What are dynamic capabilities and how do they differ from static Essay

What are dynamic capabilities and how do they differ from static capabilities - Essay Example It is basically hands on situation where a problem arise you solve it without having any planned solution in mind. This means that although knowledge may exist in people it can only be expressed within the organisation. As Winter said 'firms are organisations that know how to do things' (Winter, 1988, p.175). Winter is emphasizing the importance of being a part of an organization that is you are most likely to tackle a problem depending on the situation. Tacit knowledge is tough to replicate or imitate. If possible, it can only be transferred through teaching by example, and then this is only the case with knowledge which is observable. Thus this makes an organisational capability into a source of maintaining competitive advantage. Dynamic capabilities, as known today, are a set of specific and identifiable processes such as product development or strategic decision making with expected outcomes. They are detailed, analytic and stable processes for globalized manufacturing companies to continuously improve their performance and gain competitive advantage through establishing new plants and shutting down non-performing units. Thus dynamic capability is "a learned and stable pattern of collective activity through which the organization systematically generates and modifies its operating routines in pursuit of improved effectiveness" (Zollo and Winter, 2002). This proves that dynamic capabilities are procedures and understandings that help organizations to develop more competent practices and search for more efficient technologies, new or improved products and manufacturing process. According to Teece, Pisano and Shuen, many strategy scholars remain doubtful about the value of the concept of "dynamic... Dynamic capabilities, as known today, are a set of specific and identifiable processes such as product development or strategic decision making with expected outcomes. They are detailed, analytic and stable processes for globalized manufacturing companies to continuously improve their performance and gain competitive advantage through establishing new plants and shutting down non-performing units. Thus dynamic capability is â€Å"a learned and stable pattern of collective activity through which the organization systematically generates and modifies its operating routines in pursuit of improved effectiveness†. This proves that dynamic capabilities are procedures and understandings that help organizations to develop more competent practices and search for more efficient technologies, new or improved products, and manufacturing process. According to Teece, Pisano, and Shuen, many strategy scholars remain doubtful about the value of the concept of â€Å"dynamic capabilities.† Though it is seen as a key to competitive advantage, critics rather believe that they are born and not made meaning they are skeptical about them being the intentional genuine option for managers instead. However one can only accept this proposal productive only if it is widely adopted.

What does it mean to be a human Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

What does it mean to be a human - Essay Example Religious elites have on the other hand come up with contradictory argument on the origin, traits as well as development of human species (Lee 3). However, despite the existence of various conflicting ideas and views about the concept human, scholars have come into a consensus on some of the main traits of human. There are some scholars who hold the perception that, the current definition of basic concepts human lacks some very essential transformation that are brought about by emerging technological development(Martin Luther King 23). In addition, modern researchers and critical thinkers have as well condemned the current information on human as being shallow and inconsistent. This therefore means that the knowledge on human is a very essential aspect in describing human growth and development. Most of the accessible information regarding human cannot stand the test of time. However, despite being inadequate, there is sufficient information to describe the concept human. The subsequ ent essay will therefore describe the meaning of human. What Makes Us Human? At its basic description, being human is being born with physical appearance and traits that defines their interaction with others. By referring to this definition, being human is the act one being born into the continuous community of human being. Despite having, the characters that are used to define human being, researchers and other social thinkers have as well come up with other traits that can be used to describe human. For a starter, human must understand moral principle and standards of happiness and wisdom. Every peaceful society is defined and identified by specific moral and principles. Therefore, to be categorised as human, one must demonstrate the understanding and effective utilisation of the existing moral and ethical issues. Secondly, social life is a very essential aspect that defines the concept human. In this case, social life is used to describe one interaction with other members of the society. Modes of communication, social role and responsibilities, social expectations, social roles and regulations as well as social beliefs are some of the core aspects that describe one social life. Other social aspects that are used to describe human social life entails eating pattern and habit, means of taking care of infant and new borne, means of building social networks with community members and members of other societies and acceptable means of interacting with the environment(Lee 7). Thirdly, language is a very essential factor that define peaceful community. Language is described as the main means of enhancing communication in the society. Therefore, for an individual to qualify to be human he or she ought to understand some of the basic signs and symbols that enhance effective communication in a society. On the other hand, researchers have claimed that, communication signs and symbols play a very essential role in determining the manner in which human being live and op erate in the society. Language and other communication and interaction symbols as well offer new ways and means of coping with the unpredictable changes in the environment. In addition, human is defined by one’s human capacity to peaceful community and happiness. Compared to other creatures in the universe, human being is presumed to have the highest level of brain capacity to interact and communicate with others. The memory capacity of an effective and complete human is as well expected to be high and functional. Based on the accessible scientific researches and theories, as human being encounter new social, economic, cultural, and

How Does the Writer of This Text Use Language and Grammar Essay Example for Free

How Does the Writer of This Text Use Language and Grammar Essay The author uses jargon, puns and compound sentences to shape his readers response. This is done by paying attention to his audience which is the readers of the Metro, which are public transport users. Also to his purpose which is to entertain his audience. Puns are used to give a light-hearted effect to entertain his audience. This is evident where the author says â€Å"A new musical talent spreads his wings†. This provides entertainment to his readers in the form of comedy. Additionally the words he uses acts as a metaphor, yet in this case the phrase is quite literal as he is talking about a fly. This quite an effective pun. The use of puns provides amusement to his audience and by placing this pun at the beginning of this article it makes the reader intrigued to read on. Furthermore puns are used throughout the article to keep the reader engaged. Jargon is used also as a way to present his readers with photography knowledge. He uses a quote from the photographer which says â€Å"†¦to give a refreshing view on insect marco-photography†. By using this the author gives the public a small insight to what technology goes into taking these photos. This uses of jargon also presents another purpose as it shows the photographer of these fly photos to be a professional within this business. Also that it makes it easier for people who know about the subject to follow, as specialized terms can be used without losing information. This is useful as he has a very wide audience and some may understand these terms. The use of compound sentences adds more detail and information. The author says â€Å"Nearly all the photographs of Mr Fly, whose first name was Gerald, were taken in Mr Hendrickx’s bedroom, using mostly natural light and a small eight megapixel camera.† By saying this the author adds more richness to the sentence and therefore by doing so adds more information to his readers. By adding more information the author can entertain his audience which are on the public transport on their journeys. Furthermore that by using compound  sentences it is more effective in creating a balance between two important pieces of information, thereby leaving the reader with a better understanding of the article. To conclude by using all this techniques the author of the text can keep his audience engaged and entertained while reading his article and furthermore provide them with information which they may not of known prior.

What Is Decision Support System?

What Is Decision Support System? DSS can be defined as use of computer application that can help managers, staff members, or people who interact within the organization to make decisions and identify problems by using available data and communication technology. Origin Of DSS In 1960 J. C. R. Licklider wrote a paper on his observation of how the interaction between man and computer can improve the quality and competency in recognising and problem solving. His paper proved to be like a guide to many future researches on DSS. In 1962 with use of hypertext online system helped in storage and retrieval of documents and creation of digital libraries. SAGE (Semi Automatic Ground Environment) built by Forrester is probably the first data driven computerised DSS. In 1964 Scott Morton built up an interactive model driven management decision system which could help managers make important management decisions. In 1970 John D.C. Little noted that the requirement for designing models and system to make a management decision was completeness to data, simplicity, ease of control and robustness, which till date are relevant in improving and evaluating modern DSSs. By 1975 he built up a DSS called Brandaid which could support promotion, advertising, pricing and product r elated decisions. In 1974 the focus was on giving managers with information which was from accounting and transaction processing system with use if MIS(Management Information Systems) but MIS was found to not helping out managers with making key decisions. Hence in 1979 Scott Morton and Gorry argued that MIS just primarily focused on structured decisions and hence the system which also supports unstructured and semi-structured decision should be termed as Decision support systems. In s nutshell developments:- 1960Æ’Â   Building model-driven DSS 1970 Æ’Â   Theory developments Mid 80s Æ’Â  Implementation of financial planning systems, spreadsheet DSS and Group DSS. Early 90s Æ’Â   Evolving of Data warehouses, Executive Information Systems, OLAP and Business Intelligence. Mid 90s Æ’Â  Knowledge-driven DSS and the implementation of Web-based DSS Types Of DSS: Model Driven DSS `Quantitative models provide the most basic level of functionality. Model driven DSSs use small data and parameters provided by the DSSs users usually managers to help them in analysing a problem and generate statistical, financial report and simulation model to help the decision makers. Model driven DSSs question can help organisational processes to answer the WHAT IF question and thus help them forecast the effects of changes in business process. Ferguson and Jones production scheduling application was also a model-driven DSS but Scott-Mortons in 1971, production planning management decision system was the first widely discussed model-driven DSS. Data Driven DSS Data driven DSS are systems which makes use of companys mostly internal data and sometimes external and real time data to help organisations make decisions. Usually the data comes in form of databases or data warehouse which allows queries and data retrieval tools and analysis to make decisions. Richard Klaas and Charles Weiss at American Airlines developed one of the first data-driven DSS. An example of data driven DSS can be use of digital maps or the GIS( Geographic Information System). Communication Driven DSS Communication Driven DSS helps in decision making to internal group of people by sharing of information and enabling communication between them. Most basic example can be the threaded email between a group and complex example can be video conferencing. In communication driven DSS communication technologies is most important component of its working architecture. In recent years internet provided vast possibilities to communication driven DSS. Groupware bulletin video and audio conferencing are few of the technologies used for communication Driven DSS. Document Driven DSS Document driven DSS uses the organisations documents such as policies, procedures, processes, specifications, historical, stored documents and processing technologies to give documental analysis and enhance decision making. This type is system is usually targeted at larger base of users. Internet greatly increases the availability of all required documents and hence helps in development of document driven DSS. Knowledge Driven DSS Knowledge Driven DSS are used usually by managers to help them with management advice or to choose products or services. These DSSs can be just a standalone computers with applications which are expert in particular domain along with its understanding so as to solve the problems of that particular domain. Artificial intelligence is vastly used by such application to help Knowledge driven DSSs. Now a days Knowledge Driven DSS coupled with intelligence systems are used at medical diagnostic centres, fraud detection and scheduling manufacturing operations. Web-based DSS Computerized DSSs capabilities were extended with emergence of internet and world-wide web. With passing time HTML developed and TAGS and tables further helped in enhancing Web-based DSS. With all these developments web-based DSS became main platform for all types of DSS to develop. Corporate have started using intranet for knowledge management and support information exchange between various departments. The server that is having the DSS application is connected to the computer by a network through the TCP/IP protocol. Recently application service providers introduced enterprise knowledge portals that combined information portals, knowledge management, business intelligence and communications-driven DSS in an integrated Web environment. Benefits of DSS Improves efficiency Helps in faster problem solving Helps in interpersonal communication Promotes learning Increases organizational control Provides new evidence in support of a decision Creates a competitive advantage over competition Encourages exploration and discovery on the part of the decision maker Reveals new approaches to thinking about the problem space Helps automate the managerial processes. Cost reduction and enhance profit. Disadvantages of DSS Over dependency for Decision making Assuming it to be correct. Unanticipated effects Deflect personal responsibilities Information overload. Conclusion DSS is still and evolving technology. The types of DSS mentioned are just few of the many DSS which are around and help organization in decision making. Many of the types of DSS are subsets of previously researched and created DSS with added functionality and/or requirements. A very brief span of historical data has been used to portray DSS evolution and growth in early years. All the scientists, researchers and professors then set up a base for future DSS to develop and build upon to enhance and simplify decision making. By understanding how DSS evolved over the period of time and how its still being developed helps us in understanding how and where the future DSSs are heading and what to expect next in this fast emerging technology. Of the types discussed Web based is the most rapidly growing and improving DSS. Recent developments in internet, computers and communication devices are helping Web-based DSS application to divulge into various other fields. DSS and DSS application continues to take advantage of any and all emerging technologies in artificial intelligence, databases, data warehouses, human interaction with computers which can help improve it more and simplify decision making. Sources/References:: http://www.bestpricecomputers.co.uk/glossary/decision-support-systems.htm http://searchcio.techtarget.com/definition/decision-support-system http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decision_support_system http://dssresources.com/history/dsshistory.html Vitamin E: Functions and Metabolism Vitamin E: Functions and Metabolism Vitamin E is one of 4 fat-soluble vitamins. The vitamin is formed by plants, and has eight unlike isoforms separated into two classes of four vitamins each. The compounds include of a 6-chromanol ring and an isoprenoid side chain.The group bond to the R1, R2 and R3 position on the 6-chromanol ring verify whether the vitamin is acknowledged as alpha, beta, gamma, or delta.(www.exrx.nt, 2011) A large body of the study now focuses on the alpha tocopherol form of vitamin E, which is the most biologically active (Tiidus, P. M., and M. E. Houston, 1995, Traber, M.G., 1999). Recently gamma tocopherol has been a subject of importance by countless researchers. Vitamins are a vital source of life. Vitamins are any organic that is essential for many living things to obtain a normal healthy living. (Dorling Kindersley, 1998) Dietary Function Vitamin E is an essential part of cellular membranes whose main role is to protect the cell alongside to oxidation, Within cells and organelles vitamin E is the first line of defence against lipid per oxidation. The vitamin also acts as a very important function in providing elasticity to red blood cells as they travel through the arterial system. Artificial vitamin E nominates dl-alpha-tocopherol, is less expensive from the naturally occurring form, d-alpha tocopherol. The expected/natural form of the vitamin is synthesised only by vegetation and is found mostly in plant oils. Vitamin E is also present in large numbers in the chloroplast and as a result the leaf of most plants.The fat-soluble property of vitamin E allows it to be stored within the fatty tissues of humans and animals. Therefore a diet that includes meat supplies additional vitamin E. However, the amount of vitamin E obtained in a high protein meat complete diet is less than the quantity supplied by a plant source. Metabolism Absorption and Bioavaliability Absorption of vitamin E is highly reliant on the same process that develop during fatty acid digestion and metabolism. A lack of any component of these transporters will reduce carrier structure and in turn vitamin E absorption. vitriol acids are a measured essential for vitamin E absorption and micelle formation. Once formed, the micelle is then able to cross the undiluted water layer and discharge its contents into the enterocyte. A contemplation of the flow pressure of vitamin E through the enterocyte has been elusive to researchers (Traber, M.G., 1999). The ingested Vitamin E is quickly vacant from the bloodstream, into tissues as blood concentrations of vitamin E in humans and animals have minute relation to the quantity within the body. Vitamin E is fat soluble; food intake could potentially persuade its bioavailability, it is claimed that the alpha-tocopherol has the highest bioavailability. The lower bioavailability of Vitamin E is form a typical vitamin E supplement, and the changeability which is experimented when consumed, this suggest that vitamin e is poorly absorbed through the body with low-fat meals. Vitamin E can be improved by food reinforcement makes Vitamin E more bio-available .Bioavailability of vitamin E, is influenced by the increase of risk in coronary heart disease. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that is vital for our bodies, to preserve optimum health and in people diets. Vitamin E is extensive and in all kinds of foods. Most vitamin E comes from vegetable oil and products made from them like margarine and salad dressings. It is important for youth,in order to maintain their health. It aids in protecting red blood cells, defends the body against oxidative damage and helps avoid damage of both vitamins A C. Having vitamin E as part of a well balanced diet can reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer, also slows down the effect of Alzheimers disease when consumed in high dosage Once in the blood 15 to 45% of the total vitamin E intake can be absorbed by the cells. Transport Upon reaching the bicollateral exterior of the enterocyte vitamin E is packed into chylomicrons and then elated throughout the body via the movement. Within five minutes of arrangement chylomicrons are broken down by lipoprotein lipase and the contents are isolated towards a range of paths. The vitamin E in the chylomicron equilibrates both with (HDLS) and (LDLS) ( Groff, J.L., Gropper S.S., and Hunt S.M 1995). HDLS all circulate lipoproteins which eventually receive vitamin E, as HDL fervently relocates the compound to the lipoproteins at a rate equivalent to 10% of the plasma vitamin E per hour (Traber, M.G., 1999). The vitamin E remaining in the chylomicron becomes a chylomicron remnant and travels back to the liver for re-uptake in a process that has garnered much research, but so far is poorly understood. Once in the liver the vitamin E is packaged into Very Low Density Lipoproteins (VLDL) and excreted back into the circulation. Being the most biologically active of the eight vi tamers, (Groff, J.L., Gropper S.S., and Hunt S.M 1995, Kanter, M.M. 1998, National Academy of Sciences. 2000, Traber, M.G., 1999, www.exrx.nt), alpha tocopherol is sequestered by the liver and constitutes over 80% of the total vitamin E packaged into the VLDL and secreted by the liver (Traber, M.G., 1999, www.exrx.nt). The predominant transfer of the alpha vitamer is performed by alpha tocopherol transfer protein (ATTP). As the VLDL are broken down by lipoprotein lipase, Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL) are formed and from these lipoproteins the vitamin E is transferred to HDL and eventually incorporated into either circulating lipoproteins or peripheral tissue. Any of the previously mentioned lipoproteins have the ability to transfer vitamin E to the tissue as needed (Groff, J.L., Gropper S.S., and Hunt S.M 1995, Traber, M.G., 1999, www.exrx.nt). A final mechanism for vitamin E is uptake by the peripheral tissue from the chylomicron via lipoprotein lipase activity. Unlike re-uptake o f vitamin E by the chylomicron remnant, uptake of the vitamer by peripheral tissue is better understood. After vitamin E has been transferred to the LDL from the chylomicron two receptors (LDL dependent receptor and LDL independent receptor) within the tissue play a key role in the uptake of vitamin E into the cell (Traber, M.G., 1999, www.exrx.nt). Storage Vitamin E is a lipid soluble vitamin and therefore over 90% of total body vitamin E is found in the adipose tissue (National Academy of Sciences, 2000, Traber, M.G., 1999, www.exrx.nt). Over 90% of these pools are found as a part of an adipocyte fat droplet whereas the remaining amount is found mainly in adipocyte cellular membrane. The storage ratios of vitamin E are also very difficult to alter. It takes over two years to alter the ratio of alpha to gamma isoforms. Previous studies have shown that the ratio is altered as the alpha vitamin replaces the gamma vitamin, which is reduced by 70% (Tiidus, P. M., and M. E. Houston, 1995, www.exrx.nt). Concentrations of vitamin E cover a wide range in body tissues. In the plasma the concentration of vitamin E is approximately 27 umol/l. Within skeletal muscle protein the vitamin E concentration varies considerably depending upon the type of muscle (National Academy of Sciences, 2000). Although a large majority of vitamin E is found in adipo se tissue (230 nmol/g wet weight) (National Academy of Sciences, 2000) there isnt an organ that function to store and discharge vitamin E. The actual means regarding vitamin E release from the tissue is unknown at this time. While it seems likely that vitamin E is released during lipolysis associated with exercise this may not be true. Research has shown that even during times of weight reduction vitamin E is not released from the adipose cells (Traber, M.G., 1999). Therefore, the factors that regulate bioavliability of vitamin E from adipose tissue are not known. Requirements As it is unknown how much vitamin E should be consumed by adults, it is aid that according to the (RDA) that men whould have a Vitamin E intake of 15 mgs and 10 mgs for females.(S.Frances,2006) Only natural alpha-tocopherol can typically provide supplements of Vitamin E, and only existing one stereo-isometric form. The need for vitamin E increases as people diet consist of more polyunsaturated fats and oils as the oils in Vitamin E needs a source of antioxidants to help absorption/and protection. Vitamin E is largely contained in raw oils. In 1968 the RDA for vitamin E was established at 300 IU (300 mg) for a 65 kg adult male ( National Academy of Sciences. 2001).The detailed RDA is listed in table 1 and table 2. This daily level is difficult to reach unless a diet high in polyunsaturated fatty acids was consumed ( Tiidus, P. M., and M. E. Houston1995)From 1 mg of vitamin E approximately .3 ( Traber, M.G., 1999) to .5 is in the alpha vitamin form and therefore readily absorbed. The o ther vitamers are not stored as efficiently and usually excreted ( Tiidus, P. M., and M. E. Houston1995, Traber, M.G., 1999). Therefore a new RDA was set based on the alpha-tocopherol form of the vitamin. In 1989 the RDA for Vitamin E was set at 10 mg alpha tocopherol for men and 8 mg of alpha-tocopherol for women (Traber, M.G., 1999, www.exrx.nt). In the year 2000 all RDA values were in the process of being replaced by Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI). The DRI has been established at 15 IU of alpha-tocopherol. The revised DRI levels are the same for both men and women ( Packer, L.1997, www.exrx.nt). Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) In 1968, the recommended dietary allowance for vitamin E was established at 300 IU (300 mg) for a 65 kg adult male ( National Academy of Sciences. 2001. The other vitamins are not stored as efficiently and usually excreted (Tiidus, P. M., and M. E. Houston1995, Traber, M.G., 1999). In accordance to information resourced from Traber, M.G. in 1999 , there was a new recommended dietary allowance which was set based on the alpha-tocopherol form of the vitamin. In 1989 the RDA for Vitamin E was set at 10 mg alpha tocopherol for men and 8 mg of alpha-tocopherol for women. Deficiency Anaemia, muscle necrosis, and foetal death have been observed in over fifteen different vitamin-E-deficient animal species.(www.exrx.nt) .Humans who have fat mal-absorption suffer from the same symptoms shown in rats, but to a lesser degree. These manifestations are exhibited early in childhood. Some of the symptoms include decreased sensory perception, muscle weakness, scoliosis, and muscle structural abnormalities. These symptoms can usually be reversed using vitamin E supplementation ( Tiidus, P. M., and M. E. Houston1995, www.exrx.nt)) Vitamin E deficient diets fed to adult humans have resulted in the formation of very few deficiency symptoms. (Bunnell R.H., E. De Ritter, S.H. Rubin 1975, www.exrx.nt) has shown that prisoners performing strenuous physical labour while fed a vitamin-E deficient diet for 13 months exhibited no deficiency symptoms. A diet full of vitamin E may lower the risk of cancer and the likely hood of death, in part through oxidation and inflammation. Lacking vitamin E concentrations in the blood; people die more often and than people with a high blood concentration (s.Frances, 2006).Through research and development of vitamin E has an effect on helping slowing down the loss of function that occurs in Alzheimers disease when taken in excessive dosages. Toxicity Vitamin E toxicity has not often been acknowledged in humans. Doses up to 1600 I.U. have been usually administered in study with no clear unpleasant side effects. Toxicity may be complex since there is a wide variant in daily blood vitamin E levels. Increasing vitamin E levels in muscle tissue is especially difficult to attain and therefore toxic levels are difficult to achieve. Meydani et al. ( Karlsson J.,1997, www.exrx.nt) given 800 I.U. of vitamin E to subjects for a period of 48 days and only saw a 37% increase in plasma alpha tocopherol levels (www.exrx.nt). The tocopherol binding protein is most commonly said to manage the quantity of vitamin E that can be physiologically stored. High levels of vitamin E are likely excreted by the body. Conclusion In conclusion vitamin E may help reduce oxidative stress and lipid per oxidation of cellular membranes. The current Dietary Recommended Intake for vitamin E meets the needs of most individuals can be achieved through a healthy diet, and eating plan. In April 2000 The National Academy of Sciences according to Packer, L. In 1997 established an intake maximum of 1100 I.U for synthetic and 1500 I.U. for natural vitamin E. These maximum levels are approximately one hundred times the Dietary Recommended Intake. Vitamin E supplementation by both active and non active individuals is widely employed. The choice to supplement or not supplement a diet with vitamin E is an option. REFERENCE LIST Bunnell R.H., E. De Ritter, S.H. Rubin. Effect of feeidng polyunsaturated fatty acids with a low vitamin E diet on blood levels of tocopherol in men peroforming hard physical labour. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 28:706-711, 1975. Clarkson P. M. Antioxidants and physical performance. Crit. Rev. Food Sci. Nutr 35: 131-141, 1995. Class notes on vitamins and minerals. Dr. Mariam Farhad, 2011 Groff, J.L., Gropper S.S., and Hunt S.M. The Fat Soluble Vitamins. In: Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. Minneapolis: West Publishing Company, 1995, p. 284-324. Hartman, A., A.M. Neiss, M. Grunert-Fuchs, B. Poch, and G. Speit. Vitamin E prevents exercise-induced DNA damage. Mutat. Res. 346: 195-202, 1995. http://consumerlab.com/RDAS viewed 15.05.2011 http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminE.asp viewed 13.05.2011 http://www.exrx.nt/nutrition/antixidants/vitaminE.html viewed 15.05.2011 Karlsson J. Exercise, muscle metabolism and the antioxidant defense. World Rev. Nutr. Diet. 82:81-100, 1997. Packer L. Protective role of vitamin E in biological systems. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 53:1050S-1055S, 1991. Rokitski, L., E. Logemann, A.N. Sagredos, M. Murphy, W. Wetzel-Roth, and J. Keul. Lipid peroxidation and antioxidative vitamins under extreme stress. Acta. Physiol. Scand. 151: 149-158, 1994 Traber, M.G., 1999. Vitamin E. In: Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. Ninth Edition. Edited by Maurice Shils, James Olson, Moshe Shike, and A. Catharine Ross. Baltimore: Williams Wilkins, 1999 p. 347-362. Watt, T., T.T. Romet, I. McFalane, D. McGuey, C. Allen, and R. C. Goode. Vitamin E and oxygen consumption. Lancet. 2: 354-358, 1974. T., T.T. Romet, I. McFalane, D. McGuey, C. Allen, and R. C. Goode. Vitamin E and oxygen consumption. Lancet. 2: 354-358, 1974.

The Sociological Imagination

The Sociological Imagination Diet is increasingly being viewed as a key component of health, and food and related topics have become of great interest to health professionals and sociologists. Sociological Imagination What C. Wright Mills called the sociological imagination is the recognition that what happens in an individuals life and may appear purely personal has social consequences that actually reflect much wider public issues. Human behaviour and biography shapes society, and vise-versa and one cannot be properly understood without the other. If a sociologist was trying to understand two friends having coffee for example then they would examine it as social interaction, as acceptable drug taking, and as part of a complex mix of social and economic processes. They might also assess the fact that coffee is produced by the poor but drunk mainly by the better off, they would examine the history of coffee drinking. (Giddens, 2001). This paper will examine why it may be the case that diet is increasingly being viewed as a key component of health, and food and related topics have become of great interest to health professionals and sociologists. It will begin with a brief explanation of sociologys interests and will then examine why diet, food and related topics have generated such interest. Finally, the paper will investigate this question through the use of the sociological imagination. The study of society became an important feature of academic life in the nineteenth century. It is generally acknowledged that the founding fathers of sociology are Marx, Durkheim, and Weber. Auguste Comte was also an important figure and actually coined the term sociology Sociologists study peoples lives and try to understand the nature of reality through people. One of the reasons that diet has become of increasing significance within social science discourse is due to the fact that sociologists regard the ways in which people eat, and also what they eat, as a social practice. Giddens (2001) argues that in all societies eating and drinking are most often accompanied by social interaction, celebrations and rituals and this makes them of interest to sociologists. Recognisable changes in eating habits are also of interest to sociologists because these changes signify other changes in the social structure. Choosing to eat a particular food can play a part in shaping the market for that kind of food. This then affects the lives of those who produce it, some of whom may live on the other side of the world. Sociologists have long argued that the medical establishment operates on a bio-medical model of health which holds that disease is located in the person and health can be restored through appropriate medical treatment. Sociologists, on the other hand, argue that health and illness are socially and culturally defined and they, along with many health professionals, believe that human beings make choices which affect their health and well-being. Improvements in health during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries were the result of higher standards of public hygiene. Clean drinking water and the effective disposal of sewage helped reduce the number of deaths from infectious diseases, the infant mortality rate also dropped (Bilton et al, 1996). The gap between rich and poor, or the connections between social class and other factors such as health have been of sociological concern since Marx’s work on capitalism. Those people who belong to higher social classes tend to have better life chances, be more healthy, and live longer than those lower down the social scale. The better off people are, the more inclined they are to eat well and healthily (Giddens, 2001). In the Third World, vaccination programmes are not as effective as they should be because people do not have enough to eat. Being well fed is the best way of preventing disease that there is and this is one reason why diet is of concern to health professionals and sociologists. Increasingly it has also become a factor in government policy making. The Black Report of 1980 was commissioned by the Conservative Government to investigate class inequalities in health (Townsend et al 1988).. Margaret Thatcher was unhappy with the findings which carried an enormous cos t factor for the government (Giddens, 2001). Her Government introduced marketisation into the health service thus producing a model of providers and purchasers of care. During the past twenty years there have been significant changes in policy making because of concerns over the costs of public health. Governments have tended to focus on public health campaigns such as healthy eating programmes in an attempt to get people to take more responsibility for their health and to save public money. Thus some of the focus that health practitioners and sociologists place on diet and food is as a result of, or in response to, changing Government policies and the production of Government White Papers such as the 1992 Health of the Nation paper. In the nineteenth century a large number of deaths were a result of what has been called the disease of poverty (Browne, 1998:443) because most of those who died were poor and badly nourished. In the twentieth century the diseases of poverty have been replaced by what have been called the diseases of affluence, where people eat too much of the wrong things, for example foods that are high in fat and cholesterol, and smoke and drink too much (Browne, 1998). It is linked to over-consumption in other areas because as people earn more money they are able to afford more but these consumption patterns are not only detrimental to individuals but also to our environment. More than two thirds of the world are starving and have a shortfall in their crop supplies and an increasing population. Yet in the Western world where population growth is much slower there are often huge surpluses of grain (Giddens, 2001). Some large companies have seen a market here for genetically modified foods. They sa y that the introduction of gm foods could transform the world’s food supplies. Lifestyle choices like exercise and diet are regarded as a key factor in whether a person is ill or healthy. In modern industrialised societies the problem is not caused by too little food, but too much food that is not good for us. So we have new forms of illness such as obesity, stomach ulcers, diabetes and heart disease where more people suffer from chronic illness than they may have done in the past. These diseases are largely preventable but in recent years there has been increased public concern over the food supply. Scares such as CJD and BSE in beef along with a number of outbreaks of food poisoning have caused considerable concern and some health professionals have blamed asthma on poor diet. Cancer has also been linked in a government report (1997) to the type of food that people eat. The branding and marketing of junk food has been highly successful. Huge multi-national companies such as MacDonalds are not just selling fast food, they are selling a life-style that is attra ctive to many young people. Sociologically it’s interesting if only for the resulting standardisation, the recognisable brand. You can find a MacDonalds in almost every country in the world and know, at least to some extent, what you are going to get. In Britain we eat a much more processed diet where food often has colourings flavourings and preservatives that are harmful to health, and produce what has beome a medicalised condition of hyperactivity in children. Although some health professionals recommend a change in diet the medical establishment has tried to ‘cure’ it with a drug called Ritalin rather than drawing attention to the social causes (Giddens, 2001). Why do we eat unhealthy foods? The foods that are good for us, such as organic fruit and vegetables and wholemeal bread are more expensive than mass produced processed food. Multi-national firms control the food market and they are more concerned with making a profit than anything else. Healthy foods are also a money spinners and the health food industry makes a huge profit on vitamins and food supplements. As Browne (1998) argues health itself has become big business, companies sell it and at the same time they continue to produce the types of food that contribute to health problems, disease, and death. Conclusion Through the use of the sociological imagination this paper has investigated why sociologists and health professionals have taken such an interest in diet as a key component of health and in food and related subjects. There appear to be a number of explanations, not least the increasing inequalities in healthcare provision and the continuing differences in life chances between rich and poor. The marketisation of health has also generated a number of government policies that focus on personal responsibility, personal choice, and healthy eating programmes. Sociologists have always been interested in the power differentials at work in society. Bilton et al (1996) contend that the medical profession have had considerable power in controlling definitions of health and illness. Public concern with health, diet, and debates about food will continue to be of interest to sociologists because they argue that these things are socially and culturally produced and it is becoming increasingly more evident that these discourses are closely allied with major economic and political interests.

The Definition of Cyberpunk Essay -- Science Fiction Literary Genre Es

The Definition of Cyberpunk In Bruce Sterling's article, "Cyberpunk in the Nineties," he explained how public opinion had defined himself, Rucker, Shiner, Shirley, and Gibson as the cyberpunk "gurus" in the 1980's. Because of being labeled cyberpunk "gurus," the public had come to understand the definition of cyberpunk as "anything that cyberpunks write." To break this definition of cyberpunk established by popular public opinion, I will pursue giving cyberpunk a more definite definition. After reading numerous cyberpunk fiction stories, I noticed reoccurring themes in these stories. I believe these themes can form a criteria under which a story can be defined as cyberpunk. These criteria are total enhancement and integration of everyday life by technology, some degree of pleasure (by the author) in explaining this technology, cyber-lingo, and some degree of global connectiveness. The first criterion or theme, total enhancement and integration of everyday life by technology is probably the most obvious and vital in order for a story to be deemed cyberpunk. Why is it the most obvious and most vital? It is the most obvious because cyberpunk writers use the "everyday," that is, objects, concepts, or places we causally shrug off as normal, and integrate/enhance the normal with technology. A good example can be found in John Shirley's "Freezone." Upon entering the "Semiconductor" the scene is unusual but appears to be a everyday freak club. An occasional flare dots the audience. They have multi-colored hair that is styled straight up. In reaction to the flares and much more frequent than the flares are minimonos; they have ultra-straight hair falling down past their shoulders and uniform monochrome colored clothes. Anyway, the ... ...d projecting its evolution in the future, he is not intimidated, therefore he is able to enjoy himself in explaining this concept or technology. Furthermore, because the author is reflecting off of a society so obsessed with detail, he is obligated to present his story is such a detailed fashion. Basically, I think, that if cyberpunk fiction fulfills its purpose then the four criteria will fall naturally into place and therefore these four criteria build the backbone of the definition of cyberpunk. Works Cited Sterling, Bruce, Ed. Mirrorshades. New York: Arbor House, 1988. Cadigan, Pat. "Rock On" Shirley, John. "Freezone" Browning, Tonya, Ed. Writing About Cyberpunk. Austin: Abel's Copies, 1995. McCaffrey, Larry. Storming the Reality Studio Gibson, William. "Johnny Mnemonic" Tiptree, James Jr. "The Girl Who Was Plugged In"

Soliloquies Essay - Kates Soliloquy in The Taming of the Shrew :: Taming Shrew Essays

Kate's Soliloquy in The Taming of the Shrew Kate's soliloquy brings about a joyous conclusion to The Taming of the Shrew. The audience leaves the theatre with a pleasant feeling, glad that such a shrew could be tamed so well. Kate herself realised the error of her ways, making the men feel confident while making the women feel safe. Moreover, the audience found the speech to be very sound and sensible, as the views expressed in the play were extremely popular at that point in time. Kate, in realising her iniquitous ways, made the men feel extremely confident of their status in Elizabethan society, and effectively reinforced their beliefs about their own strength. Also, Shakespeare succeeds in creating a feeling of safety for the female audience, as well as in making them feel as through they are accepted for their kindness to men, and in the norm. Women, not having a strong role in society at that time, enjoyed receiving praise and encouragement for their purpose in society. Furthermore, they felt vindicated as Kate solemnly insulted the disobedient women (Bianca and the Widow), telling them to "Come, come, you froward and unable worms!". It may also be said that this play, as well as similar plays of the Elizabethan era, assisted in contributing to the oppression of females in society for an innumerable amount of years. After the conclusion of The Taming of the Shrew, including Kate's soliloquy, the audience is left with a proud feeling - proud of the fact that Petruchio tamed such a shrew so well. The men of the audience are about with feeling of satisfaction and justification. Shakespeare skillfully catered towards both sexes by using Petruchio much like the stereotypical action figure of today; a character who does the unbelievable effortlessly and leaves the audience in awe. In the play Petruchio, short after the inception of his skillful wooing, begins a plan "to kill a wife with kindness". Craftily he gives her anything that she pleases, only to swipe it away when he finds a flaw in the item. he also resorts to keeping Kate as a prisoner in his home, until she slowly becomes subservient and submissive to him.