We Need A New Criminal Justice System - 844 Words

Do you know someone who has committed a crime? My friend John from high school was an average B student. He always came to class and always did his work. When it came to exam week he didn’t show up. I was worried, so I called his mom and asked what happened. She told me that John was in jail for marijuana possession. He was only in jail for a week before his mom could bail him out. While in jail, he missed his final exams and failed all his classes forcing him to take summer school to graduate. Today, the United States has twenty-five percent of the world prisoners. One in every thirty-one adults of the population is under some form of correctional control. The United States has more people in prison than anywhere else in the world. What is really sad about the United States is having prisons for profit instead of healing for the accused and preventing them from committing another crime. We need a new criminal justice system that focuses more on how we convict people, provide appropriate sentencing, and rehabilitate through healing instead of punishment. With the new criminal justice system, convictions will be easier to figure out who is innocent versus the guilty. Better training for officers who arrive on the scene will teach them how to react, what to assess, and how to distinguish what is what. During interrogations the police officer and the accused citizen will both have a camera behind them so there will be video evidence on how the police ask the citizenShow MoreRelatedThe Impact Of New Technology On Criminal Justice System1458 Words   |  6 PagesThe Impact of New Technologies on Criminal Justice and Corrections Our criminal justice system is very important to society. The reason for having laws is to defend society from harm, and to ensure that each person is kept safe, as well as to receive fair treatment. The criminal justice system works to defend the innocent and to punish the guilty without risking denial of an individual’s basic human rights. The past, present and future trends involved in the interface between components ofRead MoreCriminal Justice1385 Words   |  6 PagesCriminal Justice Trends Criminal justice Criminal Justice Trends Criminal justice field is growing every day. It grows with the help of technology and society. When the technology evolves and society grows the criminal justice has to evolve and grow to fit the society needs. Whether it is an easy or hard change the criminal justice system never fails us. With any state the criminal justice system is to protect and serve the community so the more it evolves the more the system has to. The followingRead MoreCriminal Justice Trends Essay1572 Words   |  7 PagesThe criminal justice system is a group of institutions that work together to protect a society, prevent and control crime, and maintain justice; enforcing the laws regulated by society. As the years have gone by and society has evolved; so have the criminal justice system and its methods to accomplish its role in society. This short analysis will evaluate the main facts that have been affecting the criminal justice system for decades and have influenced the evolution the justice system is enduringRead MoreWhy Do We as a Society Need a Criminal Justice System Essay1216 Words   |  5 PagesWhy do we (as a society) need a criminal justice system? Introduction As a society there is need for a criminal justice system, as it is essential to have laws throughout the population. We have these laws so people cannot use money or power to benefit themselves. The laws also establish that each person should understand their and everyone else’s rights and obligations within the community. The criminal justice system, is a system of laws and rulings which protect community membersRead MoreThe Concepts Of A New Criminal Justice System1695 Words   |  7 Pageswill examine the concepts of a new criminal justice. It will also discuss why the concept requires the involvement of the entire community and why it may be difficult to implement. There will also be information on programs that promote safe neighborhoods and why communities may like and dislike these different programs. A new criminal justice is a theory that has been talked about for plenty of years now. In many cases this theory is to improve the criminal justice system and make it better for notRead MoreOrganizational Behavior1387 Words   |  6 Pagesand report in the ever expanding study in criminal justice organizational behavior areas in the workforce. This discussion focuses on the forces of change and the approaches to managing organizational change in criminal justice agencies, including identifying observable aspects of organizational cultures (Robbins amp; Judge, 2013). What social, political, and organizational behavior can influence change in criminal justice agencies? The criminal justice field is an ever evolving field. As today’sRead MoreThe Worldwide Criminal Justice System1468 Words   |  6 Pagespaper, I will describe what worldwide criminal justice systems are doing to address the criminal issues I identified. I will talk about the terrorist group ISIS about the crimes they have committed. Then I will discuss how the worldwide criminal justice system handled the crime. The last thing I will discuss is the effectiveness of the systems response and include suggestions for future responses to combat or prevent these crimes. The Criminal justice system have begun to monitor the Arab communityRead More2.3 Conclusion:. The Aim Of Criminal Law Is To Protect1463 Words   |  6 Pages2.3 Conclusion: The aim of criminal law is to protect the rights of the individuals and to safeguard the weak against the strong, law abiding against lawless and peaceful against violent. The state has prescribed certain rules of conduct, sanctions for their violations and machinery to enforce sanctions and procedure to protect that machinery. If men were angels no government would be necessary. Read MoreThe And Justice For All1743 Words   |  7 Pages With liberty and justice for all. These are the 6 words that conclude the pledge of allegiance of our United States. This is what our nation was built upon: liberty and justice. Justice is the just behavior (insert dictionary source here) or treatment that one may receive or give. To be just is to be fair and righteous and this righteousness is the quality of being morally right (insert dictionary source here). For someone to be shot in cold blood and the killer not have any consequenceRead MoreThe Media And The Criminal Justice System1550 Words   |  7 Pages As far as time itself people have always committed crimes. We can find the first crime in the bible itself when Cain killed his brother Able. However what we did not have back then was the media coverage of the story. The media has been able to influence the criminal justice system by expressing strong opinions about different cases. In some of those cases, the media has picked a side. Generally, people tend to pick sides depending on whom they believe, there is always two sides to every story.

Heroes Are Not A Hero - 992 Words

Heroes are not just fictional characters with superhuman powers. Most people think that the only heroes are people that have superpowers and a cool outfit. In fact, whenever anyone pictures a hero, they don’t normally picture an unattractive person saving people. Instead, they picture a buff, handsome hero saving everyone and having adoring fans. However, this belief is incorrect because heroes are not just superhumans. Heroes take on challenges with determination and are ordinary people putting the needs of others before their own needs, even if they are not defending the popular belief. Heroes take on challenges with determination. They don’t just give up at the first sign of difficulty or hardship. Instead, they push ahead no matter what. â€Å"The rehabilitation was rigorous, and I pushed it†¦ There were many guys who had given up on life.† (Soldier Home After Losing His Leg in Afghanistan by Gale Fiege). The man in this quote had lost his leg while serving his country. As stated in the quote, many people with his condition gave up on life because it seemed too challenging to ever become better and overcome the injury. However, heroes take challenges in stride and do their best to overcome them, just as this man did his best to overcome his lost leg. Another example would be Abraham Lincoln, who died after pushing through the difficulties and hardships of war to piece the union back together. He didn’t stop because he believed the cause to be worth fighting for and overcoming,Show MoreRelatedThe Heroes Of A Hero1021 Words   |  5 Pages The Heroes of Fearless A hero can be many different types of people and have many different qualities. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a hero as a person admired for achievements and noble qualities. Tom Hanks said â€Å"A hero is somebody who voluntarily walks into the unknown†. Heroes are strong and courageous, but they can also be quite and work behind the scenes. Eleanor Roosevelt once said â€Å"We do not have to become heroes overnight. Just a step at a time, meeting each thing that comes upRead MoreThe Heroes Of A Hero1082 Words   |  5 PagesChristopher Reeve once said, â€Å"A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.† In today’s society, what describes a hero is different to each person you ask. In my opinion, there are three different heroes today. There are the heroes you read about in books and watch in movies such as The Avengers and X-Men, and there are the everyday heroes such as doctors, police, and soldiers. There are also tragic heroes. Shakespeare is famous forRead MoreThe Heroes Of A Hero1254 Words   |  6 Pagesup in the morning and decide to become a hero; but perhaps it is possible to wake up and say to yourself that you will become a terrorist or a criminal. Heroes are made of circumstances beyond their control. Those people who rush in to help victims after a fiery car crash or after something like the Boston bombings truly are heroes. Heroics that are played out after an act of violence are actions that do not allow for planning (Eagly, 2013). These heroes are usually humble and underplay their roleRead MoreThe Heroes Of A Hero2033 Words   |  9 PagesTo have a set of skills and qualities to become hero, bravery is genuinely one of the biggest traits one must have to be a hero. Heroic tales usually contains violence in the story. In most heroic novels, books, and poems that feature a main character with a hero’s complex, the source of their power is derived from their heroism undermines their ability to reason. In the books examined there is always a hero or heroine that is tasked with self-discovery, destroying evil, seeking vengeance on evilRead MoreHeroes As A Hero Essay1563 Words   |  7 Pages In many occurrences, heroes are described as big, bold, and brightly dressed people who are a normal person by day and a hero by night. However, in reality heroes are around us in our everyday lives, but we fail to see the consummations of them. From the veteran you don’t notice in the grocery store, to the moms and dads all around us who are involved in the upbringing of the current generation of kids. A hero is one who stood above all to achieve the greater good for all of mankind, and developedRead MoreHero : A Virtuous Heroes883 Words   |  4 Pagesplaywright, once said, â€Å"Heroes in drama are people who try hard to reach a virtuous ideal. And whether they succeed or fail really doesn’t matter - i t’s the trying that counts.† Sorkin states that heroes are those that attempt to reach their goal, not necessarily those that succeed. Heroes will proceed to try, no matter who or what is preventing them from reaching a goal. Sorkin is also discussing people attempting to reach a â€Å"virtuous ideal†, which is often obtained for others. A hero is one who solvesRead MoreEpic Heroes : The Ideal Hero873 Words   |  4 Pageshistory, epic heroes have defined the ideal characteristics of a society. Beowulf and Aenus are perfect examples of the ideal hero created from the mind of a creator, for the purpose of defining a society. Most epic heroes share certain character traits such as bravery, courage, determination, hubris or intelligence. It has been noted that sometimes epic heroes appear to simply be lucky or helped along by the gods and rely less on their own abilities. However, there are some heroes who are helpedRead MoreBeowulf Is The Hero Of All Heroes958 Wor ds   |  4 Pages I m writing about ancient heroes and whether or not they can be heroes at the present day time.im going to tell you about their pros as in good things about them and their cons as in bad things. I will also choose one modern day hero to come pare my ancient hero to and tell you where he from either a movie or a comic book. Beowulf is my ancient hero. I chose Beowulf because of all the qualities he has. Beowulf is the hero of all heroes’ he is strong, and courageous. He would risk hisRead MoreHomeric Heroes : The Heroic Hero1249 Words   |  5 Pagestemperance, battle is the most important aspect of Homeric Heroes. It is on a battlefield that heroes gain glory for fighting, prizes for their accomplishments, and honor for their actions. However, hero he may be, Achilles â€Å"was not to be seen in council, that arena for glory, nor in battle† (Book 1, 518-519). He was â€Å"throwing his heroism away† by not taking part in the event that made people heroes. Prior to this, Achilles was a well-recognized hero. Goddesses said â€Å"when godlike Achilles used to enterRead MoreThe Tragic Heroes Of A Tragic Hero1955 Words   |  8 Pagesreason for this is because almost all of the spectators can relate to the protagonist due to the fact that the protagonists of these tragedies are tragic heroes. These tragic heroes have qualities that render them both tragic and heroic, and they display five key characteristics according to Aristotle’s definition. The criteria of a tragic hero is that they must suffer throughout the play, have a tragic flaw, eventually recognize their tragic flaw and take responsibility for their actions, be neither

Pakistan Cement Industry Free Essays

Compiled by: Mirza Rohail B http://economicpakistan. wordpress. com/2008/02/12/cement-industry/ History Introduction Growth of cement industry is rightly considered a barometer for economic activity. We will write a custom essay sample on Pakistan Cement Industry or any similar topic only for you Order Now In 1947, Pakistan had inherited 4 cement plants with a total capacity of 0. 5 million tons. Some expansion took place in 1956-66 but could not keep pace with the economic development and the country had to resort to imports of cement in 1976-77 and continued to do so till 1994-95. The industry was privatized in 1990 which led to setting up of new plants. Although an oligopoly market, there exists fierce competition between members of the cartel today. The industry comprises of 29 firms (19 units in the north and 10 units in the south), with the installed production capacity of 44. 09 million tons. The north with installed production capacity of 35. 18 million tons (80 percent) while the south with installed production capacity of 8. 89 million tons (20 percent), compete for the domestic market of over 19 million tons. There are four foreign companies, three armed forces companies and 16 private companies listed in the stock exchanges. The industry is divided into two broad regions, the northern region and the southern region. The northern region has around 80 percent share in total cement dispatches while the units based in the southern region contributes 20 percent to the annual cement sales. Cement industry is indeed a highly important segment of industrial sector that plays a pivotal role in the socio-economic development. Since cement is a specialized product, requiring sophisticated infrastructure and production location. Mostly of the cement industries in Pakistan are located near/within mountainous regions that are rich in clay, iron and mineral capacity. Cement industries in Pakistan are currently operating at their maximum capacity due to the boom in commercial and industrial construction within Pakistan. The cement sector is contributing above Rs 30 billion to the national exchequer in the form of taxes. Cement industry is also serving the nation by providing job opportunities and presently more than 150,000 persons are employed directly or indirectly by the industry. The industry had exported 7. 716 million tons cement during the year 2007-08 and had earned $450 million, while is expected to export 11. 0 million tons of cement during 2008-09 and earn approximately $700 million. Fiscal Performance 2008-09 Business Recorder reported that Pakistan’s cement exports witnessed a healthy growth of 65%, to over 6 million tons during 7 months of the current fiscal year mainly due to rise in international demand. The exports may reach to 11 million tonnes and earn approx $ 700 million during 2008-09. The statistics of All Pakistan Ce ment Manufacturers Association also showed that cement exports had mounted to over 6 million tons in 7 months as compared to 3. 2 million tons of same period of last fiscal year, depicting an increase of 2. 38 million tons. Cement exports during January 2009 went up by 30% to 0. 81 million tons as compared to 0. 623 million tons in January 2008. However, slow construction activities in the country during the period badly upset domestic sale of cement, which depicted decline of 15%, to 10. 77 million tons as compared to 12. 59 million tons of last fiscal year. On MoM basis, local dispatches of cement during January 2009 showed a decline of 8%, to 1. 51 million tons from 1. 65 million tons of January 2008. Overall dispatches, including export and local sales, reached 16. 77 million tons during July to January of 2008-09 as against 16. 20 million tons of last fiscal year, depicting an increase of 3%. By September 2009, after witnessing substantial growth in all three quarters of fiscal year (FY) 2008-09, cement sector concluded the fourth quarter with a handsome growth of 1,492 percent on yearly basis, All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association’s report revealed on 29th September 2009. Higher retention prices (up 59 percent) and high rupee based export sales amid rupee depreciation (20 percent) drove profits up north. However, this growth is magnified, as FY2007-08 was an abnormally low profit period for the sector. Moreover, the performance is skewed towards large players with export potential as profitable companies in both years posted increase of just 109 percent, said analyst at JS Research Atif Zafar. He said that cumulative profitability of companies in FY09 stood at Rs 6. 2 billion or $78. 2 million as compared to Rs 386 million or $6. 2 million depicting a massive growth of 1,492 percent. Companies with profits in both the years posted 109 percent earnings improvement. Though total dispatches were down 2 percent, net sales grew by 55 percent to Rs 101. 4 billion or $1. 3 billion on the back of higher net retention prices (up 59 percent) and improved export based revenues. Cost of sales/tonne also rose by 33 percent on yearly basis amid higher realised coal prices and inflationary pressures, the analyst maintained. Production Capacity In Pakistan, there are 29 cement manufacturers that are playing a vital role in the building up the country’s economy and contribution towards growth and prosperity. After 2002-3, most of the cement manufacturers expanded their operations, and increased production. This sector has invested about $1. 5 billion in capacity expansion over the last six years. The operating capacity of cement in 1991 was 7 million tons, which increased to become 18 million tons by 2005-06 and by end of 2007 rose to above 37 million tones, and currently the production cpapacity is 44. 07 million tonnes. Cement production capacity in the north is 35. 18 million tons (80 percent) while in the south it is only 8. 89 million tons (20 percent). The cement manufacturers in 2007-08 added above eight million tons to the capacity and the total production was expected to exceed 45 million tons by the end of 2010. It may result in a supply glut of seven million tons in 2009 and 2010. Actual Cement Production (in million tons) According to Government Board of Investment, 2001-02 – 9. 83 2002-03 – 10. 85 2003-04 – 12. 86 2004-05 – 16. 09 2005-06 – 18. 48 2006-07 – 22. 73 2007-08 – 26. 75 2008-09 – 20. 28 Exports International Markets The cement industry of Pakistan entered the export markets a few years back, and has established its reputation as a good quality product. Deregulation after accession of Pakistan to WTO is expected to open the window of competition from cheaper markets. The recent acquisition of Chakwal Cement by an Egyptian giant, Orascom may be a beginning of such an entry in Pakistan by multinationals. New avenues for export of cement are opening up for the indigenous industry as Sri Lanka has recently shown interest to import 30,000 tons cement from Pakistan every month. If the industry is able to avail the opportunity offered, it may secure a significant share of Sri Lanka market by supplying 360,000 tons of cement annually. In 2007, 130,000 tons cement was exported to India. In 2007, the exports to Afghanistan, UAE and Iraq touched 2. 13 million tons. At present, the economies of major countries are facing recession, but Pakistan’s cement sector is still maintaining a healthy growth. Cement export to India has already slowed after imposition of duty by Indian authorities. Pricing Another problem faced earlier by the Industry was the high taxation. The general sales tax (GST) was 186% higher than India. The impact of this tax and duty structure resulted in almost 40% increase in the cost of a cement bag (50 Kg). A bag in India earlier cost Rs. 160 as compared to Rs. 220 in Pakistan. In the budget of 2003-04, a duty cut of 25% was permitted to the cement sector with assurance from the cartel to pass on this benefit to the consumers. In 2006, the price of a bag went up to Rs. 430 however in 2007 it has stabilized at Rs. 315 per bag. In mid 2008, cement prices stabilized further at Rs. 220 per bag. The Government has reduced central excise duty (CED) on cement in the budget for 2007-08 in order to boost construction activity. Average industry cost of cement bag/50Kg = Rs. 193 Average industry price of cement bag/50Kg = Rs. 235 Domestic Demand Local demand in the country for the year 2008-09 is expected to be around 20 million tons. Domestic demand is expected to grow at 13% Capacity growth rate (CAGR) during next five years. Certain factors will also affect the growth of cement industry as well. These are as follows: Strong GDP growth O Higher GDP growth has positive impact on cement demand. O Cement demand growth rate was double the GDP growth rate in last three years. Housing sector growth O Housing projects consume roughly 40% of cement demand. O Low interest rates, post 9/11 remittances’ inflow, and real estate boom have helped housing sector growth. Government Development Expenditures O Government development expenditures count for one third of total cement consumption. O Increase in PSDP – from Rs. 80 bn in 1999 to Rs. 520 bn in 2007. O Infrastructure development in a region triggers private development projects having even positive impact on cement demand. Earthquake Rehabilitation O Earthquake losses of October 8th are estimated at $ 5. 2bn O Reconstruction work will boost construction material demand O Reconstruction work is expected to generate cement demand of 4mn tons over next 3-4 years Announcement of large Dams O Construction of four large dams will generate demand of 3. 7mn tons. Bhasha Daimer Dam, Munda Dam, Akhori Dam and Neelum Jhelum. Per Capita Cement Consumption Pakistan currently has a per capita consumption of 131kg of cement, which is comparable to that for India at 135kg per capita but substantially below the World Average 270kg and the regional average of over 400kg for peers in Asia and over 600kg in the Middle East. Cement demand remained stagnated during 90’s owing to lack of development activities. In 1997, per capita consumption was 73 kg in both Pakistan and India. By 2005-06, consumption in India rose to become 115 kg/capita whereas ours rose to 117 kg/capita. A comparison of few countries in 2005: Bangladesh 50 kg/capita Pakistan 117 kg/capita India 115 kg/capita USA 375 kg/capita Iran 470 kg/capita Malaysia 530 kg/capita EU 560 kg/capita China 625 kg/capita UAE 1095 kg/capita Challenges to Cement Industry The cost and exports may be affected due to weakness of the US dollar causing coal, electricity charges and freight prices, comprising 65 to 70 percent of the cost. The PSDP allocation for 2009 has been cut by Rs 75 billion and feared further cuts would curtail cement demand. Major capacities of countries like India and Iran are expected to come online by FY10 and onwards which are likely to convert these countries from dependent importers to potential exporters. Moreover, this current rising trend is expected to be short-lived due to higher interest rates and inflationary concerns are likely to make it disadvantageous for investors to enter the construction industry. In addition to this, to control real estate prices the government is considering imposing a tax on it. Major General Rehmat Khan, Chairman of All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA), told Business Recorder, â€Å"cement industry is getting Rs 24 per ton as day dutydrawback for export of cement which needs to be revised. In view of today’s calculation for duty drawback, which works out to Rs 130 per ton, he proposed that duty drawback be increased to Rs 130 per ton ,instead of Rs 24 per ton. † Referring to taxation on cement, he said that cement dispatches are subject to payment of federal excise duty @ Rs 900 per ton, general sales tax @ 16 percent, special excise duty @ 1 percent, marking fee @ 0. 1 percent of ex-factory price, besides provincial duties and taxes. These taxes come to around Rs 96 per bag which is the highest in the world. Cement, it appears, is being treated as a luxury item for the purpose of taxes and duties. He proposed that the government should reduce excise duty by Rs 450 per ton in the forthcoming budget while the remaining half should be eliminated altogether along with the special excise duty. Besides this, sales tax should not be charged on excise duty paid value. He also proposed withdrawal of customs duty on Pet Coke and remove it from negative list for import from India because cement industry imports Coal and Pet Coke as fuel for production and customs duty on imported coal is zero while on Pet Coke it is charged @ 5 percent. (c) ECONOMIC PAKISTAN How to cite Pakistan Cement Industry, Essays

Creativity in Dreams The mind at its Creative Peak Essay Example For Students

Creativity in Dreams The mind at its Creative Peak Essay CD That which the dream shows is the shadow of such wisdom as exists in man, even if during his waking state he may know nothing about it.. We do not know it because we are fooling away our time with outward and perishing things, and are sleep in regard to that which is real within ourselves. -Paracles The quote on dreams, taken out of the novel by Ann Faraday entitled The Dream Game, sums up the necessity for the dream and the importance of our creativity in the dream state. Not only is it imperative to understand this importance of creativity, but to ask and find out how this process we call dreaming takes place. One can accomplish this task by using a step by step approach to dreams. First looking at the mind from a psychological standpoint and then moving on to the creative process and how it is involved in dreaming. Ultimately, one will move to see that in a dream, the mind is at its creative peak because the mind is unconsciously opening doors to information processed during the day that has been unknowingly passed over. The mind is probably one of the most complex systems in the body and is constantly being studied. Though much is still to be understood, scientists have been able to watch carefully and see how the dream images are produced. Many experts say that more information is processed in a dreaming brain that in the awake state (Faraday 17). The brainstem generates signals (PGO Waves) with sensory information, the brainstem responds to the signals, but is not activated. These images are the sources of dream images. Although a brainstem is not activated, the signals do trigger a system called the Central Motor Pattern Generator, during REM sleep, which causes the sensation of movement during ones dreams (Hobson 162). REM sleep occurs every 90 minutes of the sleeping state, beginning first, with short activity and increasing with each passing period. REM periods are when the eyes move back and forth underneath the eyelids according to the brain activity in dreaming (Faraday 20). Not only is there a complicated process in the production of the dream image, but also as the brainstem is producing signals it causes a reaction called A.S.H. which creates the contents of ones dreams. A.S.H. or Activation-synthesis Hypothesis is the loss of a neurotransmitter that chemically charges the mind to process information differently (Hobson 164-5). These neurotransmitters help creativity in dreams, but are not always used to their full potential. 95%-99% of dreams are forgotten because the aminergic neurotransmitters are blocked in REM sleep. However, when awaked in the REM state the transmitters are opened and information is recorded and remembered; creativity during the dream period is utilized (Hobson 166). The creative process is looked at from two main views. The first is that the creative process is not enhanced by dreaming, but when one is asleep, stress is not invading the mind and therefore it is free to think; that is the illusion of the mind being more creative. Stress is something that affects everyone almost every day. When applied to the creative thought process, it is easy to see how it can become a wall that is difficult to push through. The dream content can be traced to the current ongoing of the individuals life, before sleep, and to the emotional level of the dreamer on the subsequent morning. In a dream, events, thoughts and feelings are reflected, that are passed by because we are not aware to catch them; we are to stressed (Faraday 4). Stress comes from many sources in life such as home, work, and one of the most common among young adults and kids is school. When in deeper, longer period of REM sleep, stress is less and less a factor. .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 , .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 .postImageUrl , .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 , .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0:hover , .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0:visited , .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0:active { border:0!important; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0:active , .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0 .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u1d9879e0a3d9379e3b3351db8a9cf6e0:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Mustard Gas Is A Group Of Chemical Compounds Used In Chemical Warfare, Essay This relief, during REM awakening dreams, leads to more bizarre dreams that include more physical and emotional activity. Each sense, in a dream state, is enhanced when awakened during REM cluster (Hobson 155-6). When this view of creativity in dreams is opened, stress is simply shown to be the cause of suppressing the mind and

Same Sex Unions Essays - John Boswell, Same-sex Marriage

Same Sex Unions Book Review: Same Sex Unions in Premodern Europe by John Boswell The question of same-sex unions and their legitimacy in many different societies is a topic that has been hotly debated for centuries. One society in particular is pre-modern Europe. Noted author and historian Dr. John Boswell looks extensively at the topic of same-sex unions in his book Same Sex Unions in Premodern Europe. Dr. Boswell argues extensively in his book that the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches not only sanctioned unions between partners of the same sex, but actually sanctified them. This critique examines some specific aspects of the book, and analyzes them. Before an analysis of the Same Sex Unions in Premodern Europe can be evaluated, it's important to know a little about the author himself and what he stood for. Dr. Boswell was a professor at Yale University and Chairman of Yale's history department for many years. He was an award winning scholar, author and historian. In addition to writing Same Sex Unions in Premodern Europe he also wrote several other works such as Christianity, Social Tolerance and Homosexuality. Two of his greatest professional achievements included being a Woodrow Wilson Fellow and a Fulbright scholar. It is his extensive training as a Historian and an understanding of his own homosexuality that gave him unique insight into the writing of Same Sex Unions in Premodern Europe. In Same Sex Unions in Modern Europe, Boswell takes a highly controversial position in saying that the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches actually sanctified same sex unions, while at the same time, presenting his viewpoints in such a way that any well educated historian would? very carefully. He almost contradicts himself at several points in the book and mentions that his ideas are subject to debate among his peers. Boswell, in writing this book has essentially established a Premodern Europe where heterosexual marriage was largely ignored by pagans and discouraged by the church. Also, according to Boswell, men would essentially pair off in order to perform duties that were considered essential to society such as war, trade, education, friendship, etc. As Boswell puts it ?it is hardly surprising that there should been a Christian solemnizing same sex unions.? I do not agree with him on this premise, although homosexuality has existed in animal species and in humans since the beginnings of our existence, how can he be so bold as to assume that the majority of these supposed pairs were homosexual? In my opinion that broad of a statement is like saying that any two men that shake hands or embrace must automatically be gay. There is a second specific point that I wish to point out with regards to medieval priest and the monastic life. Boswell points out in Same Sex Unions in Premodern Europe that young boys caught performing homosexual acts were ?punished? by being sent to a monastery. Was this meant as ?punishment? to deprive these boys of their youth or to isolate them from the supposed forces that made them perform these acts? Boswell points out ?in any event, being placed with monks was likely to provide the best environment to locate other men romantically interested in their own gender.? That's all well and good, but he undermines his own thesis here. If the Christian Right of the time so vehemently supported same sex unions, then why would boys who engaged in same-sex acts be ?punished? at all? Should not they be encouraged to be homosexual? Boswell not only mildly contradicts himself here, he goes a step further and practically destroys his own thesis. Through reading Same Sex Unions in Premodern Europe, relating it to my own experiences as a history major, and gay male, not to mention discussions in class, I do not believe that same sex unions were as heavily sanctioned in Premodern Europe by churches as Boswell would have us believe. It is my opinion that there have fluctuations between then and now as to exactly how much homosexuality is tolerated by the so-called mainstream society. There were places such as Ancient Greece where it was accepted and modern day liberal locations such as San Francisco, California that have a large gay/lesbian population. In both places both in the past

Chicago Referencing †How to Cite a Book

Chicago Referencing – How to Cite a Book Chicago Referencing – How to Cite a Book The Chicago Manual of Style actually sets out rules for two separate citation styles: in-text â€Å"author–date† citations and a footnote/bibliography system. Depending on your outlook, this dual system is either admirably versatile or unhelpfully confusing. Nevertheless, whichever approach you’re using, it’s vital that you know how to cite a book correctly. On our academic blog today, we run through the basics for doing this using both approaches. Author–Date Citations As with many parenthetical referencing systems, Chicago-style author–date citations require you to provide the author’s surname and the date of publication in the main text when referencing a source. A citation of a book by cheeky French philosopher Paul Ricoeur would, therefore, appear as: Interpretation involves the metaphorical and speculative domains of meaning (Ricoeur 1978). If the author is named in the text, only the year is required in the citation. The only other thing you’ll need to provide in in-text citations are relevant page numbers when quoting a source: Ricoeur (1978, 17) states that â€Å"metaphor is defined in terms of movement.† All cited texts should then be added to a reference list at the end of your document, with sources listed alphabetically by author surname and full publication details provided. For a book, this includes: Author Surname, First Name. Year of Publication. Title. City of Publication: Publisher. In Ricoeur’s case, this translates to: Ricoeur, Paul. 1978. The Rule of Metaphor. London: Routledge Kegan Paul. Footnotes/Bibliography The other form of Chicago referencing places citations in footnotes, as indicated by superscript numbers in the main text (e.g., 1, 2, 3). The information required for the first citation of a book is: n. Author Name, Title (City of Publication: Publisher, Year), Page Number(s). Returning to our philosopher friend, the first footnote for The Rule of Metaphor would therefore appear as: 1. Paul Ricoeur, The Rule of Metaphor (London: Routledge Kegan Paul, 1978), 24. Subsequent citations of the same text can be shorted to just author surname, a shortened version of the book title and the relevant page number (or â€Å"pinpoint reference,† as it is otherwise known): 2. Ricoeur, Rule of Metaphor, 112. As well as footnotes, this version of Chicago referencing lists all cited texts in a bibliography at the end of the document. The information required is similar to the first footnote, but with slightly different punctuation and the author name reversed so that sources can be listed alphabetically by surname: Ricoeur, Paul. The Rule of Metaphor. London: Routledge Kegan Paul, 1978. A Final Thought Since these two versions of Chicago referencing are very different, the single most important thing you can do before you begin writing is check which version is specified by your style guide. Also, it’s worth mentioning that Paul Ricoeur would probably have rejected being described as â€Å"cheeky.† Nevertheless, it’s how we prefer to think of him.

What is the view of mission presented by the Book of Acts Essay

What is the view of mission presented by the Book of Acts - Essay Example The stages also show that the nature of missionary in the church emerges from the involvement of the community in particular events with the guidance of the spirit of God. These seven stages are: before the Pentecost, during the Pentecost, the time of Stephen, Samaria and the Ethiopian Eunuch, Cornelius and his household, the apostles in Antioch and the mission to the Gentiles. This episode is found in the book of Acts chapter 1. From this chapter, it is evident that the mission of Jesus in the world was to preach to all people, serve them and to witness about the goodness of God. As Luke explains in the beginning of the book of Acts, Jesus appeared to the twelve disciples after his resurrection. Before he ascended to heaven, he gave them instructions not to leave the City, Jerusalem, before they receive the Holy Spirit. The disciples then ask Jesus if the arrival of God’s Spirit meant that the Kingdom of God will reign on earth. Jesus answers them by saying that they need not to know of the right time of the Kingdom of God but instead they will receive power through the arrival of the Spirit of God. He tells them that they will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Samaria, and Judea and to every part of the world for Christ. The commandment of Jesus to the twelve disciples as Luke describes shows the guidance of the spirit of God to the community in the majo r mission and its identity (1:3-8). After the ascension of Jesus, the disciples did not immediately go to Samaria and Judea; instead, they waited in Jerusalem for the reign of God through the second coming of Jesus. In Jerusalem, they made the number complete by replacing Judas the traitor with Mathias through an election. They ensured that Mathias was like them and was a witness to Jesus. Mathias was with Jesus from the baptism of John until his death and resurrection. This was a preparation for the fulfilment of the great mission that Jesus had ordained. This is because the

Use of Social Media Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Use of Social Media - Research Paper Example This paper tells that social media has been flagged as a potential threat if used inappropriately. Issues of privacy, unnecessary information, negative influence, devaluation of human values are some of the negative issues associated with social media. For proper utilization of social media, governments should take control on managing social media so that issues like privacy, dangerous outcomes, and endless distractions can be maintained. Certainly, social media connects millions of people across the world. Among these people are genuine users as well as hackers and other malicious identities. Social media such as Facebook is a good avenue for accessing a large pool of people of all kinds. This makes it an attractive haven for any person with personal interests. For instance, politicians have often used social media to propagate their political ideologies some of which may trigger hatred among the target groups. North Africa an Arabian region revolution that began in Tunisia is a goo d example of overwhelming political usage of social media. Advertisers and business entities are always crawling through social media in search for opportunity to exploit. Whereas everybody is looking at an opportunity to benefit themselves, it poses a serious privacy risks to social media users. Certainly, â€Å"Breaches of privacy and security are frequently mentioned topics and so is identity theft, online bullying, and disclosure of potentially damaging or embarrassing personal information† (Shneiderman et al, 2011).  Perhaps one of the most potentially dangerous technologies is social media. Due to the high degree of penetration, wide usage, freedom, anonymity, and interconnectivity, social media is potentially dangerous if not properly regulated. Politically, social media, particularly Facebook, has been a prime platform for the propagation of political and religious views. It does not come by surprise that the recent revolution in Tunisia, Egypt, and other Islamic co untries was made possible by social media. The hazardous nature of social media stems from the fact that it supports anonymity. People have different thoughts and ideologies that they would like others to adopt. Whereas some people have well-meaning ideologies, others such as extremists, pose a danger to the population. According to Shneiderman et al (2011), â€Å"the potential for more polarized discussions as users selectively view only materials aligned with their world view and scientists retreat to narrow research topics.† Terrorists have also been using social media platforms to propagate their ideologies. In order to protect users of social media against uncontrolled use, the relevant authorities need to put measures into place (Madhava, 2011). For example, it may be necessary and important for all social media platforms to keep electronic and retrievable copies of all web activities. This way, it would be easy for the relevant authorities to keep track of potentially harmful use. Additionally, user information may be required to be incorporated within the usage of the media platforms so that users can be held accountable for wrongful use of social media.  

Evolution and Natural Selection Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Evolution and Natural Selection - Essay Example However in the mid-nineteenth century, scientist like Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace sought to explain this process of adaptation and change as a natural one without attributing it to the influence of higher beings and spiritual powers. Fossil records are perhaps the best natural evidence of evolution. While the fossils of simpler organism are found among older rocks, the newer ones have fossils of more complex organisms.. (GCSE, BBC) Evolution is of 2 main types: Microevolution and macroevolution. Microevolution emphasises on genetic change from one generation to another while macroevolution deals with the process of gradual change in the physical form of living creatures. (The Process of Speciation, Global Change Program, University of Michigan) This paper will focus on the theory of evolution put forth by Charles Darwin. Key aspects of evolution like the process of Natural Selection and Variation will be discussed. Also, with reference to reference to 'Darwin's finches', the paper will describe how geographical isolation has caused new species to evolve from a common ancestor Darwin was influenced by observations made during his voyage as naturalist on the survey ship Beagle. After studying several plant and animal species, Charles Darwin published some of his key observations and ideas in his book, "The Origin of Species." His theory of evolution comprises 4 parts: 1. As fossils records shows the world is constantly changing. Several organisms have become extinct and others have changed over time are are rather different from their previously existing forms. 2. All organisms share a common ancestor and hence certain common features. 3. The process of change is a gradual one 4. The mechanism of evolutionary change is natural selection. (Evolution and Natural Selection, Global Change, University of Michigan) Natural Selection: The concept of Natural Selection according to Darwin is the mechanism for evolutionary change. He discussed Natural Selection in the context of an organism 'struggle for existence'. Every organism Darwin believed tended to produce far more offspring than can actually survive. Limited resources often caused several of these to perish. As a result, there was intense competition between these organisms and only some survive to live and reproduce further. Darwin also believed that the population within a species remained more or less constant over time. However these species do show a wide variation in features and these variations are passed on from one generation to another. (Ridley, 2003). The following chart describes the process of Natural selection. Source: Evolution and Natural Selection, Global Change, University of Michigan For natural selection to occur, reproduction is a very important aspect. Offspring's inherit certain important features from their parents, which help them in the struggle for existence. Besides there are 2 essential requirement, namely a. heritable variation of some trait like the beak or skin colour The differences in these traits could b a result of environmental factors and could often be significant for survival in that environment. differential survival and reproduction of that trait is essential to ensure that (Evolution and Na

Story of Mary Magdalene

Story of Mary Magdalene A continued interest and associations with Mary Magdalene provided for further examination. The relevance of her time as a example of inspiration to all who still find their paths of sincerity and goodwill marked by scandal and controversy. The following personal journal entry may serve to clarify this interest. One of the most interesting and inspirational women of the bible, is Mary Magdalene. Her apparent dedication to Jesus despite ridicule, jealously and un-acceptance amongst his friends can be related to by many women throughout history. The importance of whether she was a prostitute, Jesus wife or both becomes less relevant than the conflicts she faced in her times and her steadfast dedication to Him, regardless of definition of relationship between and degree of intimacy expressed. Many women throughout history and today find themselves judged in societal situations in which they have to determine their dedication and faith within their relationship and would find Mary Magdalenes decisions and actions inspirational and reassuring to see that they are not alone in their situation. Mary Magdalenes influence and role in the bible seem to be one of the best influences in humanize Jesus. Showing us some the personal and emotional challenges that Jesus faced as a person and therefore having his life experience expressed in a way everyone, at some point in their lives can relate to. While the recount says that all of the disciples fled, out of fear, when Jesus was crucified, it is only Mary Magdalene that is recounted in all 4 versions of the Gospel to be near or by Jesus side during this horrific experience. Guess you know who your friends are when the chips are down. This brief recap of a previous journal entry was used to outline what is recognized as the most personally relevant stories of the bible and the observations regarding them. The following stories of Mary Magdalene from the bible are as powerful and relevant to the lives of many and in addition work to help me appreciate, understand and complete my initial observations. The following is taken from http://www.womeninthebible.net/2.2.Mary_Magdalene.htm Mary Magdalenes story is contained in four different events: Mary Magdalene as a disciple of Jesus (Luke 8:1-3) Mary is mentioned as the woman whom Jesus cured of an unspecified illness. She was expelled of seven different demons. The number seven may have been used to emphasize the severity of the illness. She led a group of women who provided for Jesus and his followers from their own financial resources. The following is quoted from http://www.biblebb.com/files/kss/kss-mmag.htm She was committed. MAR 8:34, 35 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. she had followed Him from Galilee, her home (Mat 27:55; MAR 15:41; LUK 23:49). LUK 23:49 But all those who knew him, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things. MAT 27:55, 56 Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedees sons. she cared for Jesus needs (MAT 27:55; MAR 15:41). MAT 27:55 Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedees sons. MAR 15:41 In Galilee these women had followed him and cared for his needs. Many other women who had come up with him to Jerusalem were also there. *she gave whatever she could to further Gods cause- This is a demonstration of Jesus acceptance of the independent woman. This was revolutionary in and of itself given the perceptions of woman of the times. Mary at the crucifixion (Mark 15:40-41, Luke 23:49, Matthew 27:55-56, John 19:25) In each of the four gospels of the crucifixion Mary was present, either standing at a distance with other women, or standing near the cross. Mary prepared Jesus body for burial (Luke 23:55-56, Matthew 27:61) Mary watched as Jesus body was sealed inside the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea. She could confirm that he was really dead. She and the other women prepared the spices needed for proper burial of a body. Jewish tombs: Jews followed the custom of burial in natural and artificial caves. Generally only the rich used tombs, with the poor using pits, cisterns, caves, and earthen graves outside their cities. Tombs were located in gardens attached to homes, within city walls, on elevated sites, on hillsides, and in caves (natural and hand hewn). this information is from The Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible, vol. 5, pg.772. Prophets and kings were buried within the city limits; everyone else was buried outside the city limits. Wealthy tombs were often cut into rock, some containing several chambers. The entrance was closed by rolling around rolling-stone down an inclined plane in front of the mouth of the sepulcher. this information is from Manners and Customs of Bible Lands, by Fred H. Wright, Moody Press, co. 1953, pgs. 144,145. 4 Mary witnesses the resurrection (Mark 16:1-11, Luke 24:1-11, Matthew 28:1-10, John 20:1-18). Mary found that Jesus body was no longer in the tomb. She received a message from an angel and was the first person to see the risen Jesus. She was thus the first witness of the resurrection. The ethical cultural and political environment surrounding the people of this time played a strong influence on the interpretation of Mary Magdalenes life. Even with the stark contrast of todays environment of Middle America the relevance of interpretation of the power and influence of this women offers as an example for todays woman. The people of Jesus time lived in a state occupied by Roman rule, law and allegiance to Cesar, King of the Roman Empire. The Jewish state in this region was allowed certain amount of religious tolerance provided that legal and economic sanctions were upheld by the Jews with regard to Roman rule. The following quote is taken from http://www.womeninthebible.net/2.2.Mary_Magdalene.htm Greek philosophy was greatly admired at the time of Jesus, and it had a profound impact on the way that people saw their world. One of the greatest philosophers, Plato, proposed the theory of dualism, suggesting that everything in the cosmos had an equal and opposite other. This theory had a profound impact on the way that women were viewed, and it was not to womens advantage. Woman was placed in a category containing elements that were viewed as negative: Civilization was the ideal; Nature was mistrusted and potentially dangerous. Logic and reason were admired, and emotion was to be subordinated. Goodness was always preferable to evil. Light, especially in the pre-industrial world, was preferred to darkness These are examples only, but they show that Platonic dualism placed women in a negative category. They were seen as closer to the natural/animal world than men. By nature they were irrational and untrustworthy, and therefore unfit to make their own decisions and govern their own lives. They had to be looked after and controlled, never treated as equals. This differed from the traditional Jewish way of looking at the world, which saw all things in creation as integrated and complementary, rather than as opposites of each other. An example of this is the creation story of Eve, which relates that the first woman was created from a rib taken by God from Adams side, thereby suggesting that a man could never be fully complete unless he was in partnership with a woman. Jewish and Jewish/Christian women resisted the ideas of Platonic dualism, which patronized them and diminished their status. While Christianity remained a Jewish sect, the status ofwomen within the Christian communities was high. But as the ideas of Christianity moved out into the Gentile, Hellenised world, the first Christians found they had to use the Greek philosophical framework to explain their beliefs and be accepted.So Jesus original ideal of mutual respect between the sexes was watered down and changed. Women found they were given roles that were acceptable in the outside, Hellenistic culture. In doing so, the Christian church stepped back from the radical ideals of the first Jewish/Christians. The following excerpt was taken from http://www.watton.org/wftk/teaching/mary_magdalene.htm Jesus sees women as they were created equal reflectors of Gods image. God created us in his image we mirror a family resemblance of Him. 2 Cor.3:18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lords glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. This doesnt mean our physical nature but our spiritual and moral nature. We are able to communicate. We are creative, and that gives us joy and satisfaction. We experience emotions and feelings. We know the difference between right and wrong. We are responsible for our actions. Even though the original relationship between God and man was cut by the fall, God has pursued his children through the ages, sending his son Jesus so that we might be reconciled to God and become his sons and daughters. His image is reflected in us. Because of Jesus the image is brought back into focus so that his glory shines from the reflection. Jesus is in each one of us, you and me, and His glory shines out. This examination of Mary Magdalenes life and times has offered clarity in relating to those hardships and challenges and has served as an inspiration to women of all times. WORK CITED Biblical References have been noted as used throughout this document. http://www.womeninthebible.net/2.2.Mary_Magdalene.htm http://www.biblebb.com/files/kss/kss-mmag.htm http://www.biblebb.com/files/kss/kss-mmag.htm Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible, vol. 5, pg.772. Manners and Customs of Bible Lands, by Fred H. Wright, Moody Press, co. 1953, pgs. 144,145. http://www.womeninthebible.net/2.2.Mary_Magdalene.htm http://www.watton.org/wftk/teaching/mary_magdalene.htm

cathedrals :: essays papers

cathedrals Throughout the centuries, beautiful Medieval cathedrals have been towering above every building and till this day, still survive with their astonishing appearance. Their structure resemble the power and glory of heavens. Today, they are known as "prayers in stone" because they are respected as holy places. Taking literally hundreds of years to build these great Gothic buildings, the skillful carpenters and masons responsible for the construction are respected for constructing these powerful buildings that tell us about the past (Macdonald 1). The construction of the cathedrals were more than hundreds of years (Macdonald 14). The overall shape of appearance was planned out before any construction was started. The contractors were usually peasants of the low class. Cathedrals were built on old church sites throughout Europe and the world to spread the religion of Christianity. There were many architectural styles for the churches. Carpenters used long lasting materials such as stone and strong wood. Some of the best stone came from France. Cranes and pulleys powered by men and animals were used to haul these stones, especially in the dangerous job of quarrying. The appearance of the cathedrals were magnificent. As one of the largest buildings of its time period, they represented the heavens in which people believed was peaceful and serene. Walls and pillars were massive structures enclosing hundreds of yards. Stone arches and gargoyles were put in various places for decoration. The elevating towers on top of the cathedrals were called "fingers" pointing to heaven. Inside these enormous "fingers," immense bells and clocks were placed. Stained-glass windows on the sides describe the lord, Jesus, and his life. The ever going ceilings and their paintings represent heaven. Statues symbolized sacred priests of the church (Macdonald Intro.). The purpose of these cathedrals were to praise and thank God. People offer prayers and offerings to God at the great cathedrals thinking it would bring a prosperous and healthy life. In the Middle Ages, these "prayers in stone" were made to spread Christianity throughout the world. Being the Bishop’s church, the greatest centers of studies were inside the depths of the cathedrals. The pope answered the most theorized questions about Christianity. Cathedrals and the people inside implored that God is the most important part of a person’s life and should be thanked for everything.