11 Facts You Should Know about Halloween

11 Facts You Should Know about Halloween The U.S. is a society of consumers, and an economy based primarily on consumer spending, so its no surprise that Halloween is celebrated in  consumerist ways. Lets take a look at some interesting facts about Halloween consumption, with data from  National Retail Federations Halloween Headquarters, and consider what they mean from a sociological perspective. 171 million Americans- more than half the entire national population- will celebrate Halloween in 2016.Halloween is the nations third favorite holiday, but second favorite for those between the ages of 18-34. It is  less popular with older folks, and more popular among women than men,   according to a 2011 Harris Interactive poll.Not just for kids,  Halloween is an important holiday for adults too. Nearly half the adult population will dress in costume for the occasion.Total U.S. spending for Halloween 2016 is expected to reach 8.4 billion dollarsan increase of more than 3 billion dollars since 2007. That includes $3.1 billion spent on costumes, $2.5 billion on candy, and  $2.4 billion on decorations.The average person will spend about $83 celebrating Halloween.About a third of all adults will throw or attend a Halloween party.One in five adults will visit a haunted house.Sixteen percent will dress their pets in costume.In 2016 costume choices among adults differ by age brack et. Among Millennials, Batman characters take the number one spot, followed by witch, animal, Marvel or DC superhero, and vampire. The number one costume among older adults is a witch, followed by pirate, political costume, vampire, and then Batman character. Action and superhero characters are the top choice for children in 2016, followed by princess, animal, Batman character, and Star Wars character.Pumpkin wins the top spot for pets, followed by hot dog, bumble bee, lion, Star Wars character, and devil. So, what does all this mean, sociologically speaking? Halloween is clearly a very important holiday in the U.S. We can see this in not only the patterns in participation and spending  but in what people do to celebrate the holiday. Early sociologist Émile Durkheim observed that rituals are occasions upon which people in a culture or society come together to reaffirm their values, beliefs, and morals. By participating in rituals together, we activate and reaffirm our collective consciencethe sum of those beliefs and ideas we share in common,  that take on a life and force of their own due to their collective nature. In celebration of Halloween, those rituals include dressing in costume, trick-or-treating, throwing and attending costume parties, decorating homes,  and going to haunted houses. This raises the question of what values, beliefs, and morals are reaffirmed through our mass participation in these rituals. Halloween costumes in the U.S. have evolved away from the holidays social origins as taunts and mocking of death, and toward popular culture. Sure, witch is a popular costume for women, and zombies and vampires are also in the top ten, but the variations of them trend more toward sexy than scary or evocative of death. So, it would be false to conclude that the rituals affirm values and beliefs of Christianity and Paganism. They point instead to  the importance placed on having fun and being  sexy in our society. But, what also stands out to this sociologist is the consumerist nature of the holiday and the rituals. The primary thing we do to celebrate Halloween is buy stuff. Yes, we go out and get together and have fun, but none of that happens without first shopping and spending moneya collective 8.4 billion dollars. Halloween, like other consumerist holidays (Christmas, Valentines Day, Easter, Fathers Day and Mothers Day), is an occasion upon which we reaffirm the importance of consuming in order to fit in with the norms of society. Thinking back to Mikhail Bakhtins description of medieval carnivale in Europe as a release valve for the tensions that arise in a highly stratified society, we could also surmise that Halloween serves a similar function in the U.S. today. Currently economic inequality and poverty are at their greatest in the nations history. We are faced with an incessant onslaught of terrible news about global climate change, war, violence, discrimination and injustice,  and disease. In the midst of this, Halloween presents an attractive opportunity to take off our own identity, put on another, shake off our cares and concerns, and exist as someone else for an evening or two. Ironically, we may be further exacerbating the problems we face in the process, by perpetuating the hypersexualization of women and racism via costume, and  by handing our hard-earned money over to already wealthy corporations that exploit laborers and the environment to bring all the Halloween goods to us. But we sure have fun doing it.

Healthcare Marketing Example

Healthcare Marketing Example Healthcare Marketing – Coursework Example Ambien Advert Ambien This is a commonly used hypnotic drug in the USA. It is mainly used to combat insomnia. The ad is directed at the general adult American population. It transverses gender since it incorporates all patients suffering from sleep disorders. This is the appropriate target audience for Ambien. According to the website nearly half of Americans suffer from sleep problems (storykc.com/media/). Therefore, by targeting the adult American populace, the ad reaches its appropriate audience. Furthermore, the website is persuasive since it majorly focuses on the benefits of Ambien. It also clearly outlines its (Ambien) uses. Additionally, the website claims that the drug is highly effective in treating depression and anxiety disorders. The website is dedicated to the selling of health drugs. Consequently, it lists various types of drugs on its homepage alongside Ambien.The website does not provide the client with enough information to make an informed decision. It only aims at convincing the client to purchase the drugs by specifically focusing on the benefits of Ambien while ignoring its side effects or disadvantages. As such, the website does not list even a single disadvantage of the drug. In order for a patient to make an informed decision, he has to have access to the benefits and side effects of the drug. This vital concept is missing from the website. However, price information is available on the website. It lists that a single Ambien pill goes for 3.17 dollars. Lastly, the website has an FDA mark. This signifies that the drug being sold has been approved for human use. If I was suffering from insomnia, I would use the product in this ad .This is because it has been approved by the food and drug administration (FDA) agency. Furthermore, the product is deemed to be highly effective with curing insomnia.ReferencesRetrieved from storykc.com/media/

Runaway Chemical Reaction and Vapor Cloud Explosion Literature review

Runaway Chemical Reaction and Vapor Cloud Explosion - Literature review Example The drive needs to be sorted before the start of any reaction process to control the explosion incidences. In addition, during the polymerization process, the people concerned should ensure that there is required amount of polymers and monomers to reduce the reaction process. When unequal amounts of polymers and monomers are used, there can be rapid increase in reaction pressure in reactors manways enabling solvent vapor to be forced out as a flammable cloud Carolina (CSB 2007, p. 2). In most cases, it has been noticed that when the ejected vapor comes into contact with the source of ignition, it results in explosion thereby can lead to killing of workers and several harms. Such killings and deaths need to be controlled by the workers themselves and some organization bodies. The Chemical Safety Board (CSB) should ensure the workers are familiar with basic safeguards tips that prevent, detect and moderate runaway reactions. Moreover, the Board should also ensure that all safety management practices are operating all time. Most preferably, people should reside quite distance from main firms that are involved in several reaction tests. During the process of reaction that may at times leads to severe explosions may cause injuries to the nearby homes Carolina (CSB 2007, p. 3). Some blasts may go beyond the borders causing damage of structures of the nearby residents. The most important necessity for all companies that are involved in chemical reaction processes is a quick mode of transport. Ambulances owned by these firms create immediate access to medical checkups. The injured workers can be transported to various hospitals depending on the nature of harm. The burned labors are taken to burn centers for better treatment. In order to get a complete manufacturing cycle, several reaction steps must be followed. All the levels should be monitored by the operators Carolina (CSB 2007, p. 5). In order to achieve appropriate and successful manufacturing cycle, there

Virtue theory and abortion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Virtue theory and abortion - Essay Example I strongly support the idea that abortion is the best option for Rebecca. It was mentioned earlier that the theory of utilitarianism considers an action to be right if the chosen action can provide a person the best consequences that can make the person happy (Hursthouse 225). Since both persons are only 22 years of age, it is given that both Rebecca and Tobias are not ready to settle down and have a child. This brings out the question, what would really make Rebecca happy in life? Is it becoming a single mother? Or being able to pursue her career as a human rights lawyer? Abortion, based on the theory of utilitarianism, seems to be the best option for Rebecca. It was mentioned in the given case study that the relationship between Rebecca and Tobias were not based on sincerity and true love; but more on just sexual desires and pleasure. For this reason, continuing the pregnancy may not be the best action that will make Rebecca happy. Aside from not feeling ready to start a family, Rebecca refuses to raise a child without a husband to support her either financially or emotionally. The problem with Tobias is that is guy, given the young age, is also not determined or responsible enough to face his personal obligation as a father to Rebecca’s unborn child. Therefore, it is close to impossible that Rebecca would be able to raise the unborn child with Tobias. On the contrary becoming a human rights lawyer is what will make Rebecca happy in life. Therefore, it is just right for Rebecca to decide on having an abortion. Opponents can criticize my personal point-of-view using the theory of deontology. Basically, the theory of deontology considers an action to be right in case it strictly follows the basic moral principles of God or as required by the natural law (Hursthouse 234). In general, one of the common principles of God includes the idea that it is morally wrong to kill people. Within the

Challenges Faced by Teachers

Challenges Faced by Teachers Availability of resources for the students with literacy difficulties While most of the participants didnt have clear views about this question, the teacher brought to light the necessity to include i-pads and laptop to support SEN students (APPENDIX 3). In the researchers notes, there are some points made like, The only essential support for the students is obviously the teacher. Teaching assistants are consumed in the behaviour management of the class and it is a luxury for a student to receive prolonged support during the lesson. Obviously, there is no computer program that is supporting students currently. It is the teachers responsibility to improvise and provide his own resources for the students (APPENDIX 1). Availability of Time and Support There has been a recognition by one teacher that it is very challenging to completely focus their attention only to dyslexic students during the lesson, due to the lack of time and assistance. Classroom assistance specifically for dyslexic students is really a luxury that no school could afford, which could save (APPENDIX 3). Also, in researchers notes is stated that, The assistants help in the delivery of the lesson could save me time to support more efficiently the dyslexic students (APPENDIX 1). Differentiation Differentiation, based on the Training and Development Agency for Schools, is the process by which differences between learners are accommodated so that all students in a group have the best possible learning (Barlett, 2016, p.5). Differentiation can be met by using a variety of resources, tasks, groupings, outcomes and support for the students (Barlett, 2016). The evidence from the interviews suggests that a wide range of support is provided for dyslexic students. However, the researcher felt that, It is very difficult to plan and differentiate the lesson for every single student, and as a trainee, it is for me particularly difficult to find time in explaining the lesson to the teaching assistant(TA), which can lead to questions on whether responses from participants were actually realistic (APPENDIX 1). Training of the Staff All the participants commented that they received sufficient training to support the SEN students in the school. The SENDCO argued that schools staff are receiving continuous training to ensure that they know how to support the later, in all circumstances. Specifically, the staff know how to be looking specifically at key words, how to teach key words to students, how to check their knowledge, how to ask the students to create paragraphs, how to tap into the reading and support reading. Also, they are trained to be looking very carefully and do marking for spelling (APPENDIX 6). Co-Curricular Activities in School SENDCO made clear there are multiple activities that are designed to help dyslexic students including, enrichment activities, extra-curriculum activities, activities that include homework clubs, that can aid students who are not able to do independently their homework. She argued that, SEN students are always welcome to attend these weekly activities and be benefited (APPENDIX 6). However, there was a point raised by one Teaching Assistant stating that additional support can be provided. She argued that it would be wise for the school to make a greater effort in making Disabled and non-disabled learners learning together as this will help create new opportunities to build relationships (APPENDIX 5). Individual Learning Plan (IEP) To produce an effective IEP for students, it is crucial for parents, students and school staff should actively collaborate to investigate in depth the needs of the students and plan a strategy that will support the students effectively (NCSE, 2010). However, one of the major concerns from parents is that during the meeting with professionals their views are not usually highly regarded by the later (Pinkus, 2005). Except the fact that parents are being communicated about the inclusion practices of the school, in SENDCOs interview, evidence suggest that parents are not actively participating in the decision-making and assessment process. Therefore, including parents more in the decision-making process, would be of key importance. The profiles of the 2 selected students for observation The selection of the two students was mainly based on the fact the they were being taught by the researcher of this study. The researcher came in contact and consulted the class teachers and teaching assistants that were supporting him during his placement to discuss and ask permission for discussions that would specifically focus of these two SEN students. The 2 students had similar special educational needs and their names have been changed to ensure anonymity. Oliver is a boy in year eight who has difficulties with spoken language and retaining information (memory). Kelly is a girl in year eight, who has a mild learning disability, presenting many of the symptoms associated with Dyslexia. More information can be found in Appendix 7. Limitations The study was conducted during a 3-month period, from October to December 2016. As it has been mentioned in section 3.2 there has been a limitation of time, resulting in the reduction of the sample tank. Moreover, time restrictions led the researcher to the selection of only two students with similar needs. In addition, Jupp characterises the sampling technique of Opportunity Sampling, as the weakest sampling method. It is argued that the selection of the participants is considered as biased and is not accurately representing the actual, real world results (Jupp, 2006). Considering Reflexivity as stated in section 3, the researchers stay in his placement school along with his personal attributes, gave him the opportunity to select and interview only those four participants. Consequently, researchers subjectivity is acknowledged in the collection and interpretation of the data, as well as the discussion of the results. In general, findings are linking closely to the existing literature. The interviews are showing that staff is confident towards the inclusion policy of the school for the dyslexic students. However, the school can become more inclusive. Most the interviewees expressed the necessity for further assistance inside the classrooms and for further provision of resources. In addition, the researcher identified that there are severe time limitations for the teachers regarding lesson planning and differentiation. Therefore, there should be provided sufficient funding from the local authorities and government. Also, stronger links between teachers, teaching assistants, supporting staff and parents should be established. Last but not least, critical role to this venture should play the schools proactive leadership.

Organizational Conflict in Noahs Ark Preschool Essay -- Interpreting

Conflicts in an organization impact the employees and the organization itself in a variety of ways. It is a constant hindrance in organizational life due to conflicting goals between managers and workers. In definition, conflict is â€Å"the interaction of interdependent people who perceive incompatible goals and interference from one another in achieving those goals† (George 287). While most individuals perceive conflict as being a negative aspect in a working relationship, others believe it â€Å"allows the opportunity to release built-up tension, stimulate critical thinking, and strengthen relationships† (George 287). I extensively observed the conflicts at Noah’s Ark Preschool and found these conflicts to have both positive and negative effects on the organization and its employees. During my evaluation I focused on how conflicts emerged, how they were managed, and in what ways the organization could improve its conflict management skills. The first step in resolving organizational conflict is to consider the typical sources of conflict (Donais). The sources of conflict are infinite, but some are recurrent and persistent. Poor communication skills can stimulate conflict and lead to misunderstandings between employees or between employee and manager. While conducting my interview, I learned the director of Noah’s Ark, Regina, is frequently vague and inconsistent with instructions. One employee described a situation in which Regina allowed the employees to wear shorts one afternoon—which is against dress code— but disciplined them for wearing shorts the next day. In this situation, lack of communication and information from employer to employee caused a misinterpretation of rules the organization routinely abides by. A difference... ...; How Dangerous Can it Be?."  Yahoo Contributor Network. N.p., 3 Jan. 2011. Web. 28 Apr. 2014. Kuehner-Hebert, Katie. "Mismanaging Workplace Conflicts."  www.HREOnline.com. LRP Publications, 22 Aug. 2012. Web. 28 Apr. 2014. "Association for Conflict Resolution—Giving Voice to the Choices for Quality Conflict Resolution."  Association for Conflict Resolution. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Apr. 2014. Segal, Jeanne , and Melinda Smith. "Conflict Resolution Skills."  Turning Conflicts into Opportunities. N.p., 1 Apr. 2014. Web. 28 Apr. 2014. Burrell, Bonnie. "Collaboration Toolbox || MODULE 1 > Conflict Management."Collaboration Toolbox || MODULE 1 > Conflict Management. N.p., 1 Jan. 2001. Web. 28 Apr. 2014. Dreu, Carsten K. W. de.. "Productive Conflict: The Importance of Conflict Management and Conflict Issues."  Using conflict in organizations. London: Sage, 1997. . Print.

Atomic Bomb – World War II

World War II is known for acts of heroism on both sides, as well as controversial decisions. One major event that has long been debated was the use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The reason Japan was threatened by the U. S. with the Atomic bomb was to force them to surrender. The war would have taken much longer had an invasion been attempted. An invasion would have cost more lives for both sides than the bombings. The Allies were justified in dropping atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The first reason the bombing was justified was that it was the most viable way to force the Japanese to surrender. The Allied offer of the Potsdam Conference on July 26, 1945 stating that the war would end only when the Japanese surrendered and gave up Emperor Hirohito. This offer was completely unacceptable to the Japanese, who, at the time, regarded their emperor as a god and declined the Postdam demands without thinking twice. President Harry S Truman was in a situation where he could not change the terms of the offer, because the American citizens wanted Hirohito imprisoned, if not executed after the bombing of pearl harbor. Changing the terms of the offer would also be regarded as a sign of weakness on the Americans' part, which was unacceptable during a time of war. After the crushing defeats of the U. S. over the Japanese at Iwo Jima and Okinawa were also very decisive battles that the U. S. won where the Japanese did not give up; showing there loyalty to their emperor and the fact that they wouldn’t give up. Meanwhile, as the U. S. was picking off all of the strategic islands around Japan, the Japanese were still building there defense up. This too proved they would not give up. Another reason that the Americans were justified in dropping the bomb was that it ended the war much more quickly than would an invasion. Many Americans had already been killed in the battles against Japan, and Truman’s main goals were to save American lives and get his troops home as soon as possible. The second of the two atomic bombs was dropped on Nagasaki on August 9, 1945 and the Japanese surrendered 5 days later on August 14, 1945. The alternative to the use of the atomic bomb, an invasion over land, had been scheduled for November 1 had the bombing not succeeded or had it been cancelled. This invasion could have dragged on for months, if not years. Japan also had no defense for the destruction of the cities. If they had no defense they would have to surrender ending the war early. The third, final, and most important reason the Americans were justified in dropping atomic bombs on Japan was that the bombings claimed far less lives than would have been taken during an invasion. Between the two cities, there was estimated to have been approximately 115,000 deaths as a result of the bombings. President Truman estimated that as many as one million American soldiers would have died in an invasion of Japan. Also the Soviet Union was about to invade Japan. This would cause the Soviets to have a lot of influence in the United States’ decisions in the far east. President Truman intended the atomic bomb to be a way to end the war at a minimum cost of American lives. The use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki was a justified strategy on the Allies' part. A Japanese surrender was impossible due to the political landscape before the bombings. The war would have dragged on much longer had the bomb not been dropped and an invasion carried out instead. The bombings claimed fewer lives than an invasion would have. The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki brought a decisive end to the Second World War, as well as beginning the nuclear age; changing the world forever.