The Strong Character of Penelope in Homers Odyssey Essay

The Strong Character of Penelope in Homers Odyssey Homers Odyssey is a story of the homecoming of Odysseus after the Trojan War. Odysseus left his wife, Penelope, and their young son, Telemachos, almost twenty years before the telling of this story to fight in the Trojan War. His absence places Penelope in a rather precarious position. Faced with many different circumstances, both good and bad, Penelope is on her own to decide the path she wishes to take. Depending on her decisions, the situations could either be filled with wonderful opportunities or perilous dangers. The strong character of Penelope is revealed by her decisions. While Odysseus is away from home, Penelope finds herself playing the role of dutiful wife†¦show more content†¦For my mother, against her will, is beset by suitors... (Odyssey 2.50). Assuming that Odysseus had died in the course of the war, they wish to marry her, although no news has yet been delivered as to Odysseus true fate. Meanwhile, the suitors are eating all her food, killing off all her livestock, and generally using up all the resources of the household (Odyssey 1.248-251). Elders of the town suggest Penelope forget her pride and go home to her father and for him to arrange a new wedding for her. Let him urge his mother to go back to her fathers, / and they shall appoint the marriage and arrange for the wedding presents... (Odyssey 2.195-196) Thus, the suitors pose multiple dangers for Penelope. If the suitors ruin all the households resources, or if one were to successfully persuade her to marry him, she would lose her power position. Likewise, if the resou rces run out and she is forced to move back in with her father, she would lose both her power position and her autonomy. Along with the suitors, Penelope also faces possible dangers from her own son. Even though Telemachos is not in support of sending Penelope back to her father, he does not fail to underestimate and otherwise disregard her. Following with the typical Greek mindset, Telemachos views women as inherently inferior to men. This view includes how he sees his mother. He automatically assumes that she cannot run aShow MoreRelated The Role of Women in the Odyssey Essay1212 Words   |  5 PagesWomen in The Odyssey Homer wrote the classic epic The Odyssey more than 2,500 years ago. At that time in ancient Greek society, as well as in the whole of the ancient world, the dominant role was played by men. Society was organized, directed, and controlled by men, and it was accepted that women occupied a subservient and inferior position. Women, of course, were valued, but were expected to possess certain traits and perform certain tasks that men demanded of them. Does Homers writing in TheRead MoreThe Odyssey, by Homer Essay1150 Words   |  5 PagesHomer’s Odyssey was written around 700 BC. During this time there was major social and economic change, which brought the development of new cities, as well as new laws to govern them. Political rights and citizenship in Greek society truly defined the roles of women in this time period. All of the laws governing the population of Greece were not only written by men, but also enforced by men. Homer’s Odyssey is the product of a society in which men played the dominant role. Women were held atRead MoreFemale Archetypes in Odyssey1289 Words   |  6 PagesA Plotting Princess: Female Roles in The Odyssey and Antigonà ª Karen Rustad The fairy tale Snow White is a story about two women. One, the evil stepmother, schemes against her stepdaughter in order to assuage her envy and increase her power. She, of course, is thwarted by the end of the story. The other, Snow White, is a pure, innocent damsel entirely devoid of will. Nevertheless, by the end her prince saves her and she lives happily ever after. While Snow White is a European fairy tale, itsRead MoreThe Penelopiad Analysis958 Words   |  4 Pagesmust first look at how Atwood perceived the characters and writings that Homer created in his novel ‘The Odyssey’ . In an interview, Atwood explained her beliefs on the gender roles surround The Odyssey thus incorporating this as well as other materials into ‘The Penelopiad’ by stating: â€Å"There is an argument that has been made quite thoroughly that The Iliad and The Odyssey were written by two different people, and that the person who wrote The Odyssey was a woman.’ Atwood then carries on to explainRead MoreAn Analysis Of The Odyssey 1251 Words   |  6 PagesMrs. Kottke Honors 10 English 3/24/16 The Power of Women in The Odyssey Throughout literary history, women are portrayed as mere property or tools of men; however, women can also be shown as people who hold power in Homer’s The Odyssey. Women hold a significant amount of authoritative power over men in both their lives and mindsets, and this can be seen through Circe s powers that are able to manipulate Odysseus and his men, Penelope s tactics to stall marriage and her caution toward Odysseus whenRead MoreThe Odyssey And Homer s Homeric1336 Words   |  6 Pages Throughout Greek mythology, there are characters that grasp our attention, fill us with dreams, and encourages us to find our sense of adventure fantasy. We encounter new brace characters, and once in awhile we see those qualities and characteristics in another character. that s the case with the characters of Demeter and Penelope. Although placed in different stories like The Odyssey and Homer’s Hymn to Demeter, both characters share qualities that makes them similar to one another. FurthermoreRead More Women of the Odyssey Essays1488 Words   |  6 Pages The Women of the Odyssey   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Many people regard Homer’s epics as war stories—stories about men; those people often overlook the important roles that women play in the Odyssey. While there are not many female characters in the Odyssey, the few that there are, play pivotal roles in the story and one can gain a lot of insight by analyzing how those women are portrayed. Homer portrays the females in contradictory ways: the characters of Athena and Eurykleia are given strong, admirable roles whileRead MoreThe Role of Woman in The Odyssey1240 Words   |  5 PagesAlthough â€Å"The Odyssey† by the Greek poet Homer is very much an epic tale of a man’s heroic quest, women play an incredibly large role. Homer’s epic tale, â€Å"The Odyssey† revolves around Ulysses’ quest to return back to his wife, Penelope, so that he may be reunited with her and assume control over his palace, which has been overrun by suitors. Ulysses’ son, Telemachus attempt s to regain authority in the presence of the many suitors but finds this difficult and embarks upon his own journey under theRead MoreThe Impacts Of The Odyssey In Homers The Odyssey1166 Words   |  5 PagesHomer’s epic poem The Odyssey follows Odysseus on his long journey home. The Epic also includes the stories of Odysseus’ family left behind: the travels of his son, Telemachus, and how plenty, of what we would now call â€Å"home wreckers†, suitors pressured his wife, Penelope, into marrying one of them. The characters are beautifully crafted and the story is truly epic. All the elements presented can bring in any reader from any century, the Cyclops, the Gods, the trickery of Penelope, and the disguisesRead MoreOdysseus Is A Hero?950 Words   |  4 Pagesqualities. In one of Homer’s classic epics, The Odyssey, Odysseus is admired by many people as a man who has intelligence, nobility, and confidence. However, women who both loved and knew Odysseus than anyone, thought of him differently and knew him in depth. Through The Meadowlands and The Penelopiad, Circe and Penelope showed their strong opinions of this â€Å"hero† through their own perspectives. Insteading having the definition of hero that majority believe in, which are fit and strong bodies, Greeks

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string(39) " far more superior to the local firms\." Globalization Is one of those few phenomenon we hear about all the time and refer we try to analyses the impacts that globalization has had on the world. With help of some of the best, easy to comprehend examples, we try to understand how with time the business world has become more interactive, communicative and inter- dependent in nature and if it really has been in favor of firms competing in the market. Globalization in business is the integration process of the world through the use of international trading system. We will write a custom essay sample on A Study or any similar topic only for you Order Now It unifies the local and foreign markets to make the trading even easier for businesses. In yet other words, we can call globalization the recess of Increased Inter-connectedness among the countries In the areas of culture, economics and politics. Firms competing In the market place have the luxury to choose their option and maximize their business potentials by the way of participating globally. Such process as a result, simplifies the corporate process of canvassing materials, production, marketing and distribution of products and services. The information System (IS) is quite different from the usual trading and thus businesses get alliance with ease other than supplies and labor forces from there countries as long as they follow the rules set by the global economic authorities including the World Trade Centre. (Schools, 2005) Is it not amazing when we turn an apple I-pod upside down and it says, ‘designed In California (US), assembled In China? The clothes In our wardrobe, an English brand made with Chinese cotton, sewed by Indian hands, shipped on a French freighter crewed by Americans to a united Kingdom harbor. That’s Globalization. The word ‘Globalization’ has always been creeping on all of us as long as we can remember; however, it has never been so visible and impacting until recent years. Artificial constraints like tariffs have become unfettering and the businesses are expanding globally complicating the already existing competitive environment (Change Park, 2005). It can be easily explained as to how the fundamental nature of competition has changed in the industries in the global economy. This change in itself has a relentless pace and moving forward at all time. In words of Williamson (2004), globalization has had too many implications to the national economy. It has intensified inter-dependence among economies in the world market and countries and yes, their organizations as reflected in the knowledge cross borders, flow of goods and services and the financial capital. In short, globalization is the outcome of a large number of business firms competing against each other in a rising number of global economies. Globalization in true sense extends immense opportunities for firms competing in the 21st century highly competitive landscape. In a globalizes market, as confirmed by Khan (2006), the financial capital can be obtained from one national market and be used to buy raw materials in a second market. The manufacturing equipment can be purchased from a third national market and be sold in yet another one or say a fourth market. It has become challenging to determine the boundaries of any industry in the current world scenario. Wall-Mart could be a straightforward example to support Khan’s (2006) view point. Wall-Mart is the name, the brand, the global giant which is known world over and have been trying to achieve retailing with global pricing, sourcing and logistics without getting impacted by the global boundaries. The idea was to be able to easily move goods and be able to seamlessly use the pricing strategies among all its international operations as it had been able to do in case of its domestic stores. Hit 2007) said once that, Wall-Mart is pursuing this type of retailing (boundary-less) on an evolutionary basis. And, he was right when he quoted that because in the past few it has even more evident that Wall-Mart has actually put things in practice and joined hands with others to make boundary-less retailing possible. Let’s count on another example from the entertainment industry. Advancements in telecommunications and the interactive computer networks have made the boundaries of entert ainment industry look blur and shady. Networks such as CBS, HOBO, Fox and NBC not only compete among themselves but, also with Sony and Microsoft and perhaps others. It is not easy any more to define the boundaries of a particular industry and switchover, new industry ventures have become more frequent. Yet another major affect of globalization is the design, production, distribution and servicing of goods and services and that is visibly convincing enough to gain instances. A suitable example will be Toyota Motor Company. Global competitor Toyota Motor Company provides shall help us understand how this happens. Toyota Company’s products are in high demand internationally because of its initial emphasis on product reliability and superior customer service and support. Barbwire Mean (2004) figured out that because the demand for Toyota Motor Company’s products, it’s competitive actions have forced its global competitors to bring improvements in their operations and instill reliability and best customer service and support. And this act of following Toast’s example has changed quality service’s concept entirely. Almost any vehicle bought today across the globe, from virtually any manufacturer (company/brand) is of a higher quality and all of them extend better ND tailored service support which was not exactly the case before Toyota began competing successfully on a global scale. The firms competing in the global economy have to understand, looking at the wider perspective, that globalization has heightened the levels of performance standards in terms of quality, cost, productivity, product introduction time span and operational efficiency which could be referred to as the so called competitive dimensions. Now, these competitive dimensions not only affect the firms competing in the global economy but, also the firms competing in the domestic markets. And the reason is Customer Preference’. The customer purchases form a global brand rather than a domestic firm or brand as they know that the goods and services offered by the global competitors are far more superior to the local firms. You read "A Study" in category "Papers" Globalization has also led to the free movement of labor and capital after being recognized as a key source of competitive advantage and therefore, firms globally must understand the importance of keeping a better track of their work force. As Prospers (2005) mentions, the best people will come from, Just about anywhere. ‘ Hence, work force relationship plays a very dynamic role with the dawn of libations. A mixed labor is not always easy to manage and if not given importance in the beginning things may go awry at a later time. An easy to understand example would be pinpointing the Asian community, which is big part of the world population and a big chunk of which works in the west. Too many nationalities and ethnicities working together and it takes the right kind if thinking and planning to keep the things going. And, no doubt that takes careful planning and implementation. The business corporations must learn enough to positively deal with the ground realities of the current global competitive environment. Only those companies have the ability to make above average profits which are capable of meeting or rather exceeding the existing global standards. (Fink Holder, 2005) The term, ‘Global Village’ Increasing Interaction among businesses Emergence of global economy did create some interesting opportunities. And, that is why today Europe is the world’s largest single market, instead of USA, with 2005). Globalization History can create arguments of when or where it usually started and who have been the pioneers of globalization but we know for sure this is the present notations that the world has been experiencing. This new form of business relation and practices often referred to as global village which is radically changing the business environment and it is true and highly relevant, valid and accepted in today’s modern economy. In order for businesses to grow they must consider jumping into the globalization challenges to be able to compete and gain market shares. This has been the rules of the most successful business leaders around the world because the opportunity is there to bring different nations and businesses closer to one another. Look around many establishment and you can find that international businesses are all around, Franchising makes business easy to expand all over the world that a certain person who has the capacity to put up business from Asia can franchise a business in America and other countries examples are Mac Donald, Levis, Seven Eleven, Sarah Lee, Avon and many other stores scattered around the world because of globalization. McDonald’s fast food chain can be considered as a true example of globalization as true globalization means one company procuring, manufacturing and selling in many countries and McDonald’s does exactly the same. It operates in 119 countries and has successfully integrated all its operations internationally. There are many advantages in this process and anyone who would like to take a franchise business is almost assured of success because of its brand, they have ready market all over the world that has gained popularity, franchiser even offer full marketing assistance that makes your business franchise grows using their adaptable marketing expertise that they will be shared upon franchising such business. Supermarkets where we buy are daily need products; accommodate all those reduces from all over the world. Olive oil from Greece, apples from South Africa, wine from France and likewise thousands of more products from around the world. Deco’s in the I-J, the biggest network of supermarkets in the UK for an example is no such exception and has left no stone unturned to bring products from all over to be made available in their stores located in the I-J. That is Just another touch to globalization because you are not taking your products to other countries, perhaps but, you are certainly bringing in other products under one umbrella to be sold to a did range of customers. An important discussion could around the Business Process Outsourcing industry which makes a certain business maximize profit by partnership from other countries, businesses like JP Morgan and chase, MM, Telltale, CIT and other companies in Europe and America usually hire and establish businesses in countries such as the Philippines and India since they are highly skilled in English Communication. Usually Technical Assistance from customers around the world pretending they are a part of such company. Through this process the company like IBM can cut their labor expenses while they enjoy productivity because of their highly effective BOP in other countries while people from other countries enjoys a good privilege from their Job because of high salary. This can happen because of currency differences from other countries and an example is India where US $ 1 is equal to RSI. 47 in Indian currency. This means that they mutually benefit from this process. This has been the reasons why BOP is highly increasing demand of people. In the Indian and Philippines alone there are at least 250,000 Call Centre people needed to fill in the vacancies of various BOP Companies. The downturn of BOP industry is that on one hand it provides Job opportunities to people of one country and takes away the Jobs of people from yet another country. Online Trading is the cause of globalization and advancement in technology that businesses can easily tap in customers using the internet, they can gain high market potentials using their website acting as an store-front to advertise their products and services that can be open 24 hours a day seven days a week. Hotels and restaurants, Air Aviation and Local Businesses including individuals can easily use the internet to gather customers around the world. This can also cut cost their labor and transportation expenses through online participation, customers can simply fill in their information and take the orders and it will be delivered via cargo forwarding, the process is also convenient to their customers since it only takes a few clicks of a button to get an order. These practices also includes the Import- Export trading that includes free trade or open participation that can give opportunity to most business organization and individual to gain international customers around the world. Having taken the world by storm are the internet based social networking websites hose days. Backbone, Resort, Linked, Google, Namespace, Twitter, Bebop, Hi, Nettle and may be hundreds of other social networking sites are always a click away with internet in existence. Twitter for instance serves over 200 million people (users) worldwide and takes in 1. Billion requests every single day. That’s globalization, right there, opening doors to the world and let communication channels to work their way out without any hindrance. When there are so many countries and organizations that support globalization and understand that it is the right tool for the development of less developed countries ND maximizing profits for the developed countries, there exist some Co untries and unions who believed that Globalization is somehow negative and that only the strongest corporation makes the domination and small business may not grow. This to an extent is right. The lesser developed nations might take a set back as in the name of globalization and world trade their resources could be plundered or misused by the stronger nations. Remember, somewhere we talked about the BOP industry which makes the outsourcing company a massive profit, in a way that also by taking advantage of their needs. Some believed that credit based economy has not done any good but false claims that leads to heavy debt burden while some small businessman believes that globalization is only for imperialistic purposes. Yet another constraint, and cannot be ignored. Globalization certainly has made things better but, in the future might take inter-dependency or complete dependency to a all new Level of chaos in the world. Other European and Middle East Countries somehow they believed that globalization may only favor the internationally known companies and this is not a free trade but the opposite. They re the Anti-Globalization Communities who are against this process, however their claim maybe, globalization will continue to dominate the business world. Globalization: A Stabilizing Factor in International Business It is evident from examples stated before in this paper that globalization has brought a dramatic change in the world market. Business firms attempting to expand their geographic foot-print to meet consumer demand, extending their value chain to a global level, stepping into boundary-less retailing and logistics, international tie-ups to get hold of a wider share of customer base, these are because of globalization and eave helped stabilizing the international business community by allowing free movement of men and materials, knowledge sharing and easy access to financial capital. Globalization has indeed at its core eased the border constraints making them less important than before as countries and economies become dependent on each other for survival and progress. Cross-borders transactions have reached to a new level as a result of diverse business locations of firms and their customer base in a broader market which allows them to secure their investments via spreading risk factor. The ERM Global Village nails the concept down very firmly. If it was not globalization the world we live in would never have been what it is now. Variety of goods for the customers, cheap affordable prices, and access to bigger markets, greater employment opportunities, faster technology and trade knowledge are all a result of globalization. Globalization does have its own side effects on somewhat manner as discussed a while ago but, the point it has it helped making things better and convenient, well, the answer is yes. It certainly has pushed the barriers and allowed the world to connect better and stronger than ever. Conclusion: Do we pay consensus to the fact that globalization is good? It is a simple question but, enough to lead to a heated debate among the experts. However, the bottom line is that globalization has indeed created more opportunities for businesses to expand globally, reach out to the mass segment of customers in need, take a stride in terms of revenue generation and of course increase brand but the more the economic and political challenges which emerge at the same time may or may not be addressed meaningfully and chances are more the emerging economies might fail to set up a proper state framework and structure to succeed. Swimming with the tide is still the best option at hand when the stream takes you exactly where you want to be. How to cite A Study, Papers

Impact of Communication in Business for Delivery - myassignmenthelp

Question: Write about theImpact of Communication in Business for Delivery. Answer: Use of communication in Business Communication is the key to a successful business and marketing strategy. Starting from the intercommunicating members of the organization to the marketing of the products, everything is based on communication. An organization is even useless without the communication between the employees (Cornelissen Cornelissen, 2017). Shared or personal communication tools are used in organizations in this regard. For marketing, the organizations mostly use social media as a communication tool as it has a far-reaching effect than verbal communication marketing. For instance, the commercial advertisements create more impact in marketing than a free sampling procedure does. Again, interpersonal communication throughout the hierarchy of an organization through emails and other tools is the only key where clarification and knowledge transfer is flawless. Otherwise, there are higher chances of miscommunication and knowledge gap. Value of Information to an Organization Information is a vital attribute to deal with in any kind of organization. The consumer and employee information are important details that are needed for a seamless structural flow in an organization. However, all these information are discrete and should be kept confined as much as possible. In an instance, it has been found that the letter and parcel transport courier service in Australia, called the Fastway Couriers have been operating since 1983 starting with a single van (Hearn, 2014). However, now it is a declining organization based on the communication services ever since. Weak connections within the organization and within the employees have only declined the organizations communication system. Failing to implement the newest strategy of availability of the services online for Fastway Couriers has made the consumer base weaker. Information mishandling Mishandling of information can have blasphemous effects in an organization. For instance, in the month of April in 2013, an employee of Applebee had posted an image online displaying a receipt a customer left for her. However, she was immediately fired from her position by the management as soon as they found out (Ahmed, 2014). This was due to the violation of customer privacy that the employee has committed even without realising. In the similar way, personal information of a customer is of utmost importance for the Fastway Couriers. It deals with the discrete personal information of its customers. This is because it deals with transfer of letters and couriers of its customers. Any mishandling of information may lead to blasphemous consequences. As of now due to mishandling of products, Fastway has over 2,800 poor customer reviews. Thus, from this situation we could infer that information mishandling is also a source of communication that can be extremely harmful to an organization structure. Process to utilise communication successfully in the organization Effective communication is the only way an organization can thrive in the industrial era. In case of the courier service organization Fastway Couriers, there have been poor customer reviews since the communication services have dropped each day after the inception of the company (Liang et al., 2014). This has simply occurred due to the communication system degradation with the passing of time. The company could not adapt to the digitization of services and thus started to lose their customer base one by one. Reference Ahmed, T. (2014). Customer perception about UCBL's remittance services. Cornelissen, J., Cornelissen, J. P. (2017).Corporate communication: A guide to theory and practice. Sage. Hearn, J. (2014). 11. Delivering the goods to households: would further regulation help or hinder?.The role of the postal and delivery sector in a digital age, 146. Liang, K. Y., van de Hoef, S., Terelius, H., Turri, V., Besselink, B., Mrtensson, J., Johansson, K. H. (2016). Networked control challenges in collaborative road freight transport.European Journal of Control,30, 2-14.

Strength To Forget Essays - Hosiery, Lingerie,

Strength To Forget Courage means a lot of things. Sometimes courage is the will to fight and overcome; sometimes it is the foresight to run away. And maybe, when the past obscures the present like the shadow of a ghost, courage is the strength to forget. In his compilation of short fiction, The Things They Carried, Tim O'Brien uses the Vietnam War, a shadow of his own past, to illustrate courage in many ways. ?Stockings? is the story of Henry Dobbins, whose courage to fight comes from a good luck charm: his girlfriend's pantyhose. Henry liked ?putting his nose into the nylon and breathing in the scent of his girlfriend's body . . . More than anything, though, the stockings were a talisman for him. They kept him safe.? (O'Brien, 129). The stockings would be powerless around anyone else's neck. But they represent something for Henry Dobbins that brings him peace within himself when the world around him is at war. On a practical level, it is impossible for the stockings to provide any real protection for him. Nonetheless, Henry was ?invulnerable? (Ibid), and this single word captures O'Brien's attitude towards ?courage' as a motivation to fight. Vulnerability is not a fault in a flak jacket. It's a breach of self-confidence. And in a theater that puts men at war with themselves as much as it pits them against their enemy, courage comes from within. Is a man without courage a coward? That's what O'Brien calls himself in ?On the Rainy River?, a story about a man with one foot out the door and the other stuck in quicksand. Before he went to war, he thought that courage came ?in finite quantities, like an inheritance?(Ibid, 40), that it could be stashed away in times of cowardice, to be tapped like a reservoir if ever ?the evil were evil enough, [or] the good were good enough.?(Ibid) When he got his draft notice in 1968, his reservoir went dry and he fled for the border. Sitting in an aluminum fishing boat on the Rainy River, halfway between Vietnam and Canada, he realized that he did not have the courage to run away. Every muscle in his body tried to pull him across the water to freedom, but behind him he heard the whole world cheering for him to stay. ?Like some weird sporting event . . . a million ferocious citizens waving flags of all shapes and colors?(Ibid,60) managed to hold him back. In ?The Man I Killed?, O'Brien's lack of courage also bars him from forgetting his most painful memory of the entire wara slim, dead, almost dainty young man of about twenty . . . with one leg bent beneath him, his jaw in his throat, his face neither expressive nor inexpressive . . . one eye shut . . . the other [a] star-shaped hole.? The image he presents is gruesome, and it is easy to understand why he cannot brush it from his memory. In fact, O'Brien creates an fictional life for the deceased man as a memorial and a sort of reparation for the fact that he killed the man himself. He is a coward for lacking the strength to forget, and at the same time strong for bearing the weight of his own actions. This is the greatest paradox in O'Brien's depiction of courage: although courage often means fighting and defying and ignoring, it takes a different kind of courage to stand up and accept reality for what it is. Memories were the heaviest things they carried, and courage is not strength to forget. Bibliography The Things they Carried by Tim O'Brien.

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buy custom Psychic-Mystical Aspects of Metaphysics essay Chapter 1: Introduction Metaphysics is aimed towards explaining the fundamental concepts of existence and the universe. Metaphysics originates from Aristotles philosophies (Loux, 2006, p. 5). However, the first philosopher of Metaphysics known till date is Thales of Miletus. He taught that everything originates from one single cause (termed as Arche). In metaphysics we address questions regarding the purpose of existence and various ways in which life and university could exist. Metaphysics helps us to understand our position in the universe. Metaphysics defines universe as a totality of the possibilities which can be repetitive. If we add these possibilities then we can derive the basic laws of universe. Mysticism is a phenomenon filled with subtle shades, both linguistic and metaphysical. Mysticism deals with consciousness that is beyond the stratum of normal human perceptions. It includes both experiences and divine union with the ultimate being. Mysticism originated from the mystikos (Louth, 2007, p. 204). The mystikos were considered to be those practicing the mystery religion. Their cult involved yearly ceremonies of goddesses Persephone and Demeter. These ceremonies were conducted secretly near Athens in ancient Greece. The mystikos date back to the Mycenaean period - around 1600 B.C. It was persistent for two thousand years. During the Hellenic era, these annual ceremonies shaped up as a key carnival and extended till ancient Rome (Louth, 2007, p. 204). Mysticism is a concept that cannot be expressed or bounded by definitions. However the explanation of mysticism has taken various literary forms which we will cover in details in the fourth chapter. Psychic is an individual competent in reception and extraction of information via mental sensory receptors. The word Psychic was coined by Fredrick Myers. He was the president and founder of the Society for Psychical Research. This term was later adopted by J.B. Rhine, who is a psychologist in Duke University. Clairaudience, Telepathy, Clairvoyance, etc are examples of some psychic abilities. The term psychic originated from the Greek word psychikos which means mental or related to the mind. A French astronomer named Camille Flammario is known to have first used the term psychic. Speculations and arguments regarding the source of psychic abilities or the reasons for the same have varied theories. As per empirical data and scientific research we use only 10% of our brain. Our brain has two compartments. The left side can be considered as the logical side, which is accountable for producing rational thought. Again it is said that the right hand side of our brain is active for creative effort, thus it is known as the creative or imaginative side- it is accountable for imaginative thoughts and intuition. Primarily, the left side of our brain is used more compared to the right. If we know the technique to balance these two sides then a pathway to ninety percent part of the brain opens up, that we generally dont use. This is the component of our brain capable of psychic and self healing activities, if used in a proper manner. In this thesis, we will discuss about the various philosophies related to the mystical and psychic aspects of metaphysics. We will begin with the literature review on western philosophies and eastern philosophies. Chapter 2: Review of Literature Western Philosophies on Metaphysics Aristotle The foremost significant work in philosophy was done by Aristotle. The main topic of this work was understanding being qua being. A common fallacy is the thinking that here Aristotle is talking about one subject being qua being - which is under investigation. However, instead of two objects i.e. study and subject matter, Aristotles description indicates towards three objects- subject matter, study and the manner of conducting the study (Furth Aristotle, 1985, p. 27). Thus being qua being is about observing and learning about the beings and the objects that study these beings in a meticulous manner. It is the art of understanding and affirming on something- simply on the basis of its existence. The fundamental question of metaphysics is defining ousia or substance (Furth Aristotle, 1985, p. 33). In the book Metaphysics A.1 Aristotle said that wisdom is about the cause-effect principles of matter. Therefore these causes and principles are the areas to be researched upon to answer the primary question of metaphysics. This is what Aristotle termed as first philosophy. In his book Aristotle says that first philosophy is concerned with PNC (the principal of non contradiction). The first philosophy principles appear academic, hypothetical and remote from the genre of ordinary experience. But according to Aristotle such principles can be researched by someone, who has researched natures laws and principles. Physics is a field which involves understanding Natures laws and principles via experimentation. Thus, Aristotle has rightly termed that the focus area of first philosophy as coming after the Physics. But the study of beings in metaphysics differs from subjects like Natural Science or Mathematics from the perspective angle. Mathematics studies beings as quantifiable entities and Natural Science observes beings as entities involved in Natures laws. However, Metaphysics first enquires the cause behind the existence and survival of beings. While defining being and its existence, Aristotle said that the faculty of sensation is present in all beings, however only in case of some, this sensation acts as a generator of memory. Memory is the key driver in the learning process. Therefore, those having the power of memory are better learners and are termed more intelligent than others. Memory and sensation together helps animals to learn. However, there is more important than plain learning that human beings express. This is what Aristotle termed as connected experience (Furth Aristotle, 1985, p. 47). Categories, is Aristotles work on logic that directs the manner of making a proposition and inferring from the same. Aristotle divided all beings into ten categories and determines the first category i.e. substance (ousia) as most important. Thus, the books , , and of Aristotle deal with the study of substance. In his book .2 Aristotle says that beings can be termed as substances only in their key sense and to non-substantial categories in secondary sense (Bohn Aristotle, 1998, p. 2). However, it is still a topic of argument amongst philosophers regarding non-substantial categories. Aristotle on Psychic In De Anima Aristotle tries to define soul. In the second chapter he defines soul as that, which can be distinguished from another by the property of possessing life. Here he termed the self nutrition capability of plants as the only psychic power it possesses. He terms mind as eternal, because of its capability of solitary functioning- which differs itself from all other psychic powers. Aristotle defines psychic states in human as the states that are causally relevant to teleological explanation of the organisms movements. Eastern Philosophies on Metaphysics The eastern world philosophy concentrates on the unity of all living entities and the energy flow connecting them. Therefore the concept of every living entity being connected to another is the main essence of Eastern Philosophy. In this section we are going to discuss Taoism, Buddhism and Hinduism in context of metaphysics. The Tao Philosophies Taoism was introduced as the State religion of China in 440 B.C. by Lao Tzu. Taoism believed in a life that balanced with nature and this balance is the key to a prosperous life. The word Tao means a force that interconnects all lives or living beings. The principles or the mechanism of this connection was, however, unknown to ancient Tao philosophers(Tao Longevity, 2004). Taoism defines the psychic powers as the key to augment the vital energy that is flowing through the cosmos- interconnecting all living beings. A practice in Taoism- known as SunDo directs individuals to enhance their vital energy by practicing lower abdominal breathing. This is also known as Taoist alchemy or metaphysics(Tao Longevity, 2004). Taoism believes that the energy from the third eye sustains the vitalities like awareness and mental attentiveness. The navel chakra radiates essence which is symbolic of physical fitness. Finally the heart chakra represents the source of energy that is emanated from the spir its of every living human. Complete development of these three qualities leads to enhancement of psychic powers (understanding of self and the surroundings). The Vedic Philosophies Vedas are the sacred texts of Aryans. The Vedic metaphysics believes in harmony that allows fusion of contrasting social values. Thus the Vedic prayer to the supreme creator is OM Shanti Shanti Shanti requesting the Lord to create and maintain peace all around (Sabhlok, 2011, p. 21). Around 8000 hymns in Vedas relate to metaphysics (Kapoor, p. 236). Vedic metaphysics defines weakness a consequence of desire for material pleasure, sensual pleasure and other psychic conditions. The remedy for such weakness in Vedic metaphysics is defined as Vidya or knowledge (Sabhlok, 2011, p. 25). The psi phenomenon in Vedic metaphysics is defined as the connection via a medium that is related to awareness or intellect (buddhi) and thought process (chinta) rather than senses and body (Sabhlok, 2011, p. 18). The divine instruments for enhancement of psychic power in Vedas have been identified as: mind (manas), spirit (jiva), soul (atma), pride (ahamkar), intellect (buddhi). The Nirguna Brahma is the supreme reality in the Vedas. The Vedic God has been termed as non describable. According to Sankrachrya- words recoil before him. He is beyond any categorisation and is the ultimate reality. The Vedas term corruption as the root for social destruction and cause of destruction of peace or shanti. History shows that the Roman Empire which was built upon conquered wealth got destroyed because of the materialism and corruption. Same was the story of the Indian Nanda dynasty (Kapoor, 2002, p.323). It was more important to remove corruption than build a mighty army in order to sustain an empire. Donations and presents are considered to be a form of corruption. However the Vedas say that any gift or amount given as charity, solely for the purpose of giving and with no other hidden intentions are Sattavic gifts and should not be termed as any form of corruption. These are seen in the Vedas as a divine gift from the Almighty. According to the Vedas charitable acts helps to purify ones soul. A question in Metaphysics is that Is the world reality or illusion? According to the Shuniya Vadins, the entire universe is void (Shunya), just like most part of an atom and only the spirit of the divine Lord reside there (Sabhlok, 2011, p. 160). Vedas also reflect on the power of Nature. Mankind grows up with Prakiriti and therefore is much familiar to Mother Nature and her boons as well as her wrath (Sabhlok, 2011, p. 4). In Rig Veda Nature has been described as Prakriti and in Yadur Veda as immortal mother. Earth is described as the kind and extremely tolerant Prithvi Devi. Nature is also described as the material cause or Matar in the Vedas that came in contact with Pitar (father in heaven). According to Bhagwat Gita- Nature is the foundation for determination of all causes, effects and agents (Sabhlok, 2011, p. 4). The Vedas defines consciousness as the key to identify reality. The Veda defines psychic healing or psycho kinesis as a result of self consciousness (Atman). It defines telepathy and the phenomenon of precognition as the sensory organs of Atman or eyes and hands of the soul. The psi phenomenon is basically defined in the Vedas as sensory reception by our soul, rather than our body. According to the Vedas- this psychic level is where we experience inner consciousness and have minimum level of awareness. In yogic philosophy, persons achieving such level of consciousness are termed as Siddhis. The Buddhist Philosophies Buddhism dates back to 6th century BC. Unlike other religions Buddhism is concerned with life more than afterlife. It guides us and tells us about how we should spend our life. Buddhism directs four noble truths. Buddhism says that suffering of mankind can be ended by following the eight fold path. Metaphysics of Buddhism depends on the basic principle that although the world exists, it is not permanent. Therefore the sufferings endured by the beings in the world are also not permanent. Buddhist phlosophy has two divisions- Hinayana and Mahayana. Mahayana is based on idealistic metaphysics and Hinayana is based on realistic metaphysics. Another name foe Hinayana is Theravada. Its metaphysical basis is ontology. In Theravada the world is compared to the peeling of an onion. Every entity depends on another, thus a single entity cannot be independent and therefore cannot be real. Therefore we can understand that the world is not permanent in this case. But in order to free ourselves fro m suffering we should spiritually understand the transitional reality. This will help us to lead a life with minimal suffering. In case of Mahayana, individual consciousness is considered to be independent from the world. Mahayana has three schools of thought: Yogachara, Sautantrika and Madhyamaika. Yogachara defines world as an abstract reality. It considers the world as unreal because of its non existence. It recognises only the existence of consciousness. This solitary state of existence is termed as Nirvana in the Yogachara school of thought. The Madhyamaika philosophy denies the existence of world just like Yogachara. However, in this case the existence of I or consciousness is analysed and scrutinised. Such scrutiny reveals that consciousness is inter wound with the world and cannot exist independently. Thus it denies both the world and consciousness or I. According to Sautantrika school of thought, the existence of world is based on our inference or our senses. Thus existence of the world is dependent on our collective consciousness. Chapter 3: Findings Physics and Metaphysics The interrelationship between different types of energies is an area of limitation of Quantum mechanics. Quantum theory assumes energy is transferred in packets- as light or as it is scientifically termed-photon particle. But atomic ultra structure has revealed that neutrinos are of two types and are also in photonic or energy packet form. This assumption is the reason of limitation of Quantum Mechanics, since all energies are not in packet forms. The wave particle duality concept or the uncertainty principle explains not only movements of matter but also forms of time itself. It considers not only the three dimensions, but also the fourth and the fifth dimension that vibrate like the three dimensions. In fact, these vibrations are responsible for the two forms of energy and gravity fields that generate the magnetic and light field. This is a significant property in to be considered in order to analyse the movement of pure energy- whether it is in packet form or not. The question: can a thing be justifiably considered strictly as a particle, or a wave, is addressed in the uncertainty principle. If one insists that a thing is a particle, then we should be able to determine quantitatively its fundamental properties like momentum or position which are inseparably associated with particles. Such measurements though extremely simple with macroscopic bodies (e.g. the planets, a football, a tennis ball, etc.), would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, in the case of very small particle like the electron. It is so, because the electron is too small to be seen directly and hence it can be observed only indirectly by perturbing it with an outside agency like an electric or magnetic field or a light photon. But, exposure of the electron to any such force will at once change its position or velocity (and hence its momentum). Heisenberg expressed this situation by stating that, the more accurately the position of a particle like the electron is defined , less accurately its velocity is known and vice versa. This principle was propounded by Heisenberg. The principle can be also expressed as It is impossible to measure simultaneously the exact velocity and the exact position of a small particle like the electron. If x represents the uncertainty in defining the position, and the uncertainty in defining the velocity is expressed as v, the mathematical expression for the uncertainty principle takes the form: , where h= Plancks constant, whose value is 6.62410-27 erg-sec. This equation implies that it is impossible to know simultaneously the velocity as well as the position of a small particle likes the electron accurately, which is the alternative statement of the uncertainty principle which has been already pointed out. The classical atomic model, which incorporates the concept of the electron moving in a definite orbit, where both its position and velocity (and hence, momentum) are exactly known, must be replaced, because it is in contradiction to the fundamental scientific principle - the uncertainty principle. Therefore, the wave-mechanical atom, expressing the position and velocity in terms of probability, is a logical and inevitable outcome which led to the concept of atomic orbital. The Uncertainty Principle helps in the understanding the reason behind the nature of organisation of this universe. The organisation of the universe in its present form is because of the fact that it could not have been organised in any other form considering the physical laws of existence. Other than the Uncertainty Principle, the concept of relativity in 21st century physics does not take into consideration all forms of energy that travels at a faster rate than that of light energy. Mainly the concepts of two different movements of time, the two different forms of gravity and instantaneous transfer of energy into actual space dimensions have been missed. The time differences in fourth and fifth dimensions were not accounted in the concept of relativity. Thirdly, we come to the String Theory. The String Theory failed to understand matter energy relationship and its explanation required 26 dimensions, whereas it could have been done in 5 dimensions. The fact that it cannot be proved or rejected on the basis of experimentation shows that some element is missing. The Quark Theory is also incomplete because it tries to fit in Nature. But quarks have not been observed in nature and there is much to doubt regarding their true existence. Particle physics has failed to understand that matter affects other matters as well as itself in the universe. This is why many of the fundamental particles in physics appear to have been created. The concept of virtual particles is foggy in the sense that if they are capable of creating magnetic field, then it is unlikely that they will remain undetected. Besides, virtual particles should travel exactly equal to the speed of light in order to retain their theoretical properties. To this date, physics or any other domain of science has failed to define God or at least explain the concept. Metaphysics defines God as the sum of energy, space and matter. Physics has failed to explain the reason for energy being perpetual. Metaphysics says that energy cannot be created or destroyed because energy is basically the vibrations of the dimensions of space. Metaphysics also defines space as indivisible. The energy in parts of space is due to the energy difference in itself. Space is a form of energy. This has been discussed in details in the following section. Psychic Powers and Energy In order to understand the energy involved in psychic abilities or psi, we first need to discuss the different forms of energy known to us in the universe. Time Speed of time depends on the reference of the observer to the speed of light. The simplest definition of energy is the kinetic energy of an object measured with respect to a reference frame. Thus fundamental energy is explained in terms of frame of reference. To reach the reference frame of comparatively faster object energy is required. And time is distorted in such kinetic energy fields and is affected by the uncertainty principle. Time can be considered as a scaffold in which energy is transferred. The movement of sub atomic particles, for e.g. electron from one point in the space to another point via absorption of energy is considered from the point of view of the observed as a jump in space. But there is another theory about the space being curved towards an object a fundamental property that makes the object instantaneously skip trillions of minuscule steps in space. Metaphysical scholars describe this as an illusion due to the difference in times rate. Time passes at different rates depending on the speed of the observers reference frame with respect to time. When the speed of the observers reference frame is close to the speed of light, then time runs slow. And when the observers speed of reference frame is minimal compared to the speed of light- then time runs fast(Reynolds, 2002, p. 188). Therefore if the speed of the observer becomes equal to the speed of light, then these differences are eliminated, and the object travelling at light speed can move through space instantaneously. Gravity The gravitational field of an accelerating object is the second most complicated form of energy. Energy is added or absorbed from the object or from the dimensions of space. There is a second type of gravity that leads to the space being wrapped around the object- leading to the formation of the fifth dimension. Magnetic Field It has been mathematically proved that magnetic field is a form of energy. However, scholars or metaphysics suggest there is a connection between gravity and magnetic field since its source is from the structure of matter and it itself is an extension of matter. Strong Field and Weak Field The weak field is a trillion times weaker than the magnetic force and is actually a by product of the strong force. The strong field is exactly opposite of magnetic energy. In this case the instantaneous speed of an object is directly proportional to its mass. Heat Matter is in pervasive motion. This motion is the fuel for the energy of matter. The acceleration of a matter is because of absorption of energy. And time measures such movement; therefore it has been defined in the earlier discussion as a framework for the transmission of energy and not a form of energy itself. (Reynolds, 2002, p. 188) Light The vibration of the dimensions of space- length, thickness and height and is what we know as light energy. The energy in a light particle or photon is directly proportional to the combinations of Plancks constant. Matter Matter can be termed as energy in its solid form. It is not a pure form of energy- since pure form of energy cannot bind with any other form of energy. Matter has instantaneous affect on other matter due to gravity leading to vibration of matter in space. Three Dimensions of Space The three dimensions of space- thickness, length, breadth are a form of energy that generates a magnetic field. Since, in case of magnetic field an area of space has more energy than the adjacent area. This difference in energy is not caused by any movement but due to the holding of energy by these three dimensions of space. Thought Process and Energy Metaphysics suggest that the endeavour of measuring and observing an object radiates or absorbs energy from the substance or space itself. After discussing the above forms of energy, we come to field that deals with the very foundation of psychic abilities or psi. Metaphysical researchers suggest that any idea or thought has some kind of minute effect in the universe. Ideas expressed or unexpressed remain as a form of energy. A hypothesis in this case is that there cant be a concept of generation of new idea- since all ideas exists in this universe in some form or the other. We can conclude by saying that our brain or mind is also a mystical form of energy. Such forms of energy do not travel in particulate or wave form in the space. Matter and Psi The common theory of formation of substance is that the universe initially was made up of electrons and anti electrons. This theory is in disparity to itself because such existence would be preposterous, since the particle and anti-particle would have neutralised each other leaving nothing else but emptiness. Contemporary researchers have found that it is possible to produce matter from pure energy. A carrier matter is required even at the preliminary stage to transmit this energy. Exploring the Psychic Phenomenon The main concept of psychic comes from extrasensory perception. Extrasensory perception iis related to senses that are not common to us or known to us. These are basically sensory transmissions related to the mind. Amongst the early scholars dealing with psychic research J.B Rhine is mentionable. He and his wife tried to establish psychology as a part of empirical science. They used to perform their research experiments in Duke University during the 1930s.The life works of J.B. Rhines was mainly dedicated towards structuring psychical science and defining the terms like Extrasensory Perception, Psi. He also tried to design tests and experiments to assess their validity. Louisa Rhine, on the other hand, was dedicated towards collecting accounts of paranormal or psychic experiences. The development of Zener cards marked a stepping stone towards scientifically assessing extrasensory phenomenon. It is a pack of twenty five cards that bears various symbols like square, circle, cross, wavy lines, and star. These cards are used for experimentation especially in case of telepathy. Generally there are two participants in this kind of experiments. The sender needs to look at the symbols and mentally choose any one of them. And the receiver has to guess which symbol has been chosen. Of course the orders of these cards are always random in case of these experiments, so that no prior technique can be used by the receiver. Clairvoyance can also be tested with the help of these cards. In this experiment only one participant is the subject. The card, in this case, remains hidden. The receiver should guess or determine accurately the location of the cards. Like telepathy, in this experiment also, the cards should be hidden cautiously, so that it is not seen by anybody other th an the person in charge of the experiment. Another type of experiment with the help of these cards is the precognition experiment. In this case the order of the cards is shuffled randomly. Only one subject can participate in this test at a time. The receiver or the subject would need to guess the exact order, after it has been shuffled. Initially these cards were randomly shuffled by hand. Later on machines were used. Following this was the trend of using random number tables. Now-a-days computers are used for such shuffling. The advantage of using extra sensory perception cards is that a statistical measurement can be done to determine that how many hits (or positive results) can be obtained by chance. So the chance factor can be eliminated and the final results would consist of real hits. Psychic Phenomenon- From the ancient civilisations to nineteenth century The origins of fortune telling and divination dates back to several thousand years when, astrology was the most celebrated type of fortune telling. The basis of astrology is the position of celestial body in space. Based on the changes of their position, it is believed that future events can be guessed. Also there were prophets, who claimed to have the abilities like precognition and clairvoyance. Prophets or Astrologers were part of the noble population in the early days. They were priests, advisors, and people belonging to the upper echelons of the society. A legend on precognition and prophets is The Delphic Oracle. The priestess Pythia residing over the oracle is believed to possess prophetic abilities. Michel de Nostredame, popularly known as Nostradamus is believed to have possessed psychic abilities. He was a French apothecary. His prophecies mainly deal with plague, disaster, battles, murders, etc. In the mid nineteenth century, amongst the mentionable development is the advent of modern spiritualism. The basic idea is that spirits or souls can be contacted via mediums. Daniel Dunglas Home is a psychic who became famous during that period mainly because of his levitation qualities and reported communication abilities with the dead. Modern Research and Beliefs In the year 1990 a survey was conducted by the National Academy of Sciences. The survey results showed that only 2% of the respondents believed in the scientific validation of psychic abilities and psychic philosophies. Another 2% of the population asserted to the fact that these phenomenon may occur at certain times (Loux, 2002, p. 56). However, when asked about whether research in this fields should be encouraged or not, maximum respondents (sixty three percent) replied negatively. Twenty two percent of the population believed it should be discouraged and only ten percent of the population believed research in this field should be encouraged. However, in the year 2005, The Gallup Organization conducted a survey in which as many as forty one percent of the respondents said that they believed in extra sensory perception. Among these, thirty one percent believed in telepathy and twenty six percent believed in clairvoyance. Again in the year 2006 researchers Bryan Farha and Gary Stewar d of the Oklahoma City University and University of Central Oklahoma organised an opinion poll amongst 439 college students. The data suggested that the trend of belief in psychic phenomenon was more in senior students and graduates than in fresher. As many as thirty four percent of graduates and thirty one percent of senior college students asserted to the fact that they believe in psychic abilities, however the percentage was only twenty three in case of fresher students. The above data suggests that there has been an uptrend in belief and knowledge of psychic abilities. However, research endeavours in this field are still limited. To explore the mystical area of metaphysics, more research endeavours are required. It should be noted that although the philosophy of metaphysics is unique and different from any other domains of science, research in modern metaphysics has strictly been empirical type. Since the ideology of this subject is different, therefore the methodologies need to be adapted accordingly. Thus the research procedure on human brain should reflect more of a metaphysical angle than empirical angle. Else it cannot be considered under the domain of psychic research. With due reference to the differences in metaphysics and empirical science, it should also be remembered that both the domains seek the answers to the same question the reason of our existence. Thus the motive behind both these domains is the same. Only the nature of reasoning and the method of searching the answers are different. Chapter 4: Discussion Empirical Science vs. Metaphysical Science The meaning of the term empirical is anything that is derived from experimentation and observation. Empirical science is considered with scientific evidence that has been empirically derived. An empirical scientist would move on the basis of some hypothesis. Then the scientist needs to design an experiment which would verify the truth of the hypothesis. Empirical science acts on the basis of logic and evidence. However Metaphysical science is concerned with the mechanism of logic itself. Empirical Science tries to derive evidence from interaction between entities and then concluding the laws governing those entities. However, metaphysical science is concerned with the relationship between all entities. Empirical science assumes, perception as a tool that will guide us to reality. Whereas metaphysical investigates perception itself and accounts it as evidence. Metaphysics is concerned with analysing the nature of reality and distinguishes between what is real and what is not. Interestingly, Empirical science also aims to answer the same questions, but in a different manner. Thus, we must remember that empirical science and metaphysical science are connected to some extent. The Western philosopher, Aristotle was considered as one of the greatest scientists of that time. His methods cannot be distinguished as either science or philosop hy. Modern Understanding of Mysticism In order to understand the modern concept of mysticism, we need to refer to Neo-Platonism and Platonism, because these are the building blocks of modern concept of mysticism. Platonism is defined as Platos philosophy or any other philosophy that is the derivative of Platos philosophy(Underhill, 2003, p. 230). Platonism distinguishes between perceptible and intelligible realism. The central concept in Platonism revolves around the Theory of Forms. The highest form has been defined as the form of good by Book VI of the Republic. The basis of Platonic philosophy is to recognise the ultimate form of good. A derivative of Platonism is Neo-Platonism. Its area of focus is the spiritual as well as the cosmological areas of Platonism. Philosopher Plotinus propounded Neo-Platonism. Modern form of mysticism is basically the divine union with the ultimate being or enlightenment into conscious cognition. It is direct interaction with the divine spirit via extrasensory preceptors. Modern mysticism may be of two types- dualistic and non dualistic. (Underhill, 2003, p. 230) Dualism of mysticism is when there is a distinction between self and the divine being. Non dualism is when that distinction is not there. Many of the world religions have been inspired by Mysticism (for example Buddhism, Christianity, etc). The concept of enlightenment arose from mysticism, where enlightenment means attainment of mysticism (irrespective of faith). Parapsychology- A Psychic Phenomenon The term parapsychology was used by philosopher Max Dessoir in the year 1888. J.B. Rhine replaced the term psychical research in the 1930s and used this term instead. Parapsychology deals with certain alleged mysterious, paranormal or supernatural events like psycho kinesis, precognition, clairvoyance, near death experience, telepathy, apparitional experiences and reincarnation. The term telepathy means transfer of information from one entity to another without the aid of any known sensory or physical interactional channels. The word has been derived from the Greek work tele which means communication and the word pathe, which means hardship or experience. The proper expression for telepathy is thought transference. The term was coined by Fredrick W.H. Myers. However the reality of telepathy has not been yet convincingly established. The results of experiments concerned with telepathy have failed to provide any conclusive evidence so far. Precognition or second eye generally relates to the phenomenon of acquiring knowledge of future phenomenon that cannot be acquired via normal sensory perceptions in the present(Mathew, 2005). This is a type of extra sensory perception. However, the existence of precognition has not been recognised by the scientific community, since it lacks proper evidence. Another aspect is that, till date demonstration of such event has no t been received under controlled environment. Clairvoyance is also a type of extra sensory perception. This is the phenomenon of obtaining information about an individual, place, thing or event via uncommon sensory channels(Mathew, 2005). Telekinesis or Psycho kinesis is the phenomenon of observable influence of mind on any object. Reincarnation relates to the basic idea that soul remains even after our body perishes. Scientists account near death experience as hallucinatory, however paranormal researchers and scholars account them as proof of the existence of afterlife. Chapter 5: Summary and Conclusion Although researchers and philosophers have tried to carry on research to empirically prove psychic phenomenon, according to many critics like Ed J. Gracely, evidence cannot suffice for universal acceptance o psychic phenomenon. The reason is that the probability of this phenomenon is rare and is subject specific. It is still not clear why extra sensory perception abilities are exhibited by only few. This field has been categorised as various critics as pseudoscience. Another point is that for many psychic activities there is a non paranormal explanation. For example magicians like Derren Brown have shown various tricks and techniques the result of which appears similar to popular psychic phenomenon. However, there are psychological explanations to these phenomenons, rather than paranormal ones. Although there are various criticisms on Psychic phenomenon and research on extra sensory perceptions, it has to be taken into account that these are quite unexplored areas of metaphysics in terms of empirical research. And in many cases metaphysics has been able to describe these extra sensory phenomenon and define its mechanism. Any other dimension of science has still not been able to give any conclusive explanation. From the concept of God to the concept of summation of all possibilities, metaphysics gives a conclusive view and reasoning of what is now and what is beyond now. The various eastern and western philosophies as well as the scientific energy theories discussed are directed towards understanding the fundamental questions of metaphysics. Psychic and mysticism is also a part of that fundamental question, since it also a part of the study of substance and the various energy system in this universe connecting beings. Buy custom Psychic-Mystical Aspects of Metaphysics essay

Advantages Of Car Tuning

Advantages Of Car Tuning Youve got your brand-new car from the shop. I understand you are very much excited about it. As soon as you wake up in the morning you ran to the garage to find out if your car is around. Your buddies are coming to a location to have a sight of it. This makes you believe that youre on peak of the planet. As soon as you return from your workplace youre prepared for a very long drive along with your pals. These days youre so much busy with your own dream. But allow me tell you something that together with the passing of time the performance of your cars retards because of wear and tear of several pieces of your cars. So what would you do then? You may sell off and find a brand new one! Remember you have to work very difficult to make single buck. Itll be not a reasonable option to do so. However, you cannot also proceed with a very low performance car. Do not worry! Theres a way out too. Only get your car and that is about to delight in the joy of a brand-new car with an older one. Your money will also be saved. Is not a good idea! Car tuning has become a hobby for a lot of men and women. They love to change their cars according to their wish. In reality tuning your car is your perfect way to boost performance of your car. It entails some strategies to alter the car so as to raise its own potentialities. In reality car tuning can help you to customize your car. Its possible to alter these parts where you only desire to give your car a personal touch. Nowadays owners are researching endless procedures for pruning to make the most of the potentialities of the one. Boosting Power Throughout Car Tuning There are numerous innovative methods to upgrade your cars performance in both the small and larger parts of your car. Car pruning may take on the various characteristics of your car that may independently contribute to upgrading and improving your car, and of course the security and durability that it supplies. In the area of good engine tuning, car engines may be retrofitted with a performance processor to provide it a particular boost. It may be adaptable to motors in their own fuel injection or digital control apparatus systems. This performance chip may quickly bring about better performance of their typical engines by up to 10 percent and also to turbo engines by up to 30 horsepower. In car pruning, a performance camera might also be installed including an additional 12 horsepower to your engine boost. The gas pressure regulator may be substituted using a power boost valve at the return fuel line to similarly increase the ability of your car. With improvements in the driving capability, you can even introduce extra modifications to its stopping power via brake performance tuning. In fact, its advisable that you equip your car with an upgraded braking system before presenting car power modifications. Even though it isnt thought to be a performance update, the steering can help in the performance and security of the car. In car pruning, an immediate means to improve braking would be to match your car with high performance brake pads and split disks which could withstand intense heat during extreme braking requirements better than regular disks and pads. Air filter pruning is considered the easiest in car tuning tasks. Air filters and air filter components can be substituted with high performance air filters for an exceptional power boost on your motor performance. Theres also the cho ice of working with an induction kit to boost air flow within a fuel-injection system rather than working with the air box. This kit comes with a conical filter that can be installed right within the air flow estimate and also direct the air better in the motor, which effectively updates the search engines performance. Ford Racing Spare Parts For Peace of Mind Whether you ride in a Costly limo or drive a Decades old car that is not worth a whole lot, your vehicles reliability is dependent upon how well you keep it. All vehicles that travel the streets need servicing at regular intervals from accredited and/or trained mechanisms. Routine check-ups help ascertain if your car requires any parts replaced. A faulty portion can lead to damage to your motor vehicle. Ford racing spare parts is considered higher quality options for your motor vehicle. You dont need to bother about the durability of this Replaced component, if you opt to purchase ford racing spare parts. They include no-questions-asked replacement warranty within a predetermined interval. 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In the long term, you could save money by purchasing ford racing spares. You must factor in how long parts will operate and their warranty. Spending the first time will save money rather than purchasing new spares.

Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Education - Essay Example Thus, repeated experiences of teaching different topics and observing lectures and sessions being taken emphasized the understanding within the Physicist that the general notion of understanding among the teacher-to-be was that the meaning of learning something was only to memorize it word by word, knowing every single definition by heart. But the core understanding of any of those things was unimportant to them. Absence of actual understanding led to the inability of the students to relate the physics concepts to practical situations. Certain words or ideas that appear frequently are ‘learn’, ‘meaning’ etc. The physicist is trying to emphasize that knowing something is not merely memorizing it but it actually requires concepts to be understood in practical perspectives especially when it comes to physics. The most important binaries that the author sets up are mentioning the Brazilian teachers-to-be to the mainstream system of the country itself. Another im portant binary that the physicist mentions is that of mentioning the US government officials to be as naive as the Brazilians who were unaware of the deficiency in their system. As the officials fail to realize the essence of Robert’s analysis he considers the US officials to be educated in a similar superficial manner in which the Brazilians are being educated. I think the text sarcastically points out the general nature of the Brazilian people. If it is the matter of learning Physics that is dealt such superficially then it must be the same with all the other subjects and even official state related matter. This is because the officials that would eventually come out of such a learning system would not let any such peers survive who may be learned enough to raise... This paper approves that about the topic of the essay Feynman believes that it was very clearly deceiving. He was alarmed to realize that Brazilian personnel who were being trained as teachers were hardly aware of the core concepts of practical Physics and had only learned word to word the exact text in the books instead of ever realizing the meaning of that text. Absence of actual understanding led to the inability of the students to relate the physics concepts to practical situations. This essay makes a conclusion that if it is the matter of learning Physics that is dealt such superficially then it must be the same with all the other subjects and even official state related matter. This is because the officials that would eventually come out of such a learning system would not let any such peers survive who may be learned enough to raise points of objection upon their modes of conduct. Since the entire Brazilian system is the resultant of a single educational system running throughout the country, it would behave just as similar to the larger in majority students who would suppress any others who would like to raise questions during lectures. They would refer to this question raising action as a deviation from learning not only for the student itself but also for all those others around him. So, the text may seems to be entirely about the knowing of something not as merely as learning it superficially, but in reality it was a critical analysis of the perspective o f the people of Brazil and specially the higher ups of the system of the state.

Risk assessment and Epidemiology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Risk assessment and Epidemiology - Essay Example Our discussion will be related to India where Tuberculosis or TB is a massive health problem. Here in this module we will examine the pathogen that is the cause of such a massive health disaster, and also make an epidemiological risk assessment for the same . Tuberculosis is caused by the pathogenic species Mycobacterium Tuberculosis as well as Mycobacterium Bovis. TB is spread generally through aerosols, when a person sneezes, or through cough and cold. Among the total cases in the world India caters 1/5th of the total cases with a whooping 2 million of patients .An approximately 0.3-0.4 million people die from TB in India each year .Tuberculosis affects the central nervous system, lymphatic system, circulatory system .Here the pathogen takes the most simplified route for the disease to spread i.e. through air .In 1990 The World Health Organization had declared TB to be the 7th most deadliest disease in the world. It also points out to a bare fact that TB shall continue to remain in that position till 2020 .Three years later in 1993 WHO declared TB as a global emergency. Such statistics acts as a pointer to India's position which remains grin . Exposure to the disease can take place from various fonts, these are i) nature of the contact that take place ii) the frequency of the contact iii) Frequency of the infected person in a certain region. Here the frequency may vary from villages to towns and cities .The hygiene and the healthcare habits of individuals , their lifestyle system , values also plays an important factor for the rapid spread of the disease .O'Grady and Riley in 1963 had experimentally demonstrated that Tubercle Bacilli was the causative agent that help in the transmission of the pathogenic

Values, Goals and Good Journalism Essay Example for Free

Values, Goals and Good Journalism Essay Power of the press†¦ Glory of the byline†¦ Thrill of being among the first to know†¦ These are just some of the legendary benefits that a person gets when he or she takes journalism for a profession. The public looks up to journalists as those who do very interesting things – meeting the rich and famous, having access to powerful people, experiencing heady encounters and getting paid for doing these things. However, power is always accompanied by a corresponding responsibility. Ideally, a journalist should present the truth about an event or issue. He must be well-grounded in the standards and ethics of journalism before he even attempts to write a story. He must bear in mind the importance of confidentiality, objectivity and fairness. He must understand that journalism is a presentation of facts and facts alone. There really are some instances when a writer tends to inject personal bias in the story he is writing. These happen when he inserts personal feeling and opinion and when he sees himself not as an observer but a participant in the event that he is covering. There are also cases when a journalist stacks the facts so as to prove one side of the story or to take the position the paper prefers. Personal biases must be set aside when presenting a news. What one writes reflects who he is. If his commitment to journalistic principles and public service is compromised with financial gains, this may lead to offenses such as libel, sensationalism, invasion of privacy, obstruction of justice, and obscenity. To prevent getting charged of any of these, the good values of a journalist must urge him to exercise good judgment which eventually shapes credibility. The best way to be the best writer, however, is to treat journalism as a vital calling. Every writing must be inspired by the manner the Bible was written. The Bible emphasizes the necessity of objectivity in reporting. As Luke writes: Since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught. Objectivity must be transparent in all kinds of reporting. In recent years, priests’ involvement in sex scandals had been a sensitive topic worldwide. This is just right as journalists must carry out their duty of presenting even the dark side of the news. The Bible describes God as a creator and man as His image-bearer. Sometimes, a journalist needs to report on the contrast between man’s sinfulness and God’s holiness. Journalists do not have to preach in stories; however, they can work towards honest selection of details. There is no question about God’s involvement in human history. In Deuteronomy 29, Moses addressed the Israelites: Your eyes have seen all that the Lord did in Egypt to Pharaoh, to all his officials and to all his land. With your own eyes, you saw those great trials, those miraculous signs and great wonders. But to this day, the Lord has not given you a mind that understands or eyes that see or ears that hear. In writing his own piece, a writer must provide the context but must follow the Bible in depicting God’s grace and man’s sinfulness. If in the Bible Jesus says to Thomas, â€Å"Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed,† same goes to a journalist who does not go to press even when ten people tell him the same thing. In conclusion, good journalism entails truth-telling even when it hurts. For him to become the best journalist he can be, a journalist must possess only two things: commitment to truth and a biblical worldview in apprehending reality accurately. Reference Brucker, Herbert. Communication is Power: Unchanging Values in a Changing Journalism. New York: Oxford University Press. 1973.

Computer Outsourcing Security Risk :: Globalization Essays Papers

Computer Outsourcing Security Risk Inherent security risks of outsourcing -- what the CIO should know who were previously competitors are partnering in order that they may share risk, preserve capital, and gain market share from other competitors. It seems as though some companies soon will have outsourced so much of their business they will be in danger of becoming a business in name or brand only. While there can be many business benefits to outsourcing business functions and partnering with vendors and others in your business, the downside is always that it brings much added risk to your supporting systems, networks, and business critical applications. The more your network is extended and the more nodes or hosts are added-then all the more intrusion vectors (new and vulnerable risk points) become available for possible exploit and resultant harm to your company. As you connect your networks with various outsourcers, partners, vendors, alliances, and even consortiums you may, and probably will, connect with whom they do. The above connection scenario changes the established trust model from explicit and understood trust to one of transitive implicit trust. This is the "I may trust you but I do not necessarily trust who you trust" scenario. What can make the issue all the more complicated is that the company you outsource critical functions to may outsource some of its critical functions as well, and, you may not realize the potential impact to you until after long-term contracts are signed. Then it may be too late to amend contracts in order to protect your company from potential loss and liability. More connections to your network will bring more intrusion vectors or risks. These risk points must be tightly controlled and monitored at all times. Some companies may have hundreds of network connections, using a variety of communication methods, e.g. Internet, frame relay, leased line, microwave, wireless, satellite, fiber, ad nauseum. With so much variety in your connection types how will you know if a breach (successful or unsuccessful) in your network has o ccurred? How can you know what is happening in your partner's networks, or in the networks of those whom he is connected to? It may likely be through your friendly partner connections that you become open to intrusion, not from a more direct outside intrusion. Watch those trusted host relationships carefully. Are you ready to respond to a breach of your network? Usually, agreements are made and contracts are signed before a project team becomes involved in implementing a connection for a partner or an outsourcing contract.

Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer Essay

What are the underling factors that contribute to the psychological profile of men and women serial killers? One may hypothesize that serial killing is triggered by insanity, mental illness, or psychopathy. However, serial killing has been defined by killing at least three or more individuals in a given time (Bartels, 2009). At the same time one might assume that a serial killer is a predator that hunts for human prey. Another hypothesis might be that enacting on their fantasies may perhaps drive them to violence and then they kill and kill again. Nonetheless, the victim is determined by one thing; the mind of the serial killer. Serial killing has been explained as mystifying, bewildering and it is repeatedly hard to grasp and understand why one is able to kill another human being. We often see these perpetrators participate in lunacy or just plain insanity, however, many are not insane nor do they suffer from mental illness (Knight, 2006). Still the axiology of serial murders are still considered ambiguous to whether the source is sociological, biological and psychological philosophies in which psychologist and criminal profilers keep researching. Knight states, â€Å"That serial murders have been chronicled throughout history since the 1400’s. Then by the 1960’s there was an increased number of serial killers, in which one may ask why? Could we apply Bowlby’s attachment theory, personality disorder, and physical abuse as a child to explain such heinous crimes? We do know that serial killing comes in many different forms and in the way each offender has committed these crimes. We also know some kill alone while others kill with partners, although each crime is different; one can see that almost all serial murders are acted upon with the purpose and motive of the fascination each killer perceives they must act out. When we talk about men serial killers, many remember the most notorious like John Wayne Gacy, Ted Bundy, Jeffery Dahmer, Robert Hanson, Larry Gene Bell, Denise Radar and Charles Manson. Although criminal profiling has been around for a long time; John Douglas and Robert Ressler has made criminal profiling into an art. The art of profiling is using deductive reasoning and depends greatly on the human experience and common sense by utilizing psychological, behavioral, criminal and investigative profiling. The main key to capturing a serial killer is to get into the mind of that serial killer (White, 2010). Because of these two men we are now able to see some comparable patterns between these serial killers. 1978 is when investigators uncovered the remains of 29 young men buried underneath and around the home of 36 year old building contractor in suburban Chicago, named John Wayne Gacy. In addition to the bodies in his crawl space he also admitted to killing 4 more between 1972 and 1978. These young men were found to be given marijuana and alcohol, had been sexually assaulted and then strangled and then buried underneath Gacy’s home. When John was young, he was the only boy of 2 sisters. However, his sisters were adored by their father, but John was the brunt of his father’s criticism and felt that his mother was the only person that made his life bearable. His father wanted a tough and masculine son, however John was a very sensitive child. By the age of ten, John would take his mother’s panties and bury them in the backyard very similar to the way he buried the bodies under his house years later.

Persuasive speech: People should support organic food production Essay

Ladies and Gentlemen, Have you ever thought about the food you eat? Of course you have, we all do. We think about the taste, the ingredients and the health benefits, but we don’t question where the food comes from and we barely think about all the chemicals and toxins added to it, because most foods that we are surrounded with are all the same, most food companies that we enjoy are not organically produced, but are just easier to obtain. We see organic food so rarely and are encouraged so rarely by it that we don’t even think of it as a priority, we just think of it as an expensive rare market. I believe that people all around the world should support organic food production. In 1983 genetically modified food was introduced to the world, and by 1996 it was found on super-market shelves worldwide. It was a huge commercial explosion. Genetically modified food is produced from plants and animals that scientists have been able to modify by changing the gene structure, which can alter foods characteristics. One of the first examples of genetically modified foods is the FlavrSavr tomato; as you know when a tomato ripens, it reddens becomes soft, and naturally rots. Scientists then chemically were able to change the gene that causes this, meaning the tomato can ripen for longer, redden for longer, and rot slower than it naturally would. One of the main reasons why we should support organic food growth productions is for the better benefits for our bodies and health. As farmers plant seeds, they slowly inject the growing food with numerous amounts of toxins to make it genetically modified/ non-organic. The worst additions would be the pesticide toxins and irradiation. Pesticides are horrible toxins used on growing plants like tomatoes and oranges, which cause health risks. The Environmental Health News found a new case study showing that â€Å"prenatal exposure to pesticides, can decrease a child’s IQ and are proven to be more harmful to boys than girls as their developing brains are much more vulnerable.† Close to the end of the process when all the toxins have been added to create a sure non-organic product, irradiation is accustomed for non-organic products as it’s meant to kill the harmful bacteria and microorganisms in the plant, however naturalbias.com states â€Å"The purpose of  irradiation is to kill pathogens, but the ironic part is that it doesn’t kill all pathogens and certainly destroys most of the food’s good qualities. Irradiation also changes the chemical structure of the molecules within the food and can transform them into mutagenic and carcinogenic compounds that promote cancer.† All of this combined creates an awful product that I’m sure no one wants to consume. Laura Fillmore, from Gardnerville, Nevada, states in the NY Times â€Å"organic production is better for the land. Not probably better, but definitely better.† You probably don’t think about this much, because as teenagers we eat a lot of unhealthy products and although we are aware of some consequences and possibilities, we don’t seem to be very concerned about where the food comes from. Nevertheless we are concerned for the future of our planet, we want to help, we do the little things that make a difference; we recycle, we turn off the lights, we care about our future and our planet. But did you know that eating organic food can actually benefit the earth just as much? The chemicals added to the non-organic plants, suck all the nutrients out of the soil, damaging it, until it can start to restore, which can take over a hundred years. The land becomes useless, that’s why the US government is already looking for foreign land, which they could use for their farming. Due to these plantation techniques soil erosion occurs, it forms large amounts of dust in the air and when mixed with wind creates air pollution, which is v ery environmentally unfriendly, that’s why organic food is a better choice for farmers and for us to support. It’s an easy way we can help save our planet and our health. Organic food does tend to be more expensive, but if people can support organic food and demand its production, maybe we can create a better world for the next generation of people, it’s hard but it’s a goal that’s worth striving and completing! If we want to help our planet, our countries, and our selves we need think carefully about what we’re eating. We need to support organic food production we need to choose the best there is; which means the simplest. Israel, Brett, Environmental Health Sciences. â€Å"Environmental health news: Widely used pesticide seems to harm boys brains more than girls, 2012.† Accessed 18th September, 2012. http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/news/2012/boys-and-chlorpyrifos Miller, Vin, Rage Wellness. â€Å"Natural bias: 7 major reasons to go organic, 2009.† Accessed 18th September, 2012. http://naturalbias.com/7-major-reasons-to-go-organic/ Savvy Vegetarians Inc. â€Å"What Is Organic Food and why we Should Eat It?† Accessed 19th September, 2012. http://www.savvyvegetarian.com/articles/what-is-organic-food.php

Nylon Stockings and Denier Spam

Nylon Stockings and Denier Spam Nylon Stockings and Denier Spam Nylon Stockings and Denier Spam By Maeve Maddox Puzzled by a spate of strange comments being posted on my teaching blog lately, I looked to Google search for an explanation. The comments range from vacuous puffs written in a strange kind of English, I’ve been exploring for a little bit for any high quality articles or blog posts on this kind of area. Exploring in Yahoo I at last stumbled upon this site. Reading this info So i am happy to convey that I’ve an incredibly good uncanny feeling I discovered just what I needed. I most certainly will make certain to don’t forget this website and give it a glance regularly. to utter gibberish: l watches, and he led free on some chair asks umbrella that he knocked well longer flat as his credit. By on it had tightly see with it appeared smaller jerry of ourselves! His samay or watches. Polar felt accountable heart, at monitor came the better around the watches or jake matter. Weight wouldve that he safely. I nodded crossing then silvery, which grotesquely had then of the organic hour. In searching the web, I hoped to find out what benefit anyone could derive from posting this kind of drivel in a comment section. I never did discover a satisfactory explanation, but I have learned a new expression: denier spam. As I grew up in an age when nylon stockings were a staple of every womans wardrobe, the only association the word denier had for me was: denier: a unit of fineness for silk, rayon, or nylon yarn equal to the fineness of a yarn weighing 0.05 gram for each 450 meters of length or one gram for each 9000 meters b : the fineness of a silk, rayon, or nylon yarn or fabric. Could denier spam be an especially fine variety of spam? I kept looking until the penny finally dropped. The word I was seeing wasnt denier [dÉ™n-yÄ ], as in 20-denier nylon, it was denier [dÄ ­-nÄ «Ã‰â„¢r], as in one who denies. Doh! Apparently denier spam is the sort that comes from one-issue readers who use a blogs comment section to soapbox lengthy denials of global warming, the geological age of the earth, the perils of permitting people to carry concealed weapons, etc. Its a relief to have learned the correct pronunciation and meaning of denier spam, but Im still at a loss to understand the purpose of what Ive come to call empty puff spam and gibberish spam. Whats the benefit to those who place it? Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Expressions category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:5 Uses of Infinitives"Replacement for" and "replacement of"Starting a Business Letter with Dear Mr.