Counter Terrorism Strategies in India

Counter Terrorism Strategies in India Freedom at the Helm: Strategic Framework for a Secure India Rebecca Sayres Abstract The three-day attack on Mumbai sought to undermine the liberty of India. Indians now stand more united than ever in protecting our way of life. In an effort to strengthen methods currently used to combat terrorists, a counterterrorism strategy has been implemented. The Strategy calls for additional anti-terrorism methods, organizational changes, as well as partnerships between the central and state governments. Citizens need to be vigilant and willing to work with their local government. India however cannot go this alone. The international community must act as partners to hinder recurring acts of violence by Pakistan-based extremists. Cumulatively, measures outlined in this Strategy make for a stronger India. Implementing a Strategy The objective of implementing a national counterterrorism strategy is to protect India, Indian citizens and Indian interests abroad as well as at home. The Strategy will serve as a blueprint of guiding principles, priorities, and direction for law enforcement, as well as government agencies. Those who were avidly against The Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) should be reassured that measures outlined in the Strategy will not encroach on the fundamental rights of Indian citizens. The government seeks to work with its citizens in promoting awareness of the evolving challenges of modern day terrorism. Together we can work to abolish those radical individuals who seek to harm our way of life. Pakistan-Based Islamic Extremist Groups Pakistan-based extremist groups pose the greatest threat to India’s national security. Specifically, groups Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) can be linked to numerous recurring acts of violence against India. In a coordinated effort in 2001, the groups launched an attack on the Indian Parliament House in New Delhi. The well-orchestrated Mumbai attacks in 2008 were also LeT linked (Rath, p.63-69). Violent jihadi terrorism strategically aims to damage India economically and stir up religious hatred between Hindus and Muslims. Due to this overwhelming threat, India will base its Strategy around countering the threat of Pakistan-based extremist groups through improved organizational structures within government agencies, and partnerships throughout the international community. Countering Threats Thwarting terroristic activities is complex; it requires diligent information gathering on individuals, objectives, capabilities, and planning. Domestically, counterterrorism encompasses many state and federal agencies. In regards to intelligence gathering, the Indian military, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), as well as the Intelligence Bureau (IB) lead operations and analysis for detecting terrorist related activities under the central government (Gordon, p. 117-118). Police forces operate under the jurisdiction of state and Union territories to enforce laws, conduct criminal investigations, and respond to local threats (Gordon, p. 117-118). As counterterrorism measures enhance, interagency collaboration will be amplified in a sustainable fashion across all jurisdictions. Intelligence agencies have been successful in identifying potential terrorist attacks (Mahadevan, p.98). What we learned from the attack on Mumbai is agencies need to be able to act swiftly in a jointly coordinated effort to deny terrorists the means of carrying out their activities (Staniland, p.1). For that reason, an independent fusion center has been established to analyze and integrate intelligence relevant to national security collected by the military, CBI, RAW, and IB. Pertinent information will then be disseminated to those who need it at local levels. Agencies also have to be operationally sound. Police forces need capabilities to follow up on intelligence warnings. This requires proper manpower, weaponry, training, communications, and transportation facilities. These tools permit police forces to take preemptive measures while shortening response times (Staniland, p.1). In order to accommodate these needs, agencies will be appropriated additional funding to acquire the necessary assets for safeguarding national security. Inclusive of this funding is the Border Security Force (BSF), responsible for guarding India’s land borders (Matthews, 2011). Volatile areas like Jammu and Kashmir require additional security protocols to prevent terrorists from slipping through Indian entry points. Battlefield surveillance radars, long-range reconnaissance and observations systems will be added to the agencies arsenal (Matthews, 2011). Terrorists, smugglers, and pirates regularly threatened Indian coastline and regional waters (Matthews, 2011); therefore more emphasis will be placed on securing this area and reducing vulnerabilities. Protection of our seas is a priority; BSF will be provided additional vessels and surveillance mechanisms required for the coastline. Domestic Policy In the past, Indian officials have faced challenges reaching political consensus in countering terror. For the greater good of India, political leadership will place partisan matters aside in a joint effort to formulate timely policies to counter terrorism. In 2004, the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) was repealed (Prevention of Terrorism Repeal Act, 2004). To indemnify, the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) was amended to further include crimes associated with terrorism (The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Ordinance, 2004). In an effort to improve on legislation that was perceived as infringing on Indian liberties, national security was exposed to vulnerabilities. India now operates under new legislation that is aggressive on susceptibilities while safeguarding against misuse. Under UAPA confessions made before a police officer were not admissible as evidence (Toughing the Law, 2009). Now, committees have been put into place to asses each case individually and the admissibility of the confession in court. This ensures confessions are made within the parameters of Indian law, while allowing the government to utilize key evidence in cases relevant to terrorism. Additionally and similar to POTA (Toughing the Law, 2009), new law has established special courts for terror related cases. Cases involving terrorist activities, including fund raising and recruitment will be fast-tracked. Failing to expedite these cases constitutes a threat to the security and stability of the state. Extraordinary circumstances require extraordinary measures. There is a distinct difference between ordinary crime and terrorism. UAPA does not differentiate standards for bail between the common criminal and terrorists (Singh, p. 402). Therefore, bail provisions specific to activities related to terrorism have been passed into law. Bail is now set in a way which is proportional to the charges. The onus lies with the judge not to grant this privilege unless there is confidence that the accused is not guilty of terrorist related offenses. Toughening these laws ensure terrorists do not walk away free after being caught in the act. They will not however, deter an individual from committing atrocities. Terrorism has to be dealt with in the context of its growing threat to India. This starts with better governance. Elected officials at all levels must share the same objectives on terrorism. Partnerships between the central government, states, as well as Union territories are essential (Athana, p.15-16). Likewise, a partnership between the government and its people is imperative. This requires mutual trust and respect. Citizens cannot hesitate on reporting suspected terrorist activities to appropriate officials or law enforcement. Through these partnerships, we stand united in fighting violent extremist. International Cooperation India has one of the world’s highest levels of terrorist violence. In 2012, the Global Terrorism Index ranked India 4th among countries most affected by terrorism (Global Terror Index, 2012). Numerous attacks can be directly attributed to Pakistan-based extremists. The international community is well aware of the forces surrounding the tumultuous relationship between Pakistan and India. UN resolution 39 established the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan (UNCIP) attempting to mediate on-going conflicts (General Assembly, 1948). As the UN has condoned Pakistan to continue to blatantly support and harbor terrorist activities, the resolution has lost relevance. Terrorism is not isolated to India, it is a global quandary. The international community is more interdependent than ever in countering these types of threats. The UN, along with allied nations must place additional pressure on Pakistan to further oblige its commitment on fighting terrorism. Rapprochement is unfeasible without the support of the international community. Pakistan must send the message that it will not export transnational terrorism by refusing to act aggressively against those who seek to commit heinous crimes against India. Furthermore, Pakistan must cooperate with the Indian government in extraditing those associated with crimes carried out on Indian soil. Bilateral peace discussions cannot resume until this occurs. The United States and India have held an amiable relationship. Following the 9/11 attack, India offered the U.S. unlimited support including the use of specific air bases (Fair, p. 76-77). Further, we have collaborated on counterterrorism endeavors. The Federal Bureau of Investigation worked diligently with Indian security services after Mumbai (Staniland, p. 3). India recognizes that the United States is deeply engaged with Pakistan in regards to aid and operations surrounding Afghanistan (Asthana, p.17). This empowers the U.S. to impose unrelenting pressure on Pakistan regarding transnational terrorism (Asthana, p.17). Additionally, the U.S. should continue assistance to Indian security forces. India could greatly benefit from increased anti-terrorism courses for police and domestic intelligence forces. Conclusion The 11/26 attack on Mumbai reaffirmed that transnational violence carried out by Pakistani extremist groups remains a leading threat to India’s national security. In addition, numerous terrorist attacks in recent years have been linked to the on-going conflicts in Jammu and Kashmir (Gordon, p.111). India is not immune from the dangers that both domestic and foreign terrorists pose. It is foreseeable that terrorists will continue to target Indian interests globally. The Strategy outlined will serve as a guide to counter those threats. As a society, we must continue to live our lives without forfeiting the liberties radical extremists seek to demolish. Terrorism cannot intimidate or bend the will of the people. Citations Asthana, Vandana. (2010, June 1). Cross-border terrorism in India: Counterterrorism strategies and challenges. Department of Government and International Affairs East Washington University, 1 June 2010. Retrieved from https://ideals.illinois.edu/bitstream/handle/2142/27703/CrossBorderTerrorisminIndiaCounterterrorismStrategiesandChallenges.pdf?sequence=2 Fair,C.C. (2004). The counterterror coalitions: Cooperation with Pakistan and India. Retrieved from Rand website: http://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/monographs/2004/RAND_MG141.pdf General Assembly resolution 39, The rule of law at the national and international levels, S/654 (20 January 1948), Retrived from http://www.un.org/en/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=s/res/39(1948) Global Terrorism Index: Capturing the Impact of Terrorism for the Past decade. (2012). Retrieved from Institute For Economics and Peace website: http://www.visionofhumanity.org/sites/default/files/2012_Global_Terrorism_Index_Report.pdf Gordon, S. (2008). Policing terrorism in India. Crime, Law Social Change, 50(1/2), 111-124. Mahadevan, P. (2012). The politics of counterterrorism in India: Strategic intelligence and national security in South Asia. London: I.B. Tauris. Mathews, N. (2011). Guarding Access. Defense Technology International, 5(1), 32. Parliament of India. (2004). PREVENTION OF TERRORISM (REPEAL) ACT 2004 (14). Retrieved from https://www.unodc.org/tldb/showDocument.do?documentUid=6920node=docscmd=addcountry=IND Parliament of India. (2004). The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Ordinance, 2004. Retrieved from http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/document/actandordinances/the_unlawful_activities__amendord2004.htm Rath, S. (2013). South Asia’s future security: The danger of terrorism from Pakistan. Social Research Reports, 2563-89. Singh,U.K. (2007). The state, democracy and anti-terror laws in India. New Delhi: Sage Publications. Toughing the Law. (2009, January 9). India Today Bureau. Retrieved from http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/Toughening+the+law/1/24801.html

A Synopsis Of Tb Health And Social Care Essay

A Synopsis Of Tb Health And Social Care Essay Abstract TB or Tuberculosis being a bacterial disease is highly infectious but it has its cures and measures. The disease is a major point of concern in South Africa, especially in the areas of Western Cape. It is so common among them that one out of ten people develop this disease and if not treated in a timely and effective manner the infected person can affect 20 other people or more in a year. According to the World Health Organizations (WHOs) Global TB Report 2009, South Africa ranks fifth among the 22 high-burden tuberculosis (TB) countries. South Africa had almost 460,000 new TB cases in 2007, with a frequency rate of a projected 948 cases per 100,000 population a major raise from 338 cases per 100,000 population in 1998. (Source, (World Health Organization Statistics, 2009). A Synopsis of TB Tuberculosis being a bacterial disease is caused by micro-organism, a bacilli scientifically, Mycobacterium tuberculosis which enters the body by inhaling through the lungs. From where they can spread to other parts of the body through the blood, lymphatic system via airways or by direct transfer to other body organs. It develops in the body in two stages: Tuberculosis infection in which an individual breathes in the TB bacilli and becomes infected but the infection is contained by the immune system. The other stage is when the infected individual develops the disease himself. Out of those people who do become infected, most will never develop the disease unless their immune system is seriously damaged for instance by stress, HIV, cancer, diabetes or malnutrition. The bacteria remains dormant within the body if the patient is BCG injected. BCG immunization at the time of birth provides up to 80% protection against the progression TB infection to take form of a disease. A basic sign of TB is consistent cough of two weeks, so the earlier the patient goes to the clinic to get a check up, the more curable it is. Other severe signs are bleeding in cough, night sweating, weight-loss and short-breathing. TB in South Africa Africa and southern Africa In their 1997 reports on the tuberculosis epidemic and on anti-tuberculosis drug resistance in the world, the WHO paints a bleak picture of the global failure of health service providers to deal with the burden of tuberculosis. In the 216 reporting member countries of the WHO, representing a total population of 5,72 billion, there were an estimated 7,4 million new cases of tuberculosis in 1995. This represents a rate of 130 cases among every 100 000 persons. In Africa the case rate is 216 per 100 000. The 11 countries of the Southern Africa subregion contribute approximately 275 000 cases every year to the total case load in Africa. Almost half of these come from South Africa. In an analysis of tuberculosis trends and the impact of HIV infection on the situation in the subregion, it is estimated that by 2001 the smear positive case rate would have increased from 198 per 100 000 population for the region as a whole, to 681 per 100 000 if tuberculosis control efforts are not optimised. To aggravate the situation, 69% of these cases would be directly attributable to HIV infection.1 A serious complication of the tuberculosis problem in Southern Africa has been the emergence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) strains of the organism causing the disease. Patients infected with MDR require prolonged chemotherapy with very expensive medication which will at best cure only half of them. Such treatments cost at least 100 times as much as the cost of curing an ordinary tuberculosis patient infected with drug-sensitive bacteria. Very few countries can afford this additional burden. In order to determine the magnitude of the MDR problem in Southern Africa, and the implication for National Tuberculosis Programmes (NTPs), surveys are being conducted in various countries as part of the activities of the WHO/IUATLD Global Working Group on Tuberculosis Drug Resistance Surveillance. So far, information is available for four countries in southern Africa: Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa, and Swaziland. Results confirmed that initial resistance to first-line drugs is relatively low in southern Africa compared to some other regions in Africa and Asia where the problem is up to 5 times more common. Resistance rates range between 4% and 12% for isoniazid, and between 4% and 7% for streptomycin. For rifampicin it is 1% and for ethambutol 1%; MDR is fortunately still low at 1%, indicating that resistance strains are not commonly transmitted from person to person. On the other hand, rates for acquired resistance, that is resistance which has arisen in patients previously inadequately treated for tuberculosis, are at least three times higher than in patients not previously exposed to anti-TB medications. The high rates of acquired resistance point to a failure of control programmes to effectively manage case-holding and treatment adherence. TB Treatment The full course treatment time can stretch up to eight months with consistency as a major factor. People who stop treatment develop a multi-drug resistance which makes the disease more complicated. TB can prove fatal if not treated. The treatment is in two phases: The intensive phase consists of taking four different drugs for five days a week, for two to three months. The continuation phase consists of taking two drugs for five days a week for four to five months. Sputum tests are regularly taken every two months for keeping a check on the progress. DOTS The Department of Health in South Africa has implemented the World Health Organizations DOTS (directly observed treatment short course) technique to make sure patients adhere to treatment. DOTS have been implemented in a good number of clinics in the Western Cape. An essential element of the strategy is the support and back-up offered to TB patients for the entire six to eight-month treatment phase, where they are directly observed taking their medication at the clinic. The DOTS strategy is embedded in the following principles. Government Commitment The support of the national and provincial Heads of the Department of Health has significantly helped South Africa to implement the DOTS strategy. This support is essential because DOTS requires significant changes of approach and tends to challenge old practices. Although the strategy offers the least expensive way of tackling TB, often it requires substantial redirection of funds and this cannot happen without the political commitment and support of key decision makers. Directly Observed Treatment Short-course as a global initiative, is a breakthrough that is increasingly providing solutions to the control of the TB epidemic in South Africa. However, it is a new strategy and as such may seem at first complicated and confusing. This merely shows the need to effectively and adequately reorientate our resources and train health staff and treatment supporters to this strategy. This means that each one of us from all sectors has a major role to play. TB is everywhere and as such effective TB control should be practised everywhere. Good TB control is part of good district development. 2.2 Identifying Infectious Patients TB is a bacterial disease and bacterial tools should be used to manage it. The TB Control programme is moving away from chest x-rays as a primary method of diagnosis. A crucial element of DOTS is to use microscopes to ensure that infectious TB is reliably and cost -effectively diagnosed. The first priority and the key issue in the new programme is to cure infectious patients at the very first attempt to slow down the epidemic. The over use of x -rays is discouraged as the primary means to confirm the diagnosis of TB because it does not tell whether a patient is infectious, and it is difficult to distinguish between active TB and other lung diseases or scarring. This leads to over diagnosis so that health workers could be treating many patients that do not have active TB and are not sick with TB. More importantly, the TB epidemic in South Africa is approaching uncontrollable levels and energies should be concentrated on curing infectious TB patients to stop the spread of this disease. Only bacteriology identifies infectious patients. 2.3 Direct Observation of Treatment The implementation of DOTS ensures that every TB patient should have the support of another person to ensure that they swallow their medication daily. The treatment supporter does not have to be a professional health worker, but can be any responsible member of the community. Employers, colleagues and community members can act as treatment supporters. Using family members is often problematic but has been successful in exceptional cases. This person should know the signs and symptoms of TB, side effects of TB drugs and the importance of taking TB medication regularly for the patient. They should also motivate and empower patients and their families and provide them with a better understanding of TB and the importance of cure. Treatment supporters are best recruited as part of a community based system which is reviewed annually and its results documented. Treatment supporters should work closely with local health authorities. Because of the length of time, the patient has to take treatment, completing TB treatment is a special challenge and requires an unyielding sense of commitment. This may be easy to sustain while the patient feels sick. However, after a few weeks of taking treatment, patients often feel better and see no reason for continuing their treatment. It is thus essential for health workers or treatment supporters to be supportive and use the initial period to bond with the patient. This will enable them to build a strong relationship in which the patient believes and trusts advice given by the treatment supporter. 2.4 Standardized Drug Combinations A daily dose of a powerful combination of medications is administered to TB patients for five days a week. Combination tablets simplify treatment and ensure that drugs are not given separately and therefore decrease the risk of drug resistance. 2.5 Reliable Reporting System A reliable recording and reporting system is necessary in order to monitor progress. Sputum results should also be recorded to document smear conversion. This gives an accurate measurement of performance and one can identify areas which need support. The First Step to Filling the Country with DOTS: Setting up Demonstration and Training Districts (DTDs) in 1997 was one of the first crucial steps in the implementation of the DOTS strategy. In South Africa at least one Demonstration and Training area was identified in each province where all the elements of DOTS would be adopted in the management of TB services. Initially these areas would receive the necessary resources and support to ensure that they function well. When these districts demonstrate success in implementing DOTS they can be used as examples and training points to expand DOTS provincially and country-wide. Major Barriers Everyday TB kills nearly 5000 people, which is one person every 20 seconds. (WHO, Global TB Report, 2009). There is a presence of numerous barriers while accessing TB care especially in the poor communities: Economic Barriers Delay in seeking health care occurs due to lack of money for transport plus the time lost working. Socio-cultural Barriers Lack of awareness and stigma about TB. Geographical Barriers Long distances from health care facilities and TB diagnosis and treatment centers. Health System Barriers Delays in diagnosis as a result of knowledge lapse among health care workers. The ever existing barriers to the success of the targets involve overlooking of TB control by government, lack of monetary and human resources to provide regulation and quality control, weak and stigma health systems, poorly managed TB control health centers, poverty in majority of communities, population escalation and a significant boost in drug-resistant TB (particularly MDR-TB) and the recent, extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB). Lack of new diagnostic tools has impeded progress in TB control programs. Perhaps the greatest challenge to achieving the TB targets, however, has been the ever-growing HIV outbreak and the resultant increase in HIV-associated TB. A regional emergency was once declared in the large parts of this region due to unrestrained epidemic of HIV-associated TB.  The start of such an epidemic as the TB/HIV one has seriously compromised even historically firm national TB programs working globally. TB programs are weighed down by this increasing volume of HIV-associated TB cases and by the necessity to manage cases and ensure treatment completion. in addition, TB is the leading source of death among HIV-infected persons, and HIV is the strongest forecast of progression from dormant TB infection to active disease. Thus, TB programs that were almost up to the mark by WHA-set global TB targets have seen their treatment and completion rates plummet. The TB/HIV combination has also had a remarkable impact on human resources.  In a labor force that has remained the same or shrinked, the increased overall number of TB patients has damaged TB programs infrastructure and amplified poor TB results such as treatment default, death and the emergence of XDR-TB. The HIV-associated TB epidemic has led to an escalating rate of smear-negative and extra pulmonary TB;  these forms of TB do not add to the case-detection targets and are more difficult to identify. Moreover, smear-negative TB has a worse prediction than smear-positive TB amongst those who are also HIV-infected. TB and HIV The HIV outbreak has led to a massive increase in the number of fatal TB cases. TB is not accountable for a third of all deaths in HIV infected people. People with HIV are far more vulnerable to TB infection, and are not as much able to fight it off. Recent studies by Wood, (2007) in a region with an approximate HIV prevalence of about 20% in Cape Town, calculated that the pulmonary TB-warning rate among HIV-infected persons in that area amounted to 5,140 cases per 100,000; and that the rate amongst HIV-uninfected individuals in the same area was 953 cases per 100,000. Using these statistics, the determinable fraction for TB among HIV-infected individuals in that area aggregated to 82 percent. Conclusion Recommendations The overall purpose of the project is to identify risk factors and make appropriate recommendations based both on the available evidence and the studies that stem from this project. As such, recommendations are structured in terms of the conceptual framework of this document. Nevertheless, the existing evidence from current data and literature reviews allows us to pinpoint areas where interventions are clearly required. On these grounds, we can make certain recommendations. Introduce epidemiologically-led behavioural interventions Reference has been made to the heterogeneity in HIV prevalence in the province (Shaikh et al, 2006). This unevenness is also apparent in the provincial TB profile. It is therefore important to identify the geographical focal points for interventions according to this disease distribution that has been identified by routine surveillance. Populations at high risk for infection may be identified according to geographical area, as well as according to other demographic factors such as age, sex and socio-economic status. By raising awareness in populations at high risk and targeting specific high risk behaviors, interventions will be more effective in lowering the incidence of new infections. Target hotspots first Once populations at risk have been identified, geographically discrete regions should be selected for resource allocation and focused interventions. An implementation of interventions based on the known and expected burden of disease will prioritise the roll out of a prevention strategy. Prevention efforts that address HIV infection should identify areas and populations where there are certain risk factors and areas of high HIV prevalence must apply concentrated intervention of TB programmes. Identify and manage at-risk groups earlier Behavioural and communication strategies for highest risk groups must be pro-active in their efforts, and target the false sense of security that exists regarding the risk of HIV infection. At-risk populations should include vulnerable groups such as women, and also specific groups such as prisoners, commercial sex workers, mobile persons and labour migrants. Awareness of the risk of TB among HIV infected people must be raised both in communities and within the health service. Integrate prevention and treatment While evaluating the effectiveness of prevention programmes within an epidemiological context, the potential future impact of treatment of both HIV/AIDS and TB needs to be examined. Adapt relevant public services Goal-directed partnerships between social-cluster group departments should be actively pursued. Resource allocation must be rationalised within a broader spectrum than only the health services. The high burden of TB must be taken into account in this process, and be assigned equal importance as the efforts against the spread of HIV. In addition to intersectoral collaboration towards intervention for both these infectious diseases, more effort must be made to integrate the management of HIV/AIDS with TB. .

Abortion: The Wrong Choice Essay -- The Truth about Abortion

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Abortion? Is it the right or wrong thing to do? In this paper I will try to prove why I believe that it is wrong to have an abortion. Why have an abortion when you can have the baby and put it up for adoption after birth? When you have an abortion, you are committing manslaughter, murder. Some people may not think so, but they are. If the woman does not want to have a baby, then why did she take the risk by having sex? I believe that once you have found out that you are pregnant you should continue the process and see the pregnancy through to birth.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"The entire complex issue comes down to one question: Is the fetus a person?†(Gilbert,Intro-2). This question is the most important one to ask yourself before deciding whether or not to have an abortion. Some people ask doctors the same question, and their response would be to define â€Å"life†. After a discussion in 1981, the U.S. Senate decided that biological life starts at implantation. Many of the Pro-abortionists, however could not found one expert to prove that life starts at any other time than implantation. They were able to however to show an alternative viewpoint. It considers the continuum to run from sperm and egg, to single-cell zygote, to multi-cell blastocyst, to embryo, to fetus, to newborn, etc. This view is attractive because it supports the right of each mother and doctor to individually choose when in the continuum the fetus becomes a person(Gilbert,Med-2). This view though did not prove the ...

Use of Symbols and Symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthornes The Scarlet Lette

Use of Symbols in The Scarlet Letter      Ã‚  Ã‚   In many stories, symbols included by the author add deeper meaning.   Nathaniel Hawthorne is one author who mastered the skill of using symbols effectively.   The Scarlet Letter is regarded as a "symbolic masterpiece" due to Hawthorne's exceptional use of the scarlet letter, the setting, and Pearl as symbols.    One of the main symbols of the novel is the basis for the title of the novel itself.   Hester Prynne's scarlet letter is attached to her dress, and appears "in fine red cloth surrounded with an elaborate embroidery with fantastic flourishes of gold thread" (Hawthorne 60).   The letter is said to have "the effect of a spell, taking her out of the ordinary relations with humanity and enclosing her in a sphere by herself" (Hawthorne 61).   The letter seems to be the focal point of Hester's figure, and the townspeople obsess about the blazing red sign of her sin for a long time after Hester's ignominy.    Hester's fantastically embellished red letter takes on many meanings as a symbol.   The gold thread with which the letter is embroidered symbolizes Hester's mockery of the Puritan way of punishment. A female spectator in the market place remarks, "Why, gossips, what is it but to laugh in the faces of our godly magistrates, and make a pride out of what they ... meant for a punishment?" (Hawthorne 61).   The embellishment of the letter physically displays Hester's reaction to her punishment.   Her strong will not only accepts the challenge that the Puritan church has laid before her, but she also laughs in mockery at it. The scarlet letter also shows the triviality of the community's system of punishment.   Whenever Hester walks outside of her cottag... ...efers to her being a blessing to Hester.   Pearl gives Hester a reason to live, and helps to keep Hester's spirits strong.  Ã‚      Hawthorne's use of symbols clearly enhances The Scarlet Letter.   From the setting to the characters themselves, the novel is filled with symbols that work together to provide a deeper, allegorical meaning.   The symbolism contained in Hawthorne's works provokes much thought in the reader, through which the reader can enjoy the story much more.   For this reason, The Scarlet Letter can accurately be described as a "symbolic masterpiece."    Works Cited Hawthorne, Nathaniel.   The Scarlet Letter.   New York: Penguin Putnam Inc., 1980.    Bradford, William.   "The Errand of the Early Puritans."   Class handout.   March 2002.    Winthrop, John.   "Life in Puritan New England."   Class handout.   March 2002.   

Essay --

Good morning/afternoon everybody. Today, I am here to discuss the overall wealth of America, in hopes to better justify our economy. It is to my understanding that as of this moment, the United States and its economy stands fairly well, increasing total tax revenue by 13%, from $2,482.241 (two trillion four hundred eighty two billion) in 2012, to $2,806.386 in 2013. In addition, we were able to decrease our budget deficit by an additional 27%, with a final deficit standing at $811.851. Although our standings are settled at a decent position, there are ways we could execute even greater; and that is through the improvement of health and human services, the return of our nation’s military from the Middle East, education, alternative energy, and the regulation of taxes. One of the major focuses of our proposal is the improvement of health and human services. Prior to my election, there has been concern about this department due to the recent government shutdown. From October 1 through October 16, the United States entered this shutdown, and reduced most routine operations after Congress failed to enact funds for the fiscal year 2014. The principal factor to this shutdown was The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, otherwise known as Obamacare. What this law required was for all Americans to have health insurance—regardless if they truly need it or not—so the total costs towards Medicare and Medicaid spending would decrease. However, it is not worth disrupting government funding to undercut healthcare costs. Congress has one key duty in the Constitution, and that is to pass spending bills that fund the government. With no compromise, our government may experience another one of these disastrous events. To fix this predicament.. . ...ity that continues to be a problem is the amount of alcohol and cigarette users here in the states. The adverse health affects from alcohol consumption accounts for an estimate of 75,000 deaths, while cigarette smoking accounts for an estimate of 443,000 deaths each year in the United States. To promote a healthier lifestyle, in addition to internalizing the externality, we will be placing a $0.10 tax on alcohol and a $0.50 tax on cigarettes, in hopes to reduce demand and utilization. However, if alcohol and cigarette users continue to be unresponsive to the change in price, consumers would still continue to purchase these products, and it would eventually benefit the government in terms of raising money with minimum waste, for it would raise revenue with minimal distortion. In other words, as a result of this tax raise, we will be increasing revenue $5.323 billion.

Babysitting at It’s Finest

Babysitting at its finest There are many perks to babysitting three kids, a dog in a ridiculously large house. Now don’t get me wrong, I do it because I need the money, I’m a teenager, what do you expect? But like we’ve learnt before, life isn’t always about the money. So listen closely as I fill you in on other reasons as to why I really love babysitting, satirically of course. Now that we’ve established that I babysit to earn money, let me start off by telling you that one of the main reasons I love my job is because even though student wage is $9. 60, I get paid $10 an hour.I mean, I’m not complaining at all, especially since I don’t even do half the work a regular job requires. I put the kids in bed by eight o’clock, I read them a bedtime story, and then I just sit down, watch television and even go on the internet. For the next four or five hours I can really do whatever I want. Don’t get me wrong, I love spending ti me with the kids, but most of the time, children can really get annoying after the first hour or so. Second of all, since the kids are in bed really early, the parents are gone; why not explore and see what interesting things I can find in the house.I mean, haven’t you heard of that one saying, â€Å"what’s yours, is mine? † Well that definitely applies to me in this case, especially since I must keep myself occupied, I don’t want to fall asleep on the job! My favourite destination to visit would definitely have to be the kitchen. First stop, the fridge and cupboards. As I help myself to raiding the fridge, I usually get very excited, considering the food is usually delicious opposed to what I sometimes eat at home. But, who’s complaining? They have a washer and dryer, so while you’re there why use it? I mean it’s tough living in a house with five other individuals, take any occasion you get!Oh, and I cannot forget about the televisio n usage! All the PPV movies that are usually over $6 a piece, each are always the best. Lastly, most times when I babysit I would usually spend the night because their parents would be out way too late, and their parents wouldn’t be home until the morning later that afternoon. The kids would be asleep, and the parents are gone, so that gives me plenty of time to have what every teenager wants to attend, a party! I’m beyond grateful to babysit on weekends, because I get this opportunity. I’d usually bring out some snacks on the table, turn on a PPV movie, hire a DJ and then the night is young.I always make sure to bribe the children into staying in their room, just so they don’t see how many strangers are in. Usually a small â€Å"get together† is an absolute understatement. But, all is good because at the end of the night; the house is clean and the kids are safe. I’m a teenager, I like to take risks, and I will enjoy life to the fullest, ev ery second I get, even if that means I’m babysitting. Not only is it great money, (we had to learn the hard way, that money doesn’t grow on trees) but it’s something I really do enjoy spending my time doing. These are the perks of babysitting, satirically of course.

A Message to Garcia Essay

A Message to Garcia is an award winning essay written in 1899. It serves as an inspiration to some as well as a lesson. In the essay President McKinley needed to have a message delivered to Garcia in the jungles of Cuba, he trusted one man with this mission, Rowan. He gave Rowan clear instructions on what to do. He gave him no tips nor told him any way he could complete this mission, he simply trusted Rowan to get the job done with his skill alone. What I’ve taken from this is the leadership and trust that is put into action throughout a unit. The company commander passes down an order to the platoon commander who in turn passes it down to the platoon sergeant and then to the squad leaders and fire team leaders who are tasked with accomplishing the mission. The trust that was put in Rowan is the same trust that is tasked throughout squads and fire teams. We have to be able to use the resources that we have on hand and the skills we learn throughout our training to be able to accomplish whatever mission and task is set before us. It gives examples at the end of the essay of different types of people who could be tasked out for missions but get lost along their way and lose sight of what needs to be done. It talks about people who need to do work when the â€Å"boss† is away and does work as well when he is at home. The man who when given an order doesn’t question it, but obeys without hesitation and does his job proficiently and thoroughly. The leaders who step up when it is needed and when it is not to be able to build trust in one another and earn the respect of his peers. A Message to Garcia highlights a prime example of the leadership that is need in a battalion, company, platoon and squad sized element, as well as the society we live in. A Message to Garcia Essay Written by, Elbert Hubbard, is a story written about trying to find the ideal messenger, or employee. And in many cases is hard to find even when it comes to a simple task, in this case, delivering a message. Hubbard goes on to explain that some individuals, when tasked with such a job will make it rather difficult. They will either ask questions, â€Å"who is Garcia? Where is he? Why can’t you do it? Have someone else do it.† Hubbard points out the most common flaws or unwanted qualities of employers when all he, or any employer are looking for is someone who is hard working and can be trusted with an important task regardless of what it is. And that is the type of worker that no employer can afford to lose. No matter when you are, regardless or your occupation, type of company or size, there will always be the workers that are replaceable, irreplaceable, or those who no one will hire. Hubbard explains the vast majority or employees that are in the work force. Lazy, irresponsible, untrustworthy, or are just plain worthless. However, the search for that one who will work hard even when no one is looking is rare to find, and that when he is found, he cannot be let go. After reading this book, it makes one realize, and actually look at whom they work with now, or in the past and see whom or how many actually fall into the category or workers Hubbard described. I for one was able to actually put faces with some of the examples given. More important than that, was looking at where I fit in, or which one describes me the best. Hardworking and the one that is rare and every employer is looking for, sure we would all like to think that but the reality of it, may not be as close as we would like to think. When tasked with delivering a message to Garcia, I would think it be natural for one to ask, â€Å"where is he†, such information is key. Rather than blindly searching for a man named Garcia with out so much of a direction. Does a question make one any less of their overall work ethic? I would think not, but when it comes to questioning the motives and  what is in the letter is completely different. Irreverent questions to the task at hand are unnecessary and would be seen as lazy or nosy. Overall it was an interesting book that makes you think other wise of not only yourself, but also those you work with all well. I would recommend any employer to have their employees read this book for they start working. That way it gives them something to think about, think about themselves and which type of employee they truly want to be. Also gives them an idea of what that employer is looking for in their workers, that way there is no question about what is expected. â€Å"He is wanted in every city, town and village- in every office, shop and factory. The world cries out for such: he is needed, & needed badly- the man who can carry a message to Garcia.†