Moral Quandary of Race Essay

In his book, â€Å"I am not a Racist, But†¦The Moral Quandary of Race,† Lawrence A. Blum, a professor of Philosophy and Liberal Arts, ventures into unrecognized and little known aspects of racism. His definition and analysis of racism and its implications, projects the vastness of the subject, which had generally been regarded as just a white attitude. Blum describes racism as antipathy towards individuals of a racialized group, stemming from â€Å"inferiorization† or the idea that the group is inferior in relation to other groups. Blum considers a person to be a racist only when he intentionally makes racist comments or jokes, driven by racial antipathy. He feels that the moral significance of the term ‘racism’ seems to be losing its value, as it is being overused or too commonly used. Today, in practical life, any direct or indirect references which affect feelings of racial groups are considered racist. This not only dilutes the very meaning of racism but also weakens its power of ethical condemnation. The word ‘racism’ and its related terminology needs to be more clear, due to its relevance in personal racism, racist, racist beliefs at various levels. The author feels the term ‘racism’ is being more used out of context, like black students intending to sit with other black students for lunch or white teacher being uncomfortable talking with the black parents, which are all regarded as racism. The book also emphasizes the need to report race-based statistical data with greater care and concern as they influence individual perceptions. The statistical differences among the views of racial groups must be projected without any overracialization (p35). Overstating the differences of such views would only reinforce A book review 3 an individual’s racist opinion and close them to persuading arguments or rational conversation. Opposing the general notion that racial groups have a common agenda with regard to their group, Blum emphasizes the need to recognize the existence of internal diversity within social groups. Racial groups with a sizable population cannot have a single opinion or viewpoint. Several factors including age, gender, religion, culture etc. influence the formation of a viewpoint of an individual (p55). Blum therefore attributes it to misrecognition or inadequate recognition rising from ignorance, when any single viewpoint is attributed to an entire race. Although Blum feels that whites should not forget their relevance and association with racism, he adds that racism is not confined only to the whites. For instance Chinese, Japanese, and blacks too exhibit racist attitude to other colored people and whites. The belief of their racial superiority is developed by colored people, which makes them regard other groups inferior (p33). In this book, Blum indicates our hypersensitivity to the word ‘racism’ and suggests that racist insensitivity and subconscious racial intolerance are indeed acts, which need to be eliminated, but need not be tagged as ‘racist’. Blum is of the opinion that racial prejudice is an unavoidable consequence of cultural diversity. Our view and way of life today is associated with racist ideologies, which we have inherited. The concept of race had developed from the sixteenth century, A book view 4 reaching its peak in the late nineteenth century. History holds the key for our present interpretation on human diversity in terms of similarity, differences and superiority among races (p109). Blum explores the idea of doing away with the concept of race, but warns that it should be only after all associated wrongdoings are fully addressed. The book covers all vital aspects of racism including its history and, what we actually mean and think of race. It incorporates much useful information on the topic, carefully thought and reasoned, illustrated by suitable examples. â€Å"I am not a Racist, But†¦The Moral Quandary of Race† is indeed an important book not only to scholars but also to the common man in quest of understanding racism.

Essay on “Analyze, Don’t Summarize” by Michael Berube Essay

Berube analogize student’s essays and watching sports commentary on ESPN, because students tend to summarize in their essays instead of analyzing it. Berube uses an example as to what he is trying to explain that the world of sports is metacommentary and no one actually summarizes on how the game is being played. Instead they analyze, they just point out the important part of the game. In the tenth paragraph he quotes â€Å"Well, Tony let me point out that last night, the Red Sox swept the Tigers and crept to within three games of the Yankees.† And then he quotes that â€Å"†¦I’m just pointing out that the Sox won 3-1, on a four hitter by Schilling, while the Yanks blew another late-inning lead.† Page 304 Berube uses this comparison to explain that no one summarizes the sports because no one in the sports world confuses summaries with analyses, meaning that he discuss the importance of what a thesis should look like. He quotes that â€Å"†¦When I tell them that an observation is not a thesis†¦Ã¢â‚¬  he wants students to write a paper in which the thesis can be arguable and to bring to the public’s attention, just as sports commentary do; pointing out the essential parts of the game. Berube’s response to student’s writing is to â€Å"Assume a hypothetical readership composed of people who have already read the book. That means that you shouldn’t say â€Å"In class, we discussed the importance in the clam chowder in chapter five. But more important it means you don’t have to summarize the novel†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Berube most convincing analogy would be when he quoted the Red Sox won 3-1with the Yankees. He gave two specific examples of what the difference of analyzing and summarizing. What he wants his papers look like. Well he uses the comparison with sports because what he wants his students to know that what he looks for is a paper that catches the pub lic’s attention. He wants main points just as commentators argue about when a game is being played. Berube’s least convincing analogy was when he says that â€Å"sport talks are nothing but an entire entourage of chattering parasites.† What did he really meant if this is what he is trying to compare with his student’s writings and sports. This is why sports monocommentary is supposed to be doing –arguing about the game not just â€Å"Chattering† like he says. The author expresses the difference between analyzing and summarizing simply by contradicting himself with the rest of the essay, because he mentioned he wants his papers to be arguable just as sports talks should be. Berube says  that sports talks’ analogy is useful simply as a handy way of distinguishing between summary and analysis. â€Å"When a student paper cites textual evidence so compelling and unusual that it makes me go back and read passage in a question (good!) †¦Ã¢â‚¬ he quotes and a â€Å"suggests that a novel conclusion fails to resolve the questions and tensions raised by the rest of the narrative or makes claim that are directly contradicted by the literary text its self (bad!)†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (page 304) The significance of his point that â€Å"an observation is not a thesis means† because a thesis is usually an arguable piece of writing and in most cases factual and an observation is what is perceived by one at the moment meaning only you can base an opinion of what you just saw. In this paragraph Berube emphasizes his point on analyzing, summarizing, and sports talks. The above paragraph shows the author’s black and white thinking about his student’s papers. He believes that there are only two choices; one is the right choice and the other is not, deciding whether you sound right or not, â€Å"I simply know an A paper when I see one.† Audience of Berube’s essay could be anyone, but most likely his students. According to paragraph fifteen, he’s been using ESPN or sport talks as his source to compare it with his student’s essays. As I get to the end of the essay, I realized that Berube wasn’t able to answer his own question. But he was able to successfully compare analyzing and summarizing by giving easy and understandable reasons and resources.

Mechanism Of Trade Dispute Settlement In The Light Of International Dissertation

Mechanism Of Trade Dispute Settlement In The Light Of International Trading System - Dissertation Example Dispute settlement is one of the fundamental components of these. This research will identify these dispute settlement mechanisms and examine whether these are effective, problematic or insufficient. In order to achieve the primary objective, the secondary objectives, which follows, would also be pursued: 1. identify and define the types of dispute settlement mechanisms; 2. cite actual cases that has been acted on and formed part of the global system’s trade jurisprudence; and, 3. examine the efficacy and the success of each identified mechanisms in dispute resolution. Methodology This study is primarily a descriptive research. Hence, it will exclusively use the qualitative method of inquiry with the idea that such approach would be able to reveal a comprehensive and credible picture that would contribute to the achievement of the study’s objectives. The qualitative approach is important because of the study’s focus on examining issues related to the efficacy of dispute settlement mechanisms in relation to the needs and interest of each trading nation. There is a need to deal with the dispute mechanisms by investigating through specific individual cases of disputes and settlement. This researcher is of the opinion that, in this context, the method is the best tool to uncover weaknesses and unique strengths among the dispute settlement mechanisms. An important component of the research methodology is the case study. According to Katsirikou and Skiadas (2010), it is the preferred strategy in order to answer how and why research questions and that it is a well-suited method to empirically investigate contemporary phenomena.1 Following the... This study is primarily a descriptive research. Hence, it will exclusively use the qualitative method of inquiry with the idea that such approach would be able to reveal a comprehensive and credible picture that would contribute to the achievement of the study’s objectives. The qualitative approach is important because of the study’s focus on examining issues related to the efficacy of dispute settlement mechanisms in relation to the needs and interest of each trading nation. There is a need to deal with the dispute mechanisms by investigating through specific individual cases of disputes and settlement. This researcher is of the opinion that, in this context, the method is the best tool to uncover weaknesses and unique strengths among the dispute settlement mechanisms. An important component of the research methodology is the case study. According to Katsirikou and Skiadas, it is the preferred strategy in order to answer how and why research questions and that it is a well-suited method to empirically investigate contemporary phenomena. Following the descriptive and exploratory parameter cited earlier, case studies will be employed in order to explain in detail a particular case and that it could provide the basis for comparison and theory building. The Literature Review section will play an important role as well. For example, policy- and decision-making are likely to employ more than one synthesis method. This, would lead to different types of evidence identified as relevant to the range of research objectives outlined.

Marketing Strategy of Apple Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 15000 words

Marketing Strategy of Apple - Dissertation Example Over the last decade, Apple redefined the music and cellphone business, and the entertainment and media world by introducing IPod, IPhone and IPad. With the motivation to evaluate the marketing strategy of Apple, which enabled it to bring about a turnaround, this research is being conducted. Three objectives were set in Chapter I and after extensive literature review in Chapter II, questionnaire was designed to collect primary data from students. All three objectives have been achieved. The study finds that in the high technology products it has become critical to redefine businesses and reshape markets, thereby aligning with the changing demands of the firm’s business environment. To gain competitive advantage new pricing models, innovative value proposition, or customer-driven supply networks or finding new means of â€Å"touching† the customers has become essential. Brand management, customer segmentation, product positioning and customer behavior engagement are bein g applied by marketers. In the case of high-tech products product positioning has to be based on definite and tangible characteristics – unique selling point (USP) of the product. ... Apple also adopts bundling pricing and reference pricing strategy. In the international market Apple standardizes product, place and promotion strategies globally, so that all products sold worldwide carry the same design, package, advertising, posters and slogan. Prices vary depending on local taxes applicable. Thus, the marketing strategy of Apple can be said to be effective as they have been able to achieve the expected synergies. Table of Contents Chapter One: Introduction 1.1 Research Topic 1 1.2 Overview of Apple Inc. 2 1.3 Rationale for the study 2 1.4 Research Aims and Objectives 1.5 Research Framework Chapter Two: Literature Review 2.1 Chapter Overview 2.2 Introduction to Marketing Strategy 2.2.1 Principles of Marketing Strategy 2.2.2 Market Segmentation and Target Selection 2.2.3 Brand Image and Brand Equity 2.2.4 Product Positioning 2.2.5 Customer Engagement Behavior 2.3 Marketing Mix 2.3.1 Products 2.3.2 Pricing 2.3.3 Promotions 2.3.3.1 Advertising 2.3.3.2 Personal Sellin g 2.3.3.3 Sales Promotion 2.3.3.4 Public Relations 2.3.3.5 Direct Marketing 2.3.4 Place 2.3.4.1 Types of Intermediary 2.3.4.2 The Internet 2.4 International Marketing Strategy 2.4.1 Porter’s Generic Strategy in Digital Age 2.4.2 Effectiveness of the marketing strategy 2.5 Overview of the Computer Industry 2.6 Overview of Apple Inc Chapter Three: Methodology 3.1 Chapter Overview 3.2 Research Phenomenon under study 3.3 Research Philosophy 3.4 Research Strategy 3.5 Data Collection 3.6 Sampling 3.7 Data Analysis 3.8 Ethical concerns 3.9 Reliability and Validity 3.10 Limitations Chapter Four: Findings and Discussion 4.1 Chapter Overview 4.2 Findings from Web

Economic Integration within the EU Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Economic Integration within the EU - Essay Example (Arestis, P. et al 1999) DG ECFIN economists are playing vital role in the ongoing forward-looking review of the European Union single market that the European Commission is chalking out. The barriers still exist in the internal market of the Union. Which indicates that many benefits have yet to be realised The potential of the single market is to be contributed to a more dynamic, innovative and competitive EU From the economic perspective of the single market review, DG ECFIN analysts advised that it is time to move towards a more economics-based and results-oriented approach using the targeted monitoring of selected markets and sectors. It would bring real improvements to the operations of the single market. The objective is to realize the four freedoms enshrined in the treaty. . At present, this vision is a successful reality in many spheres. The individuals can live, work, study or retire in any EU country. The Consumers would have an extensive choice of products and services at lower prices. The businesses would have lower costs and more opportunities to flourish in a Europe of close to 500 million customers without internal boundaries. The expected gains for the EU economy from the single market inducts an extra 2.2% on GDP and more than 2.75 million jobs created between 1992 and 2006. The The single market may be deemed as a natural coefficient of economic and monetary union (EMU). The euro is not only substitutes the single market by removing the costs and inconveniences of multiple currencies, but it is also the concrete expression of the willingness of the euro-area Member States to work together within EMU. This is a strong, united and sustainable EU economy that can defend Europe's citizens against global catastrophe and turbulence. Many policies for a single market Using a constitutional political economy approach, this paper attempts to demonstrate that both the "principle of integrity" and the "principle of efficiency" of collective action appear to be violated by the European economic constitution. This occurs, respectively, because its provisions are not neutral, nor revisable, and because they do not sufficiently allow for the possibility of cooperative collective decision (leading to convergence in welfare) in a more than ever numerous and heterogeneous EU. Essential argument in this respect regards the implications of the structurally different economic performances and incentives of small and large countries under the European economic constitution. (Laurent, E., and Cacheux, J. L. (2005), From the very beginning, the single market mechanism was more important than an economic policy decision. The ongoing crucial negotiations on an EU patent to defend European innovations; and a common trade policy. It would gives flawless access to the single market for our global trade partners while promoting EU exports and our social and environmental standards globally. It was expected to launch a more dynamic, innovative and competitive EU economy. This has not materialized: economic growth in the EU, determined by GDP per capita, has been below that of the US over the last ten years. Fabienne Ilzkovitz, one of the report's authors, who clarifies the economic

Rail Transportation system analysis report Case Study

Rail Transportation system analysis report - Case Study Example These elements are framed and designed by the extreme effort of civil and mechanical engineering to build the system for electrical equipment and efficiency of the rail network. Rail Transport System plays a major role in the transportation system in railways. The system assists in developing an important link in the transportation chain for connecting communities and states. It ensures in delivering transportation services with consistency in quality and time. The infrastructure of the system comprises different elements that include wagons, rail tracks, engines, sheds and stations. The system is classed as an Engineering system, as the whole system is based on different structural and architectural designs. Different types of wagons, rail tracks, engines and stations are essential to deliver rail transport services are used in the Australian based system. The system is developed on complex structural design and technology, which requires support of civil, mechanical and electrical engineering. Civil and mechanical engineering works assisted in building the framework of graphical and solid design of rail equipment and vehicles. Similarly, electrical engine ering structures the electronic equipment and materials needed in various rail engines and rail stations (Australian Government, 2013). Australian Rail Transport System is incorporated and supported with excellent performance of various elements that include tracks, trains, stations, power, consumer, government and technology. Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) is the largest owner in rail network, which operates and manages standard gauge track in an area of more than 8,500 kilometres in South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland and New South Wales. The system with the assistance of the ARTC is able to perform core business works such as access

Response to Law and Authority Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Response to Law and Authority - Essay Example The question of an obligation to obey the law often crops up especially in the current world where some laws within a legal system are deemed to be unjust or evil and we find ourselves within such systems. All legal systems have laws that impose obligations for their obedience but each has different criteria for measuring such kind of obedience to the law. Obedience is the act of following orders without questioning as it is deemed that they come from a legitimate authority, which may be conferred upon a person or entity by the society. Therefore, just as it is expected that all persons will be obedient to the law, the society expects that we obey the orders or the rules that are set by the legitimate authorities. Plato’s â€Å"Crito† examines how a person should respond to the law when he feels that the process has wrongly convicted him and suggests the ethical bases for obedience to the law. The ethical obligations to obey the law include the fact that, the citizen may have acquiesced to the existence of such a law and therefore, there is an implied or express accord to comply with the provisions of the said law, or if there is no implied agreement, his actions estop him from disobeying that law (Plato and Jowett, 1990). If there is no action or assent by the citizen, he is simply a beneficiary conferred to him by other citizens and therefore has an obligation to obey the law. Socrates argued that if the state was indeed protecting its young ones, then it was right for him to be declared guilty of corrupting the minds of the youth and should be punished according to the law. This is despite his personal convictions, questionings to the members of the city and examining of logi c to arrive at the true position. Reflection on the thoughts in Crito, there is a clear understanding of the teachings of Plato in that as a matter of justice and rights, laws cannot in