilized consistently from one case to the next in order to establish effective patterns for treating postpartum depression and its underlying causes. In order to identify the various principles that are associated with a diagnosis of postpartum depression, it is necessary to develop a greater understanding of various risk factors that are associated with the illness and its outcomes for new and experienced mothers. It is evident that there are a variety of concerns that are associated with postpartum depression, and that these require further consideration and evaluation. Therefore, various research studies to date indicate that there are a number of relevant tools that are often utilized in order to understand the overall concepts associated with postpartum depression, and how to best diagnose and treat this complex psychological condition with physical undertones. The most common tools used to identify the condition are the EPDS and the PHQ, which are utilized to identify severity of the condition under different circumstances. Patients suffering from this illness must be cooperative and supportive in seeking a diagnosis and tre atment, even though this is often a very difficult concept to grasp. Therefore, it is important for clinicians to be heavily involved in this process, so that patients are provided with the best possible outcomes for their condition, regardless of its severity. This will provide the greatest level of support during diagnosis and treatment to improve the condition through regular treatment and ongoing intervention as necessary.

Amazement and Wonder in Peter Weir’s Fearless :: Movie Film Essays

Amazement and Wonder in Peter Weir’s Fearless Roger Ebert writes, â€Å"Fearless is like a short story that shines a bright light, briefly, into a corner where you usually do not look. It makes you realize how routine life can become: how it is actually possible to be bored despite the fact that a universe has evolved for eons in order to provide us with the five senses by which we perceive it. If we ever really fully perceived the cosmic situation we are in, we would drop unconscious, I imagine, from shock.† What the filmmaker, Peter Wier, is attempting to make a statement about, is that we (1) cannot live our lives in boredom of life in general and its monotony because there are far to many wonderful things that go unnoticed, and (2) that we also cannot live our lives in fear of dying from flying on a plane or not engaging in a sport due to the risk of injury. Fearless accomplishes this sense of amazement and wonder in several ways, the most prominent of which are the actions of Max Klein. The earliest of examples to that end occurs when Max drives the car to see his friend in the beginning of the film. ON the way he stops out in the middle of nowhere and sits against his car on the side of the road, rubbing dirt between his fingers. This is a demonstration of Max's intrigue with something as ordinary as dirt on the side of the road, a gratitude and appreciation for the basics of what makes up all of life on earth. In addition, Max finds a new love for strawberries, partially newly discovered excitement in simplicity and partially as a test of his state of being. After all, Max is allergic to strawberries prior to the plane crash. He is also absorbed with work and caught up in the monotony of everyday life, until he experiences such a traumatic event. Max is also afraid to fly, and goes on this flight against his so called better judgment. The incident of the crash transforms Max Klein into an individual with a changed view of life. It is a realization that he, or anyone for that matter, may die at any given moment, and this realization also makes him take initiative in doing something which he always meant to do.

Alcohol and the Causes of Student Binge Drinking Essay -- Expository C

Causes of Student Binge Drinking We've all heard it before: "Too much of anything is bad for us." The amount of binge drinking occurring on American college campuses today proves that college students do not heed this warning. Binge drinking, or drinking for the purpose of getting drunk, harms both drinkers and non-drinkers alike. As today's college students come dangerously close to being swept away in the sea of papers, exams, jobs, and interviews, they use bingeing as the lifeboat that allows them to escape the stress. It allows them to forget their worries, fit in with the crowd, and live on the edge in a fast-paced world that normally does not leave time for such activities. Teetering on the brink of adulthood, yet still trapped in childhood makes drinking decisions difficult for many college students. A desire to get away from our usual lives because of societal regulations and conformity, psychological and emotional problems, and the stress of everyday life causes college binge drinking. The need to conform to societal norms set by peers leads to college binge drinking. Over the years, drinking has become a popular pastime for college students. A study conducted by Dr. Katherine C. Lyall of the University of Wisconsin defined binge drinking as "five or more drinks in a row one or more times during a two week period for men, and four or more drinks in a row one or more times during the same period for women." Lyall's study, in which 145 colleges from 40 states participated, found that 84% of all students drank during the school year. It also found that 44% of all students were binge drinkers, and 19% binged three or more times within a two week period (Lyall). Students feel the need to drink in order to fit in wit... ... well as those surrounding him or her. Societal norms, psychological and emotional problems, and stress all contribute to binge drinking. These factors should not be excuses, however. Today's college students are capable of finding a legal and safe lifeboat that keeps them from being sucked under the waves of daunting college pressures. Works Cited Addeo, Edmond G. and Jovita Reichling. Why Our Children Drink. Englewood Cliffs: Prentice Hall, 1975. Hamilton, Cheryl. Communicating for Results. Belmont: Wadsworth Publishing Company, 1997. Lyall, Katherine C., PhD. "Binge Drinking on American College Campuses." August 1995. October 14, 1998. (available online). http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/cas/RWJ_S.htm North, Robert and Richard Orange, Jr. Teenage Drinking. New York: Collier Books, 1980. Rouse, Ewing. Drinking. Chicago: Nelson-Hall, 1978.

Ho families are changing :: essays research papers

How Families Are Changing†¦ For the Better The present structure of the average family in America is changing, mainly due to the growing number of mothers who now work outside the home. The current mark of dual-earner families stands at 64 percent, making it a solid majority today. This alteration of the â€Å"traditional† structure of the family is a catalyst for other changes that may soon occur. One of the changes that recently have been evident is the increased participation of men in the family’s raising of children. Of course, this is almost essential considering nearly two-thirds of all women now work out-side the home. Among other changes, women’s new economic gains have made marriages increasingly egalitarian. This leads both spouses to have more flexibility in choosing careers and balancing family life. Children today are increasingly being taught new values about the roles of men and women. Day care is becoming increasingly prevalent and is becoming somewhat of an extended family. Also, institutions outside the family such as the workplace and schools are creating the biggest stresses for parents. The biggest reason for all the changes at home are that women demand them, and their new economic resources carry a lot of weight in the decision. This has also led for the young men of today to increasingly accept this new domestic structure. Often, they choose wives which seem as their equals, as opposed to someone who â€Å"does not bring home the bacon.† Though, men today often feel threatened because they no longer solely own the breadwinner role. This leads to increased stress for men, who not only want to remain breadwinners, but also want to increase the time spent with their children. Yet, today’s families have come to face some big stresses dealing with institutions that have not advanced as far. Workplaces often do not offer flexible schedules to employees, while schools are still structured as if mothers still solely remained at home. Work schedules also provide a very difficult time schedule that often conflicts with domestic responsibilities. This has lead to inflexible schedules being on of the top sources of stress for parents.

An Analysis of Macbeth’s Ambition Essay

â€Å"Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good or very bad acts. All depends on the principals which direct them.† – Napoleon Bonaparte. Ambition can be defined as the desire and willingness to strive towards achievement or distinction, the motivation in one’s life, it is one of the key sources to success but ambition can blind one from determining what’s right and what’s wrong. On the contrary, driving ambition is the outright desire to achieve a certain goal, regardless of any possible consequences. When ambition goes unhindered by a sense of morality and, humanity it can be a corrupting influence destroying people and, nations. In â€Å"Macbeth† by William Shakespeare Macbeth’s ambition led to destruction of himself. Through the use of dramatic elements such imagery and characterization Shakespeare conveys an important theme about ambition in Macbeth. If a picture can tell a thousand words, than imagine the importance of an image upon a play such as Macbeth. I was thought that in any literary work it is exceedingly important that the author can effectively manipulate a reader’s feelings towards a character from the inside out. In Macbeth, that achievement is accomplished beautifully by Shakespeare. Through his practical use of imagery, Shakespeare shows us a deeper look into how ambition can destroy man when unchecked by moral values. The use of imagery is widespread throughout â€Å"Macbeth†; it is most dominant in clothing imagery, light and darkness imagery, and blood imagery. Through these images, Shakespeare shows the development of Macbeth’s ambition. Using clothing imagery, Shakespeare develops Macbeth’s ambition. This is seen, as, imagery of clothing which shows us Macbeth’s ambition and the consequences thereof. We see this ambition, through Banquo, when he says, â€Å"New honours come upon him, Like our strange garments, cleave not to their mould but with the aid of use.† ( I, iii ) what this quote is representing is that new clothes do not fit our bodies, until we are accustomed to them just like a new pair of shoes they must be broken in to comfort. Throughout the entire play, Macbeth is constantly wearing new clothes that can one can interpret as  titles, that are not rightfully his, and do not fit. Hence, his ambition. This ambition, as we see, is what leads to his demise. When Macbeth first hears the prophecy that he will be King, he does not see how it can be so, â€Å"to be king stands not within the prospect of belief† (I, iii,) However, Macbeth’s ambitious nature becomes more visible when he considers murdering King Duncan to claim the throne, â€Å"If it were done, when ’tis done, then ’twere well It were done quickly† (I, vii,). His ambition is extremely influenced by Lady Macbeth from questioning his mind hood to manipulating with his mind, she convenes him to commit this crime, and lay his claim to the throne. He is hesitant Macbeth states, â€Å"I have bought Golden opinions from all sorts of people, who would be worn now in their newest gloss, not cast aside so soon† (I, vii,). Macbeth puts two things in comparison with one another; being recently named the Thane of Cawdor to a new set of clothes. His has doubt on whether or not he is ready to be king; hence he isn’t ready for a new set of clothes that do not lawfully belong to him. He believes that the â€Å"clothes† they have should be worn for a little while longer. Lady Macbeth doesn’t necessarily support that idea convincing Macbeth otherwise, and he process carrying out the murder of King Duncan. This is the start of his ambitious nature. As Macbeth first had beliefs of not being ready to be king drastically differs when he becomes king from the Macbeth that defeated the invading armies in the beginning of the play to a tyrant drunk in power due to his ambition. This is evident when Angus says â€Å"his title hang loose about him, like a giant’s robe upon a dwarfish thief.† (V, ii,). His ambition drove him to attain new honours that do not fit him, as they belong to other people, through the use of imagery Macbeth is being pictured as a little, a deceitful and, dishonorable man, depraved and inhibited by garments. His paths of ambition that he took to become king lead him into being a vain, vicious, and pitiless man; climbing over the dead bodies of his trusted friends and kinsmen to a power he is unfit to hold and grasp With Shakespeare’s use of dark and, light imagery, we see an evolvement in Macbeth’s ambition becoming deeper and deeper. The imagery of light and darkness is associated to the conflict between good and evil, also connecting with symbolism in the play light represents good and darkness correlates with evil. The use of light and dark is seen all throughout the play; the witches, who symbolize evil as well, these three  witches are the embodiment of evil itself, they set their first meeting with Macbeth for the â€Å"set if sun† (I, i). In every scene the witches appear in there is a reality of darkness from lightning and, thunder to the natural darkness around them. In Act five scenes one, Macbeth refers to the witches as â€Å"black and midnight hags.† Banquo warns Macbeth against trusting the words of the witches, whom to Banquo are â€Å"The instruments of darkness.† (I, iii) In announcing Malcolm as the next hire to the thrown; his successor Duncan equalizes nobleness with the stars Macbeth, in an aside calls on the stars to â€Å"hide their fires† so that light will not be able to see his â€Å"black and deep desires.† (I, iv) this is when he starts to have the mind set and schema of what it is that must be done for him to attain kingship, his ambition is starting to drive him and fuel him to take on the indispensable actions needed. Ambition starts to take over and fill his mind, body and, soul and asking for the darkness of night to hide the evil thoughts that are infusing his min d. In act one scene four, Lady Macbeth calls on â€Å"thick night† to wrap itself in a thick blanket of darkness so that she will not be seen in the act of a dirty deed, for the night to make her stronger and for her womanly features to be thrown aside in order for her to purse the crown by evil means. Before Banquo is murdered, Macbeth calls on the â€Å"sealing night† to â€Å"Scarf up the tender eye of pitiful day† (III, ii). He says, â€Å"Good things of day begin to droop and drowse while nights black agents to their prey do rouse† darkness convers his evil deeds. After Duncan’s murder Ross ask the old man why â€Å"darkness does the face of earth entomb, when living light should kiss it† implying that evil temporarily dominates good but not in the long run. In act five sense five Macbeth equates light as a â€Å"brief candle† and of life as â€Å"a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage†¦ i t is a tale† he also makes a statement that can be viewed as his reflection of his awareness that the sun or light will always gain the upper hand in its clash with darkness and evil, Macbeths ambidextrousness and, ambition are the agents of darkness that lead him to his ruin. Evil and darkness are written all over this play, Macbeth no longer needs something to be of inspiration to him to further his ambition he keeps on going and going until he gets tired and morning comes again, not for him he keeps lady Macbeth in the dark hiding secrets and his plans from her she soon begins to look like that innocent flower without the serpent  underneath who wishes to go back in time to tame that ambition both her and her husband hand to control it, to have saved Duncan’s life the darkness in Lady Macbeths soul is replaced with regret. In act five, scene one, Lady Macbeth’s guilt starts to prey on her causing her to sleep walk, her gentlewoman says â€Å"Why, it stood by her: she has light by her continually, tis her command.† Lady Macbeth needs the light by her as she is sleeping because she fears the consequences of the evil she has done, the darkness is what she fears, the darkness from her dirty deeds puts her state of mind in a dark place she tries to use the candle as this false light to keep her stigma, and culpability away from destroying her. The light is a representation of the peace, and truth she wants back into her life. Macbeth was innocent at first, however when act three, scene two comes around the block; he is no longer dependent on his wife’s pushiness to lead him on, but on the darkness of his own driving ambition Shakespeare uses an abundant amount of brutal imagery in correlation to blood to develop Macbeth as a character and his growing ambition from start to finish as Macbeth is in a deep battle with himself; his innate prestige fighting with his ambition. All humans know that blood is closely associated to violence, however in Macbeth blood comes to symbolize something greater; guilt and ambition. Deaths and brutal killings happen very fast, the bodies are discarded but the blood of the innocent do not wash away, instead the blood remains on the hands of evil, it stains. Macbeth and Lady Macbeth can never wash the blood; guilt of their evil deeds from their hands it is impossible. The imagery of blood in Macbeth is important because it signifies what the innocent victim’s life has left behind, also symbolizing how true humanity and morality in Macbeth has been lost. In shedding the pure blood of the â€Å"God† like Duncan and the loyal Banquo, Macbeth’s hands have become stained with the sins of his bloody dirty deeds. Macbeths ambition lead him to transform in to humane that lacks a clean heart, with a dark soul, no compassions, it leads him to go from wanting power to deepening on it and needing it, his vaulting ambition drives him to places where no human with a good soul would ever want to go. A deep, dark, and, scary place full of killing, blood, pain, and guilt. As consequence of all their evil doings through their guilt Macbeth sees ghosts of Banquo and Lady  Macbeth envisions spots of Duncan’s blood that will not wash away â€Å"Out, damned spot! Out, I say†¦ Yet who would have thought the old man to have had so much blood in him† (IV, iii). With the use of blood imagery we see how Macbeth through his ambition goes from a loyal and noble man whom was well respected at the beginning of the play, to an ominous, disreputable man in the end. Macbeth went from a thane to a king very quickly as a thane he was very respected and honorable as Duncan said â€Å"O valiant cousin, worthy gentlemen!† (I, ii), but with his kingship came change â€Å"Devilish Macbeth, by many of these trains hath sought to win me into his power† (IV, iii) through blood the transformation is clear†¦ Macbeth bleeds blood honorably in war defending his country; Scotland â€Å"For brave Macbeth—well he deserves that name— Disdaining fortune, with his brandish’d steel, Which smoked with bloody execution, Like velour’s minion carved out his passage till he faced the slave;† (I,ii) Macbeth’s next encounter with blood is when it is upon the dagger that he hallucinates of, while contemplating on killing Duncan, through this imagery of blood Macbeth convinces his mind to commit the deed right after the heinous murder of Duncan through blood we see the great change in Macbeth that has occurred, when he kills two innocent souls. â€Å"O yet I do repent me of my fury, that I did kill them.† (II, iii). He slays the guards with no hesitation or empathy showing us that Macbeth has lost control over himself, his is drunk in his ambition and will not stop no matter what no longer he can be controlled by Lady Macbeth or anybody else for that matter. Through the imagery of blood one can infer that ambition is the driving force of this play, Macbeth presents ambition as a dangerous quality for any human to have, and ambition goes hand and hand with morality and humanity which Macbeth lost over the course of the play through his multiple evil doings. Havi ng a moral code and humanity is needed and very valuable in positions of power than sightless, dark ambition.