Foundation’s Edge CHAPTER ONE COUNCILMAN

COUNCILMAN â€Å"I don't believe it, of course,† said Golan Trevize standing on the wide steps of Seldon Hall and looking out over the city as it sparkled in the sunlight. Terminus was a mild planet, with a high water/land ratio. The introduction of weather control had made it all the more comfortable and considerably less interesting, Trevize often thought. â€Å"I don't believe any of it,† he repeated and smiled. His white, even teeth gleamed out of his youthful face. His companion and fellow Councilman, Munn Li Compor who had adopted a middle name in defiance of Terminus tradition, shook his head uneasily. â€Å"What don't you believe? That we saved the city?† â€Å"Oh, I believe that. We did, didn't we? And Seldon said that we would, and he said we would be right to do so, and that he knew all about it five hundred years ago.† Compor's voice dropped and he said in a half-whisper, â€Å"Look, I don't mind your talking like this to me, because I take it as just talk, but if you shout it out in crowds others will hear and, frankly, I don't want to be standing near you when the lightning strikes. I'm not sure how precise the aim will be.† Trevize's smile did not waver. He said, â€Å"Is there harm in saying that the city is saved? And that we did it without a war?† â€Å"There was no one to fight,† said Compor. He had hair of a buttery yellow, eyes of a sky blue, and he always resisted the impulse to alter those unfashionable hues. â€Å"Have you never heard of civil war, Compor?† said Trevize. He was tall, his hair was black, with a gentle wave to it, and he had a habit of walking with his thumbs hitched into the soft-fibered sash he always wore. â€Å"A civil war over the location of the capital?† â€Å"The question was enough to bring on a Seldon Crisis. It destroyed Hannis's political career. It put you and me into the Council last election and the issue hung†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He heisted one hand slowly, back and forth, like a balance coming to rest on the level. He paused on the steps, ignoring the other members of the government and the media, as well as the fashionable society types who had finagled an invitation to witness Seldon's return (or the return of his image, at any rate). All were walking down the stairs, talking, laughing, glorying in the correctness of everything, and basking in Seldon's approval. Trevize stood still and let the crowd swirl past him. Compor, having walked two steps ahead, paused – an invisible cord stretching between them. He said, â€Å"Aren't you coming?† â€Å"There's no hurry. They won't start the Council meeting until Mayor Branno has reviewed the situation in her usual flat-footed, one-syllable-at-a-time way. I'm in no hurry to endure another ponderous speech. – Look at the city!† â€Å"I see it. I saw it yesterday, too.† â€Å"Yes, but did you see it five hundred years ago when it was founded?† â€Å"Four hundred ninety-eight,† Compor corrected him automatically. â€Å"Two years from now, they'll have the hemimillennial celebration and Mayor Branno will still be in the office at the time, barring events of, we hope, minor probability.† â€Å"We hope,† said Trevize dryly. â€Å"But what was it like five hundred years ago when it was founded? One city! One small city, occupied by a group of men preparing an Encyclopedia that was never finished!† â€Å"Of course it was finished.† â€Å"Are you referring to the Encyclopedia Galactica we have now? What we have isn't what they were working on. What we have is in a computer and it's revised daily. Have you ever looked at the uncompleted original?† â€Å"You mean in the Hardin Museum?† â€Å"The Salvor Hardin Museum of Origins. Let's have the full name, please, since you're so careful about exact dates. Have you looked at it?† â€Å"No. Should I?† â€Å"No, it isn't worth it. But anyway – there they were – a group of Encyclopedists, forming the nucleus of a town – one small town in a world virtually without metals, circling a sun isolated from the rest of the Galaxy, at the edge, the very edge. And now, five hundred years later, we're a suburban world. The whole place is one big park, with all the metal we want. We're at the center of everything now?† â€Å"Not really,† said Compor. â€Å"We're still circling a sun isolated from the rest of the Galaxy. Still at the very edge of the Galaxy.† â€Å"Ah no, you're saying that without thinking. That was the whole point of this little Seldon Crisis. We are more than the single world of Terminus. We are the Foundation, which sends out its tentacles Galaxy-wide and rules that Galaxy from its position at the very edge. We can do it because we're not isolated, except in position, and that doesn't count.† â€Å"All right. I'll accept that.† Compor was clearly uninterested and took another step downward. The invisible cord between them stretched farther. Trevize reached out a hand as though to haul his companion up the steps again. â€Å"Don't you see the significance, Compor? There's this enormous change, but we don't accept it. In our hearts we want the small Foundation, the small one-world operation we had in the old days – the days of iron heroes and noble saints that are gone forever.† â€Å"Come on!† â€Å"I mean it. Look at Seldon Hall. To begin with, in the first crises in Salvor Hardin's day, it was just the Time Vault, a small auditorium in which the holographic image of Seldon appeared. That was all. Now it's a colossal mausoleum, but is there a force-field ramp in the place? A slideway? A gravitic lift? – No, just these steps, and we walk down them and we walk up them as Hardin would have had to do. At odd and unpredictable times, we cling in fright to the past.† He flung his arm outward passionately. â€Å"Is there any structural component visible that is metal? Not one. It wouldn't do to have any, since in Salvor Hardin's day there was no native metal to speak of and hardly any imported metal. We even installed old plastic, pink with age, when we built this huge pile, so that visitors from other worlds can stop and say, ‘Galaxy! What lovely old plastics' I tell you, Compor, it's a sham.† â€Å"Is that what you don't believe, then? Seldon Hall?† â€Å"And all its contents,† said Trevize in a fierce whisper. â€Å"I don't really believe there's any sense in hiding here at the edge of the Universe, just because our ancestors did. I believe we ought to be out there, in the middle of everything.† â€Å"But Seldon says you're wrong. The Seldon Plan is working out as it should.† â€Å"I know. I know. And every child on Terminus is brought up to believe that Hari Seldon formulated a Plan, that he foresaw everything five centuries ago, that he set up the Foundation in such a way that he could spot certain crises, and that his image would appear holographically at those crises, and tell us the minimum we had to know to go on to the next crisis, and thus lead us through a thousand years of history until we could safely build a Second and Greater Galactic Empire on the ruins of the old decrepit structure that was falling apart five centuries ago and had disintegrated completely by two centuries ago.† â€Å"Why are you telling me all this, Golan?† â€Å"Because I'm telling you it's a sham. It's all a sham. – Or if it was real to begin with, it's a sham now! We are not our own masters. It is not we who are following the Plan.† Compor looked at the other searchingly. â€Å"You've said things like this before, Golan, but I've always thought you were just saying ridiculous things to stir me up. By the Galaxy, I actually think you're serious.† â€Å"Of course I'm serious!† â€Å"You can't be. Either this is some complicated piece of fun at my expense or you're out of your mind.† â€Å"Neither. Neither,† said Trevize, quiet now, hitching his thumbs into his sash as though he no longer needed the gestures of hands to punctuate passion. â€Å"I speculated on it before, I admit, but that was just intuition. That farce in there this morning, however, has made it suddenly all. quite plain to me and I intend, in turn, to make it quite plain to the Council.† Compor said, â€Å"You are crazy!† â€Å"All right. Come with me and listen.† The two walked down the stairs. They were the only ones left – the last to complete the descent. And as Trevize moved slightly to he fore, Compor's lips moved silently, casting a voiceless word in the direction of the other's back: â€Å"Fool!† Mayor Harla Branno called the session of the Executive Council to order. Her eyes had looked with no visible sign of interest at the gathering; yet no one there doubted that she had noted all who were present and all who had not yet arrived. Her gray hair was carefully arranged in a style that was neither markedly feminine nor imitation masculine. It was simply the way she wore it, no more. Her matter-of-fact face was not notable for beauty, but somehow it was never for beauty that one searched there. She was the most capable administrator on the planet. No one could, or did, accuse her of the brilliance of the Salvor Hardins and the Hober Mallows whose histories enlivened the first two centuries of the Foundation's existence, but neither would anyone associate her with the follies of the hereditary Indburs who had ruled the Foundation just prior to the time of the Mule. Her speeches did not stir men's minds, nor did she have a gift for the dramatic gesture, but she had a capacity for making quiet decisions and sticking by them as long as she was convinced she was right. Without any obvious charisma, she had the knack of persuading the voters those quiet decisions would be right Since by the Seldon doctrine, historical change is to a large degree difficult to swerve (always barring the unpredictable, something most Seldonists forget, despite the wrenching incident of the Mule), the Foundation might have retained its capital on Terminus under any conditions. That is a â€Å"might,† however. Seldon, in his just finished appearance as a five-century-old simulacrum, had calmly placed the probability of remaining on Terminus at 87.2 percent. Nevertheless, even to Seldonists, that meant there was a 12.8 percent chance that the shift to some point closer to the center of the Foundation Federation would have been made, with all the dire consequences that Seldon had outlined. That this one-out-of-eight chance did not take place was surely due to Mayor Branno. It was certain she would not have allowed it. Through periods of considerable unpopularity, she had held to her decision that Terminus was the traditional seat of the Foundation and there it would remain. Her political enemies had caricatured her strong jaw (with some effectiveness, it had to be admitted) as an underslung granite block. And now Seldon had backed her point of view and, for the while at least, that would give her an overwhelming political advantage. She had been reported to have said a year earlier that if in the coming appearance Seldon did back her, she would consider her task successfully completed. She would then retire and take up the role of elder statesperson, rather than risk the dubious results of further political wars. No one had really believed her. She was at home in the political wars to an extent few before her had been, and now that Seldon's image had come and gone there was no hint of retirement about her. She spoke in a perfectly clear voice with an unashamed Foundation accent (she had once served as Ambassador to Mandrels, but had not adopted the old Imperial style of speech that was so fashionable now – and was part of what had been a quasi-Imperial drive to the Inner Provinces). She said, â€Å"The Seldon Crisis is over and it is a tradition, and a wise one, that no reprisals of any kind – either in deed or in speech – be taken against those who supported the wrong side. Many honest people believed they had good reason for wanting that which Seldon did not want. There is no point in humiliating them to the point where they can retrieve their self-respect only by denouncing the Seldon Plan itself. In turn, it is a strong and desirable custom that those who supported the lost side accept the loss cheerfully and without further discussion. The issue is behind us, on both sides, forever.† She paused, gazed levelly at the assembled faces for a moment, then went on, â€Å"Half the time has passed, people of the Council half the thousand-year stretch between Empires. It has been a time of difficulties, but we have come a fang way. We are, indeed, almost a Galactic Empire already and there remain no external enemies of consequence. â€Å"The Interregnum would have endured thirty thousand years, were it not for the Seldon Plan. After thirty thousand years of disintegration, it might be there would be no strength left with which to form an Empire again. There might be left only isolated and probably dying worlds. â€Å"What we have today we owe to Hari Seldom and it is upon his long-dead mind that we must rely far the rest. The danger henceforward, Councillors, is ourselves, and from this point on there must be no official doubt of the value of the Flan. Let us agree nosy, quietly and firmly, that there are to be no official doubts, criticisms, or condemnations of the Plan. We must support it completely. It has proved itself over five centuries. It is the security of humanity and it must not be tampered with. Is it agreed?† There was a quiet murmur. The Mayor hardly looked up to seek visual proof of agreement. She knew every member of the Council and how each would react. In the wake of the victory, there would be no objection now. Next year perhaps. Not now. She would tackle the problems of next year next year. Always except for – â€Å"Thought control, Mayor Branno?† asked Golan Trevize, striding down the aisle and speaking loudly, as though to make up for the silence of the rest. He did not bother to take his seat which, since he was a new member, was in fine back row. Branno still did not look up. She said, â€Å"Your views, Councilman Trevize?† â€Å"That the government cannot impose a ban on free speech; that all individuals – most certainly including Councilmen and Councilwomen who have been elected for the purpose – have a right to discuss the political issues of the day; and that no political issue can possibly be divorced from the Seldon Plan:† Branno folded her hands and looked up. Her face was expressionless. She said, â€Å"Councilman Trevize, you have entered this debate irregularly and were out of order in doing so. However, I asked you to state your views and I will now answer you. â€Å"There is no limit to free speech within the context of the Seldon Plan. It is only the Plan itself that limits us by its very nature. There can be many ways of interpreting events before the image makes the final decision, but once he makes that decision it can be questioned no further in Council. Nor may it be questioned in advance as though one were to say, ‘If Hari Seldon were to state thus-and-so, he would be wrong.'† â€Å"And yet if one honestly felt so, Madam Mayor?† â€Å"Then one could say so, if one were a private individual, discussing fine matter in a private context.† â€Å"You mean, then, that the limitations on free speech which you propose are to apply entirely and specifically to government officials?† â€Å"Exactly. This is not a new principle of Foundation law. It has been applied before by Mayors of all parties. A private point of view means nothing; an official expression of opinion carries weight and can be dangerous. We have not come this far to risk danger now.† â€Å"May I point out, Madam Mayor, that this principle of yours has been applied, sparsely and occasionally, to specific acts of Council. It has never been applied to something as vast and indefinable as the Seldon Plan.† â€Å"The Seldon Plan needs the protection most, for it is precisely there that questioning can be most fatal.† â€Å"Will you not consider, Mayor Branno†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Trevize turned, addressing now the seated rows of Council members, who seemed one and ail to have caught their breath, as though awaiting the outcome of a duel. â€Å"Will you not consider, Council members, that there is every reason to think that there is no Seldon Plan at all?† â€Å"We have all witnessed its workings today,† said Mayor Branno, even more quietly as Trevize became louder and more oratorical. â€Å"It is precisely because we have seen its workings today, Councilmen and Councilwomen, that we can see that the Seldon Plan, as we have been taught to believe it to be, cannot exist.† â€Å"Councilman Trevize, you are out of order and must not continue along these lines.† â€Å"I have the privilege of office, Mayor.† â€Å"That privilege has been withdrawn, Councilman.† â€Å"You cannot withdraw the privilege. Your statement limiting free speech cannot, in itself, have the force of law. There has been no formal vote in Council, Mayor, and even if there were I would have the right to question its legality.† â€Å"The withdrawal, Councilman, has nothing to do with my statement protecting the Seldon Plan.† â€Å"On what, then, does it depend?† â€Å"You are accused of treason, Councilman. I wish to do the Council the courtesy of not arresting you within the Council Chamber, but waiting at the door are members of Security who will take you into custody as you leave. I will ask you now to leave quietly. If you make any ill-considered move, then, of course, that will be considered a present danger and Security will enter the Chamber. I trust you will not make that necessary.† Trevize frowned. There svgs absolute silence in the hall. (Did everyone expect this – everyone but himself and Compor?) He looked back at the exit. He saw nothing, but he had no doubt that Mayor Branno was not bluffing. He stammered in rage. â€Å"I repre – represent an important constituency, Mayor Branno†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"No doubt, they will be disappointed in you.† â€Å"On what evidence do you bring forth this wild charge?† â€Å"That will appear in due course, but be assured that we have all we need. You are a most indiscreet young man and should realize that someone may be your friend and yet not be willing to accompany you into treason:† Trevize whirled to meet Compor's blue eyes. They met his stonily. Mayor Branno said calmly, â€Å"I call upon all to witness that when I made my last statement, Councilman Trevize turned to look at Councilman Compor. Will you leave now, Councilman, or will you force us to engage in the indignity of an arrest within the Chamber?† Golan Trevize turned, mounted the steps again, and, at the door, two men in uniform, well armed, fell in on either side. And Harla Branno, looking after him impassively, whispered through barely parted lips, â€Å"Fool!† Liono Kodell had been Director of Security through all of Mayor Branno's administration. It was not a backbreaking job, as he liked to say, but whether he was lying or not, one could not, of course, tell. He didn't look like a liar, but that did not necessarily mean anything. He looked comfortable and friendly, and it might well be that this was appropriate for the job. He was rather below the average height, rather above the average weight, had a bushy mustache (most unusual for a citizen of Terminus) that was now more white than gray, bright brown eyes, and a characteristic patch of primary color marking the outer breast pocket of his drab coverall. He said, â€Å"Sit down, Trevize. Let us keep this on a friendly basis if we can.† â€Å"Friendly? With a traitor?† Trevize hooked both his thumbs in his sash and remained standing. â€Å"With an accused traitor. We have not yet come to the point where accusation – even by the Mayor herself – is the equivalent of conviction. I trust we never do. My job is to clear you, if I can. I would much rather do so now while no harm is done – except, perhaps, to your pride – rather than be forced to make it all a matter of a public trial. I hope you are with me in this.† Trevize didn't soften. He said, â€Å"Let's not bother with ingratiation. Your job is to badger me as though I were a traitor. I am not one, and I resent the necessity of having to have that point demonstrated to your satisfaction. Why should you not have to prove your loyalty to my satisfaction?† â€Å"In principle, none. The sad fact, however, is that I have power on my side, and you have none on yours. Because of that, it is my privilege to question, and not yours. If any suspicion of disloyalty or treason fell upon me, by the way, I imagine I would find myself replaced, and I would then be questioned by someone else, who, I earnestly hope, would treat me no worse than I intend to treat you.† â€Å"And how do you intend to treat me?† â€Å"Like, I trust, a friend and an equal, if you will so treat me.† â€Å"Shall I stand you a drink?† asked Trevize bitterly. â€Å"Later, perhaps, but for now, please sit down. I ask it as a friend.† Trevize hesitated, then sat. Any further defiance suddenly seemed meaningless to him. â€Å"What now?† he said. â€Å"Now, may I ask that you will answer my questions truthfully and completely and without evasion?† â€Å"And if not? What is the threat behind it? A Psychic Probe?† â€Å"I trust not.† â€Å"I trust not, too. Not on a Councilman. It will reveal no treason, and when I am then acquitted, I will have your political head and the Mayor's too, perhaps. It might almost be worth making you try a Psychic Probe.† Kodell frowned and shook his head slightly. â€Å"Oh no. Oh no. Too much danger of brain damage. It's slow healing sometimes, and it would not be worth your while. Definitely. You know, sometimes, when the Probe is used in exasperation†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"A threat, Kodell?† â€Å"A statement of fact, Trevize. – Don't mistake me, Councilman. If I must use the Probe I will, and even if you are innocent you will have no recourse.† â€Å"What do you want to know?† Kodell closed a switch on the desk before him. He said, â€Å"What I ask and what you answer to my questions will be recorded, both sight and sound. I do not want any volunteered statements from you, or anything nonresponsive. Not at this time. You understand that, I am sure.† â€Å"I understand that you will record only what you please,† said Trevize contemptuously. â€Å"That is right, but again, don't mistake me. I wilt not distort anything you say. I will use it or not use it, that is all. But you will know what I will not use and you will not waste my time and yours. â€Å"We'll see.† â€Å"We have reason to think, Councilman Trevize† – and somehow the touch of added formality in his voice was evidence enough that he was recording – â€Å"that you have stated openly, and on a number of occasions, that you do not believe in the existence of the Seldon Plan.† Trevize said slowly, â€Å"If I have said so openly, and on a number of occasions, what more do you need?† â€Å"Let us not waste time with quibbles, Councilman. You know that what I want is an open admission in your own voice, characterized by its own voiceprints, under conditions where you are clearly in perfect command of yourself.† â€Å"Because, I suppose, the use of any hypno-effect, chemical or otherwise, would alter the voiceprints?† â€Å"Quite noticeably.† â€Å"And you are anxious to demonstrate that you have made use of no illegal methods in questioning a Councilman? I don't blame you .. â€Å"I'm glad you do not blame me, Councilman. Then let us continue. You have stated openly, and on a number of occasions, that you do not believe in the existence of the Seldon Plan. Do you admit that?† Trevize said slowly, choosing his words, â€Å"I do not believe that what we call Seldon's Plan has the significance we usually apply to it. â€Å"A vague statement. Would you care to elaborate?† â€Å"My view is that the usual concept that Hari Seldon, five hundred years ago, making use of the mathematical science of psychohistory, worked out the course of human events to the last detail and that we are following a course designed to take us from the First Galactic Empire to the Second Galactic Empire along the line of maximum probability, is naive. It cannot be so:' â€Å"Do you mean that, in your opinion, Hari Seldon never existed?† â€Å"Not at all. Of course he existed.† â€Å"That he never evolved the science of psychohistory?† â€Å"No, of course I don't mean any such thing. See here, Director, I would have explained this to the Council if I had been allowed to, and I will explain it to you. The truth of what I am going to say is so plain†¦Ã¢â‚¬  The Director of Security had quietly, and quite obviously, turned off the recording device. Trevize paused and frowned. â€Å"Why did you do that?† â€Å"You are wasting my time, Councilman. I am not asking you for speeches.† â€Å"You are asking me to explain my views, aren't you?† â€Å"Not at all. I am asking you to answer questions – simply, directly, and straightforwardly. Answer only the questions and offer nothing that I do not ask for. Do that and this won't take long.† Trevize said, â€Å"You mean you will elicit statements from me that will reinforce the official version of what I am supposed to have done.† â€Å"We ask you only to make truthful statements, and I assure you we will not distort them. Please, let me try again. We were talking about Hari Seldon.† The recording device was in action once more and Kodell repeated calmly, â€Å"That he never evolved the science of psychohistory?† â€Å"Of course he evolved the science that we call psychohistory,† said Trevize, failing to mask his impatience, and gesturing with exasperated passion. â€Å"Which you would define – how?† â€Å"Galaxy! It is usually defined as that branch of mathematics that deals with the overall reactions of large groups of human beings to given stimuli under given conditions. In other words, it is supposed to predict social and historical changes – â€Å" â€Å"You say ‘supposed to' Do you question that from the standpoint of mathematical expertise?† â€Å"No,† said Trevize. â€Å"I am not a psychohistorian. Nor is any member of the Foundation government, nor any citizen of Terminus, nor any†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Kodell's hand raised. He said softly, â€Å"Councilman, please!† and Trevize was silent. Kodell said, â€Å"Have you any reason to suppose that Hari Seldon did not make the necessary analysis that would combine, as efficiently as possible, the factors of maximum probability and shortest duration in the path leading from the First to the Second Empire by way of the Foundation?† â€Å"I wasn't there,† said Trevize sardonically. â€Å"How can I know?† â€Å"Can you know he didn't?† â€Å"No.† â€Å"Do you deny, perhaps, that the holographic image of Hari Seldon that has appeared during each of a number of historical crises over the past five hundred years is, in actual fact, a reproduction of Hari Seldon himself, made in the last year of his life, shortly before the establishment of the Foundation?† â€Å"I suppose I can't deny that.† â€Å"You ‘suppose.' Would you care to say that it is a fraud, a hoax devised by someone in past history for some purpose?† Trevize sighed. â€Å"No. I am not maintaining that.† â€Å"Are you prepared to maintain that the messages that Hari Seldon delivers are in any way manipulated by anyone at all?† â€Å"No. I have no reason to think that such manipulation is either possible or useful.† â€Å"I see. You witnessed this most recent appearance of Seldon's image. Did you find that his analysis – prepared five hundred years ago – did not match the actual conditions of today quite closely?† â€Å"On the contrary,† said Trevize with sudden glee. â€Å"It matched very closely.† Kodell seemed indifferent to the other's emotion. â€Å"And yet, Councilman, after the appearance of Seldon, you still maintain that the Seldon Plan does not exist.† â€Å"Of course I do. I maintain it does not exist precisely because the analysis matched so perfectly.† Kodell had turned off the recorder. â€Å"Councilman,† he said, shaking his head, â€Å"you put me to the trouble of erasing. I ask if you still maintain this odd belief of yours and you start giving me reasons. Let me repeat my question.† He said, â€Å"And yet, Councilman, after the appearance of Seldon, you still maintain that the Seldon Plan does not exist.† â€Å"How do you know that? no one had a chance to speak to my informer friend, Compor, after the appearance.† â€Å"Let us say we guessed, Councilman. And let us say you have already answered, ‘Of course I do' If you will say that once more without volunteering added information, we can get on with it.† â€Å"Of course I do,† said Trevize ironically. â€Å"Well,† said Kodell, â€Å"I will choose whichever of the ‘Of course I do's' sounds more natural. Thank you, Councilman,† and the recording device was turned off again. Trevize said, â€Å"Is that it?† â€Å"For what I need, yes.† â€Å"What you need, quite clearly, is a set of questions and answers that you can present to Terminus and to all the Foundation Federation which it rules, in order to show that I accept the legend of the Seldon Plan totally. That will make any denial of it that I later make seem quixotic or outright insane.† â€Å"Or even treasonable in the eyes of an excited multitude which sees the Plan as essential to the Foundation's safety. It will perhaps not be necessary to publicize this, Councilman Trevize, if we can come to some understanding, but if it should prove necessary we will see to it that the Federation hears.† â€Å"Are you fool enough, sir,† said Trevize, frowning, â€Å"to be entirely uninterested in what I really have to say?† â€Å"As a human being I am very interested, and if an appropriate time comes I will listen to you with interest and a certain amount of skepticism. As Director of Security, however, I have, at the present moment, exactly what I want† â€Å"I hope you know that this will do you, and the Mayor, no good.† â€Å"Oddly enough, I am not at all of that opinion. You will now leave. Under guard, of course.† â€Å"Where am I to be taken?† Kodell merely smiled. â€Å"Good-bye, Councilman. You were not perfectly co-operative, but it would have been unrealistic to have expected you to be.† He held out his hand. Trevize, standing up, ignored it. He smoothed the creases out of his sash and said, â€Å"You only delay the inevitable. Others must think as I do now, or will come to think that way later. To imprison me or to kill me will serve to inspire wonder and, eventually, accelerate such thinking. In the end the truth and I shall win.† Kodell took back his hand and shook his head slowly. â€Å"Really, Trevize,† he said. â€Å"You are a fool.† It was not till midnight that two guards came to remove Trevize from what was, he had to admit, a luxurious room at Security Headquarters. Luxurious but locked. A prison cell by any name. Trevize had over four hours to second-guess himself bitterly, striding restlessly across the floor for much of the period. Why did he trust Compor? Why not? He had seemed so clearly in agreement. – No, not that. He had seemed so ready to be argued into agreement. – No, not that, either. He had seemed so stupid, so easily dominated, so surely lacking a mind and opinions of his own that Trevize enjoyed the chance of using him as a comfortable sounding board. Compor had helped Trevize improve and hone his opinions. He had been useful and Trevize had trusted him for no other reason than that it had been convenient to do so. But it was useless now to try to decide whether he ought to have seen through Compor. He should have followed the simple generalization: Trust nobody. Yet can one go through life trusting nobody? Clearly one had to. And who would have thought that Branno would have had the audacity to pluck a Councilman out of the Council – and that not one of the other Councilmen would move to protect one of their own? Though they had disagreed with Trevize to their very hearts; though they would have been ready to bet their blood, drop by drop, on Branno's rightness; they should still, on principle, have interposed themselves against this violation of their prerogatives. Branno the Bronze she was sometimes called, and she certainly acted with metallic rigor – Unless she herself was already in the grip – No! That way led to paranoia! And yet – His mind tiptoed in circles, and had not broken out of uselessly repetitive thought when the guards came. â€Å"You will have to come with us, Councilman,† the senior of the two said with unemotional gravity. His insignia showed him to be a lieutenant. He had a small scar on his right cheek, and he looked tired, as though he had been at his Job too long and had done too little – as might be expected of a soldier whose people had been at peace for over a century. Trevize did not budge. â€Å"Your name, Lieutenant.† â€Å"I am Lieutenant Evander Sopellor, Councilman.† â€Å"You realize you are breaking the law, Lieutenant Sopellor. You cannot arrest a Councilman.† The lieutenant said, â€Å"We have our direct orders, sir.† â€Å"That does not matter. You cannot be ordered to arrest a Councilman. You must understand that you will be liable for court-martial as a result.† The lieutenant said, â€Å"You are not being arrested, Councilman.† â€Å"Then I don't have to go with you, do I?† â€Å"We have been instructed to escort you to your home.† â€Å"I know the way.† â€Å"And to protect you en route.† â€Å"From what? – Or from whom?† â€Å"From any mob that may gather.† â€Å"At midnight?† â€Å"It is why we have waited for midnight, sir. – And now, sir, for your protection we must ask you to come with us. May I say – not as a threat but as a matter of information – that we are authorized to use force if necessary.† Trevize was aware of the neuronic whips with which they were armed. He rose with what he hoped was dignity. â€Å"To my home, then. – Or will I find out that you are going to take me to prison?† â€Å"We have not been instructed to lie to you, sir,† said the lieutenant with a pride of his own. Trevize became aware that he was in the presence of a professional man who would require a direct order before he would lie – and that even then his expression and his tone of voice would give him away. Trevize said, â€Å"I ask your pardon, Lieutenant. I did not mean to imply that I doubted your word.† A ground-car was waiting for them outside. The street was empty and there was no sign of any human being, let alone a mob – but the lieutenant had been truthful. He had not said there was a mob outside or that one would form. He had referred to â€Å"any mob that may gather.† He had only said â€Å"may.† The lieutenant had carefully kept Trevize between himself and the car. Trevize could not have twisted away and made a run for it. The lieutenant entered immediately after him and sat beside him in the back. The car moved off. Trevize said, â€Å"Once I am home, I presume I may then go about my business freely – that I may leave, for instance, if I choose.† â€Å"We have no order to interfere with you, Councilman, in any way, except insofar as we are ordered to protect you.† â€Å"Insofar? What does that mean in this case?† â€Å"I am instructed to tell you that once you are home, you may not leave it. The streets are not safe for you and I am responsible for your safety.† â€Å"You mean I am under house arrest.† â€Å"I am not a lawyer, Councilman. I do not know what that means.† He gazed straight ahead, but his elbow made contact with Trevize's side. Trevize could not have moved, however slightly, without the lieutenant becoming aware of it. The car stopped before Trevize's small house in the suburb of Flexner. At the moment, he lacked a housemate – Flavella having wearied of the erratic life that Council membership had forced upon him – so he expected no one to be waiting for him. â€Å"Do I get out now?† Trevize asked. â€Å"I will get out first, Councilman. We will escort you in.† â€Å"For my safety?† â€Å"Yes, sir.† There were two guards waiting inside his front door. A night-light was gleaming, but the windows had been opacified and it was not visible from outside. For a moment, he was indignant at the invasion and then he dismissed it with an inward shrug. If the Council could not protect him in the Council Chamber itself, then surely his house could not serve as his castle. Trevize said, â€Å"How many of you do I have in here altogether? A regiment?† â€Å"No, Councilman,† came a voice, hard and steady. â€Å"Just one person aside from those you see, and I have been waiting for you long enough.† Harla Branno, Mayor of Terminus, stood in the door that led into the living room. â€Å"Time enough, don't you think, for us to talk?† Trevize stared. â€Å"All this rigmarole to†¦Ã¢â‚¬  But Branno said in a low, forceful voice. â€Å"Quiet, Councilman. – And you four, outside. Outside! – All will be well in here.† The four guards saluted and turned on their heels. Trevize and Branno were alone.

History of African American Music

The history of African American music has been characterized by a mixture among various forms of music. Country blues, urban blues, New Orleans Jazz, Bebop, big-band jazz, and rhythm and blues, have all influenced each other profoundly. These influences flowed back and forth among the various forms. But, black gospel music had only a very limited effect on popular styles, until a few church-trained artists, such as Sam Cooke and Ray Charles, began to incorporate gospel styling into their popular work.The result is usually described as â€Å"soul music,† a mix of blues, rhythm and blues, and gospel voices. But, if Ray Charles was one of the â€Å"originators† of soul music, â€Å"Aretha Franklin reshaped it,† by bringing even more of her gospel background to bear on secular love songs (Wade and Picardie 27). By combining popular elements with her stunning voice, her great musicianship, and the feeling for a song that she learned in church, Aretha became one of the greatest soul singers to ever live. Aretha Franklin is a well-known pop, R&B, and gospel singer.She has been nicknamed â€Å"The Queen of Soul† and is an internationally known artist and a symbol of pride in the African American community. Her popularity soared in 1967 when she released an album containing songs â€Å"I Never Loved a Man†, â€Å"Respect†, and â€Å"Baby I Love You. † Throughout her career she has achieved fifteen Grammy Awards, Lifetime Achievement Award, National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences Legend Awards, and many Grammy Hall of Fame Awards. In 1987 she became the first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.Time magazine chose her as one of the most influential artists and entertainers of the 20th century. She sang at Dr. Martin Luther King’s funeral and at former President Bill Clinton’s inaugural party. Although she has all these accomplishments and awards there are other reasons that have driven Fr anklin to fame and landed her on the front cover of Time magazine on June 28, 1968. The reasons I believe allowed Aretha Franklin to become so successful are the following: Her family’s involvement with religion, the inspiring people that surrounded her, and the pain she suffered.It is clear that because her family’s involvement with religion would be one reason why Aretha Franklin became as famous as a Gospel singer. Some people would say that her love for religion is unbelievable, but after researching her childhood it is very believable. Her father, Reverend Clarence LaVaugh Franklin lived in Shelby Mississippi and preached while living the life of a sharecropper. As soon as he had enough money, he would move to Memphis, Tennessee to become a pastor of two churches. After a couple of years he attended LeMoyne College, and he studied Education and English Literature.With his education he was able to bring a more liberal view to his preaching’s. Then he moved t he family to Buffalo, New York. When he had the resources, he moved the family again to Detroit, Michigan were he settled and became a pastor of a churched called New Bethel Baptist Church. He quickly became one of the most famous pastors in the city of Detroit. Aretha was two years old when they made their final move, she would grow up here and grab the emotion of Church and incorporate it into her music. Aretha Franklin’s mom, Barbara V. Skaggers, served as choir director and pianist.Aretha describes her mom as â€Å"a Superb singer, her voice was clear and distinctive†. (Franklin and Ritz, 6) Her parents taught her how to sing with great pride. This was a big issue because the late ‘50s, early ‘60s was a time of turmoil for African Americans. Her father especially tried to instill pride into her. He was a Civil Rights activist and he was a close colleague with Dr. Martin Luther King. With her parents keeping her involved in Church she was bound to become one of the world’s greatest singers. At around age 12, the father recognized Aretha’s talent as a singer.So he took her on the road with his traveling gospel show. This was important because it shows the kind of support Aretha received from her family. It was said, â€Å"She was a spellbinding performer at the age of fourteen. † (Franklin, 3) So her family really supported and inspired her to become a gospel singer. What also made her a great artist was that she had inspiring people all around her. Aretha grew up in Detroit which at the time was a rousing city or a city of hope for the African Americans running away from the brutality of the South.Though Detroit still had its problems such as race riots, many famous musicians grew up there. Also since New Bethel Baptist Church was so prominent, many musicians and political leaders used Reverend Franklin’s pulpit as a platform to sing or speak to the Black’s of Detroit. Aretha was introduced to cla ssical music by Smokey Robinson’s sister Sylvia Burston. She listened to well known local DJ’s like Ruth Brown and Senator Brystal Brown. When Aretha was younger, she would ride her bike to the local park, and on her way home she would stop by a night club where you could here B.B. King perform. She says, â€Å"You could hear the soft sound of his guitar all the way to the sidewalk (Franklin and Ritz, 22). National and local political leaders would give there speeches. Speakers such as Dr. Adam Clayton Powell, Sr. , Dr. Martin Luther King, and Reverend Jesse Jackson would speak powerfully to the church. Aretha was directly influenced by Miriam Anderson, Sammy Davis, and Roy Wilkins. Detroit was overflowing with talent and speakers which I believe also contributed to Aretha’s success.Pain was probably what really drove Aretha Franklin’s success. As stated before, Franklin’s family was highly religious and was continually involved in the Church. But that doesn’t mean that she hadn’t been through a tremendous amount of pain. Early in life her mother and father got a divorce. The father was better suitable to raise Aretha and her four Siblings. The mother moved to Buffalo, New York and tried to make regular visits to see her children. She was supported her children in the best way she could, but when Aretha needed her, she still was not reachable.Matters became worst a few years later when Aretha’s mom dies of a stroke. Aretha described her mom by saying â€Å"she was the absolute lady† (Smith, 3). At age 15 she had her first child and two years later another would come. But Aretha still wanted to go out and be with friends, so her grandmother usually babysat for her periodically. In a time when Black Activism, Feminism, and Sexual Liberation were high, she needed to provide for herself. So when Aretha was old enough and was ready to start performing, she hired a man named Ted White to be her manager. He later became her husband. In the future she would divorce him for a famous actor which would end in divorce, too. Even though in 1968 to 1969, Franklin’s career was rising rapidly. She was still described by her Producer Jerry Wexler as â€Å"a person whose depressions runs deeper than the sea† (Ritchie Unterberger, 3). Then one of Franklin’s highest admirers, gospel giant Mahalia Jackson died. Right after her death a extremely emotional gospel album was released my Aretha â€Å"Amazing Grace† This record was considered to be one of the most emotional records of its time.Much of the pain that Aretha suffered was not really publicized, but still it had to be one of the reasons for her to have such a powerful voice. Aretha Franklin was a successful artist and still inspires musicians today. Her voice is still described as incredible. She has all the awards that she needs to show her talent. Works cited Franklin, Aretha, and David Ritz. Aretha: From These Roots. New York: Villard, 1999. Print. Carroll, Jillian. Aretha Franklin. Chicago: Raintree, 2004. Print

No topic, just answer the following questions Assignment - 3

No topic, just answer the following questions - Assignment Example The syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome. Down syndrome can be diagnosed during pregnancy and after the birth of the baby. During pregnancy screening and diagnostic testing, are appropriate tests that detect whether a baby is likely to have Down syndrome or the likelihood of getting transferring the genetic abnormalities to the child. After birth, physical examination of the baby is enough for the doctor to diagnose the child with Down syndrome. This a birth abnormality in which a baby is born without the skull and the brain. This defect is a neural tube defect. This type of defect occurs during the first month of pregnancy before even the mother realizes she is pregnant. The causes of anencephaly are not well understood. However, there are factors that increase chances of having babies getting affected. Such factors include low intake of folic acid before pregnancy and in the early period of pregnancy. Mothers, who have low iron content due to low folic intake, are at risk of getting children with anencephaly. Anencephaly can be confirmed by diagnosis during and after pregnancy. During pregnancy, prenatal testing/screening testing is done to confirm the defect and other conditions. In some cases, the abnormality is usually not detected during pregnancy and confirmed immediately after birth through physical examination. An egg is usually released from the ovary during every normal cycle of the woman’s menses. At ovulation, the cervical mucus becomes fluid and elastic; this allows sperms to enter rapidly into the uterus into the fallopian tube for fertilization. Fertilization results when a sperm penetrates the egg. Five to eight days after fertilization has taken place, the blastocyst attaches itself to the uterine lining near the fundus in a process referred to as implantation. This process is completed within nine days. After the implantation, the next process involves the development of

Memo Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Memo - Essay Example I've prepared an analysis about the use of vulnerability assessment systems and intrusion detection systems in your company, just like you asked me. You specifically asked whether the use of both systems will be a waste of resources and a duplication of efforts. My analysis suggests that VAS and IDS have separate internal functions for the security of the computer systems and both must be a part of a computer system for complete security control. Vulnerability assessment systems are those security scanning tools that assess level of threat that can penetrate a system. The main job of such tools is to scan networks, servers, firewalls, routers, and applications and report system vulnerabilities. "Generally, the tools can detect known security flaws or bugs in software and hardware, determine if the systems are susceptible to known attacks and exploits, and search for system vulnerabilities such as settings contrary to established security policies". (Becker, 1999) New threats are discovered each day thus the vulnerability assessment tools must be updated regularly. Any new weaknesses such as security flaws and bugs would need to be patched in the system so that no holes left for malwares, viruses, spywares etc. to infect the system. Another feature of a vulnerability assessment system is that it generates reports which can tell a user what and where weaknesses exist and how to fix them. (Becker, 1999) Intrusion Detection Systems Vulnerability assessment is the first step in securing the system from threats by taking appropriate security precautions and patch-ups. However, new threats are raised everyday and some might pass through the vulnerability precautions. Therefore the next logical step is to "monitor the system for intrusions and unusual activities". Intrusion detection systems automatically raise the alarm in case of a security breach and inform the Computer Incident Respond Team for their help. "By analyzing the information generated by the systems being guarded, IDSs help determine if necessary safeguards are in place and are protecting the system as intended". Important to note here is that IDS don't protect the system, they just pinpoint the location of the attack and collect the information related to the attack and the attacker. (Becker, 1999) IDS tools are used by the CIRT to generate both technical and management reports since it provide background information on the type of attack and the attacker. IDS can also give recommendations to the management about the courses of action to take to seal the breach. (Becker, 1999) Example The difference can easily be understood by the following example. Vulnerability assessment just checks how susceptible a person is to catching a cold in winters. The vulnerabilities that the system can find is that not enough warm clothes are worn and heater is not being used. The intrusion detection system checks that cold air in hitting the person directly which may be harmful, and the point of intrusion was the chest of the person. So a person gets the information from the vulnerability system that he needs to have a heater and wear warm clothes and from the intrusion

Cb2 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Cb2 - Assignment Example This, therefore, means that the social class can be based the objective of classification, how people think of others and the reputation that an individual claims or deserves. This is different from income in that a person may have high-income levels and yet his or her reputation is low within the society. Therefore, a person’s income is just one of the factors that can determine the social class but it is not the social class itself. An achieved status refers to the status that is acquired through struggle and merit. This could be the status related to educational status or research achievements. It is therefore related to skills, abilities and efforts. On the other hand, an ascribed status is considered to be beyond the person’s control. This is based, therefore on attributes of a person that are fixed and natural. The classes related to sex, race and deformity are ascribed rather than acquired. Income is just one of the factors likely to be considered in describing the social class. However earning more money does not always lead to a change in social class (Wood, 2012). This is because influence, success and the impact that a person has in the society are always stronger indicators of social class than income. Therefore, a person may be earning a lot of money but his or her reputation and influence remain the same. Rich consumers can be grouped as old money or nouveau depending on how they display their wealth. For old money rich consumers, their wealth remains unseen. They are rich but do not care to display conspicuous consumption in any way. The Nouveau, on the other hand, are those rich consumers who display their spending and consumption with the motive of getting a reputation and a social class upgrade (Wood, 2012). They have symbolic self-completion such as flashy cars to display their wealth. In most contexts, the term social class is controversial. This means that different

Human Trafficking Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Human Trafficking - Research Paper Example In addition to that, the paper will focus on two police reports which describe a range of human trafficking incidents, particularly child sexual exploitation. By examining these cases, the dissertation intends to clarify what exactly is driving the demand for trafficked individuals, influencing perceptions of the crisis, and what exactly is constraining legal initiatives to end the exploitation. Sources that will be included: (1) studies on target groups for trafficking, (2) United State human trafficking laws, (3) cities where trafficking is highest, (4) factors influencing the demand for trafficking, and (5) people’s perception influencing human trafficking. Furthermore, the research hopes to show that although some view the inadequacy of federal agencies, courts, or political parties as the central reason for the limited success in preventing human trafficking, it is societies’ ‘idea’ of human trade that is the root cause of both inaction and the discrim inatory nature of responses to the abusive practice. These misperceptions operate across multiple dimensions, including race, gender, ethnicity, class, caste, culture, and geography. Such misconceptions can hinder the proper health care services provided for trafficked victims. By assuming that all victims are of the same background or subpopulation may result in practitioners maintaining false assumptions and/or obtaining incomplete and inaccurate histories; resulting in unanticipated and potentially hazardous treatment strategies and outcomes. The research paper will then take a quick look at the effects of public misconceptions on the health care sector and at how further understanding of these misconceptions may help improve health care services provided to trafficked victims. The paper will specifically explain the importance of training physical and mental health professionals at identifying certain victims and their needs, as well as the importance of educating the public. In addition, the paper will analyze the effect misconceptions have on a full range of trafficked victims including sexually exploited children and immigrant women. Such an analysis will provide the basis for further research and hopefully initiate further interest on how societal misconceptions shape the dynamics and trends of human trafficking and the laws surrounding it. PLAN Human trafficking Human Trafficking is a considered to be a modern name for slavery. It is basically immoral crime against humanity. It encompasses recruitment, transportation, harboring or receipt of person by coercion, fraud, misrepresentation for exploitation purpose (Hart, 2009). Moreover, exploitation can have different shapes like sexual exploitation, forced labor or slavery. Furthermore, human trafficking is practiced more or less in every country around the globe. Every year, several children, men and women are trafficked either in their own country or to other countries. Reasons for growth of trafficki ng Today, the world we are living in is changing, because of continuous new innovation in technology. Globalization has resulted in increased growth of tourism sector worldwide, which has reduced the national barriers between

Posttraumatic Stress Disorders in Ambulance Paramedics Essay

Posttraumatic Stress Disorders in Ambulance Paramedics - Essay Example Critical incident stress debriefing is an intervention that is purposed to promote the effective processing of distressing events through normalization of reactions and preparation for anticipated future experiences (Feder, 2008). There is a treatment that is designed to take care of the emergency service personnel who could attend the critical incident session voluntarily or when instructed by a superior. The main aim of the review that was conducted was to identify literature that is related to interventions aimed at preventing and treating the disorder. Though emergency work is rewarding, the emergency personnel are more vulnerable to post-traumatic stress in long term and short term. This is because they are supposed to deal with potentially traumatizing circumstances. Some of the distressing situations include: mass incidents, major fires, burns patients, murder scenes, violent scenes, accident involving children, cot death and many others (Frieman, 2003). It is clear that emergency medical technicians are at higher risk of stress compared to other medical professionals and fire-fighters; they normally get involved in disasters and may be at high risk of severe stress disorder, which can lead to post-traumatic stress. ... Various research methods were used in this review and it is clear that, various databases were performed and research strategy made as wide as possible. These research methods included hand searching for journals, internet searching, keywords to search online database among others. The research that was done showed that the mass disasters are the major contributors of stress and that emergency workers are always the victims of this disorder (Feder, 2008). Medical study was carried to evaluate the risks of stress and to summarise the methodological limitations of the conducted research. The limitations found include: varying degree of trauma, small sample size and lack of uniformity, low response rate, sampling bias, non-prospective studies, no control group and timing variance. The researchers concluded that, it was not possible to fully determine the effectiveness of critical incident stress and it was cautious to conduct a proper evaluation. A recent review recommended that research should be on psychological debriefing of emergency attendance as a main concern for the study. According to Brewin (2005), methodological matters concern with determination of the level of psychological impairment after a disastrous incident. The methodological issues include: comparability issues and dimensions of disaster. The discussion of these issues was done, including the need to precisely define the study cases and population. Some researchers were concerned with the interpretation of questionnaire and the interview results; these can give different psychopathological estimates. Moreover, the type of data that was collected varies broadly and this leads to problems of generalisation of results. The aspect of

Preparing for Old Age Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Preparing for Old Age - Essay Example James Henry was born in a family who struggled a lot financially. His parents were mere farmers who lost a lot of their earthly possessions during the â€Å"Dust Bowl† phenomenon. Being the fifth child, he only heard about their glory days when life was good and seemed promising. He only saw how difficult it had been for his parents and siblings to make things bearable. Mr. Henry says he also had to make a lot of sacrifices himself for him to help the family in their problem. As a young child, he helped his parents in the fields whenever he can and however he can. He learned to work hard even at a tender age especially during summer vacations. For him, it was quite easy to accept such kind of life then because they had few neighbors and most of them are not his friends anyway. Although there was this particular child whom he envied because they had a nice house and car and he was always dressed well, he never had strong feelings against his circumstances. As a matter of fact, he enjoyed helping his parents and siblings because their work time became their bonding time. They have strong relationships despite their financial struggles. Being the youngest in the family, Mr. Henry supposes he saw more of his parents’ hardships when they grew old. He says that when his brothers and sisters married, he was left alone to attend to his parents who started having problems of being old such as getting sick and weak.

US Education system Essay Example for Free

US Education system Essay The spectrum of education which ranges on the world scene is highly progressive, dynamic and competitive. Education system of a particular country not only influences the way the basics are taught, but it highly affects the thinking, assimilating and the expression of the particular group. It is greatly affected by the thinking and expectations of the existing form of government, the decision makers and the geographic region. The historical background also plays a key role in the evolution of this dynamic process. It stimulates growth and evolution of the person as well as the country. The destiny of a country is very clearly guided and linked by the kind of educational measures it has taken a decade ago. The education system of USA is very open and creative, it allows for mental stimulation, open thinking, research and analysis, but in the last decade or two it has become weak in the area of science and mathematics. The balance of the creativity and skills of observation and analysis are both essential for well rounded educational system. In current times, especially under the regime of Mr. Bush, emphasis has been to restructure the educational system to stimulate more science and mathematics in the curriculum, from early elementary years of basic education. Back to basics has been the key slogan for new education system based on strengthening the science, mathematics and creativity, making the full complete circle. The realization has been made to strengthen the weaknesses, by comparing and contrasting with the systems of Asia and Europe, with special emphasis on Japan, Germany and Europe. â€Å"America has reading literacy rate at 98% of population over age 15, but ranks below average in science and mathematics understanding. The poor performance has pushed public and private efforts such as the No Child Left Behind Act. In addition, the ratio of college-educated adults entering the workforce to general population (33%) is slightly below the mean of other developed countries (35%) and rate of participation of the labor force in continuing education is high. As No Child Left Behind Act focuses on reading and math as primary target for improvement, other instructional areas have not benefited. There is much discussion within educational circles about the impact of singularly focusing on reading and math as tested areas for improvement and its impact on other areas of learning† (â€Å"Education in the United States†). The cost of education is another factor which affects the education system. The United States Department of Education recently released a statement detailing the average cost per pupil in public school as $3,500 USD per pupil, whereas average private school cost per pupil was $7,200 USD. In contrast , the private schools in Asia average around $1,400 USD per year and in Germany it is $4,500. The cost of education determines the availability of educational opportunities to minorities within the society, which shapes the overall characteristics of the nation on the whole (â€Å"Education in the United States†). â€Å"The family, as well as peers and school, plays a crucial role in forming students attitudes toward schooling and academics. In the case of Japan, research has documented that studying and homework are central concerns of Japanese families (Stevenson and Stigler, 1992; Lewis, 1995)† (The Role of School†). The school curriculum focuses directly or indirectly in teaching correct attitudes, moral values and to developing character. They aim at creating students who are literate as well as attuned to the basic values of culture and society. Teachers are highly honored and have high social status. Teaching duties extend to the moral instruction and character development of the children. â€Å"During the tests, students are up really late. They study all night. Virtually all are up to midnight. They dont sleep before then. When that goes on, I wish they would use their time better†. It is a more rigorous system based on core values of the society (â€Å"Education in Japan†). Germany offers dual system of education, with its strong emphasis on apprenticeships. The German education system provides different paths for students based on individual ability (â€Å"Education in Germany†). Children enter Grundschule at age 6, and students of all levels of ability remain together as a group through the fourth grade of Grundschule (sixth grade in two states). Following Grundschule, when most students are around 10 years old, the German school system tracks students of differing abilities and interests into different school forms. The support for this system of education remains strong among teachers, students, and parents of differing educational and social class background (An Overview of the German System). For much of its history, education in the United States was segregated (or even only available) based upon race. For the most part, African Americans received very little to no education before the Civil War. In the south where slavery was legal, many states enacted laws which made it a crime for blacks to even be able to read, much less attend school alongside white classmates. After the Civil War and emancipation, blacks still received little help from the states themselves. The federal government, under the Radical Republicans, set up the Freedman’s Bureau to help educate and protect former slaves (â€Å"Education in the United States†). Regardless of history, politics and government, schools need to nurture and build on the cultural norms that contribute to growth. â€Å"Strong schools have strong cultures evidenced by their heroes and heroines, rituals and ceremonies, and shared beliefs and values† (Deal). Education is this whole experience of growth and nurturance.America needs to grow more in its culture, values and inspiration. Works Cited: Education in the United States. Wikipedia. 20 Feb 2007. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 20 Feb 2007. http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Education_in_the_United_States. Education in Japan. Wikipedia. 15 Feb 2007. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 20 Feb 2007. http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Education_in_Japan. Education in Germany. Wikipedia. 18 Feb 2007. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 20 Feb 2007. http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Education_in_Germany. The Role of School in Japanese Adolescents Lives: Family Influences on Adolescent Development and School Participation. Archived Information. 1998. The Educational System in Japan: Case Study Findings. 20 Feb 2007. http://www. ed. gov/pubs/JapanCaseStudy/chapter4c. html. An Overview of the German System. Archived Information. 1998. The Educational System in Germany: Case Study Findings. 20 Feb 2007. http://www. ed. gov/pubs/GermanCaseStudy/chapter1a. html. Deal, Terrence E. , and Allan A. Kennedy. Culture and School Performance. Effective Schools and School Improvement Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development: Alexandria, Virginia, 1989: 140-41.

Study Into Female Pain During Childbirth

Study Into Female Pain During Childbirth SUMMARY Delivery is a one of the miracle of every womens life. The mothers suffer much distress. After child birth due to painful perineum. Perineal pain is most commonly associated with child birth by vaginal delivery. Pain following episiotomy appears to be universal. The mother undergoing episiotomy is characterised by greater blood loss in conjunction with delivery, and there is a risk of improper wound healing and increased pain during early puerperium. Various interventions are found to aid the healing process, which include cleanliness, applying ice pack, topical application by dry heat (infrared therapy), sitz bath performance of kegels exercise and perineal care. Any outward incident in the family may cause shees and stain which in turn will affect the psychological well being of the mother. Aromatherapy is effective for reducing labor pain, decreasing stress hormones, alleviating depression and anxiety, and increasing interactive behaviors between parent and child. Lavender oil is a great aid to perineal healing. So, the investigator assessed the effectiveness of lavender oil sitz bath on reduction of episiotomy wound healing and psychological wellbeing among postnatal mothers in Gani hospital, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu. Objectives of the study were To assess and compare the pre and post test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing among the experimental group of postnatal mothers. To assess and compare the pre and post test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing among the control group of postnatal mothers. To compare the pre test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing between the experimental and the control group of postnatal mothers. To compare the post test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing between the experimental and the control group of postnatal mothers. To associate the post test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing among the control group of postnatal mothers with selected demographic variables The assumptions of this study were The assumptions of the study were. Unhealing and inadequate care of episiotomy wound may predispose to vulval haematoma, infection, wound dehiscence and scar endometriosis. Lavender oil sitz bath may improve the wound healing psychological wellbeing. Hypotheses of the study were RH1 There is a significant difference between pre and post test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing among the experimental group of postnatal mothers. RH2 There is a significant difference between pre and post test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing among the control group of postnatal mothers. RH3 There is a significant difference in pre test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing between the experimental and the control group of postnatal mothers. RH4 There is a significant difference in post test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing between the experimental and the control of group of postnatal mothers. RH5 There is a significant association of post test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing among the experimental and the control group of postnatal mothers with selected demographic variables. Review of literature collected for the studies related to The literature gathered from exclusive review is depicted under the following heading. Section A: Literature related to episiotomy. Section B: Literature related to episiotomy wound healing. Section C: Literature related to psychological wellbeing of mother with episiotomy. Section D: Literature related to lavender oil sitz bath on episiotomy wound healing and psychological wellbeing The conceptual frame work opted for the study was based Ludwig Von Bertalarffy `s general system theory and it provided a complete framework in order to achieve the objectives of the study. The research design selected for the study was true experimental pre and post only design was used and the study was conducted in the postnatal ward in Gani Hospital, Tirunelveli Dist, and Tamil Nadu. The tool used for data collection consisting of demographic variables which include age, education status, work pattern, type of the family and parity. The assessment level of episiotomy wound and psychological wellbeing among the experimental group and the control group were measured by using REEDA scale and structured observation check list . The tool was validated by 2 experts in the field of obstetrician and gynecologist and 3 experts in obstetrician and gynecologist nursing personnel and the reliability of the tool was established by interpreter reliability method. The value of the reliability was r=0.9. The tool was highly reliable to conduct the main study. The pilot study was conducted in Gani Hospital, Tirunelveli district among 6 samples out of which 3 were in the experimental group and 3 were in the control group of postnatal mothers. The experimental group received lavender oil sitz bath but no one had lavender oil sitz bath in control group. The finding revealed the feasibility, reliability and practicability of the tool for conducting main study. No modification was made after pilot study. Pilot study period was 4 consecutive days from28-4-2010 to1-5-2010 from 9am to5pm. The main study was conducted at Gani Hospital, Tirunelveli district. Tamil Nadu. The 60 postnatal mothers who fulfilled the inclusive and exclusive criteria were selected for the study ,out of which 30 mothers were the experimental group and 30 of them were the control group . Sample was selected by using simple random sampling method by Lottery method. Mothers who came under group A lottery will come under the experimental group of mother and mother who came under group B lottery will come under the control group of mothers. The investigator gave lavender oil sitz bath to the experimental group . Lavender oil sitz bath is Lavender oil is added with warm water in a basin and asked the mother to sit for 15 minutes 2 times per day about 3 days in the experimental group. Hospital routine care was given to the control group. The collected data was analyzed and interpreted based on the objective by using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings of the study revealed that the calculated t value was 8.75 which showed highly statistical significant difference in post test level of episiotomy wound status and psychological wellbeing among the experimental group and the control group of postnatal mother at p

Baz Luhrmanns Romeo And Juliet Review Film Studies Essay

Baz Luhrmanns Romeo And Juliet Review Film Studies Essay Baz Luhrmann brings a unique visual style to William Shakespeares renaissance tragedy Romeo and Juliet. Set in a modern Verona Beach, Luhrmann sets the assertive and trendy tone of his adaptation within a decaying Miami City. Within minutes, the opening TV prologue hurls us into the white-hot intensity of the two warring families, bombarding the audience with chaotic action scenes and passion. Constructing an edgy and dynamic environment, his brash interpretation uses rapid cuts and erratic zooming techniques to create a comic strip style sequence against the multicultural backdrop of the graffiti scattered streets of Verona. Though effective, the restlessness of the camera becomes confusing, slicing the action into short, sharp images that can mystify rather than illuminate. Such fervent action so soon into the film is dizzying and unexpected. Luhrmann attracts the audience with his lively cinema style, speeding up the action to hype up the confrontation and the rivalry of the two f amilies alongside an intense soundtrack of contemporary and popular music. As a contemporary film director, Luhrmann clearly values the younger audience who would usually only come into contact with Shakespeare in a school environment. This could explain the roaring energy of car engines and elaborate guns instead of horses and swords originally used in earlier productions. Encompassing the elegance of Shakespeares text, Luhrmann introduces the star crossed lovers in a tender exchange of affectionate eye contact across the shimmering light of an aquarium. The pair follow each other across the length of the glass in an enduring and delicately youthful and romantic moment, capturing the innocence of the fated pair. Luhrmann creates a sensual and glamorously romantic atmosphere whenever the lovers meet alone. The balcony and swimming pool scene in particular surrounds the pair in a glimmering sheen of water and light. Luhrmanns use of atmospheric lighting leaves the audience to swoon, drinking in the glow of the dreamy eyed couple as they exchange their most iconic and enduring dialogue. Though their love is prohibited by tradition, ego and prejudice in the society of Verona, Luhrmann exposes Shkespeares drama to a contemporary world without limits, modernising the play with radical scenes of drug use, drag queens and public brawls. A couple so concerned w ith the traditional morals of their families in a world of law breaking and promiscuity comes as a stark contrast which at times, is unconvincing. As the audience enjoy the rowdy and loose morality at the Capulet Ball, it is initially somewhat difficult to believe that two young people in love would not act upon their passionate attraction. However, the undeniable beauty of the couples love is infectious. As they lie in the church lit by thousands of candles, the beauty of Shakespeares romantic tale is undeniable in the soft, atmospheric style with which Luhrmann combines light and opulent religious design to glamorize the tragic scene in which the love affair comes to an end. The language used in this film is lifted from the pages of Shakespeares text; which is surprising and pleasing as the dialogue fits seamlessly into the style of the film. Luhrmann has stripped the dialogue right down the necessities in order to sell to a commercial younger audience who may not understand the complexities of the original dialogue. The bare bones of the text are delivered confidently, notably by Friar Lawrence. Actor Pete Postlethwaites portrayal of the Friar as a new age herbalist gives the audience a glimpse of Shakespearean imagery and rhythm as he optimistically agrees to marry the pair in a bid to turn the households rancour to pure love. Similarly, Harold Perrineaus portrayal of Mercutio adds an exotic and audacious tempo to the film. Perrineau portrays him as entrancing and compelling, emphasising Shakespeares skilfully witty character, which becomes most poignant during his speech before they are due at the house of Capulet. The volatile style in which he prese nts this famous speech builds from a jovial and bawdy exchange with Romeo at the steps of a run-down theatre, to an explosive and passionate conclusion. Delivered naturally, Luhrmann heightens suspense by climaxing the speech with a furiously bright light and sound of a single firework. The audience are brought to a peak of tension and anticipation, unsure where this volatile character will take them next. As well as presenting an aggressively modern adaptation with the setting and language of the play, Luhrmanns interpretation of Shakespeares tragedy is styled inventively by costume designer Kym Barrett. The clothing is eclectic and riotously colourful, complimenting the up-beat and psychedelic style of the film. Reflecting the disposition of the characters, Kym Barrett dresses the characters as a portrayal of their position in the society within the plot. The contrasting morality within the generations and conflicting traditions between the families is illustrated by the way they dress. The Capulet boys for instance, are dressed in smart and formal suits throughout the film, proudly reflecting their traditional Latino heritage which Luhrmann portrays. Creating a contrast, the Montague boys are dressed in very casual beach shirts and board shorts, illustrating the less mature and jovial features of their characters. In a comparison to the younger members of the cast, the parental and authoritative figures are dressed in expensive and regal clothing, suggesting the traditional values of their society. Both women at the head of each household are seen to be dressed in the luxurious clothing typical of wives of influential men. As their wealth is illustrated in the elegance and glamour of their dress, the authority that their husbands hold within the city is also established. It is interesting to note that Luhrmann includes a modern style drag queen in this adaptation, dressed in a provocative and bold sequined outfit. Though not unknown in the other Shakespearean plays, cross dressing, most involve women dressing as men. Mercutios flamboyant style of dress at the Capulets ball is an expression of sexuality ineffectual to the plot, not a central theme to the resolution of the plot as in many of Shakespeares plays. Luhrmann heightens the aesthetic sexuality in his film adaptation to attract a younger and more contemporary audience. The romantic characters of the fil m remain innocent. Dressed to reflect her youth, Clare Danes instils the naivety and youthfulness of Juliet in a modest white dress and plain style of hair and make-up. Similarly, Romeo reflects her adolescence and compliments her dress, choosing a simple black suit and tie. Before they fall in love, the audience can pick up on their compatibility by the harmonizing styles of the lovers. The costumes and setting of the film generate an up-beat and boldly elaborate overall vision. The audience are bombarded by an audacious and lively interpretation complimented by an energetic soundtrack and attractive cast. Though incredibly pleasing on the eye, Luhrmanns concentration on the aesthetics of the film does sacrifice the story and dialogue for style. However, this interpretation of Shakespeares classic does bring renaissance drama into the 21st century. Luhrmann tells the story in an edgy and fast paced film which smashes the Shakespeares stereotype of stodgy, uninteresting plays that are difficult to understand. As a director, Baz Luhrmann revisits the play with great attention, choosing to only leave out scenes that are really futile to the plot. This may be due to the audience his film is designed for, catering for the commercial audience who require more of the action and romance than the subtleties of Shakespeares dialogue. His style of directing is sometimes intrusive, zooming in and speeding up the action in a way which draws the audience in, almost too close to the drama. His wild style of filming places the audience into the action immediately, which at times, particularly the opening scene, is obtrusive and gaudy. This adaptation of Romeo and Juliet is significant in that only one other film edition is recognised with the same commercial acknowledgement. Franco Zeffirellis 1968 adaptation is a traditional take on the play, set in the 15th century Renaissance period and filmed entirely in Italy. With only one other well-known film version of the play, Luhrmanns film has become an important alternative to the conventional style of renaissance drama. Largely shot in Mexico City, there is a strong unapologetic ambience, giving the film more of an attitude than the traditional setting of Verona. Luhrmanns definitive rendition of the play is outrageously narcissistic and easy on the eye, opening the world of Shakespeare to a wider audience in a contemporary and brash interpretation that leaves the commercial audience wanting more of Shakespeares compelling drama.

The Underworld, Logos, and the Poetic Imagination Essay -- Essays Pape

The Underworld, Logos, and the Poetic Imagination I In the Odyssey of Homer, Odysseus travels to the underworld and meets the soul of Achilles, who bitterly comments on existence after death: O shining Odysseus, never try to console me for dying. I would rather follow the plow as thrall to another man, one with no land allotted him and not much to live on, than be a king over all the perished dead.[1] The ancient Greek interpretation of death, as expressed by Homer, portrays the Underworld as a horrible place, terrifying in its monotony and lack of meaning; and Death is something to be feared and avoided as long as possible. Poetry's representation of death has changed dramatically since Homer, especially in the hands of more modern poets like Rilke and Gregory Orr, who, in their handling of the Orpheus and Alcestis myths, treat death as desirable, even more fulfilling than life. In the earlier Greek versions of the Orpheus myth, Eurydice reacts with despair when she loses her only chance to return to the realm of the living. In the modern poetry of Rilke and Orr, however, Eurydice does not want to leave the Underworld. Indeed, returning to life is a painful and dreadful experience for her. She responds to the possibility of life with the same hesitation and fear that the Homeric heroes felt toward death. What has not changed, however, from Homer to the twentieth century is that we do not know what happens after death, and we still use poetry as a means of addressing the uncertainty of death. Poetry is our way of immortalizing and idealizing the dead, and, consequently, the poet acts as the bridge between the living and the dead. II The Iliad begins with the invocation of the Muse, or the poet en... ... her back,/ to hurt her into memory." Gregory Orr, Betrayals/Hades, Eurydice, Orpheus, in City of Salt, (Pittsburgh: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1995), ll. 10-15, p. 34. [8] Martin Heidegger, "Being and Time," Basic Writings, Edited by David Farrell Krell (San Francisco: Harper Collins, 1993), 78. [9] When Heidegger speaks of the Logos with a capital "L," he is speaking of some sort of higher, transcendent truth. When he speaks of logos with a lower-case "l," he simply means "word." [10] Heidegger, "On the Essence of Truth," Basic Writings, Edited by David Farrell Krell (San Francisco: Harper Collins, 1977), 125. [11] Heidegger, Early Greek Thinkers, Translated by David Farrell Krell and Frank A. Capuzzi (San Francisco: Harper Collins, 1975), 73. [12] Rilke, Sonnets to Orpheus, I, 2, ll. 1-5, p. 229.

The Mirrors :: English Literature Essays

The Mirrors It was a small, circular mirror. When Jake picked it up, he saw his crystal clear reflection, enhanced by the smooth, silver glass. He looked up out of the old boxes he was rummaging through to find the rest of his dimly lit garage. He could hear kids playing outside and he rubbed his hands together, trying to remedy the sting of the bitter, unrelenting cold. He picked up the mirror, and took it into his mansion of a house in a quiet, peaceful suburb. It was a Midwestern winter, and the days were short, bringing cold nights laced with the sounds of speeding cars flying down the highway. Jake heard the shrill call from his mother. "Jake, we're going to McDonald's. What do you want us to bring you back?" Jake thought about it a moment, and responded in his low, thick voice. "Im not hungry right now. Go ahead." "You really should eat!" she yelled back. He didn't respond. Instead, he went into his room, mirror in hand. Jake had long been obsessed with the paranormal, diving into books of ghosts, demons, angels, and reproductions of ancient cabalic documents. It was in these books that he learned of scrying, which is foretelling the future through the use of mirror glass. He remembered about the cool antique mirror graced with Celtic knotwork and a red runestone, and figured he would give the ancient art a shot. He opened up the book, looked at some procedures, and followed the instructions. He set out the fancy purple velour cloth on his desk and placed the circular mirror down upon it. He then eagerly looked into the book and slowly chanted the specified jargon in slow, broken Latin. With that, he blew out his candles, waiting as the book said, for the mirror's powers to unlock. Nothing happened. He got up from the chair in expectation that it wouldn't work, and proceeded to turn the lights on, when he was shocked by what he heard. It started off as a whisper barely audible, and as he listened in sheer terror it became louder and louder, till he could hear nothing else but the shrieking terror that plagued his ears. It reminded him of a dog growling as if it were intimidated, but this was much more low, and contained what could only be described as pure, clean, unadulterated evil.

Legal, Safety, Regulatory Essay

Human resources must abide by legal regulations and safety laws, along with regulations requirements. This is set in place for organizations to avoid litigation. The employee-related regulations have been established by the United States including; Department of Labor, the U. S Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Department of Homeland Security. The main focus of these regulations is to prevent any manager from acting biased or irrationally. As a result, common sense and compassion have been replaced by litigation. What managers and employees fear the most is being sued. Managers will make special efforts to prevent such situations from occurring. Some managers will neglect high stress levels of their employees and lack the proper attention to legitimately discontented and unhappy employees. This throws common sense and compassion out the door. Compassion is the workplace amplifies the morale and enthusiasm of the employees along with cooperation where people are actually open to help and not move quickly into suing and organization. Experiencing compassion at work generates positive emotion and, in turn, shapes employees’ long-term attitudes and behaviors. Positive emotions generated by compassion have a cascading effect on employees’ attitudes and behaviors, thereby increasing job satisfaction and lowering job stress, (University of Michigan: Newsroom, 2003). The most recent of the major Equal Employment Opportunity laws is The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 also known as ADA. The law forbidding employment discrimination against people with disabilities who are able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation (Gomez-Mejia, Balkin, & Cardy, 2010). This act also provides the definition of what a person with disability truly entails. Managers must be especially careful when it comes to this because these days employees will knit pick and strip down a situation and call it discrimination when without a doubt they were probably not fulfilling the job description. HR managers need to ensure the safety of their employees. To ensure such safety there are two important standard regulations; that is workman’s compensation laws, each slightly differing upon which state the employee is in, and OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Act established since 1970 on the federal level . Workman’s comp is a legally required benefit that provides medical care, income continuation, and rehabilitation expenses for people who sustain job-related injuries or sickness. Also provides income to the survivors of an employee whose death is job related (Gomez-Mejia, Balkin, & Cardy, 2010). That being the case, there are audits held to prevent employee’s from filing fraudulent workman’s comp claims. OSHA has set federal and states laws, employees are to abide by their states OSHA standards to ensure safety in the workplace (Dellpo, 2013). In violation to following such laws can result in employer fines. With compassion and common sense lacking in the workplace a real disgruntled employee could cost and employer tons of money by carelessly contributing to fines. Then when presented with such allegations will then claim discrimination. When dealing with laws that effect HR, these are brought to the EEOC, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Employment decisions should not be based on characteristics such as race, sex, age, or disability (Gomez-Mejia, Balkin, & Cardy, 2010). The EEOC are the ones who investigate claims and situations involving harassment, discrimination, ect. And do take everything seriously. Employers these days definitely abuse the EEOC for simple situations that common sense can be easily applied to, and under those circumstances wasting a lot of time and money for an organization. In the end, after exanimating the effect of legal safety and regulatory requirements on human resource process the main focus of these regulations is to prevent any manager from biasedly and without cause irrationally treating an employee badly. As a result, common sense and compassion have been replaced by litigation. It is unfortunate, but as managers that is why it is important to take actions that develop trust, such as sharing useful information and making good on commitments. Act consistently so that employees are not surprised by unexpected management actions or decisions. Be truthful and avoid white lies and actions designed to manipulate others by giving a certain (false) impression. Demonstrate integrity by keeping confidences and showing concern for others. Meet with employees to discuss and define what is expected of them. Ensure that employees are treated equitably, giving equivalent rewards for similar performance and avoiding actual or apparent special treatment of favorites. Adhere to clear standards that are seen as just and reasonable, for example, neither praising accomplishments nor imposing penalties disproportionately. Demonstrate respect toward employees, showing openly that they care about employees and recognize their strengths and contributions (Gomez-Mejia, Balkin, & Cardy, 2010). By practicing these key points compassion and common sense can be restored in the workplace.

Could Russia Have Defeated Japan in the Russo-Japanese War?

This essay will examine Russia's advantages and disadvantages pre-war, war and post-war that could have changed the course of history and enabled Russia to defeat Japan in the Russo-Japanese War. Russia, despite major advantages in resources, military personnel, naval forces, and strategic depth, lost the Russo-Japanese War to Japan, a rising power whose military strength and power were grossly underestimated. Why? What could Russia have done differently to defeat Japan in the war? Summarizing and analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of Russia’s poor leadership, lack of strategic planning against Japan, and logistical differences will help clarify what it did wrong and what it could have done to defeat Japan in 1904. Diplomatic and economic factors before and during the war In 1854, Japan had reopened her doors to the United States, the United Kingdom, and Russian after 200 years of isolation from all Western powers, except the Netherlands (Koda 12). Of these powers, Britain and Russia had the strongest impact on the national security policy of the Japanese government. By the 1890s, given the growing competition among European Powers in Asia, Japan had begun to implement policies to increase the nation’s military and economic modernization. They recognized that failure to do so would lead to the â€Å"nation’s dominance or dismemberment† by foreigners (Francis 1). Between 1888 and 1904, the Russian Empire’s economy was booming. As the financial heath of the government improved, it can be expected that the Minister of War would be allowed to share in this bounty. The Ministry was able to fund two discrete rearmament programs: the acquisition of magazine rifles and the introduction of the first quick-firing field artillery piece (Fuller 363). Both programs helped enhance and put Russia at an advantage in military readiness and innovation compared to other powers within the region. In 1894, Russia had a new Tsar in Nicholas II, who was â€Å"young, dreamy and ambitious†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ and noted by biographers as â€Å"a weak man and easily led† (Fuller 370). Another important figure to Russia’s government was Count S. Iu. Witte. Witte, the Minister of Finance, 1892-1903, rapidly became one of Nicholas’s most influential ministers in the early part of his regime as Tsar (Fuller 370). Witte was the prime mover of the Trans-Siberian and Chinese Eastern railroads, which allowed Russia to become a monopoly over resources and markets of Manchuria (Fuller 370). In March 1900, War Minister Kuropatkin delivered a speech in which he summarized the ways in which Russia had used its' military power in the past two hundred years and a series of predictions on upcoming challenges the nation would have to face. He argued that Russia â€Å"neither needed nor desired war with any of the other Great Powers; it simply had nothing to gain by it† (Fuller 377). Yet, Russia was not a satisfied Power and in a report to the Tsar, Kuropatkin had to endorse the continued economic exploitation of Manchuria and the expansion of Russia influence in the East (Fuller 378). Moreover, Russia had concluded an alliance with China against Japan and, in the process provided the finance China needed in exchange for railway and industrial monopolies and won rights to extend the Trans-Siberian Railroad across Chinese-held Manchuria to the Russian seaport of Vladivostok, thus gaining control of an important strip of Manchurian territory (Warner 113). Unfortunately, the unfinished state of the Trans-Siberian railroad in 1904, logistical problems, and heavy costs meant only about 100,000 Russian troops and supporting units had been deployed to the Far East. However, this continuous crash collusion over the â€Å"spheres of influence† in Manchuria, Port Arthur, and finally in 1903 when Russia developed an economic interest in Korea further exasperated Japan (Koda 16). Start of the War The Russo-Japanese War took place from February 1904 to September 1905; it was a war that originated out of rival imperial ambitions of the Japanese and Russian Empires over Manchuria, Port Arthur, and Korea. The Russians had been pursuing a course of steady aggression and contrary to what Japan considered her â€Å"vital interests and national honor† (Mahan 172). The Russians had countless chances to gain an advantage and a better diplomatic position over Japan. After negotiations back and forth concerning â€Å"spheres of interest† between the two nations were not met and in Japanese eyes were ignored due to the arrogance of the Tsar; Japan severed diplomatic relations on 6 February 1904 (Answer. com). Late at night on the 8th of February, a force of Japanese torpedo boats entered into Port Arthur. Through the dense fog, they launched a surprise attack that not only surprised the Russian naval squadron, but also surprised the world. Only one ship, the Novik, was not caught entirely napping and was able to give chase (Warner 17). Three of Russia’s biggest ships took severe hits: the cruiser Pallada, Retvizan and Tsarevitch (Warner 17). Russia was shocked and definitely not prepared! Although gunfire stirred some in the evening, many knew nothing of the attack until the next morning. Some had heard and assumed that the fleet had been carrying out exercises and few people â€Å"expected that the first attack by Japanese- or any attack at all- would take place in Port Arthur† (Warner 17). Crafting a War Plan The Commander of Russia’s Far Eastern Armies, General Kuropatkin was tasked with developing Russia’s war plan; his idea was to deny Japan an early victory by alternating tenacious holding actions and strategic withdrawals in order to gain the time needed to bring thousands of additional troops from European Russia (Fuller 379). â€Å"Inso far as possible,† he wrote, â€Å"our forces must avoid decisive engagements in order to escape being defeated in detail prior to concentration of forces sufficient for the defeat of the Japanese† (Fuller 400). He expected the Japanese to invade Manchuria, they did; he anticipated that the Japanese would attack Port Arthur, they did; so, his plan was absolutely accurate and unquestionably foreboded the events that were about to unfold in this Russian nightmare. But no matter how intelligent or administratively talented Kuropatkin may have been, he committed the gravest of errors by underestimating his enemy. The Japanese army was highly motivated and trained and ready to implement their war plan. In an attempt to avoid war, Japan presented Russia with a treaty that would be relatively fair to both sides. Russia, to the surprise of no one, declined the terms and Japan was left with no choice other than to declare war. In July 1903 at pre-war negotiations, the Japanese Minister in St. Petersburg as instructed to present Russian Minister, Roman Rosen, with his country’s views and desires. After the proposal, Russia provide a counter-proposal and Japan provided another proposal by which â€Å"Manchuria would be outside the Japanese sphere of influence and, reciprocally, Korea outside Russia’s† (Answers. com). One month later on 4 February when no formal reply had been received, Japan severed ties and went about achieving everything that they asked for at the pre-negotiations. According to Karl von Clausewitz, a renowned theorist of war, two parties need to want peace for a war to be terminated and both sides must be able to overcome internal and external oppositions to end the war. Because of Russian leaders’ incompetence, arrogance, and inability to respond promptly and compromise negotiations, Japan’s pre-war requests and Kuropatkin’s predictions of Japan’s war strategy were developing in what would be known in history as the Russo-Japanese War. Elements of the Land Campaign At the outbreak of the war, Russia had the world's largest standing army, but most of it was in Europe. The Japanese knew that Russia could not fully concentrate its’ army in the Far East because â€Å"it had to keep some forces in western Russia as a counter to Turkish, German, and Austrian forces† (Koda 22). Russia was not ready for the war with Japan, and the Japanese knew it. All Japan had to do was concentrate its’ forces in Manchuria and match the strength of Russian forces there. For the Japanese to establish superiority, they had to overcome their handicaps: shortage of strategic reserves, an insufficient stockpile of ammunition, and poor field heavy artillery (Koda 23). In order to overcome these handicaps, Japan had a well thought out operational plan and effective tactics on the battlefield, which yielded perfectly to the warfare of Manchurian plain. In my opinion, all Russia had to do was delay Japanese forces while they built up their strength in the west and bring forces south from the Chinese Eastern railway. Without the Trans-Siberian Railway to assist in reinforcing Russian forces, Russia would be left without â€Å"a real plan of campaign† (Warner 319). Therefore, the longer the war went on, the more likely an eventual Russian victory would have been in a battle of industrial attrition due to the continuing flow of reinforcements along the railway. Synchronizing ground and naval efforts Japan had to deliver a severe blow before Russia had time to prepare and execute whatever war plan that they may have established. In the words of Admiral â€Å"Bull† Halsey, Japan needed to â€Å"Hit hard, hit fast and hit often. † In March the Japanese landed an army in Korea that quickly overran that country. In May another Japanese army landed on the Liaotung Peninsula, and on May 26 it cut off the Port Arthur garrison from the main body of Russian forces in Manchuria. Russia needed to stop playing on the defense and start being on the offensive. With the help of reinforcements received via the Trans-Siberian Railroad, Russia continued attacks, but it proved indecisive owing to poor military leadership. An example of the Russian’s impotence in leadership occurred at the siege of Port Arthur. After believing that the purpose of defending the city was lost due to the defeat of the fleet, Major General Stessel decided to surrender his post without consulting the other military staff present, or the Tsar and the military command. All disagreed with his decision because the garrison was still well stocked and had months of food and ammunition. In 1908, Stessel was convicted by a court-martial and sentenced to death, though later pardoned for his offenses (Answer. om). More aggressive naval power The Japanese Combined Fleet was slightly superior to the Russian Pacific Fleet (Koda 22). Japan was at an advantage to Russia, because Russia’s fleet had to be divided in two forces, one at Port Arthur and the other at Vladivostok (Koda 22). The fleets at Port Arthur and Vladivostok were also smaller and less ready, which left Russia's land and naval forces outnumbered at the start of the war. Japan’s strategy was to engage each force separately and prevent any Russian reinforcements. Japan’s Combined Fleet had to destroy the Pacific Fleet before the arrival of reinforcements and it was necessary for Admiral Togo â€Å"to preserve his strength, to ensure that he had a fleet capable of destroying the reinforcements when they arrived† (Koda 23). The Russian fleet in Port Arthur presented a menace to the sea lines of communication for Japan and was a determining factor of the war. The attack, although successful, was not executed as planned. It continued long enough to afford Russia the opportunity to bring into play her other naval forces from the west and if other circumstance would not have accorded, may have caused Japan their victory. For example, the Baltic Fleet was on its last leg of its 18,000 nautical mile journey to Vladivostok, when they were spotted by the Japanese Combined Fleet. The Baltic Fleet had been successfully traveling at night to avoid discovery. Unfortunately, one of her hospital ships exposed a light, which was sighted by a Japanese ship. The ship reported the sighting to Admiral Togo, who was able to position his fleet and engage in the battle of Tsushima. The Russian fleet was annihilated at Tsushima. If the Russian fleet would have positioned their cruisers, designed for speed and endurance, at Vladivostok, Russia would have had a better chance at counter-attacking Japan’s fleet. Unlike Port Arthur with only one way in and out, Vladivostok had two exits, to the Japan Sea and to the east coast of the islands by way of the Tsugaru Straits. The Japanese vessels out numbered the Russian vessels and they probably would have still picked off the Russian vessels one by one, but positioning the cruisers at another port would have allowed for continued freedom of commerce. Although this is an indirect effect to the war, it directly affected the already unstable economy and a growing rebellious status to war efforts in Russia. One of the most important things to remember is not just the multiple locations of the Russia fleets, but that they were divided into fractions individually smaller than those of a possible enemy. If the Russian divisions at Port Arthur, Vladivostok, and in the European ports of Russia would have been united, they would have outweighed the Japanese fleet; hence causing the Japanese fleet to re-evaluate their plan and possibly changing the course of the war. Additionally, Admiral Makarov, Commander of the Baltic Fleet, suggested that more ships should assist the Port Arthur and Vladivostok, but with his death a conference of the Higher Naval Board with the Tsar presiding was needed. For the next three months, the new commander, Admiral Rozhdestvenski, struggled with â€Å"the inevitable tangle of Russian red tape† and prepared his fleet for the long journey and they set sail in October of 1904 (Warner 402). The Baltic fleet should have been sent east the instant the Japanese declared war and would have arrived in ample time to assist and been able to provide much needed reinforcements and a more aggressive naval power. Conclusion Despite Russia’s major advantages in resources, military personnel, naval forces, and strategic depth, they lost to an up and coming power, Japan. Furthermore, they could have negotiated out of starting a war, and never have been put in a situation that caused undue hardship on their ill-prepared naval and land forces. If it wasn’t for poor leadership, lack of strategic planning, and logistical differences, Russia could have defeated Japan in the Russo-Japanese War.