Spiritual Belief: A World Split Apart

Rico Spears Ms. Lisle 9/26/12 Academic Writing and Research Spiritual Belief In this analysis paper I will talk about incorporating God throughout everyday life, whether it be through materialistic things or one’s own self perception of how it is to live and pattern after Godly ways . In â€Å"A World Split Apart,† Alexander Solzhenitsyn infers that there is a higher power than man; a lack of spirituality can harm ones afterlife. Through a higher power all things are possible he says, â€Å"If, as claimed by humanism, man were born only to be happy, he would not be born to die.Since his body is doomed to death, his task on earth evidently must be more spiritual: not a total engrossment in everyday life, not the search for the best ways to obtain material goods and then their carefree consumption. † Whereas in â€Å"A Voice from Russia’s Past,† by Jack Fruchtman Jr. he simply argues that Solzhenitsyn is speaking from Slavophiles point of view, which stands as a group of Russian philologists and nationalists interested in the origins of the Russian language.Fruchtman also stated that Solzhenitsyn echoed this theme at Harvard when he noted that the philosophical foundation of the West has historically rested on a â€Å"rationalistic humanism,† by which he meant â€Å"the proclaimed and enforced autonomy of man from any higher force above him. (Fruchtman 44)† My last and final source will come from â€Å"Presenting Humanism† by Jende Huang. Huang speaks from a humanist view and states that our society has been so socialized to accept the idea that believing in God is something that is â€Å"good,† and even for a religious liberal, there may exist, an unconscious desire to hold onto that.The realization that you don't need a god to live your life is a difficult one and one that cannot be easily acknowledged. Solzhenitsyn and Huang share some of the same spiritual beliefs when referring to man. Huang stat es that man was created to be â€Å"God like† and to pattern ways after God. Speaking from a humanist point of view Huang says, â€Å"ideally, humanist are continually open to new ideas and new information, nd refuse to be shackled by beliefs that remain outside the realm of testability,† (Huang 1-3); he proves this by stating humanism is analogous to science in the sense that both are concerned not only with the body of knowledge and the evidence that supports it, but with efficient means and methods used to gain knowledge. Is it right that man’s life and society’s activities are ruled by material expansion above all? Solzhenitsyn asks this question in reference to government. Laws are put in place to abide by but there is always a loop hole in any law system.Laws are to protect the rights of others or for humans as one body to abide by. Through all the materialistic abuse of power used by some government officials, Solzhenitsyn tends to acknowledge that even in the era that he is in, man is still the head. Life after death, as he talks about spirituality, should be better than your life on earth. Even Huang states that if you accept the bible as truth, you’re agreeing that God would spread his message to pre-agricultural nomads who couldn’t even imagine the evaluation of human society over the subsequent thousands of years.Understanding that you don’t need God to live your everyday life, Huang says, humans still do things to show representation that he is a factor in life such as: going to church and taking communion; â€Å" Do this as often as you remember me† 1st Corinthians 11:25 (NKJ). Man is not perfect but by following the bible he can reach salvation and become cleansed through baptism and understanding that each day you can become more â€Å"God like. James Reston who wrote â€Å"A Russian at Harvard† states that Solzhenitsyn is right in many cases but contradicts the demeanor of his mes sage a lot. Solzhenitsyn entitles his address â€Å"A World Split Apart† why so Reston questions the diverse message in each passage to say it sounds like a â€Å"mind split apart† (Reston pg. 37). Reston says that Solzhenitsyn was right to complain about that â€Å"hastiness and superficiality are the psychic disease of the Twentieth Century† (Reston pg. 38); in reference to the war period and the lack of spiritual belief. After the suffering of decades of violence and oppression, the human soul longs for things higher, warmer and purer than those offered by today’s mass living habits, introduced by the revolting invasion of publicity, by TV stupor and by intolerable music†,(Solzhenitsyn pg. 14) Solzhenitsyn writes this statement proving all points to the lacking of â€Å"spiritual being† stated by him. Ending his speech, Solzhenitsyn speaks about a higher power. In Philippians 4:13 it says, â€Å"I can do all things through Christ (God) wh ich strengthen me† (NKJ). Solzhenitsyn asks â€Å"Is it true that man is above everything? Is there no superior spirit above him?Is it right that man’s life and society’s activities should be ruled by material expansion above all? Is it permissible to promote such expansion to the detriment of our integral spiritual life? †(Solzhenitsyn pg. 21) What is life or even afterlife? In contrast with that similar understanding Fruchtman attacks by still having Solzhenitsyn, in a Slavophile voice he states that Solzhenitsyn and the Slavophiles believe that this decline and everything accompanying it was deeply rooted in Western history, a history of man, where man has lost his spiritual tie to the infinite, the eternal, and the timeless( Fruchtman pg. 45).The Slavophile Ivan Kiereevsky wrote, â€Å" it is painful to see what a subtle, but inevitable and just-sent madness now drives the Western man. He feels his darkness and like a moth, he flies into the fire, whi ch he takes to be the sun. He cries like a frog and barks like a dog, when he hears the word of God. †(Fruchtman pg. 45) Man, in short, is no longer human, and the decline of the West is upon us. Fruchtman attests his point later on in his response when he references how Solzhenitsyn says it is a society which is doomed because of its rejection of spirituality and its concomitant worship of reason and material things.Because the West had a tremendous fall in spirituality, Solzhenitsyn began to question, in order to get out the state that the West is in, who does man look up? During the time of the speech men were dominant in the sense of being superior to women, but if â€Å"lost† in sense of spirituality and begin to believe that modern ways and material things are more important than being God like. Is it actually true that man is everything and neither that nor anyone is superior to him? â€Å"We turned our backs upon the Spirit,† Mr. Solzhenitsyn proclaimed, â€Å"and embraced all that is material with excessive and unwarranted zeal,† (Pg. 4). Fruchtman stated, for the Slavophiles, the West was decadent primarily because it had adopted the worship of rationality, matter and form. Moreover, it relied too much on legalistic systems of thought and action. This particular statement reflects Solzhenitsyn outlook on one’s self; Solzhenitsyn supports this statement when he stated that only by the voluntary nurturing in ourselves of freely accepted and serene self-restraint can mankind rise above a world stream of materialism. (pg. 20-21) Solzhenitsyn infers that no one on earth has any way left but upward climbing to the next anthropological stage (Pg. 1). Anthropological is the study of humanity, social action between humans and cultural as well as religious preferences. Fruchtman goes on to say for both Mr. Solzhenitsyn and the Slavophiles, men spiritual capacities have become subverted by the overpowering influences of reason and legality. Solzhenitsyn, Fruchtman, and Huang share similar beliefs when referring to man and higher powers above man. To pattern after God means to be â€Å"God like† as Huang states while Fruchtman counters Solzhenitsyn by saying he is speaking from a Slavophiles point of view.The West, as Solzhenitsyn portrays it is one who now has a lack of spiritual belief. The West, they argued, had emphasized rationality, compulsion and above all legalistic institutions and material wellbeing. Each of these qualities was in conflict with man’s inherent, goodness and virtue, Fruchtman writes. This statement proves his thought on how Solzhenitsyn is continually speaking and analyzing from his own humanistic view. As Solzhenitsyn states, â€Å"It will demand from us a spiritual blaze† (pg. 21). He infers to the west as whole and not singling any particular individual out; to act as one mind body and soul, but in government form.Laws are set in place to help us not hinder as a result he entitles this particular section â€Å"Before the Turn†. Still the question lies is there no superior spirit above man? If so how can we be more like him, how can we incorporate that higher power in our everyday life and in our law and judicial systems? How can take eyes off the moral standards of man and out them on the mindset for man to pattern after â€Å"God like† ways?

MBA Admissions Essays

Essay # 1List one of your most significant professional or organizational accomplishments. Describe your precise role in this event and how it has helped to shape your management skills.I started out initially as a technical support representative for a Stage Software Inc. in 2003 for a period of six months while presently I am associated with McKing Consulting Corporation. However for a period of two years I was associated with SunTrust Bank, where I started out as a Staff Accountant level one and in a year’s time was promoted to the next level this was based on outstanding job performance and proposal.In addition during the initially stage I was one of the team members who was responsible for relocation and change of the accounting system of an acquired bank into SunTrust’s accounting system. (Listed as Significant Achievement in the Resume)In the beginning of my last year with the bank, SunTrust finance organization experienced some specific changes in various depart ments. This was done to realign its objectives to achieve strategic vision of the Bank. Consequently, my department’s operations were altered the Controllers to Finance operations. Prior to the changes the monthly financial closing constituted s cross-functional departments, — my department was also a part of this financial closing. Following were some of the problems which existed in the past:For each financial closing a significant challenge was that most of the time some of the more important processes which were crucial for month end close were missed or delayed.Communication between team members was either limited or non-existentThere was no system in place for a smooth flow of process.Understanding the need to restructure the month end process, I rose to the challenge by taking the idea of synchronizing the month end close. As I was not very familiar with the different processes, my inexperience was one of the major impediments. I succeeded in coming up with a ta sk plan to achieve the goals.Initially I set up a meeting with the related teams and managers who were involved to get familiar with the different month end actions that needed to be processed. From the information received at the meeting I was able to draft a month end schedule, which detailed a list of responsibilities and prioritized the orders. This was presented for productive criticisms and reaction. It was accepted by the teams and the managers and after its implementation there was a remarkable improvement in the month end process.This experience taught me the importance of working as a team and the importance of communication and coordination—a skill which is essential for business leaders and managers.   In addition the significance of organization and time management through prioritization to achieve objectives became very clear. This was my first experience as a leader as I initiated the change to create a more efficient set-up.The opportunity gave me an insight into the organizational processes. Although at a very basic level however this initiative showed me as a leader and strengthen my professional growth however it was not enough as there is a need to further strengthen and polish the skills I have and MBA degree would he helpful in these respects. I am confident that my MBA experience will provide me with ample opportunities to demonstrate my leadership skills and also learn from future leaders.Essay # 2Of Goizueta`s core values (courage, integrity, accountability, rigor, diversity, team, community), which value resonates most with you and why? 1 pageCourage is the something which I believe is a very important part of my personality and life.   Almost 8 years back when I left Nigeria leaving behind family and friends I was not sure what it would be like in the United States and the people and the environment was completely alien for me. However it was my determination and my courage which made me carry on in spite of all the advers ities. I was determined to be successful in my life and through perseverance and concerted effort I was able to assimilate in the new society.Initially it was very depressing as I was all alone and had no one to turn to and I realized that if I kept on pondering about it I would have to return. For this I formed a plan to succeed and I went started implementing it. I found a group of immigrants from Nigeria –this group provided a sense of support to carry on and eventually I was able to familiarize myself with the surroundings.Another thing I realized was to be financially independent. In Nigeria it was the parent’s responsibility to put children through school however here I had to get and education and support myself at the same time. With careful research, I realized that I would be able to secure financial aid and apply for scholarship to pay for school.The immigration experience has in reality strengthened my character different ways and this strength would be hel pful both for my career and my personal life. Though it may sound clichà ©d, but courage in the face of adversity inadvertently leads to success. Through this experience I also learned to value and be sensitive to other cultures and to enrich others with mine. I also discovered myself, a thing that would not have happened if I had not been exposed to this kind of experience. I was brave and I had a vision of my future, my resilience and optimism have paved the way for success.Essay # 3Of Goizueta`s core values (courage, integrity, accountability, rigor, diversity, team, community), which value resonates most with you and why? 1 pageCourage is the something which I believe is a very important part of my personality and life.   Almost 8 years back when I left Nigeria leaving behind family and friends I was not sure what it would be like in the United States and the people and the environment was completely alien for me. However it was my determination and my courage which made me c arry on in spite of all the adversities. I was determined to be successful in my life and through perseverance and concerted effort I was able to assimilate in the new society.Initially it was very depressing as I was all alone and had no one to turn to and I realized that if I kept on pondering about it I would have to return. For this I formed a plan to succeed and I went started implementing it. I found a group of immigrants from Nigeria –this group provided a sense of support to carry on and eventually I was able to familiarize myself with the surroundings.Another thing I realized was to be financially independent. In Nigeria it was the parent’s responsibility to put children through school however here I had to get and education and support myself at the same time. With careful research, I realized that I would be able to secure financial aid and apply for scholarship to pay for school.The immigration experience has in reality strengthened my character different w ays and this strength would be helpful both for my career and my personal life. Though it may sound clichà ©d, but courage in the face of adversity inadvertently leads to success. Through this experience I also learned to value and be sensitive to other cultures and to enrich others with mine. I also discovered myself, a thing that would not have happened if I had not been exposed to this kind of experience. I was brave and I had a vision of my future, my resilience and optimism have paved the way for success.Essay # 4What do you expect to accomplish in the Goizueta Business School MBA program? How will your participation in the MBA program fit in with your experiences and responsibilities as well as your short and long-term career goals?My life and the experiences since 1998 have been anything but normal. Emigrating from Nigeria was the first important landmark in my life. However, when I graduated from Georgia State University with a major in Accounting and Computer Information S ystems I realized that in fact my BBA Cum Laude was the first goal in procession goals I had lined up. After my graduation my past four years experience in different organizations mentioned in the resume have helped me gain the knowledge and experience I feel was necessary to start my MBA degree which I regard as the final step before seriously starting a career.Even as my professional experiences have facilitated me to develop strong skills in Accounting with the application of technology, I believe that at this point my career objective is to evolve into corporate finance by channeling my experience and developing further my knowledge of finance. I am convinced that an MBA with concentration in finance coupled with my professional familiarity will be an important asset creating a path to achieve my career goals.My short-term goal is to obtain a job related to Corporate Finance in a Fortune 500 company or to enter corporate finance practice of a consulting firm. This goal has been formed because of my experience working as a second level accountant in the Controllers’ division of SunTrust bank. My experience at SunTrust has given me the experience needed to understand the dynamics of finance and operational activities through the various accounting assignments I participated in.My long term objectives are strategic objectives based on the short term ones, because my ultimate goal — after gaining extensive knowledge and experience—is to form a financial advisory services firm that will cater to the needs of small to mid-size companies by helping organizations with raising capital, and ground-breaking financial planning solutions that will improve financial performance and value of business.An MBA from Emory University is necessary because will provide the additional knowledge base that are vital to fulfill the different short term and long term career goals.What particularly interests me is Gozuieta’s commitment to leadership develo pment through the plus programs and extracurricular activities which would give ample opportunity for me to further improve and enhance my leadership skills.   Also, Goizueta’s flexible program will not only help polish my skills in other fundamental functional business areas but will also allow me to modify my selection of courses according to detailed career interests.Most importantly, my visit to Emory University was both informative and inspirational I was able to obtain more information about the structure of the program. In addition, it gave me the chance to interact with alumni, current MBA students and a faculty member. I it was very beneficial listening to their first hand experiences and also learn about the close-knit community at Goizueta. This I believe is very significant as it allows the fostering of meaningful relationships. Overall, I was really impressed with the talent and diversity of the students this has certainly strengthened my resolve to be a part o f Goizueta business school. If given an opportunity I assure you that I would contribute through my hard work and experiences to the classroom and more importantly gain knowledge and an understanding of the corporate world.

Brown vs. Board of Education

Brown V. Board of Education In the early 1950’s, racial segregation in public schools was normal across America. Although all the schools in a given district were supposed to be equal, most black schools were far inferior to their white counterparts. In Topeka, Kansas, a black third-grader had to walk miles just to get to her all black elementary school. Her father, Oliver Brown, had tried to enroll her in a white elementary school but was refused. Brown went to McKinley Burnett, the head of Topeka's branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and asked for help. They were eager to help the Browns since it had long wanted to challenge segregation public schools. Other black parents joined Brown, and, in 1951, the NAACP requested an injunction that would forbid the segregation of Topeka's public schools. Brown and the NAACP appealed to the Supreme Court on October 1, 1951 and their case was combined with other cases that challenged school segregation in South Carolina, Virginia, and Delaware. On the other hand, the precedent of Plessy v. Ferguson allowed separate but equal school systems for blacks and whites, and no Supreme Court had overturned Plessy yet. The Supreme Court first heard the case on December 9, 1952, but failed to reach a decision. In the reengagement, heard from December 7-8, 1953, the Court requested that both sides discuss â€Å"the circumstances surrounding the adoption of the Fourteenth Amendment in 1868. † The rearguement shed very little additional light on the issue. The Court had to make its decision based not on whether or not the authors of the Fourteenth Amendment had desegregated schools in mind when they wrote the amendment in 1868, but based on whether or not desegregated schools deprived black children of equal protection of the law when the case was decided, in 1954. Eventually the Supreme Court struck down the â€Å"separate but equal† doctrine of Plessy for public education and ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, and required the desegregation of schools across America. Brown vs. Board of Education Brown V. Board of Education In the early 1950’s, racial segregation in public schools was normal across America. Although all the schools in a given district were supposed to be equal, most black schools were far inferior to their white counterparts. In Topeka, Kansas, a black third-grader had to walk miles just to get to her all black elementary school. Her father, Oliver Brown, had tried to enroll her in a white elementary school but was refused. Brown went to McKinley Burnett, the head of Topeka's branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and asked for help. They were eager to help the Browns since it had long wanted to challenge segregation public schools. Other black parents joined Brown, and, in 1951, the NAACP requested an injunction that would forbid the segregation of Topeka's public schools. Brown and the NAACP appealed to the Supreme Court on October 1, 1951 and their case was combined with other cases that challenged school segregation in South Carolina, Virginia, and Delaware. On the other hand, the precedent of Plessy v. Ferguson allowed separate but equal school systems for blacks and whites, and no Supreme Court had overturned Plessy yet. The Supreme Court first heard the case on December 9, 1952, but failed to reach a decision. In the reengagement, heard from December 7-8, 1953, the Court requested that both sides discuss â€Å"the circumstances surrounding the adoption of the Fourteenth Amendment in 1868. † The rearguement shed very little additional light on the issue. The Court had to make its decision based not on whether or not the authors of the Fourteenth Amendment had desegregated schools in mind when they wrote the amendment in 1868, but based on whether or not desegregated schools deprived black children of equal protection of the law when the case was decided, in 1954. Eventually the Supreme Court struck down the â€Å"separate but equal† doctrine of Plessy for public education and ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, and required the desegregation of schools across America. brown vs. board of education

Change plan Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Change plan - Assignment Example However, the facilitys corporate structure has come with various strategies to deal with highlighted challenges affecting the facility. As a result, the merged has emerged as one of the most prominent old care agency in Miami. Employee culture has been supportive of the development of the facility, which has contributed to the achievement of the most vital goals and objectives. The county and Federal governments have also been supportive through economic, social, and cultural contributions to the agency. Additionally, charity organizations have also played a major role in the financial maintenance of the facility. Consequently, the facility has been capable of holding more than a thousand old individuals in the society. Moreover, the community nursing has also been emphasized in the region whereby nurses can directly attend to the old in various communities. The organizational change is based on the Theory of change that is based on the achievements of the long-term goals of the facility (Cunliffe, 2008). The theory operates on the principles that a non-profit organization has an obligation to achieve the goals and objectives of an organization in both the short and long-term periods (Cunliffe, 2008). As a result, the long-term goals have been a motivational factor for a better future of the organization and society. Importantly, the society has been a major beneficiary of the facilitys organizational change. The county government has come up with a financing strategy that has helped reduce the cost of facilitys operational activities. Importantly, the facility has also been involved in assisting the non-well up towns in the society. As a result, the changes have been noted and publicized by international welfare organizational facilities that deal with taking care of the old. The changes that have occurred in the society have made a major improvement in the society. The facility has gathered information based on experiences of other old caring

Discrimination and Racism in America Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Discrimination and Racism in America - Essay Example One of the most popular theoretical explanations of discrimination is social differences existed in society and class struggle theory (antagonism), conflict theory and subcultural theory. The social conflict and class struggle theories states that society is based on social antagonism of two main social groups, men and women, workers and capitalists, blacks and whites (Wang 75). There is a smaller group who own and control the means, now chiefly machines, factories, and offices, that are used in the production of these goods. Also, disadvantageous groups in society often have an interest in change, and equal rights with minority. One of the most interested theories was proposed by Nathan Glazer (cited Wachtel 56). He argues that it has developed as a nation of minorities, each of which is accepted as a social entity but none of which has been accorded legal status or recognition. The popular picture of the country as composed of a large and monolithic majority, which tolerates some a nd opposes other minorities is therefore false. One of the main social condition which supports discrimination is social and class differences resulted in different education opportunities and different professional skills. The extensive number of charges of discrimination that continue to be filed by members of minority groups and women also argues strongly against assertion that affirmative-action programs are being implemented and that there is discrimination in education. The problem is that social location limits education opportunities from school and college years (Wang 30, 143) For this reason, many people belonging to low social classes (a lot of black people and minorities) lack knowledge and skills to enter the University or obtain a high-paid job. This condition is closely connected with historical development of the nation and high poverty rates among racial minorities and black population (Moses 121). Also, social roles of women as mother and wives limit their professional opportunities and career development. The case of women is different in many factual respects, but the principle is the same. Unfortunately, there is much fictitious "history" used to apply the "minority" concept to women. In the case of women, as in the case of minorities, their achievements were also made to look like the government's gift. Another social problem is that disadvantaged groups are defined by their color (black) or by their sex (female), although other groups are also shown to be underrepresented on the statistical graphs that correlate population quotas with achievements (Wang 43). Social and regional separation of disadvantageous groups is another social cause of discrimination. Many racial minorities, gay and lesbian people live as a separate community or neighborhood. Racism can be and must be eliminated in American society by changing personal values and national beliefs about minority groups and their social value. In a democratic society, "some seek to change the laws so that those who have been at a social and economic disadvantage may enjoy an enforceably favored status" (Wachtel 65). The problem is that affirmative action programs worsen the status and image of

Joan of Arc Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Joan of Arc - Essay Example It is in north eastern part of France. Joan of Arc went through several challenges at a young age. The major turning point in the life of Joan of Arc was being sworn in a prestigious army. During the year 1400, the Dauphin army men were regarded as respected and esteemed individuals within the society. Some of the beneficial factors of Joan of Arc, which sparked after joining army, were informative visions and growing military ideas. The real name of Joan of Arc was Jehanne Romee. Joan of Arc did not get the real name because being unsure of taking surname of mother and father. The voices of catholic saints have exposed Joan of Arc to be much stronger at a premature age. The opinion of the lady was swift aside after arrival at Vaucoluleurs. Joan was send back home. But courage and persistence allowed Joan to join Dauphin army at an early age. Joan predicted the location of sword and took army to Sainte-Catherine (Cunningham, 2002). The fortress of Saint Loup was captured on May 4. The French army was led by Joan of Arc. This astonishing capture of fortress revealed the mental strength and willpower of Joan. She was only 16 years of age during that point of time. After capturing first fortress, Joan of Arc marched to Saint Jean Le Blanc Fort. After arriving to the next city, Joan of Arc found out that all gates are barred and it is impossible task to get inside the city. But Joan and her entire army entered in to Orleans. The unthinkable task was made possible by Joan of Arc’s leadership process. Joan did not want to change their War strategy by ignoring the doors that were locked and barred. Joan was effective in the mission and entered in the direction, which was planned. Plans were supposed to be changed after looking at barred gates. But mental strength and hunger for success defines the heroicness of Joan. The withdrawal of English was more accelerated by capturing other two forts in Orleans. Joan m et Charles after

What is meant by use of force continuum, how can it be problematic, Essay

What is meant by use of force continuum, how can it be problematic, and what is the general structure and function of the dynamic resistance response model - Essay Example ce continuum helps both law enforcement officials and the people to know about the extent to which law provides permission to the authorities to use force as a mean to know the truth in interrogation process. Use of force continuum is different in different countries based on the differences in the functioning of criminal justice system. Use of force continuum may become problematic when the law enforcement officials cross the limits in using this law. Some officials misuse their power in the name of this law to torture the suspect. The dynamic resistance response model helps law enforcement officials to use force judiciously based on the circumstances. The official should not use force if the accused or the criminal is ready to obey his instructions. â€Å"Within the constitutional parameters established by the Court, most agencies require officers to adhere to more restrictive use of force policies, which, in fact, have not entirely eliminated the controversy surrounding officer citizen encounters as evidenced by continued allegations of misuse of force† (FBI Law enforcement bulletin, 2007, p.16). For example, drink driving is common in many of the countries. When the police stop such cars, some drivers may not come out automatically. The police can use force if the driver continues to stick with his decision to stay inside the car. To conclude, use of force continuum & dynamic resistance response model provide guidelines to the law enforcement officials and the people with respect to the use of force by the law enforcement officers in certain

Smart Grids. What is the Buzz on Smart Grids Essay

Smart Grids. What is the Buzz on Smart Grids - Essay Example This essay examines prominent elements related to smart grid technology. There are a variety of ways that smart grids differ from the current electricity infrastructure in the United States. Perhaps the most overarching distinguishing feature between the current electricity infrastructure and smart grids is that smart grids use digital technology. This technology carries with it a many more potentialities than the current system. Another of the major elements that differentiate smart grids from current electricity infrastructure is the nature of information collection. The current electricity infrastructure lacks the ability to determine the specific contexts in which consumers use energy; smart grids have the ability to record this information, allowing for the development of more efficient energy sources. The smart grid would also aid service providers in determining peak periods of demand. This would allow them to more accurately raise prices during high demand periods and reduce prices during low demand times. While this technology aids service providers it can also potentially aid consumers target their peak energy uses, allowing them to more efficiently use energy. Another prominent element that differentiates smart grids from current electricity infrastructure is the ability for power companies to more accurately and efficiently determine the areas and causes of blackouts. There are a number of management, organization, and technology issues that should be considered when developing a smart grid. In terms of technology, one of the prominent considerations is from the consumer end with in-home displays. In-home displays are a significant consideration as they would greatly aid consumers in reducing their energy consumption and allow them to program devices more efficiently. Another important technological consideration is the development of a means of implementing alternative energy. This has already occurred in the Boulder, Colorado SmartGridCity project where consumers are able to save solar power and implement it at a later time. In terms of management and organizational elements the major consideration must be given to coordinating the project in such a way as to communicate to interested parties that such technology is not only effective, but also worth the expense. Management must also consider public perception in terms of privacy concerns. It’s noted that consumer advocate groups have questioned the Orwellian nature of the in-home monitoring devices. It follows that management will need to quell these concerns and brand the smart grids in a positive light. While there are a number of potential challenges to the implementation of smart grid technology, it’s clear that the greatest challenge will be convincing stakeholders of the financial viability of their implementation. This process involves the service providers, but also consumers and consumer advocate groups. Consider that consumer advocates have already v owed to fight against smart grids if they raise customer rates, particularly for customers who are unable to use the Web portals or at-home systems for monitoring energy use. While smart grids are specific to energy infrastructure, it’s clear other areas of infrastructure could benefit from smart technology. While to an extent they have already been implemented in this context, it’s clear smart technologies could be highly effective in terms of traffic systems. In these contexts smart technology could be used for elements such as regulating flows of traffic through managing traffic lights. In addition to traffic light regulation smart technology

Carolingian Empire During The Middle Ages Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Carolingian Empire During The Middle Ages - Essay Example Accordingly, this brief essay will attempt to consider the overall effects that the Carolingian Empire had o formulating the basic understandings of culture and statehood that eventually developed into our modern interpretation of France as it has existed for the past 1200 years. One of the preeminent problems with pre-Middle Ages Europe was that it was a highly tribalized and lacked any type of cohesion or unity after the collapse of the Roman Empire. The power vacuum that was created caused a litany of tribes to stake out territorial claims throughout the continent and beyond and seek to raise a form of society and individualized culture from out of these constructs.1 It was not until Charlemagne came long that a sense of cohesion was begun to be implemented by right of conquest within the tribes that now constitute modern day France. The dawn of the Carolingian Empire was of paramount importance to the formulation of a modern day understanding of France due to the fact that Charle magne and his progenitors were able to incorporate the use of a common language and religion among the areas and tribes they conquered. As any student of history knows, these two factors alone are powerful forms of congealing a given area into the idea that nationhood/statehood. In this way, Charlemagne, as one of the first actions of the Carolingian Empire, sought to congeal his grip on the territories in and around modern day France. One of these ways was to ensure that the encroachment of the Muslim Moors was stopped at the Battle of Tours. This event in and of itself was a massive victory for the definition of Christianity and statehood of the Frankish peoples. With respect to the subsequent Carolingian Renaissance, as historians have called it, the name itself is a bit of misnomer due to the fact that the Carolingian Renaissance did not have the far reaching societal effects that later European renaissances would have. Rather, the Carolingian Renaissance was almost entirely pre dicated on a restoration of the glory of the Roman Empire.2 Although this in itself was not necessarily a bad end to strive towards, the effect of the renaissance on enlightening the populace, changing social mores/norms, and giving way to higher and greater interpretation of art was severely constricted.3 The artistic developments during the period include the literary development of the Vulgate Bible, the development of Romanesque art and the illuminated manuscripts that were indicative of Byzantine iconoclasts (such as â€Å"Christ in Majesty† from the Aberdeen Bestiary), and the further development of distinctly Pre-Romanesque architecture in Europe (such as The Palatine Chapel in Aachen).4 What these three things have in common is the fact that each of them is merely a development of something that had previously existed; rather than a new interpretation of an old theme. In this way, the actual nature of the â€Å"Carolingian Renaissance† has been called into ques tion as compared with the later fuller renaissances that took place within Europe. Rather than seeking to propagate new styles and new ideas, the Carolingian Renaissance seemed to point backwards to a time of European history that was long gone yet still remembered fondly. Although the Carolingian Empire was a key determinate in establishing the idea of modern statehood within Europe, one could argue that as compared to the artistic expression and sociological

Democratization efforts in the Gulf Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Democratization efforts in the Gulf - Essay Example However, more still needs to be done to ensure that the democratization process is effective. There is a need to establish reforms in the judiciary and allowing the civil society to perform their oversight duties. The limits of educational policy as an engine of social change and economic uplifting can be discussed from a number of perspectives. The Middle East education is inherently based on the religious teachings of Islam2. Anything contrary to this form of education is disregarded. The Middle East does not have educational policies that bring about social change in the region. Education is centred on religion, and this, hinders other tenets of education to be wished away as they are regarded as tools that undermine the Islamic faith3. It is important to note that certain elements of the education system in the Middle East are relevant to the needs of the people only to some

Personal statement for USC MAcc Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

For USC MAcc - Personal Statement Example Despite the suffering, I felt that it was my responsibility to ensure that everything run smoothly. I went to the business location and with the help of some few senior officers, I ensured that coordination between the various business organs was good enough to eliminate inconveniences. Having learnt that I was among the top management team of the business at the time, one employee altered some financial document for personal gain. Being not an expert in the field, I did not realize the alterations until one of the senior accountants informed me. This was very challenging to me and I decided not to be taken advantage of in future. This developed my passion for accounting and I decided to take my studies in this field in a reputable institution of higher learning that would prepare me to handle challenging problems. The institution of choice has been USC. In my undergraduate studies, I studied accounting with a major in finance, which has increased my knowledge in this field. This provides me with a good base in studying masters in accounting. The USC has been observed to be one of the best institutions in the field of business. This has given it credit not only to the residents of this country but also worldwide. It is the dream of every person to get access to the best information in his field of education in order to be able to conveniently handle different challenges that may arise, which makes USC a university of choice. In addition, it is evident that there have been numerous transformations in the business and accounting fields resulting from tremendous technological advancements. Considering this is necessary in ensuring that the students are well conversant with the use of technology. This avoids committing some mistakes as well as makes the business transaction be conducted smoothly. Moreover, one stands in a better positio n to offer support to other people who may not have sufficient knowledge in the field but may

Definition of Culture and Its Importance Essay Example for Free

Definition of Culture and Its Importance Essay Human beings are considered the highest form of animals, behaving passionately social as a group, using language and understanding, and doing teamwork and intergroup rivalry. Culture then relates to everything that humans have, think and do as a member of the social group. Both existent and make-believe, humans have stuff like tools, weapons, languages, laws, music, art, material resources, technologies and systems that when taken jointly will give details of the past and describes the present. On the other hand, when ideas, values, attitudes, beliefs and ideologies are taken as a group, help explains religious partiality, political directives, mores and extensive range of social associations. In addition, humans do or perform activities among specific group or society based on nationality, religion, ethnic boundaries and even occupation and academic, which later on collectively form the prescribed accepted behavior. (Holt, D. Wigginton, K. 2002). In 1997, culture was described by Geert Hofstede in his book, Cultures and Organizations as the â€Å"software of the mind†. While individuals all have the identical â€Å"hardware†, which is the human brain, their â€Å"software† or â€Å"programming† is rather diverse. It is an identical experience when interrelating with somebody from a dissimilar culture – their language, suppositions, body language and movement, morals, and other facets of their culture will not be logical when relocated to another’s orientation structure. There are three fundamental logical reasoning when it comes to culture, namely: 1. Superiority of experience in the fine arts and humanities; 2. A combined blueprint of human knowledge, trust, and manners that relies upon the aptitude for figurative thinking and social knowledge; and 3. The set of divided outlooks, principles, purposes, and practices that distinguishes an association, society or group. According to Holt and Wigginton (2002), culture is a concept in the field of anthropology that concerns with shared structure of attitudes, way of life, ownership, traits, tradition and morals that describes group actions, which can be observed in a family, ethnic group, a business organization or a society. Authority, leadership, work attitudes and ethical practices on the part of management are influenced by this shared structure. Workers also are influenced by cultural antecedents on how they recognize and understand quality performance, work responsibilities, their function in decision-making and attitude in following orders from superior, as well as insight of human rights. The daily demeanor of workers in terms of punctuality, following rules on safety standards and personal hygiene are also affected. Slight differences between any two or more cultural groups can be observed, which therefore requires sensitivity to understand cultural differences, especially in manners of proper handling of business transactions. This way, when difficulties are encounter they will be solved readily with positive results. Understanding Differences in Culture The basic requirements for human survival are standard, which means for people to live they need water, food, clothing, housing and security. However, scarcity of these necessities compels human to creatively expand manners of acquiring them in order to give solutions to these survival problems. For simple societies, economic and social behavior consists of uncomplicated activities like looking for and cooking food, crafting clothes, building houses and rearing children. On the other hand, for developed societies, roles go beyond work and domestic related actions and extend to production and distribution of goods and services in order to sustain their big areas of responsibilities. It is essential to know that differences in culture would mean that different cultures have a diversity of styles in looking at things, ways of dressing and expressing individuality and/or goodness. Education, social rank, religion, individuality, belief composition, precedent experience, warmth shown in the domicile, and a countless of other factors will influence an individual’s manners and mores. A good deal of dissimilarities in culture has something to do with foodstuff preparation, music, and what each culture considers good manners. There are really cultural and philosophy disparities and it is fine to have an appreciation about a civilizations way of life. Hofstede’s Model of Cultural Dimensions A Dutch researcher by the name of Geert Hofstede made a cross-cultural study of organizational behavior using managers from different countries to produce profile of cultural differences. This model is the most famous Hofstede’s Model composed of five dimensions namely power distance, individualism, uncertainty avoidance, masculinity and long term orientation, which gives a comparative evaluation of group attributes. Said dimensions when used jointly, provide management sensible outlook regarding contradicting values and prototypes of manners among countries and groups. Power distance as a dimension relates to the degree of human inequalities. Hierarchical position and authority are the main focuses of a culture with high power distance. Less dominant member of the society acknowledge just being subordinates, who should always follow those who are leading. In societies with high power distance as exemplified by Japan, formal authority comes from the hierarchy where employees hardly ever go against a chain of command or subject into scrutiny the decisions of top management. The reverse is true with societies like the United States, Australia and New Zealand with low power distance, where both higher-ups and subordinates coordinate their decisions with one another and authority is not a big deal. However, for societies like Great Britain, Israel and Canada in particular, though they refuse to accept parity in social level, still they value the right of each person’s accomplishment (Holt, D. Wigginton, K. , 2002). Individualism pertains to the degree of initiative in becoming independent against that of collective endeavor. Societies with high individualism placed importance on personal triumphs, advancement, escapades and self-sufficiency. This implies ignoring the extensive necessities of the society and making oneself and ones family the priority. Contradictory, culture with low degree of individualism supports family relationship, group synchronization, social order and devote to compromised ideas. Uncertainty avoidance (Holt, D. Wigginton, K. , 2002) is the degree of open-mindedness for uncertainty and ambiguity, particularly to man’s search for Truth. It means the feeling of contentment and discontentment in shapeless circumstances which are unusual, unknown and unexpected. For majority of the societies, their religious beliefs stand as their manner of knowing the Absolute Truth. Japanese culture for instance, typifies a society that avoids uncertainty by creating detailed laws and standards in consonance with the norms of the society. There are also societies with dual philosophical beliefs that they do not consider any Absolute Truth and so they accept uncertainty within their organizations. Canadians, as an example do not prioritize ceremonies and company rites unlike the Japanese. The degree of motivational behavior based on value systems that are depicted in terms of being masculine or feminine is another dimension in the Hofstede’s Model termed masculinity. The focus of the said model is not on biological perspectives; however, the behavior is portrayed using gender. In countries with high masculinity, like Japan, men work and hold top positions in organization, while women stay at home to perform household chores and nurture children. In other words, there are distinct roles that women and men do in society. The priorities of people living in societies with high masculinity are achievement, wealth and expansion. Working professionals spent much of their time in work related activities and seldom take vacations to relieve their stress. When confronted with problems, the manners of settling these conflicts are done aggressively. On the opposite, countries that score low in masculinity give significance to their family, relationships and quality of life. There is equality in terms of positions for both men and women which could be observed in all aspects of their lives. Negotiation for people in societies with low masculinity is the best way to resolve misunderstandings and disagreements. They are also fond of working in flexible hours to give way for more vacations and relaxation. The fifth and newest cultural dimension is the long term orientation, founded on the teaching of Confucius on the East. Countries with high long term orientation can be described as being persistent, thrifty, having a sense of shame and organizing and observing relationship by status. On the other hand, those cultures with short term orientation have personal control and firmness, shield ones â€Å"face†, value ritual and give back to greetings, favors, and gifts.

Dabhol power plant: Stakeholder management

Dabhol power plant: Stakeholder management Effective Stakeholder Management in a Project Environment Stakeholders are those individuals, corporations, public, and government bodies etc. which are directly affected by the outcome of a project. In recent times it has been seen in India that many projects have failed or delayed due to lack of proper stakeholder management. Some of the major projects which have failed or delayed are Dabhol Power Project, Tatas Nano Project in West Bengal, Reliance Dadri Project in UP and many more. These projects failed in the planning phase itself. In the Dabhol power project firstly the stakeholders were not identified in an efficient way and then communication various stakeholders was lacking. Stakeholder Management is a process which is continuous in nature and spans through the life cycle of the project. Stakeholders in a typical project company(special purpose vehicle ) can be discovered through various techniques like brainstorming, Delphi technique, etc and various other techniques included in this report. The next big thing in stakeholder manag ement is doing a stakeholder analysis through which we will be able to draw a mind map of the stake holder also we would be able to rank the stakeholder according to their influencing power on the project. Next we draw a communication plan for the stakeholders, this will include type of medium, frequency, format of communication. Communication has emerged as one of the major factor affecting a projects outcome, cost and time. The diagram below shows a general framework of stakeholder management: In this dissertation report we have taken a study of ultra mega power plant (UMPP), which are under construction and are in various stages of completion. Ultra mega power plants will have an installed capacity of 4000 MW. UMPP policy was unveiled by the Ministry of Power through Electricity Act, 2003. The government envisages power for all by 2012, which means an addition of 100000 MW to the installed capacity at the end of 10th plan. In the 10th plan India missed the targeted capacity addition by almost half of the total to be added. Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has been assigned the task of creating five special purpose vehicles (SPVs). Of the five sites identified initially for UMPP, four have been already awarded up till now. Objective To find a method of controlling time and cost over runs using a better stakeholders management techniques through the planning, implementation and closing stages of a UMPP project. Methodology The dissertation report is based on applied research. Various reports of international consultancies have been cited in this dissertation report. Data have been collected from infraline , Central Electricity Authority (CEA) websites. A detailed study has been done on new trends in stakeholder management. INDIAN POWER SECTOR To write pages and pages of theory on the power scenario in India would not be an effective way to communicate the current problems faced by this sector. The statistics given below can more effectively communicate the sense of urgency that this sector requires. A study conducted by the Manufactures Association for Information Technology (MAIT) and Emerson Network Power (India) reveals that in 2008-2009 power outages both scheduled and non-scheduled accounted for about Rs 43205 Crore losses to Indian Inc. This amount was Rs 22000 Crore in the year 2003. REGULATORY FRAMEWORK IN POWER SECTOR In India, control over the development of the power industry is shared between the Central and the State Governments. The Ministry of Power is the highest authority governing the power industry in India. The CEA, a statutory organization constituted under the Electricity Supply Act, is the technical branch of the Ministry of Power assisting in technical, financial and economic matters relating to the electricity industry. The CEA is responsible for giving concurrence to schemes involving capital expenditure beyond a certain limit as fixed by the government from time to time, and it is also responsible for the development of a sound, adequate and uniform power policy in relation to the control and utilization of national power resources. The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission constituted under the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act1998 is an independent statutory body with quasi-judicial powers. Its main functions include the formulation of policy and the framing of guideli nes with regard to electricity tariffs. Several states have set up State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) and others are in the process of setting them up. The SERCs are engaged in regulating the purchase, distribution, supply and utilization of electricity, tariff and charges payable, as well as the quality of service. State Governments have set up State Electricity Boards at the State level, which are responsible for ensuring that the supply, transmission and distribution of electricity in such states is done in the most economical and efficient manner. These State Electricity Boards are required to coordinate with power generating companies, as well as the government entities that control the relevant power grids. Some States have amalgamated their respective State Electricity Boards to form Regional Electricity Boards, to ensure that the electricity supply, transmission and distribution policies are consistently applied. Private sector companies operating in the electr icity supply, transmission and distribution industry report to the Ministry of Power, as well as their respective State Electricity Boards and their State Electricity Regulatory Commissions. Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPPs) There is a great difference between the supply and demand of electric power in India. According to CEA monthly report in January2010 the peak deficit was 12.2 % i.e. 112029 MW. A KPMG1 report sites that per capita consumption of electricity is 700 units in India, 1800 units in China and 15000 units in USA while the world average is 2300 units. Therefore to bridge this deficit and raise per capita consumption, the government came out with reforms through electricity act, 2003. Ultra Mega Power Projects are part of these reforms, in which power plants with an installed capacity of 4000 MW, with an estimated cost of Rs 16000 Crore, will be constructed across the country. The nodal agency for UMPP program will be Power Finance Corporation (PFC). Nine sites have been selected for construction of UMPP. Five sites are coastal sites, while four are pithead sites. PFC has set up separate Special Purpose Vehicles(SPVs) for each of the nine UMPPs identified so far as to act as authorized representatives of the procurers. The SPVs have been named after the name of the site. All the 9 SPVs are wholly owned subsidiary of Power Finance Corporation Limited. Akaltara Power Limited is renamed as Chhattisgarh Surguja Power Ltd (CSPL). The main features of the Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPP) are:- The UMPP would use Super Critical Technology with the view to achieve higher levels of fuel efficiency, which results in saving of fuel and lower green-house gas emissions. Flexibility in unit size subject to adoption of specified minimum supercritical parameters. Integrated power projects with dedicated captive coal blocks for pithead projects. Coastal Project to use imported coal. Role of Ministry of Power (MoP):- Coordination with Central Ministries/Agencies to make sure:- Coal Block allotment/coal Linkage Environment/Forest Clearances Water Linkages Required support from State Governments and their agencies Working out allocation of power to different states from UMPPs consultation with the states. Facilitating PPA and proper payment of security mechanism with State Governments/State Utilities. Monitoring the progress of shell companies with respect to predetermined timelines. Role of Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) Appointment of consultants to undertake preparation of Project Report, preparation of rapid Environment Impact Assessment. Appointment of Consultants for International Competitive Bidding (ICB), document preparation evaluation. To finalise RFQ/RFP documents in consultation with states / bidders. To carry out RFQ/RFP process and award of projects. Acquisition of land for the project. Obtaining coal blocks for pit-head projects. Getting clearances regarding allocation of water by the state Govt. for pit head locations. Approvals for use of sea water from Maritime Board/ other Govt. Agencies for coastal locations. Obtain clearances from state pollution control boards, initiate forest clearances etc. as required for the project and for the coal mines, followed by environment and forest clearances from the central government. Obtaining geological reports / other related data from CMPDI for the coal blocks. Tie up the off take/ sale of power. Role of States Rehabilitation Resettlement PlanLand Owners Give authorization to the PFC/SPV to carry out the bidding process on behalf of the distribution utilities. Facilitate signing of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) Ensure proper payment security mechanism with the distribution utilities. Sasan Power Ltd Sasan is situated in Singrauli district of Madhya Pradesh. Singrauli is the 50th district of the state, Madhya Pradesh. Singrauli is known as the Energy Capital of India. It has the 10 % of the total installed capacity of India. The district also has large deposits of coal in nearby coal fields. River Rihand has a dam on it known as Govind Vallabh Pant Sagar Dam. Thus Singrauli provides excellent conditions for thermal power generation. Sasan UMPP is a pit head-based thermal power project with an aggregate capacity of 3,960MW (6660 MW) using supercritical technology. The project also involves development of captive coal blocks, viz Moher, Moher-Amlohri Extension and Chhattrasal at the Singrauli coalfields to meet the coal requirements of the power project. *. Thus fuel risk is being managed by the SPV on its own. Therefore risk of fuel shortage is minimised, giving a positive impact on the project. The location of the project itself reduces many risks like availability of fuel and water. Both coal mines and a reservoir are available in the vicinity. On other hand the area is less densely populated thus problem of land acquisition automatically got resolved. The Bidding Process Sasan UMPP was awarded through a two stage competitive bidding process. Lanco infratech and Globeleq Singapore Pte Ltd ( a Singapore based firm) were declared winners after they quoted the lowest bid for the project of Rs 1.196 / Kw, in dec2006. In Feb2007 Globeleq Ltd, Bermuda, parent company of Globeleq Singapore, sold its Singapore business arm to Jindal Steel and Power Ltd and Lanco Infratechs, Mauritius based holding company. This move was challenged by the rival bidders in the court. The government declared the bid of Lanco Infratech ltd -Globeleq Singapore Pte Ltd. as invalid. A week later Reliance Energy submitted a fresh bid of Rs 1.19/ Kw. Consequently the project was awarded to a consortium Reliance Infra Ltd. this consortium consists of Reliance Infra Projects UK Ltd (RIPUL), an affiliate of REL Infra. Sasan Power Ltd. (SPL) had invited bids on behalf of state electricity boards/ electricity distribution companies/ state electricity utilities of Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, Uttaranchal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh on 31st Mar2006. Technical Requirement for the bidders:- Should have experience of developing projects ( not necessarily power projects) in the last 10 years whose aggregate capital cost must not be less than Rs. 3000 Crores. Out of these projects , the capital cost of at least one project should be equivalent to Rs. 500 Crores. For the purpose capital expenditure on the projects that have been completed at least 7 days before the RFQ submission date shall be considered. Lead member shall be the company having at least 26% stake in the Bidding Consortium. Financial Requirement for the bidders:- Internal resource generation equal to atleast Rs. 1200 Cores or equivalent US$ computed as cumulative internal resources generated during last five years business operations, networth of Rs. 1000 Crore or equivalent US$ based on any of the past three years annual accounts and annual turnover of Rs. 2400 Crores or equivalent US$ based on any of the past three years annual accounts. The financial requirements of each Member in Bidding Consortium shall be combined in proportion to the investment commitment by each of them. Enclosures with the bid proposal:- Covering Letter Joint Deed Agreement between Members in Bidding Consortium. Letter of consent from all Members in Bidding Consortium. Board Resolution. Initialling of all pages of Bid by authorized signatory. Executive Summary. Last five year annual Accounts of Bidding Company or each of the Member in case of a Bidding Consortium. Reliance Infra Ltd. Reliance Infra Ltd. is the flagship company of Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (ADAG). The company develops and operates power plants both domestically and internationally. The company on its own and through subsidiaries is currently developing 13 medium and large sized power projects with a combined planned installed capacity of 28,200 MW, one of the largest portfolios of power generation assets under development in India. 13 power projects are planned to be diverse in geographic location, fuel type, fuel source and off-take, and each project is planned to be strategically located near an available fuel supply or load center. The identified project sites are located in western India (12,220 MW), northern India (9,080 MW) and north-eastern India (2,900 MW) and southern India (4,000 MW). They include six coal-fired projects (14,620 MW) to be fueled by reserves from captive mines and supplies from India and abroad, two gas-fired projects (10,280 MW) to be fuelled primarily by reserves from the Krishna Godavari Basin (the KG Basin) off the east coast of India, and four hydroelectric projects (3,300 MW), three of them in Arunachal Pradesh and one in Uttarakhand. Reliance Power has acquired the two ultra mega power projects of 4,000 MW each at Sasan in Madhya Pradesh and Krishnapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. The 7,480 MW project to be located at Dadri in Uttar Pradesh is expected to be the largest gas-fired power project at a single location in the world. The power generated by these projects is to be sold under a combination of long-term and short-term PPAs to state-owned and private distribution companies and industrial consumers. Reliance Power limitedtoday has total generating capacity of 941 megawatts from five different plants located in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka and Goa, of which the Dahanu plant (Maharashtra) is the largest with 500 megawatts. Reliance Power is currently pursuing several gas, coal, wind and hydro-based power generation projects in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal with aggregate capacity of over 12,500 MW. These projects are at various stages of development. 5,600 MW Project (Phase I) at Dhirubhai Ambani Energy City (DAEC), Dadri in Uttar Pradesh 4,000 MW Power Project at Shahapur in Maharashtra 280 MW Urthing Sobla Hydro Power Project in Uttaranchal 700 MW Hydro Power Project at Tato II and 1,000 MW Hydro Power Project at Siyom, both in Arunachal Pradesh The 941 MW Generation capacity of the Reliance Power comes from five projects: Dahanu TPS the 2250 MW multi fuel based thermal power station at Dahanu near Mumbai. BSES Andhra Power Limited: The 220 MW combined cycle power plant at Samalkot in Andhra Pradesh. BSES Kerala Limited: The 165 MW combined cycle power station at Kochi, Kerala. Goa Power Station : The 48 MW naptha based combined cycle power plant at Goa Chitradurga wind farm: The 8 MW Wind Farm Project at Jogimatti in the district of Chitradurga in Karnataka. Reliance Infra Ltd is also in the distribution and the transmission business. Reliance is already maintains a distribution network in Mumbai (Maharashtra) and Delhi, with the name BSES (BOMBAY SUBURBAN ELECTRICITY SUPPLY). Its transmission business is with the business arm, Reliance Power Transmission Limited (RPTL). Chapter 3 STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT Stakeholder has specific interest in the project outcome or in the initial stages of project planning, implementation and closing. If the stakeholder interest is not managed efficiently the project may get delayed or it may fail. We can say that with stakeholder management we are actually managing various risk associated with the project. Thus for efficient risk management, the project manager should have sound knowledge about the stakeholders interests, power and influence, to achieve this, one has to identify and analyse the stakeholders. Almost any person or organization with an interest in a project can be termed a stakeholder. The type and interest of a stakeholder are of great importance to a project manager since they enable him or her to use these to the greatest benefit of the project. The process of listing, classifying and assessing the influence of these stakeholders is termed stakeholder analysis. Stakeholders can be divided into two main groups: Direct (or primary) stakeholder Indirect (or secondary) stakeholder Direct stakeholder This group is made up, as the name implies, of all those directly associated or involved in the planning, administration or execution of the project. These include the client, project sponsor, project manager, members of the project team, technical and financial services providers, internal or external consultants, material and equipment suppliers, site personnel, contractors and subcontractors as well as end users. In other words, people or organizations directly involved in all or some of the various phases of the project. Indirect stakeholders This group covers all those indirectly associated with the project such as internal managers of the organization and support staff not directly involved in the project including the HR department, accounts department, secretariat, senior management levels not directly responsible for the project, and last but not least the families of the project manager and team members. A sub-section of indirect stakeholders are those representing the regulatory authorities such as national and local government, public utilities, licensing and inspecting organizations, technical institutions, professional bodies, and personal interest groups such as stockholders, labour unions and pressure groups. Each of these groups can contain: Positive stakeholders: who support the aims and objectives of the project Negative stakeholders: who do not support the project and do not wish it to proceed. Direct stakeholders mainly consist of positive stakeholders as they are the ones concerned with the design and implementation of the project with the object of completing it within the specified parameters of time, cost and quality/performance. They therefore include the sponsor, project manager and the project design, construction/installation teams. This group could also have negative stakeholders such as employees of the end user, who would prefer to retain the existing facility because the new installation might result in relocation or even redundancy We can divide the stakeholders based on various project requirements. The stakeholders a project are: Government-Central-State Governments, Government Organisations, Regulator Finance-Banks, Financial Institutions Concessionaire-Project Manager, Project Team Members Consessionee-Government Organisations Technology-Suppliers, Technology owners Environment Government Ministry, International Watchdog Land-Land owners Water-Ministry of Water Resources Fuel-Coal Ministry Stakeholders in a Business A successful business first identifies its key stakeholders and identifies their needs. A company can accomplish its stakeholder goals only by managing and linking work processes. High-performance companies are increasingly focussing on the need to manage core business process such as new product development. They are reengineering the work flows and building cross functional teams responsible for each process. For a business the stakeholders may be as following: Importance of Stakeholders Management Powerful stakeholders can influence the project in a big way Powerful stakeholders can help the project in securing important resources. Experienced stakeholders can guide the project managers during tough times. Communicating with the stakeholders early and often can make the stakeholders understand the benefits of the outcome of the project. It leads to understanding the reactions of the stakeholders during the progress of the project and thus the project manager can do the needful changes if required in the project. Stakeholder Analysis process: Stakeholder Identification The first step in stakeholder analysis is the identification of the key stakeholders. When the project manager starts identifying project stakeholders , he should do an organised study by giving the projects geographic sphere of influence. Here consider not only the main project site, but also the related project facilities, like the road to the site, cumulative affect of the project outcome or unplanned but predictable developments. Using this type of analysis to determine the projects area of influence and finding out that who all may be affected in this manner. This process will reveal those stakeholders, who are directly influenced by the project, may be by use of land , or by the effect to the nearby environment or by the process of new job creation. One of the techniques used for stakeholder identification is impact zoning Impact Zoning @ By mapping the sphere of influence of different types of environmental and social impacts, the project company can begin to identify distinct groups by impact area, and from this prioritize stakeholders for consultation. Steps in Impact Zoning Draw a sketch map of the key design elements of the project, both on and off site, that may give rise to local environmental or social impacts (e.g., the project site; ancillary infrastructure such as roads, power lines, and canals; sources of air, water, and land pollution). Identify the large impact zones for each of the elements Next over lay , the large stakeholder groups, over the impact zones. Through consultation with relevant stakeholder representatives, verify which groups are potentially affected by which impacts. This exercise may be performed more efficiently by using aerial photographs. The other common technique of stakeholder identification is brainstorming Chapter 4 COMMUNICATION One of the largest contributing factors for project failure or delay is lack of proper communication with the stakeholders. When communication is limited to periodic reports stakeholders, can be in dark as to when the project begins to slip. It may slip to a point, from where it is very difficult to recover the project. The remedy is consistent, frequent and candid communication. The project manager uses plans, agreements and status reports to communicate with the stakeholders and manage their expectations. In addition, as with everything on a project, a solid plan improves the probability of success. Every project should have a communication plan, a written strategy for getting the right information to the right people at the right time. The stakeholders identified in the SOW and responsibility matrix are the audience for most project communication. Information management In todays world, where there are ample mediums for communication, there is no shortage of information but instead there is abundance of information, which the stakeholder is not able to handle in the right way. Data and Information Information is always tied to the purpose of the stakeholder. Information is based on data, which is useful only when it is organised in a meaningful manner. It is the responsibility of the project manager to provide information to the stakeholder in a manner which is useful to them. Information can be classified as i) Relevant Information ii) Used Information iii) Cassandra Information. Therefore it is important to feed the right amount of information which can be used by the stakeholders. Otherwise it would lead to increased spending, increased confusion and consequently time delay in project completion. Guidelines to make a communication plan Use precise short status reports: obese reports are overwhelming for a busy audience. Determine what should go into the status report, by interviewing the stakeholders what they want. Different stakeholders may want reports on different aspects of the project. Have an escalation procedure: these are the procedure to elevate problem to senior management. Make the information timely: Executive sponsors may want reports less frequently than your immediate manager. Make sure regular status meetings are included in the plan: Many stakeholders may require meetings on project status as and when needed, i.e. only when there is big event or problem. By including schedule meetings in the communication plan, customers and higher level managers are agreeing to be more informed about the project- which avoids unpleasant surprises in the project. Be consistent with other projects: As much as possible, your project documentation should have the same look and content as other projects in your organisation. If there are standards, use them. If not, find good examples from good examples from other projects which have same stakeholders. Use multiple channels of communication: websites, newsletters, and project bulletin boards can be used to post information of interest to all stakeholders. These communication mediums complement status reports because they can provide a wider scope of information. Finally, realize what you say in the written report may come across differently when you present it verbally, so consciously include face to face meetings in your communication plan. Communication Medium Choosing the right kind of medium for the right kind of stakeholders is again an area to be looked into. A communication medium should have the following characteristic: It should be easily accessible. It should be fast. It should be recoverable later at anytime It should be cost effective. It should be easy to use. There are many communication mediums available today. It depends on the project manager to use which kind of medium to communicate to a particular stakeholder. Below there is alist of mediums available: E-mail: the use of electronic mail continues to be extensive. Some contend that email is an overused (and sometimes inappropriately used) medium. It is certainly convenient to use for most of the people. And it reaches widely dispersed and distant recipients quickly, although there is no guarantee that the recipient will read the message immediately. It automatically provides the record for the sender and the receiver. Also as it is with other written messages, email messages are also subject to misinterpretation. With the ease, by which email messages can be forwarded, one should be careful about what one write in the email. Overall email is a convenient medium of communication. Telephone: Calling someone on the telephone can be an immediate interactive method of communication, without creating a permanent, written record. Phone conversation allows you to hear voice inflections, although obviously you cannot view body language. Although an upbeat phone call is considered warmer than a written note, it doesnt have the same effect as a personal visit or any other face-to-face interaction. Unanticipated phone calls are subject to the same shortcomings or advantages of impromptu communications. Voice Mail: When people dont answer their phone, you can often rely on voice mail. This may create issues for you, if youre not careful. When you place a call, youre often expecting a dialogue. If youre forced to use voice mail, you must immediately convert your message to a monologue, which doesnt always come out sounding as youd like it: the message can become awkward or confusing for the recipient. And, as with e-mail, theres no guarantee that the message will be received in a timely manner. Handwritten Notes: Probably the most informal of the all communication modes are the handwritten notes. Short hand written notes are an excellent way to provide positive recognition. Although they take very little effort, they convey the personal touch much more than the verbal approaches or formal memos or emails. The drawback of these kind of notes is that they are geographically limited. Printed and Mailed Memos and letters: with the advent of email, memos and letters are now generally reserved for more formal or official communication. They are slow and one sided, but good when formal signatures are required and a permanent record is desired. Hence, printed, mailed memos and letters are still used in contractual transactions. Informal Visits: A visit is simply an informal and personal way to maintain a communication link with a stakeholder. Although you may not be carrying any important message, an informal visit can often lead to a more valuable or productive communication session than you might have expected from a formal communication. Informal visits are also appropriate when confidential, personal, or sensitive subjects need to be covered. Formal Presentations: Formal Presentations are often used in situations where the distribution of information may be enhanced by an explanation or the information is too complex for written documentation. Formal presentations are often done in a group setting, thus ensuring that everyone gets the same level of understanding. They allow for impressive graphical displays of information, but often require a lot of preparation. Theyre effective when youre trying to promote understanding, enlist support, or expedite a decision (e.g., management approval to proceed). However, formal presentations can be challenging or risky, as you rarely have control over the entire session. And, if poorly done, they may do more harm than good. Communication through Project Management Software: This method of communication is unique. This is a new f When Harry Met Sally: Analysis of Communication When Harry Met Sally: Analysis of Communication When Harry Met Sally and Children of a Lesser God When Harry Met Sally†¦ (1989) is a romantic comedy that breaks out of the norm of the genre with some very real messages about interpersonal communication between both genders and how we handle different situations differently. According to IMDB the plot of the movie goes: in 1977, Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) graduate from the University of Chicago and share the drive to New York City, where Sally is beginning journalism school and Harry is starting a career. Harry is dating a friend of Sallys, Amanda (Michelle Nicastro). During the drive, they discuss their differing ideas about relationships between men and women. Harry says that Men and women cant be friends because the sex part always gets in the way. Sally disagrees, claiming that men and women can be strictly friends without sex. During a stop in a diner, Sally is angered when Harry tells her she is attractive; she accuses him of making a pass at her. In New York, they part on unfriendly terms . Five years later, Harry and Sally find themselves on the same flight. Sally has just started dating a man named Joe (Steven Ford) who is a neighbor of Harrys and Harry is engaged to a woman named Helen, which surprises Sally. Harry suggests they become friends, forcing him to qualify his previous rule about the impossibility of male-female friendships. Despite Harrys suggestions of exceptions to that rule, they separate, concluding that they will not be friends. Harry and Sally run into each other again in a bookstore five years later. They have coffee and talk about their previous relationships; Sally and Joe broke up because she wanted a family and he did not want to marry, and Harrys relationship ended when Helen fell in love with another man. They take a walk and decide to be friends. They have late-night phone conversations, go to dinner, and spend time together. Their dating experiences with others continue to inform their differing approaches to relationships and sex. During a New Years Eve party, Harry and Sally find themselves attracted to each other. Though they remain friends, they set each other up with their respective best friends, Marie (Carrie Fisher) and Jess (Bruno Kirby). When the four go to a restaurant, Marie and Jess hit it off; they later become engaged. One night, over the phone, Sally tearfully tells Harry that her ex is getting married. He rushes to her apartment to comfort her, and they unexpectedly have sex, resulting in an awkward moment the next morning as Harry leaves in a state of distress. This creates tension in their relationship. Their friendship cools for three weeks until the two have a heated argument during Jess and Maries wedding dinner. Following this fight, Harry repeatedly attempts to mend his friendship with Sally, but she feels that they cannot be friends after what happened. At a New Years Eve party that year, Sally feels alone without Harry by her side. Harry spends New Years alone, walking around the city. As Sally decides to leave the party early, Harry appears and declares his love for her. At first, she argues that the only reason he is there is because he is lonely, but he disagrees and lists the many things he realized he loves about her. They make up and kiss and marry three months later. Harry and Sally communicate in very different ways which is evident from the beginning of their journey to New York. Right from the beginning of their journey, Harry and Sally start to try and get to know each other on their long drive. Sally is obviously a more positive, upbeat and open individual. She maintains this character throughout most of the film during her communications with her friends and with Harry.   Her openness with others is very in line with how we view feminine communication. Harry, on the other hand, comes across more like a typical male. He is more closed off, seems detached when he talks about things that should be more emotional, and tries to make light when conversations turn more serious.   He also focuses a lot on the more sexual aspect of his relationships than in really developing emotional attachments. Sally thinks of Harry as rude and insensitive while Harry thinks she is obsessive and very naive. When they try to talk to each other, he makes just a bout everything into a debate, doing report talk instead of rapport talk. He always has to have the last word and isnt afraid to crack jokes and hardly ask questions. After bumping into his ex wife, Harry gets frustrated and yells about the difficulties of divorce while at Jess and Maries apartment. He then leaves the apartment, and Sally has to approach him to talk about it. When Sally learns that her ex boyfriend is getting married, she reacts with sadness instead of anger and calls Harry to talk about it. Differences can also be seen after Harry and Sally sleep together. The morning after, Sally is happy and approachable while Harry is uncomfortable and distant. This is because usually for women, intimacy leads to sex and for men, sex leads to intimacy. As the movie goes on, the two start to become friends after each little meet up they have and they no longer resent each other like they did all those years ago. Harry opens up about Helen while Sally keeps the details about Joe to herself until the very end. Their communication skills cross due to Harry and Sally both talking to each other on the phone before going to bed. They even do activities together such as shopping or eating out together. By the end of the film, Harry is more descriptive when he talks to Sally such as why he enjoys being with and around her. Interpersonal communication is seen throughout this film which is defined as interacting with others over the phone and face-to-face to build a relationship. Harry and Sally absolutely experience a relationship of this type. Harry and Sally really start exchanging feelings and personal things to each other after their first get together. Sally learns about Helen and Harry about Joe. They connect and decide to be friends and hang out and talk more often. They try to help each other get dates which leads to the double date with Jess and Marie. They spend a lot of time going out to eat, shopping together, and talking on the phone. They care about how the other is feeling and desire to keep the other happy. Their relationship became one of interpersonal communication after they learned of each others recent heartbreak. They were both going through the same thing and wanted to spend more time with someone they could relate with. 3. Does S have a need to disclose herself in early confrontations with H? Is this appropriate/inappropriate for the relationship? Is this just a style of communicating? Is it gender based? Explain. I believe that Sally does feel the need to disclose herself during her early encounters with Harry. She seems easily goaded into divulging intimate details about her life. I dont think that it was necessarily appropriate or not, just her reaction to Harrys behavior and communication style. Perhaps it speaks of the feminine pressure to please others with whom we communicate with Sally feels a need to disclose herself in early confrontations with Harry because he is making assumptions about her. When he says that she hasnt had good sex yet she feels a need to tell him that she has had plenty of good sex. This is inappropriate for the relationship because they have just met each other and Harry is dating Sallys friend. I think this style of communicating is gender based because men tend to disclose less in relationships, so the conversation is focused mostly on Sallys life. Since Harry and Sallys first meeting was off to say the least, the two seemed very incompatible at the very beginning. Harry seemed very rude and blunt when asking such personal questions while Sally was very naive and kept to herself about such personal questions such as Harry asking her about having lots of good sex. With their two personalities clashing at almost all times, it was hard to hold a conversation that didnt end up as a debate or small argument. Hence when Harry told Sally that she was good looking. To Sally it was inappropriate because Harry was dating one of her friends at that time. I feel it was harmless to say the least, but I can understand both sides and why Sally didnt want him to say that she was attractive. Especially when Harry keeps insisting that a man and a woman cant be friends. Which is another reason why I think the two of them always seemed to debate and argue. So Harry could keep his point. CLG 1. From their very first meeting, there was obvious dialectical tension between Sarah and James. She being a former deaf student and James being a transferred teacher to help teach deaf students to speak. Since Sarah had a tough time growing up with her sisters friends making fun of her, she was afraid to speak and decided that she would surround herself in her own little world of silence. If no one could communicate with her through her world, she wouldnt make an effort to do the same. She was completely happy with this world she created herselfuntil she met James. He was determined to get to know her, intrigued immediately by her vow of silence and the way she refused to let anyone get close to her. Including her mother he later finds out. They agree to try and get to know one another, both seeming interested in each others world. After simply their first dance together, you can see an obvious longing in the way Sarah seems to melt in Jamess embrace. Her happiness in her silence is a lie. Though shes still afraid of the unknown world James is providing for her. When he suggests she move in and let him take care of her, she panics; her deafness being her own personal shield to the outside world. Sarah even says that no one can understand her when James asks what she can hear. In the end, they agree to meet in the middle, not having a complete world of silence or vocally speaking. This dialectical tension connecting them in the end. 2. The pool for Sarah is her own personal haven. Underwater, youre completely submerged and cant hear a thing. Also, considering she swam naked, she is completely exposed and comfortable. She feels one with the pool because in the water, you dont have to speak. Underwater, everything is still. Its that silence she craves such as her job as a janitor. Sarah feels safe and herself in the pool. So when James falls into the pool after her, he enters her domain. That was her way of seeing he actually cares about her; that he would enter her safe haven, fully clothed, just to be with her and understand her sense of ease and stillness she loves so much. James also enters the pool again during their separation by himself, staying under the water and even reaching out towards where Sarah was before. The pool is the way James can connect with how Sarah hears and sees the world. 3. The social exchange theory states why people are drawn to each other through substantial benefits. For example, when James first sees Sarah, he is drawn in by her stubbornness and not to mention her beauty. He wants to teach her to speak and is so desperate in anyway to get her to conform. He makes a promise that she doesnt have to ever speak, but breaks it during a heated moment. He apologizes for it and I think that stayed with Sarah for a while. She kept backing away while he kept pressing forward. Eventually, during an argument Sarah finally speaks, letting him hear how awful she sounds when shes screaming that shes a freak before running out on him. Their relationship is very back and forth, fitting the social exchange theory to a T. 4. The social penetration theory is quite obvious the entirety of the film. Right from the get go, Sarah makes it almost impossible for James to even hold a conversation with him; she constantly walks away, sits when he stands up, and outright ignores him. When they finally start to talk its very basic. They talk about school, work, etc. They dont talk about deeper topics until much later. After James meets Sarahs mother and talks about her past, theres a breakthrough. Sarah finally opens up a little to let him know about why she never speaks. They However by the end of the film, they both agree they need to still be their separate selves but meet somewhere in the middle. She admits that she doesnt want to be without him and that she even loves him. And thats a huge step for Sarah. The uncertainty reduction states that each person in a relationship wants and needs certainty. James gives Sarah that when he makes a promise that he wont ask her to speak. However, as I stated before, he asks her to say his name in a heated moment and breaks that certainty for Sarah. Lastly, the existential theory takes place throughout the entirety of the film from Sarahs perspective. She had grown up without anyone listening to her or even trying to understand her. She was made fun of for trying to be normal as a child by trying to talk. That scared her. The fact James keeps reminding her that hes there and wants to be with her and take care of her gives her the opportunity to finally open up to a new world. One that isnt so silent but one thats also not too loud. 1) Discuss the dialectical tension of autonomy and connection in James and Sarahs relationship? There is a lot of tension of autonomy and connection in Sarah and James relationship. Sarah doesnt have a fulfilling life of her own upon meeting James. She has not reached her potential and is working as a janitor at the school she has attended since the age of 5. James has done many things to build his career, impressing the head of the school with his resume during his job interview at the beginning of the film. This causes problems in their relationship because James wants to provide for Sarah (he gets her to quit her job and move in with him) but also wants her to be able to provide for herself (he wants her to learn to speak so she can get along in life). Sarah wants to provide for herself, but fears that she cant, saying that she is not trained for any job that will bring her fulfillment and security. Towards the end of the film, Sarah starts a new job and intends to go to college with her earnings so that she can reach her full potential. Only then, when they can both provide for themselves separately, will they reach a healthy autonomy and connection. 2) What does the pool represent for Sarah? I think the pool represents connection. When James asks Sarah what her experience of sound is like, she answers by saying that no one has been inside her head she could answer his question, but that doesnt mean he will understand. Underwater is somewhere where that question doesnt matter. It is where James can have a shared sensory experience with Sarah. At the end of the film, the couple agree to find a place to connect that is between sound and silence, and the pool was the place where that first happened. 3) Now that you have read ch 9, what about this Social exchange theory? Do Sarah and James fit the theory? Explain. The social exchange theory proposes that relationships are based on exchanges of give and take made to maximize benefits and minimize detriments. I think Sarah and James fit this theory. James is drawn to Sarah because she is unique, beautiful, and someone he sees as needing his help. James is a teacher, so he gets fulfillment from helping others. Sarah is drawn to James because he accepts her and can provide security for her. She quits her job and moves in with him so that they can try to have the traditional life he wants. They both experience give and take in the relationship, but because Sarah has not yet reached her full potential in life, the exchanges do not seem balanced. At the end of the film, when James lets go of trying to help Sarah and she chooses her own path in life, the relationship begins a new course of equilibrium. 4) Discuss how Social Penetration theory, uncertainty reduction, and existential theory is evident in the movie (look in the Baxter article). In the Social Penetration Theory, people must share some of themselves for a relationship to grow while keeping some of themselves separate or the relationship will deteriorate. This is evident in the film after Sarah and James begin living together, because they start to lose their individuality. Sarah leaves a party she is enjoying because James is bored. James does not listen to music anymore because Sarah cannot enjoy it. At the end of the film, Sarah states that they must learn to be separate but equal. In the Uncertainty Reduction Theory, people have an equal desire for predictability and novelty in relationships. In the film, Sarah wants predictability. She lives at the same school she has for almost her entire life, knowing that the staff understand her ways and will not try to change her. When James arrives, he tries to get her to break down her walls and learn to speak. The Existential Theory states that a persons desire to be open with others is balanced with a desire for privacy. Sarah willingly tells James about her sexual encounters quickly after they meet, but she never wants to speak in front of him, even after they have become very close. 1. After watching the movie, it is clear there are many sources of tension on Sarah and James relationship. The couple grows close intimately, but they are separated in many ways, some more obvious than others. The first and most obvious factor keeping the couple apart is speech. Sara cannot speak, and while they are able to communicate through sign, she refuses to even attempt to read lips or produce noise. James says he is okay with this, but once or twice he begs her to try to make noise and say his name, which upsets Sarah so much it starts the end of their relationship. Sarah also has some issues of her own which are keeping the couple apart. Her fear of getting hurt like she did when she was younger have made her cold and angry, and it takes James a long time to even have a real conversation with her. When James finally does convince Sarah to go to dinner, and agrees and while dancing, she shows a tender side that lets James know she craves human connection. His persistant ques tions about her past and why she acts the way she does, why she refuses to admit she has been hurt, why she is afraid to speak coupled with Sarahs complex and silent demenour are enough to break the couple apart. Towards the end of the movie, Sarah admits she misses him, and the two agree to try again and come to a middle ground between silence and speech. 2. In my opinion, for Sarah, the pool represents solitude and equality. She can be totally by herself, and not have to worry about talking to anyone. Being submerged underwater is silent for anyone, not just her. For a moment, she can feel equal to everyone else. It is the one place where she is not being asked to speak, not being spoken to, and not missing out on noise. Anyone who goes underwater will hear silence, and I would imagine it is comforting to her to know she is the same as anyone else, even if just for a moment. The pool is her escape. 3. Our book defines the social exchange theory as being drawn to those who are able to offer benefits to you without asking for much in return. This is an interesting idea, and while I think it can be applied to most relationships, I do not think James and Sarah fit in this theory. Sarah and James do not have much in common, and neither has anything very huge or substantial to offer (no great deal of money, no great power, no great control, etc). James does tell Sarah she is the most beautiful and mysterious girl he has ever met, and Sarah tells James he is the nicest man she has ever met. They do offer each-other the benefit of compassion, love and companionship. But their relationship is far from perfect. James asks a lot from Sarah. He asks her personal questions she is not comfortable with answering and he asks her to let him help her speak, which she makes very clear is something she never intends to do. Sarah tries James patience, saying he is only with her because he wants to fix her and just wants to be with a blind girl just to say he has like every other hearing man. Their relationship is strained, and their expectations for eachother are strong enough to end the relationship. I do not think the social exchange theory applies to them. 4. The certainty reduction theory says that people always look for what they know what is certain in themselves and others. Predictibility is favored in relationships. This is true especially for Sarah. She admits she has never let anyone in, and says she has never been hurt by anyone. It is normal for her to have a wall up, and that is what is comfortable for her. She is constantly going back behind the wall and shutting down and shutting people out, like she did with James. Sarah does not like change; she would rather be in her silent world that she has known for her entire life. James tries to threaten that silence, and she reacts with anger and hostility. The social penetration theory can definitely be seen in their relationship. When Sarah and James first began to talk, they talked about school, mopping, and jobs. Sarah made it difficult for James to talk about anything deep, and she often abruptly ended conversations. As they got closer and their relationship deepened, they t alked about deeper topics, such as Sarahs dark past and why she pushes people away. Sarah admits she loves James and needs him and feels lonely without him, which is a huge break through since she told him earlier she never lets anyone in.