Leadership and motivation theories, principles and issues

buy custom A People’s History of the United States essay

buy custom A People’s History of the United States essay Question 1 I am an English Immigrant who came to Virginia as an indenture servant in 1649 at the age of 18. After our entire estate was seized by the Parliamentarian forces during the English Civil war, my father was forced to send me to this place for five years. My master is harsh and strict when it comes to work. He forces me and my fellow servants to work from dawn to dark without any food in our stomachs. My daily chores include; house service, gardening and milking, shearing sheep, building burns, taking care of children and occasionally helping out fellow servants in the fields. Anytime I make a petty mistake, my master always whips me severely. Life in this farm is miserable, because I do not have any cloth to put on my frail body, no food to put on my empty stomach and no place to rest my tired body at the end of the day. In my contract, it was stipulated that my master should help me get some education, education; award me with several animals and a piece of land after servitude. Therefore, I am assured of a bright future after serving my master for these five years. I will use this freedom package to better my life. For instant, I will cultivate my land and sale the proceeds to other residents. After establishing myself, I will marry the woman of my dreams and have a happy family of my own. My major future prospect is to become a successive land owner just like my hero Anthony Johnson. Question 2 European men signed indentures for different reasons. During the seventeenth century, Europe was full of poor men and women. Most of them were landless farmers and tenants, who had been driven away from their lands due to the introduction of sheep grazing, changes in agriculture, the English civil war. Others signed these indentures because their masters in England had no more use for people who used to labor on the transformed fields (Galenson, 2004). Add to this, freed prisoners as well soldiers who had been released from the navy or army were penniless. Some courts would ask criminals to choose between being executed and being deported to the colonies, and most of them woud choose the later. By signing an indenture, a poor European man or woman would be given a chance to immigrate to the New World of Honey and Milk. This was a big hurdle for these young men and women because crossing the Atlantic was not cheap. These men and women also signed the indenture because they were assured of a better life because of the awaiting jobs, food and shelter. The above discourse reveals that those who signed indentures did it willfully. Nevertheless, some historical forces also compelled these young men and women to sign indentures. For example, overpopulation and poverty compelled people to sign indentures. It is asserted that some colonies allowed Europe to offset their overpopulated towns and cities. Question 3 After many years of an iron-fist control of the colonies by Native Americans, the up-rise of poor whites, former indentured servants and slaves posed a major threat to the elites control. Led by 29 year-old Nathaniel Bacon, lower class citizens in Virginia rebelled against the elites control of Jamestown. This led to a conflict between the Indians and the poor whites and blacks (Zinn, 2010). The poor whites and poor blacks wanted to eliminate all elites, who comprised of Indians and supported by Governor William Berkeley. Bacon encouraged the poor to defend and take what was rightfully theirs (Public Broadcasting Service, nda, par, 1). The elites were opposed to the Governors policies that favored the elites at the expense of the poor. The non-land owners and Yeoman farmers were infuriated with the Indians because they stood in the way of their expansion. After capturing and killing several captives (enemies), the elites realized that their control was coming to an end. This rebellion exhibited that poor blacks and poor whites could come together and fight for a common cause. This elicited great fear among the elites because they realized that nothing could hinder the poor from coming together to fight them. As a result, this fear led to the adoption of racial slavery in the following years. To prevent such incidents from occurring in the future, the wealthy and thhe rich compelled the legislature to pass laws that would punish rebellious servants (Zinn, 2010). Question 4 The institution of African slavery in colonial America was characterized with the ownership of humans as pieces of movable property or chattels. As chattels, black slaves were compelled to slavery for life. One pragmatic reason as to why black slaves were treated as chattels is because of their skin color. Naturally, the whites considered Africans as being inferior in every aspect of life. Therefore, they had to show this in actions by treating them as property. Another pragmatic reason as to why slaves were being treated as property is because of the fact that the whites used money to acquire them. Pragmatically, anything bought is rightfully yours, therefore, one has a right of doing anything he or she wishes to that thing. Question 5 The Stono Rebellion, which started on 9 September 1739, is arguably the biggest slave uprising in colonial America. Although the real cause of this rebellion is not clear, historians attribute it to the tension between Spain and England (Davis, par, 1). As a result of the animosity between the two colonial powers, the Spanish government in Florida proclaimed that all slaves who found their way to St. Augustine would be given freedom and land. The though of being free and given land led many slaves in a killing spree that lasted for almost two days. Another issue that might have triggered this rebellion was the looming Security Act (Public Broadcasting Service, ndb, par 2). This Act allowed all white men to carry guns on Sunday while going to church in reaction to an impending insurrection. This act did not augur well with the blacks, thus a rebellion culminated. At the end of the rebellion, the Negro Act was quickly finalized and enacted. This act compelled the slaves to face the consequences of the revolt. The main aim of this act was to limit the privileges of the slaves. From that time on, slaves were not allowed to assemble in small groups, cultivate their own food, and learn to read, or even earn their own money. Buy custom A People’s History of the United States essay

Overall, the spread of the internet has actually had a negative effect Essay

Overall, the spread of the internet has actually had a negative effect on non-western societies. Using existing literature - Essay Example The answer is yes, though the internet has immensely influenced the development of these countries, the politics and cultures of these countries have also been negatively impacted as a result (Anne, 2009). In terms of the culture of these non western countries, the introduction of the internet can be said to have done more bad than good to their existence as a result of the alterations that have occurred as a result. Whereas in the past the culture of these countries were held in great esteem by the youth as a result of the teachings that were passed on from the older generations, they are now viewed as backward and non significant by many of the youth whose main information is retrieved from the internet (Clay, 2008). This can be said to be mainly because of the availability of the internet which has introduced the younger generation to different, and in their view, more attractive modern cultures mainly practiced in the westernized countries that has led them to abandon the teachin gs of their own cultures for these foreign practices (Harris, 2008). A good example of such change is the treatment and views of parents by the youth in these non western countries. Whereas in the past a child dare not disobey their parents wishes, the introduction of the internet has revealed countries such as America where an individual is capable of suing their parents in court and do not hold them in such esteem. This has led to the degeneration of the level of respect that was once accorded to these parents as a result as the youth ask themselves that if the American’s are doing it why shouldn’t they? Thus, it can be said that the introduction of the internet has led to the slow disappearance of a country’s culture as he youth give them up for more modern views on life and society (Yochai, 2006). The introduction of the internet has also affected the culture of non western countries cultures in terms of moral values that had previously played a large role i n the society of these nations (Steven, 2005). The number of moral beliefs that were previously upheld by then youth has decreased drastically as a result of the internet as well. The World Wide Web has opened up the gates of information and practices that were previously considered taboo are now accepted the younger generations in these non western countries as a result (Anne, 2009). This can be said to be due to the discovery that though such acts were forbidden in their countries they are widely accepted in the western lands and thus as a result, they become accepted as well as the youth strive to emulate the western lives that they see via the web. An example of such moral beliefs is the cohabitation of different genders (That is boyfriends and girlfriends) before marriage. Whereas in the past it was unacceptable for a boy and a girl to live together unless they related or married it is now a widely accepted role in many non western countries, something that was not the case bef ore the introduction of the internet (Sherry, 2011). Sex before marriage is also another subject that was unthinkable before the intro

CONCLUSION - A Short Summary in Terms of the Foundations of the Essay

CONCLUSION - A Short Summary in Terms of the Foundations of the Ordained Ministry Based on the Overview I Have Written - Essay Example In addition, he solemnly affirms that preaching Christ at any cost is the duty of the minister and the servant. When one reads the initial chapters of the epistle to Philippians we find the apostle rejoicing that Christ is being preached even though out of jealousy and competition. That the ministerial ordination does not stop with just Paul himself is evident in the passages where the Apostle asks Timothy to rekindle the Holy Spirit, which has been received through the laying of hands by the Apostle himself, in his epistle to the ardent disciple. (2 Tim: 1/6) This laying of hands is a charism through which God communicates. This charism is found ‘in’ them whom the hands were laid. So in the epistles, the laying of hands brings about the induction into the office of the ministry. We find a close link between the transmission of the right doctrine and the laying of hands. We find the first seven deacons being inducted by the twelve into the ministry by laying of hands. Thus we find the transmission of ordained ministry as well as its institution (Part 3). Now we come to the ultimate question of the aim of this ministry according to Paul, which has also been dealt with in his letters. Paul says that as an Apostle he has been selected by the Lord with the â€Å"ministry of the uncircumcised† as Peter had been entrusted with the â€Å"ministry of the circumcised†. Even at the council of the apostles, Paul argues that the message of Christ is universal, for the righteousness of the faith imparted by Christ (Gal: 2/1-10). He did not desist until John, Cephas and James extended him that â€Å"right hand of fellowship† (Part4). The minister is always doing the work of reconciliation. (2 Cor: 5/18). Therefore, every minister is called to this ministry. The â€Å"steward of the mysteries of Christ† (1 Cor: 4/1), Paul knows that he is invested with the authority of God (2 Cor: 13/10) to build up the Church. How faith is handed down and

The American Revolution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

The American Revolution - Essay Example The biography of George Washington was originally written by Mason Locke Weems who maintained a subjective approach in evaluating the facts and presented Washington as a folk hero. Although they had lived through the revolution, yet many of the early historians did not have objective grounds for their claims. A new generation of historians surfaced with the start of the 19th century. Today, whatever we know about the American Revolution is primarily an outcome of their compilation of the war events. Historians of the 19th century mutually held a consensus that the American Revolution was morally justified. They were of the view that American victory opened the gate to freedom. The determinists of the early 20th century presented the second school of thought regarding the American Revolution. They thought that the revolution revolved around the conflict of class. The economic motivations were hard to be justified with the widespread rhetoric about equality and republicanism. The determinists analyzed the revolution as more than just an endeavor to gain independence. They thought of it as a means to strengthen a ruling elite American class. The determinists base their assertions on the fact that a vast majority of the people who had signed the Declaration of Independence were rich and took the revolution as a means to strengthen their power. The third school of thought regarding the American Revolution surfaced after the Second World War. Neo-Whigs were the owners of this school of thought.

Terrorism: Causes, Effects and Prevention Strategies

Terrorism: Causes, Effects and Prevention Strategies In the last quarter of the century, there is a dramatic change in most of the terrorist activities, as they are well-planned, with a purpose to accomplish a precise identifiable and seemingly attainable political goal. In the past, most of the terrorist activities involved incidents like high-jacking an aircraft or the taking of a hostage following which certain demands were made. Their aim was usually to release their friends, or group leaders from prisons. Terrorism in the last few decades has taken a more violent and destructive turn, and quite often the demands are not made. Terrorism today is an act which is sudden, unprovoked, sheer brutal attack on innocent civilians killing several people in a crowded market or a gathering. Most of there terrorist attacks have had a political objective, which have now become rather diffused since the 9/11 attack. It now seems that the idea is to create fear and panic, and primarily to get publicity through the television news and print media According to several orthodox cultures, the terrorists resorted to this particular type of extremism as the only way for accomplishing political change. Also it appears to be interconnected to globalization and the increased impact of the United States and other Western countries. This has added to the resentments of the people of that part of the world. Thus it is the larger developments, changes in the international political structure, and expansion of globalization throughout the world that explains this trend in terrorism. The sixty years of suffering of the Palestinians and their unsuccessful efforts to get an independent state is one of the major reasons for the unrest in the Muslim World. The recent siege (412 Palestinian children perished between the 27th of December 2008 and the 18th of January 2009 as a result of the bombings and atrocities carried out by the Israeli Occupying Forces The end year of 2009 inevitably This markeds the First Year Memorial of Operation Cast Lead, when almost 1,400 Palestinians, mostly civilians were killed during the course of a brutal military operation carried out by Israeli authorities. Thousands more were wounded or displaced. 412 Palestinian children perished between the 27th of December 2008 and the 18th of January 2009. These children were killed as a result of the bombings and atrocities carried out by the Israeli Occupying Forces) affected the Palestinian social fabric completely. As the trauma grows with every violent incursion into Palestinian communities; hatred and tendency of revenge also increases among them. During the Gulf War, and more recently in Afghanistan, the terrorist groups often resort to psychological warfare because its the only tactic they have available to them. They dont have M-16s, and we have M-16s. They dont have the mighty military power that we have, and they only have access to things like kidnapping, says Haroun, a clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego. (cited in Warner, 2005).1 In reality these terrorist attacks does not harm the enemy physically very much, as few people could be killed in an attack. But the repercussions are tremendous from the psychological point of view. Ordinary people viewing the terrorist attack in person or watching it on television, gets anxious, terrified, and often develop a sense of foreboding fear, which in turn may lead to demoralization in the entire society. Psychological Terror Whatever is their modus operandi, terrorists share very similar aims. Alexander and Klein (2006)[1] concisely identified the aims of terrorism as follows: To create pervasive fear, anxiety and panic To generate a collective and individual sense of helplessness, vulnerability and hopelessness To demonstratereveal the incompetenceineffectiveness and/or inabilityincapability of the authorities to provide security and protectionsafety against such opponents And provoke the establishment into errors or over-reactions which will disaffect the general public or specific influential bodies. The last point is essentially vital as observed by the widespread concerns as for example the shooting of an innocent man by the Metropolitan Police in London sometime ago (as a result of consequent to the wrong information that he was a suicide bomber); the incarceration of terrorist suspects in high security prisons of Guantanamo Bay and Belmarsh; and the introduction of repressive legislation. Moreno (2003)[2] has persuasively proven how easy it is in a democratic society to subordinate hard-earned civil liberties to the need to introduce counter-terrorist legislation. The terrorist attacks provide harsh reminders that in todays world, one does not know what news may come next on television or other news media. Particularly disturbing television images of horrific incidents can trigger the innate startle response no matter how close or far away from home the event happened. Historically, every military clash has led to psychological warfare in some form in one way or another as th e enemy aims to break the morale of their opponent. Due to progress in technology; the popularity of the internet; and increase of news coverage, the rules of engagement in this type of psychological battle have changed. Whether it is a substantial attack or a single dreadful act, the effects of psychological warfare are not restricted to the physical damage it produces. Instead, the intent of these attacks is to instillinstil a sense of fear that is much greater than the actual threat itself. According to Professor Richard Bulliet of Columbia University: There are various ways to have your impact. You can have your impact by the magnitude of what you do, by the symbolic character of target, or the horrific quality of what you do to a single person. Interestingly the way media covers the event in fact determines the effect on the people. For instance, according to Bulliet, the Iranian hostage predicament, in 1979, which though lasted for 444 days, was infact actually one of the most harmless of (word harmless) criticalthings events that occurredhappened in the Middle East in the last 25 years. All the U.S. hostages were released ultimately unscathed., butHowever this hostage event remains a psychological scarblemish for manyseveral Americans who watched powerlessly, each evenings newscast, they counted days the hostages were being held in custody. The terrorists often take advantage of images of a group of masked individuals coercing and intimidating exerting total power over their captives to sendconvey the message that the act is a collective demonstrationdisplay of the groups power rather than an individual criminal act. You dont have the notion that a certain person has taken a hostage. Its an image of group power, and the force becomes generalized rather than personalized. The randomness and the ubiquity of the threat give the impression of vastly greater capacities. (cited in Warner, 2005).[3] Remote Repercussions of Terrorist Attacks When a horrific event occurs, it is natural to feel disturbed, even if the act occurred thousands of miles away. The human reaction is to put oneself in the situation because as normal human beings, people have the capacity to empathize. And consequently these people may develop similar psychological symptoms. Witnessing an act of psychological terror can also disrupt our belief system, says Charles Figley, PhD, director of the Florida State University Traumatology Institute. (cited in Warner, 2005).[4] We walk around, psychologically, in a bubble, and that bubble represents our belief system and values. Most often we assume incorrectly that other people have the same values and social niceties as we do. When that is violated or challenged, the first response is usually an effort to protect our beliefs and, in other words, to deny that it actually happened. When A s soon as confronted with proof of terror, such as pictures of atrocities, Figley says there are a few different waysdifferent ways in which people typically react: They perceive perpetrators to be inhumane. Become fearful as they perceive they are living in a callous and unsafe world because the graph bar of inhumanityhumanity has been lowered even further. Believe that its only a fleeting incident which could be easily explained away or deconstructed by precise things that have taken place, such as if we hadnt done this, then that would not have happened. Its uncomfortable believing that the world is less safe, so we have to imagine or construct a scenario that will allow us to feel more safe again and resist change, says Figley. There is an interesting and strange symbiotic relationship between terrorism and the media. Bruce Hoffman, the director of the Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence, in his book Inside Terrorism has written a clear summary of some of the major historical trends in international terrorism. He makes careful distinctions between the motivations that drive political (or ethno-nationalist) terrorism and religious terrorism, and he explains also shows why the rise of religious terrorism, coupled with the increased availability of weapons of mass destruction, may foretellpredict an eraepoch of even greater violence. In the past, Hoffman argues, the main goal of the terrorist was not to kill and destroy, but to attract media attention to his cause in the hope of initiating reform. For the religious terrorist, however, violence is first and foremost a sacred act or divine duty executed in direct response to some theological demand or imperative religious terrorists see themselves not as components of a system worth preserving but as outsiders, seeking fundamental changes in the existing order. (Hoffman, 2006).[5] In this context Hoffman does not choose sides, he refers to in this framework, pointing to the bombings of the World Trade Center ,and Oklahoma City and the Tokyo,to the Sarin nerve gas attacks, in Tokyo in order to demonstrate that radicalsfundamentalists of any religious denomination are capable of extreme acts of terrorism. Terrorism is an aggressive-hostile action which is mainly intended to harm and terrify civilians, in order to promote a particular aim, or with an the idea, which may be social political or other. The terrorist attacks, are now gaining major importance than wars in the news headlines worldwide Terrorism and its Effects on Mental Health Whether its a massive attack or a single dreadfulhorrific act, the effects of psychological warfare are not restrictedlimited to the physical damage inflicted. Infact the primary objectivestead, the goal of these attacks is to inculcate a sense of fear whichthat is much greater than the actual threat itself. Therefore, the impact of psychological terror depends largely on how the acts are revealedpublicized and interpreted. Typical reactions to major trauma on the individuals and communities are well-documented but the literature on the individual reactions to terrorist incidents is scarce. Most of the reactions at the initial phase following trauma are normal reactions and only few individuals display florid psychopathology. (Alexander and Klein, 2006).[6] Normal individual reactions to a terrorist attack are: Emotional Reactions : shock, numbness, denial , fear, anxiety , helplessness, hopelessness. Cognitive dysfunctions as disorientation, confusion ,intrusive thoughts, images, memories ,hypervigilance (i.e. increased sense of risk),impaired concentration and memory. Changes in social interaction, like withdrawal ,irritability ,loss of trust and faith , avoidant behaviour (i.e. of any reminders of the event). Physical reactions as autonomic hyperarousal , ,loss of energy. insomnia Autonomic hyper-arousal, insomnia, loss of energy. Emotional shock, numbness, denial, fear, anxiety helplessness, hopelessness. Cognitive disorientation, confusion, intrusive thoughts, images, memories.Hyper-vigilance, impaired concentration and memory. Social withdrawal, irritability, loss of trust and faith, avoidant behaviour (i.e. of any reminders of the event). These normal reactions comprise most of the core symptoms of PTSD, i.e. intrusive experiences, hyper-arousal and avoidant behaviour, as defined in the ICD-10 Classification of Mental and Behavioural Disorders (ICD-10; WHO, 1992).[7] For a formal diagnosis of PTSD, such symptoms must be experienced for at least a few weeks. (The fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders [DSM-IV] also necessitatesrequires that such symptoms mustto be present for one month. (American Psychiatric Association, 1994).[8] In addition the impact on individuals, terrorism has mass psychogenic impacts. Mass psychogenic illness has been defined as: The rapid spread of illness signs and symptoms affecting members of a cohesive group, originating from a nervous system disturbance involving excitation, loss or alteration of function whereby physical complaints that are exhibited unconsciously have no corresponding organic aetiology. (Bartholomew Wessely, 2002). [9] As regards community reactions, they may present with distinct features. Tyhurst provides a three phase model of community response. (Tyhurst, 1951).[10] In Phase I, most individuals are liable to be stunned, numbed or even in denial. Denial was the commonly reported reaction among the office staff of Capital Hill, Washington DC following the anthrax scare in 2001. It took some time for the affectees to realize they might have been exposed to a toxic substance. North et al., 2005).[11] Widespread panic is not a typical reaction (though widely depicted in disaster films, etc.). Approximately 10 per cent of victims are likely to panic, and this reaction is most likely when victims believe they are trapped and feel helpless. Durodie Wessely, 2002).[12] In the 1987 Kings Cross underground fire most passengers did not panic; on the contrary, they sought out the usual methods of entry and exit. (Donald Canter, 1992).[13] Similar personal reactions were observedgiven after the London terrorist incidents of July 2005. Hence the civil contingency planning clearly should not be based on ill-informed assumptions about human behaviour. Even in extreme situations human behaviour can be rational, altruistic, and even heroic. In Phase II which is the Recoil Phase, individuals seek to make sense of what has happened. They seek reunion with their common sources of support, e.g. families, friends and colleagues. Even makeshift groups may develop as individuals seek understanding and mutual support. During this period, the community develops a sense of order and control, and the concerned relief authorities can do a lot much to facilitate this step towards recovery.. Phase III, the Recovery Phase is characterized by alternating episodes of adjustment and relapse and there may be some obvious examples of resilience and positive outcomes. Further comprehensive research studies must be A lot of research still needs to be done in order to understand how communities cope with chronic exposure to threat and adversity, but Jones and his colleagues have reassessed the social effects of air raids in Great Britain during the Second World War. They indicate a high level of civilian resilience developed during that period. (Jones et al., 2004).[14] Similarly, law enforcement authorities have commented on the apparently low level of violence-related psychopathology reported in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. Clinical data is still not enough to identify It is unclear, as to what are the protective factors in these circumstances. Extensive denial, social cohesiveness, a united front against a common enemy or some other as yet undetermined influences could be termed as protective factors. Mental Health Studies Mental health research studies are conducted worldwide to explore the effects of terrorism both on the individuals and the community. Whereas some emphasize the psycho-pathological effects of terror (Galea, Ahern, Resnick et al., 2002),[15] others focus on the human suffering, which is not identical to psychiatric morbidity (Wessely 2003),[16] and on community and cultural factors that enable people to endure the stressful event (Hobfoll, 2003).[17] This conflict between two distinct approaches (Wessely, 2003) ishas yet to be bridged. Any horrific event can affect people directly or indirectly even if they are not the targets. Hence the target of the interventions is not the individual victim only, but all the people more indirectly affected by the incidence. An impartial approach may be suitable. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines for action during emergencies which seem to support such a stand (WHO, 2003).[18] Experiencing or witnessing a violent attack does not necessarily mean that the individual will inevitably develop psychiatric morbidity (Curran, and Miller, 2001).[19] After the September 11, 2001 attacks in New York City, it was observed that: In the aftermath of terrorist attacks, many Americans regarded their distress as a normal reaction rather than a disorder needing [psychiatric] care. (Drus and Marcus, 2004).[20] Presently available data suggest that it takes more than the agent (e.g., threat to life) to lead to psychopathology. Indeed, the role of the environment is of significance, as a part of the epidemiological triangle that has been discarded by a greater focus on host-related factors (e.g., gender or age of the victim). ) A study on adults have recognized a group of factors, including religious beliefs, ideological commitment and social capital, that have protected communities which were highly exposed to terrorist attacks (like the loss of dear ones, physical injuries and property damage etc). Ideology and religion may be used as a healing power, but also as a weapon. This is especially true in the [Middle East] region. (Solomon, and Laufer (2005);[21] Shalev et al.; Shalev,[22] Tuval-Mashiach Hadar, 2004; Kaplan et al.; Kaplan,[23] Matar, Kamin, et al., 2005; Billig, Kohn, and Levav, 2004).[24] All the research data today gives hope that, by advancing research on the mental health effects of war-related activities will be conducive to the development of new techniques to counter the psycho-social aftermath of wars and other such traumatic events., Ppsychiatrists worldwide are joining the call by WHO member states to devise means to restore the psycho-pathological damage sustained by victimized populations. The World Psychiatric Association (WPA) has been active in the recent Gaza Massacre,by giving an official statement. (See Mario Maj. statement in Chapter 1V -Wars in the Muslim World1).[25] Nonetheless On the other hand, psychiatrists could play other roles even at the risk of raising idealistic initiatives which cynics might like to dismiss. There are several possibilities open for psychiatrists who, by the nature of their profession can, besides promoting health, support peace rather than war. Psychiatrists and other mental health professionals from countries in conflict could engage in alliance in a number of activities (e.g., teaching, exchange of experiences in program development and services, communication), while they are actively, tenaciously and continuously supported by WPA. Most importantly, psychiatrists must endeavour to make their societies even more ardently aware that in armed confrontations no one is a winner but that everyone is a victim. The model of collaboration in the Balkans, where mental health is a bridge to reconciliation within the framework of the Stability Pact, is a concrete example of what could be achieved when a unifying language is spoken, and when such an effort is reinforced by dedicated support from sources that are not part of the conflict. Terrorism is a paradox—a topicalcontemporary, high-profile subject with clear relevance to the real-world today relevance, yetNevertheless with limited authentic and desperate shortage of research data available es in the area. Therefield there is an urgent need to encourage the younger researchers to take a keen n interest in continuing maintaining research activities .y in the area. Psycho-Social Effects of Terrorism on the Muslim World While nothing is easier than to denounce the evildoer, nothing is more difficult than to understand him. (Mikhailovich Dostovsky) The Muslim World has endured a succession of terrorist attacks in the last decade and faced the war against terrorism with endurance and resilience. The countries most affected were Iraq, Gaza, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and particularly the FATA region in Pakistan which has been labelled as the centre of terrorist training. Pakistan also became the first line of defense in this War on Terror. The most distressing aspect of this war is the amount of destruction, damage and killing of innocent civilians of these regions. Ironically the damage done following the declaration of this war is to a large extent much greater than the loss which resulted due to the actual terrorist incident of 9/11 in New York. The Muslims worldwide have confronted the worst degree of terrorism from the powers who claim to bring peace and justice in the world. It is logical and justifiable to control and battle against those who are involved in such degrading and inhumane acts of terrorism, however, some contemplation is necessary to remodel unreasonable and illogical methods or strategies chosen to fight this terrorism. The international media has been a major partner in this war against terrorism and played a key role in portraying religious extremism in Islam as the major cause of present-day terrorism. But this is untrue since Islam is primarily a religion of peace, love and harmony. Unfortunately, clerics who have limited knowledge of the teachings and values of the Islam have misguided some people for their vested interests. The misinterpretation of the teachings of Islam by irresponsible clerics has led to fanaticism. Islam is the most practical religion of the world. As narrated by Dr Muzammil H. Siddiqi:[26] The concept of human rights in Islam is based on two important principles: dignity of human beings and justice. Islam emphasizes that all human beings are honoured by Allah subhanahu wa taala. Allah wants all human beings to live in peace and harmony and for this reason He wants us to establish justice in this world. Without justice there is no dignity and without dignity and justice there cannot be any peace. There are several passages in the Holy Quran verifying the above narration: If any do fail to judge by (the light of) what God (Allah) hath revealed, they are (no better than) unbelievers. (Holy Quran 5:44). o ye who believe! Stand out firmly for God (Allah), as witnesses to fair dealing, and let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just: that is next to piety: and fear God (Allah). For God (Allah) is well-acquainted with all that ye do. (Holy Quran 5:8). Human blood is sacred in any case and cannot be spilled without justification. Violating this rule is equivalent to killing all of humanity: if anyone slew a person — unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land — it would be as if he slew the whole people. (Quran 5:32). Hence the Holy Quran advocates that death of a single human being is a death of humanity. At present it is vital to understand that words terrorism and war against terrorism apparently seems to be propaganda against Islam and Muslims. Such perceptions against Islam and the Muslims have taken a toll on the social, psychological and emotional well-being of Muslims in different parts of the world. (Zafar, 2007).[27] Psycho-Social Impacts of Gaza Conflict: On 31 January 2008, the Gaza Community Mental Health Programme (GCMHP) organized a Conference on Effects of Siege on Life and Mental Health of Palestinians in Gaza Strip. Taysir Diab, Clinical Psychiatrist and Supervisor at GCMHP, talked about the mental impacts of the siege based on GCMHPs experience. He stated that there It is not one, but were a group of bio-psycho social factors that which caused mental illness. Diab of these factors under the siege on Gaza; and that the and its psychological, physical and social impacts of these factors were clinically identifiable. The siege, he said, had a direct effect on the appearance of new psychiatricmental cases and the relapse of old ones. There are personal differences on the physical and psychological levels; there are protective factors such as religion, patriotism, norms and values, as well as social support. All these factors along with others contributed in the protection of individuals. and the development of new mental illnesses in the Palestinian people. According to Diab, a vast majority of the Palestinian populations were suffering from symptoms of psychiatricmental disorders. He pointed out that the clients of GCMHPs Community Centers suffered from various psychological problems, including panic, insecurity feelings of insecurity, easily provoked aggressiveness, anger, easily provoked, psychosomatic disorders, depression, frustration, low morale, fear, poor concentration, lack of belonging or affiliation, lack of confidence in self and others, emotional numbness,numbness, and PTSD symptoms., various physical complaint, Oobsessiveon-Ccompulsive Disorders were common, and there was a definite rise in illness relapses.rise in illness relapses. Diab further mentioned that the siege affected the vulnerable groups, in particular children who suffer increasingly from fear, panic, and at times apathylack the feeling of risks, tendency of sadness and insecurity feelings of insecurity., as well as Bbed-wetting and stutteringstuttering, was also a common presentation. He also pointed that the siege affected the mental health professionals in term of increasing their mental stresspressures and state of frustration, avoidance, nervousness, and professional burn-out. Furthermore, Ahmad Abu Tawahina, Senior Clinical Psychologist and Director General of GCMHP, statedmentioned that the major aimplan behind the siege imposed by Israel wasis to implantinstil panic and fear among the Palestinians citizens. He said: We, as Palestinians, must never live a frustrating and despairing life and have to get rid of the negative impacts of siege since life goes on, and the professionals must exert all efforts in order to help people cope with the difficult situations. Twahina also stated that it was vital that Palestinians should not drown in terror and fear since most of the above mentioned symptoms are natural reactions to a madcrazy reality. He also addressed the concept of victimof victim psychology and commented on the importance of offering the mental services for people who suffer from frequent depressions, and increasing concerns. According to him the mental suffering affects everybody but at different levels, and that theere is depression, anxiety, tension, and despair is prevalent at the entirewhole community levels. In his work paper, . Samir Zaqout, a psychologist at GCMHP, discussedtalked about the social changes resulting from the siege. He statedadded that: the siege started in 1948 when Israeli Occupation practiced siege policy in an attempt to deny the Palestinians their identity: The siege is doubled as it is imposed by Israel and the international community since they didnt allow the Palestinians to practice their rights in a democratic way. Further, Zaqout pointed that the siege affected the Palestinian social fabric and domestic relations as hatred and tendency of revenge increased among the Palestinians. It also affected the moral values and accepting the other as well as increasing inter and intra familial disputes and conflicts. Summing up the proceedings of the Conference Eyad el Sarraj pointed to the significance of highlighting such statistics and showing the direct impacts of the siege on the citizens. He stressed on the importance of the accuracy and avoiding exaggeration in stating any statistics. Sarraj focused on the victim psychology. He said: Since we, as Palestinians, shouldnt adopt the role of victim, and exaggerate in blaming others and defaming ourselves. Our priority should be national reconciliation and unity and supporting the Palestinian resiliency so as to achieve our legitimate rights, endorsed by international conventions. Concluding the conference the mental health experts reiterated that it was crucial that the siege must end and professionals must undertake their roles in the field of education and mental health. This would be the first step in to bring some semblance of normality to the lives of the Gaza Community. This step was vital, in order to enable them to cope with negative consequences of the siege and minimize the resultant burdens. Moreover, it was agreed to work on the promotion of mental resilience programs for ending the siege and developing coping strategies to counter the negative mental health consequences. It was agreed that the Palestinian people are steadfast and live with dignity, and should not bend or despair and take matters positively and effectively in order to resist all schemes aiming at weakening Palestinian social fabric, and to achieve the Palestinian rights in freedom, independence and establishing the Palestinian state. Further, the attendants emphasized the importance of working, as specialists in various fields, on influencing the decision makers in the Palestinian society and acquaint them with the destructive impacts of the siege at all levels, especially the mental health of the future Palestinian generations. The physical and mental health needs of sufferers of Gaza are extremely challenging to address, particularly the psychological and emotional crises. During the last Israeli military strike in the period from December 2008 to January 2009, approximately 1380 Palestinians were killed, of whom 431 were children and 112 women. (United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) (2009). At least 5380 people were injured, including 1872 children and 800 women. In these improvised settings within health facilities such as maternity wards and operating theatres were transformed into trauma units. The consequences must be drastic in terms of maternal and child morbidity and mortality because 3500 deliveries were expected to have taken place during the twenty-three days of military operations. Findings from a recent UNFPA assessment indicate that, during that period there was an increased number of miscarriages in pregnant women (Shifa, Al Aqsa, Naser, Rafah), and an increased neonatal mortality in Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. (UNFPA, (2009). According to World Health Organization (WHO), only the rough estimates show that during the last Gaza crisis 25000 to 50000 people underwent severe mental stress and need some form of psychological intervention to address long-term effects. Women, separated children, elderly people, and people with prior physical or mental disabilities are at high risk of severe emotional distress than others. The restoration of normal socioeconomic conditions, secure living

Marriage In Japan :: essays research papers

Marriage in Japan Why people get married? There would be many reasons; to save money, to escape from loneliness, to have a better life, and so on. But in most case people marry for love. Though it is almost always true, a married life is different between in the western culture and in Japan. A marriage in modern western culture is based on mutuality and companionship. In Western there is a tendency to be independent. Most college graduates live apart from their family and find an apartment near the working place. They have learned how to  ¡Ã‚ °survive ¡Ã‚ ± in single and marriage is an optional. However, a person in Japan who graduates from a college and has a job still lives with one ¡Ã‚ ¯s family until one gets married, which means one keeps the parent-child relationship. Therefore it is hard for a Japanese man to learn to be independent. After he gets married, he now relies on his bride for having foods, doing laundry, and many other things. Takeo Doi explains it with the te rm of amae that means the seeking or causing of oneself to be loved, nurtured, and indulged. He says it is an active attempt to make oneself into a passive love object. One reason why a man continues depending on someone else is that he has been witnessed what his parents have been done and now he considers himself as a head of his own family. In case of woman, it is difficult to keep her job after the marriage, because she needs to take care of her child, which is considered to be a wife ¡Ã‚ ¯s job. She has to do everything else except making money for the family, which makes her dependent on her husband who has the economic power. However in western culture, it is natural for both partners to have their own jobs and to be responsible for every single household job after marriage. Until recently it has been true in Japan but now it is changing. More women have their jobs rather than prepare to be a bride after the graduate. They don ¡Ã‚ ¯t need to get married if they don ¡Ã‚ ¯t want to. It has also become common not to have many children and some couples don ¡Ã‚ ¯t have a child at all. A younger bride could decide to divorce her husband if she wants to because she has a chance to get an economic independence easily nowadays. Marriage In Japan :: essays research papers Marriage in Japan Why people get married? There would be many reasons; to save money, to escape from loneliness, to have a better life, and so on. But in most case people marry for love. Though it is almost always true, a married life is different between in the western culture and in Japan. A marriage in modern western culture is based on mutuality and companionship. In Western there is a tendency to be independent. Most college graduates live apart from their family and find an apartment near the working place. They have learned how to  ¡Ã‚ °survive ¡Ã‚ ± in single and marriage is an optional. However, a person in Japan who graduates from a college and has a job still lives with one ¡Ã‚ ¯s family until one gets married, which means one keeps the parent-child relationship. Therefore it is hard for a Japanese man to learn to be independent. After he gets married, he now relies on his bride for having foods, doing laundry, and many other things. Takeo Doi explains it with the te rm of amae that means the seeking or causing of oneself to be loved, nurtured, and indulged. He says it is an active attempt to make oneself into a passive love object. One reason why a man continues depending on someone else is that he has been witnessed what his parents have been done and now he considers himself as a head of his own family. In case of woman, it is difficult to keep her job after the marriage, because she needs to take care of her child, which is considered to be a wife ¡Ã‚ ¯s job. She has to do everything else except making money for the family, which makes her dependent on her husband who has the economic power. However in western culture, it is natural for both partners to have their own jobs and to be responsible for every single household job after marriage. Until recently it has been true in Japan but now it is changing. More women have their jobs rather than prepare to be a bride after the graduate. They don ¡Ã‚ ¯t need to get married if they don ¡Ã‚ ¯t want to. It has also become common not to have many children and some couples don ¡Ã‚ ¯t have a child at all. A younger bride could decide to divorce her husband if she wants to because she has a chance to get an economic independence easily nowadays.

Kite Runner Redmption

One of the main themes of the novel The Kite Runner Is redemption. Throughout the novel, the main character, Amir, seeks redemption for his sins. Amir states in the first chapter of the novel that he has a past of â€Å"unatoned sins. † Throughout the novel, The Kite Runner, Khaled Hosseini uses the following symbols to express the theme of redemption: The scar above Amirs lip, the lamb and the blue kite. The scar above Amirs lip represents the redemption Amir attained by rescuing Sohrab.Amir travels to Afghanistan to rescue Sohrab, who is being exploited by a Taliban leader. The Taliban leader turns out to be an old enemy from Amirs childhood, Assef. Amir must fight Assef in order to leave with Sohrab. During the fight Amir is beaten brutally until Sohrab shoots Assef with his slingshot. Amir is left with a scar above his right lip, strikingly similar to the one Hassan had after having surgery for his cleft lip. At the beginning of the novel, Amir watches Hassan get raped, bu t he did not intervene.The guilt from that day haunts him throughout the novel. At one point, Amir even tries to force Hassan to beat him up, as though the only thing that could redeem Amir was being beaten, but Hassan does not and Amir is even more ridden with guilt. When Rakim Khan calls amir, he says, â€Å"Come, This is a chance for you to be good again. † It is clear Rakim Khan understood the guilt that Amir was feeling, and realized that Amir had been searching for redemption all his life. Khan new that rescuing Sohrab was the only way Amir could truly find redemption.The rescue of Sohrab, was the rescue of an innocent, the rescue of a lamb. Throughout the novel, a reoccurring image of a sacrificial lamb represents a path to redemption. Amir tells the reader how during the Muslim holiday of Eid-Al-Ahda, the Mullah sacrifices a lamb. The look on the lamb’s face during the sacrifice stays with Amir for the rest of his life. When Amir witnesses Asseff rape Hassan, h e remarks, â€Å"I caught a glimpse of his face. Saw the resignation in it. It was a look I had seen before. It was the look of the lamb.†Once more in the novel, Amir is reminded of the lamb, when he witnesses Asseff exploit Sohrab. The link between Hassan, Sohrab and the Lamb is their innocence; Because Amir betrayed an innocent Hassan, he must save an innocent to be redeemed, Sohrab is this innocent lamb. By ending the exploitation of this figurative lamb, Amir attains redemption for his sin. Finally, returning with the blue kite was an avenue of redemption for Amir. Every winter, in Kabul, there was a large kite-fighting tournament.The tournament was a big deal to the people of Kabul. Amir and Hassan won the tournament, but in order to truly be victorious, Hassan had to retrieve the blue kite so Amir could bring it home as a trophy. During the kite tournament Amir states, â€Å"All i saw was the blue kite. All i smelled was victory. Salvation. Redemption. † Specific ally, redemption in the eyes of Baba. Amir had stated earlier in the novel how he thought Baba thought of him as weak, but this was Amirs chance to be strong in the eyes of Baba, and end Amirs longing for Baba’s love.In conclusion, the rescue of Sohrab, the sacrificial lamb and the blue kite represent redemption for Amir’s sins. Redemption is a main theme of the novel, and Khaled Hosseini uses the aforementioned symbols to tell the story of Amir’s quest for redemption. Amir’s quest makes one question whether sometimes the sinner, is also the victim. As a mere child, Amir betrayed his friend, out of fear, out of cowardice, and out of selfishness, but he did not know that decision would haunt him for the rest of his life. Did he really deserve the punishment befallen on him?

Free Essays on Mr. Savo’s Epiphanies

Mr. Savo presents many thoughts on life by the comments he makes during events happening in Reuven’s stay in the hospital. His comments can relate to events that Reuven experiences. Mr. Savo’s comments on life can be broken down into three categories. His comments are based on life’s difficulties, life’s lack of remorse, and the people in life out to get you. Chaim Potok uses Mr. Savo as a foil character for Reuven to explore the challenges and difficulties that life can throw at anyone. After Danny visits Reuven, Mr. Savo asks who Danny was. Reuven tells him that Danny was the boy who hit him and that he, Reuven, could of ducked. Mr. Savo has a comment on people that are out to â€Å"clop† other people, â€Å"Anyone out to clop you doesn’t want you to duck, kid, I know†(76). This comment shows the reader that Mr. Savo is familiar with clopping people. Mr. Savo is one of the people out to clop people and he doesn’t want the people to â€Å"duck†. Even though Mr. Savo’s comment is false in Danny’s case it is found to be true in general. The comment relates to Reuven’s experience with Danny. Mr. Savo’s comment is like a foreshadowing for Reuven because it turns out that Danny did not want to hit Reuven. Danny explains to Reuven that, he hits straight to the pitcher because of his hitting style. Danny’s close call with the pitcher before Reuven was also unintentional. Mr. Savo’s introduction seems rough and the reader perceives the idea that Mr. Savo is a fighter and is tough, â€Å" ‘Chicken’ the man to my left said. ‘Who can do a ten rounder on chicken?’ †(43). This comment, from Mr. Savo, shows that he is looking to â€Å"clop† someone. The reader sees that Mr. Savo is the kind of person in life that is out to clop people. Mr. Savo also tells Reuven, â€Å" ‘Tough as a ring post,’ Mr. Savo said, grinning at me. ‘But a great heart.’ †(44). This comment from Mr. Savo can be int... Free Essays on Mr. Savo’s Epiphanies Free Essays on Mr. Savo’s Epiphanies Mr. Savo presents many thoughts on life by the comments he makes during events happening in Reuven’s stay in the hospital. His comments can relate to events that Reuven experiences. Mr. Savo’s comments on life can be broken down into three categories. His comments are based on life’s difficulties, life’s lack of remorse, and the people in life out to get you. Chaim Potok uses Mr. Savo as a foil character for Reuven to explore the challenges and difficulties that life can throw at anyone. After Danny visits Reuven, Mr. Savo asks who Danny was. Reuven tells him that Danny was the boy who hit him and that he, Reuven, could of ducked. Mr. Savo has a comment on people that are out to â€Å"clop† other people, â€Å"Anyone out to clop you doesn’t want you to duck, kid, I know†(76). This comment shows the reader that Mr. Savo is familiar with clopping people. Mr. Savo is one of the people out to clop people and he doesn’t want the people to â€Å"duck†. Even though Mr. Savo’s comment is false in Danny’s case it is found to be true in general. The comment relates to Reuven’s experience with Danny. Mr. Savo’s comment is like a foreshadowing for Reuven because it turns out that Danny did not want to hit Reuven. Danny explains to Reuven that, he hits straight to the pitcher because of his hitting style. Danny’s close call with the pitcher before Reuven was also unintentional. Mr. Savo’s introduction seems rough and the reader perceives the idea that Mr. Savo is a fighter and is tough, â€Å" ‘Chicken’ the man to my left said. ‘Who can do a ten rounder on chicken?’ †(43). This comment, from Mr. Savo, shows that he is looking to â€Å"clop† someone. The reader sees that Mr. Savo is the kind of person in life that is out to clop people. Mr. Savo also tells Reuven, â€Å" ‘Tough as a ring post,’ Mr. Savo said, grinning at me. ‘But a great heart.’ †(44). This comment from Mr. Savo can be int...

Mideval heros essays

Mideval heros essays During the medieval era, many different heroes proved to be chivalric. Three of these heroes are Beowulf, Sir Gawain, and King Arthur. All these men have won great battles, which in turn endow them with hero status among their faithful subjects. These three heroes possess chivalric qualities, but none of them are perfect. All three have weaknesses and strengths, which give them the ultimate challenge of proving themselves chivalric. Beowulf exhibits many weaknesses and strengths, which he portrays in battle. He doesnt believe in using weapons in battle. When he fights the dragon, he becomes mortally wounded because of his old age and slow reflexes. On the might of his hand, as a man must do who thinks to win in the welter of battle enduring glory; he fears not death (Shaw 1). His beliefs have proven to be unwise. He should have realized sooner that letting his fate overthrow his wisdom would get the best of him in the end. There is no question that he is a great warrior, however, he lets his courage overtake his good judgment. The infamous killer fought for his freedom, wanting no flesh but retreat, desiring nothing but escape; his claws had been caught, he was trapped (Anonymous 31-32). By leading his army into successful battles, Beowulf proves his chivalry. He understands what needs to be done to win, and this is one of his greatest strengths. However, while Beowulf has good intentions, his wea knesses outweigh his strengths. Sir Gawain, from the story SGGK, also has many strengths and weaknesses. When the Green Knight challenges King Arthur, Sir Gawain tells him: This affair is too foolish to fall you (Shaw 1). Sir Gawain knows that the possible death of the king would be destructive to the community. His honor is set by his loyalty to his king. His downfall comes soon after: When the lord returns on the third day, Gawain gives him a kiss but does ...

Thesis Topic Effect of bullying in childhood on the future of a person Essay

Thesis Topic Effect of bullying in childhood on the future of a person - Essay Example Thus if there is a question as to if bullying behavior continues into adulthood, then from which age it continues will be question that will remain unanswered. Therefore, if any intervention is designed to change a psychosocial parameter in the school age children in order to prevent bullying behavior in the adulthood, that remains questionable since literature also suggests bullying behavior in the childhood is determined by may age-specific psychosocial parameters that can be changed. In other words, since isolation of influence of student age on the effect on bullying involvement and school climate has not been addressed in this study, this part of the bullying behavior will remain unanswered. While physical behaviors are overt, it must be remembered that relational type behaviors remain covert in school-age children. Some studies have shown that these covert behaviors are difficult to discern both by patents at home and teachers at school. Childhood relational aggressions are les s likely to be reported, while they are also bullying behaviors (Solberg and Olweus, 2003). Since prevalence of bullying in childhood is a relational determinant of the adulthood bullying behavior, accurate estimates of both are necessary to establish a relationship if there is any. Prevalence of bullying is highly dependent on the behaviors studied and how questions about bullying are framed and asked (Hawkins et al., 2005). Childhood bullying has been hypothesized to be a specific type of antisocial behavior that can yield adult antisocial personality disorder. However, there are cases of adulthood antisocial personality disorders which may have no bullying history. From the psychiatric point of view, the aggressive behavior in the childhood may continue similarly in the adulthood due to persistence of impairments of both the recognition of emotional stimuli and cognitive control of emotional behavior. Therefore, it can be argued that these problems may arise de novo in the adulthood, and if it originates in the childhood bullying is just a manifestation of this problem. The ignorance of social and environmental factors in development factors in development and continuation of bullying may turn out to be the most important fallacy in the whole proposition, and this study will fail to answer this, as to how these are related to future behavioral deviance (Mason et al., 2004). As this study shows, although there are aggression and behavioral problems in both the bully and the bully victims, there is a definite higher risk of adverse long-term psychopathologic outcomes trailing into the adulthood in cases of the bully victims. Studies have also shown that bully victim groups were more vulnerable for development of deviant behavioral problems in the adulthood. Although the findings from this study suggest that both bullying and victimization during early school years can be taken as public health signs of identification of subjects who are at risk of suffering psychiatric disorders in early adulthood, the causal relationship of both separately can be difficult to establish with the same rationale (Fekkes et al., 2004). This study cannot answer this question as to how

Are the Council of Ministers and the European Commission Essay

Are the Council of Ministers and the European Commission interdependent or competing institutions - Essay Example These institutions are responsible for the formation of public policy after series of arguments and discussions among the members and it is true that they consider the interest of the Union rather than that of member states while making important decisions and therefore assumes a higher degree of independence. The unique institutional structure of the European Union sets it apart from other traditional institutions as the entire member states have agreed to focus more on the national interest. Each of these institutions has a unique role to play in the decision making process by complementing each other. This paper is an attempt to analyse the importance and interdependence of the Council of Ministers and the European Commission. The council of ministers The most prominent among all the institutions of European Union is the Council of Ministers which instigated to draw more attention after the integration of European Community. According to Alex Warleigh, â€Å"the council of minist ers is the collective noun for the member state representatives who meet to take final decision on all EU legislative proposals† (Warleigh, p.26). ... On the other hand there are experts who consider the Council as an obstruction to the political incorporation which always hinder the innovative ideas suggested by the Commission and the Parliament. But the true fact is that the Council protects the people of the EU from profligate European proposals and also controls the powerful politicians from the member states and direct their state oriented discussions towards a shared and expanding policy agenda (Warleigh, p.1). The structure The council of ministers which encompasses one minister from each member states of the EU meets frequently in Brussels or in Luxembourg in order to make legislative decisions. EU nations choose the appropriate minister to represent them in the Council according to the subject under consideration. Each member nation holds the presidency for a period of six months which rotates among them. The Committee of Permanent Representatives which is also known as COREPER and the general secretariat prepare most of t he work to be done by the Council. COREPER consists of officials from different governments of the member states. Decisions of the Council are made on the basis of vote and the population of each state is the factor which determines the weight of its vote (Pearson Education, publishing, 2011). It is comparatively an easy task to identify the institutions of a member state where the legislative and executive powers are easily distinguishable. But in the case of European Union such a distinction is hard to make as the executive powers are shared between the Commission and the Council and the legislative powers between the Council and the Parliament and therefore the Council of Ministers possess both the executive and legislative functions.