The Extent to Which Developmental Psychology Has Been Able to Contribute to Improving Children’s Lives Essay Example for Free

The Extent to Which Developmental Psychology Has Been Able to Contribute to Improving Children’s Lives Essay This essay will explore how developmental psychology has improved the lives of children diagnosed with specific learning difficulties (SpLD). It will explore how these improvements have been made from diagnosis to assessments, consequences to intervention. Dyslexia refers to a specific difficulty in learning to read and write. However this is not the only difficulty that children with dyslexia experience and there are variations of their symptoms. These problems appear to stem from fundamental difficulties in the rapid processing and sequencing of phonological information in short term memory. These children also have difficulties with associations with letters and their sounds. Learning their left from right also is difficult. In the 1970s-80s it was thought Dyslexia was a label given to rich parents underachieving children as an excuse for their poor performance. Contempory definitions of dyslexia combine a discrepancy approach with definition indicators. The discrepancy approach is key in how educational psychologists identify dyslexia. Dyspraxia is used to describe the symptoms of people who experience problems in oorganising their movements and may have problems with thought, perception and language. Dyspraxia is also known as developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD). Dyspraxia can make written work for children in school very difficult as it has a huge impact on the visual field with writing. Alongside this the mental affects a child may experience in school from being bullied for their condition may then effect their performance in the classroom. Due to late start in researching of DCD, intervention is not often attempted until a child reaches school age. Cormorbidity, where two disorders or illnesses occur in the same peron simultaneously or sequentially, often happens with dyslexia or dyspraxia. Kaplan (2001) found that children with reading difficulties were 51. 6% more likely to have another developmental difficulty. If all these conditions have a common cause then cormorbidity would not be present. Kaplin (2001) states that a combintation of learning difficulties may be a result of atypical brain development (ABD). It is possible that two people with the same atypical brain development may present with differing symptoms as a result of the influence of environmental factors. As a result it is difficult to identify a single biological cause for SpLD. Developmental psychologists have been able to identify a range of factors that appear to contribute to the causes of SpLDs. Heritability may be another factor which influences the presentation of SpLDs. Dyslexia and dyspraxia both appear to have a familial form where parents and siblings also present with these conditions. The extent of heritability has been highlighted through the use of twin studies; both monozygotic and dizygotic. Stevenson (1999) found that heritability was between 46 and 74 per cent chance, which highlights there is some influence from environment as well as genetic factors. Further research has highlighted how some genes on the chromosome are associated with phonological processing and other genes on other chromosomes are associated with reading. Assessments are a key way developmental psychologists are able to further understand children with SpLD, and can then identify and conclude the severity of the SpLD. It is through assessment that developmental psychologists can start to do the most help with improving childrens lives. By assessing them for their SpLD the psychologist can start to make way for the child to gain extra support in school and at home. Assessments for dyslexia such as those which use the discrepancy model assume that it is valid, which is not necessarily the case as there is evidence that children with very different IQ scores can achieve similar reading scores. The assessment is only a snap shot of how the child performed at that time on that particular day. Developmental psychologists have put forward a new method of assessment which would highlight the childs severe and persistent problems when learning to read and write. Such an assessment would assist the child in finding coping stratergies and different ways of learning in order for them to excel as well as a child without such a form of SpLD, it can also speed up intervention, which could allow the child to be assisted earlier on in their school career. When assessing dyspraxia psychologists it can be difficult to identify as the signs of dyspraxia overlap with other SpLD’s. Dyspraxia is often assessed and treated by medical personnel rather than psychologists as with dyslexia, despite signs and causes impacting similarly on the child education and learning abilities. It is usually due to the social impact which dyspraxia has on the child which dyslexia does not which requires medical attention. A large number of professionals are involved in aiding children with dyspraxia including educational psychologists who assess the motor and perceptual development skills such as sequencing and organisation. A DVMI or movement ABC test will be used in order to identify pecific motor skills. The consequences of living with a SpLD for a child can range from social exclusion to self esteem issues. Riddick (1996) found that children with SpLDs often experienced social exclusion; they felt excluded from activities because of their difficulties with reading and writing. Riddick also found that children who were had dyslexia were more likely to befriend other dyslexics which can aid social inclusion. Qualitative and quantitative studies have suggested that people with SpLDs experience emotional and educational consequences. Many children with a SpLD experience soxial exclusion, the self exteem of children with SpLDs is low especially with respect to academic self concept. Children with SpLDs are over represented in statistics on children with depression although the degree of prevelance is not clear. Many children with SpLDs experience reduced academic motivation. Developmental psychologists design and evaluate interventions which can aim to improve the behavioural symptoms of SpLDs. Although intervention often occurs after identification, early intervention in the case of children ‘at risk’ of SpLD is the best approach. School based interventions that aim to improve literacy attainment suggests that intervention needs to be highly personalised and structured if it is to be affective. In order to maximise the long term impact of intervention it is suggested that programmes also need to be intensive and preventative. Given the cost of implications of personalised tuition in the classroom psychologists are evaluating the potential of computers to act as teaching assistants to support children with learning difficulties.

What Is Spiritual Formation Religion Essay

What Is Spiritual Formation Religion Essay When asking the question, what is spiritual formation, there can be great difficulty in recognizing the specific area of focus. This would be due to the great amount of variety within the sphere of such a topic regarding the presuppositions many people can bring to it. However there is a consistent undercurrent that ties the definitions together into a relative coherent understanding. According to Dallas Willard, spiritual formation is the process where one moves and is moved from self-worship to Christ-centered self-denial as a general condition of life in Gods present and eternal kingdom.  [1]  In this, there is a more detailed analysis in describing its meaning. Spiritual formation begins with God and the relationship with him and fellow brethren. It is by virtue of the Holy Spirits work in regeneration and conforming the believer into the image of Christ through his indwelling, guiding, gifting, filling, and empowering those saved for Gods glory. The foundation of such a form ation is found through the Scripture as the only and primary source of all truth. The responsibility of the Christian is a relentless pursuit in being Christ-like in all facets of life through a new nature. Such formation is the fruit of what one has already become, an adopted child of God, and not works alone to achieve an imaginary level of spiritual attainment. The methodology of such an endeavor is not prescribed as a checklist for every believer, but rather differentiates for each person as God sees fit for them. Biblical Instruction As stated in the introduction there is a number of reference points pertaining to Biblical instruction regarding spiritual formation. Although such terminology is not specifically found in every instance, the idea in what it represents is plentiful. The primary area many refer to is the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. With this area of Scripture, the results are listed from leading a life under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It would be considered a measure of progress in some ways to see how one is coming through the sanctification process. It should be noted, however, that there would be an ebb and flow to such a device in that some seasons may be more fruitful in patience and love as opposed joy and peace introspectively. In order to attain such fruits however, one must be diligent to know the One in whom he is following. A thorough study of His attributes that which makes up His character, is imperative in attaining any growth whatsoever. Through such knowledge is a child of God to begin the process in a more fruitful way than foregoing it. Without this concrete foundation, much of the growth will be experience alone, which is not biblical. Knowing who Christ is through his attributes is the only way one can attain the spiritual growth as guided by the Holy Spirit. From this one should then go to the Sermon on the Mount in helping to determine what a Christian should look like. The descriptive values in what and how the Christian should be would more readily translate into the fruits seen previously. Christ teaches what the believer must be like as a standard of behavior and life within the heart in accordance with the holiness of God. Being separate from the world and unto Him is a fundamental truth that without, one cannot attain the fruit of the Spirit. The division of what should be done and what should be avoided, in essence, what delineates the world from those chosen of God instills the rock of truth to rely upon Personal Experience In reflecting upon ones own experience in relation to spiritual formation, a great number of those who call themselves Christian can only describe such a term as prayer time and possibly praise and worship in certain circles. For the most part it is classified as an emotional experience one has with the work of the Spirit. The form that it arrives is through clearing the mind or through music in service. These functions among others are more related to tradition than Scripture. In personal experience, it becomes a more concrete arena. What Scripture says to do, do. What Scripture says not to do, do not do. In this there is a certain requirement to know the difference and that itself can only be accomplished through much work and study in Scriptures. Most who identify as being Christians who want a greater awareness of God actually looks for and attains a easier yet non-Biblical methodology of self-interpretation apart from Scripture. There is no work in exegetical discernment and sim ple prayer in acquiring a greater knowledge of God which, then, leads to the greater awareness of Him. One cannot occur apart from the other, no matter how trivial the spiritual exercises may be. Coincidentally, it is in Westerhoffs work that sees both sides of the coin blended into one unifying theme. In his chapter discussing the development of spiritual discipline, there are areas that are beneficial to the Christian and areas that are not. Coincidentally, those that do help deal more with the external as opposed to the internal. Finding a time and place that is consistent in reading Scripture helps to develop a consistency which coincides with repetition in going back to the Bible daily. Journaling helps in recalling areas one believes the Spirit is taking him in relation to any given question or issue currently being dealt with. It also provides a timeline of posterity for future generations to read through. A spiritual friend which is a fancy way of saying Christian Brother is good for edification and encouragement through prayer and study time. Coupled with these areas are exercises that dwell on the internal of the person involved. Picturing, pondering, and praying of the Lectio Divina borders on the Eastern Mysticism and Catholic heritage of attempting to draw closer to God through works. In clearing the mind of no thought, breathing exercises, good posture, and repeating a mantra to better focus on Scripture only clears the way for self-reflection unto sanctification.  [2]   Conclusion The entire effort of Spiritual Formation as a whole combines the Biblical with the non-Biblical under the contemplative ministry. It is rooted in Catholic pietistic mysticism with its emphasis on discipleship. It is espoused of righteousness by works by attempting to reach God by its own strength. Many Christians, who do not study as they should, take for granted what is spoken to them by leaders in the church in whom they trust, and assume it is true. It has been attributed to CH Spurgeon of the saying, Discernment is not simply a matter of telling the difference between what is right and wrong; rather it is the difference between right and almost right. It is in this piece of wisdom the Christian should reflect upon when determining whether they should follow to the letter that which is summarily grouped under Spiritual Formation.

Nineteenth Century Europe: Autonomy and Responsibility Essay -- Essays

Nineteenth Century Europe: Autonomy and Responsibility In the nineteenth century, many changes were occurring throughout Europe. Many of these changes focused on the individual, which was an important aspect of European society. However, many changes also focused on the individuals responsibility to the nation. During this time, many individuals demonstrated their right to self-government through political systems such as liberalism, while also showing their loyalty to the nation through movements of nationalism and imperialism. During the time when Europeans became focused on the self, rather than society as a whole, liberals began to surface. Liberals promoted a limited government and desired to protect the rights of the individual. Liberalism was an autonomous political system, meaning the people believed they had the right or power of self-government. Liberals favored equality before the law for all citizens, religious toleration, and freedom of the press.1 During this period it was more important that the rights and duties of the people were acknowledged by the government, rather than the government focusing solely on gaining money and power. Many advancements were made during the nineteenth century that improved the self governing system that Europe desired. The Second Industrial Revolution occurred during which the agricultural and industrial world developed, improving the standard of living. Many Europeans began migrating to cities with the hopes of finding better jobs and better lives. The standard of living greatly improved and the autonomous system of liberalism prospered. As more and more individuals began focusing on their rights and duties as individuals, they also began focusing on their res... ...Western Civilization, 168. 6 War and Civilizationà ® in Rogers, Aspects of Western Civilization, 180. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bibliography Smith, Helmut Walser. German Nationalism and Religious Conflict: Culture, Ideology, Politics, 1870-1914. Princeton, New Jersey: Princeton University Press, 1995. This book explores the relationship between religion and the national identity of Germany. In particular it touches on the conflict between Protestants and Catholics as Germany strove to create its own liberal identity. Smith also provides an analysis of the social, cultural, and political dimensions of German life. Finally, Smith explores the role of political Protestantism and the nature of the national identity in Germany today.

Tax Dollars Should Fund Religious Schools Essay -- Argumentative Persu

Tax Dollars Should Fund Religious Schools The issue of whether or not to use tax dollars to provide private schools with vouchers has been controversial for many years now.   Many people feel that it is our governments obligation to provide private institutions with the proper funds, while others believe that if private schools inherit our tax dollars then it is violation of our constitution as it promotes a particular religion.   I think it is our government's responsibility to provide each and every school with tax dollars, regardless of its orientation.   Many reasons, especially popularity and success rates provide substantial evidence that private schools should be funded by government vouchers. The main concern of those who oppose the use of government money for private schools is whether or not it would be constitutional.   In the past, many Supreme Court cases have proven that school vouchers for private schools are constitutional.   For example in Board of Education vs. Allen it was established that providing funds for private schools does not violate the Establishment C...

U.S. vs Microsoft Essay -- Justice vs Microsoft

Microsoft Case Part I: The government has been looking into Microsoft since 1990, when the Federal Trade Commission first started examining charges of monopolistic behavior. In 1995, Microsoft and the U.S. Justice Department reached a settlement that required the company to change a variety of business practices, including key aspects of its licensing agreements with personal computer makers (2). Microsoft has grown into an enormous and powerful corporation by a combination of aggressive business practices and having written operating systems (DOS and Windows) for personal computers. From operating systems it branched out into other software which has, along with the operating system, become something of an industry standard. These software products include, but are not limited to, the Microsoft Office Suite and Internet Explorer browser. One of the leading questions is if this is a â€Å"good† state of affairs: should one company so dominate computing and the Internet when we rely so heavily upon it? The most recent lawsuit involves the Justice Department and 20 state attorneys general. They believe that Microsoft has used its monopoly in operating system software to protect its dominance and eliminate competitors. The government says that in the long run, consumers will be harmed, because there will be less competition and fewer choices. More specifically, the government contends that Microsoft has engaged in actions to preserve its Windows monopoly that violate antitrust laws. The government also maintains that the company has used the power of its Windows monopoly to attempt to monopolize the market for Internet browsing software. In addition, government lawyers allege that the company has committed other anti-competitive acts (2). In addition to the DOJ and the 20 states, several other players are part of the government team against Microsoft: Netscape/AOL, Sun Microsystems, Linux and the Open Source movement, and the Consumer Project on Technology. The keys concerns are illegal tying arrangements with Windows and Internet Explorer; illegal market division between Microsoft and Netscape; and predatory conduct/pricing between Microsoft and Netscape, MS Office and Word Perfect Office and Lotus Office Suite (3). Microsoft contends that it is simply trying to innovate its products. The company contends that its actions are legal and says that t... ... it has the ability to sell that software as it sees fit. Microsoft has a very large share of the operating system market, but Jackson is off base equating Microsoft to Standard Oil. As a consumer, I have a hard time getting upset with Microsoft in general. I like the idea of being able to go to most any computer in this country and immediately be able to use the software. Whether it be Windows or Office products, the look and feel are the same at home or at any workstation. Bibliography 1. Cringely, Robert X. â€Å"Hit Me, Slap Me, Make Me Write Bad Code†. I, Cringely – The Pulpit, (November 11, 1999). [http://www.pbs.org/cringely/pulpit/pulpit19991118.html] 2. Chandrasekaran, Rajiv. â€Å"U.S. vs Microsoft†. Washington Post, (January, 2000). [http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/business/longterm/microsoft/basics.htm] 3. Meeks, Brock. â€Å"Justice vs Microsoft†. MSNBC, (February 24, 2000). [http://www.msnbc.com/news/343334.asp] 4. Zittrain, Jonathan. â€Å"U.S. vs Microsoft: The Expert Opinion†. Chicago Tribune Internet Edition, (February, 2000). [http://chicagotribune.com/tech/news/ws/indx/0,1306,8297-16796,00.html]

Crimes and Misdemeanors Essay

For the past fifty years, director and actor Woody Allen has evoked much laughter from his neurotic-style comedies. Less recognized, however, is his fascinating ability in utilizing both his stunning, humorous wit along with several philosophical concepts. Such a combination creates an engaged and thoroughly entertained audience, as well as a mentally-stimulated one. In his movie â€Å"Crimes and Misdemeanors,† the philosophical concepts Allen touches upon deal with ethical and moral issues. What does ‘do the right thing’ really entail; why not do the opposite if it leads to one’s personal success? In the absence of a God, who’s to say whether the choices we make are right or wrong? Answering these questions say much about the way one sees the world. This movie investigates such questions by intertwining two separate, parallel plots: the tragic story of Judah, and the comedic story led by Cliff Stern . There are two key moral positions that underlie the entire movie: Those with faith in God perceive the world as morally structured, forgiving, and full of true meaning. Those who do not believe in a God see the world as empty, pitiless, and devoid of meaning. After watching this movie for the third time, a consistent metaphor that integrates these positions revealed itself. Throughout the movie, nearly every scene visually and verbally involves the use of ‘eyes’ to symbolize our perceptions on how we see the world, and how people do not see themselves and events the way others may see it. Although there are several elements, characters, and events worthy of an individual analysis, this paper will concentrate on how Allen’s film represents eyes to unveil hidden truths. To illustrate the use of ‘eyes’ in this film I will investigate its role in the lives of Judah, Cliff, and Rabbi Ben. Keep in mind that all four of these characters each wear over-emphasized glasses. Within the first few minutes of the film, Judah reveals he makes his living as an ophthalmologist. Judah’s occupation certainly comes as no coincidence, for it stems from his religious past. During a speech at a charity dinner, Judah relates to the audience this past: â€Å"I’m a man of science. I’ve always been a skeptic, but I was raised quite religiously, and while I challenged it even as a child, some of that feeling must have stuck with me. † He continues to say that his father once told him, â€Å"the eyes of God are on us always. Although he revokes his religious background, it’s apparent that this ‘feeling that stuck with him’ manifested itself in his occupation; in order to fill a void which religion would fill. With the removal of â€Å"God’s eyes,† Judah made the, perhaps unconscious, decision to take up a job that deals with seei ng†¦ thus assuming the role of God. He rhetorically asks the audience, â€Å"What were God’s eyes like? Unimaginably penetrating, intense eyes I assumed. † Judah’s relationship with his father left him with a sense of awe and fear of these â€Å"intense eyes† that could see past his deceitful acts. So, his concern with vision arises from his compulsion to hide the blemishes of his character. It’s evident that Judah sees himself as a moral man: wealth, success, and a valuable role in the community are reinforced by images of him wearing a tuxedo as he’s accompanied by his family. This â€Å"family man† portrayal describes Judah’s external appearance. Wouldn’t a man blessed with this amount of success persisted in doing â€Å"the right thing† all along? Judah’s morality is put into question once his mistress sends a letter to his wife, exposing Judah’s devious actions (Judah destroys the letter immediately before his wife sees it). Judah saw no troubles in fooling around, for his efforts made him happy and he was never caught (there is no God to see his immoral choices). The letter breaks Judah’s illusions of this fantasy world he’s been living. Judah says â€Å"it’s as if I’ve awaken from a dream,† to reinforce how he must now face reality. Interestingly enough, at this point Judah now wears a pair of glasses, when forced to look at his values and actions from a different perspective. So in Judah’s case, these glasses represent his inability to see the true nature of the world, which has now directly confronted him. Judah’s brother, Jack (who sets up for the mistress to be killed), accuses him of not â€Å"living in the real world,† due to his state of wealth and privilege. Judah’s success composes this blindness he has of the â€Å"real world. † Jack, defined as pragmatic and amoral, lives in this apparent â€Å"real world† for he represents honesty and a lack of illusions even though he exemplifies unjustness. Essentially Judah and Jack adhere to the same moral, or immoral, compass. However Jack acknowledges his lack of morality, while Judah’s success leads him to falsely believe he embodies ‘rightness. Jack represents the dark and immoral side of Judah’s consciousness. With his mistress unable to listen to â€Å"logic† and â€Å"reason† Judah states, â€Å"I manage to keep free of that real world, but suddenly it’s found me. † Darkness overpowering Judah’s conscious, results in the death of his mistress. Post-murder, guilt plagues Judah, leading him to consider confessing. The camera consistently focuses on his eyes, showing the audience Judah’s shock and dismay towards his own behavior. Afflicted with hallucinations of his religious past, he repeatedly hears the words from his father: â€Å"God sees all. Latent, unconscious beliefs in God awaken in Judah’s mind. In reference to the murder he says, â€Å"God have mercy on us, Jack† and â€Å"Without God, the world is a cesspool. † Judah’s guilt originates from his fear of getting caught as well as this â€Å"moral code† which has now been violated. Fear of â€Å"God’s eyes† or perhaps even Judahs father’s law dominate his mind as if they watch his every move, exposing his actions. The film shows Judah consistently looking left and right implying that â€Å"something† watches him. A final blatantly philosophical dialogue takes place as Judah visits his childhood house and envisions a past debate his family members had over morality. According to his father’s religious view, he will be punished even if he is not caught since â€Å"that which originates from a black deed will blossom in a foul manner. † This crime that Judah committed will some way or another be punished. As an opposition, his Aunt Mae provides the model which the film follows: â€Å"I say if he can do it and get away with it, and he chooses not to be bothered by the ethics, then he’s home free. Aunt Mae also encourages Judah’s father to â€Å"open his eyes,† disclosing the fact that six million Jews were murdered and Hitler got away with it. We all want to believe that we live in a perfect, moral world where justice is served, however this does not exhibit how the world really is. In fact, Judah proves his Aunt operates as a sort of Oracle. After a period of fear and irritability, Judah proceeds to live his happy life. Guilt passes, and the momentary belief in God grows quiet once more. One morning Judah opens his eyes and sees his conscious is guilt-free and the â€Å"crisis is lifted. Judah comes to ‘see’ that God is not watching, and in a world devoid of divine presence, all acts are permissible†¦ including murder. In Judah’s world, the â€Å"eyes of God† are attributed to himself. That determines his internal appearance. The second story line deals with a self-styled, passionate yet unsuccessful idealist filmmaker named Cliff (played by Woody Allen). In the opening of this narrative strand, Cliff delivers his beliefs on his world view to his niece after watching a movie: â€Å"Don’t listen to what your teachers tell you, just see what they look like, that’s how you’ll know what life’s really about. Cliff asserts that observing and questioning another’s motives elic its their values and true nature. Just listening and accepting the superficial, external appearance leads to a false impression and ignorance. To shatter this external appearance, Cliff uses film as a tool for exposing these lesser known ‘realities. ‘ In fact, ‘eyes’ are symbolized again through filmmaking as a method for displaying new perspectives. Relating to Judah’s world, by the film’s eye the audience maintains the ability to see past his artifice which other characters are blind to. Furthermore, in a movie that deals with God and seeing, the audience acquires those â€Å"God-like eyes† that see all; that Judah feared. In Cliff’s case, he uses film to exploit his foil, Lester. Cliff directs a documentary about television producer Lester (described as rich, famous, and successful), for a program entitled â€Å"Creative Minds. † Contrary to others, Cliff perceives Lester as shallow, pompous, and sub-mental. Lester supports his egotism by referring to his â€Å"closet full of Emmys† as an item that symbolizes material success. Cliff only directs the movie to gain financial support for his documentary about a philosopher named Professor Levy. Cliff describes his philosophical film as more substantial: â€Å"See no limos, no bimbos, no awards. This guy is just a thinker, an intellect. † The tension between Lester comes as a classic ‘flash vs. substance’ debate. Cliff prefers to create films that mentally-stimulate, rather than mindlessly entertain his audience. He wants to film quality films that matter, and have potential to change the world. Lester sees such ambitions as ‘grandiose fantasies’, favoring frivolous material that will sell and further his fame, usually synonymous with crass commercialism. In the real world, high aspirations do not pay off, you’ve got to deliver. All delivery, no essence. Flash and delivery mask our stigmas and flaws. Creativity sacrificed in return for power and money. Other characters in the film fail to see Lester’s pomposity, because they have been seduced and falsely impressed by his charisma and wealth. Cliff receives a minor victory over Lester when they preview a few scenes Cliff pulled together for the documentary. This short film reveals Lester seducing a mindless woman, compares him to Mussolini, and has his voice synced over an image of a donkey. The woman represents his shallowness, the donkey as a literal ‘jackass’, and the comparison to Mussolini represents Lester’s narcissism and hunger for power. The fact that Lester’s superficiality rewards him with power ticks Cliff off most, perhaps with a dose of jealousy. As he watches himself from this new perspective, a faint glimmer and widening of Lester’s eye acknowledges the fact that he ‘may not be perfect’ as Lester likes to put it. However he abandons the thought that he ‘deadens the sensibilities of a great democracy’ as Cliff loves to point out. In other words, this documentary was supposed to create a ‘profile of a creative mind’, however Cliff painted a picture of what he saw instead. Lester refuses to fully accept these notions, affirming this view does not represent the ‘real me’. Cliff questioned Lester’s values, and this contradiction of perceptions lead to Cliff’s removal from the film. As a sub-plot, both Cliff and Lester compete over an associate woman producer, Halley. In Cliff’s world, he believes he will truly win the girl over due to his values. The film hints at this: it shows Halley shrugging off Lester, making sarcastic comments towards him, and taking interest in Cliff’s side projects. At first, both Cliff and Halley see Lester through the same lens that the preview portrayed him as. During a wedding reception towards the end of the movie, the camera does an excellent job in illustrating how the opposite happens. A slight glimpse reveals Lester and Halley embracing each other, implying they are together. Without any words spoken, the camera depicts what Cliff thinks by focusing intensely on his eyes. A couple of things can be taken from this: Halley up until this point appears with glasses on. With Lester, she removes her glasses. Halley abandons her glasses, only after she abandons her values. With virtue thrown out the window, she nows sees the once pompous and arrogant Lester as ‘endearing’. Camera focusing on Cliff’s eyes suggests he is in utter disbelief. In his eyes, Cliff deserved the girl, for he promoted grander values. In his world, such atrocities do not occur. He utters a small phrase, â€Å"This is my worst fear realized. † The fear that the world does not operate in accordance with his inner-values. In the end, Cliff’s espoused idealism led to his ultimate downfall. Clinging to beliefs creates an illusion, an illusion that may betray us. A rabbi named Ben links together both plots. Morality, faith, and forgiveness make up Ben’s character (even Judah and Cliff refer to Ben as a ‘saint’). Ben embodies all the qualities that Judah’s father possessed, they both adhere to religious beliefs. At his core, Ben conceives â€Å"Without moral structure, there’s no basis to know how to live! † Ben relies upon objective, absolute rules to guide his behavior. Contrary to Jack, Ben represents the latent religious beliefs of Judah’s unconscious. However, Ben’s vision appears to deteriorate as the movie progresses. Ben literally goes blind in the movie. Figuratively Ben’s blindness foreshadows the coming ‘sins’ that occur, and signifies the immoral atmosphere that underlies this movie. Also, Ben’s blindness generalizes the fact that all religions are blind to the cruelty and corruption of the world. When Ben asks Judah if his issues with the mistress were resolved, he bluffs saying the woman eventually ‘gave up and moved away’. Ben responds â€Å"You got lucky! † Completely oblivious and blind to the actual murder, Ben trusts Judah’s word. As Judah’s success led to his blindness, Ben’s religion does as well. Judah points out Ben resides in the â€Å"kingdom of heaven. † In order to have faith one must disregard the negative, reinforce the positive, and believe we live in a just world. Through the lens of this â€Å"kingdom of heaven† justice is served. By dimming the lights on sinful acts, one can happily live about their life in sheltered ignorance. As the film comes to an end, a scene presents Ben sporting a pair of black glasses. These glasses indicate Ben has gone fully blind, and so has all moralities in this movie. By the end of the film, God abandoned all of society. The universe is indifferent to our actions: an apparent depiction of how the real world truly exists. â€Å"Crimes and Misdemeanors† illustrates an existential truth. We all have fantasies, stories we tell ourselves about our expectations of the world. These expectations usually fail to correlate with the way the world really is. We live in an imperfect and Godless world. The murderer prospers, the virtuous man fails, and the superficial succeed. The good guy does not always get the girl. Open your eyes, realize that all meaning is man-made. Realize that without an objective law mankind is free. Free to choose how we develop ourselves in this world, and where we look to for meaning. The individual is the arbiter on how to live. Our actions define us, not our dogmas. In the words of Professor Levy: â€Å"We define ourselves by the choices we make. We are, in fact, the sum total of our choices. Events unfold so unpredictably, so unfairly. It is only we, with your capacity to love that gives meaning to the indifferent universe. †

Situation Evaluation

Maria also states that n her department, she stand alone as the only individual of Latin descent as well as the only individual of color and the only female. And also adds that her mediocre job assessments were culturally bias because her immediate supervisor is a White male just as Alex. Maria also offers that her immediate boss told her that her accent is a cause for concern as it pertains to any potential client of the company. She explained that he was fearful that the clients would not understand her because of her accent.Maria was furious so she lodged an additional complaint against the company for displaying discriminatory practices. Maria's upper management reports that she possesses a fair quality of work, however she frequently exhibits a brash and hostile attitude when dealing with her co-workers and supervisors. She has been reprimanded on a few occasions by her immediate boss for lateness and absences. She astutely combated each reprimand with an excuse of family issues . Maria would always defend that when or if her family is in trouble, she would have to attend to their needs.When the topic of her accent was brought up, it was explained that the accent was a significant factory in obtaining the particular position therefore, no discriminatory raciest were conducted by the organization. Maria habitually spoke very fast, and when she spoke in such a manner, comprehending what she was saying due to her accent was almost impossible. The company declared that the ability to communicate clearly was an essential aspect of the job in question. The purpose of the paper is to discover if there are indications of organizational or personal discrimination or prejudicial attitudes involved in Maria's complaint.Also, if there is any suggestion that Maria was unjustly or unlawfully treated. And if the company has a legal basis to expect Its employees who converse specifically with customers to speak accent free English. This paper also will offer some approache s to take which can proven any such events from transpiring in the future. Prejudice and Discrimination As Maria is the only female of Latin decent in her department, the existence of prejudice and discrimination due to race and gender could be an issue. To substantiate any such claim, prejudice and discrimination has to be defined.Prejudice is an unjustified or incorrect attitude towards an individual based merely on the individual's race, gender, or creed (McLeod, 2008). It may be directed toward a group or an individual of that group. Discrimination is an unfavorable action, behavior, outcome, or treatment directed against and individual or group (McLeod, 2008). The difference between the two is that prejudice is a belief or mindset and discrimination is the manifestation of tall belief or mindset. Prejudice in the case would be very difficult to prove unless a discriminatory act has been committed.Hypothetically speaking, if Maria was called employee X and Alex employee Y and ea ch of their performances and evaluations were examined, employee Y would be considered for the promotion over employee X hands down. Therefore, an investigation would most likely determine that there is no conclusive evidence that shows organizational or personal prejudice or discrimination towards Maria. Moreover, a statement from a possibly disgruntled employee would not be enough to prove unjust or unlawful treatment toward the employee.Unaccented English To totally satisfy Maria's complaint, the question, â€Å"Is the company violating any lawful regulations because it expect its employees who converse specifically with customers to speak accent free English† must be answered. According to Title VII of the Act of 1964, a company can put an individual's accent under scrutiny when the individual's accent directly hinders the individual from performing a specific job (EEOC, 2014). This consideration is contingent upon the explicit responsibilities for the duty to be performe d and the magnitude of the individual's accent influencing the capacity to conduct business.Although Maria has been with the company for 10 years and her accent was not a hindrance to her current position, her accent could cause confusion for the clients if she is in the position in question. Since the company acknowledged that a requirement for the position was to speak fluent English, and according to the National Origin & Employment Policies/ Practices under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the company is within legal rights. The company is under no legal law to promote Maria into the position in question.The company can however promote her into a position with the same prestige as the other and this position will not require her to interact directly with the clients. This will create a win-win situation for everybody. Consequences of Prejudice and Discrimination Although no wrong doing by the company was proven, the mere mention Of discriminatory practices could cause a company to falter. The productivity of the employee in question as well as other employees have the possibility to diminish.This reaction alone may trigger a downward spiral for revenue, which could chase away potential investors who may have been interested in the business. Not to mention, the U. S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), U. S. Department of Labor, Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFFICE) and Wage and Hour Division (WAD) will have a scrutinizing eye on every business practice the company may implement (Mayhem, 2014). No organization want to go through anything like this.That is why it is imperative for every member within a company to be well abreast that diversity is very prevalent in almost every organization in today society. Furthermore, under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, people who are discriminated against can initiate court proceedings towards a company. And if substantiated, the complainant can recoup money for any dam ages rendered by the company as it relates to discriminatory practices (Scott, 014). This can open the door for others who may have felt discriminated against to file complaints, which could lead to a very messy situation for a thriving organization.Solutions to Prevent Discrimination in the Workplace Education: everyone must be aware of cultural diversity in the workplace, which simply means understanding that people are different and should be treated as such. There is a well-known saying, â€Å"team work makes the dream work,† which means to work well with a person, one must know and trust a person. If equal and fair treatment is not practiced, discrimination will not be reverted it will be just getting started.Confrontation: anyone witnessing any signs of discrimination should openly acknowledge it and â€Å"nip it in the bud,† in essence, stopping it before it gets started. Research has shown that making people aware of a discrepancy between their discriminatory b ehavior and their egalitarian self-concept can lead to self-dissatisfaction and subsequent reductions in discriminatory responding (Divine, Mennonite, Suzerain, and Elliot (as cited in Good, Raisin, and Sanchez, 2012)). Music: as music can sooth the savage beast, it can also sooth the souls of people who possess rejoice and discriminatory attitudes.In fact, Mark Cliches, a psychotherapist in New York City and the author of Healing from Family Rifts offers, â€Å"music can be a salvation and antidote to most psychological challenges: that's why people sing in the shower and while driving the car, or simply listen to music that's inspiring and distracting from emotional upset† (Cliches, 2008). No matter if discrimination or any unfair treatment was found to substantiate Maria's claim, the company in question can and will prosper through the implementations of the aforementioned solution to prevent discrimination in the workplace.Top managers within an organization must play an active role in interacting with the employees as it relate to cultural differences. This will promote cultural harmony and bring an understanding to all that everybody has to Stay mindful Of the other guy. Conclusion In the cultural diverse environment, someone will feel discriminated against for one reason or another. Fifth truth is told, it may be next to impossible to please everybody all the time. This could lead to alienation, frustration, separation, and termination. Unfortunately, prejudice and discriminatory thoughts as well as actions of such do exist in the workplace.Organizations can and will go tumbling down which could cause a lot of innocent people some unnecessary hardship. It could be a horrible feeling to think a person cannot advance because someone may not like them just because they are different. Nothing good can come from a company that overlooks prejudice and discriminatory behavior exhibited by the members within that company. Let us stamp out this ugly form a degradation before it ever gets started. It is going to take education, confrontation, and annihilation through music to rid or prevent this unspeakable form of injustice which is known as workplace coordination.