My First Conk from Malcolm X Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

My First Conk from Malcolm X - Essay Example Blacks thus degrade their natural bodies without realizing that such degradations are embarrassing as Malcolm says that it seems foolish to see women having green and pink wigs to look like whites. Moreover, none of the blacks are ever thinking of gaining similar education or intelligence as that of the whites (Malcolm, 131). Conked hair and wigs illustrates that blacks have been brainwashed because even in the modern world, most blacks still feel inferior to the whites. Blacks are always ready to endure the pain of conk hair even after knowing that it does not make a black person more adorable. This is based on the argument by Malcolm that no woman will admire a man based on his hair appearance no matter how well the conk is; it does not add any value to the man (Malcolm, 136). In conclusion, before Malcolm realized that conk hair was a degradation of his natural body, he was willing to endure the pain to look like the whites but after he discovered that blacks had been brainwashed to think they are inferior to the whites, he has never had a conk (Malcolm, 141). All black individuals need to do as Malcolm did and instead of trying to be like the whites, they should instead study hard to better than the

Playing God

Playing God Playing God What is science? In the nineteenth century many believed it was attempting to play God. During this era new scientific discoveries in Europe were immense, and controversy over them was extreme. Not only did this new movement challenge the principles of Christianity but the belief in God. â€Å"Mary Shelleys Frankenstein through Victor Frankensteins perilous journey shows the destruction behind mans thirst for scientific knowledge and the ethical reasons as to why man should not play God (cite).† Victor Frankenstein attempts to go beyond human bounds and undertake in the greatest mistake of his life. â€Å"Victors experiment created in the name of science holds the key to which Victor believes is his future success (cite).† â€Å"The Accomplishment of his toils† is described as a wretched male figure formed from the corpses of others (Frankenstein, 34). Through his efforts, Frankenstein brings this figure to life, and his desire to succeed and discover impel him to play God. It was the secrets of heaven and earth that [he] desired to learn; and whether it was the outward substance of things or the inner spirit of nature and the mysterious soul of man that occupied [him] (22) (cite.) However, Frankenstein is so deeply captivated with bringing about life that he fails to recognize the moral affects the creature will have on society, and most importantly that there could possibly be an explanation we cant create life unnaturally or be immortal. After the completion of his experiment, Frankenstein begins to recognize some of the consequences when he states, â€Å"how can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe, or how delineate the wretch whom with such infinite pain and care I had endeavoured to form?(34) (cite). Is it not irresponsible and foolish to create life from death, while what is alive is not fully comprehended? When Frankenstein saw his creation and admitted his dissatisfaction, some may ask why he would create such a monster knowing it would definitely not fit into society. The clear explanation would be he fears his own death, thus trying to obtain the knowledge of life to prevent it. â€Å"Frankensteins scientific pursuit is for his selfish means, not for the betterment of society.† Frankenstein remarks by saying, â€Å"The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind† (34). â€Å"The novel goes on to prove this could be no farther from the truth. By simply addressing the issue that some scientists may be ‘erroneously directed, Frankenstein shows he is considering the ulterior motives of his plans. He is recognizing that his motives may not be for the ‘advantage of man kind, and that this would be simply a bi-product of his creation.† Frankenstein also fails to realize what society would think of his creature and how the creature would be affected by the general public. The creature is sent out into the world with the temperament of man, but entirely lacking the guidance and nurturing that all creatures need. This role playing of God is not what man was intended for, and children are made of a sperm and egg, not the hands of man. Who could handle the responsibility of controlling life? Only a Divine Power could control such an intricate process, and is a responsibility no person could endure. Victor takes many simple things for granted in his life, which are symbolized through the monster. I am alone and miserable: man will not associate with me; but one as deformed and horrible as myself would not deny herself to me (129). All the monster requests is someone to share his life with, to live happily, and be loved; and through these pleasures the monster witnesses happiness. Victors scientific pursuit interferes with his life and ruins his happiness. He loses the desire for companionship because of his endeavors, and though Elizabeth longs for his return, he is too engaged in his work. Frankenstein has an opportunity to be happy, but the monster is never given the chance. â€Å"This presents Shelleys argument that when you allow things such as science to get in the way of your true needs, such as love, you will not live a life worth living. Frankenstein and his monster are both miserable because they both live their life without love.† He solved the most incomprehens ible question, he reached the peak of scientific understanding, he accomplished his goals, yet he is miserable. â€Å"For this I had deprived myself of rest and health. I had desired it with an ardour that far exceeded moderation; but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart† (42). Shelley purposely lets Frankenstein accomplish his goal, but she makes a point that if the scientific knowledge of life cant bring happiness then no scientific knowledge can. Victor is so infatuated with completing his task and achieving fame that he fails to realize the lasting affects or consequences of his breakthrough. Shelley makes a valid argument that in many ways, we would all be better off without complex scientific thought: â€Å"Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow (38). Victor advises Walton by declaring, â€Å"Seek happiness in tranquility and avoid ambition, even if it be only the apparently innocent one of distinguishing yourself in science and discoveries (200). This passage evidently discusses Victors selfishness in fulfilling his objective. Shelley argues that scientists who are only seeking fame and fortune do not consider the long term effects and will be considered notorious.

Ancient Indian Architecture :: Papers

Ancient Indian Architecture The Science of Architecture and Civil Construction was known in Ancient India as Sthapatya-Shastra. The word Sthapatya is derived from the root word Sthapana i.e. 'to establish'. The technique of architecture was both a science and an art, hence it is also known as Sthapatya-kala, the word Kala means an art. From very early times the construction of temples, palaces, rest houses and other civil construction was undertaken by professional architects known as Sthapati. Even during the Vedic times, there existed professionals who specialized in the technique of constructing chariots and other heavy instruments of war. These professionals have been referred to in the Rig Veda as Rathakara which literally means 'chariot maker'. The excavations of the ruins at Mohenjodaro and Harrappa (today in Pakistan) proved the existence of a developed Urban civilization in India. The Indus valley civilization is dated around 3000 B.C. Thus since the last 5000 years. India has had an urban civilization. The existence of an urban civilization presumes the existence of well developed techniques of architecture and construction. These techniques would no doubt have had been systematically stated in record books for transmitting them to the later generations as well for being used as reference media for actual construction. Unfortunately, as far as the Indus Valley civilization goes no such records have been preserved either as rock edicts, manuscripts, etc., or in folk tales and legends. But the fact that cities on the scale of Mohenjodaro had been constructed bear testimony to the existence of a systematized and highly developed technique of architecture 5000 years ago. But in the later ages, from about the 7th century B.C., we have both literature references as well as archeological evidences to prove the existence of large urban civilizations in the Ganges Valley. Like in most other sciences, even remotely connected with religion, in architecture also the scientific ideas and techniques have been integrated with philosophy and theology. This was so as the majority of the large constructions were temples.

Obstacles

Even with the aided eyesight, It was still hard to see In lass, and I was often forced to sit In the front row, away from my group of friends. Being unable to see as everyone else caused me to believe I wasn't as good as everyone else, and my school work was deemed unsatisfactory. I refused to talk or answer questions In class, and that habit has stuck with me to this day. Although my eyesight will remain Inadequate until It can be surgically fixed, I was able to overcome It In the last few years.I excel In honors and AP classes, earning AS and Bi's, and I have been able to maintain a steady social life. Because of contacts, I gained a ewe level of self-esteem that allowed me to become more open to people and less introverted. I'm no longer afraid to speak in class, although it's still sometimes necessary to move myself to the front of the class to see well. At first, being almost legally blind was an enormous burden, and it takes wide shoulders to carry such an encumbrance.Recently, my eyesight hasn't been too much of a hindrance, but its trouble always makes its appearance known when I play volleyball. Being a Libber/ Defensive Specialist, my job is to pass the balls directly to my setter or close enough where she can get them. This is one of the hardest Jobs on the court, and it's even more difficult because of my eyesight. It is nearly impossible for me to Judge distances because I have little depth perception, and it has become increasingly challenging to see exactly where the ball is going.This makes it hard to pass at times, and can often result in a bad play or even a missed point. My greatest fear is being a disappointment to someone, and when this happens, I feel like I'm letting my team and my coach down. My inability to see has crippled both me and my volleyball career, but my determination can help me overcome this adversity. Through practice and willpower, I will improve my skills as a libber, even if my eyesight hinders me more often than not.I c hoose to become better for myself, and to prove to myself and others that my dedication Is stronger than my failures. I refuse to let my disability to get the best of me, In school, volleyball, and my relationships with friends and family. People will always tell you that things will get better, and I'm here to shine some truth on that statement. It won't happen on Its own, however. To achieve happiness or some other goal, you must work diligently to overcome anything In your ay, no matter how tall the mountain Is o how wide the ocean you have to cross.The only way to get across Is to keep going. Especially in sports and school. In class and my social life. Even with the aided eyesight, it was still hard to see in class, and I was often forced to sit in the front row, away from my group of friends. Answer questions in class, and that habit has stuck with me to this day. Although my eyesight will remain inadequate until it can be surgically fixed, I was able to overcome it in the las t few years. I excel in honors and AP classes, earning As and Bi's,Recently, my eyesight hasn't been too much of a hindrance, but its trouble always Specialist, my Job is to pass the balls directly to my setter or close enough where she and others that my dedication is stronger than my failures. I refuse to let my disability to get the best of me, in school, volleyball, and my relationships with friends some truth on that statement. It won't happen on its own, however. To achieve happiness or some other goal, you must work diligently to overcome anything in your way, no matter how tall the mountain is o how wide the ocean you have to cross. The only way to get across is to keep going.

My Thoughts On Ethnicity and race Essay

Race and ethnicity is a very interesting topic to think about. The distinction between race and ethnicity is not always clear to a lot of people. To me race is your physical appearance and ethnicity is your cultural background. My race is white but my ethnicity is Irish and scottish. Although my race is white and someone who is polish might also be white our cultures are not the same. When you are asked to specify race/ethnicity on a form i think it is not fair because there are thousands of things you could potentially be that dont neccesarily fit into the small choice of boxes they give you. I think a lot of people don’t know the difference because race and ethnicity are often listed together leading people to think that they are the same thing I don’t think race and ethnicity should be an issue. Any one person no matter what background they are from was born and will die just the same. It is natural for people to want to group themselves with others who look, speak or behave in similar patterns. Essentially humans are animals and most animals are more comfortable with the familiar. Athough it is natural to group ourselves organically in this way, i dont think having to catogorize yourself into a group on forms and surveys is ever going to help anything. Throughout my life I’ve had a lot of contact with many different ethnicities and races. I went to school where the i was not part of the majority. I was one of the few white people in my class and it was a big issue for me then because being the minority i was treated differently. I was frequently called â€Å"the white girl† by my classmates. At first it bothered me but I became more comfortable. I think being the minority in school helped me learn how to get along with people from different backgrounds. My ability to get along with almost anyone i can attribute to my experience in school. I have also gained a soft spot for anyone getting treated differently for their race or ethnicity. I have heard friends and family make remarks about race but it isnt often that they are positive. A nearby neighborhood is going through a gentrification. The rents in the area have incresed leading people in the area to move into my neighborhood. The people moving in are mostly black and hispanic. Many people are attributing the rise in crime in the area to the people that have been migrating in. Before this migration the neighborhood was mostly Italian, Irish and german. I dont know what to think about this development but i hear a lot of predjudiced things being said that i dont agree with. I think most negative comments come from learned steriotypes. These things can be learned from family, friends or even the media. Many people have the potential to be predjudiced to a certain degree but for the most part i think it is a learned behavior. I believe in the future as races and ethnicities become more and more mixed that prejudice will decrese drastically. Any advantages of stressing these racial and ethnic issues i believe is to try to be fair. One of these advantages is the government requires some companies and schools to hire/accept a certain quota of minorities. This is good because it gives a lot of people opportunities that they might not have gotten because of someone being prejudiced against them. I also think it could be a litte unfair because someone more qualified might not get a spot because of these quotas. I think how you turn out socially, economically, and morally is attributed to your family. If you are from a rich family you are born knowing what having money is like and how to manage it. If you are born poor it is much more difficult to move out of the cycle of poverty. It is because of this that some people see minority communities in a bad light but i just think they are stuck in the cycle of povery. Minority families not so long ago were kept down by racism. Most politicians are prodominantly white at the moment. Once politics become more diverse i think the balance of wealth will begin to shift and ethnicity/race will become less important. Ethnicity and race is a topic of great interest to many people. It affects our laws, advertizing and a plethora of other things. I personally dont feel like it should matter at all what you are on the outside or what culture you have. We are all people and i hope one day that everyone can just treat everyone the same regardless of race or ethnicity.

The detective genre Essays

The detective genre Essays The detective genre Essay The detective genre Essay His most famous feature is his intelligence, which he demonstrates very modestly. He always presents his deductions with an air of understatement: There is no mystery, my dear madam. As Holmes listens to Helen Stoners story in The Speckled Band, the same quiet confidence and ability to encourage and reassure in very few words is apparent. He talks very little compared to his visitor, but has the ability to listen completely attentively to every detail of her description, Leaning back in his chair with his eyes closed Sherlock Holmes tends to have a great deal of concentration and imagination as he questions Helen Stoner and contemplates the situation, as he has a fair idea of the real events of the story before he leaves his room. The detective work is done within his mind and his visit to the scene of the crime is really only to confirm what he has already deduced. Sherlock Holmes is a hard working, observant character, unlike the police, the public had lost faith in the police and it was down to Doyle to make Sherlock Holmes a detective who could actually continuously unravel clues, solve crimes and build public hope. The other great appeal of the compilation of stories is that the modern reader sees a real historical period of living, which has now passed by. As readers like to see life in olden days, Doyle represents this brilliantly in his stories. In The Speckled Band there is the reference to the dogcart in which Victorians travelled around in, to the attire of Helen Stoner when she visits Holmes. She raised her veil as she spoke and we could see that she was indeed in a pitiable state of agitation, her face all drawn and gray, with restless, frightened eyes, like those of some hunted animal. Her features and figure were those of a woman of thirty, but her hair was shot with premature gray, and her expression was weary and haggard. The reference to the veil shows the audience that something as gone wrong, as people only tend to wear veils either if your getting married or if someone has died as its tradition to wear such garments.

Personality Analysis of the film Mr. Mom essays

Personality Analysis of the film Mr. Mom essays The comedy film Mr. Mom stars Michael Keaton who plays Jack Butler, a recently laid-off Dad who must stay at home with his kids while his wife begins a new job. Jack must learn to deal with his new role as a household husband, accept his wifes new role as the breadwinner, and balance the identity transformations that come along with a life change. The films introduction reads: Jack and Caroline Butler are perfectly happy with their roles in life...until a layoff makes him a househusband and her a working wife! And while she wrangles with charts, graphs, and an all-to-eager-to-be wrangled boss, he has to contend with their hyper kids, a ravenous vacuum cleaner, an angry washing machine, and an oversexed neighbor! From late nights in the boardroom to lonely nights in the bedroom, the biggest challenge for both Jack and Caroline is learning to trust one another with their reversed roles...(MGM, 1983) Jack is a typical forty-something male struggling to maintain his identity, and to do so, he uses a variety of defense mechanisms to relieve his internal anxiety. Jack has many concrete beliefs on gender roles, and it is difficult for him to overstep his masculine boundaries. The theories of Freud and Erikson can be applied to Jacks situation and actions throughout the film. In the text, Personality Theories, the author identifies the defense mechanism theory by Freud as procedures that ward off anxiety and prevent our conscious perception of it (Engler, 1999, p.50). There are nine dominant defense mechanisms, and Jack Butler uses many of them during the course of the film. He had just learned of his job loss when he first uses a mechanism. Jack began rationalizing with his co-workers to help himself and the others feel better. He said to his co-workers, when your down, your not necessarily out, and keep that sense of ...