Cultural Sensitivity And Culture And Other Practices

Cultural Sensitivity Khader Salami Cultural sensitivity refers to the awareness as well as the sensitivity to culture and other practices. Cultural sensitivity can encompass examining different cultures and how they should be accurately approached in the health care. It also includes how to communicate according to within the health care setting. Cultural sensitivity is important area because it can impact the way people work in the health care facilities. It also encompasses valuing differences so as harassment, discrimination, either intended or not. Culture is a fundamental and complex concept which consists of broad aspects of people in the health care setting (Campinha-Bacote, 2003). It includes the concepts of sexual orientation, gender, faith, age, disability, race, ethnicity, profession and socioeconomic status. Cultural sensitivity stems from this understanding in that; it’s inlcude interpersonal skill as well as the knowledge that will allow the providers of health care, appreciate, understand, and work with individuals from different cultures other than theirs. It also consists of acceptance and awareness of the people’s cultural differences, knowledge, self-awareness of the cultures of the patient and adapting to the skills. Many cultural groups, including lesbian and gay people, individuals with disabilities, lower socio-economic groups and ethnic minorities, forShow MoreRelatedIntercultural Abilities Nurses Should Have951 Words   |  4 Pagesnumber of diverse cultures within the health care system. Therefore, nurses in general, or any healthcare professionals not only need to know how to care of patients from their culture, but they also must be able to care of patients from other cultures with different health beliefs, values, and practices. Cultural views of individuals influence their perceptions and decisions of health attitudes and health cares; in order to care for people across different languages and cultures, nurses need to developRead MoreCulture Sensiti vity And The Asian Culture1076 Words   |  5 PagesCulture sensitivity, or cultural competency, is the knowledge that allow workers to recognize or value different cultures and differences other than their own, to give them the ability to respond efficiently to various cultural needs (Denisco Barker, 2015). Specifically, in the Asian-American group, there are numerous cultural differences that are prominent and diverse regarding healthcare. For this paper, the Asian cultural group was chosen because my family is part of this ethnic group. In additionRead MoreRecognizing the Need for Cultural Change1137 Words   |  5 PagesNeed for Cultural Change Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Cultural awareness 3. Cultural sensitivity 4. Cultural competence 5. 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ACA and NAADAC is a guide that will help the counselor to reference. An ACA code that will help the counselor with multicultural code to use in the practice is A.2.C â€Å"Developmental and Cultural Sensitivity counselors communicate information in ways that are both developmentally and culturally appropriate. The counselors use clear and understandableRead MoreCultural Competency And Social Work Practice1098 Words   |  5 PagesThe BusinessDictionary.com defines cultural competency as, â€Å"A set of behaviors, policies, and attitudes which form a system or agency which allows cross-cultural groups to effectively work professionally in situations. This includes human behaviors, languages, communications, actions, values, religious beliefs, social groups, and ethic perceptions. Individuals are competent to function on their own and within an organization where multi-cultural situations will be present† (2016). Our communitiesRead MoreProfessional Communication: Cultural Sensitivity among Native Americans1630 Words   |  7 PagesProfessional Communication: Cultural Sensitivity among Native Americans Professional Communication: Cultural Sensitivity In nursing school, we are normally taught that we should respect the dignity and rights of all clients. As the world becomes reduced and societies and individuals become more mobile, we are progressively able to network with people that are from other cultures. Cultural respect and competence for others becomes particularly significant for us as nurses and patient supportersRead MoreCultural Sensitivity And The Therapeutic Relationship1361 Words   |  6 PagesCultural Sensitivity and the Therapeutic Relationship The evolution of the human being is constant and multidimensional. We are always shifting, as individuals and as a society, quickly or slowly, biologically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. The differences among us create a mosaic-like society, rich in diversity and culture. Arnold and Boggs (2016) define culture as a complex social concept, which encompasses socially transmitted communication styles, family customs, political systems, andRead MoreEssay about Cultural Sensitivity, Knowledge, and Skills from Nurses806 Words   |  4 Pagestheir patients, but they also must be able to care of patients from other cultures with many beliefs and values. Cultural views of individual influence the patient’s perception and decision of health and health care (Creasia Parker, 2007). In order to care for people across different languages and cultures, nurses need to develop cultural sensitivity, knowledge, and skills. Cultural sensitivity means being aware that cultural differences and similarities exist and have an effect on values, learningRead MoreCultural Assessment And Its Impact On Health Care907 Words   |  4 Pages(2014), Culture plays an integral role in healthcare. Culturally congruent care is care that is customized to fit with the patient’s own values, beliefs, traditions, practices, and lifestyle. As nurses we are expected to deliver culturally congruent care. We may not always agree with our patients cultural practices, but we must try to incorporate them into the individualized plan of care for our patients, as long as these practices do not cause harm. Campinha-Bacote emphasized that a cultural assessment

Selling Crack By Philippe Bourgois - 1866 Words

In Search of Respect: Selling crack in El barrio, written by Philippe Bourgois, is a compelling ethnography about the lives and struggles of Puerto Rican immigrants living in East Harlem, New York. Bourgois moved his wife and infant child to live in amongst the streets of East Harlem, referred to also as Spanish Harlem or El barrio, to actively participate in the community to get a better understanding of the underground untaxed economy (p.1). Bourgois in the years he lived in East Harlem established relationships with a group of around 24 drug dealers and their families (p.2) and obtained information through means such as â€Å"taped conversations, hundreds of nights in crack houses, †¦ went to parties and intimate reunions† (p.13). This total†¦show more content†¦This shows the profitability of the drug trade and the absolute dependence on the underground economy for those under the poverty line in El Barrio to survive. Bourgois’ conversations also revea led that many were trapped in the drug trade and strongly desired to earn money legally but due to a lack of education were unable to get a legal job that is regular and sufficient (p.114). Bourgois uncovered that many struggled in the legal job market due to institutionalised racism and the culture shock between life in El Barrio and the outside working world (p.145, pp.158-161). Bourgois was also able to gain important information about the dealer’s school experiences which essentially ruined their chances of making a legal life for themselves as many experienced violence and ridicule at the hands of the public schooling system and dropped out early (pp.174-178). Showing the value and strength of the participant observation fieldwork. Bourgois’ everyday interactions with his neighbour who were also his study subjects meant that over the five years his field work began to show how the Puerto Rican traditional culture and street culture of New York heavily influenced those who lived in El Barrio. The long term fieldwork Bourgois conducted revealed the complexities of this culture which can be exemplified in the relationship the Puerto Rican drug dealers have with legal employment. Primo, one of the dealers BourgoisShow MoreRelatedThe Use Of Drugs And Its Effects On Social Status1115 Words   |  5 Pagesdisadvantages in society. In Philippe Bourgois’s book, In Search of Respect, a Puerto Rican immigrant named Primo lived in New York City’s East Harlem. Because of his lack of education and cultural capital, he wasn’t able to find a legal paying job. Also having the burden of having to support for his family, he became a victim into the world crack. Drug dealing led Primo to drug addiction , which led him to throw away his income on more drugs (Bourgois,2013). Bourgois was trying to show the intensityRead MoreSelling in the Barrio: The Culture of Poverty Essay1165 Words   |  5 Pagesgroups and ethnicities are negatively affected by poverty. Those in the lowest social class, while a mix of ethnicities, are predominantly minorities and affected the most. What stood out about Philippe Bourgeois’ is that he not only studies the people and their culture but he lived it with them. Mr. Bourgois spent two years with his wife and child living with the Puerto Rican’s in East Harlem, NY. He lived with them and became a friend to many of them with the hopes of providing an accurate analysisRead MoreIn Search Of Respect Selling Crack In El Barrio Summary1248 Words   |  5 PagesPhillipe Bourgois’s study of social marginalisation in inner city America in his ethnography ‘In Search of Respect – Selling Crack in El Barrio’, won critical a cclaim when first published in 1995. For the first time, an anthropologist had managed to gain the trust and long-term friendship of street-level drug dealers in one of the nation’s roughest ghetto neighbourhoods – East Harlem (Bourgois, 2003). He had originally come to study poverty and ethnic segregation, the political economy of inner-city streetRead MoreHegemonic Hypocrisy: A Victim of Social Scriptorium1168 Words   |  5 Pagesamidst a war involving all three cultural topographies. Albeit she speaks from a subjective standpoint, she does not mention the issue of racial hygiene, class, geographic divisions, and gender. Passages from Guenter Lewy, Melissa Wright, and Philippe Bourgois will be used to discuss the way in which different positionalities might affect the analysis of â€Å"Dislocated Identities.† In â€Å"Dislocated Identities,† Dr. Shohat tells of the reification of identity categories. Identity categories are hypotheticalRead MoreFeminicide, Gender Violence Against Women5270 Words   |  22 Pagesreplaced by service industries† (Bourgois 2004: 114). This conversion completely changed the dynamics of the workplace for the women working in the maquiladoras and most importantly the men, in the city of Jà ¹arez and the areas near the border. According to economists and sociologists alike, the repercussions from this shift in economic dynamics have led to, â€Å"unemployment, income reduction, weaker unions, and dramatic erosions in worker’s beneï ¬ ts at the entry level† (Bourgois 2004: 114). These outcomes

Managing Human Resources Top Trucking Company

Questions: 1. How do the new workplace practices introduced by the new yard manager complement one another? 2. What are the risks to sustaining these changes if George or the yard manager moves on? 3. Do you think tough blue collar unions like the Transport Workers Union are more of less likely to engage in workplace changes like these than public or service sector unions? Why? How would you find out if you are right? Answers: Introduction Human resource department of any organization needs to be strong enough so that they are able to handle the employees well during the time of crisis as well as in the normal times (Armstrong Taylor, 2014). If the human resource manager is efficient enough then it will help in prevailing a healthy and peaceful atmosphere at the workplace (Sparrow, Brewster Chung, 2016). The employees will be happy working in the organization and the works will be satisfied in the organization (Storey, 2014). Once the workers will be given a better environment to work, they will be more creative and productive in their work (Purce, 2014). The case study of Top Trucking Company that talks about the Constructive Relations will help in throwing light o the better workplace practices that should be prevalent in an organization. There has been a change in the yard manager and the situation before and after the change will be studied in the report. The report will shed light on the fact that the employees need proper supervision as well as freedom so that they can work freely in the organization. 1. New workplace practices as introduced by the new yard manager The behaviour and actions of the employees that are prevalent in the workplace can be defined as the workplace practice (Renwick, Redman Maguire, 2013). As per Budhwar Debrah, (2013), if the workplace practice is good, the employees will be happy and satisfied in the organization. They would work hard and in turn help in raising the productivity of the organization (Alfes et al., 2013). If there is proper communication among the employees, they will be able to learn well and positive work culture will prevail among the employees (Armstrong Taylor, 2017). The main difference between the new yard manger and the previous yard manager is the way of handling the employees. When on one hand, the previous yard manager was only keen on getting the job done; the new manager is keen on making the employees learn and work together. The new manager has been able to implement a communicative environment in the workplace. As a result, the employees will be able to communicate well among each other and that will in turn help in the building a bond between the employees (Wilton, 2016). To give rise to a healthy workplace practice, the new yard manager has implemented the following practices in the workplace: Workplace risk management The new yard manager knows that he employees will be able to work in a better manner only when they will be given a safe and healthy environment to work in. The person has looked into every possible aspects that will help the employees to work properly. The ventilation has been changed. The workplace is now more airy with better light. A special cell has been created to look after the mental health of the employees. Thus, if any of the employees is not happy with something or someone, they can contact the cell. The issues of the employees will be resolved at once by the organization (Kramar, 2014). Giving autonomy to the employees The employees feel free in the organization once they are given little amount of freedom in the workplace (Marler Fisher, 2013). None of the employees likes to be treated as children (Parboteeah, Seriki Hoegl, 2014). The new yard manager looked after the issue of employee autonomy as well. The employees are no given the autonomy to take decisions while carrying out their work. They are being involved in taking the big decisions in the organization. Even though the final decision is being taken by the yard manager but the employees are always invited to give their opinion. If any of the opinions of the employees sound fruitful then the opinion is being put to use by the manager (Jabbour et al., 2013). Training and development for the employees The problems of the employees in the workplace are always being heard with proper detail (Messersmith Wales, 2013). None of the employees are blamed without knowing the cause of the problems. The new yard manager goes to the root cause of any issue and then takes the call. He do not rely on one person or one incident to decide the cause of the issue. The employees are always empowered by giving them proper training in the organization (Armstrong Taylor, 2014). If the employees need to know anything new that will help them to compete well in the external market, the yard manager takes care of that and makes sure that the employees get the proper knowledge (Sparrow, Brewster Chung, 2016). The new yard manager is always ready for any training and development programs that will help the employees to develop the skills. 2. Risk for sustaining organizational changes The manager of an organization is hugely responsible for handling the employees (Storey, 2014). Even though the employees have their own area of expertise, a manager is needed to supervise whether the employees are working properly in the organization (Purce, 2014). If George or the yard manager moves on then there is chance that Top Trucking Company can face the following risks: Little or no control over the employees The expertise of the workers is not the only thing that helps an organization to perform (Renwick, Redman Maguire, 2013). At times, the ways the employees perform are being hugely dependent on the way they are being handled (Budhwar Debrah, 2013). If the manager moves on then there will be nobody to supervise in the organization. The employees will be confused regarding whom to report, as they will be without a manager (Alfes et al., 2013). It will take time in settling down in the new environment, which will in turn hamper the productivity of the organization (Armstrong Taylor, 2017). Conflict at work Trade union is one such department that helps in maintaining a proper relation between the employees and the managers (Wilton, 2016). At times, the managers might not be able accept the demands of the employees (Marler Fisher, 2013). The trade union comes to play in those situations. It helps in maintaining a harmony the manager and the employees by coming to a balanced bargain (Kramar, 2014). If George moves on, then the issues of the employees will not be resolved as there will be nobody to settle the issues. Once the issues would not be resolved in the organization, the conflict between the employees will keep on rising. Deterioration in the efficiency of the workers A manager is needed in the organization who will be able to keep a check on the performance of the employees (Parboteeah, Seriki Hoegl, 2014). He is the one who decides whether any department or employee needs training. He checks the efficiency level of the employees in the organization along with the efficiency level of the employees of other organizations. If the manger moves on, there will be nobody to supervise the employees and evaluate whether there is any need for training (Jabbour et al., 2013). Eventually, the efficiency of the employees will decrease and they would not be able to perform well (Messersmith Wales, 2013). Increase in turnover of the employees A company without a manager will always call for chaos (Armstrong Taylor, 2014). The employees will not be happy in the organization as there will be no maintenance. They will be unable to develop their skills and hence they will become less competent than the employees of other organizations will (Sparrow, Brewster Chung, 2016). They will seek better opportunities in different organizations, which will result in more turnovers (Storey, 2014). 3.Tough Blue Collar Unions VS Public or Service Sector Unions When the tough blue collars unions and the Public or Service Sector Unions are being compared to each other, it has been seen that the tough blue collars unions are more open to changes (Purce, 2014). As far as the Transport Worker Union of the organization concerned, the appointment the new yard manager have changed a lot in then organization. Hence, it can be said that Blue Collar Unions will be more welcoming to the change as they will be more benefitted. Before the new manager has been appointed, the drivers have been ill-treated. The drivers were being blamed for no reason. As the new yard manager has changed the operation, then issues are now being looked closely. Whenever, there is any issue in the organization, the employees are not being blamed. The change in the yard manger is being is seen to be a good step towards good management and helped in building the Transport Worker Union. They have accepted the change and are now open to more changed in the organizations. It has been seen that in the beginning there has been some arguments between the new yard manager and the members of the union when he has brought the changes. Thus, it can be said to be the those members belonged from the service union who not ready for any kind of change (Renwick, Redman Maguire, 2013). The members from the service union will have to restructure themselves as per the change. The entire organization is becoming better structured and hence, there is a huge need to change as per the need for the change in the organization (Budhwar Debrah, 2013). The change that has been brought by the new yard manager has benefitted the entire organization (Alfes et al., 2013). Hence, it can be said that the blue collar will help in bringing the change in a better manner than the service unions. Conclusion After going through the case study of Top Trucking Company, it can be said that the employees need a manager who will listen to them as well as guide them in every aspect. The old yard manger has always pressurized the employees, the new yard manager along with George will help in bringing the change in the organization. Then employees are given more power and they are given the freedom themselves. The manager of the organization along with George should not move on as it will again result in poor structure of the organization. Finally, the blue collars union should be brought in as they help in brining the changes in a better manner. References Alfes, K., Shantz, A. D., Truss, C., Soane, E. C. (2013). The link between perceived human resource management practices, engagement and employee behaviour: a moderated mediation model.The international journal of human resource management,24(2), 330-351. Armstrong, M., Taylor, S. (2014).Armstrong's handbook of human resource management practice. Kogan Page Publishers. Armstrong, M., Taylor, S. (2017).Armstrong's handbook of human resource management practice. Kogan Page Publishers. Budhwar, P. S., Debrah, Y. A. (Eds.). (2013).Human resource management in developing countries. Routledge. Jabbour, C. J. C., de Sousa Jabbour, A. B. L., Govindan, K., Teixeira, A. A., de Souza Freitas, W. R. (2013). Environmental management and operational performance in automotive companies in Brazil: the role of human resource management and lean manufacturing.Journal of Cleaner Production,47, 129-140. Kramar, R. (2014). Beyond strategic human resource management: is sustainable human resource management the next approach?.The International Journal of Human Resource Management,25(8), 1069-1089. Marler, J. H., Fisher, S. L. (2013). An evidence-based review of e-HRM and strategic human resource management.Human Resource Management Review,23(1), 18-36. Messersmith, J. G., Wales, W. J. (2013). Entrepreneurial orientation and performance in young firms: The role of human resource management.International Small Business Journal,31(2), 115-136. Parboteeah, K. P., Seriki, H. T., Hoegl, M. (2014). Ethnic diversity, corruption and ethical climates in sub-Saharan Africa: Recognizing the significance of human resource management.The International Journal of Human Resource Management,25(7), 979-1001. Purce, J. (2014). The impact of corporate strategy on human resource management.New Perspectives on Human Resource Management (Routledge Revivals),67. Renwick, D. W., Redman, T., Maguire, S. (2013). Green human resource management: A review and research agenda.International Journal of Management Reviews,15(1), 1-14. Sparrow, P., Brewster, C., Chung, C. (2016).Globalizing human resource management. Routledge. Storey, J. (2014).New Perspectives on Human Resource Management (Routledge Revivals). Routledge. Wilton, N. (2016).An introduction to human resource management. Sage.

The importance of fungi free essay sample

Fungi are tremendously important to human society and the planet we live on. They provide fundamental products including foods, medicines, and enzymes important to industry. They are also the unsung heroes of nearly all terrestrial ecosystems, hidden from view but inseparable from the processes that sustain life on the planet. THE MEDICAL IMPORTANCE OF FUNGI Most Fungal genera have tremendous applications in modern medicine some of which include; Drugs from Fungi At the beginning of the 21st century, Fungi were involved in the industrial processing of more than 10 of the 20 most profitable products used in medicine. Three anti-cholesterol statins, the antibiotic penicillin and the immunosuppressant cyclosporin A are among the top 10. Fungi are extremely useful organisms in biotechnology. Fungi construct unique complex molecules using established metabolic pathways. Different taxa produce sets of related molecules, each with slightly different final products. Metabolites formed along the metabolic pathway may also be biologically active. We will write a custom essay sample on The importance of fungi or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page In addition, the final compounds are often released into the environment. Manipulation of the genome, and environmental conditions during formation of compounds, enable the optimisation of product formation. On the negative side, single isolates of fungi in manufacture may lose their capacity to form or release the target molecules. Indeed, the target compound may only be expressed under specific conditions, or at a specific point in the life cycle of the fungus. It is amazing that so many biologically active compounds have been discovered and taken to point where they are medically important. The role of fungi was established early in history. Yeasts have been used in the making of bread and alcohol since the beginning of civilisation. LINK In modern times, the discovery of penicillin marked the beginning of a new approach to human health and established the importance of fungi. Antibiotics From Fungi In 1941, penicillin from the fungus Penicillium chrysogenum was first used successfully to treat an infection caused by a bacterium. In doing so, it revolutionised treatment of disease. Many formally fatal diseases caused by bacteria became treatable, and new forms of medical intervention were possible. When penicillin was first produced, the concentration of active ingredient was approximately 1 microgram per ml of broth solution. Today, improved strains and highly developed fermentation technologies produce more than 700 micrograms per ml of active ingredient. In the early broths, several closely related molecules were present. These molecules are beta lactam rings fused to five-membered thiazolidine rings, with a side chain. The side chain can be chemically modified to provide slightly different properties to the compound. The natural penicillins have a number of disadvantages. They are destroyed in the acid stomach, and so cannot be used orally. They are sensitive to beta lactamases, which are produced by resistant bacteria, thus reducing their effectiveness. They also only act on gram positive bacteria. Modifications to manufacturing conditions have resulted in the development of oral forms. However, antibiotic resistance among bacteria is becoming an extremely important aspect determining the long-term use of antibiotics. Cephalosporins also contain the beta lactam ring. The original fungus found to produce the compounds was a Cephalosporium, hence the name. As with penicillin, the cephalosporin antibiotics have a number of disadvantages. Industrial modification of the active ingredients has reduced these problems. The only useful antifungal agent from fungi is griseofulvin. The original source was Penicillium griseofulvin. Griseofulvin is fungistatic, rather than fungicidal. It is used for the treatment of dermatophytes, as it accumulates in the hair and skin following topical application. The antifungal agents are readily and cheaply produced industrially. Immune Suppressants Cyclosporin A is a primary metabolite of several fungi, including Trichoderma polysporum and Cylindrocarpon lucidum. Cyclosporin A has proven to be a powerful immunosuppressant in mammals, being widely used during and after bone marrow and organ transplants in humans. Cyclosporin A is a cyclic peptide consisting of 11 mainly hydrophobic amino acids. Its inhibition of lymphocytes was first discovered during the 1970s. Subsequently, the mode of action was elucidated. Cyclosporin A binds to a cytosolic protein called cyclophilin. Cyclophilin is found amongst many different organisms and its form appears highly conserved. Cyclophilin is involved with folding the protein ribonuclease. However, the Cyclosporin A/cyclophilin complex also binds to calcineurin. Calcineurin dephosphorylates a transcription factor, thereby triggering transcription of numerous genes associated with T cell proliferation. When the complex binds to calcineurin, T cell proliferation is suppressed. The inhibition of T cells proliferation results in the suppression of the activation process associated with invasion by foreign bodies. As a consequence, transplant tissues, which are foreign bodies, are not rejected. Calcineurin is also highly conserved amongst phylogenetically diverse organisms. In fungi such as the human pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans, calcineurin is necessary for recovery from cell cycle arrest, growth in hypertonic solutions and regulation of the calcium pump. Thus the interaction of the Cyclosporin A/cyclophilin complex with calcineurin in Cryptococcus will result in death of the pathogen. However, in humans, cyclosporin also suppresses the immune system. The side effect is an unacceptable risk, and Cyclosporin A is not used as a fungicide in humans at present. Gliotoxins also have immunological and antibiotic activity. Produced by many fungi including Aspergillus fumigatus, gliotoxins belong to a class of compounds called epipolythiodioxopiperazines. The antibiotic activity is widely recognised and considered uninteresting. However, its effect on the immune system, especially macrophages, is being re-examined. A wide range of other compounds with antibiotic activity are also known. They have been rejected for use in medicine because of unwanted side effects, or instability of the active compound. Ergot Alkaloids Claviceps purpurea is the causal agent of St Anthonies fire, a scourge of the middle ages when ergots contaminated flour. LINK The ergots contain many alkaloids. Their effects are quite variable. They act on the sympathetic nervous system resulting in the inhibition of noradrenaline and sclerotin, causing dilation of blood vessels. They also act directly on the smooth muscles of the uterus causing contractions, thus their early use to induce abortion. Their strongest effect is intoxication, caused by lysergic acid amides, one of which is the recreational (and illegal) drug, LSD. Seeds of Paspalumreplaced by C. paspalli. Ergot alkaloids have a number of medicinal uses. Perhaps the most widespread use is in the treatment of migraines. The vasodilator activity reduces tension during an attack. The drugs also reduce blood pressure, though with untoward side effects. Alkaloids are now produced in culture by strains of C. fusiformis and C. paspalii. Statins Aspergillus griseus, a soil-borne fungus, produces secondary metabolites that have a different range of effects. The molecules called statins have been used to reduce or remove low density lipoproteins from blood vessels in humans. In fact, the compounds all act via an enzyme in the liver that makes cholesterol. By blocking the enzyme, the body removes cholesterol complexes from the inside of blood vessels. This has the effect of reducing or removing blockages in arteries, and thereby reducing the chance of a heart attack, strokes and diabetes. In addition, statins have been implicated in attracting stem cells to damaged tissues. The stem cells then appear to regenerate the tissue. Some statins induce problems. One form of the drug has been associated with muscle wastage. Others appear to lack side effects and have been recommended for wide spread use to control heart disease. Some examples of medicinal mushrooms: Cordyceps sinensis, a powerful antioxidant, has been used for centuries as a general tonic for promoting longevity, vitality, and endurance. Additionally, Cordyceps sinensis has been clinically shown to support cardiovascular health, enhance respiration and balance cholesterol levels. Agaricus blazei are medicinal mushrooms comprised of powerful nutrients called beta-glucans and other polysaccharides that have been clinically shown to enhance the immune system. Additionallly, Agaricus blazei helps to maintain healthy glucose levels, and balance healthy cholesterol levels. A delicious culinary mushroom, the maitake (Grifola frondosus) is also traditionally used in Asia as an energy tonic to increase vitality. Comprised of powerful beta-glucans, maitake is used primarily to promote a healthy immune system. Clinical research has shown that maitake protects healthy cells, enhances the immune system, and normalizes cell division. Additionally, maitake provides nutritional support for balanced cholesterol levels, blood sugar and blood pressure. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) has been used for centuries as a vital part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. A versatile medicinal mushroom, Reishi has been clinically shown to balance energy and glucose levels, support cardiovascular health, enhance the immune system and assist with liver detoxification. As a natural immuno-modulator, Reishi is also known to promote a healthy inflammatory response Traditional Chinese Medicine, hot water extracts of the inedible fruit-bodies have been used for a wide range of conditions, refreshing the human body and prolonging longevity. Phellinus linteus is a relative newcomer to the medicinal mushroom category, and has been shown to support the immune system. Traditionally, this mushroom is boiled in water and ingested as tea. Also used in skin creams, Phellinus linteus is believed to rejuvenate the skin Turkey tail (Coriolus versicolor)is perhaps the most investigated medicinal mushroom in the world with over 400 scientific studies, including several clinical studies conducted to validate its immune-enhancing properties. Turkey tail is the core ingredient in PSK, also known as Krestin, as well as PSP, and is widely used in Japan and China for individuals with compromised and depleted immune systems Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is typically used in Traditional Chinese medicine for restoring balance to the digestive system. Native Americans commonly used this mushroom in a powder form as a band aid for minor cuts and scrapes. Known primarily as a culinary delight, the shiitake mushroom is also believed to help boost the immune system and restore balanced cholesterol levels. The shiitake is high in vitamins, namely iron, niacin and B 1 and b2 – and its sun-dried form contains vitamin D. Fungi are extremely useful organisms in biotechnology. Fungi construct unique complex molecules using established metabolic pathways. Different taxa produce sets of related molecules, each with slightly different final products. Metabolites formed along the metabolic pathway may also be biologically active. In addition, the final compounds are often released into the environment. Manipulation of the genome, and environmental conditions during formation of compounds, enable the optimisation of product formation. On the negative side, single isolates of fungi in manufacture may lose their capacity to form or release the target molecules. Indeed, the target compound may only be expressed under specific conditions, or at a specific point in the life cycle of the fungus. It is amazing that so many biologically active compounds have been discovered and taken to point where they are medically important. The role of fungi was established early in history. Yeasts have been used in the making of bread and alcohol since the beginning of civilisation. LINK In modern times, the discovery of penicillin marked the beginning of a new approach to human health and established the importance of fungi. The first antibiotics were extracted from fungi. Penicillin, tetracyclene and aureomycin, Cyclosporin, a drug derived from a fungus that uses insects as its host. Cylcosporin suppresses the immune system of transplant patients hence lowering tissue rejection rates. The lower organisms are used to commercially produce bread, beer, wine, cheese, organic acids, and vitamins including Vitamin C. The Vitamin C tablet we take may be a by product of fungal growth. Mushrooms are probiotic they help our body strengthen itself and fight off illness by maintaining physiological homeostasis restoring our bodies balance and natural resistance to disease anti tumor agents have been developed from the fruiting body, mycelia, and culture medium of various medicinal mushrooms (Lentinus edodes, Ganoderma lucidum etc. Tremella fuciformis demonstrates anti-tumor activity, lowers LDL cholesterol, protects the liver and is anti-inflammatory and may slow the aging process. Grifola frondosa (Maitake) has also been shown to stimulate the immune system and to be effective against some tumors. Shiitake (for centuries called Elixir of Life ) has been licensed as a anti-cancer drug Reishi can have a number of effects: Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Antiviral through inducing interferon production, Lowers blood pressure, Cardiotonic action through lowering serum cholesterol, Expectorant Antitussive, Liver (Hepatitis)-protecting and detoxifying, Protection against ionizing radiation, Antibacterial, and Anti-HIV activity. Cordyceps can be effective for treatment of high cholesterol, poor libido/impotence, arrhythmia, lung cancer, and chronic kidney failure. THE INDUSTRIAL IMPORTANCE OF FUNGI Fungi, especially the brewer’s yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, provide us with numerous foods and beverages, including staples like bread and beer. The brewer’s yeast is not only important for the production of delicious consumables, but it is nutritious, being especially rich in vitamin B12. Some molds are important in the maturation of cheeses like blue cheeses (the color comes from the mold’s spores) and for providing a meatlike flavor in the production of many rice, wheat, and soybean products (for example tempeh, miso, soy sauce) used extensively in Asian cuisine. Similarly, fungi are even being used as a meat substitute in products mimicking meat, like Quorn ®. Edible mushrooms are also common vegetables that provide an important source of dietary fibre and complete protein: fungal proteins provide all of the essential amino acids, a consequence of their close relation to animals. Studies have shown that the protein content of the edible penny bun mushroom (also known as porcino, cep, king bolete; Boletus edulis) even rivals and exceeds some meat. This fact is especially important for people that subsist on wild-collected foods and have limited access to other sources of protein. Moreover, some mushrooms used as food may have medicinal properties, providing a smattering of health benefits. They have industrial applications as well and several model organisms are fungi, which enable our understanding of fundamental biology like genetics and development. Entrepreneurs are applying fungi to provide sustainable and biodegradable structural products such as building materials, packing materials, and even vehicle bumpers. Many enzymes produced by fungi are valuable in the paper pulp industry, for bioremediation, and even for fashion: fungal enzymes are used to soften and fade denim jeans. Scientifically, the mould Neurospora crassa and the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae(brewer’s yeast) are model organisms used all over the world in basic and applied science laboratories. And, in 1996,Saccharomyces cerevisiae became the first eukaryote to have its genome sequenced! Many fungi are useful to humans and have been exploited both industrially and commercially. Societies have utilized fungi for centuries in a wide variety of ways by capitalizing on the metabolism and metabolites (chemicals made from metabolism) produced. The oldest and best known example is the use of yeasts performing fermentation in brewing, wine making and bread making. Yeasts and other fungi play a critical role in drug production, food processing, bio-control agents, enzyme biotechnology, as well as research and development. The use of yeast (e. g. Saccharomyces cerevisae) to make alcohol and carbon dioxide uses the fermentation process to break down sugars. Up to 50% of the sugar can be converted to alcohol, but rarely surpasses 15% because the fungi are sensitive to high concentrations of alcohol. In the beer making industry, cereal grains are fermented to make the final product. Wine is composed of fermented grapes while hard cider is essentially fermented apples. Sake is produced by rice fermentation, using Aspergillus oryzae and then an additional fermentation step utilizing bacteria and yeasts. With bread making, fermentation utilizes sugar to produce carbon dioxide and alcohol. The carbon dioxide produces the bubbles and causes bread to rise, while the alcohol produced evaporates off while baking. A variety of foods and drinks are fermented before consumption. Some of the largest industries in the west are based around production of alcohol and bread. In the east, the production of soy sauce and other fermented soybean products are likely among the largest industries. The peoples of Asia have developed a wide variety of interesting fermented foods, sauces and drinks, using fungi. Other examples and the applicable fungi include koji (Aspergillus); miso, soy bean paste (Aspergillus); sufu, Chinese cheese (Rhizopus), nyufu or fuyu, bean cake or bean cheese (Rhizopus); shoyu or soy sauce (Aspergillus, Saccharomyces) and tempeh (Rhizopus). Another way in which fungi are used industrially in the food industry is in cheese production. Various cheeses are inoculated with Penicillium roquefortii to impart a strong and pungent flavor in the resultant cheeses. Examples are Roquefort, Gorgonzola, Stilton Blue and Danish Blue. The white crust on the outside of the cheeses known as Brie and Camembert is the mycelium of Penicillium camembertii. These strong flavors are a result of the fungus producing methyl ketones. Aspergillus is utilized industrially in a number of ways. Most sodas and soft drinks contain citric acid as a main ingredient. Citric acid is also used in other drinks, many candies, canned goods, baked goods, etc. It is too expensive to isolate the citric acid from citrus fruits so it is produced in large-scale fermentation vats utilizing Aspergillus niger. Authentic soy sauce is fermented in a three-step process with the fungi Aspergillus oryzae and Zygosaccharomyces rouxii, as well as the bacterium Pediococcus halophilus . ENVIRONMENTAL IMPORTANCE OF FUNGI Fungi are one of the most important groups of organisms on the planet. This is easy to overlook, given their largely hidden, unseen actions and growth. They are important in an enormous variety of ways. Recycling Fungi, together with bacteria, are responsible for most of the recycling which returns dead material to the soil in a form in which it can be reused. Without fungi, these recycling activities would be seriously reduced. We would effectively be lost under piles many metres thick, of dead plant and animal remains. Mycorrhizae and plant growth Fungi are vitally important for the good growth of most plants, including crops, through the development of mycorrhizal associations. As plants are at the base of most food chains, if their growth was limited, all animal life, including human, would be seriously reduced through starvation. fungi are mycorrhizal partners in trees and plants. Root hairs in trees and plants are often not fine enough to absorb nutrients from the soil by themselves. Mycorrhizal fungi often form a symbiotic partnership with plants and trees fungi provide thin hyphae (unicellular root like structures) that can absorb water and nutrients from the soil more efficiently than root hairs. The trees and plants in turn provide food (complex amino acids etc) for the fungi things that they would normally not be able to obtain. It is proposed that 90% of all the species of trees and plants are dependent on mycorrhizae. There are 2 types of mycorrhizae endotrophic and ectotrophic but thats for another topic of discussion. Biocontrol Fungi such as the Chinese caterpillar fungus, which parasitise insects, can be extremely useful for controlling insect pests of crops. The spores of the fungi are sprayed on the crop pests. Fungi have been used to control Colorado potato beetles, which can devastate potato crops. Spittlebugs, leaf hoppers and citrus rust mites are some of the other insect pests which have been controlled using fungi. This method is generally cheaper and less damaging to the environment than using chemical pesticides Decomposition fungi are able to break down almost anything furthermore they can pair with algae to make lichens which grow almost anywhere lichens are also an important indicator of environmental pollution

Climate of Russia essays

Climate of Russia essays Much of European Russia has warm summers and cold winters. In the polar north, summers are cool and winters are very cold. Northern Russia has temperatures regularly below those in Antarctica. Russias weather was amongst its greatest defences: Napoleon could not conquer due to ice and snow, and Hitlers troops did no better against the Soviet army of Stalin during the winters of the early 40s. The town of Oymyakon is the coldest inhabited place on earth. Its winter temperatures drop to -65C. Moscow's winter average is -12C; the summer average is 24C. Russia is in fact so cold that semiconductors are not widely used in avionics because they cease to operate at these sub-zero temperatures; instead, transistors are used. The European part, which this paper is based on, is located between 40N and 65N and 40E and 65E. ie. the boundaries are the Urals to the east, the Sea of Barents to the north, across to Finland, the Black sea to the west and the Caspian seas to the south. The European part is separated from the Asian part (Western Siberian Plains) by the Ural Mountains. Map of the Russian Federation. Note: European Russia is the shaded area west of the Urals The Russo-European Plain is separated from the Asian part of Russia by the Ural Mountains, but the central Urals are not high enough to block the flow of westerly air mass flows. Nearly half of the area lies below 200m and much of the area is situated well away from sea coasts. The countries that make up the region include Finland and the former USSR states of Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, and Ukraine, Different climates are experienced throughout Russia because it is a large country that spreads through 11 time zones 10, 000km from east to west and 4, 700km from north to south. Due to Russias vast landmass, the climatic zones are divided into two parts: the...

General Daniel Harvey Hill in the Civil War

General Daniel Harvey Hill in the Civil War Daniel Harvey Hill: Early Life Career: Born in the York District of South Carolina on July 21, 1821, Daniel Harvey Hill was the son Solomon and Nancy Hill.   Educated locally, Hill received an appointment to West Point in 1838 and  graduated four years later in the same class as  James Longstreet,  William Rosecrans,  John Pope, and  George Sykes.   Ranked 28th in a class of 56, he accepted a commission in the 1st US Artillery.   With  the outbreak of the  Mexican-American War  four years later, Hill traveled south with  Major General Winfield Scotts army.   During the campaign against Mexico City, he earned a brevet promotion to captain for his performance at the  Battles of Contreras  and  Churubusco.   A brevet to major followed his actions at the  Battle of Chapultepec. Daniel Harvey Hill - Antebellum Years: In 1849, Hill elected to resign his commission and left the 4th US Artillery to accept a teaching post at Washington College in Lexington, VA.   While there, he befriended Thomas J. Jackson who was then serving as a professor at the Virginia Military Institute.   Actively engaged in education over the next decade, Hill also taught at Davidson College before receiving an appointment as superintendent of the North Carolina Military Institute.   In 1857, his ties to Jackson tightened when his friend  married his sisters wife.   Skilled in mathematics, Hill was well-known in the South for his texts on the subject. Daniel Harvey Hill - The Civil War Begins: With the beginning of the Civil War in April 1861, Hill received command of the 1st North Carolina Infantry on May 1.   Dispatched north to the Virginia Peninsula, Hill and his men played a key role in defeating Major General Benjamin Butlers Union forces at the Battle of Big Bethel on June 10.   Promoted to brigadier general the following month, Hill moved through a number of posts in Virginia and North Carolina later that year and into early 1862.   Elevated to major general on March 26, he assumed command of a division in General Joseph E. Johnstons army in Virginia.   As Major General George B. McClellan moved to the Peninsula with the Army of the Potomac in April, Hills men took part in opposing the Union advance at the Siege of Yorktown. Daniel Harvey Hill - Army of Northern Virginia: In late May, Hills division played a central role in the Battle of Seven Pines.   With the ascent of General Robert E. Lee to command of the Army of Northern Virginia, Hill saw action during the Seven Days Battles in late June and early July including Beaver Dam Creek, Gaines Mill, and Malvern Hill.   As Lee moved north following the campaign, Hill and his division received orders to remain in the vicinity of Richmond.   While there, he was tasked with negotiating an agreement for the exchange of prisoners of war. Working with Union Major General John A. Dix, Hill concluded the Dix-Hill Cartel on July 22.   Rejoining Lee following the Confederate victory at Second Manassas, Hill moved north into Maryland. While north of the Potomac, Hill exercised independent command and his men comprised the armys rearguard as it moved north and west.   On September 14, his troops defended Turners and Foxs Gaps during the Battle of South Mountain.   Three days later, Hill performed well at the Battle of Antietam as his men turned back Union assaults against the sunken road.   Following the Confederate defeat, he retreated south with his division serving in Jacksons Second Corps.   On December 13, Hills men saw limited action during the Confederate victory at the Battle of Fredericksburg. Daniel Harvey Hill - Sent West: In April 1863, Hill departed the army to begin recruiting duty in North Carolina.   Following the death of Jackson after the Battle of Chancellorsville a month later, he was irritated when Lee did not appoint him to corps command.   After protecting Richmond from Union efforts, Hill instead received orders to join General Braxton Braggs Army of Tennessee with the provisional rank of lieutenant general.   Taking command of a corps consisting of the divisions of Major Generals Patrick Cleburne and John  C. Breckinridge, he led it effectively at the Battle of Chickamauga that September.   In the wake of the triumph, Hill and several other senior officers openly expressed their unhappiness with Braggs failure to capitalize on the victory.   Visiting the army to resolve the dispute, President Jefferson Davis, a longtime friend of Bragg, found in the commanding generals favor.   When the Army of Tennessee underwent a reorganization, Hill was intentionally left without a comma nd.   In addition, Davis decided not to confirm his promotion his promotion to lieutenant general. Daniel Harvey Hill - Later War: Reduced to major general, Hill served as volunteer aide-de-camp in the  Department of North Carolina and Southern Virginia in 1864.   On January 21, 1865, he assumed command of the  District of Georgia, Department of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.   Possessing few resources, he moved north and led a division in Johnstons army during the final weeks of the war.   Taking part in the Battle of Bentonville in late March, he surrendered with the rest of the army at Bennett Place the following month.    Daniel Harvey Hill - Final Years: Settling in Charlotte, NC in 1866, Hill edited a magazine for three years.   Returning to education, he became president of the University of Arkansas in 1877.   Known for his effective administration, he also taught classes in philosophy and political economy.   Resigning in 1884 due to health issues, Hill settled in Georgia.   A year later, he accepted the presidency of the  Georgia Agriculture and Mechanical College.   In this post until August 1889, Hill again stepped down due to ill health.   Dying at Charlotte on September 23, 1889, he was buried at the Davidson College Cemetery. Selected Sources: Civil War: Daniel Harvey HillCMHLC: Daniel Harvey HillNorth Carolina History Project: Daniel Harvey Hill

EAST ASIA IN THE MODERN WORLD Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

EAST ASIA IN THE MODERN WORLD - Essay Example The Korean immigrants were able to secure employment opportunities, for example, textile manufacturing, construction, and mining (Ebrey, Walthall and Palais 516). In addition, the living conditions of the Immigrants were enhanced due to the earnings they got from their cheap labor. The Korean immigrants were massacred in 1923, after the Great Kanto Earthquake. Also, the immigrant workers experienced extremely harsh conditions in their places of work (Ebrey, Walthall and Palais 514). Some workers were beaten and others lynched in their different places of work. A large number of immigrants from Japan moved from their native lands to different areas as a surge of reverse migration. In addition, these Japanese immigrants moved to other regions because Japan had won numerous wars during this time. Also, during this period, approximately eight hundred thousand Japanese citizens moved to Asia and the Pacific, Russia, South and North America. These people migrated to the different areas to seek appropriate economic opportunities (Ebrey, Walthall and Palais 521). Moreover, approximately two and a half million Japanese individuals moved to Japanese colonies such as Korea, the South Sea Islands, Taiwan, and Sakhalin. The Japanese immigrants were able to access employment positions in the different service and manufacturing industries. The immigrants produced development and change to the lives of the immigrants (Ebrey, Walthall and Palais 521). The Japanese immigrants were able to get access to improved opportunities to achieve their objectives, enhanced prospects, and enhanced living conditions Natives of the different countries treated the Japanese immigrants as inferior. Also, these immigrants experienced social exclusion in the host nations due to ethnic prejudiced exhibited in the different social institutions (Ebrey, Walthall and Palais 524). These people moved to different areas

APA and Scholarly Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

APA and Scholarly Research - Essay Example While there are other research citation styles used for academic research work, not all of these styles are versatile or efficient. MLA, for example, was designed to be mostly used for research work in the Humanities. Turabian style of citation is rather complex to use. The APA style is most versatile because it can be used in any kind of research work and is simple to apply. Since APA is simpler and more efficient to use in citing references for research work, it would then be of good practice for any researcher to develop the habit of doing proper source citation. As long as a researcher makes a good habit of being consistent when it comes to making the proper citation of references to the research work, the less chance there is for the researcher to commit plagiarism. Being consistent in proper source citing would also develop the researcher’s skill in analyzing information in the research

Driving the Dairy business Essay Example for Free

Driving the Dairy business Essay In the article â€Å"Driving the Dairy business†, Howard assert that, this article focuses on the impact of unprecedented food inflation to bakery and dairy products in the U.S. It cites that recent price volatility fueled by a weak dollar, rising energy costs, consumer wariness, competitive pressure and other factors is making it hard to market staples like bakery and dairy items, primarily fluid milk. According to the article, the weakening on the commodity in cheese and nonfat dry milk drives the prices for dairy in general. Application of the content to my group project A company profile of Saputo Inc., which is engaged in manufacturing and marketing of dairy products like milk, cream, sour cream, yogurt and cottage cheese, is presented. An overview of the company is given, along with key facts including contact information, number of employees and revenues. Positive aspects of the article In the article , Howard use the specific numbers and statistics to illustrate the worst food inflation in nearly decades. Also , the author quote some famous person or the authority system said Dairy is a staple item that has been subjected to some record retail price points. That is now softening, which may be good news for the consumer. The flip side is that it will hurt the farmers in the short term so we may see further attrition in the agricultural community because of that Missing items and points The analysis of how to driving dairy business. Personal reflections on the article As the report noted, Smaller households are less likely to shop (a supermarket or convenience store) in-store bakery, in large part because they dont want to deal with waste or spoilage from products that are too big for them to consume. As the categories in cheese and nonfat dry milk are weakened on the commodity side it ultimately drives the prices for dairy in general. If the larger stores like Costco, Wal-Mart and Price Chopper are moving prices down, overall market prices are moving down with them. A lot of the big stores–the club stores, the large supermarkets and the mass merchandisers–will move their milk price each month, going up or going down

Shooting an Elephant by George Orwell Essay -- Orwell Elephant Shootin

Shooting an Elephant by George Orwell Few supervisors experience lack of respect and denunciation from workers because of their positions in a company. Supervisors take actions to preserve the image of authority before subordinates and from being ridiculed by their workers, even if the supervisors object these types of actions. The essay "Shooting an Elephant" relates to this situation. The author of this essay is George Orwell. The author talks about his work and personal experience that emphasizes the impact of imperialism at the sociological and psychological stage. This paper shall discuss the Orwell's essay, how the artistic choices shape the facts in the essay, how the relationship between facts and artistry contributed to the essay, technique used, and how the tension between the facts and artistic intention in his thesis relates to the workplace. Essay, artistic choices, and relationship between facts and artistry. The author joined the Indian Imperial Police as a colonial policeman in Moulmein, lower Burma, located in the part of the British Empire. This story took place in the late 1920s or early 1930s (Orwell, 1996, p.150). The story explains a culture conflict between the British (subjugator) and the Burmese (subjugated). Few British are present nevertheless the British rule, and the narrator, as sub-divisional police officer, is an agent of that rule. This contradiction is part of the setting, as is the local resentment against the British presence. Burmese hates the narrator and manifest this hatred by deception rather than directly. The Burmese would not raise a riot, but would let the British know how they felt. The author stated if a European woman goes through the bazaars alone somebody would probably... ..., the animals, and the psychological space of the people. Imperialism is described with a compelling metaphor. This essay with its metaphors, irony, and imagery relates well with today's workplace. Conclusion Some supervisors have an idea notion that their decisions are the only matters that counts. They become the "leading actor." They do not need to listen to anyone else so they have the strength to act on their own. The irony is that they are being jerked around by every petty instigator who can convince them that the little bickering and debates are their own. So the supervisors, like Orwell, do what can be identified as both ill-advised and incorrect. Reference Orwell, G. (1996). Shooting An Elephant. In C. LaRocoo & J. Coughlin (Eds.), The art of work: An anthology of workplace literature (pp.142-150). Cincinnati: South-Western Educational Publishing

Developmental Analysis of “Big”

In the movie Big, Tom Hanks is an adolescent boy who gets frustrated with the limitations that come with being only 12 years old. He makes a wish that he was older and to his surprise it works! Unfortunately for him, he realizes that being older is not all that it is cracked up to be. Throughout the movie, young Josh (the main character) has to go through the developmental stages that an adult normally goes through, only they are happening all at once for him.I will be using Erosion's stages of psychosocial development to analyze the growth of the Josh's personality. He viewed personality as a result of our social interactions with other people throughout life. Whether we succeed or fail at these certain stages will determine how our personalities develop. Erikson proposed eight stages of development from ages O-65+. From infancy to 18 months is knows as Trust vs. Mistrust Stage. Failure at this can lead to mistrust. 2-3 years is known as Autonomy vs. Shame/Doubt. Failure at this can lead to feelings of shame.From 3-5 years is known as Initiative vs. Guilt. Failure at this can lead to feelings of guilt. From 6-11 years is known as Industry vs. Inferiority. Failure at this can lead to feeling incompetent. After 40 until 65 is known as Generative vs. Stagnation. Failure at this leads to little involvement in the world. Over 65 years of age is known as Ego Integrity vs. Despair. Failure at this can lead to bitterness, despair or regret. Because this movie starts in adolescence (12 years old) and shows the character at about 40 years old, I will only be discussing two stages ofErosion's development: Identity vs. Confusion and Intimacy vs. Isolation. Adolescence (12-18) is the stage known as Identity vs. Confusion. This is when children learn a sense of identity and sense of self. Failure to succeed at this may lead to a weak sense of self and role confusion. This is a time when teens try to find where they â€Å"fit† into society. They may experiment with di fferent hobbies or behaviors. It is important for a teen to be able to explore different paths in a supportive environment so they can form a strong sense of independence and control.In the movie, Josh, went from being a 12 year old to a grown man. He had to move out of his parent's house and start living on his own. The first few nights alone, he was in a dark, dank apartment in a shady part of town. Without the skills that one learns throughout adolescence teaching them what skills they are good at and where they â€Å"fit† in society, Josh was lost. When he meets an owner of a toy company that embraces his â€Å"youthful† attitude, he offers him a Job. This Job entails thinking of and trying out new toy ideas that will popular with the youth of that time.Since Josh mentally is still a 13 year old, this appeals to his interest and is compatible with his development. In a sense he is finding his identity. This is a place where he â€Å"fits in† to society. If h e did not meet the toy shop owner, he may have remained confused about what he should do with himself or where he will fit in. There are many ways in which people know that they are successful in what they are doing. An example of this is when Josh received his first check. He exclaimed â€Å"One hundred and eighty dollars! â€Å". To him this was a great amount.His coworker replies aim, they really screw you. To his coworker, this is not enough. This shows how a specific symbol may convey success to one person and failure to another because of differences in development during the Identity Vs. Confusion stage. Young adulthood (19-40) is known as intimacy vs. isolation. This is when adults seek to find intimate and loving relationships. Failure to accomplish this may lead to loneliness and isolation. This stage is thought to be highly dependent on whether or not one was successful at the previous stage.In order to form intimate relationships, one must have a strong understanding o f who they are. People who have poor sense of self find it harder to stay in committed relationships and often times experience depression or isolation more frequently. This is a good example of how all the stages, while independent, all depend on each other in order for personality to successfully grow. In the movie, there are many situations that occur that depend on previous development of the intimacy vs. isolation stage. At his new Job at the toy company, Josh comes to meet a female coworker named Susan.Throughout the movie Susan grows more attracted to Josh and tries to initiate a more intimate relationship. Unable to pick up on her cues, Josh say inappropriate things that mean something different than what he intends. For example, Susan tells him after a date that she â€Å".. Wants to spend the night with him†. He replies † Oh, like a sleepover? Well Im on top! † In the adult world this would refer to intercourse, but for Josh it referred to bunk beds. Bec ause Josh had never successfully navigated through this specific stage of life, he lacks the skills necessary to be in an adult committed relationship.Because of this, Susan assumes that he Just does not want to commit to her and dismisses his attempts at trying to explain he is really a child. Since Josh is technically only 13 years old, he has not successfully developed a mature sense of self yet. He has not gone through the previous stage, identity vs. confusion. It is only possible to be successful in this sixth stage of social development if a strong sense of self is developed during the previous stage. This movie does a good Job at showing how an incomplete sense of self can inhibit a person from forming committed intimate relationships in adulthood.The ability to form these intimate relationships is very important to both hysterical and mental well being in adulthood because they affect not only personal relationships but also work and community relationships as well. In conc lusion Erosion's stages of psychosocial development are clearly apparent in the movie Big with Tom Hanks. The two stages in particular that are evident are the identity vs. confusion stage and the intimacy vs. isolation stages. These occur between the ages of 12 and 40. In the movie the main character, Josh, is 13 years old and finds himself in a world where he appears and must act as if he is in his ass.While trying o make it in the adult world he is confronted with situations that require certain psycho-social skills that he has yet to develop yet. He begins life as an adult in a state of â€Å"confusion† about where he fits into society. He has not had time to explore what he is good at or what he should do as a career. He has not formed a mature sense of self yet. When he lands a Job as a toy creator, he develops an sense of independence and self worth. This is only because as a toy creator he does not have to do anything that he isn't prepared for. Susan does all the cle rical work and all he must do is think f and play with toys.Another problem he is confronted with is the subject of adult relationships. He must navigate the stage of intimacy vs. isolation at an earlier time than expected. Susan tries to initiate a romantic relationship with Josh to no avail. He interprets these as purely platonic since he is only 13 years old. Susan interprets his reactions as a inability to commit. In real life if Josh was an adult, this would lead to isolation from Susan leading to less committed and secure relationships for Josh. Psycho-Social relationship skills are vitally important for successfully navigating he adult world.The ability to form intimate relationships can lead to happiness and the inability to do so can lead to depression. The ability to develop a strong sense of self and identity is crucial in order to form committed relationships and to know where you fit in with society. Our relationships impact our health and well being throughout our life . Being able to go through the stages of development that Erikson proposed successfully is what leads a person to a happy and fulfilling life.

EMT Task

My mother was in a gang and I have heard horror stories bout the gang activity in Pipelines years ago. Several blocks were claimed by a different gang. Lord for bid you were in the wrong block or wearing the wrong colors. You would get beat up or â€Å"jumped. † I still see some gang activity but I think it has decreased over the years. It seems like the old gang members are at war with community organizations. These gangs are desperately trying to recruit new members, while youth organizations are trying to keep children from joining the gang by providing better opportunities. 3. What are the schools like in Pipelines? The schools have improved a lot.The schools seem to care more about their students, not only when they are in school, but outside of the school as well. I feel like there is more cultural diversity in the schools, and because of this, students are learning more about other families and their differences. 4. What types of services are offered in schools and in y our community for families with children who have special needs? My brother has special needs. That is something my mom always complains about. My brother was diagnosed with a mental disorder a few years ago. His high school teachers labeled him as lazy and not wanting to participate.They had no idea he was going through something very personal and very emotional. My mother had to pull him out of school and homesick him because she said that the teachers were not doing their job. She visited his high school on numerous occasions trying to get the school to do an PEP for him. It never got done. Eventually, my brother lost all interest in returning to school when his condition worsen. Some of the teachers did not believe that he was actually sick. One teacher even made a comment saying why wasn't there anything done for him in his elementary school.Well, he wasn't diagnosed with special deeds until he reached high school and suffered a very traumatic experience. Wish that the school w as more sensitive about this issue. Maybe this way he would have been able to finish school. Now he just stays home and depends on us for help. It makes me sad that the community does not have many resources for children with special needs. 5. Are there enough places for children to attend go after school while their parents are at work? For example: Community centers, youth development programs, day care centers, etc†¦?Yes, schools offer after school programs, park districts offer after school activities, and other places, like the library, offer homework help. There are a few day care centers that offer financial assistance to low income families, if they can't afford to pay for day care. My little sister attends a program at the park district. My mother pays $5 for 3 months. That is nothing compared to other private day cares. My sister can walk there after school (it's only 3 blocks away) with a group of other students. She is there from 2:pm until pm when she gets picked u p by one of us.While she is there, she does a lot of fun stuff with the kids from the neighborhood. 6. Do these after school spots offer learning resources for families? If so, what types of resources are available? Yes, Gaza Sultan offers an after school program for children and SSL classes for parents. Bonito Curare High School has Parent-university, which offers GEED, SSL, Computer classes and parenting skills for parents and the park district which my sister attends offers programs like free meals, affordable summer camp, and they even have a holiday party where the kids get Christmas gifts.This is awesome because some families can't afford to buy their kids Christmas gifts. We are one of those families. 7. Is Pipelines an affordable place to live and raise a family? Pipelines is a lot cheaper than Lincoln park and Logan Square, that's for sure. This is why a lot of college students choose to live in Pipelines. Rent is more affordable. My mother talks about moving out of Pipelin es all the time, but when she sees how expensive rent is in other neighborhoods she quickly changes her mind. She also thinks that moving will make things more stressful for my brother.He knows this neighborhood well and she thinks that moving to a new neighborhood will confuse him and probably have a negative impact on him. The neighbors also know him, they know of his condition, and therefore, she eels he is safe here. 8. Are there free resources for low income families? There are plenty of free resources for low income families. The best place to look is the library. They always post community information on their bulletin boards and many organizations drop off fliers with their information and services. My mom knows a lot of places where they offer free services.She takes advantage of all of these. 9. What is the community doing in order to make positive changes in the neighborhood? There is a program for youth called After School Matters. I worked with them a few years ago. Aft er School Matters encourages managers to learn about art and the youth are encouraged to display their art work through murals around the neighborhood. Organizations like this, give children the power to feel proud of their work. I definitely felt a sense Of pride whenever I walked past a mural I know I helped paint. 10. What is lacking in the Pipelines neighborhood? Hind that we need more resources for families who can't afford medical insurance. Some community organizations offer health screenings for the elderly and some schools offer free dental and vision checks for their students but it doesn't go beyond a simple check -up. I fall into this category. I have a medical condition which requires me to take medication on a daily basis. My mother had Public Aid insurance which is insurance provided by the government for those who can't afford to pay for medical insurance. The bad part about this is that once turned 19, was taken off her insurance because I was no longer her dependen t. Ant get insurance through my job because I am not a full time employee and I do not qualify and can't afford to purchase my own medical insurance because I do not earn enough income. I would have to choose, either I pay for school and school supplies, or I pay for declined and medical care. I choose to pay for my educational expenses instead. Follow up question: How do you get by without medication, if this is something you need on a daily basis? I just do. When the pain is unbearable, I take as many over the counter drugs as I can safely take.I have tried calling different hospitals, clinics, and organizations to see if anyone can help me at least get the medicine I need, but I have had no luck. I do not know where else to look for help. My mother has called so many people, I think they all know who she is and purposely transfer her to different departments Stephanie laughs and finds humor in this) because they don't want to talk to her. Recently applied for the Obama Medical th ingy. I hope I get approved. 1 1. Do you know who your community leaders are and what they've done recently to help your neighborhood? Eave no idea who they are and what they do, but I know for a fact that the residents here are the ones who work the hardest to improve the community. I should know who they are though, maybe one of them can help me get medical insurance! (laughing). 12. Tell me one organization that helps families. Why did you choose this organization? Measures Latinist en Action. This organization empowers women so that women can take care of their families and be strong head of households. MALE helps families find different resources in the community.They also have a great early child hood intervention program which helps children get the help they need at a young age. I think it is so much better to get detected early with any special needs or any medical conditions, it seems like there is more help out there for younger kids, instead of us older ones. If I had to step aside so that a baby can get help before me, I would. I do not have a problem with that. 13. How long do you think you will live here and why? I hope to live in Pipelines for the rest of my life. I would love to raise a family here. I love Pipelines. Love the neighborhood and the art. M an artist. Belong here. B. Summary Stephanie Moline works in a child care center in the North side of Chicago. She has been working there for 3 years. The children she deals with at work come from a different class than the children in her neighborhood. Stephanie stated that she works mostly with high class families and sometimes baby-sits for them to make extra cash. Stephanie has been living in Pipelines for 21 years. She was born in Pipelines. â€Å"My mother has moved around a few times but I have always chosen to stay behind, with my grandmother. I will never leave Pipelines. † Stephanie stated this firmly.I chose Stephanie for my interview because she is an art student who has live d in Pipelines her entire life. I wanted to know why she has never left Pipelines and what makes Pipelines so special. Stephanie is well known in the neighborhood. She has lots of friends and has volunteered in many of the organizations which help children stay off the streets. Met Stephanie about 15 years ago when I volunteered in the elementary school which she attended. Stephanie was always running around and seemed pretty busy for a young girl. Often asked her where she was running off to and her response was, art class, photography class, or to the library.Stephanie was involved in so many of the youth programs available in Pipelines. Know because I volunteered in most and I saw her all the time. Literally watched her grow up. I coached the softball team in which she played and I worked with Stephanie on an art project which was dedicated to one of the youth who lost their life due to gang violence. He was a good friend of hers and I could see how much it hurt her to say good b ye to him. Stephanie seems to know a lot about the programs and different resources in Pipelines. During my interview with Stephanie, I learned some things about her personal life.Stephanie is the oldest of 5 siblings. Her mother was married for ten years and then divorced. Stephanie mother has been raising 5 children on her own, working as a bank teller and earning minimum pay. â€Å"We never had much growing up,† Says Stephanie. â€Å"l remember my mom would find out about all kinds of free events going on in the neighborhood, like where to go for free health checks, who handed out free school supplies, free school uniforms, and even free meals. My mom knew how and where to find stuff for free or for very cheap. She could not afford to do things on her own.Her favorite place to shop for our clothes was at the Salvation Army or at neighbors' sidewalk sales. I never complained. She did the best she could. † (Moline, 2014). I asked Stephanie why she liked to work with a ll of these organizations. She asked me, â€Å"Is there something else I should be doing? † I laughed and listened to her reasons. The reason that stood out the most was that she wanted teenagers to know that there are so many things to do in Pipelines besides joining a gang. She wants children to follow their dreams and not let their financial status get in the way.I know so many kids who think that they can't go to college because they can't afford it. I was one of them. It wasn't until started working with these organizations that I realized that there are so many opportunities out here for me. There are plenty of ways to make money for school and so many people willing to help. You just have to have an open mind and leave your fear of the unknown behind. I am now a student at the American Academy of Art, and I am majoring in Art Therapy for children. I want to give back to the community live in, and what better way than to help our youth through art, something which Pipel ines is well known for. Owe that if my mom had all these opportunities available to her when she was my age, she would have taken them. She tells me that the neighborhood is so different now, but different in a good way. † I noticed that Stephanie talks a lot about her mom during our interview. â€Å"You must be really proud of your mom, you mention her a lot,† I tell her. Stephanie responds, â€Å"My mom is my idol. She is a very strong woman who has done everything to help her family survive. It makes me sad that Pipelines was not such a great place for her to grow up because she was in a gang and she had to basically take care of resell most of the time.My grandparents were always working and my mom had nowhere to go after school. She would just hang out with her friends and get into trouble. Think it was the same for a lot of kids back then, that's why so many joined gangs. † I proceeded to ask, â€Å"So do you think Pipelines is a much better neighborhood n ow? † Stephanie response: â€Å"Heck yeah! † I thanked her for her time and let her know that the interview was over, but she continued to tell me some interesting things about Pipelines, so I stuck around and enjoyed our conversation for another hour or so (S. Moline, personal communication,April 2014). A. Interview with Chicago Public School teacher Esther Valediction 1 . Is Pipelines a good place to raise a family? Why or why not? I think that Pipelines is a good place to raise a family because there is so much diversity in this community and it is rich with art. There are many good schools, such as the one I work in. My biggest concern is the gang activity that goes on in Pipelines. It has diminished over the years but would like to see it completely gone. The gangs have taken many innocent lives and they have caused so much grief within the Hispanic community.We need to unite and show these gangs that hey do not run the streets of Pipelines. Our children need to kn ow that they are safe in the school and on the streets. We have a zero tolerance for gang activity in our school. The schools are amazing. I have been working for Walsh school for over 15 years, and I love my job. I have gotten to know so many families and I have seen many of my students grow up, graduate and become professionals. The community has accepted me as part of their own, even though I do not live here. I am here 5 days a week, sometimes 6.I love to work with the organizations in the neighborhood and come up with ideas that will help keep our children off the streets and interested in their education. I have visited other schools and they also have great programs for children and their families. 4. What types of services are offered in your school for families with children who have special needs? The principal of Walsh school, myself and other teachers, are part of a planning committee called the Pipelines Education Task Force. Our goal is to offer the best education poss ible to all of the children who reside in Pipelines, including those with special needs.Walsh school has excellent special education teachers. They work closely with the students and the families. They meet regularly with the school social worker to ensure that children with special needs and their families are receiving all the services they need. 5. Are there enough places where children can go after school while their programs, etc†¦? Yes, there are many places where a child can go after school. We have an after school tutoring program here at Walsh, where students from different universities volunteer to help students with homework.The park district has a great after school program which collaborates with Elevate (community Organization). Elevate offers art classes, photography classes and even has a youth circus. The kids love going to these places, I hear them talk about the events all the time. The children are very proud of the work they accomplish through these program s. Types of resources are available? Yes, the majority of these programs welcome children and their families. The park district has annual events for the entire family. They can exercise together, they can take art classes together, and some have family fun nights.Many of these places are open to the entire family, not just the children. Our school has movie nights, science night, a book fair, and health fairs for the entire family. 7. Is Pipelines an affordable place to live and raise a family? It depends where in Pipelines you choose to live. Some families have been in the same apartment/ home for many years. They do not leave for fear of not finding affordable housing elsewhere. There is a lot of new development in Pipelines as well. These include condos and single family homes which are on the higher price range.I think that if you do the research, you will find out that there is something in everyone's price range here. I like to do my grocery shopping in Pipelines. One of the things I really enjoy about Pipelines, are the street markets. Here, you can mind fresh fruit and vegetables, and also some household items at a very affordable price. I do not live here, but do like to shop here. Yes, in my years of working as a teacher, I have come to find out that there are many resources for families in Pipelines. There are so many organizations which assist families in need. These organizations can direct families to all the proper places.The residents of Pipelines are the best resource. I have seen families help each other and come together in the time of need. The residents of Pipelines truly support and help one another. Neighborhood? Think that the community is trying its best to get rid of the nag activity. The youth programs are doing what they can to keep children off the streets and involved in other activities. Pipelines is all about art. We have many local artists who work with the children of Pipelines. They offer art classes, mural painting, and scu lpture. The best part of this is that you can see the student's work displayed throughout Pipelines.Children are introduced to art at a very early age. Pipelines is all about art. You see families getting their babies ready for the festivities that happen in Pipelines. Many young children take part in and collaborate in making these festivities colorful and fun for everyone to 10. Do the local businesses contribute to the development of the neighborhood? Yes. Pipelines is a big tourist attraction now, with all the art galleries and the great restaurants. This brings in more money for the business and the neighborhood. Many of the businesses donate to good causes here in the neighborhood.Some of the bakeries donate bread and coffee to community gatherings, and some of the businesses donate toys during the holidays for children whose families can't afford to buy toys. Businesses have donated food for some of our school events. There is an organization called 18th street Development. K now for a fact that this organization works with all of the businesses in Pipelines to come up with ways to make it a better neighborhood for everyone who works and resides here. 11. What can the residents of Pipelines do, in order to make this a better neighborhood?The residents of Pipelines can continue to work together to improve their neighborhoods and keep them free from negative things. The families need to support each other and give each other security, this way everyone feels safe. The residents of Pipelines need to know who their government officials are and they need to approach them in time of need. That's what these government officials are here for, to help our spinsterhood. Parents and residents should be able to approach community leaders without being afraid. 12. Do you know who your community leaders are and what they've done recently to help your neighborhood?Yes, we work closely with the alderman Danny Solid, to see what can be done to better our schools and the community. The alderman just received funds to renovate the park. The children in the neighborhood are going to be very happy to get new playground equipment. 13. Tell me one organization that helps families. Why did you choose this organization? The Resurrection Project is my favorite organization in Pipelines cause it not only informs their residents about things that are going on in the community, it also helps its residents by educating them on home ownership, and it offers affordable housing to families who are struggling financially.The Resurrection Project has helped many families get out of foreclosures and they work close with government officials to protect the rights of the people living in Pipelines. 14. How long do you think you will work here and why? Think I will work here for as long as can because although do not live here, have grown to love Pipelines like it is my family. Love the school I work in. I love he students and their families. I enjoy taking walks with s tudents, and enjoy seeing the positive changes that are happening. Who knows, maybe one day I will also become a Pipelines resident. B.Summary Esther Valediction is a ad grade teacher for one of the Chicago public schools in Pipelines. She has been working for the same school for over 20 years. She started off as a teacher assistant in a pre-kindergarten classroom, which my oldest child was attending at the time. Esther came to Chicago with very little education, but a great desire to succeed. Esther says, â€Å"l have always known that wanted to be a teacher. When I came to the United States, I came with the desire to succeed and learn. Did research on many schools and found out about programs that would help me achieve my goal. As not gong to take no for an answer. † Esther is a very friendly and enthusiastic woman. I often see her talking and laughing with parents on school grounds or in social events. Yes, Esther attends many social events in our neighborhood. She is well known by parents and children in the community. She has seen my children grow up and she has been a great support for me. I chose to interview Esther because not only does she work with children, she encourages women to become the best that they can be so that they can provide for their families and become independent. This is what she did for me.She encouraged me to go back to school and get my degree in education. Often see Esther taking a stroll through our neighborhood on the weekends or at school events, sometimes bump into her at social gatherings. You can say that to many of the Pipelines residents, Esther is considered family. She has worked closely with many families and she has helped many single mothers find resources within the community. I recall the day met her, in front of me was a petite woman with a very strong accent. Often wondered how this tiny woman got a job as a teacher assistant and where she obtained her degree in education.She hardly spoke English. I was 1 6 years old at the time, a teen mom, and didn't really have an education myself. I just remember thinking, if this lady can get a job as a teacher, I can get a job as the school principal. I had no idea what challenges and how hard Esther had to work to earn her degree and the job she had. AAAS being judgmental, based on what I saw. I began volunteering in Ester's pre-k classroom, almost every day for many years. Since I had no education, I could not get a job, so spend most of my mime volunteering and helping In my child's classroom.When one of my children moved on to the next grade, the other once started school, and the cycle went on like this for about 6 years. This is where I learned most of my field experience working with preschool children. Here was, a teenage mom, spending all my time working for free in a Chicago public school. I was rewarded for my efforts and named top volunteer for months in a row. During this time, I had the privilege of getting to know more about Esth er. Soon found out how she moved to the United States with a degree in education from Mexico. Her degree was not valid in Illinois or any other state so she basically had to start from scratch.She could have chosen to work in something else, something that would not require a degree, but she chose to pursue her dreams of being a teacher. â€Å"One of my goals was to master the English language† says Esther with a smile on her face. Esther still has a strong accent, but when she speaks English, she does so very fluently. Better than, when first met her. When was comfortable enough to ask her about her personal background and education, she told me that there was a university in the neighborhood which offered the majority of college courses n Spanish and helped students of Spanish speaking background with SSL classes.I had no idea universities offered this type of help, and I had no clue that we had a university right in the neighborhood. This is when she started to encourage m e to go back to school. â€Å"l see how you work with children. You like this, and you are good at it. You are a natural and you need to go back to school,† she said to me one day. Laughed at her and said, â€Å"No way. I could never go back to school. I have kids to take care of and a husband to feed, and a home to keep clean†. Then she asked me, â€Å"But are you happy? My response: no. Was not happy.

The Scandal at Abu Ghrab essays

The Scandal at Abu Ghrab essays So how does the world feel about the prison abuse scandal at Abu Ghraib prison? The world has a lot of emotions: ashamed, reluctant to trust, and furious of the way the Iraqi prisoners were treated. They were tortured with electrical devices; several naked photos were taken of them with masks on their heads; and one prisoner was beaten almost to the brink of death. It has been the most talked about topic in the world recently has been the prison abuse scandal at Abu Ghraibs prison. The world has mixed emotions, and the topic has certainly put a damper on all Americans. The American people feel less than perfect right now. Everyone is pointing fingers, but no one wants to take the blame. The secretary of defense, Donald Rumsfeld, decided to take responsibility and resign, but the support for him was too strong to let that happen. Recently, Donald Rumsfeld admitted to holding a prisoner and not reporting it to the Red Cross to get assigned a number. This act breaks the Geneva Convention. Most Americans are ashamed that such a disgrace to our reputation could happen like this. American soldiers are in Iraqi trying to regain trust with the Iraqi people to savor the little respect thats left. A big gloomy cloud has formed over our armed forces, and it will take some time for the storm to clear. This scandal has not only affected the United States - but internationally too. N.A.T.O., the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, has decided to train the new Iraqi interim governments army and security forces, but reluctant to send any of their own troops to help support the new government. N.A.T.O. has not trusted the United States from the beginning. By providing training for the new army, its a way to keep the United States in one place - out of Iraqs new government. America has some allies, but the majority of countries dont want to have anything to do with the entire scandal. Our relati...

Mass Shootings and Related Issues of Race and Gender

Mass Shootings and Related Issues of Race and Gender â€Å"Sick,† â€Å"twisted,† â€Å"disturbed,† â€Å"psychotic,† â€Å"mentally ill,† â€Å"psychopath,† â€Å"acted alone.† These words  are familiar to anyone who pays attention to news accounts of mass shootings carried out by white males over the last three decades. Trouble is, none of these guys- Eliot Rodger, Adam Lanza, James Holmes, Jared Loughner, Anders Breivik in Norway, among others- really acted alone. While news accounts typically frame mass shootings by white males as the work of  deranged individuals, the actions of these  men and boys are expressive of widely held patriarchal and white supremacist beliefs. They are the manifestation of  a sick society. The  shooters who left digital trails have made it clear that their actions were prompted by their perceived loss of power and status in society. They felt slighted by women who do not obey them and their desires, by people of color and queer folks who have fought for, earned, and defended their civil rights, and by a society that doesn’t afford them the respect and place they believe they deserve by accident of their race and gender. They are the product of a changed and ever-changing social context in which historic forms of power and domination are being slowly but loudly destabilized, and of a society that socializes them to believe that this is wrong, and that they deserve to be in positions of power. Demographic Shifts in the U.S. and Anomie Among White Men​ Writing in 1897, sociologist Émile Durkheim popularized a theoretical concept that can be  usefully applied to understanding how this perceived problem of individuals is actually a social problem. Anomie, Durkheim explained, is a condition that results when the values and expectations of an individual do not match those that predominate in society. When an individual experiences anomie, they feel disconnected from their society; they feel destabilized. Anomie, per Durkheim, is a state of social derangement. Applying the theory of anomie to the phenomenon of white male shooters throws into relief the conditions of social derangement experienced by boys and men who take such action. White males, especially those with economic privilege relative to others, have historically lived at the top of the power hierarchy in the United States. They hold power in terms of their gender, their race, sometimes their class, and often, their sexuality. But, in today’s social context in which patriarchy, heteronormativity, white supremacy, and economic power have been destabilized by various social movements, legislation, and paradigm shifts in popular consciousness, their power over others is waning. With it, so too is their historically unjustly inflated social status. The Violent Death Grip of Patriarchy and White Supremacy This is not to say that patriarchy, heteronormativity, white supremacy, and economic control by white men are things of the past. These forms of domination live today in a wide variety of attitudes, values, beliefs, and practices. The actions of white male shooters make it fatally clear that the ideologies that undergird these forms of oppression are not only alive, but thriving today. They are expressed in their most overt and terrifying forms in the Youtube videos, chat logs, conversations, and manifestos of Anders Breivik, Elliot Rodger, and Jared Loughner, among others. They were expressed with violence and hatred in a rash of hate crimes against women, people of color, LGBT people, and immigrants following the 2016 presidential election. In this social context of anomie, shooting others is a desperate attempt to reclaim norms lost. It is an assertion of power that has been destabilized by the changing nature of society, its norms, and its values. Yet, the actions of white male shooters are couched within the larger social problem of a troubled masculinity that transcends race. Viewed through a wider lens, the connections between shootings perpetrated by white males and other forms of violent masculine expression, like street harassment, gendered and sexualized violence, hate crimes, gang violence, and white separatist and nationalist movements become clear. Society Needs Masculinity Rooted in Respect and Care for Others A social problem like this requires a social solution. Background checks and reforms to gun laws might reduce gun violence, but they will not stop other forms of violence that stem from a social sickness. Alleviating the social sickness of racism, and the gendered and heterosexist norms of patriarchy  is work that must be done collectively by all of us. We, as a society, must reconfigure what masculinity means, and cast off the dangerous values and expectations that we socialize boys to hold and express in their behavior. Curing this social sickness requires a new masculinity detached from notions of superiority, dominance, control, and compliance of others. It requires what the writers at Rad Dad advocate for in their call for a Feminist Fathers’ Day: a masculinity premised on respect and care for others.