Paul Wolfowitz - Remarks at the 38th Verkunde Conference on Security Policy free essay sample

The Colonial Names of African States

The Colonial Names of African States After decolonization, state boundaries in Africa remained remarkably stable, but the colonial names of African states often changed. Explore a list of current African countries according to their former colonial names, with explanations of border changes and amalgamations of territories. Why Were Boundaries Stable Following Decolonization? In 1963, during the era of independence, the Organization of African Union agreed to a policy of inviolable borders, which dictated that colonial-era boundaries were to be upheld, with one caveat. Due to the French policy of governing their colonies as large federated territories, several countries were created out of each of Frances former colonies, using the old territorial boundaries for the new country boundaries. There were Pan-Africanist efforts to create federated states, like the Federation of Mali, but these all failed.​ The Colonial Names of Present-Day African States Africa, 1914 Africa, 2015 Independent States Abyssinia Ethiopia Liberia Liberia British Colonies Anglo-Egyptian Sudan Sudan, The Republic of the South Sudan Basutoland Lesotho Bechuanaland Botswana British East Africa Kenya, Uganda British Somaliland Somalia* The Gambia The Gambia Gold Coast Ghana Nigeria Nigeria Northern Rhodesia Zambia Nyasaland Malawi Sierra Leone Sierra Leone South Africa South Africa Southern Rhodesia Zimbabwe Swaziland Swaziland French Colonies Algeria Algeria French Equatorial Africa Chad, Gabon, Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic French West Africa Benin, Guinea, Mali, Ivory Coast, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Burkina Faso French Somaliland Djibouti Madagascar Madagascar Morocco Morocco (see note) Tunisia Tunisia German Colonies Kamerun Cameroon German East Africa Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi South West Africa Namibia Togoland Togo Belgian Colonies Belgian Congo Democratic Republic of the Congo Portuguese Colonies Angola Angola Portuguese East Africa Mozambique Portuguese Guinea Guinea-Bissau Italian Colonies Eritrea Eritrea Libya Libya Somalia Somalia (see note) Spanish Colonies Rio de Oro Western Sahara (disputed territory claimed by Morocco) Spanish Morocco Morocco (see note) Spanish Guinea Equatorial Guinea German Colonies After World War I, all of Germanys African colonies were taken away and made mandate territories by the League of Nations. This meant they were supposed to be prepared for independence by Allied powers, namely Britain, France, Belgium, and South Africa. German East Africa was divided between Britain and Belgium, with Belgium taking control over Rwanda and Burundi and Britain taking control of what was then called Tanganyika. After independence, Tanganyika united with Zanzibar and become Tanzania. German Kamerun was also larger than Cameroon is today, extending into what is today Nigeria, Chad, and the Central African Republic. Following World War I, most of German Kamerun went to France, but Britain also controlled the portion adjacent to Nigeria. At independence, the northern British Cameroons elected to join Nigeria, and the southern British Cameroons joined Cameroon. German South West Africa was controlled by South Africa until 1990. Somalia The country of Somalia is comprised of what were formerly Italian Somaliland and British Somaliland. Morroco Moroccos borders are still disputed. The country is made up primarily of two separate colonies, French Morocco and Spanish Morocco. Spanish Morocco lay on the northern coast, near the Straight of Gibralter, but Spain also had two separate territories (Rio de Oro and Saguia el-Hamra) just south of French Morocco. Spain merged these two colonies into Spanish Sahara in the 1920s, and in 1957 ceded much of what had been Saguia el-Hamra to Morocco. Morocco continued to claim the southern portion as well and in 1975 seized control of the territory. The United Nations recognizes the southern portion, often called Western Sahara, as a non-self-governing territory. The African Union recognizes it as the sovereign state Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), but the SADR only controls a portion of the territory known as Western Sahara.

The Portrayal of Brazil in the U.S. News Media Thesis

The Portrayal of Brazil in the U.S. News Media - Thesis Example This is the major reason for choosing this subject matter as a research topic. Related to the image of Brazil portrayed by the US news media, several literatures have been published having strong influences on the public opinion. For instance, as stated by Paulo Sotero in one of his literatures, â€Å"historically, the United States has been disproportionately more relevant for Brazil than Brazil has been for the United States† (Sotero, 2007, pp. 3). This statement evidently depicts the relationship between the two economies with due consideration to the influence of the news media. In another news publication by BBC, it was quoted that Brazil is the biggest democratic country and economic giant and is South America’s most significant country (BBC, 2010). A literature published by Dr. Lucas (2002) reveals that The United Sates of America and Brazil are known to be the two most prosperous and stable nations in the region of America. These two nations share common nationa l interests relating to prosperity and security. The two countries often emerge to be moving in parallel direction or are odds with one other despite sharing superior bilateral relations (Lucas, 2002). As depicted by Robert M Levine and John J Crocitti in the Brazil Reader: History, Culture, and Politics, according to the information collected by Mr. Turner Catledge of the New York Times states that the country (Brazil) was not a fascist country. There was a false presentation of Brazil as a fascist country in the US. The US news media presented certain information about Brazil that generated a view about Brazil in a different way. There was news that in Brazil there was no liberty of speech and freedom of press. The newspapers presented strong and denunciatory articles based upon politics of Brazil (Levine & Crocitti, 1999). The US and Brazil shared better relationship before the World War II and there were lots of news about the Brazilian political and economical issues in the US media that portrayed different views of Brazil in the US economy. For instance, there were controversies relating to the Brazilian Government’s formation of relationship with the other nations in order to gain benefits especially with the Asian nations. During the Cold War period, the bilateral relations between the US and Brazil was under the immense pressure due to the articles that were published in the US media, which apparently notes the influence of news media in portraying the image of an economy (Arnson & Sotero, 2010). The new President of Brazil, Mr. Fernando Henrique Cardoso in the year 1995 had been in the media for the policies of this government in order to develop the Brazilian economy. The President not only established relationships with various nations but also engaged economical and political links with the neighboring countries within South America (Arnson & Sotero, 2010). The news about the new President of Brazil had high influence in the other nations o f South America. The publication about the political leaders of South America was a controversial subject in the US media. There were several reports and publications that were published by the different renowned US media agencies. The validity of certain reports was not known and was subject to critics (Arnson & Sotero, 2010). Inclusively, Mr. Rubens Antonio Barbosa, Brazil’s Ambassador to the US, during the year of 2000 in acknowledgment to Congress, stated about the desires and

Business continuity management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Business continuity management - Essay Example BCM programs and plans are a part of risk management and emergency operations on the government level. At the beginning of the 21st century, government promotes new programs and policies aimed to protect all spheres of business and population. These decisions can have multiple influences and affects on the lives of civilians involved in the incident and the lives of rescuers, the lives of managers operating in the BCM system and population in general (Chandler, Wallace, 2004). Even seemed insignificant element of data that is missed or resource not assigned, a division or task force assigned to the wrong area or not tracked properly has resulted in catastrophic consequences for the entire population and business activities. For this reason, BCM supports considerably the development of improved accountability system for tracking personnel and resources, ministries and business agencies. Perception of the threat is a significant motivating principle for government, however, it influenc es the pace, nature, and extent of development and implementation of security policy and measures. The principle of the rule of law has been, and remains, a constant in current BCM policy. To promote and implement BCM programs, government introduces BCP (plans) for b

National Government Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

National Government - Essay Example The Constitution as the supreme law of the land empowers the government to the legal rights to control the operation of the businesses. There has been a rise in government regulation with time. Still, the business community has considerate freedom of action. Understanding the US Government business relations requires acquaintance with the characteristics of the economy itself. The United States has a well-diversified economy with an industrial base. It is a capitalist type of economy with bantam public enterprises and lots of privately owned corporations. The success of the economy is due to control rather than the ownership by the government. These corporations are far-reaching in search for markets, operating in openness, and judicial processes take a center stage in conflict resolution. Great respect is however owed to the existing legal and economic structures (Porter, 3) The government regulation is licensing and permission. Enterprises are required to be registered to start operations. The US also has a large number of corporations who, as a prerequisite, require a charter to commence operations. The same is required for the partnerships and limited liability companies. The policy makers, therefore, monitor the operation of these enterprises. The US economy experienced a total economic change in last three decades. In the 1974 Summit Conference on Inflation, thirty prominent economists made a report to the then President Ford together with the congressmen. The report gave strong recommendations to enhance the economy. These included restructuring pricing and doing away with obsolete legislations that resulted in inefficiency. These policies helped develop and strengthen the banking, transportation, telecommunications and insurance sectors (Porter, 10). In 1789, George Washingtons farewell speech had one important message concerning US foreign policy, "avoid entangling alliances". To some, these words were wise,

Comparison Of The Eu And Asean Regional System Politics Essay

Comparison Of The Eu And Asean Regional System Politics Essay The Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, stated: The EU and ASEAN are two successful examples of regional integration in the world [] ASEANs integration is advancing. It is developing its institutions and organise experience.  [1]  Todays new regionalism intends to provide solutions to developmental problems, but many believe that these problems are also the source of many internal conflicts. This new regionalism is based on territorial size and economies of scale as the traditional one, but it also explains new fears from the new century.  [2]  The European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are seen as examples, because both of them are part of the regionalism approach.  [3]   Some academics consider the EU as a world model in miniature or even as a blueprint for other regions,  [4]  while others believe that this model can be transferred to areas such as the ASEAN. Thus, the European Commission (EC) has stated that the EU supports those regions that want to emulate us.  [5]  However, many non-Europeans have insisted on how difficult it is to transfer the European model, because of the disparities in their history and socio-cultural background, their values and ideas, rule of law,  [6]  degree of institutionalization, objectives and praxis, and so on.  [7]   Despite these differences, there are some commonalities; for instance, both regions emphasize integrity and respect of national sovereignty. Although, they differ in level and channels, the European region applies the subsidiarity concept, while the Asian area believes in the principle of non-interference. In addition, both regions must tackle the new concept of security, like growth, stability, poverty alleviation, uncontrolled migration flows, energy, climate change, etc., based on their historical development, systemic geopolitical and economic constraints, and finally their domestic organisation and consensus.  [8]  For this reason, the analysis of issues, such as the uncontrolled flows of migrations in ASEAN and the EU, would increase our understanding of the different measures adopted in many areas as well as the features of their integration. At this initial point, some questions arise: how can we compare the different regionalization processes? To what extent is it interesting to compare these two regions? Is new regionalism an opportunity to solve social problems? Thus, the goal of this research is to understand their commonalities and divergences of these two regions based on two episodes at sea involving immigrants. These episodes are not referred to the political or economical field as they used to be; by contrast, they are based on immigration policy. I chose this example because it also reflects degrees of integration, relation with social policies, human rights, and international law. It is not only a good example to understand their different integration processes, but it is also a polemic situation for both regions. This study is divided into five sections. The first section will introduce the theoretical framework in which this study is supported. The second one will examine selected cases about immigration problems in the area of the Mediterranean coast within the EU area. The third section will explain the problems involved with the Burmese refugees in the South East coast within the ASEAN framework. The fourth part will compare both integration processes. These cases will help to exemplify the differences and similarities of both regions, and at the same time, they will allow us to explore how effective are regional systems to benefit or protect their population. Finally, the conclusion will open doors for further research and improvement in the systems. 2. Theoretical framework Different theoretical approaches have been applied for this kind of studies. On one hand, realist, constructivist and liberal approaches have been applied for the study of the role of ideas and interests.  [9]  For instance, the constructivist approach states that in heterogeneous and newly formed regional groupings interregionalism may stimulate regional identity-building.  [10]  The realist approach, however, highlights power and balances as essential characteristics of inter- and transregional relations  [11]  . On the other hand, in the last two decades new theoretical approaches have been developed, namely globalisation and regionalisation.  [12]   Globalization is part of a process of internalization, and it is related to governance, since it implies the need to find alternatives for sustainable development, efficient and transparent government, as well as civic participation. Moreover, it has respected the rule of law and a system of rights.  [13]  Many scholars understand it as a reform of the international system since the end of the Cold War,  [14]  a phenomenon which in some way undermines the power of the states and their territorial dimension. Some governments are reluctant to reduce the impact of globalization to protect their territorial control. Regionalism is thus one of the best formulas,  [15]  because Some issues can best be handled at the regional level among states that are heavily involved in overlapping interests.  [16]  Although the traditional economic model, through its dialogue and cooperation  [17]  in economy, trade  [18]  and binding arrangements  [19]  among States, has fav oured regionalism as a means of stabilizing the area, some scholars have emphasized a series of differences which are significant for the development of this paper: Old regionalism New regionalism Formed in a bipolar Cold War system Formed in a multipolar world Created from above (superpower intervention) Spontaneous process from the regions. Need of cooperation to tackle new global challenges Inward oriented and protectionist in economic terms Open, compatible with an interdependent world economy Specific objectives Comprehensive, multidimensional process Concerned with relations among nation states Global structural transformation, non-state actors are active and operating at several levels. Harmonization of trade policies leading to deeper economic integration, with political integration as a possible future result. Transformation of a region from relative heterogeneity to increased homogeneity in regard to: culture, security, economic policies and political regimes. Source: Own elaboration (based on Bjà ¶rn Hettne, Globalization, the new regionalism, and East Asia) The New regionalism expanded the regional framework beyond European borders. Today, ASEAN has become the second most advanced regional system,  [20]  and its general purposes are: (1) to secure peace; (2) to provide external security; (3) to carry out economic tasks; (4) to address environmental issues; and (5) to secure human rights.  [21]  Brian Dai argued that the EU is the best example to demonstrate that regional integration is the best solution to regional peace and security as well as bringing common welfare to the population.  [22]   European integration: the case of immigrants at sea and their rights The EU is the oldest regional system; although it is still changing, not only in structure, but also deepening its policies, it is a unique supranational institutional entity with specific characteristics: (1) collective memory of the devastation of WW II; (2) overcrowded region in terms of population and the number of states; (3) similar political system; (4) alike social welfare systems; and (5) relatively similar culture and religion.  [23]   In 2004, the Hague programme, called Strengthening Freedom, Security and Justice in the EU, was adopted; it is based on one of the main objectives of the EU: to create an area of freedom, security and justice. It adopted common legislative instruments and improvement of coordination of national policies, practical cooperation, and regular information exchange between Member States (MSs) and the Commission.  [24]  In this context, it is important to clarify the definition of illegal immigration given by the Commission: it includes third-country nationals who enter the territory of a MS illegally by land, sea and air.  [25]   MSs accepted to create a common immigration policy at EU level. The Commissions proposals had become EU legislation; in 2005 a debate was re-launched with the Green Paper on an EU approach to managing economic migration; later that year, a Policy Plan on Legal Migration was adopted listing the actions and legislative initiatives. In September 2007, the Commission presented the Third Annual Report on Migration and Integration, which monitors the process of admission and integration of third-country immigrants in the EU.  [26]   The EU developed a Global Approach to migration which supports general principles such as subsidiarity, solidarity, human rights, fundamental freedoms, access to asylum, and Geneva Convention,  [27]  thourgh which foster cooperation with third countries, particularly in the Mediterranean. This approach is within the European Neighbourhood Policy framework through bilateral dialogues. However, the approach and adoption of those general principles sought to be endured by strong political committeemen, particularly because resources should be mobilised to fight smuggling and trafficking networks, and protect the immigrants asking for asylum.  [28]   There are some cases described below in which immigrants have been found in waters of the Mediterranean sea. Initially, they were not rescued because of MSs national interests. Additionally, many other cases have been reported during recent years.  [29]   The first case took place in May 2007: an Italian news agency informed that 27 men coming from Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Sudan, Ivory Coast, Niger, Senegal and Togo asked for help to a Maltese trawlers tuna fish pen, Budafel. The ship-owner did not provide assistance to the immigrants. In the meantime, Maltese and Libyan authorities were engaged in diplomatic dialogues to clarify who had to take responsibility for the immigrants; the Italian Coastguard was notified about the incident and took the responsibility for them.  [30]   The second case also was in May 2007: 26 people were recued by the Spanish tug Monfalco. This boat was between Libya and Malta waters. The ship-owner did not have space on board for all the immigrants, but Maltese authorities refused to allow the people to disembark. The Spanish government thus made the decision to bring them to Spain. They claimed that they could be possible applicants who appear to have come from the Ivory Coast, a country at war.  [31]  However, this humanitarian argument is not always used by the Spanish government, as was the case of the two ships Marine I and Happy Day. In both cases, Maltese authorities did not rescue the immigrants or arrange a safety place. Although there always is another side of the coin and Maltese officials declared and provided documents to defend themselves from these accusations. Despite this fact, Maltese authorities knew that Libya had not ratified the 1951 Geneva Convention, thus their practices towards immigrants or asylum seekers did not respect their rights. For this reason, Malta government violated art. 2 and 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), art. 33 of the Geneva Convention, art. 3 of the UN Convention against Torture and art. 7 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In addition, Malta authorities also infringed the International Maritime Legislation, which is related to the non refoulement principle.  [32]   These incidents prompted the Council to discuss a system of sharing responsibilities (COREPER).  [33]  In May 2008, COREPER drafted Return Directive, which stated that MSs were not obliged to assist the immigrants without legal costs. It was adopted by the European Parliament (EP) and Council at the end of the year, covering common standards and procedures for returning illegal immigrants.  [34]  The same year, the Joint Operation Nautilus was launched, which enhanced the control in Mediterranean borders.  [35]   By contrast, the EP did not share the same opinion and declared that MSs should respect the International Law on Human Rights, Asylum and Refugee Law, and ECHR, and that new legislation should be passes to fill the holes in the current law,  [36]  especially on the the rescue and detention operations of the immigrants.  [37]   4. ASEAN integration ASEAN integration started with abstract ideas, asymmetric national interests and competing for hegemony and born within a communist threat period.  [38]  Its members wanted to establish a new period outside the Cold War paradigm. The ASEAN was not created to solve conflicts among members, but rather to become a forum based on the non-interference principle where members could discuss issues not related with sensitive matters.  [39]   In this context, a new concept appears to support the economic integration, Confucian capitalism, but after the financial crisis in 1997 it lost supporters.  [40]  However, the economic integration originally was not the aim, a growing global competition forced ASEAN should pay more attention to these issues.  [41]  After the Free Trade Area (AFTA) was created, their cooperation has been deeper and covers service, finance, investment and monetary sectors.  [42]  Some scholars agree that ASEAN+3 process is even a more important and complex cooperation than ASEAN itself.  [43]  In 1998, during the 6th ASEAN Summit, the Hanoi Plan of Action (HPA) was adopted promoting social development. The same year, ASEAN ministers on Rural Development and Poverty Eradication established the Action Plan on Social Safety Nets in Jakarta.  [44]   During the 3rd Meeting of ASEAN, Maung Htay, ASEAN Director-General of Immigration Department, stated that an improvement of the cooperation on immigration issues was required and accepted the idea of creating an Ad hoc High Level Experts Group on immigration issues organized in the Philippines 2000. In addition, Htay also declared that ASEAN Vision 2020 and HPA will contribute to conduct this matter.  [45]  Steps forward were undertaken when, during the 6th Meeting, a work programme was launched entailing practical initiatives and measures, and also the Plan of Action established in the Philippines 2000.  [46]  Moreover, in October 2007, during the 6th ASEAN Peoples Assembly (APA), the question of Myanmar and human rights was tackled, and the implications of the Human Rights Body in the ASEAN Charter, were discussed.  [47]   The situation of refugees and human rights are of concern, especially the Karen or Karenni, a Muslim ethnic group in Burma. Thailand shares about 2000 km of border with Burma with a great flow of refugees,  [48]  and around 140.000 refugees live in nine camps in Thailand,  [49]  a situation shared by countries like Malaysia, Bangladesh and India. The subhuman conditions of these refugees is complicated, because new generations have been born in the camps and they are forbidden to leave,  [50]  and suffer harasment and abuses from smugglers, detention, discrimination.  [51]  The Thai government, however, pays no attention to international organizations and wants to send them back to Myanmar, allowing no more boats to disembark on its coasts.  [52]  The main problem is that neither Thailand nor other asylum countries for Burmese refugees had not signed the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees or the 1967 Protocol.  [53]  To them, refugees are illegal immigrants.  [5 4]   ASEAN has a policy of constructive engagement, but it is more complex since it has semi-supporters as China and India, interested in its natural resources. ASEAN members failed to tackle this question in March 2009,  [55]  and in the Bali Process in Indonesia. The issue was not discussed at the plenary session or in the concluding statement.  [56]  The Working Group for ASEAN Human Rights Mechanism remind the Myanmar Government that it should respect the fundamental rights of its citizens. It also recalls that its entrance in 1997 compromised a long-term plan towards democratization. In fact, Myanmar has to achieve the ASEAN Vision 2010 as well, in which its Working Group declared, a peaceful and stable Southeast Asia, where the causes for conflict have been eliminated through abiding respect for justice and the rule of law.  [57]   Comparison This comparison is based on Bà ¶rzells model  [58]  in which similarities and differences in regard to values and identity, institutional design, nature of rules, domestic level actors, and conflicts among them are identified. This section will discuss the differences which are subdivided into five components: ideas, institutionalization, domestic level, political field, and economic field. The cases we saw above illustrate these disparities and similitudes and this comparison should shed some light to better understand the reactions, mechanisms, channels, behaviours, further steps, etc. Similarities Despite controversial opinions, the EU and ASEAN have several similarities, which have been pointed out by Underhill.  [59]  But in spite of these similarities, Park and Kim  [60]  added that both regions have a sense of Community and experienced similar difficulties during the current financial crisis, while some academics would rather suggest that the ASEAN Economic Community is an idea inspired by the EEC and expressed in similar wording.  [61]   Both regions had to tackle similar security issues which raise new challenges. A holistic approach is required in order to face these new matters, and particularly to enhance immigration law and cooperation. The differences can be observed in the following figure (Franck et al., pp. 306-307): Differences Ideas European Union ASEAN After WW II, ideas generated by politicians Today politicians + intellectuals + society Project based on idealistic concepts from intellectuals France and Germany alliance China and Japan still working Germany recognized its war crimes Japan did not recognized them: reluctant to join ASEAN+3, proposals ASEAN+6 Horrors of WW II, origin of the integration in Europe Members do not have a common history Clear concept of Europe 27  [62]   Unclear concept of Asia: lack of clearly defined borders, common culture and religion Western values: democracy, respect of universal human rights, rule of law. They are codified and legally-binding Asian identity, Asian family, Asian Values: community, capitalism, and relativism Decoded and not legally-binding Identity based on 50 years of integration Asianism based on Sino-center world, protectionist tendencies, for centuries Cleavages based on social welfare between west and east are decreasing. There are not latent conflicts Strong cleavages based on ideology maintain latent conflicts between north and south EU is a contiguous landmass It is an enormous archipelago: difficulties for contacts, transport, mobility, etc. Source: Own elaboration based on the following authors: Kim, Berkofsky, Park Kim, Rà ¼land, Franck, Defraigne, Moriamà © et al. Institutionalization EU ASEAN High level institutionalization Low level institutionalization Common institutions built on treaties and rule of law. E.g. OSCE, Council, ECHR, etc. No common institutions built on voluntary commitments and weaker tradition of law. E.g. APEC, ASEM, ASF Democratic structure precondition for integration Network-style: interpersonal and informal relations US supported integration multilateralism US did/do not support integration, preference of bilateralism Philosophy: more complex issues, deeper institutionalization Philosophy: informal contacts and negotiations Alliances between official and civilian actors Civilian organizations started to be involve Lessons: formal and informal practices should coexist as well as strict and flexible tools Source: Own elaboration based on the following authors: Dong Heidul, Cuyvers, Berkofsky, Park Kim, Franck, Defraigne, Moriamà © et al. Domestic Level EU ASEAN Strong normative principles Need a set of normative principles, e.g. Myanmar is not only about HR Mix of Supranational and Intergovernmental structure: Commission (propose), Council and EP (pass or reject), and MS implement or sanction. Intergovernmental structure Decision-making process: unanimity, co-decision, assent, consultation Decision-making process: consensus and unanimity Harmonisation with strict legal basis Building harmonization, not legal basis Treaties Agreements Charter adopted 2007: propose framework and legal foundation, restructure mechanisms and improve decision-making process. Strengthen institutions.  [63]   Source: Own elaboration based on the following authors: Underhill, Laursen, Franck, Defraigne, Moriamà © et al. Political field EU ASEAN Far from a single political actor, but some consistency High level of fragmentation MS pool sovereignty in some areas = EU disposes deeper and more powerful mechanism of solidarity MS reluctant to pool sovereignty = national approach = less mechanism European Structural Funds Sub-regional cooperation, e.g. Informal and facilitated by ADB, who supplies technical, administrative and logistical support Fixed exchange rate system on macro-economic solidarity. E.g. wealthier countries support weaker Floating exchange rate system on macro-economic solidarity. E.g. contribution to erode social attainments Free movement of goods, services, people, labour, etc. Not free movement: goods, labour, etc. Social policies and cooperation: European Social Fund. Subsidiarity principle Lisbon Treaty sets up a social agenda, but not concrete progress National approach, far away from the development of social policies. Some actions: 1998, Hanoi Plan Action: poverty reduction 1998, Action Plan on Social Safety Nets Source: Own elaboration based on the following authors: Underhill, Laursen, Park Kim, Ruelan, and Cuyvers. Economic field EU ASEAN Monetary Union Single market unclear notion, especially for business and consumers Transparent and accountable financial and banking system Need to create transparent and accountable financial and banking system EU relies on its own institutions Need to rely on non-ASEAN institutions, e.g. 1992, ADB assisted Greater Mekong Sub-region for economic cooperation Successful EMU: needs political willingness EU is the only successful single market AFTA is still unclear, deadline 2010. AEC is far away from the EU single market, e.g. it does not have common external tariff policy to create customs union. It has two main preconditions: high level of economic integration and independent judicial institutions Custom Union, no need of border inspection Need border inspection, restrictions. European Monetary Union 1999: weak mechanism due to the monetarist mandate of the ECB Chiang Mai Initiative  [64]  of ASEAN+3: creation of a network of bilateral swap arrangements Exchange rate fixed and stable influences financial integration Exchange rate volatility, e.g. during financial crisis caused more economic problems, reduced economic growth. Source: Own elaboration based on the following authors: Laursen, Dong Heidul, Plummer, Underhill, Berkofsky, and European Policy Center. Conclusion As we have seen along the paper, regional organisations are important for the international system and embrace a multilateral approach, which tries to solve problems with different means other than military solutions. Regionalism is a good formula to provid

Gods Forgiveness in Taylors Meditation 42 Essay -- Edward Taylor Poe

In Edward Taylor's "Meditation 42," the speaker employs a tone of both desire and anxiousness in order to convey the overall idea that man's sinful nature and spiritual unworthiness require God's grace and forgiveness to gain entrance to the kingdom of heaven. In the opening stanza, the speaker describes the human craving and longing for material objects. From the very first word of "Meditation 42," a sense of longing and desire infuses the poem as "apples" (ll. 1) often symbolize both temptation and desire. Because Eve allowed the lure of attaining the God's knowledge to overtake her in the book of Genesis, she bites from a fruit on the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil which is commonly depicted as an apple. In addition, because the "apples" allude to man's fall from paradise they thereby represent man's imperfection and sinful nature. Furthermore, the fact that "apples of gold in silver pictures shrined" (ll. 1) emphasizes the desire or lust for physical, material items of beauty and wealth. These items "enchant" (ll. 2) as the "gold" and "silver" appeal to mankind's covetous nature and tendency to value superficial items. Thus, the speaker conveys his longing and desire for physical riches which "enchant" him. Yet his want for treasures exist as strictly human desire, causing physical consequences as they "make mouths to water" (ll. 2). However, despite the monetary value of precious metals, attaining such superficial items does not allow man to gain any true fulfillment. For example, in the opening stanza, all the treasures "In jasper cask, when tapped, doth briskly vapor" (ll. 4). The material items mean nothing in the larger scheme of the world and therefore "briskly vapor" and disapp... ..., but still pleads for God to "take me in" (ll. 41), and promises to "pay...in happiness" for mercy. Once again, the speaker demonstrates the same desires for physical treasures that he expresses in the first stanza as he asks God to "give mine eye / A peephole there to see bright glory's chases" (ll. 39-40). Even in the God's kingdom, the speaker reveals his humanity as he focuses on ornamentation which starkly contrasts with God's divinity as He has the ability to show love even for sinners. Thus, while man shows his human nature, desiring and coveting physical riches and treasures, God demonstrates his truly divine nature as he possesses true spiritual riches, in the form of love, mercy, and forgiveness. Works Cited Taylor, Edward. â€Å"Meditation 42.† The Heath Anthology of American Literature. Ed. Paul Lautier. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004

The Hunters: Phantom Chapter 11

Elena hung up the phone. She and Bonnie had discussed everything that was going on, from the mysterious appearance of Celia's and Meredith's names to Margaret's upcoming dance recital. But she hadn't been able to bring up what she had real y cal ed to talk about. She sighed. After a moment, she felt under her mattress and pul ed out her velvet-covered journal. Dear Diary, This afternoon, I talked with Caleb Smallwood on the front lawn of my house. I barely know him, yet I feel this visceral connection with him. I love Bonnie and Meredith more than life itself, but they have no idea what it's like to lose your parents, and that puts a space between us. I see myself in Caleb. He's so handsome and seems so carefree. I'm sure most people think his life is perfect. I know what it's like to pretend to have it together, even when you're coming apart. It can be the loneliest thing in the world. I hope he has a Bonnie or a Meredith of his own, a friend he can lean on. The strangest thing happened while we were talking. A crow flew straight at us. It was a big crow, one of the biggest I've ever seen, with iridescent black feathers that shone in the sun and a huge hooked beak and claws. It might have been the same one that appeared on my windowsill yesterday morning, but I wasn't sure. Who can tell crows apart? And, of course, both the crows reminded me of Damon, who watched me as a crow before we even met. What's strange – ridiculous, really – is this dawning feeling of hope I have deep inside me. What if, I keep thinking, what if somehow Damon's not dead after all? And then the hope collapses, because he is dead, and I need to face that. If I want to stay strong I can't lie to myself. I can't make up pretty fairy tales where the noble vampire doesn't die, where the rules get changed because it's someone I care about. But that hope comes sneaking up on me again: What if? It would be too cruel to say anything about the crow to Stefan. His grief has changed him. Sometimes, when he's quiet, I catch a strange look in his leaf green eyes, like there's someone I don't know in there. And I know he's thinking of Damon, thoughts that take him somewhere I can't follow anymore. I thought I could tell Bonnie about the crow. She cared about Damon, and she wouldn't laugh at me for wondering whether there were some way he might still, in some form, be alive. Not after she suggested the very same thing earlier today. At the last minute, though, I couldn't talk to her about it. I know why, and it's a lousy, selfish, stupid reason: I'm jealous of Bonnie. Because Damon saved her life. Awful, right? Here's the thing: For a long time, out of millions, there was one human Damon cared about. Only one. And that one person was me. Everyone else could go to hell as far as he was concerned. He could barely remember my friends' names. But something changed between Damon and Bonnie, maybe when they were alone in the Dark Dimension together, maybe earlier. She's always had a little crush on him, when he wasn't being cruel, but then he started to take notice of his little redbird. He watched her. He was tender with her. And when she was in danger, he moved to save her without a second thought as to what it might cost him. So I'm jealous. Because Damon saved Bonnie's life. I'm a terrible person. But, because I am so terrible, I don't want to share any more of Damon with Bonnie, not even my thoughts about the crow. I want to keep part of him just for me. Elena reread what she had written, her lips pressed tightly together. She wasn't proud of her feelings, but she couldn't deny they existed. She leaned back on her pil ow. It had been a long, exhausting day, and now it was one o'clock in the morning. She'd said good night to Aunt Judith and Robert a couple of hours ago, but she didn't seem to be able to make it into bed. She'd just puttered around after changing into her nightdress: brushing her hair, rearranging some of her possessions, flipping through a magazine, looking with satisfaction at the fashionable wardrobe she hadn't had access to in months. Cal ing Bonnie. Bonnie had sounded odd. Distracted, maybe. Or perhaps just tired. It was late, after al . Elena was tired, too, but she didn't want to go to sleep. She final y admitted it to herself: She was a little afraid to go to sleep. Damon had been so real in her dream the other night. His body had felt firm and solid as she held him; his silky black hair had been soft against her cheek. His smooth voice had sounded sarcastic, seductive, and commanding by turns, just like the living Damon's. When she had remembered, with a sickening horror, that he was gone, it had been as if he had died al over again. But she couldn't stay awake forever. She was so tired. Elena switched off the light and closed her eyes. She was sitting on the creaky old bleachers in the school gym. The air smel ed of sweaty athletic shoes and the polish they used on the wooden floor. â€Å"This is where we met,† said Damon, who she now realized was sitting beside her, so close the sleeve of his leather jacket brushed her arm. â€Å"Romantic,† Elena replied, raising one eyebrow and looking around the big empty room, the basketbal hoops hanging at each end. â€Å"I try,† Damon said, a tinge of a laugh coloring his dry voice. â€Å"But you chose where we are. It's your dream.† â€Å"Is it a dream?† Elena asked suddenly, turning to study his face. â€Å"It doesn't feel like one.† â€Å"Wel ,† he said, â€Å"let me put it this way. We're not actual y here.† His face was serious and intent as he gazed back at her, but then he flashed one of his sudden, bril iant smiles and his eyes slid away. â€Å"I'm glad we didn't have gymnasiums like this when I did my studies,† he said casual y, stretching out his legs in front of him. â€Å"It seems so undignified, with the shorts and the rubber bal s.† â€Å"Stefan said that you played sports then, though,† Elena said, distracted despite herself. Damon frowned at Stefan's name. â€Å"Never mind,† she said hastily. â€Å"We might not have much time. Please, Damon, please, you said you're not here, but are you anywhere? Are you al right? Even if you're dead†¦ I mean real y dead, dead for good, are you somewhere?† He looked at her sharply. His mouth twisted a little as he said, â€Å"Does it matter that much to you, princess?† â€Å"Of course it does,† Elena said, shocked. Her eyes were fil ing with tears. His tone was light, but his eyes, so black she couldn't tel where the iris ended and the pupil began, were watchful. â€Å"Everyone else – al your friends – this town – they're al okay, though, aren't they? You have your world back. There are such things as col ateral damages you have to expect if you're going to get what you want.† Elena could tel from Damon's expression that what she said next would matter dreadful y. And, in her heart of hearts, hadn't she admitted to herself the other day that, as much as she loved Damon, things were better now, that everything could be good again with the town saved and her returned to her old life? And that she wanted it that way, even if it meant Damon was dead? That Damon was what he said: collateral damage? â€Å"Oh, Damon,† she said at last, helplessly. â€Å"I just miss you so much.† Damon's face softened and he reached for her. â€Å"Elena – â€Å" â€Å"Yes?† Elena murmured. â€Å"Elena?† A hand was gently shaking her. â€Å"Elena?† Someone stroked her hair, and Elena nuzzled sleepily into the touch. â€Å"Damon?† she said, stil half dreaming. The hand paused in its stroking and then withdrew. She opened her eyes. â€Å"Just me, I'm afraid,† said Stefan. He was sitting next to her on her bed, his mouth a straight, tight line, his eyes averted. â€Å"Oh, Stefan,† said Elena, sitting up and throwing her arms around him. â€Å"I didn't mean – â€Å" â€Å"It's al right,† Stefan said flatly, turning away from her. â€Å"I know what he meant to you.† Elena pul ed him toward her and looked up into his face. â€Å"Stefan. Stefan.† His green eyes had a distant expression. â€Å"I'm sorry,† she said pleadingly. â€Å"You have nothing to apologize for, Elena,† he said. â€Å"Stefan, I was dreaming about Damon,† she confessed. â€Å"You're right, Damon was important to me, and I†¦ miss him.† A muscle twitched at the side of Stefan's face, and she stroked his jaw. â€Å"I wil never love anyone more than I love you, Stefan. It would be impossible. Stefan,† she said, feeling like she might cry, â€Å"you're my true love, you know that.† If only she could reach out and show him with her mind, make him understand what she felt for him. She'd never ful y explored her other Powers, never ful y claimed them, but losing their telepathic connection felt like it might kil her. Stefan's expression softened. â€Å"Oh, Elena,† he said slowly, and wrapped his arms around her. â€Å"I miss Damon, too.† He buried his face in her hair and his next words were muffled. â€Å"I've spent hundreds of years fighting with my only brother, with us hating each other. We killed each other when we were human, and I don't think either of us ever got over the guilt and the shock, the horror of that moment.† She felt a long shudder go through his body. He sighed, a soft, sad sound. â€Å"And when we final y started to find our way back to being brothers again, it was al because of you.† His forehead stil resting on her shoulder, Stefan took Elena's hand and held it between both of his, turning it over and stroking it as he thought. â€Å"He died so suddenly. I guess I never expected†¦ I never expected Damon to die before I did. He was always the strong one, the one who truly loved life. I feel†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He smiled a little, just a sad twist of his lips. â€Å"I feel†¦ surprisingly lonely without him.† Elena entwined her fingers with Stefan's and held his hand tightly. He turned his face toward hers, meeting her eyes, and she pul ed back a little so she could see him more clearly. There was pain in his eyes, and grief, but there was also a hardness she had never seen there before. She kissed him, trying to erase that hard edge. He resisted her for half a second, and then he kissed her back. â€Å"Oh, Elena,† he said thickly, and kissed her again. As the kiss deepened, Elena felt a sweet, satisfying sense of rightness sweep through her. It was always like this: If she felt distanced from Stefan, the touch of their lips could unite them. She felt a wave of love and wonder from him, and held on to it, feeding the emotion back to him, the tenderness between them growing. With her Powers gone, she needed this more than ever. She reached out with her mind and emotions, past the tenderness, past the rock-solid love that was always waiting for her in Stefan's kiss, and delved deeper into his mind. There was a fierce passion there, and she returned it, their emotions twining together, as their hands held each other harder. Beneath the passion, there was grief, a terrible, endless grief, and farther stil , buried in the depths of Stefan's emotions, was an aching loneliness, the loneliness of a man who had lived for centuries without companionship. And in that loneliness was the taste of something unfamiliar. Something†¦ unyielding and cold and faintly metal ic, as if she had bitten into foil. There was something Stefan was holding back from her. Elena was sure of it, and she reached deeper into his mind as their kisses intensified. She needed al of him†¦ She started to pul back her hair, to offer him her blood. That always brought them as close as they could possibly be. But before he could accept her offer, there was a sudden knock on the door. Almost immediately it opened and Aunt Judith peeked in. Elena, blinking, found herself alone, her palms stinging from the speed with which Stefan had pul ed away from her. She looked around hastily, but he'd vanished. â€Å"Breakfast is on the table, Elena,† Aunt Judith said cheerful y. â€Å"Uh-huh,† Elena said, distracted, peering at the closet, wondering where Stefan had hidden himself. â€Å"Are you al right, dear?† her aunt said, her forehead creased with concern. Elena had a sudden picture of how she must look: wide-eyed, flushed, and disheveled, sitting in her rumpled bed and looking wildly around the room. It had been a long time since Stefan had needed to use his vampiric speed for anything as mundane as not getting caught in her bedroom! She gave Aunt Judith a reassuring smile. â€Å"Sorry, I'm stil half-asleep. I'l be right down,† she said. â€Å"I'd better hurry. Stefan wil be here to pick me up soon.† As Aunt Judith left the room, Elena final y caught sight of Stefan, waving from the lawn below her open window, and she waved back, laughing, the strange emotions at the bottom of Stefan's mind put aside for the moment. He gestured that he was going around to the front of the house and that he would see her in a minute. She laughed again and jumped up to get ready for the picnic at Hot Springs. It was nice to be the kind of girl who worried about getting grounded. It felt†¦ pleasurably normal. A few minutes later, as Elena, now dressed in shorts and a light blue T-shirt, her hair pul ed back in a ponytail, headed down the stairs, the doorbel rang. â€Å"That'l be Stefan,† she cal ed as Aunt Judith appeared in the kitchen doorway. Elena grabbed her beach bag and picnic cooler from the bench in the hal . â€Å"Elena!† Aunt Judith scolded. â€Å"You have to eat something before you go!† â€Å"No time,† Elena said, smiling at the familiarity of the argument. â€Å"I'l grab a muffin or something on the way.† She and Aunt Judith had exchanged these words, or similar ones, most mornings of Elena's years in high school. â€Å"Oh, Elena,† Aunt Judith said, rol ing her eyes. â€Å"Don't move, young lady. I'l be right back.† Elena opened the door and smiled up into Stefan's eyes. â€Å"Why, hel o there, stranger,† she said softly. He kissed her, a sweet touch of his lips on hers. Aunt Judith hurried back into the hal way and pressed a granola bar into Elena's hand. â€Å"There,† she said. â€Å"At least you'l have something in your stomach.† Elena gave her a quick hug. â€Å"Thank you, Aunt Judith,† she said. â€Å"I'l see you later.† â€Å"Have fun, but please don't forget Margaret's dance recital tonight,† Aunt Judith said. â€Å"She's so excited about it.† Aunt Judith waved good-bye from the doorway as Elena and Stefan strol ed toward the car. â€Å"We're meeting the others at the boardinghouse and caravanning to Hot Springs,† Stefan said. â€Å"Matt and Meredith are both bringing their cars.† â€Å"Oh, good, we won't be as crowded as we were yesterday. Not that I minded sitting on your lap, but I thought I might squish Celia in the middle,† Elena said. She turned her face up and stretched like a cat in the sunshine. A breeze tossed her ponytail, and she closed her eyes and enjoyed the sensation. â€Å"It's a gorgeous day for a picnic,† she said. The world was alive with birdsong and with the rustle of trees. A faint tracery of white clouds underscored the bright blue of the sky. â€Å"Would it be jinxing ourselves to say it feels like the kind of day where nothing could go wrong?† she asked. â€Å"Yes, it absolutely would be jinxing ourselves to say that,† Stefan said, straight-faced, unlocking the passenger-side door for her. â€Å"Then I won't say it,† Elena said. â€Å"I won't even think it. But I feel good. I haven't been to Hot Springs for ages.† She grinned with pure pleasure, and Stefan smiled back at her, but Elena was struck once again by that certain something new – something troubling – in his eyes.

Problems of Team Cohesiveness in Online Courses

Problems of Team Cohesiveness in Online Courses Introduction When working with an online group, team cohesiveness is crucial for sharing of information and improving each member’s knowledge. The main challenge that befalls online courses teams is how to develop cohesiveness with the team members who might come from different cultural, economical, social, and political background; however with strategic moves, the cohesion can be developed (Parker, 2009).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Problems of Team Cohesiveness in Online Courses specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This paper discusses how to improve team cohesiveness and the benefits that will be attained from health cohesion. Improving team cohesiveness To improve cohesiveness among online members when conferencing members should be allowed to discuss matters that are outside the main topic for some time; although care should be exercised that the amount of time taken does not deviate the main topics to c over. The matters that can bring people together include once culture, political situation in their country, some life experiences that they might have undergone and they are willing to share, hobbies and likes. Other than communicating via the teleconferencing, members should be encouraged to be members of the same social network site as they will be able to discuss other issue of life that will facilitate them opening up and creating the much needed cohesion. When it comes on the part of the course, the team should manage the course such that every member is given a chance to handle a certain topic them train the other members; with such moves, members will feel they are accountable of each other and their cohesion builds. Another aspect that builds cohesion among people is conflicts management and sharing of experiences; in the case there will be an occurrence that calls for solving among the team members, every member should be involves in looking for a solution. When this happe ns, everyone will feel appreciated and a member of the larger team.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Benefits of team cohesion When working with a team that has a healthy cohesion, every member feels accountable and answerable to the larger group, with the feeling everyone works for the good of the other and thus team spirit is facilitated. When working in a team, communication and unselfish sharing of information is crucial, this can only be attained when the team has a good relation that is build through cohesion. There are times that conflicts among the members hinder the delivery of quality results, however when a team is well bonded, then such occurrences are unlikely to happen. Teams that have strong cohesion among themselves are highly motivated and fulfill their tasks and obligations in the team effectively; they are willing to learn and be taught by their c ounterparts. Motivation among members gives rise to high morale of fulfilling tasks that one has been allocated by the team and doing them diligently and on time. When challenged by other team members, member will be taking it positive and work to improve on the areas that have been pointed by others. Teams with good cohesiveness among themselves attain their targets and objectives with ease (Crother-Laurin, 2006). Conclusion Team cohesion is crucial for performance improvement among team members; it creates team spirit and promotes accountability of each team member. To promote the growth of team cohesiveness, team members need to respect each other opinion and criticize others positively. Team with high cohesiveness perform better and are more likely to attain their goals and objectives with ease. References Crother-Laurin, C. (2006). Effective Teams: A Symptom of Healthy Leadership. The Journal for Quality and Participation, 29(3), 4.Advertising We will write a custom ess ay sample on Problems of Team Cohesiveness in Online Courses specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Parker, G. ,(2009). Team Leadership: 20 Proven Tools for Success. New Jersey: Human Resource Development Press.

Facts About the Ocean As a Marine Life Habitat

Facts About the Ocean As a Marine Life Habitat Within the worlds oceans, there are many different marine habitats. But what about the ocean as a whole? Here you can learn facts about the ocean, how many oceans there are and why theyre important. Basic Facts About the Ocean From space, Earth has been described as a blue marble. Know why? Because most of the Earth is covered by ocean. In fact, almost three-quarters (71%, or 140 million square miles) of the Earth is an ocean. With such an enormous area, theres no argument that healthy oceans are vital to a healthy planet. The ocean is not divided evenly between the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemispheres. The Northern Hemisphere contains more land than the ocean- 39% land versus the 19% land in the Southern Hemisphere. How Did the Ocean Form? Of course, the ocean dates back long before any of us, so nobody knows for sure how the ocean originated, but it is thought that it came from water vapor present in the Earth. As the Earth cooled, this water vapor eventually evaporated, formed clouds and caused rain. Over a long time, the rain poured into low spots on the Earths surface, creating the first oceans. As the water ran off the land, it captured minerals, including salts, which formed salt water. The Importance of the Ocean What does the ocean do for us? There are many ways the ocean is important, some more obvious than others. The ocean: Provides food.Provides oxygen through the photosynthesis of tiny plant-like organisms called phytoplankton. These organisms provide an estimated 50-85% of the oxygen we breathe and also have the ability to store excess carbon.Regulates climate.Is a source of important products such as medicines, and things that we use in food such as thickeners and stabilizers (which may be made from marine algae).Provides recreational opportunities.Contains natural resources such as natural gas and oil.Provide highways for transportation and trade. More than 98% of U.S. foreign trade occurs via the ocean. How Many Oceans Are There? The salt water on the Earth is sometimes just referred to as the ocean, because really, all of the worlds oceans are connected. There are currents, winds, tides, and waves that circulate water around this world ocean constantly. But to make geography a bit easier, the oceans have been divided and named. Below are the oceans, from largest to smallest. Click here for more details on each of the oceans. Pacific Ocean: The Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean and the largest single geographic feature on Earth. It is bound by the western coast of North and South America to the east, the coasts of Asia, and Australia to the west, and the more newly-designated (2000) the Southern Ocean to the south.Atlantic Ocean: The Atlantic Ocean is smaller and shallower than the Pacific Ocean and is bound by North and South America to the west, Europe, and Africa to the east, the Arctic Ocean to the north and the Southern Ocean to the south.Indian Ocean: The Indian Ocean is the third-largest ocean. It is bound by Africa to the west, Asia and Australia to the east, and the Southern Ocean to the south.Southern, or Antarctic, Ocean: The Southern Ocean was designated from parts of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans in 2000 by the International Hydrographic Organization. This is the fourth largest ocean and surrounds Antarctica. It is bounded on the north by parts of South America, Africa, and Austral ia. Arctic Ocean: The Arctic Ocean is the smallest ocean. It lies mostly north of the Arctic Circle and is bounded by Europe, Asia, and North America. What Is Sea Water Like? Sea water might be less salty than youd imagine. Salinity (the salt content) of the sea differs across different areas of the ocean, but on average is have about 35 parts per thousand (about 3.5 % salt in salt water). To recreate the salinity in a glass of water, youd need to put about a teaspoon of table salt into a glass of water. The salt in sea water is different from table salt, though. Our table salt is made up of the elements sodium and chlorine, but the salt in sea water contains more than 100 elements, including magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Water temperatures in the ocean can vary greatly, from about 28-86 F. Ocean Zones When learning about marine life and their habitats, youll learn that different marine life may live in different ocean zones. Two major zones include: Pelagic Zone, considered the open ocean.Benthic zone, which is the ocean bottom. The ocean is also divided into zones according to how much sunlight they receive. There is the euphotic zone, which receives enough light to permit photosynthesis. The disphotic zone, where there is just a small amount of light, and also the aphotic zone, which has no light at all. Some animals, like whales, sea turtles and fish may occupy several zones throughout their lives or in different seasons. Other animals, like sessile barnacles, may stay in one zone for most of their lives. Major Habitats in the Ocean Habitats in the ocean range from warm, shallow, light-filled waters to deep, dark, cold areas. Major habitats include: Intertidal Zone, where land and sea meet. This is an area subject to great challenges for its marine life, as it is covered with water at high tide and water is largely absent at low tide. Therefore, its marine life must adapt to sometimes great changes in temperature, salinity, and moisture throughout the day.Mangroves: Mangroves are another salt water habitat along the coast. These areas are covered by salt-tolerant mangrove trees and are important nursery areas for a variety of marine life.Seagrasses, or seagrass beds: Seagrasses are flowering plants and live in a marine or brackish environment, usually in protected areas such as bays, lagoons, and estuaries. Seagrasses are another important habitat to a number of organisms and provide nursery areas for tiny marine life.Reefs: Coral reefs are often described as the rainforest of the sea because of their great biodiversity. The majority of coral reefs are found in warm tropical and sub-tropical areas, although deep-water corals do exist in some colder habitats. Pelagic Zone: The pelagic zone, also described above, is where some of the biggest marine life, including cetaceans and sharks, are found.Reefs: Coral reefs are often referred to as the rainforests of the sea because of their great diversity. Although reefs are most often found in warm, shallow tropical and sub-tropical waters, there are also deep-water corals that live in cold water. One of the most well-known coral reefs is the Great Barrier Reef off Australia.The Deep Sea: Although these cold, deep and dark areas of the ocean may appear inhospitable, scientists are realizing that they support a wide variety of marine life. These are also important areas to study, as 80% of the ocean consists of waters greater than 1,000 meters in depth.Hydrothermal Vents: While they are located in the deep sea, hydrothermal vents provide a unique, mineral-rich habitat for hundreds of species, including bacteria-like organisms called archaea that turn chemicals from the vents into energy using a pr ocess called chemosynthesis, and other animals such as tubeworms, clams, mussels, crabs, and shrimp. Kelp Forests: Kelp forests are found in cold, productive, and relatively shallow waters. These underwater forests include an abundance of brown algae called kelp. These giant plants provide food and shelter for a variety of marine life. In the U.S., the kelp forests that may most readily come to mind are those off  of the west coast of the U.S. (e.g., California).Polar Regions: Polar habitats are areas near the Earths poles, with the Arctic in the north and the Antarctic to the south. These areas are cold, windy and have wide fluctuations in daylight throughout the year. While these areas seem uninhabitable for humans, marine life thrives there, with many migratory animals traveling to these areas to feed on abundant krill and other prey. They are also home to iconic marine animals such as polar bears  (in the Arctic) and penguins (in the Antarctic). Polar regions have been subject to increasing attention due to concerns about climate change- as it is in these areas where a warmi ng of Earths temperatures would likely be most detectable and significant. Sources CIA - The World Factbook.Coulombe, D.A. 1984. The Seaside Naturalist. Simon Schuster: New York.National Marine Sanctuaries. 2007. Ecosystems: Kelp Forests.WHOI. Polar Discovery. Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.Tarbuck, E.J., Lutgens, F.K. and Tasa, D. Earth Science, Twelfth Edition. 2009. Pearson Prentice Hall: New Jersey.

A Study Of Using Cultura Project In Selected Universities In Saudi Essay

A Study Of Using Cultura Project In Selected Universities In Saudi Arabia And Australia - Essay Example With the progress of the Cultura methodology in the joint American and French educational institutions, there is an incredibly large potential for the Cultura project to be applied in other educational institutions wishing to be integrated as well. This system of integration can be used by other educational institutions separated by culture as an active classroom system where students are left with the task of learning something while teachers are on stand-by for monitoring purposes. It is with this progress that this paper is founded on. This paper revolves around the analysis of utilizing the Cultura method in joining two different cultures like Arabic and English to be applied with the same treatment. This undertaking will not only verify the effectiveness of Cultura methodology and generality of the findings of Furstenberg, Levet, English & Maillet (2001) but also contribute to the legacy of educational institutions towards cultural literacy. II. Statement of the Problem The study is aimed at determining the effectiveness of the Cultura Project in selected universities within Saudi Arabia and Australia. In addition, the study also aims to determine what would be the effect on cultural literacy and integration between Saudi and Australian schools when they are connected via the Cultura Project. The study would also focus on several facets of the socio-economic grid that are primary or secondary factors to the Cultura Project.

Ethical Question Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Ethical Question - Essay Example I will then head straight to the university’s head office to seek assistance. Since, it is prudent for the university’s management to be aware of what has transpired in the institution premises because they are accountable of everything and everyone within its confinements. I would then call the nearest police station and inform them of what has transpired and the location of the accident. This is to prove the accident was not intentional besides showing that I am ready to face the consequences. The management will then try as much as possible to locate the car’s owner with the registration number, which I took with the intention of discussing with owner on how to resolve the issue. Together with him or her, we would discus amicably the best way besides agreeing to cater for any caused damages. The reason for these actions will encompass upholding my dignity and ethics that I normally keep all through my life (Jennings 30). Secondly, I will be adhering to the already set laws that govern the state and dictate diverse restitutions, which any offender ought to observe. This is to maintain good and health interrelationships with the owner of the car despite both of being strangers to each other (Jennings 30). Therefore, my actions will be ensuring the person whom I have backed into his or her car will not feel much wronged. This is especially when he or she emerges and fails to see who was responsible for what has happened to his or her