Torture Should Not Be Justified By Dr. Martin Luther King

â€Å"Violence brings only temporary victories; violence, by creating many more social problems than it solves, never brings permanent peace† (King 482). These were the wise words stated by Dr. Martin Luther King during his time as a civil rights activist. Sadly, in the current world it seems like this principle has been completely forgotten, that violence will only create more violence. This principle applies to the current issue that exist today when interrogation officials are torturing terrorists for information. It is foolish to consider that torture could be justified even if it is to help save lives because torturing does not solve the larger problem at hand, and that is to create permanent peace. The topic of torture should not be debatable because there are international laws set in place to prevent such barbaric treatments against any human. Furthermore, torture is fundamentally wrong from a moral perspective because it is causing harm to another person. Instead of t orturing terrorists for information we should utilize in interrogation methods based on intellectual engagement and relationship building that does not go beyond moral and legal confines. Torturing has existed throughout humankind’s history to as early as 530AD (Green). Whether torturing was intended for punishment or forcing someone to make a false confession, torturing has now evolved into a form of interrogation that is being used in the 20th century. In the database article, â€Å"Torture Report†,Show MoreRelatedTorture and National Security: A Moral Question Essay1388 Words   |  6 PagesPhilosophy and Public Affairs journal simply entitled, Torture, written by Henry Shue, a Senior Research Fellow and Professor of Politics and International Relations at Oxford University. If included in the curriculum, it would be in the Section 3b, which asks if disobedience or violence is ever moral. This article should be included because of the authors demonstrated experti se in the subject, its alignment and expansion of the section it should be included in, and ability to induce gray area typeRead MoreMartin Luther King Jr : Letter From Birmingham Jail Essay1678 Words   |  7 Pages Martin Luther King Jr: Letter from Birmingham Jail Hao Ran Hu SUNY Broome Hao Ran Hu Global History Professor St.Clair 2016 Martin Luther King Jr: Letter from Birmingham Jail One of the interesting Documents in World History is the ‘Letter from Birmingham Jail’ by Martin Luther King Jr who was born as Michael King in 1929 in Atlanta. His parents were partRead MoreSchools of Criminology5403 Words   |  22 PagesIntroduction Ever since the dawn of human civilization, crime has been a baffling problem. There is hardly any society which is not beset with the problem of crime. Dr. Heinrich Oppenheimer in his book ‘Rationale of Punishment’ says that a crimeless society is a myth. Commenting on this aspect, Emile Durkheim says, â€Å"a society composed of persons with angelic qualities would not be free from violations of the norms of that society†. In fact, crime is a dynamic concept changing with social transformationRead MoreLogical Reasoning189930 Words   |  760 Pagesorganization is sound and the author does a superior job of presenting the structure of arguments. David M. Adams, California State Polytechnic University These examples work quite well. Their diversity, literacy, ethnic sensitivity, and relevancy should attract readers. Stanley Baronett. Jr., University of Nevada Las Vegas Far too many authors of contemporary texts in informal logic – keeping an eye on the sorts of arguments found in books on formal logic – forget, or underplay, how much of Read MoreOne Significant Change That Has Occurred in the World Between 1900 and 2005. Explain the Impact This Change Has Made on Our Lives and Why It Is an Important Change.163893 Words   |  656 Pagesagropastoral commodities, and base minerals, what had been natural features in temperate America became some of the world’s most important â€Å"natural† resources. The abundance of a black sedimentary rock turned the United States into the world’s coal king. The most extensive—and emptiest—arable plains on the planet became its principal breadbasket. The European population and urbanization explosions created a demand for its fruits, trains and steamers provided a means of transporting them, and European

The Odyssey And Sundiat An Epic Of Old Mali - 1328 Words

Heroism is defined as the qualities or attributes of a hero or heroine. (Google). Destiny is defined as something that is to happen or has happened to a particular person or thing; lot or fortune. The predetermined, usually inevitable or irresistible, course of events. (Google). Finally A journey is defined as an act of traveling from one place to another. (Google). While analyzing these two great epics I came across many similarities between the two main characters. In both epics The Odyssey and Sundiata: An Epic of Old Mali Odysseus and Sundiata embark on destined heroic conquest to fulfill their destiny. All throughout the two main characters quest, they encounter obstacles, and foes they must overcome in order to achieve their goal of returning home. In Homers Odyssey, numerous exemplar of the two main themes heroism and destiny are evident, whether they are for the advantage or destruction of Odysseus. In Niane s Sundiata: An Epic of Old Mali, The theme of heroism and destiny a ppear bold and unavoidable throughout the narrative, for Sundiata is abundantly afflicted by how people accept him. If it were not for the fore told destiny of Odysseus and Sundiata they would not be such astounding Kings. Firstly, Odysseus is a astounding hero who demonstrates heroism through his shrewdness, cunning, and bravery. His recognition of good – and – evil helps him on countless occasions avoid catastrophe. Your resume was his most magnificent characteristic, because of it

Study Skills Factors Impeding Ethical Consumptio

Question: a) Demonstrate competence in a range of business and academic skills and apply them in an organisational/enterprise setting .b) Communicate effectively both in written (reports, summaries etc.) c) Collect and analyse appropriate data from a range of learning/information sources .d) Undertake research tasks, both individually and in groups, with appropriate guidance .e) Demonstrate understanding of global, ethical and organisational responsibility issues. Answer: Introduction According to the recent report from the Co-operative Bank, one-third of UK consumers are growing ethically conscious. They are willing to challenge or even boycott the companies not supporting or complying with ethical standards (Bray, Johns and Kilburn 2011). Ethical consumerism enables people to think about the product sourcing techniques if they are harmful to the environment. A wide range of product areas that fall into the ethical category are travel and tourism, fashion, energy, banking and finance, and food and drinks (Carroll and Buchholtz 2012). The report begins with the identification of the organization HM, which claims to follow ethical standards in its business operations. Certain examples are provided that justify that the organization follows ethical consumerism. The approaches used by the organization are elaborated that help it in becoming a more socially conscious business. The approaches are liked with the business ethics and values. Further, primary research methodology is followed for conducting a short opinion survey. The survey helps in assessing the factors influencing consumer buying behaviour. The report concludes with a critical evaluation of ethical consumerism based on primary and secondary research with a focus on HM. Lastly, recommendations are provided that would help HM become more ethical. Ethical Consumerism Ethical consumerism can be defined as the practice of purchasing products and services that causes least harm to the environment. The consumers may choose to avoid or boycott the products and services that are unethically produced (Singh et al. 2012). An ethical consumer is seen as a responsible consumer who is concerned with Fair Trade and is interested in assessing from where the goods are sourced or distributed. This practice leads to responsible decision making in the global market for ethical products and services. The moral concerns include values such as slavery-free labour, child-free labour, and trade-justice, green, organic and other environment issues. The ethical consumers are more likely to motivate consumer behaviour if they are ethically sourced, produced or distributed (White, MacDonnell and Ellard 2012). For example, ethical consumers are geared towards sustainable tourism and concerned with standards of weather and accommodation. The ethical consumers may tend to feel that tourism can ruin the local culture and aim to seek a holiday with an ethical code of practice (Weeden 2014). Ethics is also becoming more ingrained in the food and drink operators. The consumers are increasingly switching to organic food. The food maybe expensive to buy regularly, but 37% ethical standards are being compromised in low-priced food (Store.mintel.com 2016). Ethical standards can also be applied in the fashion industry for the clothes and jeans companies. The clothing companies such as HM, Next and Zara have sustainable supply chains. These companies are taking initiatives to eradicate toxic chemicals from their supply chains by 2020. Even the sportswear giants such as Adidas and Nike are supporting the Detox Campaign where the companies consider beautiful fashion should not cause toxic pollution (Greenpeace.org 2016). According to Ethical Consumer survey, Good Energy is considered as the best energy company as they follow green electricity in the best manner. The organization believes that their business can impact on the climate change thereby making it easier for the people to switch to green electricity (Brignall and Jones 2011). As seen in the above examples, it is necessary and beneficial for the companies to act ethically. It helps in engaging stakeholders and minimizing non-financial costs. Ethical standards help in reducing social inequalities and help them gain competitive advantage. An organization with strong ethical standards attracts customers thereby boosting sales and profits. Additionally, the employees would be loyal thereby enhancing productivity. It shall also attract investors keeping the share price high (Singh et al. 2012). Company Review One of the giants, Hennes Mauritz (HM) claims itself to be an ethical company. It is a Swedish multinational apparel brand known for its fast-fashion clothing. It is not just a big player in the fashion industry, but a giant selling over 550 million garments annually (Siegle 2012). In an audacious move, HM positions itself to make ethics an integral part in its products and services. The organization is continually creating sync between ethics and fast-fashion. Their mission is to become an ethical giant (Siegle 2012). As recognised by the Ethisphere Institute, HM was named as the most ethical companies for the sixth year (Hm.com 2016). The scores were generated for five categories: culture of ethics, corporate citizenship and responsibility, innovation and reputation, governance and leadership, and ethics and compliance program. HM excels in promoting ethical business standards, shaping the future fashion industry standard, and enables managers and employees make good choices (Hm.com 2016). The organization believes in being ethical through integrity, respect and fair play in their business. They aim at protecting human rights, take responsibility for the colleagues and provide an inclusive business environment. They believe in being transparent and honest with their stakeholders. Additionally, the organization stands against any form of corruption and embraces diversity (Hm.com 2016). The highlights of the company state that 72% of their managers and 77% colleagues are women (Hm.com 2016). HM has specific core values and believes in people. They believe in working together as a team by keeping things simple. They constantly strive for improvement and keep up the entrepreneurial spirit (Hm.com 2016). The people have argued that HM is a low-cost clothing company. They have raised controversies if the company cuts cost, how it can pay fair wages to the workers. HM claims that increasing wages would not increase the consumers pay for clothing since they have in-house manufacturing. There are different living wages in different countries that are adjusted accordingly (Liebelson 2014). HM further mentions about standing clear of the child labour practices. Additionally, if they discover kids who are below the statutory minimum age, HM pays for the kids education until they are 15 or the legal working age in country (Sustainability.hm.com 2016). Further, HM launched Conscious Collection as effort to sustainable clothing. The garments are made from recycled polyester chiffon and organic cotton. The chic-pieces are trends and fashionable while being sustainable. HM involved a wide range of tailored suits for men, and cocktail dresses, romantic evening gowns for women (Murray 2013). HM takes efforts to reduce its carbon emissions and electricity consumption. They are reusing or recycling garments through their in-store garment collection program (Henry 2015). HM promotes good practice not only among suppliers and employees, but also in the value chain. HM offers good working conditions to its employees, raises awareness about rights at work and provides training. The organization also directly influences the suppliers for improving their value chain process. Another ethical approach is used for better packaging with fewer resources and causing less waste (Sustainability.hm.com 2016). The packaging materials used by the organiza tion are recyclable and meets the standard packaging shapes to minimise waste in production. They use FSC-certified paper and board that helps in sustainable packaging. Even for transporting, they use boxed that are reusable and are sent back to distribution centres to be used again (Sustainability.hm.com 2016). Opinion Survey A short opinion survey was conducted for assessing the influence of consumer buying behaviour. Primary data was collected from a sample size of 14 students at GSM London. The findings of the survey are collected ahead. The demographic profile was simply assessed for gender for which 7 males and 7 females were chosen. Gender Frequency Percentage Male 7 50% Female 7 50% Total 14 100% Table 1: Gender A minimum of one option and maximum of three options could be chosen to assess the buying behaviour of consumers. It was observed that majority of the respondents selected one of their options as firms ethical behaviour. It is interpreted that an organizations ethical behaviour plays a significant role in the consumer purchase decision process. Other than that, the customers value product and service quality as the second most important factor. The purchase decision is affected by brand status, recognition, satisfaction and dispensable income of an individual. Figure 1: Factors Influencing Purchase Decision The most interesting result of the survey was that none of the respondents would choose to buy a product that they know of is produced, manufactured or distributed through unethical practices. This indicates that the growing awareness of ethical issues is impacting the mind of youngsters. They are not willing to consume products if it is involved in unethical practices such as slavery, child labour or causes environmental damage. Preference Frequency Percentage Yes - - No 14 100% Maybe - - Total 14 100% Table 2: Unethical Product Preference The last question regarding the opinion about ethical trade practices was answered in a descriptive format. Most of the answers involved that ethical practices must be adopted by all companies as it promote social consciousness, humanity and environmental protection. They further state that ethical practices are a motivation for them and they wish to make it a part of their regular lifestyle. Conclusion Conclusively, HM follows ethical practices in its operations, production, packaging and distribution. Ethical consumerism enables people to think about the product sourcing techniques if they are harmful to the environment. The consumers may choose to avoid or boycott the products and services that are unethically produced. Ethical standards help in reducing social inequalities and help them gain competitive advantage. In an audacious move, HM positions itself to make ethics an integral part in its products and services. They aim at protecting human rights, take responsibility for the colleagues and provide an inclusive business environment. HM has specific core values and believes in people. They believe in working together as a team by keeping things simple. They constantly strive for improvement and keep up the entrepreneurial spirit. The packaging materials used by the organization are recyclable and meets the standard packaging shapes to minimise waste in production. It is inter preted that an organizations ethical behaviour plays a significant role in the consumer purchase decision process. Most of the answers involved that ethical practices must be adopted by all companies as it promote social consciousness, humanity and environmental protection. Certain recommendations are provided in the following section to help HM become more ethical. Recommendations HM can consider rapid development of online market like other competitors. The store design can be made sustainable. Limitations must be set in the cotton usage as it already manages environmental performance. HM can implement measures such as store credit to enable customers brings the clothes back. These clothes can be put to recycling. The organization must also shift permanently to products that can be produced using polyester and organic cotton. The workplace conditions can be improved. In-store opportunities for redistribution of products can be implemented. Training must be provided to the employees so that they can come up with creative ideas to enhance sustainability. References Bray, J., Johns, N. and Kilburn, D., 2011. An Exploratory Study into the Factors Impeding Ethical Consumption.J Bus Ethics, 98(4), pp.597-608. Brignall, M. and Jones, R., 2011.Ethical money: 10 ways to greener spending. [online] the Guardian. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/money/2011/oct/14/ethical-money-greener-spending [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Carroll, A. and Buchholtz, A., 2012.Business and Society: Ethics, Sustainability, and Stakeholder. Australia: South-Western, Cengage Learning. Greenpeace.org, 2016.Detox Our Future. [online] Detox Our Future. Available at: https://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/campaigns/detox/ [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Henry, K., 2015.HM Reduces Carbon Footprint 16% Environmental Leader Environmental Management News. [online] Environmentalleader.com. Available at: https://www.environmentalleader.com/2015/04/10/hm-reduces-carbon-footprint-16/ [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Hm.com, 2016.Ethical behaviour. [online] About.hm.com. Available at: https://about.hm.com/en/About/sustainability/commitments/ethical-behaviour.html [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Hm.com, 2016.News. [online] About.hm.com. Available at: https://about.hm.com/en/news/newsroom/news.html/en/hm-named-as-one-of-the-worlds-most-ethical-companies-in-2016.html [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Hm.com, 2016.Our values. [online] About.hm.com. Available at: https://about.hm.com/en/About/facts-about-hm/people-and-history/working-at-hm/values.html [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Liebelson, D., 2014.HM plans to pay garment workers fair wages. Here's why that's probably BS.. [online] Mother Jones. Available at: https://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2014/01/hm-fair-labor-wages [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Murray, R., 2013.HM launches new 'Conscious' line. [online] NY Daily News. Available at: https://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/fashion/h-m-launches-new-conscious-line-article-1.1308620 [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Siegle, L., 2012.Can HM really claim to be ethical?. [online] the Guardian. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2012/apr/07/hennes-mauritz-h-and-m [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Singh, J., Iglesias, O. and Batista-Foguet, J., 2012. Does Having an Ethical Brand Matter? The Influence of Consumer Perceived Ethicality on Trust, Affect and Loyalty.J Bus Ethics, 111(4), pp.541-549. Store.mintel.com, 2016.The Ethical Food Consumer - UK - 2015 : Consumer market research report | Mintel.com. [online] Store.mintel.com. Available at: https://store.mintel.com/the-ethical-food-consumer-uk-june-2015?cookie_test=true [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Sustainability.hm.com, 2016.Clear stand against child labour. [online] Sustainability.hm.com. Available at: https://sustainability.hm.com/en/sustainability/commitments/choose-and-reward-responsible-partners/code-of-conduct/clear-stand-against-child-labour.html [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Sustainability.hm.com, 2016.Packaging. [online] Sustainability.hm.com. Available at: https://sustainability.hm.com/en/sustainability/commitments/reduce-reuse-recycle/packaging.html [Accessed 5 Aug. 2016]. Weeden, C., 2014.Managing ethical consumption in tourism. New York: Routledge. White, K., MacDonnell, R. and Ellard, J., 2012. Belief in a Just World: Consumer Intentions and Behaviors Toward Ethical Products.Journal of Marketing, 76(1), pp.103-118.

Hotel Rwanda free essay sample

Hotel Rwanda is set in Kigali when there was a chaos in 1994 between the two ethnic groups in Rwanda, Hutu and Tutsi. The story itself centers on Paul Rusesabagina (Don Cheadle), a manager of an extravagant Des Mille Collines hotel in Kigali. The problem between the two ethnic groups arises when the Hutu extremists set out a plan to eradicate all the Tutsis in Kigali. The Hutu extremists even propagate the message that all Tutsis are worth nothing and calling them â€Å"cockroaches† through a radio station. The atrocities escalate when some of the Tutsi rebels murdered the President of Rwanda. Since then, the Hutu extremists became more violent toward the Tutsis and began their genocide of the Tutsis. After that, Paul has to do everything that he can to protect his family. Paul himself is a Hutu, however, his wife, Tatiana (Sophie Okonedo) is a Tutsi. Although in the beginning Paul only wanted to protect his wife and his three children, his conscience made him protect his Tutsi friends and neighbors as well. We will write a custom essay sample on Hotel Rwanda or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page He bribed the militia to spare his family and his neighbors lives and brought them all to Des Mille Collines hotel. During the atrocities, instead of helping, all of the United Nations officials are called back and the European guests and staffs are being evacuated from Rwanda. Rwanda was left to solve its problem without any help. This left Paul in charge of the hotel all by himself. Soon after that, more and more people are coming to the hotel and ask for protection. Thus, the hotel became a refugee camp for around 1000 people. With his intelligence and his overseas political contacts, Paul is trying to save his family and other people from the atrocities of the Hutu extremists. After being threatened by the militia for protecting the Tutsis, in the end Paul managed to save his family and more than 1,200 refugees. Despite only centered around one character, Paul Rusesabagina, Hotel Rwanda gives a clear picture of what happened during the 1994 Rwanda chaos. It highlighted the genocide that occurred because of the separation between the two ethnic groups, and each group thinks they belong in Rwanda more than the other. The film is also successful in showing up the atrocities caused by the ethnic conflict, and stirs the audience emotion and conscience. The division between Hutu and Tutsi has already existed long before the Belgian occupation, but the Belgian made the gap between the two groups larger by privileging the Tutsis more than Hutus (http://www. heinonline. org. ezproxy. lib. monash. edu. au/HOL/ Page? handle=hein. journals/jrefst9div=28collection=journalsset_as_cursor=9men_tab=srchresults). This ethnic division has sparked problems for years. Then, after the Belgian left Rwanda, the political power was given to Hutu group. This gave way to the Hutu extremists who believe that Rwanda is a Hutu land to perform anti-Tutsi propaganda and started the ethnic cleansing. The process of democratization after the Belgian left might be one of the cause that triggered the ethnic conflict in Rwanda. As stated in one of the reading in the Unit Book, many scholars agree that democratization can be problematic in multi-ethnic societies, and often exacerbates existing ethnic problems (Brown, 1997). In the case of Rwanda, when the Hutu gained political power, the ethnic problem between that group and the Tutsi intensified. Furthermore, Brown stated in his article, â€Å"Ethnicity and Violence†, that when the military of a country is loyal to a single ethnic group, then there are prospects of ethnic conflicts that will be hard to manage (Brown, 1997). This problem can be seen in the film, the militia favored the Hutu and contributed to the eradication of the Tutsis. As a result, the ethnic conflict that led to genocide was unavoidable since the military was supposed to help diminish the problem instead of contributing to the conflict. The plot in â€Å"Hotel Rwanda† flows smoothly from the beginning of the ethnic problem in Kigali to the height of the conflict that leads to genocide. The film shows the already existing ethnic problem in the beginning, to the way the military react to the ethnic group, and the genocide that happened soon after that. All of that highlight the causes of the ethnic conflict that are stated in the article â€Å"Ethnicity and Violence†. In conclusion, the film â€Å"Hotel Rwanda† did a good job in portraying the actual ethnic conflict that happened in Rwanda. Although the story itself centered around one character in the film, but the plot can emphasize the

Choate, P. (1986). The High-flex Society. New York Alfred A. Knopf. E

Choate, P. (1986). The high-flex society. New York: Alfred A. Knopf. Koretz, G. (1997). Help wanted by small business. Business Week. August 25, 1997, pp 32. Lynch, M. (1997). Choosers not beggars. Business Week. September 15, 1997, pp 8. Reynolds, A. (1994). Employment crisis: running out of willing workers. SIRS Researcher. October 24, 1994, pp 35+. Shapiro, H.T. (1996). One education way. Colorado Springs: Junior Achievement Inc. Simons, P. (1989). Lets put America back to work. Chicago: Bonus Books. Zycher, B. (1995). Minimal evidence. SIRS Researcher. June, 1995, pp 44-47. Unemployment has been a problem throughout the United States since the beginning of our economic structure. In the most obvious sense, unemployment means "being without a job." The term unemployment is one description of the economic condition of a society at any given time. Low unemployment means the majority of the labor force is involved in, or looking for steady work. On the other hand, high unemployment is an indication of an economy in recession, or even worse. This implies that a sizable percentage of the labor force is not currently working. Until they actually start working again, they will be counted in government data as "unemployed" (Shapiro, 1996). The Bureau of the Census in the Department of Commerce collects and tabulates the unemployment statistics in the united states. Next, this information is given to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) which is held in the labor department. The BLS then calculates the unemployment rate and publishes the statistics. Every month, agents revisit a set amount of households all over the United States. Some economists criticize the government's method of calculating unemployment because it fails to include "discouraged workers" in its data (Shapiro, 1996). "Discouraged workers" include those who have looked for a job over a large period of time and have simply quit. For this reason, critics say, real unemployment may be extensively larger than one might think. Throughout the 1900's there has been numerous polls taken that shocked everyone. The unemployment rate for those who cannot read and write is dramatically higher than for those who can (Simons, 1989). Illiteracy is a hidden problem throughout the United States (Simons, 1989). Another poll taken showed that an estimated 23 percent of Americans can read a stop sign but cannot fill out an employment form. Of those who can read and write, large numbers of adults cannot read and write past the fifth grade level (Zycher, 1995). How are people going to get a job if they are not even able to inform the company of their skills? Another interesting fact, is The severest deficient demand in the United States occurred during the Great Depression in the 1930's. In fact, at one point the unemployment rate had raised to twenty five percent in 1933. Fortunately, after world war one had begun the need for military had decreased the rate to as low as 1.2 percent (Reynolds, 1994). On the other hand, most people did not even pay any attention to the unemployment rate, because the considered laziness to be the main cause. Several possibilities have been speculated, but none have been proven to be the single cause of high unemployment. It is plainly clear that there have been several problems that play a role when the unemployment rate increases. Indeed, the experience of the past several decades suggest that no simple, quick, or radical remedy can eliminate the multitude of choke-points that are strangling U.S. economic and political processes (Choate,1986). Causes of unemployment can vary. Some economists have defined several types of unemployment. One type is frictional unemployment. This is a temporary and unavoidable period of time where a person is out of the work force. According to One education way, "There are always some people who are out of work for completely unavoidable reasons" (Shapiro, 1996, P.151). Another example, is when technological and other changes cause structural unemployment. There are also clinical changes in which changes in general business occur. "Peak" is a period of time when spending amounts are extremely high along with employment rates. After a period of "peak", activity consumers and business' reduce unemployment rates along with their spending levels. As this spending falls, other business firms begin to cut back on their spending. As spending

Personality profile Elyn Saks Essays

Personality profile Elyn Saks Essays Personality profile Elyn Saks Paper Personality profile Elyn Saks Paper Personality profile Elyn Saks BY poltna888 Running head: PERSONALITY PROFLIE OF ELYN SAKS Personality Profile of Elyn Saks Abstract The current personality profile looks at Elyn Saks personality. Elyn Saks is a high- achiever diagnosed with schizophrenia. She began to have the symptoms in the early childhood, but managed to live with them. Currently, she is a professor at University of Southern California Law School and adjunct professor of psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego. Her personality is analyzed using multiple classical approaches of personality psychology represented by such famous theorists s Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung, Erik Erickson, Hans Eysenck, Gordon Allport, Burrhus Frederick Skinner, Albert Bandura, and Abraham Maslow. As he main source, her autobiographical book The Center Cannot Hold: My Journey Through Madness was used (Hyperion, 2007). Theory of Sigmund Freud Sigmund Freud is the founder of Psychoanalysis. Psychoanalysis focuses on the unconscious aspects of personality, of which a person is unaware. The conscious on the other hand is that which is within our awareness. In 1923 Freud described his constructs of the d, ego, and superego. The id is the most primitive part of our ersonality. It operates according to the pleasure principle and it simply seeks immediate gratification. Freud believed that the unconscious possesses the libido, a flowing, dynamic force. The ego is extremely objective and operates according to the reality principle, dealing with the demands of the environment. It regulates the flow ot libido and keeps the id in check, thus acting as a control center ot the personality. It is the superego, which represents the values and standards of an individuals personality. The superego is a characteristic of the personality which strives for perfection. Freud placed great importance on the early years of childhood and introduced psychosexual development stages (oral, anal, phallic, a period of latency, and genital). If a child spends more time in a particular stage then he/she ought to, it leads to a fixation or an incomplete development of the personality. A critical event during the first five years of life is the experience of Oedipus and Electra conflicts (boys sexual attraction toward their mothers and girls sexual attraction toward their fathers, correspondingly). Another major aspect of psychoanalysis is the development of defense mechanisms. According to the theory efense mechanisms are used by the ego to protect the person from anxiety. They include repression, reaction formation, denial, projection, displacement, sublimation, regression, and rationalization. Psychoanalysis is also a therapy. It is based on the observation that individuals are often unaware of many of the factors that determine their emotions and behavior. Psychoanalytic treatment demonstrates how these unconscious factors affect current relationships and patterns of behavior, traces them back to their historical origins, shows how they have changed, and helps individuals to deal better with the realities of adult life. Elyn Saks from the Prospective of Sigmund Freuds Theory One of the best theories to analyze Elyn Saks personality is psychoanalytic theory. In her book The Center Cannot Hold, Elyn (2007) claims that her talk therapy, based on psychoanalysis, is as important for her as antipsychotic medication. Moreover, in addition to being a legal professor at the University of South California, she is a research clinical associate at the New Center for Psychoanalysis. Although, Elyn herself prefers Kleinian analysis (a treatment advocating that patients unleash their fantasies during sessions), it found its origin in the work of Sigmund Freud. I will attempt to analyze Elyns personality using several concepts of Freudian theory, such as the structure of the mind, psychosexual development, and defense mechanisms. Also, I will tell why Kleinian analysis worked for Elyn better than Freudian. In my opinion, Elyns id is strongly suppressed by ego and superego. She never let her sexual libido rule her life. Elyn has an exemplary ability to delay gratification. However, there were several occasions when she followed the pleasure principle, which was in her adolescent period (somewhere in genital stage, according to Freud). She tried illegal drugs: marijuana and mescaline, and Elyn learnt what kind of consequences it brings about. After use of mescaline, her hallucinations persisted, and she felt cognitively dysfunctional for a long time. Also, according to update research, use of marijuana in adolescent period can trigger the onset of schizophrenia (Eggan Lewis, 2006). However, in later life, I cannot mention any bright examples of Elyns id acting out. Her ego kept the id in control, and dealt with the problems of real world more than successfully despite the devastating effect of schizophrenia. She did not lose the ability to plan and act in order to achieve any goal. Regardless the burden of the thought disorder, Elyn solved real problems sometimes better than a person without any mental illness. She planned her career, passed her exams and wrote the best papers, as well as managed her finances. I t proves that Elyns ego is very strong. But, in my opinion, ner superego is even stronger and has ascendency over her personality. Elyn strived for the perfection; it mostly reveals in her academic achievement. Her high moral standards include helping others. For example, she volunteered provide advocacy for a mentally etarded patient, in order for him to move from the hospital back into community. One of Elyns most important moral rules, which was instilled from the childhood, is the belief that she must be strong and fght it, as well as that she can take everything under her control. This feature of her superego helps her to cope with the symptoms of schizophrenia: she tried to act normal while psychosis, she ignored everyday hallucinations and kept working in spite of the cognitive symptoms. However, sometimes superego made her fell into a pitfall. Her ideal self wanted her to be in control of everything, including her mental illness. It led her to the false assumption about her ability to live without medication, and subdue schizophrenia independently. Her superego made her experimenting with the tapering and, as a consequence, falling into crisis plenty of times. It took her long years to realize that sometimes we cannot fight it on our own, and tame this aspect of her superego. Looking at Elyns psychosexual development, it is possible to trace her fixation at the oral stage. She fits the definition of a person who seeks interesting experiences (her experiments with drugs) and knowledge (constant reading and academic achievement). Also, she derived pleasure from being close to others. Although, her mental illness hobbles her in social aspect, she always finds friends and connects to them very strongly. For example, after her friends, Kenny and Margie, left the Vanderbilt University, she sobbed for hours, inconsolable, and for weeks afterwards, had no energy, no focus (p. 48). Each separation for her was a tragedy (the most painful one was with her first therapist, Mrs. Jones). Elyn was attached to her family and all her therapists. Also, she reached full happiness, when her dream about the mate came to fruition, and she met her husband Will. In addition to all those attributes of the fixation at oral stage, Elyn smoked for a long time. Among the defense mechanisms, Elyn used denial most vividly. At some point of her life, Elyns ego was threatened to acknowledge that she had the mental illness. She denied the fact that it is permanent and not Just a transient problem. In the same manner, she denied the constant need for medication. Fortunately, her therapists and friends helped her to admit those facts and she coped with the problems successfully without employing the denial defense mechanism. As I have mentioned earlier, for the treatment of schizophrenia, Elyn Saks referred Kleinian psychoanalysis to Freudian one. According to Freud, psychosis is too narcissistic, too inward-looking, to allow the patient to develop a transference relationship with the analyst (intense feelings, beliefs, and attitudes the patient unconsciously recalls from early life and then directs to the analyst), which is crucial for the clients progress (Freud, 1924). In contrast, Melanie Klein believed that people with psychosis could benefit from analysis and that the necessary transference would develop. It was her theory that psychotic individuals are filed with (even driven y) great anxiety, and that the way to provide relief is to focus directly on the deepest sources of that anxiety (Klein, 1975). During the sessions, the patient is given the freedom to reveal all hidden fantasies and pronounce all inappropriate thoughts. For that reason, Elyn, being most ot the time in control ot ner disorganized thoughts and emotions, found help in this type of treatment. In public, she suppressed all the features of her illness, while at the therapists office she was given an opportunity to reduce the tension. Also, in my opinion, her fixation at the oral stage with the affixed o it proneness for dependency and attachment, assisted Elyn in the development of the transference. The Theory of Carl Jung Carl Jung was a founder of analytical psychology (Friedman Schustack, 2003). He is best known for his theories of the collective unconscious, including the concept of archetypes and complexes. Along with Sigmund Freud, Jung pioneered modern theories of the relationships between the conscious and unconscious aspects of mind. But while Freud postulated a psychosexual explanation for human behavior, Jung perceived the primary motivating force to be spiritual in origin. According to Jung, it was from the soul that the complementary drives of differentiation and integration arose, fueling the processes of growth, development, and healing. Mental illness arose when these processes were thwarted. Jung emphasized each persons uniqueness and believed that the goal of life is individuation, the process of coming to know, giving expression to, and harmonizing the various components of the psyche. Also, in his theory distinguished two general attitudes introversion and extraversion; and four functions thinking, feeling, sensing, and intuiting. In addition, Jungs theory incorporates the notion of two opposing archetypes that represent the differences between our outward appearances (persona) and our inner selves (shadow). Other two important archetypes are the animus (the male element of a woman) and anima (the female element of a man). Elyn Saks from the Prospective of Carl Jungs Theory I find it difficult to apply some of Carl Jungs unique concepts, such as complexes and collective unconsciousness, analyzing personality of Elyn Saks. Among archetypes, I would use only two in order to explain Elyns personality. Also, Jungs attitudes and unctions are quite helpful, too. Complexes are unconscious and repressed emotionally-toned symbolic material that is incompatible with consciousness. According to Jung, they can cause constant psychological disturbances, but, with proper intervention, they can become conscious that will greatly reduce their impact (Friedman Schustack, 2003). Applying this notion to Elyns personality, and, particularly, to her diagnosis, the controversial opinions might arouse. On one hand, schizophrenia is proved to be organic disorder of the brain, and, thus, cannot be caused by the complexes (Friedman Schustack, 2003). On the other hand, psychoanalysis based on revealing emotionally charged feeling, thoughts, and ideas that were suppressed into unconsciousness, which Jung defines as complexes, helped Elyn to maintain the balance and cope with her disease (Saks, 2007). The collective unconscious is a large group of archetypes (powerful emotional symbols) (Friedman Schustack, 2003) that are derived from the emotional reactions of our ancestors to continually repeating events. Examples would be the magician, hero, and the trickster. I could not discern any of those archetypes, or similar to them, in he personality of Elyn Saks. Also, I think that Jungs believe that the origin of mental illness is the soul does not explain schizophrenia of Elyn Saks (and of any other person) in any aspect. However, Elyn can be analyzed from the perspective of Jungs attitudes and tunctions. In my opinion, Elyns nature is extroversion . She is in need for sociability, and close people are a source of energy for her. In her adolescent years, previous to the onset of her illness, she enjoyed going out with friends. But, unfortunately, schizophrenia marked her for life as an introvert. She became more eflective and in need for privacy and space, especially when her symptoms begin to appear. Also, in my opinion, among four functions of Jungs theory, thinking and feeling functions are the most developed in Elyns personality. The fact that she graduated with the degree in philosophy from Oxford University proves that she has unquestionable logic (with the exception of while having a psychosis). She sees cause and effect relations in every situation, a quality without which she would not be able to achieve what she did. Elyns feeling function remained intact by schizophrenia as well: she is creative, warm, and intimate. She did not lose the sense of positive and negative values; she was able to create multiple bonds with other people and a happy family. Although Elyns sensing function must have been devastated by her illness, the vivid and exact description of psychosis and disturbed senses in the book The Center Cannot Hold might imply extraordinary sensing function in Elyn. As for intuitive function, I think it was rarely employed in her life: she has always relied on reasoning and Judgment more than on intuition. One of my favorite Jungs archetypes, persona and shadow, are very applicable in description Elyn Saks personality. Moreover, she also identified them in her book, but under different names. Persona, or the mask we present to the world, is designed to make a particular impression on others, while concealing our true nature. Elyns persona is Professor Saks, who represents herself to the society as structured and official high- achiever. One of Elyns shadows (the side of the personality, which she does not consciously display in public) is Lady of Charts, a woman diagnosed with schizophrenia, sometimes pinioned to the hospitals bed, disheveled and emaciated. Another shadow is Elyn, warm, sensitive, and strong women. This shadow is esponsible for keeping Lady of Charts far away in the closet, as well as for discouraging Professor Saks to take everything, including schizophrenia, under total control. During one of the therapeutic sessions, Elyns doctor, encouraged her to transfer Elyn from shadow status to persona status, by disclosing those three sides of her personality and advising to associate her Self with Elyn, more than with any other (Saks, 2003). The Theory of Erik Erikson Erikson was a Neo-Freudian (Friedman Schustack, 2003). He has been described as an ego psychologist studying the stages of development, spanning the entire lifespan. Each of Eriksons stages of psychosocial development is marked by a conflict, for which successful resolution will result in a favorable outcome, for example, trust vs. mistrust, and by an important event that this conflict resolves itself around, for example, meaning of ones life. Favorable outcomes of each stage are sometimes known as virtues (Erikson, 1963). Eriksons research suggests that each individual must learn how to hold both extremes of each specific life-stage challenge in tension with one another, not rejecting one end of the tension or the other. Only when both extremes in a lite-stage challenge are underst nd accepted as botn required and useful, the optimal virtue for that stage can surface (Bukatko Daehler, 2004). The Erikson life-stage virtues, in the order of the stages in which they may be acquired, are: (1) Trust vs. Mistrust, (2) Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt, (3) Initiative vs. Guilt (4) Industry vs. Inferiority, (5) Identity vs. Role Confusion, (6) Intimacy vs. Isolation, (7) Generatively vs. Stagnation, and (8) Ego Integrity vs. Despair. Elyn Saks from the Prospective of Erik Eriksons Theory I think Erik Eriksons theory of psychosocial development is useful in explaining Elyns ersonality. In my opinion, on the stages she has already gone through, she resolved most of the conflicts successfully. I believe on the first stage, during the first year of life, we can conclude that Elyn developed the trust and hope. She gained confidence and security in the world around her because her parents were loving, hardworking, and more often than not, kind (p. 11). In other words, her caregivers were reliable enough to provide her with the background that helped her trust the people around her (e. g. , her therapists) and not to give up in the battle with her mental illness. On he second stage, which takes place between age one and three, Elyn acquired autonomy and will. Assumingly, her parents did not criticize or overly control her, but rather gave Elyn the opportunity to assert herself by encouraging and supporting her increased independence. Due to this reason, she became more confident and secure in her own ability to survive in the world. She left parents home when she started college, and since then she was able to maintain her independence throughout her life in spite of the difficulties she faced. That developed a remarkable will in her personality, which is indicated in every aspect of her life (e. . , achievement in career, coping with schizophrenia symptoms, ability to delay gratification). On the third stage (age 3-6), Elyn resolved the conflict toward initiative and purpose. It can be inferred from her book that Elyns parents did not control her to the point of being excessive and criticize her own decisions. They were tolerant even to her little quirks (e. g. , aligning shoes Just right, or washing hands several times). As a consequence, Elyn developed a sense of initiative and the ability to lead others and make decisions. On the fourth stage (age 6 to puberty), Elyn developed the sense of ndustry. She was encouraged and reinforced for her accomplishments (e. g. , good grades), especially by her mom: Dad was not a praiser, so he never complimented anyone. But Mom did, and Warren [brother] and I competed for her attention (p. 15). It developed the feeling of confidence in her ability to achieve the goals, which played a crucial role in reaching her full potential. Her industry helped her to acquire the notable competence in different areas: philosophy, law, and mental illness. However, during her adolescent years, Elyn resolved the conflict of the fifth stage toward nfavorable outcome: role confusion. According to Erikson, during this period, adolescents explore possibilities and begin to form their own identity based upon the outcome of their explorations. Elyns explorations that started in Mexico led to the drug use, and her parents did not want her to explore in this direction. After she stated that if she wanted to use pot, she would, and there is not much you can do about it (p. 25), her parents sent her to rehabilitation center. She had to conform. As a result, she had difficulty to answer such questions as Who am l? How do I fit in? Where am I going in life? As a result, took her many years before she settled down in the protessional aspect: tirst sne got ner degree in philosophy, and only atterwards she realized that she wants to go to law school. On the sixth stage, which starts in young adulthood, Elyn acquired the sense of intimacy and love. She developed many long-term close friend relationships. Although, she did not settle down in young adulthood because she still was in school, as soon as she acquired a tenure (middle adulthood), she made a long-term commitment with her husband, Will. Currently, Elyn is on the seventh stage of her psychosocial development. During this stage the measures of accomplishments and failures takes place. I can make the prognosis that Elyn will solve the conflict on this stage toward the favorable outcome, generatively. She has achieved a lot in her career; she is settled in the relationships; she published a book that helped thousands of people; she is still learning a lot (the attendance of the school of psychoanalysis). In my opinion, there are no indications for her settling with stagnation. Similarly, I would predict favorable outcome (Ego- Integrity) on the eight stage of Elyns life. However, she still has it ahead of her. The Theory of Hans Eysenck Eysencks theory is based primarily on physiology and genetics (Friedman Schustack, 2003). Although he is a behaviorist who considers learned habits of great importance, he considers personality differences as growing out of our genetic inheritance. He is, therefore, primarily interested in what is usually called temperament. Eysencks original research found three main dimensions of temperament: neuroticism, extraversion-introversion, and psycoticism. Neuroticism is the factor that Eysenck determined encompassed people who are calm and collected to those who are high strung or nervous. A primary example of this is a persons response to emergencies. Some people are calm and able to deal with things, some are fearful and emotional, and some are terrified by even minor incidence. Eysenck hypothesized that explanation to this might be that neurotic people have a more responsive sympathetic nervous system than others. The introversion-extroversion concept includes the idea that extroverts have a relatively low brain arousal, and so they seek stimulation. Introverts, on the other hand, are thought to have a higher level of central nervous system arousal, and so they tend to shy away from timulating social environments. Psychoticism includes the tendency toward a psychopathology, involving impulsivity and cruelty, tough-mindedness, and shrewdness. High psychoticism does not mean a person is psychotic or doomed to become so. According to Eysenck, he/she exhibits some qualities commonly found among psychotics, and may be more susceptible, given certain environments, to becoming psychotic. The qualities found in high psychoticistic people include certain recklessness, a disregard for common sense or conventions, and a degree of inappropriate emotional expression (Friedman Schustack, 2003). Elyn Saks from the Prospective of Hans Eysencks Theory In my opinion, only a part of Hans Eysencks Theory explains the personality of Elyn Saks. I would identify her as highly neurotic and introvert, but, perhaps, surprisingly, I am hesitant to call her psychotistic. I think Elyn is definitely neuroticistic and introverted. Eysenck identified that people with obsessive-compulsive disorders and phobias tended to be high on neuroticism and introversion (Eysenck, 1967). He explained it by hypothesizing that highly neuroticistic people over-respond to fearful stimuli. It hey are introverts, they will learn to avoid the situations that cause panic very quickly and very thoroughly, even to the point of becoming panicky at small indications of those situations. In one of her interviews, Elyn confessed: l was fearful. I had some phobias. I had some obsessions. I had some kind of intense fears (Saks, 2008). It is confirmed in her book (Saks, 2007). For example, in the childhood she could not leave her room unless her shoes were all lined up, she could not go to sleep until her books were organized Just so (p. 11), and she had to wash her hand sometimes two or three times. Also, she had some irrational fears (similar to the fear of bogyman) much longer than other children. Evaluating Elyn on the third dimension of Eysencks model, psychoticism, I tend to think of her personality as of non-psychotistic. Although Elyn is schizophrenic and has lots of psychotic episodes, which sometimes include even homicide ideation, it is unjustifiable to call her personality psychoticistic. Eysenck attributes to those people such qualities as impulsivity, cruelty, and tough-mindedness, which are Just the opposite of the Elyns personality most of the time, while she is stable and non-psychotic (Friedman Schustack, 2003). This controversial situation proves once more that our psyche is very complex, and it is difficult to differentiate some of its aspects. The Theory of Gordon Allport Allport is known as a trait psychologist. He argued that some characteristics of human personality are shared (he termed these common traits) and some are peculiar to the individual (he termed those personal dispositions). Personal dispositions that exercise an overwhelming influence on behavior are called cardinal dispositions. Personal dispositions that are the basic building blocks that shape most f our behavior (although they are not as overwhelming as cardinal traits) are called central traits. Central traits are general characteristic found in some degree in every person. An example of a central trait would be honesty (Friedman Schustack, 2003). Elyn Saks from the Prospective of Gordon Allports Theory Theory of Gordon Allport does a very good Job in explaining Elyns personality due to the fact that Allport concentrated on the uniqueness of personality (Friedman Schustack, 2003). Cardinal disposition of Elyn Saks can probably be assigned to her being a highly functioning person with schizophrenia (Saks, 2007). Her central dispositions are probably constant seeking of knowledge and striving for the control over ones life. Also, such common traits as desire for success and achievement- motivation are explicit in Elyns personality. The Theory of Burrhus Frederick Skinner Skinners concept of operant conditioning assumes that the behavior that is reinforced is more likely to be repeated in the future, and less likely to be repeated if punished. Skinner argued that responses shaped by environmental consequences, taken together, are what we call personality. He emphasized that environment is of rimary importance even in hereditary characteristics. According to Skinner, psychopathology is learned in the same manner as all other behaviors: the adaptive or maladaptive behavior is learned by reinforcement (Friedman Schustack, 2003). Elyn Saks from the Prospective of B. F. Skinners Theory In my opinion, Skinners theory explains some aspects of personality (behavior) of Elyn Saks, while some of the concepts I find not to be applicable. I think Elyns achievement-motivation can be explained by the fact that she was reinforced from the early child by ner parents to attain goals, such as good grades (Saks Also, her desire for control over her life is probably quite conditioned. Her parents, as well as people at rehabilitation center, praised her for being in control. For example, while being a teenager, she lost a lot of weight by controlling her diet. Her parents wanted her to put the weight back on, and they could do it only by challenging her to prove that she is in control (p. 6). After she came back to her normal weight, they stopped reprimanding her, which is the example of negative reinforcement. However, Skinners explanation of psychopathology, in my opinion, does not fit Elyn. Skinner claimed that people with mental problems have either not learned the appropriate response and have a behavioral deficit, or they have learned the wrong response. Thus the treatment for mental illness is to create environmental se ttings that reward desirable behavior (Friedman Schustack, 2003). Although, this approach works quite well for children with cognitive and emotional disabilities, I think it does not in case of schizophrenia. It is widely known that schizophrenia is a brain disorder, not a learned behavior, and general clinical practice, as well as Elyns personal example, proves it. The Theory of Albert Bandura The main concept of Banduras theory is observational learning, or vicarious learning, which is also called modeling because a person forms himself or herself in the image of another. Bandura theorized mechanisms by which people can learn simply by watching others perform a behavior. They learn without performing the behavior themselves and without being directly rewarded or punished for the behavior (Friedman Schustack, 2003). Elyn Saks from the Prospective of Albert Banduras Theory In my opinion, it is almost impossible to explain Elyn Saks personality by Albert Banduras theory, using the references I possess. None of them provide information about her using a model for any type of Elyns behavior. Describing her childhood, she does not refer to anybody, even her parents, as a role model. I guess she was learning primary through operant conditioning than through observational learning. The Theory of Abraham Maslow Abraham MasloWs name is strongly associated with the hierarchy of needs (Friedman Schustack, 2003). His hierarchy includes: physiological needs, safety needs, belongingness and love needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization motives. Maslow emphasized the importance of self-actualization, or the innate process by hich one tends to grow spiritual and realize ones potential (Friedman Schustack, 2003). Elyn Saks from the Prospective of Abraham MasloWs Theory From the MasloWs view point, Elyn most likely would be defined as self-actualized person. Self-actualized people tend to be independent, resist social pressures, and freedom-loving, and have a high need for privacy (Friedman Schustack, 2003). Elyn fits all of those definitions, in my opinion. She went through the process of establishing herself as a whole person and developed the abilities to understand herself. As a result, she self-actualized herself in her career. At University of Southern California, she throws herself into writing and spends nearly every waking hour in her crowded office in the law school. Since her arrival at USC, she has been among the schools most productive and respected scholarly writers (University of Southern California Faculty Directory, 2008). Furthermore, the main aspect of her self- actualization is the desire to help other people witn mental illness and their tamilies. During the presentation of her book, she states: l wanted to write this book to give hope to people who suffer from schizophrenia and understanding to people who ont hope this story will help implode the myths that surround mental illness. Moreover, revealing her secret, she realized that her hard-earned career could come crashing down. A colleague suggested that Saks write under a pseudonym. But Elyn refused to that because that would send the wrong message, as she explained (Saks, 2008). Elyn, her colleague reasoned, do you want to be known as a schizophrenic with a Job? And she did have her doubts, because even while properly medicated, she still harbors several irrational thoughts each day, but she manages to dismiss the obsessions. However, she published her book, and now it gets wonderful reviews from prestigious publishers, doctors, as well as patients and their families, whom this book gave a real hope. Summary Elyn R. Saks, training to be a psychoanalyst, specializes in mental health law, criminal law, and children and the law. Her recent research focused on ethical dimensions of psychiatric research and forced treatment of the mentally ill. She also teaches at the Institute of Psychiatry and the Law at the Keck School of Medicine at USC and is an adjunct professor of psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego. In her capacity as associate dean, Dean Saks oversees research and grants at USC Law. Before Joining the USC Law faculty in 1989, Dean Saks was an attorney in Connecticut and instructor at the University of Bridgeport School of Law. She graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University before earning her master of letters from Oxford University and her J. D. from Yale Law School, where she also edited the Yale Law Journal. To analyze her personality, it was beneficial to look at it from the many theoretical perspectives provided by personality psychology. These approaches

Psychology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 15

Psychology - Essay Example This model of memory remained under extensive research in the following years. The physical growth in size of cerebrum and the number of functions associated with this evolved cerebrum demonstrates an important step in the evolutionary ladder of natural life. Memory is one of the very complicated functions of complex life forms and this complexity reaches its maximum when Homo sapiens are analyzed. Atkinson-Shiffrin model of memory is an attempt to explain the various processes of memory which continue to operate in our brains. The first level of memory is identified as sensory memory. No matter which kind of stimulus is applied to the various senses of the body, the form of information that is delivered to the central nervous system is in the form of electrical impulse or the so called ‘nerve impulse’. For the purpose of translation of external stimuli, a number of receptors are present in the body, that continuously receive impulses in the form of vibration, sound, pressure, light and so on. These impulses are translated into electrical nerve impulses by their respective receptors and are then delivered to the brain as electrical signals. This sensory memory has a very short life span and it persists for only a few seconds i.e 2-3 seconds. The stage between sensory memory and long term memory is called short term memory. Certain chunks of information from sensory memory are shifted to short term memory which is also called working memory because the information stored there needs further processing. Short term memory easily fades away as soon as attention is drawn to any other matter; it lasts for only 18 to 20 seconds unless the information is rehearsed. Any information that is not lost after 18 to 20 seconds is transferred to long term memory. The capacity of short-term memory is limited and it is for this reason that only a small amount of information can be retained in short-term memory