Growing role of Shale Gas

Growing role of Shale Gas Introduction Background Adequate, affordable and reliable supplies of energy are essential for social-economic development of any nation. Global energy demand has been rising consistently. High demand for energy in the recent past has led to general increase in global oil prices. Frequent energy crises in the recent decades have motivated innovation in energy sector.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Growing role of Shale Gas specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Most recent research studies in energy are oriented towards developing alternative source of energy to supplement or replace fossil fuel. National and international consumption of fossil fuels are anticipated to rise over nest several years. The increase in consumption is however expected to be slower that in the recent years. Projected increase in fossil fuel consumption in the U.S is, among other factors, as result of anticipated increases growth domestic unconve ntional gas supplies (Haines, 2006, par 7). According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA) Annual Energy Outlook 2009, there is high anticipation of increase production of oil, coal and natural gas in the country (Ziff, 2009, par 2). Increased production of shale gas is expected to bring high impact in energy mix not only in the United States but also in other parts of the world. The report addresses effect of increasing production and consumption of Share gas in the country. It focuses on technological impact, commercial consideration, and implication of use of Shale gas to conventional gas. Unconventional natural gas is at the top in national energy discussion. The increasing importance of unconventional natural gas on national energy has led to significant impact on the country’s energy. The significance of unconventional natural gas is not felt only in the U.S but also in other parts of the world such as Australia, Canada, China and some countries in Europe (For tson, 2009, par 15). Debate on conventional natural gas is relatively new. In 2000, unconventional natural gas contributed less than 1% of the countries gas consumption. The impact of the unconventional natural gas was not felt until about 2007-2008, but reached its peak in the second half of 2009. Currently, unconventional natural gas is considered as one of the important innovations in energy sector and one that has high potential energy supply in the future. Shale gas leads as the unconventional natural gas that has significant impact on national and global energy (New Standard Energy, 2010, par 5). It is natural gas derived from Shale. Shale is natural gas potential rock made up of mud that is composed various clay minerals and other minerals.Advertising Looking for essay on environmental studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Shale gas has developed significantly as source of energy in the country in the recen t years. Due to its scale, shale gas is considered as one of the sources of energy that need assessment for development. With development in technology for developing Shale gas, the unconventional natural gas is considered to lead to a paradigm shift in national and global energy in the future. The figure below shows natural gas production in United States: Source: Natural Gas Production By source. Available at (all-llc.com/publicdownloads/ALLShaleOverviewFINAL.pdf ) Unconventional natural gas, particularly shale gas has led to a revolution in energy sector. The impact of shale gas is already being felt in the US and globally. The unconventional natural has led to a transformation in supply and price forecast for natural gas. It has also led to significance on competition among various options for energy. Today Shale gas contribute to about 20% of gas used in United states, a rise from about 1% 2000 (Kuuskraa, 2007, par 3). It is anticipated that Shale gas and other unconventional natural gases will continue to grow contributing to about half of gases used in the country by 2035. Such an increase will have high impact on energy sector in the country. For instance, unconventional natural gases contributing 50% of national consumption enable electric power industry to increase is natural gas consumption to about 35 Billion cubic billion per day, up from 19 Bcf currently. Abundant resource for natural gas will have effect o various sectors of the economy. It will have significant influence on choice for power generating technologies.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Growing role of Shale Gas specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Considering the consistent growth in demand for electricity and pressure to replace some of the current plants, shale gas and other unconventional natural gas will contribute highly on the overall energy mix (Whitney, Behrens, Clover and Hederman, 2010, p. 108). Shift to uncon ventional natural gas will affect the relative cost of handling greenhouse gas emissions. The abundant supply of Shale gas could also have effect on transportation fuels. It could lead to focus on natural gas vehicle while the gas could be used to run power stations that could be used for recharging batteries for electric vehicle. Revolution in energy sector brought by unconventional natural gas has influenced consumption of natural gas. It has lowered price outlook for natural gas, gas as a source of energy to be more competitive. The Abundance in supply for the unconventional natural gas has boosted confidence on security of supply for natural gas (Jolly, 2008, par 7). This is a great shift from high natural gas insecurity experiences some few years ago. As gas consumption is expected to raise, greenhouse regulation with become more of a reality than a possibility. Although there is high expectation for impact of Shale gas and other unconventional natural gas, the limit is subject to relative economies of fuels. Other factors that are expected to affect shale gas consumption include structure of the transport system, configuration for power systems, and public policies such as Greenhouse gas emission control. Figure shows outlook for unconventional Natural gas Source: United States Unconventional Natural Gas Outlook. Available at: (all-llc.com/publicdownloads/ALLShaleOverviewFINAL.pdf )Advertising Looking for essay on environmental studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Technology analysis Although unconventional natural gases are widely available, they were ignored in preference of conventional natural gas. Shale gas deposits in particular were ignored by producers as they sought deposits with higher concentration. The producers mainly preferred high concentration reserves in order to optimize returns from their heavy investments. Although Shale gas mining has been there for a long time, it was not considered a viable source of sustainable natural gas (Westervelt, 2010, par 5). It is through technological improvement in Shale gas mining that is has become a competitive source of natural gas. Cost effectiveness of modern drilling, well simulation and conversion has turned Shale gas to potential source of natural gas. The significance of new Shale gas mining technology is evident in increase in Shale gas in the market thus reducing import for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in the country and its demand globally. Shale gas production is significantly di fferent from production in conventional petroleum reservoirs. Petroleum reservoirs mainly rely on pressure oil-dissolved gas and gas-cap during early stages of development. Mining also depends on upward hydraulic pressure from water trapping the reservoir. The production is therefore easier and cost effective due to the nature of the reservoirs. This method of production where water drives and pressure of natural gas is referred to as conventional drive (Curtis, 2002, p. 37). When conventional drive drops due to reduction reservoir’s production, pumping is required in order to bring the petroleum to the surface. Artificial lift, as the process is referred, leads to increase in production cost. As a reaction to cost effectiveness of artificial lift, drilling companied started to induce hydraulic pressure. The technology helped to increase a well’s production, effectiveness, and reduce cost. Today, advancement in drilling technology has led to a shift from reliance of ve rtical drilling to horizontal directed to reservoir formation (Mccallum and Womack, 2010, par 13). Horizontal drilling has not only led to high production but also allows drilling of more than one well from a single well pad. This not only helps in cutting cost but also reduce environmental effect (Sumi, 2008, par 4). Hydraulic fracturing and directional drilling has played a significant on Shale gas production; making it a major competitor to conventional natural gas. Shale gas production has to consider some factors for it to be successful. The most important factor to be considered in Shale gas extraction is the level of gas in Shale gas reservoirs. Since Shale has low permeability, commercial production of Shale gas requires fracturing in order to produce permeability. Although natural fractures are sometimes available, they cannot be able to support commercial production making artificial fracturing to be necessary (Ghosh and Prelas, 2009, p. 73). Modern technology in hydraulic fracturing has enabled Shale gas extraction to be commercially viable leading to the current boom. Most of the current Shale gas wells are horizontal. Horizontal drilling and need for hydraulic fracturing tend to make cost for Shale gas production to be higher that in conventional wells. Horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing are very important to Shale gas production. Horizontal drilling allows production of Shale gas from a wide geographic area without having to sink many vertical wells. Through the technology, gas production can be done below surrounding farms, schools, airports and other natural and man made features, without interference. Hydraulic fracturing increases gas production making Shale gas production to be commercially viable. Commercial Consideration Until recently, Shale gas was not consideration for commercial use. Various factors in energy market such as price increase and instability, together with advancement in hydraulic technology has changed the situa tion. Today Shale gas makes up about 20% of natural gas consumption in the United States (Lashley and Hobbs, 2010, par 4). Other countries such as Australia, China and some European countries are considering Shale gas as substitute to natural gas. As unconventional natural gas, extraction of Shale gas is challenging. Difficulty in extracting Shale gas has been the major factor limiting production of Shale gas and other unconventional natural gas. Hydraulic fracturing required for extraction of the gas was expensive making cost of production to be extremely high. The high cost of production made produced Shale gas to be expensive than imported liquefied natural gas. Therefore, importation was preferred way of acquiring fuel gas. Horizontal drilling and advancement in hydraulic fracturing have reduced Shale gas production substantially making Shale gas as a major competitor to liquefied natural gas (Congressional Research Service, 2009, par 9). Cost effectiveness of the Shale gas prod uction has therefore made economically viable. The high rate of growth of Shale gas in the country is a major threat to conventional natural gas. Not only is Shale gas reservoirs in the country large but also the gas can be sold at competitive prices. Shale gas therefore has been able to emerge as potential source of energy for the future. The large reservoir for Shale gas and improving effectiveness of Shale gas production is having high impact in national and global natural gas market. The United States has been relying almost entirely on imported liquefied natural gas. Relying on importation meant that any effect in production in source countries has high implication to the United States. The US currently consumes about 21percent of global natural gas. This is a large portion from an individual country. Considering the US’s high consumption of natural gas, increase in Shale gas usage in the country will have high implication on global natural oil industry. Considering the countries high potential in Shale gas, the US might turn as an exporter of natural gas in the future (Durham, 2010, par 9). Currently, the US has shale gas potential capable in supplying the country with natural gas for the next a hundred years. The effect of Shale gas has already started to be witnessed. Before Shale gas revolution in 2009, world prices for natural gas were in constant fluctuations. High commercial production of shale gas has led to stabilization of the prices. Anticipated growth in Shale gas production in the country is anticipated to exert more pressure on liquefied natural gas. Other countries such as Australia and China are also taking moves to increase Shale gas production in the counties. The national and global increase in Shale gas production is likely to major effect on OPEC (Arthur, Langhus and Alleman, 2008, par 6). The high monopoly and control in natural gas is likely to change. Russia is the country that will be affected most by the changes. Russia an d other oil producing and exporting countries will have implement major changes in the natural gas exportation in order to remain competitive. Shale gas has competitive advantage over conventional natural gas. The gas has less carbon content relative to conventional natural gas. As urge environmentally friendly fuel alternative continues, Shale gas will be preferred over conventional natural gas. Shale gas is not only environmentally friendly is considered to commercially superior to conventional natural gas. Exploration for Shale gas is relatively cheap as compared to natural gas. New production technologies have lowered the cost of producing Shale gas substantially making it highly competitive. In addition, Shale gas reservoirs are easily available as compared to natural gas. Shale Gas versus Conventional Gas Horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing has made Shale gas to be a boom in natural gas market. Analysis is HIS CERA has found Shale gas resource base of about 2,000 Tcf. It is also estimated that additional 3,000 Tcf is going to be discovered in the near future. Shale gas potential in other countries is also high (Lewis and Lawler, 2010, par 8). For instance, in Canada Shale gas resources is estimated to be more than 500 Tcf. The high potential in Shale gas has major impact on conventional gas. Shale gas is a substitute to conventional natural gas. This mean that increased demand for Shale gas has negative impact on demand for conventional natural gas. In United States, Shale gas consumption has risen to about 20 percent up from about 1% in 2000. The effect of this increase is already being felt in natural gas market. This has led to stability in prices for natural gases while outlook for future prices indicate price fall. Many countries are considering Shale gas. Other countries, which have shown strong interest on Shale gas production, include Australia, China, Canada and some European countries such as Poland. Full-blown production of Shale gas will have severe effect on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). Shale gas might replace LNG as the dominant natural gas. Low cost of Shale gas production enabled by new production technology has made Shale gases a potential source of natural gas. Worldwide production of Shale gas will exert competition on LNG leading to drop in prices. The increased Shale gas production will have negative effects of LNG producing countries such as Russia. The countries may loose revenue due to drop in natural gas export and reduction in prices. Shale Gas Development in USA United States among the countries that have shown great interest in Shale gas production. Shale gas is considered a solution to natural gas problems in the country. Although Shale gas extraction started in early 1820s in Fredonia, New York, it is not until recently that is has gained popularity as a potential source for natural gas (U.S. Department of Energy, 2009, par 5). The country has high reserve for Shale gas. Currently Barnett Shal e is the largest reservoir for Shale gas and the most active. Other potential Shale producing areas are also being explored. For instance, there has been exploration in West Texas. The country’s Share gas resources are estimated to be about 600 Tcf, a high potential for natural gas supplier (Paltsev, Jacoby, Ejaz, Morris and Kragha, 2010, par 9). Investments in Shale gas has increased with new and more effective share gas producing technologies. In total, the country has about 35,000 producing Shale-gas wells. Many companies have shown interest in Shale gas. Among the major investors in this area, include Royal Dutch Shell, Contango Oil Co., Chesapeake Energy Corp., Denbury Resource Inc., Devon Energy Corp., Noble Energy Corp. and Murphy Oil Corp (US Energy Information Administration, 2008, par 11). Investment in Shale gas is continuing to attract more investors mainly because high profitability prospect. Currently US Shale gas consumption is about 20% of natural gas consumed in the country. The consumption is estimated to continue to rise as more investments are made in the area. It is anticipated that about half of the country’s natural gas will be produced locally from Shale gas by around 2030. The high investment in Shale gas might may turn the US as a major exporter in natural gas in the future. This will be a major contrast of the current situation where the US consumes about 21% of world’s natural gas, mainly imported. Conclusion Source of energy is very crucial for development of any country. Recent energy crises have demonstrated the importance of sustainable source of energy. Many research studies in energy sector have focused of on coming up with alternative source of energy to ensure stability in energy supply. Shale gas provides one of the most viable alternatives to conventional natural gas. Technological advancement and high investment in Shale gas has made it one of the potential supplies for natural gas. In United State, S hale gas is estimated to contribute about 50% of the country’s natural gas consumption. The impact of Shale gas is expected to be felt in global natural gas production. Reference List Arthur, D., Langhus, B. and Alleman, D. 2008. An overview of modern shale gas development in the United States. Available [online] at all-llc.com/publicdownloads/ALLShaleOverviewFINAL.pdf Congressional Research Service. 2009. Unconventional Gas Shales: Development, Technology, and Policy Issues. Available [online] at http://assets.opencrs.com/rpts/R40894_20091030.pdf Curtis, J. 2002. Unconventional Petroleum System. American Association of Petroleum Geologists Vol. 86 No. 11, pp 1921-1938. Durham, L. 2010. Prices, Technology Make Shales Hot. Available [online] at aapg.org/explorer/2008/07jul/shales.cfm Fortson, D. 2009. Shale gas blasts open world energy market. Available [online] at http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/natural_resources/article6898015.ece Ghosh, T . and Prelas, M. 2009. Energy Resources and Systems: Fundamentals and non-renewable resources. New York: Springer. Haines, L.2006. Shale Gas Available [online] at oilandgasinvestor.com/pdf/ShaleGas.pdf Jolly, D. 2008. Europe starting search for shale gas. The New York Times. Available [online] at nytimes.com/2008/08/22/business/worldbusiness/22iht-eurogas.4.15555534.html?_r=1 Kuuskraa, V. 2007. A Decade of Progress in Unconventional Gas. Available [online] at adv-res.com/pdf/ARI%20OGJ%201%20Unconventional%20Gas%20Progress%207_24_07.pdf Lashley, M., and Hobbs, D. 2010. Fueling North America’s Energy Future. The Wall Street Journal. Available [online] at http://www2.cera.com/ceraweek2010/NAm2010-03-10.pdf Lewis, B., and Lawler, A. 2010. Analysis: Oil major model challenged by shift to gas. Available [online] at http://in.reuters.com/article/idINIndia-48557420100517 Mccallum, k., and Womack, J. 2010. Mitsui Bets on U. S. Shale-Gas Project. Available [online] at http://online .wsj.com/article/NA_WSJ_PUB:SB10001424052748704804204575069542803027352.html New Standard Energy. 2010. What is Shale gas? Available [online] at newstandard.com.au/index.php?option=com_contentview=articleid=78Itemid=93 Paltsev, S., Jacoby, H., Ejaz, Q. Morris, J., and Kragha, O. 2010. The Future of U.S. Natural Gas Production, Use, and Trade. Available [online] at https://www.gtap.agecon.purdue.edu/resources/download/5093.pdf Sumi, L. 2008. Shale Gas: Focus on the Marcellus Shale. Available [online] at earthworksaction.org/pubs/OGAPMarcellusShaleReport-6-12-08.pdf U.S. Department of Energy. 2009. Modern shakes Gas Development in The United State: A Primer. Available [online] at netl.doe.gov/technologies/oil-gas/publications/EPreports/Shale_Gas_Primer_2009.pdf US Energy Information Administration. 2008. Top 100 oil and gas fields. Available [online] at eia.doe.gov/pub/oil_gas/natural_gas/data_publications/crude_oil_natural_gas_reserves/current/pdf/top100fields.pdf Westervelt, A . 2010. Shale Gas Booming Globally, Despite Chemical Dangers. Available [online] at http://solveclimate.com/blog/20100809/shale-gas-booming-globally-despite-chemical-dangers Whitney, G. Behrens, C., Clover, C. and Hederman, W. 2010. Energy: Natural Gas: The Production and Use of Natural Gas, Natural Gas Imports and Exports, Epact Project, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Import Terminals and Infrastructure Security. New York: The Capitol Net Inc. Ziff, P. 2009. Shale Gas Outlook to 2020. Available [online] at ziffenergy.com/download/pressrelease/PR20090408-02.pdf

What is the ACT A Complete Explanation of the Test

What is the ACT A Complete Explanation of the Test SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips If you’ve found this article, you’ve probably vaguely heard of the ACT (and if you hadn’t before, well, you have now!). Maybe you have some idea that it has something to do with college, but you’re still pretty confused about what exactly it is. I’m here to help! The ACT, like the SAT, is a standardized test used for college admissions. If you’re planning to apply to college in the US you’ll almost certainly have to take one of these tests (and you may need to even if you’re planning on going to school elsewhere). This post will take you through everything need to know about the ACT- from why students take it to what it covers to when you should plan to take it yourself. Why Do People Take the ACT? The ACT is a standardized test designed to show colleges how prepared you are for higher education by measuring your reading comprehension, knowledge of writing conventions, and computational skills and then comparing youwith the rest of the high schoolers who take it. It essentially serves as a nation-wide college admission test (though it's far from the only factor schools consider). Most four-year schools require applicants to submit either ACT or SAT scores (they don't distinguish between the two), which can then make up as much as 50% of the admission decision. A strong standardized test score is a key part of your application. There are also a lot of students who are required to take the ACT by their high school. A number ofstates use the ACT as a state-wide assessment test, so every junior at a public school takes the ACT. Which Schools Accept the ACT? There's a common misconception that some colleges only accept SAT scores and won't take ACT scores. This is not the case: all four-year colleges and universities in the US accept ACT scores, and the schoolsdon't distinguish between the two tests. You can takewhichever you prefer. However, there are a few schools, including George Washington University, Hampshire College, and California State University, that either don't require ACT or SAT scores or have flexible policies on standardized tests. If you're an international student looking to attend a U.S. school, you will need to take either the ACT or the SAT. If you're an American student planning to apply to international schools, you will probably still need to take one of these standardized tests, but it will depend on the school you're applying to and which country it's in. Two-year colleges and trade schools generally don't require applicants to take the ACT but will sometimes accept it in lieu of a placement test. MIT, one of the many colleges that requires an ACT score. What Does the ACT Cover? The ACT consists of four sections- English, Math, Reading, and Science- plus an optional writing test.With the exception of the writing section, the test is entirely multiple choice: the math questionshavefive answer choices and the others all have four. The chart quantifiesthe basic structure of the test (the sections are in the same order they appear on the test).For more details on what's actually on the ACT, you can follow the links to full breakdowns of each section. Section Questions Time English 75 questions 45 min Math 60 questions 60 min Reading 40 questions 35 min Science 40 questions 35 min Writing 1 prompt 40 min How Is the ACT Scored? ACT scores can feel arbitrary, so let's break down where that mysterious number between 1 and 36 actually comes from. For each section of the ACT, you'll get a raw score, which is the number of questions you get right. That is then converted into a scaled score between 1 and 36. The composite score is simply the average of your four section scores (the writing is left out because it's optional). In the US, the average score hovers around a 21, although there's some variance from year to year. Though it's easy to fixate on trying to get as high a score as possible, most student don't need a 36. Instead, you should determine what a good score is for the schools (and scholarships) you're planning to apply to. When Should You Take the ACT? When you take the ACT will depend on what kind of score you're looking for, when your application deadlines are, and whether you live in one of the states that require it. Generally speaking, however, the ideal time to take the ACT for the first time is thewinter of your junior year- when you’ve covered most of the material in school but still have time to take it again ifyou want to. We're just getting started! Time to make a plan. Everything You Need to Plan for the ACT Having read this post, you hopefully feel a bit more clear about what the ACT is. But the tricky part is still to come: preparing for the test. I've compiled a list of the key questions you should ask yourself as you begin to plan for college applications. Should I take the ACT or SAT? This question concerns a lot of students, but it's not as important as it seems, since most students don't see that much of a difference between their scores on the two tests. The New SATis especially similar to the ACT. If you'renot sure which test to take, you can use our fool-proof method to determine which test is better for you or try our quiz fordeciding between the new SAT vs. the ACT. Also keep in mind that if you'll be taking the ACT in school anyways, it will be simplerto stick with that test, since you may have some prep lessons in class and it will save you money on registration. What ACT score do I need to get into college? Your score goal will depend on which schools you want to apply to. Use this form to calculate your ideal ACT score. What's the best way for me to prepare for the ACT? As you prepare for the ACT, you'll need to decide whether you want to hire a tutor or study on your own. You may also want to consider an online program like PrepScholar! If you decide to study on your own, make sure you get the best book for your needs. Whatdo I need to know to prepare for the ACT? There are three key pieces to preparing for the ACT: understanding how the test works, reviewing the material, and practicing. To get a sense of how to think effectively about the ACT, download our guide to the 5 strategies that you must use. For specifics on content and question types, try our complete guides to each section of the test: English, math, reading, and science. You can find the best ACT practice tests here and an in depth guide on how to use them here. Disappointed with your ACT scores? Want to improve your ACT score by 4+ points? Download our free guide to the top 5 strategies you need in your prep to improve your ACT score dramatically.

Pluralist Model and the Instrumentalist Model Essay

Pluralist Model and the Instrumentalist Model - Essay Example Jerry Kloby in his book Inequality, Power, and Development, he discusses two theories to explain the modern world, the pluralist and the instrumentalist model, the pluralist model indicates that power in the society is not held by a few people while the instrumentalist model indicates that power is held by only a few people and therefore high levels of inequality. This model focuses on the relationships that exist between the state and society, it focuses on the various important ways in which citizens control their leaders and also shape public policies. Citizens therefore are involved in public policy making, to this model power is possessed by the society as a whole, power is considered as a resource in society in attainment of goals. This model argues that bureaucrats, capitalist and political leaders are unified into a single group by their common origin, lifestyles and values, public policies are made through the networks that exist between these groups. According to this model power in the society is only held by a few individuals who use it to further their own interests, therefore public policies are made by the ones who have institutional, political and economic power. In the society we live it is true that power is only held by a few people, they will shape the societies policies for their own interest and not the interest of the people. The instrumental

Shared Truths Among Law and Religions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Shared Truths Among Law and Religions - Essay Example On the basis of this perspective, ideas and considerations that Christians, Buddhists, and atheists might commonly accept include imposition of rules and regulations to deter discrimination on the basis of caste, gender, color, or origin; deterrence of fraud; deterrence of lies; deterrence of violence and bullying; deterrence of rape; and imposition of all such rules that are directed at the well-being of the society at large. Evidence of this can be witnessed in that all societies have a system of law and order that is directed at the promotion of justice and deterrence of injustice and violence, whether that is a predominantly Christian society like America, a predominantly Buddhist society like Burma, or a predominantly atheist society like Japan. People of all religions want legal freedom to pray in their religious ways; â€Å"Because the Establishment Clause does not apply to purely private speech, students enjoy the right to read their Bibles or other scriptures, say grace bef ore meals, pray before tests, and discuss religion with other willing student listeners† (â€Å"Joint Statement†). The laws and government supported by the shared ideas and considerations of Christians, Buddhists, and atheists are such that allows their respective followers to complete freedom to practice their religions without conflict. Such a governmental setup has to be democratic and considerate of the individualistic needs and desires of the people following different religions. â€Å"The word democracy means only that the people rule. Other than, perhaps, requiring freedom of speech and equal access to the ballot, indispensable requirements of self-rule, the notion of democracy sets no limits on what the people may do in their sovereign capacity† (Stern). Such a system of law and government cannot, in any way, be biased toward people of a certain religion.

Conceptual Framework Essay Example for Free

Conceptual Framework Essay The crossing of genders has been a hurdle that society has stumbled to accept since the beginning of time. Early hypotheses about the so-called cause of homosexuality originated from the psychodynamic perspective that men became gay because of a dysfunctional family system in which they were emotionally enmeshed with their mothers and had a distant relationship with their father. As a result, the thought of changing one’s sex immediately becomes a staple of criticism, despite the psychological effect it could have on the individual. Yet, Imani, a man who lives life as a woman, successfully copes with work, intimate relationships, family and peer relationships, and has developed a positive assessment of self. Imani is a resilient, creative, and resourceful individual, who has overcome societal myths that a transgender cannot function normally in society. Thus, this essay will attempt to outline Imani’s life journey and compare it to Hutchinson’s (2008) common risk and protective factors, while revealing how she copes with personal and professional relationships according to Werner and Smith (2001) ratings of the quality of adult adaptation and what she attributes her success. Six Criteria of Coping Understanding and coping with cultural differences becomes crucial when attempting to come out about gender or sexual identity. Social constructionist perspective suggests that â€Å"sexual orientation unfolds within a context of environmental or social influences† (Morrow Messinger, 2006, pp. 61). Growing up poverty stricken, Imani learned to cope at an early age. The eldest of six, Imani grew up without a positive male role model and poor, while dealing with sexual desires for the same sex. â€Å"I use to pretend like I was attracted to girls because that was the normal thing, but since I was twelve, I had sexual desires for other boys† (Imani, personal communication, February 6 2009). Therefore, recognizing her gender identity at an early age, but able to cope with the stigmas of society involved Imani’s ability to reconcile competing demands from the dominant society. In addition, feelings for the opposite sex thwarted Imani from forming peer groups at an early stage in her life. â€Å"Many gay men do not accomplish normal development tasks of adolescence, such as forming a peer group†¦therefore, when experiencing some of the emotionality of teenagers as adults in their twenties or older, there is dissonance between chronological age and developmental tasks they may be struggling with† (Mallon, 2008, pp. 150). Normally, this would have had an unfavorable effect, but, it had a favorable effect on Imani’s life. For example, Imani is a leader in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. She mentors young individuals that are dealing with gender identity issues. Imani has also been in a long term intimate relationship for fifteen years; which induces her happiness. â€Å"When I was growing up, being gay was taboo, but, today you can speak out about who you are and feel comfortable, so I’m taking full advantage of every opportunity and helping others who may feel isolated as well† (Imani, personal communication, February 6, 2009). Even in analyzing her relationship with her siblings, Imani is respected and accepted wholeheartedly by her entire family. This could be attributed to two major reasons. Firstly, Imani was a defiant child, but, she also helped rear her brothers and sisters, which established a sense of respect from them early on. She also was defiant and never conformed to the norm when instructed to complete a task. For example, if her mother instructed her to go right, she would go left. Secondly, unlike people in a cohort group born in the eighties, which are more adept to come out sooner rather than later, Imani made her decision to transform at age thirty-eight. â€Å"Coming out is a critical issue in the process of identifying, some people do not go through this process early in life† (Kane-DeMaios Bullough, 2006, pp. 10). For this reason, when Imani revealed her decision to become a woman, she perhaps displayed a defiant attitude, not to mention that her mother was supportive of her decision, likely instilled strength, support and understanding from her siblings as well. As a result, Imani shares a strong and supportive bond with her brother and sisters. Although Imani has been resilient in gaining acceptance from peers and family, her professional success is equally astonishing. Imani’s was employed with Phillip Morris, Inc, when she decided to transform. However, her employers were not accepting of her identity change, so, they increased her workload and refused to give her a stable schedule. To combat this deliberate injustice, she filed a grievance, several weeks later she was laid off. Werner and Smith (2001) noted that one of the main qualities of adult adaptation is work. â€Å"The individual is employed and satisfied with work† (pp. 36). â€Å"My former job was horrible at accepting me for who I was, so I decided to make a move and find employment elsewhere; where the people would make me feel comfortable and I would enjoy what I was doing. (Imani, personal communication, February 6, 2009). Imani is now gainfully employed as a supervisor with a prominent Medicaid service provider. Imani states, â€Å"There’s good energy at work. My colleagues respect me to the upmost and I enjoy helping clients. † Clearly, Imani’s ability to get past the ridicule of a former employee and successfully find employment without becoming discouraged about her gender identity is another emphasis of her resiliency. However, Imani contributes her success to having the courage to live as a transgender to education. Enrolling in VCU’s fine art program during the 70’s broadened my mindset about the world around me and myself, which has helped me become who I am today† (Imani, personal communication, February 6, 2009). Without question, academia can enhance an individual’s perception about the world around them, but, â€Å"the concept of accommodation is an important one in understanding the adaptation of transgender people† (American, 2009,  ¶ 3). Consequently, with Imani having the accommodation of a close knit, supportive family and long term partner has definitely added to her success. Therefore, it is should be pointed out that some risk and protective factors are inherent in the nature of resilient people. Risk and Protective Factors Werner and Smith (2001) noted that even in infancy there was something different about the high-risk children who never developed serious problems. They were active, affectionate, good-natured infants, alert and autonomous toddlers. One protective factor associated with Imani’s success was her development of advanced self help skills, which she acquired early in her life course. For instance, Imani learned early to cope with gender identity issues, despite being reared during a time when homosexuality and cross dressing were deemed taboo. In addition, coping with putting her childhood on hold while helping her mother take care of her siblings, Imani developed an identity of a leader. Evidently, this created strength of mind, which more than likely had an influence on the way Imani set out to accomplish goals or agendas. People who are heterosexual in orientation do not have to ponder on how to develop a heterosexual identity. In contrast, transgender people have as their task the â€Å"development of an identity that runs counter to the heterocentric culture in which they are socialized. † They must â€Å"come to terms with having a sexual orientation that is socially ridiculed, and they must formulate a sense of identity as a transgender person† (Morrow Messinger 2006, pp. 85). Although Imani’s early development of advanced self-help skills has played a pivotal role in her success during her life course, she still faced the risk factor of growing up in poverty. Coincidentally, this did not have a negative effect on her schooling or personal accomplishments. Hutchison (2008) suggest, â€Å" poverty alone is much less of a risk than extended poverty. Imani’s life serves as a perfect example for this suggestion. For example, Imani did not continue the family trend of living in poverty. Determined to set the pace for the rest f her siblings, she rose above the line of poverty in her early twenties. She graduated from high school and successfully obtained a college degree. One could raise the question, if her role as the older sibling, which induced a sense of responsibility, while trying to understand her identity issues, kept her from being vulnerable to the risk of falling off track, because she was preoccupied with the task of taking care of her brother and sisters, rather than the poverty situation in front of her. Undoubtedly, it is apparent that Imani’s deprivations growing up did not lead to a trajectory of failure. Hutchison (2008) points out that positive impact of historical events can reverse disadvantages in a person’s life trajectories. Therefore, being torn between the role of patriarch and matriarch at an early age, clearly, had a positive effect on Imani’s life. Conclusively, Imani’s life has been filled with many extenuating effects of internal oppression at an early age, which she was able to overcome at a later stage in her life cycle. The major turning point in her life was enrolling in college; which has made her a resilient, creative, and resourceful individual who possess much strength. Yet, born during a time when social reform was at its peak, Imani serves as a perfect example of resiliency, success and normalcy.

australias wage determination system Essay -- essays research papers

Australia has gone from a highly centralized wage determination system to a mainly decentralized one. There has been a move away from accords and awards to enterprise bargaining, through the 96 Workplace Relations Act. Recent policies include changes to unfair dismissal claims and the 2005 workplace reforms package. Throughout the 20th century, Australia has maintained a system of tribunals to make decisions about wage and non wage outcomes and to help resolve industrial disputes. Institutional forces affect the operation of the free market in order to improve labour market outcomes, such as guaranteeing minimum wages and conditions. The four institutional forces that affect labour markets are Governments, Trade Unions, Employer associations and Industrial Relations tribunal. Trade unions represent groups of workers on a collective basis. The most important trade union is the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU), which is the peak union body to which most unions are affiliated. Trade unions membership has declined substantially from the 1970à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s with an average membership of 55% to just 23% in 2003. This is caused by the increase in casual and part time employment, growth in industries with low union membership such as retail and the decentralization of wage determination. Employer associations represent business groups in similar industries in industrial relations matters. They seek wage moderation to maintain profitability. The head employer association is the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. At the federal level is the independently run Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC). They establish and maintain the fair minimum rates of pay and conditions (award safety net system) for all workers. Award wage increases are determined by the AIRC annually after hearing submissions from the government, ACTU and unions. They apply the no disadvantage test to CAà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s and AWAà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s to make sure workers are better off than the underpinning award. They also help settle industrial disputes through conciliation and arbitration. Move Away from centralized The Accords (1983-1995), were a social contract negotiated between the Federal Government and ACTU on minimum wages and specified working conditions for a number of occupations under Federal awards. This centralised wage system reduced the levels of inflation, industrial disputation and un... ...ver the wage determination role of the Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC). It is meant to boost productivity by increasing workplace flexibility and placing new constraints on unions. The change is aimed at having workers covered by individual employment agreements rather than collective awards. Its creation is a big win for employer groups, who have campaigned for decades to strip back the powers of the industrial relations umpire to determine workplace arrangements. However, many believe it will lead to a reduction in pay and conditions. New legislation will also strip back minimum employment conditions. The current 20 "allowable matters" will be cut to about 16. The wage determination system has moved from centralised determination through National Wage Cases towardst an enterprise bargaining framework. Safety nets are there mainly for low paid workers who are unable to secure wage increases under enterprise bargaining. There has been sustained moderate wage increases, low inflation, strong productivity growth and employment growth. This system appears to generate the best of both enterprise agreements and centralised wage determination.

We Can Do It!

Riveter Looking at this war poster as a whole looks very normal to many viewers (it contains a statement which states â€Å"We Can Do It! † in white letters with a blue background). It also contains two main colors; blue and yellow. Rosie the riveter is the main person in the ad, along with the main subject. She is wearing a blue collar shirt, an orange and white hair scarf and a collar button. At the bottom of the ad is a large W letter underlined which stands for women's rights ( women's right logo is right underneath the letter W).Along with the letter is a war production committee logo in the right orner. With this statement in the ad and Rosie the riveter as the main subject a viewer can tell that the poster was used in the 1940's. During this time, many male workers were off fighting in the war, causing females to begin working in the factories. Soon after males returned home they desired females to return to their home making Jobs. Enjoying the new freedom, females were very doubtful about returning to house making Jobs. This ad explains how color portrays masculinity, how the statement â€Å"We Can Do It! in this ad expresses the emotions, struggles and goals of females during the war time and Rosie the riveter showing her muscles, ymbolizes power. The background of this ad uses colors to portray deeper meanings to its viewers. The naw blue color behind the statement â€Å"We Can Do It! † explains the false statement that it takes masculinity to work in factories. For many years males were the only workers working in factories, so custom to tradition it was abnormal to think that females had the ability to work in factories.Leading to the letters â€Å"We Can Do It† to be written in white bold letters on top of the naw blue. The white bold letters are symbolizing the purity in the work force, females in factories. Females at his time wanted to work in factories and not return to the house making Jobs. Another color seen throughout this ad is bright yellow. The main color is yellow; yellow symbolizes a storm. The storm for females at this time was being stuck, stuck in a position on a house maker, a mother and a wife. Females going to work in factories and saying â€Å"We Can Do It! was busting through the typical role of a house maker and allowed females to pass through the storm of being stuck. The statement â€Å"We Can Do It! † in this ad expresses the emotions, struggles and goals of females during the war time. Women at this time were struggling to come out of the typical female role as a house maker and show that as females they could work Just as hard as males. Struggling to overcome traditional stereotypes brought out many emotions in females. With all these emotions females started to make goals and statements around the world.In this ad right under the words â€Å"We Can Do It! † Rosie the riveter has a very serious and emotional look on her face. Having a serious look on her face is stating that females were done feeling inferior and unimportant to society, tired of being doubted by the males of th e world. Along with her serious look, Rosie the iveter was wearing make-up and a hair bandana. The hair bandana and make-up are displaying that with all the statements about working Just as hard as males and tired of feeling inferior, females can still be females.Rosie the riveter is showing her muscle in this ad to symbolize power. Half of her sleeve is rolled up to symbolize what nas already started and what is yet to come, temale power. Following ner arm down to her hand, she shows a closed fist. Her fist displays two things; fghting action towards those who will try to stand in her way and a closed mind to her opinion as if no one can tell her what she is doing is wrong. Along with showing her muscles and fist, she also has a female power button on her collar.This button shows strength in numbers since she's visually saying that it takes more than one person to c hange the image of females and roles they play. In addition to the button, Rosie has a blue collar shirt verse a white collar shirt. The blue collar shirt stands for manual labor working. Manual labor working is what females wanted at this time, not to work as a major or a white collar worker. As we can see with posters like this, symbolism is shown throughout images all around. To fully understand ads and posters ometimes you have to dig a little deeper for true meanings.Rosie the riveter helps explain the message females wanted to convey at this time, to work in factories along with males. This poster helps explain not only what it says, â€Å"We Can Do It† but also the struggle, goals and emotions that females had during this time. With showing emotions, struggles and goals, this ad also visual explains the power females had. Knowing the struggle females had during the war time, makes me appreciate being a female even more. Work Cited â€Å"Rosie the Riveter. † 2011 .. Online Image. Women Working During World War 2. Web. 23 Oct

Han Dynasty and China Essay

1 paragragh China experienced the fall, absence, and eventually the re-establishment of imperial authority while Confucianism prevailed through all levels of society from the period of 100-600 C. E. The history of China has often been a history of periods of political unity interrupted by periods of political division. During the classical period from 100 C. E. to 600 C. E. , the Chinese experienced the Han dynasty which was an initially strong and efficient dynasty, until it had a gradual decline and eventually collapsed. This led to a long period of chaos and finally reunification again. During this time of unification, division, and reunification, many cultural and political changes occurred while other cultural patterns and ideas persisted. 2nd China in 100 CE was under the Han rule which had begun in 202 BCE. Under the Han dynasty the rulers created an efficient and well governed empire. The Han expanded China hundreds of miles to the west, north, and south and had many innovations such as the expansion of the Great wall. The people followed the teachings and values of Confucianism. They were so strong that they have lasted throughout the centuries of Chinese history and is still well-known today. The Chinese civilization lived in a patriarchal society and Confucius teachings created a guide to how a good family should live. Patriarchy was a continuity for Chinese civilization during the classical period. Many of his beliefs and values survived and withstood many changes to come 3rd Towards 200 CE things began to change and the Han dynasty began to fall. It first began with the bureaucratic system, it was becoming more corrupt with unqualified officials, etc. , and the political structure of China started to fall apart. Peasants became poorer and diseases started to spread causing many to die. The nomads kept trying to invade and the unstable government didn’t do much to push them back. This ultimately led to the Han’s demise. 4th When the Han dynasty fell in 220 CE, China was left in a state of turmoil for about 300 years called the â€Å"Warring States Period. † At this time China’s cultural unity was endangered by the spread of Buddhism. Luckily for China’s streak of continuity, the three century period of chaos ended with the rise of the Song/Tang Dynasties, which would also revive Confucianism. This was also one of China’s continuities, the rising and falling of dynasties which remained in China’s history for centuries. During the Warring States period, the Great Wall became divided between kingdoms and was poorly defended so nomads invaded and overtook the northern plains. Trade and city life declined, technology ceased, and intellectuals wasted away. In 589 CE the Song Dynasty was created which began to revive the country which had been in turmoil for so long. Bureaucracy was reinstated which a scholar gentry administration. By the time the Song era ended China was well on its way to becoming a stable nation again. 5 During the classical era, the Chinese civilization underwent major changes in their government. Despite the nomadic invasions that occurred, they remained strong and united. This was probably because China had a very solid social and political system that was based off of Confucianism and rulers who unified the Chinese culture. The cause of change in China’s government in the classical era can be due to the weakened government plus the nomadic invasions being the final blow in destroying the Han dynasty. Confucianism kept China together, socially. Despite the many changes that took place between 100 C. E. to 600 C. E. , China always leveled out culturally and kept their cultural continuity due to Confucius and how his teachings united China.

Definition and Examples of a Submerged Metaphor

Definition and Examples of a Submerged Metaphor A submerged metaphor is a type of metaphor (or figurative comparison) in which one of the terms (either the vehicle or the tenor) is implied rather than stated explicitly. In the book Myth and Mind (1988), Harvey Birenbaum observes that submerged metaphors lend the force of their associations in a subliminal way but are likely to be disruptive if they are realized too explicitly. Examples and Observations A submerged metaphor is  an implied comparison made in one or two words (usually verbs, nouns, adjectives). Example: Coach Smith mended the losing pitchers hurt feelings. (Not literally; he just tried to make him feel better.)​  (Patrick Sebranek,  Write Source 2000: A Guide to Writing, Thinking and Learning, 4th ed., 2000) Time and Change Metaphors Examples of submerged metaphor in the vocabulary include the lexical sub-system for constructing the meaning, or the set of concepts, that we call time and change. Expressions like time passes, as time goes by are based on the metaphor time is a moving object. Expressions like the elections are approaching, his mistakes are catching up with him are based on the metaphor events are objects moving along a path. Expressions like we are approaching the election, he thought he had left his mistakes behind him, and even we are going to win are based on the metaphor people are objects moving through time.​  (Paul Anthony Chilton and Christina Schffner, Politics as Text and Talk: Analytic Approaches to Political Discourse. John Benjamins, 2002) James Joyces Submerged Metaphors Reading Ulysses often depends upon recognizing the submerged metaphor in the stream of consciousness of the major characters. This is especially true of Stephen whose mind works in metaphorical terms. For example, Stephens association of the sea with the bowl of white china . . . holding [his mothers] green sluggish bile which she had torn up from her rotting liver by fits of loud groaning vomiting depends upon his responding to Mulligans shaving bowl as a transitive but submerged metaphor signified by the present members of the metaphorical seriesthe sea and the bowl of bileand in turn signifying them (U.5; I.108-110). Stephen is a hydrophobe whose neurosis depends upon metaphors taking precedence over logic.​  (Daniel R. Schwarz, Reading Joyces Ulysses. Macmillan, 1987) Also Known As: implicit metaphor

18 Pieces of Publishing Advice From Our Authors

18 Pieces of Publishing Advice From Our Authors 18 Pieces of Publishing Advice From Our Authors For the past two years, this blog has been home to the From Our Authors series: articles penned by authors on the Reedsy Network. They've kindly shared their publishing experiences with their fellow writers, filling us all in on what has worked (and not worked) for them. Straight from this well of knowledge, we've handpicked the 18 best pieces of advice from our authors.Thoughts on Writing1) Amanda Wills: There are two types of writers - Plotters and Pantsers â€Å"If you plan your novel to the nth degree before you type a single word, you’re a Plotter; if you sit at your computer, take a deep breath and fly by the seat of your pants, you’re a Pantser. There are pros and cons to both: Knowing exactly what’s coming next means that Plotters are less likely to suffer from writer’s block. Pantsers, on the other hand, have the freedom to let their characters take control, which can be both terrifying and exciting at the same time. However, be warned, Pantsers: editing will be especially important for you in order to spot plot continuity problems.†2) Frank Warsh: How reading comic books can enhance your storytelling skills "Maybe the goal of the story is plot-driven - setting up a story arc of Batman coming into conflict with the police and justice system. Maybe the goal is character-driven, and Batman’s increasing violence is a sign of repressed childhood memories. Maybe it’s both. The point is that comic books provide a ready-made template for breaking down your story into well-circumscribed chapters or â€Å"beats." success@reedsy.com and maybe our next round-up will feature nuggets of wisdom from you!

Disintermediation and Reintermediation Assignment

Disintermediation and Reintermediation - Assignment Example Reintermediation however defines re-introduction of the intermediaries in the commercial cycle. A business that focuses on optimization and specialization and has resources for utilizing intermediaries may therefore apply reintermediation while a small-scale enterprise that lacks resources and requires closer touch with clients may apply disintermediation in the same market (Oliver, Livermore and Sudweeks 100-102). Last week is the last time that one of us used a travel agent. Such applications are however common with most people preferring online agencies for inquiries, applications, business transactions. Online sites exist in different industries to mediate interactions among the industries’ stakeholders. Examples of the sights are Mmonster.com, Trulia.com, and LegalZoom.com and they offer cost efficiency and convenience to stakeholders. Trulia.com, for example, offer information on real estate, associated environments, and therefore saves real estate agents the cost and time that could be spent to move to different properties. Monster.com and LegalZoom.com also has the cost efficiency and time convenience effects (Cruz-Cunha and Varajao 138). A better understanding of the business environment is one of the potential opportunities that disintermediation offer for my new business. Potential conflict of interest among agents explains this. In order to secure their agency, agents would offer limited and complicated information with the aim of promoting dependence on their services while elimination of such agency will allow for a direct link with consumers to offer unlimited information on the market environment. Profit maximization is another opportunity that disintermediation offers to the business because of limited administration costs. Intermediaries may also mislead a new business to create an entry barrier and disintermediation can manage this (Oliver, Livermore and Sudweeks 100). A business like eBay still