Ponce De Leon And The Early Explorationof Florida Essays

Ponce de Leon and the Early Explorationof Florida Juan Ponce de Leon was born in 1460, in Tierra de Campos Paleia, in Leon, Spain (Ponce, 1996). He came from a noble family and entered the royal household as a page for Pedro Nunez de Guzman, at the Court of Aragon. Later, young Ponce de Leon would become a solider for Spain and fight in the battles to drive the Moors from Granada (Blassingame, 1991). In 1493, Leon sailed with Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to America (Ponce, 1996). He was a member of the forces that enslaved the Indians in Hispaniola.This was the European and Spanish way. Few explores would look upon the natives they encountered as anything more than talking animals. For the year of 1502 he was a captain under the governor of Hispaniola, Nicolas de Ovando (Thompson, 1990). During his time as captain he would suppress an Indian uprising. For this he was rewarded with the governorship of Higuey (Blassingame, 1991). Ponce de Leon would remain in Hispaniola until 1503. In this year he would be intrigued by the tales of gold to be found in Borinquen, known as the modern Puerto Rico (Ponce, 1994). He sailed to explore and settle the island. He landed on August 12, 1508 and soon conquered the island and was granted governorship of the island. There he carved himself a large estate, where he built a castle (Thompson, 1990). Ovanado was soon replaced with Diego Columbus, as governor of Hispaniola. And Columbus placed Juna Ceron as the new governor of Puerto Rico. For two years Leon fought to keep his governorship, but he was removed from the position. He was advised by King Ferdinand to find new land (Thompson 1990). The Indians of Hispaniola worked as slaves for the Europeans. They would tell great stories of a place called Bimini. It was a land filled with great riches. Ponce de Leon heard a different story from an old Indian woman. She added an interesting twist to her story. In her tale she told him of a magic fountain that turned middle aged and old persons in to young vibrant men and women. If the riches did not attract Ponce de Leon, the story of this fountain did. He was in his fifties and since his political career had failed, he figured, it was as good a time as any to explore the land (1990). Ponce de Leon left San German, Puerto Rico on March 3, 1513 and sailed with a fleet of three ships heading northwest toward Bimini. The chain of seven hundred Bahama islands was on his route but time would not allow him to explore each of them. He did visit the island of San Salvador where Columbus made his first landfall two decades before. The crew sighted the coast of America on March 3, 1513. This was Easter Sunday so he named the land Florida after the Spanish name for Easter, Pascua de Flores (Ponce, 1993). The first sighting took place near present day St. Augustine, which was to be founded fifty-two years later (1990). Six days after they sighted land they found a safe place to dock their ships. The royal banner of Spain was then flown over the new land. They expected the same lack of resistance as they had experienced when they came ashore at Hispaniola, but they were in for a surprise. The natives were fierce fighters and less enthusiastic of the appearance of these strange white men. Although their bow and arrows were not of significance to the Spaniards, but the poisoned arrows they used were. Ponce de Leon only went upon land when it was absolutely necessary. He never had the chance to explore the land for himself (1990). Ponce de Leon felt it was best to find a safer harbor. The fleet sailed south to the modern-day Cape Canaveral. The ships were caught in the strong current of the Gulf Stream which forced them to struggle for weeks along the Florida Keys. Ponce de Leon finally decided to turn around and head home. He was so overwhelmed with his discovery that he sailed directly to Spain (Ponce 1994). Ponce de Leon figured that this was a smart move on his part because three ships were not enough to do a proper job exploring the new land. He hoped that the king would give him permission and the equipment to explore his new land. Coming before the Ponce De Leon And The Early Explorationof Florida Essays Ponce de Leon and the Early Explorationof Florida Juan Ponce de Leon was born in 1460, in Tierra de Campos Paleia, in Leon, Spain (Ponce, 1996). He came from a noble family and entered the royal household as a page for Pedro Nunez de Guzman, at the Court of Aragon. Later, young Ponce de Leon would become a solider for Spain and fight in the battles to drive the Moors from Granada (Blassingame, 1991). In 1493, Leon sailed with Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to America (Ponce, 1996). He was a member of the forces that enslaved the Indians in Hispaniola.This was the European and Spanish way. Few explores would look upon the natives they encountered as anything more than talking animals. For the year of 1502 he was a captain under the governor of Hispaniola, Nicolas de Ovando (Thompson, 1990). During his time as captain he would suppress an Indian uprising. For this he was rewarded with the governorship of Higuey (Blassingame, 1991). Ponce de Leon would remain in Hispaniola until 1503. In this year he would be intrigued by the tales of gold to be found in Borinquen, known as the modern Puerto Rico (Ponce, 1994). He sailed to explore and settle the island. He landed on August 12, 1508 and soon conquered the island and was granted governorship of the island. There he carved himself a large estate, where he built a castle (Thompson, 1990). Ovanado was soon replaced with Diego Columbus, as governor of Hispaniola. And Columbus placed Juna Ceron as the new governor of Puerto Rico. For two years Leon fought to keep his governorship, but he was removed from the position. He was advised by King Ferdinand to find new land (Thompson 1990). The Indians of Hispaniola worked as slaves for the Europeans. They would tell great stories of a place called Bimini. It was a land filled with great riches. Ponce de Leon heard a different story from an old Indian woman. She added an interesting twist to her story. In her tale she told him of a magic fountain that turned middle aged and old persons in to young vibrant men and women. If the riches did not attract Ponce de Leon, the story of this fountain did. He was in his fifties and since his political career had failed, he figured, it was as good a time as any to explore the land (1990). Ponce de Leon left San German, Puerto Rico on March 3, 1513 and sailed with a fleet of three ships heading northwest toward Bimini. The chain of seven hundred Bahama islands was on his route but time would not allow him to explore each of them. He did visit the island of San Salvador where Columbus made his first landfall two decades before. The crew sighted the coast of America on March 3, 1513. This was Easter Sunday so he named the land Florida after the Spanish name for Easter, Pascua de Flores (Ponce, 1993). The first sighting took place near present day St. Augustine, which was to be founded fifty-two years later (1990). Six days after they sighted land they found a safe place to dock their ships. The royal banner of Spain was then flown over the new land. They expected the same lack of resistance as they had experienced when they came ashore at Hispaniola, but they were in for a surprise. The natives were fierce fighters and less enthusiastic of the appearance of these strange white men. Although their bow and arrows were not of significance to the Spaniards, but the poisoned arrows they used were. Ponce de Leon only went upon land when it was absolutely necessary. He never had the chance to explore the land for himself (1990). Ponce de Leon felt it was best to find a safer harbor. The fleet sailed south to the modern-day Cape Canaveral. The ships were caught in the strong current of the Gulf Stream which forced them to struggle for weeks along the Florida Keys. Ponce de Leon finally decided to turn around and head home. He was so overwhelmed with his discovery that he sailed directly to Spain (Ponce 1994). Ponce de Leon figured that this was a smart move on his part because three ships were not enough to do a proper job exploring the new land. He hoped that the king would give him permission and the equipment to explore his new land. Coming before the

ceramics1 essays

ceramics1 essays Richard Fairbanks, although many times overlooked, was an important American ceramist. He was known as a "loner" and because of this he was never really appreciated for his talent. Fairbanks was greatly influence by his professors. Professor Paul Bonifas, who taught at the University of Washington, was one who left a huge impact on Fairbanks work. Fairbanks created a system of sketching pottery profiles, which stemmed from Bonifas teachings, as a mean of "thinking on paper." This approach to pottery through sketching was a crucial element that separated Fairbanks from many other Asian-inspired American peers. Although, Fairbanks was a wheel thrown expert, he continued to "think on paper" throughout his creative life. Much of what absorbs Fairbanks interests can be seen in his making of candlesticks, casseroles, and vases. During the later part of his life he created three of his final pieces. One being the Stoneware Heart Plate, 1985, secondly the Stoneware server, 1985, and thirdly the Stoneware Vase, 1985. These were three of Fairbanks last works, which suggest the direction in which he was headed, in terms of what defined his style, before he became deathly ill. The plate, which is an exploration of decoration, is liquid clay or "slip pattern" of concentric circles around a valentine heart. This plate was wheel thrown, and glazed with iron oxide and copper red washes. I find it very interesting because it seems to portray more emotion than most of his other pieces. This can probably be indirectly associated with Fairbanks illness and how he was feeling at the time. The next piece he made during his period of illness was called the "Stoneware Server." The server can be explained by "unadorned simplicity." It also takes on some style of the art deco period. Fairbanks decided that for the server, he would decorate a new style of handles. The thrown thread-spool shape. Many people explained this serv...

Explain clearly what is understood by the meaning of Leadership. What Essay

Explain clearly what is understood by the meaning of Leadership. What is the distinction between Leadership and Management - Essay Example The paper will discuss certain leadership taxonomies and definitions and will also explore a few leadership theories in order to get an insight into leadership. The second part of the paper will strive to find out the main discrepancies between management and leadership and the reasons as to why both are assets to an organization. Both functions are complementary to each other and without the existence of any one of the two it becomes impossible for the other to perform effectively thereby impairing organizational growth. Contents Abstract 2 Contents 3 Introduction 4 Insights into leadership 5 Leadership theories 6 Leadership and management – a distinction 8 Conclusion 10 Reference 11 Introduction One of the most popular and discussed topic is leadership. Scholars have tried to define leadership in several manners. In an examination of 587 publications, at least 221 definitions of leadership had emerged. Leadership is the manner in which an individual induces aspects of respec t, obedience, cooperation and loyalty among followers. Leadership in the 1930s was considered to be an area where organizations had to move depending on specifications provided by the leader. The 40’s definition of leadership focussed on the constructs of power, authority, circumstances and position. The 1950s definition emphasized on the essentials of team building and the authority the leader commanded on team members. The 1960s definition of leadership influenced followers to shared goals and vision. The 1970s leadership definition viewed a leader to have discretionary powers and 1980s the leader inspired the followers to conduct meaningful activity. The 1990s defined leadership as a combined task accomplished by both followers and leader to make certain modifications impacting common purposes. The first ten years of the twenty first century witnessed the leader to be solely accountable and responsible for all activities conducted in an organization. From the above, it may be observed that there are certain themes in leadership. These are as follows: a) Leadership is not limited to senior management members or the top boss b) Leadership helps in excelling performance level in followers c) Management and leadership are two distinct constructs d) There is a humanistic and sensitive dimension to leadership e) Leaders need to apply a host of skills, capabilities, qualities thereby undertaking a holistic approach f) An individual who has expertise in implementing, initiating and anticipating change is a successful leader (Bass & Bass, 2008) Insights into leadership Leadership styles vary from person to person. However, the manner in which one may be able to aptly distinguish various leaders depends on the manner in which they act on logic. This is the skill to interpret and analyze surroundings especially when they are challenged by some external or internal issues. Academic scholars have observed that leaders who delved deep within them to develop and un derstand themselves can transform their own capabilities as well as the capabilities of the organization. The effectiveness of organizations mainly depends on coordinated leadership which stems from leaders having varied levels of hierarchy. Their skills help in impacting individuals, units, teams and the overall organizational results. Academic study on leadership has highlighted that leadership significantly impact units, teams and the entire organization. Although there is vast literature on the outcomes of effective

Answer to legal problem questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Answer to legal problem questions - Essay Example The test for breach of duty of care was objective. S180 on the civil penalty provision (ASIC V Rich3) and damages (Deputy Commission on Taxation V Clark4) are the potential remedies for NatureWorld. Application: In the case at bar, DD, WW and SS, being directors of NatureWorld, must exercise care and diligence under Section 180, which states that a director or other officer of the corporation must exercise their powers and discharge their duties with the degree of care and diligence that a reasonable person would exercise. Here, all three executive directors failed to exercise the standard of care and diligence required under the law. In the case of AWA V Daniels5, the court decided to tighten-up the director’s duties in Australia and deviate from the old common law duty. While in the case of Daniels V. Anderson6 involving similar facts, Daniels counter-sued by alleging that the Board failed to discharge their duty of care and diligence. The Court held that auditors and execut ive directors are liable in negligence since they had no mechanism in place allowing the directors to monitor the audit which contributed to failure to report the irregularities. Further, it ruled that the test for the breach of duty of care was objective. ... While the case of Clark9 held that there is a â€Å"core, irreducible requirement† of involvement among directors in the management of the corporation which prohibits â€Å"sleeping or passive directors†. Applying these cases, the suit filed by the auditor against DD, WW and SS shall prosper for failure to exercise the standard of care and diligence required under S180. Their negligence caused damage to NatureWorld for failure to monitor the financial condition of the company and to conduct a â€Å"general monitoring† of the company’s affairs. Remedies: The Corporation should file a case against the auditor, DD, WW and SS, as executive directors for breaching the standard of care and diligence required under S180, which provides a civil liability provision, for the damage incurred by the corporation brought about by such breach. QUESTION 2 Facts/Issues: One of the employees of the company, Noi Dea was negligent while conducting a tour, which caused serious injuries to one party, thus incurring medical expenses amounting to $330,000. Based on tort, the corporation is secondarily liable to the victim for the acts committed by its employee under the concept of â€Å"vicarious liability†. Law: NatureWorld is liable under the principle of corporate liability in tort, which a breach of a common law duty, or a statutory duty which results to an injury. This shall give rise to the civil right of the injured party to file an action for damages. In the decided case of Lord Grace V Smith10, Armagas Limited V Mundogas, S.A.11, and Bugge V Brown12, the Court ruled that employers are secondarily liable applying the â€Å"doctrine of agency† or â€Å"respondeat superior†, wherein the employer shall be liable for the acts of its employees or subordinates in

GENETICS Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

GENETICS - Assignment Example In connection with this, it is evident that biotechnology has led to the introduction of hybrids of plants and animals through cloning and gene therapy. It is also apparent that employment of biotechnology in the medical contexts has enhanced the production of effective medicine. However, the ethical issues surrounding the application of biotechnology in real life situation are diverse and convincing. For instance, Coulter, Myers and Varacalli assert that the extensive use of biotechnology has led to human beings being used as the instruments of biotechnology. In connection with this, it is also evident that biotechnology has resulted in biological manipulations (Morris, 2006). It has distorted the profoundly human activities such as those associated with receiving and nurturing life. The production of genetically modified foods has also raised public concerns in many developed countries. Majority of the people believe that the food crops generated via biotechnology may result in fatal health complications (Morrey & Sherlock, 2002). Additionally, it is evident that the introduction of genetically modified organisms hampers with the marketing of organic

Petrol Prices Have Seen A Shocking Hike Economics Essay

Petrol Prices Have Seen A Shocking Hike Economics Essay The petrol prices have seen a shocking hike of Rs.7.5 on the 23rd of May. The increase is the first since December, 2011. It went up to INR 78.16 per liter. The RBI was having a tough time coping with the rising inflation and this increase in petrol prices will make it very difficult for them to manage. The rise in price will also hit the common man who is trying very hard to make ends meet. The rate of inflation (annual), based on monthly WPI, stood at 7.23% for April (over April 2011) compared to 6.89% for the previous month The Petrol prices in the four major metros after the hike are as follows: Metro Before petrol hike After Petrol Hike Delhi 65.64 73.14 Mumbai 70.66 78.16 Kolkata 70.03 77.53 Chennai 69.55 77.05 The increase in fuel prices directly or indirectly affects all the major sectors of the country. It affects the transportation, textiles, auto, FMCG, manufacturing, agriculture sectors and so on.   The impact of the indirect effect is that the prices of daily basic commodities get affected and this increase in price of goods would gradually force people to spend more and save less. 58.4% of the Indian population belongs to the agricultural sector and their contribution to the total GDP is only about 18%. Such small amount of income being distributed over a large population have a huge impact on them as even a slightest fluctuation would make them poorer which will further the gap between the rich and the poor. The graph below shows the petrol price fluctuations over the past two decades. cid:[emailprotected] About 50% of the total Indian exports earnings is spent on buying petroleum, particularly, crude oil, this has a negative impact on the countrys overall economy. In the past five years, the amount of imports of the petroleum products is almost 40 per cent of the total exports of India in the last six years. For the year, 2011-12, it has been as high as 51.2 per cent. Such large quantities of imports will exert huge amount of pressure on Indias current account deficit. This increase in the crude oil imports is not just because of the increase in the price but also because of the increase in demand of fuel in the country. The amount of petroleum imports has increased from 82 million tons in 2002-03 to 164 million tons in 2010-11, thus increasing the import bills in terms of rupees by over 500 per cent between 2002-03 and 2010-11. These imports are one of the causes of the depleting foreign exchange reserves. In 2002-03, the percentage of petroleum imports with respect to the foreign exchange reserves were 23.18 and it went up to 34.80 per cent in 2010-11. This should be a major source of concern as a large chunk of the countrys foreign exchange earnings are spent on import of a single commodity. The  ownership of vehicles in India is growing at compound annual growth rate of 12%  for the two wheelers.71% of vehicles are two wheelers, and they run on petrol. Also the sale of two wheelers is around seven times more than the sales of car within the country. Two wheelers essentially provide mobility to the aspiring and the middle class. This gives us a fair idea about the huge amount of petro consumed by the people. India was the worlds fifth largest importer of oil. It imports more than 2.2 million bbl/d, i.e. around 70 percent of its consumption.  Its major imports come from the Middle East (34%), Saudi Arabia (18%) and Africa (22%). cid:[emailprotected] From the below table we can see that, the price of petrol has risen over the period of five years in different countries. Indias and the emerging economies like Russia and Chinas petrol price has grown over by 60% during the past 5 years while the developed economies have   only a max of 20% price growth over the past 5 years. Country and Currency 2007 2012 % increase India (INR) 48.38 78.57 62.4 USA (US$) 0.87 1.02 17.98 Russia (Ruble) 16.79 25.41 51.34 China (Yuan) 4.94 8.33 68.62 Japan (Yen) 136.7 149.4 9.29 Germany (Euro) 1.394 1.631 17 UK (Pound) 1.40197 1.68137 19.92 Both oil and petroleum products are scarce commodities. Therefore both demand and supply are less elastic. The demand-supply and other factors   like cartel, hoarding, supply shocks etc., the prices are   fluctuating (increasing) to such great levels causing demand pull, as well as cost push inflation. The inflated oil prices not only affect the poor people of the country but also rich people. But the impact is more significant on the poor people. Increase in the international oil price leads to a domestic inflation, which thereby decreases the foreign exchange reserves. The supply of the foreign currency reduces thus appreciating the value of the foreign currency and depreciating the local currency which in turn increases the prices of imports. It also deteriorates the balance of trade of the country. All these factors push a country into the poverty trap. International oil price hike affects both the public and the government. It brings in inflation and reduces the purchasing power of the people. It also affects the governments revenue and expenditure. Government being the biggest consumer, it has a negative effect on the real GDP, on the foreign exchange reserves; it increases the total foreign debt of the country and also further deteriorates the current account deficit of the country. With the increase in the fuel prices, the price of consumer products increases because oil is an essential component of the industrial and the manufacturing sectors, also petrol and diesel is used for the transportation of goods, thus creating an inflationary pressure. The government can take a few initiatives which can help in the long run. For e.g. there could be a fuel shift from petrol, diesel to Hybrid, CNG, non-motorized transport etc. Also we could undergo a modal shift i.e. from road freight transport to rail freight transport. The government can also make fuel more affordable by targeting more on subsidies and improving the already existing schemes. Also the vehicles fuel economy standards can be improved there by making it fuel efficient. People can take a few demand side management initiatives like car pooling etc.

Human Gene Therapy :: Science Genetics Papers

Human Gene Therapy Each of us carry about half a dozen defective genes. Most of us do not suffer any harmful effects from our defective genes because we carry two copies of nearly all genes, one derived from our mother and the other from our father. Because in the majority of cases, the potentially harmful gene is recessive, its normal counterpart will carry out all the tasks assigned to both. Only if we inherit from our parents two copies of the same recessive gene will a disease develop. Every year a considerable number of children are born with a genetic disease, a disease that occurs because each of their parents carries a defect in the same gene (Rigby 1995). The most common disease of this sort, with about couple thousand affected children born each year, is cystic fibrosis, which leads to a clogging of the lungs, and to problems with digestion and other functions. Although improvements in care and treatment mean that people with cystic fibrosis can now live for up to twenty-five years, there is no cure. A much rarer but nevertheless well known disease, is severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). SCID children with this condition have a defect in both copies of a gene which is required for the proper functioning of the immune system. The children can be kept alive but they have to live in sterile plastic bubbles to isolate them from bacteria and viruses. These children would die of infections which would only keep the rest of us in bed for a couple of days. Again , while there are treatments, there is no cure. However, in simple terms the cure is obvious. If the children are ill because they have two bad copies of a gene, it follows that if we could give them a good copy of the gene they would then be like their parents and be healthy. This very obvious idea is called gene therapy. Concept of Gene Therapy Gene therapy is the insertion of a functioning gene into the cells of a patient to correct an inborn error of metabolism or to provide a new function in a cell. This is a very broad definition that includes the potential treatment of essentially all types of human disease through the genetic modification of cells of the human body to prevent or eliminate disease. There are two main types of gene therapy, germinal cell and somatic cell gene therapy (Culver 1996).

Research Statement on the Impact of the American Culture to Canadian Cultural

Historically, Canada has been subjected to various cultures such as that of the British and the French. From as early the 1500s, European explorers, traders, and fishermen from England, Ireland and France helped form the basis of Canadian culture. Now in the modern era, there is another addition in the list of cultural influences affecting the Canadian society. This cultural treat comes in the form of the contemporary American culture.American influence is clearly visible but not fully acknowledge by most Canadians. Several people think that this is an implied disposition but there is also a great number who believe that this is explicitly manifested in the Canadian culture. Proximity and the migration of people, ideas, and capital were deemed to be the cause of America’s immense influence on Canadians (Canada culture).This study aims to uncover the predicament of the Canadian culture in relation to being associated to the American Culture. Public perception of the United Stat es as a global powerhouse in politics, economics and culture has produced a very potent American culture wherein in this case, Canadians have unconsciously embraced it as demonstrated in their fondness for Hollywood, U. S. landscapes and American vernacular (Kellogg, 2004).Determining the starting point, extent and effect of the American influence on Canadian culture will provide an ample amount of information that would explore the ways in which American influences have challenged Canada's cultural values and asks whether Canada is able to maintain its own identity. The period covered would start from post-modern era to present. The time frame relatively represents the age of globalization when culture is intensified and amplified to meet the clamor for innovations.Generally, Post modernism is a movement of ideas arising from, but also critical of elements of modernism. This definition embodies the present state of the American culture. Understanding Culture It is important to unde rstand and identify aspects of culture that leads to its pervasion across geographical and political boundaries. It is equally important to understand the roots of cultural disparity and differences that often places two civilizations, though geographically contiguous, at subtle levels of conflict and confrontation.The cultural spectrum holds different shades for a person, a society and a nation, accordingly helping each of them to assimilate and adapt to a common identity that is defined and shaped by culture. In the process of evolving this collective identity, culture transcends its traditional role of providing an aggregate set of beliefs, customs, norms, values, ethics, traditions, moral, social and legal codes, perceptions, and philosophy, to become the overall physical framework for the society to function.Culture attains a real form, rendering a three dimensional living space for people to experience its living force (Mahant and Mount, 2002). Culture is strongly related with geographical setting of a place, religion, ethnicity, and race, explaining why different countries have different cultures, and also why places on seashore share common elements of culture that is quite different from culture of mountainous places.The imprinting of culture on ways a person thinks, acts, perceives the environment and models his/her reaction is very strong and virtually indelible, determining every aspect of human behavior and giving rise to cultural identity in addition to individual and national identity. Although the classic rational choice framework says that people are independent in choice of their behavior and approach towards events, its seen that at subtle levels the structural model provided by culture acts as final determinant in predicting a person, a society and a nation.Although culture is dynamic, evolving and continuously upgrading itself, in essence, these changes occur within the context of culture’s own timeframe (Mahant and Mount, 2002). On e of the most important contribution of culture to human civilization is the orientation provided towards other cultures, making the culture in question receptive, tolerant, indifferent or outright hostile towards different cultures. Societies are seldom mono-cultural, displaying a range of cultural traits, achieved through generations of trades, contact, and cross cultural mixing.However, although for people belonging to a particular culture, their culture would hardly seem complex, the cultural realities are hidden beneath the surface, difficult to observe and discern from outside. These improper understanding and imperfect perceptions of culture often give rise to conflict when different cultures are required to meet or come across. Cultural Dialogue and Imprinting between USA and Canada In recent times, the Canadian cultural policy has taken an inward looking approach in order to minimize influence of United State Culture while supporting Canadian cultural elements.The rhetoric of cultural protectionism is familiar-aimed towards protecting Canadian cultural, its sovereignty and identity; assuring shelf space for Canada in a world completely occupied by Americanism; assuring a zone of creative independence to Canadians where their tales would be theirs’ alone. This introvert attitude is also promoted with an aim to counter the market dominance of American products, their selling strategies, , their discriminatory policies against Canadian goods and their challenge to Canadian sense of independence, unity, and identity (Mahant and Mount, 2002).It is no wonder that this logic is also forwarded as an argument for protecting and promoting cultural diversity. Such rhetoric have come repeatedly off Canadian politicians, cultural leaders and taken up fervently a large section of Canadian media. (Acheson and Maule, 1999, 329-48). However, these maneuvers lack a historical perspective of US and Canada relation that dates back to the earliest days of colonial settlements. At the time when United States of America achieved its independence in 1783, it comprised of thirteen principle colonies, comprising most of people, and habitable parts of the region at the time.What was left of British North America contained a large territory with scant but primarily English speaking population as a direct result of the American Revolution when most of the loyalist fled there (Maule, 2003). This predominantly English culture implied that this region, which would be later, organized as Canada would bear a close relationship with its politically and economically advanced neighbor. The binding thread of English language and same English culture provided both Canada and USA a common cultural platform, especially in a huge and isolated landscape.The cultural interaction between two countries took place at same frequency and within the same context, and it filled Canadians with a sense of creation and recognition of a joint cultural space where events in Un ited States did not take place across the border, rather across the boundary wall (MacKinnon, 1973). The feeling of continuous cultural space permeated through most of 19th century, as people across border established close links and immigration between the two nations took place with a greater ease than intra-state travel in many countries.Naturally, owing to its superior size, population, vastly greater economy and industrial prowess, USA took the role of big-brother between two nations and for the initial days, Canadians were perfectly content in following USA as a role model for practically all aspects of their life (Maule, 2003). Hence it is no surprise that education, political system and social structure of Canada closely toed on US lines (MacKinnon, 1973). By the beginning of 20th century, US media, press and broadcast were largely dominating their Canadian counterparts.Reports citing surveys conducted in the period 1920-26 state that Canadian readership for US magazines, bo oks and newspapers had gone on all time high, leaving behind British and even their own publications by several degrees (Acheson and Maule, 1999, 329-48). Meanwhile, with emergence of motion picture and wireless broadcast, Americanism, its ethics and its values found a much quicker and shorter route to penetrate Canadian horizons. The cultural extension of USA in Canada was of sufficient strength to mould its business interests to the interest of United States commercial enterprises (Maule, 2003).However, Canadian identity received a major boost post the Second World War, where their armed legions had distinguished themselves. Cultural issues now took centerstage and several commissions instituted by Canadian government were unanimous in their recommendations for establishing councils that would oversee development of Canadian art, literature, music, and aesthetics, independent of the drug laden bohemian US pop culture. By 1957, Canadian government had established the council for ar t and music and opened Canadian public library.The government even took several relatively draconian measures, such as levying tax on popular American magazines in order to divert the readership as well advertisers to Canadian publications. The government also invested in establishing a network of universities and colleges with independent curriculum than their US counterparts (Peers, 1969). Protecting Canadian Culture Canadian culture has always been protective towards its earlier British root, and although there is a continuous influx of people from around the world in Canada, the essential Canadian values hung close to colonial memories for a considerable time(Dean and Dehejia, 2006).Naturally the completely un-conventional and un-orthodox American value system and cultural symbols had always posed a threat to traditional values and cultural system of Canada. Further, the inner progress towards nationhood since 1960 has permeated a feeling of nationalism in Canada, where, coming out of British cultural dominion, they attempted to assert themselves as a national group (Fulford. 1990). Under these circumstances an assault of US cultural values was seen as a threat to the nascent Cultural nationalism and Canadian cultural-value system.Despite instituting these measures, Canadian government could not claim complete immunity by ever growing American influence through its beaming pop culture, movie world and non-conservative attitude towards system of values and ethics. The presence of an active, forward, and rather intruding American culture let Canada to retain at least five different types of measures to protect its culture were still in place. The first of these measures known as ‘Cancon’ regulations have been extant since 1930s and by 1990s they formed a essential if somewhat erratic part of the principle measures in place to check American Culture.Under the provisions of Cancon regulations, its compulsory for Canadian private broadcasters to sh ow at least 60 percent Canadian content during evening â€Å"prime time,†. Although in practice, the duration is considerably lower than what is stipulated, yet it has ensured that at the least some Canadian content is broadcasted. but most show considerably less than these figures would suggest (Kellog, 2004). As a direct consequence of cancon regulation surveys conducted in May 2000 reveal that 35 percent of all music played on Canadian radio stations is Canadian with some quota also for primarily instrumental music.To ensure Canadian presence in television programs, the government has introduced a a point system that measures Canadian-ness of programs in terms of the proportion of Canadians involved (Mahant and Mount, 2002). Although these measures did not necessarily reflect the accurate picture, neither assured Canadian-ness of content, they have remained effective from a general point of view in keeping Canadian culture afloat (Kellog, 2004). The second category of meas ures have consisted trade protection to Canadian broadcasters and media.Although, with introduction of WTO rules and regulations, many of these regulations have disappeared, yet the remnants continue to provide a structural security to Canadian broadcasters (Dean and Dehejia, 2006). In the third set of measurements, Canadian government took steps to increase investment in Canadian media and broadcast industry. The government recognized that cultural performance in Canada is linked with ownership and control. These investment policies have allowed the prevention of American bookstore chains and media industries from comprehensive takeover of their Canadian counterparts.Though the government has allowed limited foreign investment in the cultural industries, the center of its focus has remained on promoting and nurturing Canada based cultural entities (Mahant and Mount, 2002. Under the fourth set of measurement, government decided to directly subsidize Canadian Cultural entities. The s ubsidies have become central to Canadian policies to protect, and encourage Canadian cultural values, entities, art and music, especially after NAFTA and WTO have led to elimination of a number of other protective measures (Mahant and Mount, 2002).For example, according to a 1997 ruling, WTO stipulated that the postal subsidies enjoyed by Canadian magazines would be regarded as an illegal subsidy. Therefore, government has provisioned systems of direct grants and subsidies as a result of which nearly all the forms of Canadian cultural entities, ranging from from book publishing to films to readings by writers and art exhibits enjoys measures of government subsidy and supported (Mahant and Mount, 2002). The serious intents of Canadian government can be estimated from the fact that in 1996-97 government spent more than $5.6 billion dollars in cultural subsidies and grants; Apart from these measures, the Canadian government has also established a number of ad hoc measures, rules and re gulations to protect its heritage and Culture. This ad hoc approach has been necessary especially since WTO and NAFTA have continued to pressurize and impeded government’s efforts to protect Canadian cultural industries and sectors (Mahant and Mount, 2002. Certainly these measures diluted, if not ended, US cultural dominance on Canadian social space.However, US media, riding upon its buoyant economy and its technological enterprise continued to dazzle the world, and it was little surprise that, its culturally closest neighbor, Canada could hardly escape their affect. As the era of globalization, Internet and social networking has dawned upon the world, it is inevitable that Canadian cultural distinctions would at some point of time reflect the values and ethics promoted by a US dominated world (Mahant and Mount, 2002). References Blackwell, J. D. and Blackwell-Stanley, L. C.. Canadian Studies: A Guide to the Sources.Retrieved February 12, 2008, from http://www. iccs-ciec. ca/ blackwell. html#culture Canada culture. Retrieved February 12, 2008, from http://www. university- world. com/canada/canada_culture. html Kellog, A. (2004). Despite American culture creep, Canadian values remain. Edmonton Journal. Retrieved February 12, 2008, from http://www. gaiecoute. com/default. aspx? scheme=2150. Large Canada Urban Areas Population and Density: 2001. Statistics Canada:2001 McGregor, G. The Beaver Bites Back: American Popular Culture in Canada David H.Flaherty and Frank E. Manning (eds. ). Montreal and Kingston: McGill-Queen's University Press, 1993. 356 pp. CJS Online. Retrieved February 12, 2008, from http://www. cjsonline. ca/articles/mcgregor. html O'Neil, D. Overview. (2006). Retrieved February 12, 2008, from http://anthro. palomar. edu/change/change_1. htm Mahant. E. E. , Mount, G. S. 2001. The U. S. Cultural Impact upon Canada; American Review of Canadian Studies, Vol. 31. Maule, C. 2003. State of the Canada-U. S. Relationship: Culture. American Review of Canadian Studies, Vol. 33, 2003.Neil MacKinnon, â€Å"The Changing Attitudes of the Nova Scotian Loyalists towards the United States, 1783-1791,† Acadiensis 2 (Spring 1973). Acheson, Keith and Christopher Maule, Much Ado about Culture: North American Trade Disputes. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 1999. Frank W. Peers, The Politics of Canadian Broadcasting, 1920-1951 (Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1969) W James W Dean, and Vivek H Dehejia. 2006. Would a Borderless North America Kill Canadian Culture? , American Review of Canadian Studies, Vol. 36. Robert Fulford. 1990. Canada: A Great Northern Paradox? Americas (English Edition), Vol 42.

Free Essays on Stay At Home Moms

Today’s American family is very different from the typical â€Å"ideal family† that was the norm only half a century ago. Family life in the 1950s consisted of a father who left for work every morning and a loyal mother who stayed at home to tend to her house and the children. This concept is no longer the norm for American households. Families today come in all shape and sizes, and more and more moms are trading in their gardens and cooking utensils for the hustle and bustle of the American work force. â€Å"The number of employed mothers with children under age 18 were 70.1% in 1999, up from to 66.3% in 1990.†11 Are working mothers better than stay-at-home mothers? For many women, the decision to stay at home or work is very frustrating. What if a mother decides to work? For some families, having mom stay at home is not feasible. A second income is necessary to make ends meet. Even if two incomes is not critical, income is not the advantage when a mother works. Health insurance, life insurance, and saving for retirement can persuade a mom to stay at home or work.. When a mother decides to stay at home, she can cut out the hidden expenses of work. These expenses may include business clothes, dry cleaning, gas, expensive lattes from a coffee shop, and overly-priced burgers at a fast food restaurant.. Staying at home will eliminate child care expenses. Depending on what state a family lives in, child care can add up. â€Å"For example, in Ohio the average cost for full-time child care for a 1-year-old is $4,940.†2 An issue that a working mother has to wrestle with is the emotional and physical well-being of her children. She may feel as if she missing out on the most important years of her kid’s lives. And inevitably, all working moms will miss some of their children’s growing years. Nothing is more heart-breaking to a mother than to hear from a day care giver that Billy said â€Å"momma† for the first ti... Free Essays on Stay At Home Moms Free Essays on Stay At Home Moms Today’s American family is very different from the typical â€Å"ideal family† that was the norm only half a century ago. Family life in the 1950s consisted of a father who left for work every morning and a loyal mother who stayed at home to tend to her house and the children. This concept is no longer the norm for American households. Families today come in all shape and sizes, and more and more moms are trading in their gardens and cooking utensils for the hustle and bustle of the American work force. â€Å"The number of employed mothers with children under age 18 were 70.1% in 1999, up from to 66.3% in 1990.†11 Are working mothers better than stay-at-home mothers? For many women, the decision to stay at home or work is very frustrating. What if a mother decides to work? For some families, having mom stay at home is not feasible. A second income is necessary to make ends meet. Even if two incomes is not critical, income is not the advantage when a mother works. Health insurance, life insurance, and saving for retirement can persuade a mom to stay at home or work.. When a mother decides to stay at home, she can cut out the hidden expenses of work. These expenses may include business clothes, dry cleaning, gas, expensive lattes from a coffee shop, and overly-priced burgers at a fast food restaurant.. Staying at home will eliminate child care expenses. Depending on what state a family lives in, child care can add up. â€Å"For example, in Ohio the average cost for full-time child care for a 1-year-old is $4,940.†2 An issue that a working mother has to wrestle with is the emotional and physical well-being of her children. She may feel as if she missing out on the most important years of her kid’s lives. And inevitably, all working moms will miss some of their children’s growing years. Nothing is more heart-breaking to a mother than to hear from a day care giver that Billy said â€Å"momma† for the first ti...

Investing in the UAE

Investing in the UAE Introduction The United Arab Emirates has caused a stir in the Middle Eastern region due to increased attention from foreign investors based on its investment potential. It is critical to look at the reasons behind this tendency through theoretical lenses as well as specific case studies.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Investing in the UAE specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Economic environment for FDI in UAE Growth and direction of FDI in the UAE Several recent reports show that FDI in the UAE is a force worth reckoning. One such report was the Kearney FDI confidence interval that was released this year i.e. 2010. It placed the UAE as the eleventh best country to invest in the world. In the North African and Middle Eastern region, this country was ranked as the most preferred destination. Additionally, it was asserted that approximately 21 billion US dollars worth of Foreign Direct Investment entered this Gulf regio n (Razin Sadka, 2007). This country is a stable hub for investment although it has a few flaws here that can be corrected given the right time. Theoretical implications and government policy towards FDI in UAE The government of the UAE is firmly committed to the development of infrastructure because it is aware that the backbone to investment. Consequently, continual infrastructure growth has promoted a higher number of FDI. Furthermore, because the UAE is seen as a hub in the Middle Eastern and North African region, many investors can start with the UAE so as to gain access to other regional markets through this country. Furthermore, the geographical location of the country is what has attracted most investors there. It is considered as a gateway not just to the region but to other international markets (Dubai Chamber, 2009). Consequently, a business person from a developing nation will first start with Dubai in order to gain entry to other traditional world markets such as New Yo rk or London. In order to do well in any foreign market, one must be assured of finding the right business partners through the efforts of local entrepreneurs. It is therefore imperative for countries seeking foreign investment to develop the skills and capabilities of their local workers because these individuals will cooperate with foreign businessmen to make their ventures work (Dunning, 2002). Many analysts and businesspersons assert that there are capable and well qualified individuals in the UAE who can make solid business partners with these respective investors.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Government policy is such that it aims at encouraging as much foreign investment as possible. However, in order to avoid cases of exploitation, this country has created a policy where local agents must be involved (Abu Dhabi Chamber of commerce and industry, 2010). T his means that any foreign investor must be willing to comply with their ownership laws. All business activities initiated by foreigners must be such that not less than fifty one percent of ownership is ascribed to a UAE national. Only those expatriates who come from partner zones are allowed full ownership of businesses in the UAE. Furthermore, foreign companies that choose to open companies there must do so with the assistance of a local representative who will then act as a service agent. Even those individuals who are interested in selling their services and goods to the UAE must do so through a commercial agent who is located in the UAE who works hand in hand with the foreigner. Many economic specialists have argued that this is a major challenge because certain areas of the economy would benefit tremendously if this law of UAE part ownership was abolished such that one hundred percent foreign ownership was plausible. Whey developing and developed countries have increased to th e UAE A high number of developing and developed nations are looking towards the UAE because of a number of reasons. Some of them enter because they are interested in pursing new and promising foreign markets (Alasaad, 2010). The global economic downturn has not done much to improve conditions for businessmen in traditional world markets, consequently, investors have been looking for a place that was not as directly affected by this downturn as the traditional markets in western nations and the UAE has been one such area. Additionally, in order for people to start any investment then there should be ample business opportunities in target markets. The UAE is rich in these business opportunities and has therefore witnessed the rise in the number of foreign investors visiting such a destination. Many people from developing nations with low level skills will approach the UAE in order to provide their labour. Even professionals from developed nations will do the same because they are awar e of the opportunities present there.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Investing in the UAE specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Lastly this nation has attracted so much FDI because of the provision of investment of information by the concerned ministries as well as the prevalence of capable administrators in these areas. Furthermore, it has been marketed as investor friendly. FDI participants are often entitled to tax based incentives that make it quite favourable. In case of business start ups and disputes, matters are often resolved through a stable legal system. So generally speaking, Dubai and the UAE has a good business climate. Its growth prospects as well as the political and economic conditions make the country ideal for investment by interested parties. Foreign company that has invested in the UAE The company has several branches worldwide but was established in the UAE during the year 1975. It is a constructi on company that has become successful owing to increased building expertise and proper management of very complex projects within this nation. It has a sound relationship with architects, contractors and sub contractors thus being in a position to deliver high quality buildings to their respective clientele (Turner Construction Company, 2010). Problems and benefits faced by it The UAE has benefitted from rapid growth owing to the rapid growth of their construction sector. Prior to 2008, this sector was experiencing a rapid boom. However, after the economic downturn, countries around the world began witnessing declines. Since the UAE was highly dependent on foreigners for investment in construction, these potential clients could no longer afford making huge investments and construction projections went down. Turner Construction Company was a victim of this external factor because the construction boom it was enjoying no longer held true. At this time, new projects from the government are scanty and the firm has had to look to other areas for business.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, the country is still the biggest construction market in the Middle Eastern and North African region with seven hundred and fourteen billion US dollars worth of construction projects still in their planning phase. It is such figures that make the Turner Construction Company optimistic about prospects for the future (Turner Construction Company, 2010). Turner Construction Company is still highly profitable because it has redefined its business model. In the past, the latter firm was relying on government sponsored projects. However, this has now changed dramatically. Now the company has forged new alliances with members of competitive environments. However, it is still keeping its focus on some infrastructural projects that have been sponsored by the government in order to stimulate the economy. In this regard, the latter organisation has been responsible for the growth of certain public facilities including some in the health sector and others in the education sector. Usuall y, this company may engage in a number of projects that differ in their design and their purposes. Sometimes, constructions may be done in order to create development properties designed to support certain economic centres such as airports. Conversely, the company may engage in construction of buildings for entertainment purposes. These include hotels, casinos and the like. Most of the clients in the latter category normally focus on the coastline and tourist attractions. Although, these have not been the main area of focus, they have still played a small part in maintaining profitability for the latter organisation. The company has also been challenged by the fact that most government attention is now being directed to road, rail, power and the like. This means that the amount of money allocated to projects that are the speciality of Turner Construction have been reduced and this may lead to subsequent changes in the manner in which businesses are being managed. No serious construc tion company can lay claim to the management or design of properties without involvement of sustainability concepts. The company has been involved in green building construction. It has also played a part in the creation of infrastructure in plants designed to offer green energy to the population. Turner Construction Company has had some strong points in 2009 and 2010 as well. First, this organisation has benefited from lower material costs. Between the period of 2009 and 2010, construction based materials have been dropping dramatically in the UAE more than any other country in the Middle Eastern region. Furthermore, the economic downturn has contributed towards lower labour costs in this country. This may be a problem for individuals who came to look for work in the UAE but it has benefited construction companies such as the one under analysis (Bende Nabende, 2002). In fact, the latter company has been able to save a lot on its operating costs because these expenditures normally t ake up a huge portion of costs. Currently, this company is benefiting from the ambitious plans that the UAE’s government has cut out for its respective individuals. Here, areas such as Abu Dhabi have dispensed a plan known as Plan 2030. The intension is for the creation of a new capital city, sporting and cultural centre development as well as development of about 200 islands linked to Abu Dhabi. These targets represent huge opportunities for the company under analysis because Abu Dhabi administrators are now inviting tenders for some of these projects from the private sector (Abhu Dhabi government, 2010). In this respect, it is likely that the organization will grow well into the future. On top of this, the government frequently makes announcements on commitments to infrastructure so it will then be possible to achieve that through the help of construction companies. Even though private developers may be tumultuous and hesitant towards the development of new projects, it is likely that the government plans will be adequate to sustain the construction companies like Turner. Another benefit enjoyed by the latter company is the fact that it has a strong local presence. Since it has been in operation from 1975, the firm uses this strong presence and relationship in order to market their services and get some business (Moran, 2006). Normally, most construction projects in Dubai and other parts of the UAE will invite bids. Assignment or selection of the right candidates to carry out the project will depend on a number of factors. However, the most crucial one is prevalence of a strong reputation in construction. This is even more of an advantage if the respective firm happens to have carried out those projects in the UAE. Turner enjoys such qualities and rarely has problems securing contracts. In terms of the kinds of services offered, this company has been having it easy because it has diversified into a range of provisions. It sometimes does construction c onsultancy. In certain situations, it may participate in contracting for its clients while in other scenarios it may actually be in charge of actual constructions. As stated earlier, the sound relationship or network created between several architects and contractors in the UAE market has made provision of these services quite smooth. In the end, the company has enjoyed and keeps enjoying a strong position in the sector. Normally, building materials are imported into the country. Therefore, construction companies must be in a position to access these markets in places like China. This may sometimes prove to be a challenge to the said company because imports are subjected to a range of tariffs and barriers (Dubai Chamber, 2009). In fact the need to have relationships and partners is what has made Turner what it is today. On the downside, government policy in the UAE has contributed towards some losses in this organisation because local construction companies are normally given a ten percent cut off on price over their foreign owned experts when importing products into the country. This acts as a serious disincentive for companies like Turner Construction Company. Conclusion The UAE is an ideal investment location because of its strong infrastructural base as well as the strong political and economic back up. On the other hand, there are certain barriers that companies witness and this has especially been revealed through the case study. This firm is hampered by the advantages offered to locals on imported construction materials as well as the vulnerability to international economic markets. References Alasaad, N. (2010). Investors looking to Dubai as the preferred FDI destination in MENA. Retrieved from zawya.com/pdfstory.cfm?storyid=ZAWYA20100629084415l=084400100629 Abu Dhabi Chamber of commerce and industry (2010). For new investors. Retrieved from abudhabichamber.ae/user/NodeId=915Page=1Edit=1#ARTICLE%20313%C2%A0 Abhu Dhabi government (2010). Opening a branc h of a foreign company in Abu Dhabi. Retrieved from http://business.abudhabi.ae/egovPoolPortal_WAR/appmanager/ADeGP/Business?_nfpb=true_pageLabel=P5800295121229247844294did=134980lang=en Turner Construction Company. (2010). Turner UAE. Retrieved from turnerconstruction.com/international/content.asp?d=3975p=3969 Dubai Chamber (2009). Foreign Direct Investment in Dubai. Chamber Economist, May 2009, 1-3 Moran, T. (2006). Harnessing foreign direct investment for development. Center for global development Razin, A. Sadka, E. (2007). Foreign direct investment: analysis of aggregate flows. Princeton: Princeton university press Bende Nabende, A. (2002). Globalisation, FDI, regional integration and sustainable development: theory, evidence and policy. NY: Routledge Dunning, J. (2002). Global capitalism, FDI and competitiveness. Oxford: OUP

Iconic projects are virtually certain to fail.Discuss; illustrate your Essay

Iconic projects are virtually certain to fail.Discuss; illustrate your answer with references to recently completed trophy projects - Essay Example es need to be appropriately addressed by managers of projects worldwide: ‘a) the project mission, b) the top management support and c) the project scheduling’ (Schultz et al., 1987 in Belassi et al., 1996, 142). If these issues are taken into consideration when designing and implementing a project then it can be expected that this project will be led to success. On the other hand, it is supported that the success or the failure of projects in modern market can be depended on many factors – different criteria could be also used in order to decide on the success or the failure of a particular project at any stage of its development. In accordance with Diallo et al. (2004, 21) ‘success can be evaluated only when the evaluation dimensions are adequately defined; a project is usually considered a success if its implementation complies with the usual constraints of time, cost and the client’s terms of reference or ‘‘quality’’â€⠄¢. The above description of a project’s success refers only to the general aspects of project success; there is no reference to the benefits that a project may offers to the parties involved – i.e. even if a project cannot be characterized as successful in terms of the achievement of its targets still it could offer benefits to its creators/ developers – referring to direct or even indirect benefits (e.g. increase of the quality of life of people of a specific area because of the development of a specific construction project – the above project may be left uncompleted or it could be use for a different reason than the one defined by its developers). The importance of project management for the improvement of many aspects of human life around the world could be possibly understood only by referring to specific projects and their benefits for people within the international community. The definition of project given by Gasper (2000) could help identify the general aspects of projects in modern market. In accordance with

Gay Marriage Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Gay Marriage - Research Paper Example Gay marriages should not be allowed and there should be no constitutional amendment to allow the gays and lesbians to obtain the legal marriage certificate. Gay marriage is an unnatural way of living. Had gay marriage been a natural way of living, gays would have been able to make babies from their relationship. Two people living together in a gay marriage contract cannot suffice each other’s emotional needs, even if they feel physically satisfied being together. Even if they happen to be satisfied both emotionally and physically, the connection may not last forever. Likewise, a woman needs the love of a man for concerns including and beyond physical satisfaction. A man is incomplete without a woman and vice versa. This can be estimated from the fact that no couple but the one comprising members of the opposite sex is able to produce children biologically. Gays are not able to produce children, so they can never experience what it feels like to be a parent. Although some gays tend to adopt a child, yet it has its own negative implications upon the adopted child as will be discussed later. Even if they do adopt children, they are never able to connect to them in a way they would have connected to their biological children owing to the fact that they know they are adopted and not their own children. â€Å"Popular stereotypes suggest either that lesbian and gay parents do not exist, or that children suffer irreparable harm if brought up in the households of lesbian or gay parents† (Patterson and Redding 29). From every aspect, life of a gay is unnatural. Gay marriage is an unreligious way of living. God has created everything for a purpose. Nothing has been made useless. Likewise, God has provided human beings with a system according to which they should live. Most of the religions, particularly the Abrahamic religions condemn the practice of homosexuality. Islam not only forbids gay marriage but also declares severe punishments for the people involv ing in this act. Religious scriptures provide accounts of God’s fury over the nations that have indulged in the practice of homosexuality in the past. Specifically, both Bible and Quran describe how the People of Lot (P.B.U.H.) were cursed and punished by God Almighty when they did not give up the practice of homosexuality despite repeated warnings made by the Prophet Lot (P.B.U.H.). â€Å"Scholars of shari’a, Islamic law, interpret homosexuality to be not merely a sin, but a crime as well† (Kligerman 54). We fundamentally derive our norms and values from religion. Had there been no religion, we would have had no guidelines to follow and there would be no means to judge whether a certain action was right or wrong. Since religion has prohibited us from indulging in the practice of homosexuality, there is no way we can justify the act. Legalization of gay marriage is essentially an offense of the religious teachings and violation of the religious principles. Gay m arriage is supported in the name of modernity and people who oppose gay marriage because they practice religion are said to be conservative and narrow minded. A vast majority of people who speak in favor of gay marriages have started to talk about religious principles as man made. With that being said, our fundamental beliefs are being challenged along with our belief in God. â€Å"A part of the cost of the voluntary but â€Å"