Gender Inequality Of The United States - 1363 Words

â€Å"You won’t get paid. As a woman and of color, you’re going to be underpaid, so there’s really no point,† Daniel recalled (â€Å"Career and Workplace† 4). A future law graduate was told to throw away her dreams in regards to gender inequality. A girl named Reshma Daniel had to give up what she loved most because of a situation regarding both her race and gender. Reshma Daniel’s parents moved to America from India with just a couple dollars. Her parents wanted their children to live the American life. For Daniel, that simply meant law school. While at Nova in Southeastern University in Florida, she majored in legal studies and job shadowed a family lawyer. After a pretrial hearing had taken place, another lawyer, a Vietnamese woman, told Daniel†¦show more content†¦It does no one any good, so why is it continuing to happen? All it does is harm. â€Å"If people in the world forever choose to live by â€Å"guidelines† of gen der inequality, then the line that separates men and women will forever be thick† (Kimble 1). Throughout history, women have faced intense discrimination. Discrimination is the unfair or detrimental treatment of different groups of people or things, especially on the ground levels of race, age, or sex. Women have faced intense discrimination from a shortage of legal rights and very little freedom from their husbands, to being thought to have minor brains. In many societies, women have forever been viewed as less than fully human (â€Å"News Wise† 1). On one hand, there has been great progress toward equality. At the same time, extensive and noticeable holes remain. These holes that still exist are not only in terms of economic inequality and continuing intolerance and harassment in the workplace, but in everyday conversations and actions (â€Å"Divided America† 6). While significant achievements for women s rights have been made, women continue to fight for equal ity today. They do not give up, they give it their all. Giving up would do no good. In 2015, women made seventy-eight cents for every dollar earned by a man (â€Å"White House† 6). â€Å"By 2018, there will be 1.4 million open technology jobs in the United States, and at the current rate of studentsShow MoreRelatedGender Inequality : The United States939 Words   |  4 PagesGender inequality has been an issue in the United States of America since the very founding of the country. Many believe that the sexes are equal in the United States of today because nearly a hundred years ago women gained the right to vote but this was not the only hurdle we needed to surmount. Gender inequality is alive and thriving even today, and although this is definitely not the only issue American women face today, it can be seen in something called the wage gap. It is commonly known thatRead MoreGender Inequality Within The United States1531 Words   |  7 Pageswe can see there is a trend implicates that the gender roles are slowly starting to change but the gender stereotype still have stayed firmly over the years in North America even though people are now more aware of the problem of gender inequality. In North America, gender roles between women and men are now being shared more equally in workspace due to the feminism movements and higher literacy level of women, but there are still gender inequality existing in our society. Feminism movements haveRead MoreGender Inequality Within The United States1701 Words   |  7 PagesGender has had a repeating effect on the choice of careers for people all throughout the United States. In history, it is taught that males dominated women in many careers, while women dominated males in only a few other minor positions. Males had an upper hand over women in engineering and in the military. One of the reasons males dominated was the idea of dominance over women has been passed down for centuries. It was never common for a women to be an engineer of a home or anything that wasn’tRead MoreGender Inequality Within The United States1879 Words   |  8 Pagesand colonization has evolved, gender in the United States has been constructed in a manner that is unknown in other countries. Our society has made different stereotypes for certain sexes. It is socially impossible to not make a collation between sex and gender in the United States. Women are viewed the same in the professional world and in the home life perspective. All roles played by women are considered to be inadequate or insignificant compared to men. Gender characteristics, such as masculinityRead MoreGender Inequality During The United States1971 Words   |  8 PagesCorona 1 Yailin Corona Honors English 11-4 Junior Research Paper 3 March 2016 Gender Inequality in the U.S. For years, women have been viewed as weak, indecisive, and subjective. Women have become more empowered since their suffrage and earning their rights. Although, they have their rights, women are not equal to men in today’s society because of unequal pay and discrimination. The pay between the two gender in recent college graduates and stabilized jobs opt towards males. Women are discriminatedRead MoreGender Inequality Within The United States2702 Words   |  11 PagesGender Inequality In the United States there are many human equal rights for women but they are insufficient to create equality. Despite of many equality rules gender inequality still exists and that’s the fact. In history women were not allowed to study or work. In modern world women are achieving education goals and also working. Does that mean women are getting equal treatments? The answer is no, women are not treated as equally as men. The graduation rates for women are higher then men, butRead MoreGender Inequality Within The United States1686 Words   |  7 PagesThere have been many advances in society, especially for women despite these advancements, there continues to be inequalities in sexual â€Å"equality† .Why does a wage difference exists between men and women? Are employers being sexist? Sexism has been a problem since the beginning of mankind. Women have struggled to achieve equality with men. The male dominated culture has led the female gender to become the â€Å"wea ker sex†. This discrimination, of course, based on the stereotype that women should be stayRead MoreGender Inequality Within The United States1410 Words   |  6 PagesEquality Among Gender Both within and across different cultures we find great consistency in standards of desirable gender-role behavior. Males are expected to be independent, assertive, and competitive; females are expected to be more passive, sensitive, and supportive. These beliefs have changed over the past twenty years within the United States and apparently around the world as well. Therefore, modern society has been trying for the past decade to eliminate all of these stereotypes and doubleRead MoreGender Inequality Within The United States Of The English Department Of Ku.881 Words   |  4 PagesIn today s society we have gender inequality without us even knowing we are doing it, because it is how we are all raised. From when a lot of us were younger we have seen everyone else â€Å" doing gender† so we have picked up on it.By doing gender we create different levels that men and women are put on. These levels are not natural they are man made. The culture we are raised in assigns and crea tes for us the different attributes and behaviors. Since we are aware of the expectations that are held overRead MoreGender Inequality : A Good Understanding Of The Social Inequality Essay1487 Words   |  6 PagesAs a female college student I feel the necessity to have a good understanding of the social inequalities around me. Although, women have socially grown with more power over the years, it is not enough to equalize with the men. For example, the pay gap difference between men and women for not having the â€Å"testosterone bonus† even though the same education and qualifications are present. I hope that over time I will be able to experience a change and have the same equal rights as men because I feel

Academic Dishonesty Essay - 1197 Words

In the past decade, professors across the country have noticed an alarming new trend—academic dishonesty is on the rise. More than half of college students surveyed admit to at least one instance of serious cheating in the past year (McCabe and Pavela). Information is incredibly easy to access on the Internet, and devices such as iPhones put that power, literally, into the palms of students’ hands. Many students entering universities today face extraordinary amounts of pressure for results academically, leading them to believe that cheating is necessary to succeed. This mentality is further cemented by examples in mass media, from professional athletes to CEOs cheating in order to get ahead. To battle this trend, colleges across the†¦show more content†¦According to Charles A. Perkins, Ph.D. and Anne A. Skleder, Ph.D, â€Å"most systems presume that the great majority are honorable and honest and that the Code is in place to punish violators. This approach is faulty because it is based upon the (false) presumption that the rules are understood and built on a foundation well established prior to arriving at college.† Students come to college with bad habits developed in high school regarding their completing their schoolwork honestly. Also, many already feel that cheating can be justified on a case-by-case basis, so honor codes do not actually dissuade them from doing it. Also, I do not feel that it is the place of colleges to impose moral standards on their students. For example, the students at Brigham Young University face regulations on every part of their lives, from their academic work, to their personal appearance, to their sexual expression. According to Stanley Fish in his work Save the World On Your Own Time, this type of education is not the university’s job, â€Å"the practices of responsible citizenship and moral behavior should be encouraged in our young adults, but it’s not the business of the univers ity to do so† (Fish 67). If honor codes tread into this territory, it serves the exact opposite of its intended purpose. Honor codes made to protect the integrity of the university will actually undermine it when they try to teach morality. Fish calls professors who try to cultivateShow MoreRelatedAcademic Plagiarism And Academic Dishonesty932 Words   |  4 Pagescontributor to academic dishonesty. Forgetting to study can cause those who would not usually cheat to stoop low and look at someone else s work. Some students rely on cheating to make their way through high school or college. Academic dishonesty is a way lazy students take advantage of hard working students. Whether the academic dishonesty is caused because of the lack of preparation, a poor work ethic, or by having a poor home life; it usually leads to violating academic dishonesty school policiesRead MoreThe Issue Of Academic Dishonesty1416 Words   |  6 Pagestechnology, academic dishonesty cases in every coll ege and university have greatly multiplied and become a global issue. The issue on cheating behaviors in students is so pervasive and uncontrollable that it is almost considered as commonplace (Arhin Jones, 2009). One of the hardest challenges for educators is knowing how and when to discipline their students. In the given scenario, there are several issues to take into account; the first and foremost being the issue of academic dishonesty. â€Å"AcademicRead MoreShould Cheating Be Academic Dishonesty? Essay1071 Words   |  5 Pagesfind it surprising that students cheat in college or university. McCabe, Trevino Butterfield (2001) offer many explanations as in why students commit academic dishonesty, such as peer influences. Although the findings of this study still can be applied today I argue a new study should consider the use of technology in regards to academic dishonesty. With the rise of technology, it has become much easier for students to cheat on exams and papers. For instance, people can cheat on exams with theRead MoreAcademic Dishonesty Is Defined By Wikipedia1199 Words   |  5 PagesAcademic Dishonesty Rhett Anderson EDUC-6380-70Y July 15th, 2014 Abstract Academic Dishonesty is defined by Wikipedia as, Any type of cheating that occurs in relation to a formal academic exercise. It is becoming a large epidemic that is hurting both students and teachers. With the high pressure that our society puts on success is making students justify cheating in order to get ahead. There any many forms of cheating that occur in a school setting. In this paper we are going to focus on theRead MoreAcademic Dishonesty : The Technological Era2061 Words   |  9 PagesAcademic Dishonesty: The Technological Era Introduction Academic dishonesty has become a growing concern for colleges and universities worldwide. The unethical morale students portray challenges the institutions to question students’ motives. According to Kirkpatrick (2015) the surveys indicate sixty-five to seventy-five percent of college students admit to cheating at least one time. The numbers rise, due to the advancement of technology, enabling students to cheat effortlessly. In addition, facultyRead MoreAcademic Dishonesty : Cheating And Plagiarism1899 Words   |  8 Pages There are myriad examples in academic history that one could identify that not only tarnished the reputations of the culprits but also sullied the reputation of the institution as to where they were a part of. Furthermore, there are many different types of academic violations: cheating, plagiarism, fabrication, etc. These distinct infractions have greater effects on the represented institution economically, socially, and holistically than those imposed on the offenders themselves. In order toRead MoreAcademic Integrity : Types Of Academic Dishonesty And Prevention Methods1743 Words   |  7 Pages Academic Integrity: Types of academic dishonesty and prevention methods Chetan Muppaneni Webster University Academic Integrity: Types of academic dishonesty and prevention methods Abstract This paper discusses the different types of academic dishonesty and the prevention measures that are taken to maintain academic integrity. The need of following the codes/rules of the institutions and to promote the academic integrity is mainly on the students and the faculty. The paper discussesRead MoreLegal Issue Scenario : Academic Dishonesty997 Words   |  4 PagesLegal Issue Scenario: Academic Dishonesty Technology is rapidly evolving and changing, and as a result of the increasing availability and propagation of several forms of technology, academic dishonesty cases in every college and university have greatly multiplied and become a global issue. The issue on cheating behaviors in students is so pervasive and uncontrollable that it is almost considered as commonplace (Arhin Jones, 2009). One of the hardest challenges for educators is knowing howRead MoreCheating And Other Forms Of Academic Dishonesty1511 Words   |  7 Pagesassignment. People can get in serious trouble for this in the real world. By saying the real world, I mean in high school, college, or the place of work. The definition for this action is, â€Å"academic dishonesty.† It defines as, â€Å"Misconduct is any type of cheating that occurs in relation to a formal academic exercise.† It can include, plagiarism: the adoption or reproduction of ideas or words or statements of another person without due acknowledgment.† (Berkely) So, in simpler terms this means usingRead MoreAcademic Dishonesty Is Essentially The Act Of Deceiving1752 Words   |  8 PagesAcademic Dishonesty is essentially the act of deceiving an instructor by cheating on a given assignment for that particular instructor. Academic Dishonesty ranges from using part of someone else’s work to fulfill the requirements of the assignment to using resources unethically to manipulate the outcome of the final grade in an effort to suit one’s personal desires rather than choosing to receive important feedback which can teach the student (the point of the assignment in the first place). Academic

Social Commentaries on the Disruption of Human Condition free essay sample

A deeper understanding of disruption and identity emerges from considering the parallels between Frankenstein and Blade Runner [copy this essay and you die gt;:( Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Ridley Scott’s Bladerunner are both social commentaries that reiterate the zeitgeist of their era; exploring parallel anxieties concerning the disruption of the human condition, the human condition being the meaningful interaction between humanity and the world around. Both composers raise this as the salient premise, through the embodiment of these disruptions in an identity. Identity and character play a significant role in unpacking the contextual fears and criticisms in both of these texts. Frankenstein and Bladerunner utilize differing mediums and conceptual aesthetic frameworks to elucidate their contextual parallels. Bladerunner as a grand narrative utilizes postmodern textual features like anti-humanist agendas and Frankenstein as a hybridized gothic text employing principles established by romantics framing enlightenment. Shelley and Scott both share concerns with the teleological perspective of the disruption of the human condition due to the corrupting clutches of technology. Shelley and Scott display strong contextual links which endure across time, such as common scientifically dominated worlds and contemporary anxieties. As the contemporary human condition dominates the face of the Earth with unerring progress, it is paradoxical in both texts that the focus shifts to the flaws of this domination. Victor’s hamartia is his own blinding ambition and need to defy ‘the natural a contextual parallel to the process of enlightenment, to even try to dominate it† who shall conceive the horrors of my secret toil†¦ pursue nature to her hiding-place†, the personification of nature and blatant disrespect creates a disruption in the human condition. The humans in Bladerunner are portrayed to be inferior to the replicants by the dysphemistic term â€Å"little people†. The human condition is degraded to a mere game, in which humans are the pawns. This is evidenced throughout the film by the symbolic motif of the chess set commerce is our ultimate goal here where life is seen as a commodity, a resource ready to be exploited. This is further inferred by the perpetual product placement and towering billboards framed by low angle shots in the opening sequence, these elements coupled with the unsaturated shots of the urban landscape create a spatial inequality symbolic of the contextual links to Reagonomics. Mirroring enlightenment the lement of life is also debased within Victor, where life isn’t a powerful and sacred natural force, but a series of technological processes, seen through the lack of emotive language when he aborts his creation I ardently wished to extinguish that life. In each case people are valued as a resource, not their worth as living, breathing beings. This teleological perception of the human condition is derived from the collective concerns of the exploitation based on the ambiguity of the human con dition. Framed by irrational and rational fears, this blurring distinction creates a plausible threat to the human condition motivating a change in action or perception. This â€Å"human condition† portrayed in both texts is contrasted with the â€Å"disruptions of the human condition. † Victor’s creature is metaphorical of an ‘everyman, created from dismembered parts of the deceased and the replicants in Bladerunner built to replicate the human form, these beings embody the technologizing of identity and disrupted human condition â€Å"to make an alteration in the evolvement of an organic life†. The replicants and Victor’s creature symbolize the birth of technology; raising the question of whether the human condition can survive a disruption like the birth of technology. Victor’s creature embodies a monstrous sublime over a traditional sublime and the mechanization of the identity, possessing the capacity to leave men in awe but it is this sublime that causes his own grief. â€Å"If I cannot inspire love, I will cause fear† he attempts to pursue his place and revaluates his identity. The creature expresses his anguish for his own paradoxical existence through the rhetorical â€Å"my accursed origin†¦my disgusting circumstances†¦ why did I live? † Similarly the replicants are relegated to bare life, where their identity is essentially stripped away from them and imposed with another. They’re identified as tabula rasa with no humanity initially embedded within them. Perceived through the implementation of false memories â€Å"we can control them better†¦ you’re talking about memories! acting as an artificial identity, Rachael unaware of the truth is introduced by ambient lighting with her foreground illuminated by sunlight, contrasted with the scene of realization where she is painted in darkness and at the point of realization Rachael is delved into complete darkness. Chiaroscuro and color manipulation are employed to metaphorically give the truth an omnipotent overtone. The blurring of the distinction between what attributes o r lack of attributes which separates Victors creation and the replicants from being called humans is the salient premise raised in both texts. This ambiguity is the common tool used to channel the concerns about the extents of the mechanization of the human condition. Both composers juxtapose a conflicting understanding of the human condition to put in stark contrast the teleological direction of the human condition and allow the audience to develop their own critical thesis of the human condition. Shelley utilizes epistolary form in the form of lowbrow horror while Scott employs postmodern textual features in film. Bladerunner following a postmodern tradition is a pastiche of genres incorporating film noir through a hardboiled detective and a femme fatale. Cliched characters like the femme fatale and Deckard are caricatures of caricatures; the human element is twice removed to serve the anti-humanist agenda. This framing of the human condition is a critical viewing, allowing the audience to discern a moral stance. The antagonist Roy Batty being the only character who is not two dimensional, but bares humanity perceived through Deckard’s rescue,† Ah! Kinship† the transition from night to dawn symbolizes moral tale of humanity contrary to this he is anti-human. The tale is anti-humanist as the protagonist and antagonist are revealed to be replicants, â€Å"We’re not computers-we’re physical†. The film disrupts the conventions of a moral tale, parodying it to serve as a tale of the human condition through anti-humans. Similarly Shelley’s crude epistolary form is an embodiment of the creature by its roughly sewn form reflecting the seams that crudely weave technology in Shelley’s context. The creature persistence in trying to find its place in humanity, and is interoperated as a romantic character pushing the boundaries separating man from beast. Shelley’s characters embody an enlightened scientific rationale and a romantic ideology these qualities evoke empathy allowing for a critical thesis of the displacement of the human condition to be conjured within the reader. Contrary to this, Bladerunner follows postmodern tropes where it is difficult to maintain empathy for characters that embody a moral tale reinforcing the anti-humanist agenda. Both texts subvert the role of â€Å"man† and Frankenstein’s Gothicism and Bladerunner’s postmodernism are utilized to frame the narrative allowing a suspension in disbelief and express darker ideologies about the teleology of the disruption of the human condition. This allows a viewing of the identities from a displaced perspective to a recentering of the human condition and identity. The texts mirror what has already occurred in the history of the human condition through their characters and in doing so explore strong contextual parallels like common technological worlds and contemporary anxieties. Shelley and Scott discuss the salient premise of disruption within the human condition through a shared teleological perception. Using differing aesthetic frameworks like sublime and postmodern rhetoric they critically assess the disruption of the contemporary human condition allowing the audience to discern a moral stance. They share the common goal to inspire and motivate action or a change in the perception to preserve the human condition.

James Bond Modern Myth Essay Example

James Bond Modern Myth Essay Most of what we consider to be today’s modern myths are timeless superheroes that have been preserved and elevated to this status by comic books, television shows, and movies. One modern character who has achieved this title, partly due to this same timelessness and seeming immortality, is Ian Fleming’s James Bond. Fleming created the character of Bond in 1953, when he released his first novel entitled Casino Royale. Critical acclaim for the novels led Fleming to partner with EON productions to film a James Bond movie – the first being Dr. No. While Fleming penned his final Bond story in 1964, other novelists and directors have continued to produce material that adds to the never-ending story of this British superspy. The image of James Bond has become an important part of pop culture, spawning a line of video games and musical arrangements made specifically for the series. It has also influenced many other novels and films; including the Austin Powers spoof series and the Jason Bourne books and movies. The name James Bond has become synonymous with violence, sex and sophistication, and it is a prime example of a modern myth due to people’s familiarity with the character and his personality. James Bond is a modern myth not just because of the mythic qualities that the character and his codename, 007, possess, but also because of the status to which it has been elevated and the number of ways in which it has been recreated. Ian Fleming released the first novel featuring Commander Sir James Bond of the British Secret Intelligence Service in 1953, which was entitled Casino Royale. We will write a custom essay sample on James Bond Modern Myth specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on James Bond Modern Myth specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on James Bond Modern Myth specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The novel introduced Bond as a cold and virtually emotionless MI6 (SIS) agent sent to defeat a Soviet terrorist who is funding a weapons trade in an intense game of Baccarat. As Fleming said of his creation: I wanted the simplest, dullest, plainest-sounding name I could find, James Bond was much better than something more interesting, like Peregrine Carruthers. Exotic things would happen to and around him, but he would be a neutral figure — an anonymous, blunt instrument wielded by a government department. (Chancellor 47) Most of the Bond novels would make reference to Bond’s coldness and nonchalant attitude towards murdering others, and it would become a staple of the series – a mythic quality that intrigued readers and, later, viewers. Also, Fleming notes that while Bond remains unmoved, wild occurrences take place around him – a duality that offers attractive action scenes and exotic locales as well as a character that garners interest with his mysterious nature. In fact, a glimpse into Bond’s history and previous life is not provided until the novel On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, the 11th novel in the series. This mystique is also another quality that has helped James Bond achieve mythic status. The Bond novels ended abruptly when Fleming died in 1964, but another novel and a collection of short stories were published posthumously two years later as they had already been written by Fleming. The saga continued, however, through the growing popularity of the film series. Fleming worked directly with EON productions in 1962 to release the first James Bond movie, which featured Sean Connery as Bond. Despite Fleming originally disliking Connery playing his character, along with the first film, Dr. No, receiving bad reviews from the box office, the production company continued to release Bond films and later achieved success and critical acclaim (Barnes and Hearn 8). The film series also gained a following that has continued to expand up to today, and it has reached a point where it appears that the saga will never end. In fact, history has proven that regardless of how poorly made a new Bond film seems to be, aficionados of the series will still embrace it because it features Bond, as proven by box offices failures such as Die Another Day and A View to a Kill. Although James Bond is not considered a traditional â€Å"superhero,† his never-ending story, ability to escape any danger, mind-blowing gadgets, and mysterious personality made him the first superhero of his time. â€Å"Before Superman, Batman or Indiana Jones, there was Bond, the bespoke superhero, blowing up stuff and nonchalantly risking his life and limb for God and country† (Hinson). James Bond faces his imminent death in every novel and film, often at the hands of some criminal mastermind or his arch nemesis, Ernst Stavro Blofeld (a character who has become a myth himself by inspiring characters such as Dr. Evil and The Claw). Despite the array of weapons, deadly plots and dangerous women used against him, Bond always escapes danger and lives to fight another day. The fact that his adventures have been replayed and expanded upon for forty years, that his likeness has been portrayed by six different actors, and that multiple authors have been licensed to pen new Bond novels solidifies his status as a modern myth. Also, like most myths, James Bond has become more famous than his original creator, a factor that separates the Bond series from any other book-turned-movie in the modern age. Despite all of the qualities of the James Bond series that prove its integration into our culture, it is necessary to connect it to other elements of myths in order to substantiate its role as a modern myth. First of all, myths are associated with the cultures that create them, and they become a tradition of that civilization. Such is the case with the Bond series, as it is ingrained in our society so that new films and video games are released every few years and the name James Bond is often the first image to come to a person’s mind when the word â€Å"spy† is mentioned. Likewise, the series itself integrates elements of the culture that created it. James Bond exudes the sophistication usually associated with Great Britain, and each novel and film includes aspects of the world’s happenings according to the era that it is produced during. For example, the film version of From Russia with Love reflects elements of the Cold War, and it especially resonated with the audience due to its release a year after the Cuban Missile Crisis. Likewise, the novel version of The Spy Who Loved Me, released in 1962, is the most sexually explicit of the series, which relates to the sexual revolution of the 1960s. Most of the films were adapted from novels, but they were all generally modified to deal with modern issues and problems, thus keeping Bond current and endowing the series with more mythic qualities. A common element of myths is that they deal with transcendence and man’s futile attempt to transcend his natural boundaries. In the myth of Oedipus Rex, Oedipus desires to outdo the gods and fate by escaping his doomed future of incestuous marriage and familial murder. Despite his precautions, he is unable to escape his fated downfall. James Bond deals with transcendence in a different way. While he considers himself, and is considered by others to be, a blunt instrument utilized by the British government, he attempts to transcend his own boundaries by becoming more of a superhero than simply a spy. In most of the Bond novels, he goes to great lengths to defeat the evil which he faces at that time, and this is played out even more in the films where his feats are dramatized and he is presented as a larger than life character. He performs stunts that are truly unrealistic and takes on a criminal organization, its leader, and a slew of henchmen single-handedly. Bond succeeds in transcending his boundaries because he always defeats the â€Å"bad guy† and escapes unscathed. Yet, his efforts can also be seen as futile because he never eliminates the source of the world’s evil – which ultimately is his goal. Of course, Bond fails in this goal because he takes on a challenge that is truly impossible, since evil can never be erased from the world. In this sense, James Bond can be seen as mythic because it features man’s inability to transcend to the level which he wishes to obtain. Like many mythic heroes, Bond must attempt to complete his missions while compensating for his weaknesses. As Joseph Campbell points out, imperfection is what makes people empathize with and cheer for a mythic hero – imperfection makes him human and perfection would be impossible to identify with (J. Campbell 4). While many critics argue that the James Bond series is bland because the protagonist has no flaws, their argument is invalid. Bond features multiple weaknesses in the novels and films: â€Å"He turned back to the front page and began to rattle off the points that struck him†¦Vices: Smokes heavily, drink, but not to excess, and women† (Fleming, â€Å"From Russia with Love† 41). In this segment from From Russia with Love, a Russian agent reads off the information file that they have kept on James Bond. His first vice (which, his vices should be viewed as weaknesses since they are imperfections) is smoking, which is heavily played up in the novels but was not featured in most of the films after the 70s. In fact, Pierce Brosnan’s Bond in the early 90s makes the remark that smoking is â€Å"†¦an awful habit† after seeing a Russian guard lighting up (M. Campbell). However, smoking is considered one of the literary Bond’s vices because, even though smoking was condoned in the 50s and visible in many films during the era, Bond is presented as smoking excessively and unhealthily. His drinking habits are considered a vice, but it is a less important factor because he does not drink to excess and does not allow it to impede his objectives. In fact, Bond’s drinking has become a mythic element of his character, but more specifically, his choice of alcoholic drink. â€Å"A dry martini, he said. ‘One. In a deep champagne goblet. Oui, monsieur. Just a moment. Three measures of Gordons, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet. Shake it very well until its ice-cold, then add a large thin slice of lemon peel. Got it? † (Fleming, â€Å"Casino Royale† 72). This quotation first appeared in the novel Casino Royale and has since been featured in many other Bond novels and films, more commonly condensed into the phrase, â€Å"Shaken, not stirred. † Bond’s drink preference has been quoted and misquoted in many other mediums, thus proving its mythic qualities. His only other vice, and arguably the most notable of all, is his excessive amount of women. In every Bond adventure, he seduces at least one woman, although more often than not he has multiple women. In Casino Royale, both the novel and the 2006 feature film, he meets Vesper Lynd, a partner in his mission, whom he falls madly in love with. After becoming severely wounded, Bond contemplates retiring from the service in order to marry Vesper and lead â€Å"an honest life,† although this does not happen after he discovers that she is a double agent working for SMERSH/QUANTUM (the organization’s title differs in the novels and movies). Her death leaves him empty, leading him to tell his boss â€Å"The job is done†¦the bitch is dead now,† foreshadowing his distrust of women in every later novel and film (Fleming, â€Å"Casino Royale† 180). Bond is commonly referred to as a womanizer for his treatment of women after this event, using women simply for sex and the completion of his goals. These women whom he seduces are referred to as â€Å"Bond girls,† a term that has become another staple of the series. Usually, the â€Å"Bond girl† is the main woman in the novel or film, and she can range from being Bond’s coworker to his opponent. Bond girls† have also taken on a mythic element due to their names, which are usually comical as well as overtly sexual (i. e. Honey Ryder, Xenia Onnatop, and Pussy Galore). James Bond’s smorgasbord of women is considered a weakness because it often places him in dangerous situations. He is sometimes lured into a trap by his nemeses, su ch as in From Russia with Love, where SMERSH utilizes the beautiful Tatiana Romanova to assassinate Bond unsuccessfully, of course. Most myths, even some of the more modern ones, tend to feature some supernatural or preternatural components. Earlier myths often featured the gods as important players in the plot, and these supernatural beings sometimes intervene with the action of the myth. In the James Bond series, there is no mention of God or gods and the supernatural generally does not come into play, with the exception of the novel and movie Live and Let Die, which features a Bond girl with the ability to foresee the future and a nemesis that defeats his foes by utilizing voodoo and black magic. Otherwise, the supernatural does not come into play in the Bond series (this is due to the fact that the plots usually deal with realistic and modern-day elements). However, one connection that can be made to the supernatural is Bond’s agelessness and his superhero-like abilities. As previously noted, the Bond series has been operating for 40 years, yet the character never ages. While the ages of the actors who play him may vary, they have all been around the same ages (with the exception of Roger Moore, who was notably older than the other actors when he first began his tenure). His agelessness has helped to endow that mythical quality upon the series. Bond also possesses what some may view as a supernatural ability to always escape death; however, this is not a typical superhero power. Instead, Bond is attributed with a particular set of skills, including but not limited to the knowledge of boating, skiing and karate, which allows him to swiftly deal with his enemies, even in the stickiest situations. While this is not the traditional supernatural intervention that one may expect, it nevertheless aids in establishing his status as a myth. Just as Antigone presents a moral issue that its characters must face, many other myths do the same. They often attempt to provide some ethical justification for an action, therefore being pedagogical and teaching its audience something about life. The James Bond series is pedagogical as well, adding another aspect to the list of items that make it mythic. One feature of Bond that is insightful about life is his unhappiness. Throughout the novels more so than the films, Bond sometimes appears unhappy about the path he has chosen for himself as well as his constant romances with women but nability to ever settle down with someone (the novels hint at a possible marriage before Vesper Lynd was in the picture, but it is unclear as to if it fell through or if the woman died). In many ways, Fleming was reflecting his own personal life and his experiences during WWII. He wrote in his creed â€Å"I have always smoked and drunk and loved too much. In fact I have lived not too long but too mu ch. One day the Iron Crab will get me. Then I shall have died of living too much† (Fleming, â€Å"Fleming Creed†). While Fleming appears optimistic about his experiences in life, he nevertheless desires a source of calmness and relaxation. It can be said that Fleming, while beautifying the art and lifestyle of espionage, was also instructing readers that this way of life can leave a person empty and, while it can be exciting and exotic, human beings long for some stability. Bond novels and films also take a myth-like ethical justification approach to violence as well as the sometimes brutal tactics that Bond employs in his missions. James Bond constantly needs to shoot someone or blow up a building, but it is justified because it is all part of the grand scheme and allows Bond to complete his objectives. As described in the short story and film License to Kill, MI6 has given James Bond the authority to eliminate anyone who stands in his way. In light of his victory, any sins that he has committed immediately become irrelevant, and he is viewed as a hero in the same way that a soldier is viewed when returning home for a successful war. The Bond series serves as a modern myth because it explores ethical justifications and asserts that murders can be justified if they are executed in the pursuit of justice. The Bond series offers a myriad of items that have become ingrained in our society through their appearance in James Bond books and films specifically, Bond quips and catchphrases, the number 007, â€Å"Bond girls,† unrealistic gadgets, tuxedo-clad spies, and criminal masterminds who prove to be inefficient in eliminating their primary assailant. The Bond character is also a timeless and ageless figure that has been portrayed by multiple actors and presented in numerous adventures. The series also contains common elements of myths which substantiate claims that James Bond is a modern myth. The novels and films are pedagogical in nature and explore the issue of ethical justification for violence, and Bond is presented as having a preternatural ability to evade all danger and destroy all the evils that he faces. These adventures also deal with transcendence, and Bond’s attempt to transcend the boundaries of human nature and his occupation as well as his inevitable never-ending battle against the evils of the world. James Bond, like most myths, has garnered much more fame than its original creator, and the release of more films and novels featuring the protagonist is always expected since Bond has become a part of our society’s traditions.

Sonnet To Science by Edgar Allen Poe essays

Sonnet To Science by Edgar Allen Poe essays Habitualization is referred to as the inevitable process by which any artistic object becomes ordinary, therefore losing its power as an artistic object(Karine Zbinden) People who spend their lives consumed in sameness become numb to the subtle magnificence of everyday life. Poets have the ethereal ability to bring defamiliarization to the ordinary of everyday life by exposing these subtleties, to create a new, meaningful perception of these places or words. Sonnet To Science by Edgar Allan Poe beautifully illustrates his poetic language as an antidote to habitualization. Science, referred to as a scavenger bird in the second doublet, is preying upon the poets heart, destroying fantastical dreams and replacing them with dull realities. In modern times, science is seen as a wondrous thing. Scientists develop new theories on the origin of life; they discover new planets and stars. E. A. Poe portrays science as the enemy of all that is adventurous, magical and natural ...driven the Hamadryad from the wood. Poes use of mythical creatures contrasts with what science is meant to be. Science puts proof into theories while talk of nymphs and faeries requires imagination. The idea that science has sucked the splendor out of the mysteries of life is what E.A. Poe so bluntly describes. Instead of the Naiad, nymph of fresh water, being the source of the flood, science can come up with a dreary explanation involving weather patterns. The Hamadryad does not tend to the old forests; science explains the cycle of photosynthesis. How can a poet convert scientific explanations into elegant art? How should he love thee?(Line 5) The poet referred to in the sonnet wonders why he should appreciate science when it is science that makes his ideologies seem foolish- or how deem thee wise? Science, as a concept, has stolen ...

Real Pirate Quotations

Real Pirate Quotations Note: These are real quotations from actual pirates during the Golden Age of piracy, which lasted roughly from 1700 to 1725. If youre looking for modern quotations about pirates or quotations from movies, youve come to the wrong place, but if youre looking for authentic historical quotations from historys greatest sea-dogs, read on! Anonymous Pirate (Context) When asked on the gallows if he repented. Yes, I do heartily repent. I repent I had not done more mischief; and that we did not cut the throats of them that took us, and I am extremely sorry that you arent hanged as well as we. (Johnson 43) Bartholomew Black Bart Roberts In an honest service there is thin commons, low wages, and hard labor; in this, plenty and satiety, pleasure and ease, liberty and power; and who would not balance creditor on this side, when all the hazard that is run for it, at worst, is only a sour look or two at choking. No, a merry life and a short one, shall be my motto. (Johnson, 244) (Translation: In honest work, the food is bad, the wages are low and the work is hard. In piracy, there is plenty of loot, its fun and easy and we are free and powerful. Who, when presented with this choice, would not choose piracy? The worst that can happen is you can be hanged. No, a merry life and a short one shall be my motto.) Henry Avery (Context) Informing Captain Gibson of the Duke (who was a notorious drunkard) that he was taking over the ship and going pirate. Come, dont be in a fright, but put on your clothes, and Ill let you into a secret. You must know that I am Captain of this ship now, and this is my cabin, therefore you must walk out. I am bound to Madagascar, with a design of making my own fortune, and that of all the brave fellows joined with me...if you have a mind to make one of us, we will receive you, and if youll turn sober, and mind your business, perhaps in time I may make you one of my Lieutenants, if not, heres a boat alongside and you shall be set ashore. (Johnson 51-52) Edward Blackbeard Teach (Context) Before his final battle Damnation seize my soul if I give you quarters, or take any from you. (Johnson 80) (Translation: Ill be damned if I accept your surrender or surrender to you.) Blackbeard Lets jump on board, and cut them to pieces. (Johnson 81) Howell Davis (Context) Dissolving his alliance with pirates Thomas Cocklyn and Olivier La Buse Hark ye, you Cocklyn and la Bouche, I find by strengthening you, I have put a rod into your hands to whip myself, but I am still able to deal with you both; but since we met in love, let us part in love, for I find that three of a trade can never agree. (Johnson 175) Bartholomew Roberts (Context) Explaining to his victims that he was under no obligation to treat them kindly or fairly. There is none of you but will hang me, I know, whenever you can clinch me within your power. (Johnson 214) Black Sam Bellamy (Context) To a Captain Beer, apologizing after his pirates had voted to sink Beers ship after looting it. Damn my blood, I am sorry they wont let you have your sloop again, for I scorn to do anyone a mischief, when it is not for my advantage. (Johnson 587) Anne Bonny (Context) To Calico Jack Rackham in prison after he had decided to surrender to pirate hunters instead of fight. I am sorry to see you here, but if you had fought like a man, you neednt be hanged like a dog. (Johnson, 165) Thomas Sutton (Context) A captured member of Roberts crew, when told by a fellow pirate that he hoped to make it into Heaven. Heaven, you fool? Did you ever year of any pirates going thither? Give me hell, its a merrier place: Ill give Roberts a salute of 13 guns at entrance. (Johnson 246) William Kidd (Context) Upon being sentenced to hang. My Lord, it is a very hard sentence. For my part, I am the innocentest person of them all, only I have been sworn against by perjured persons. (Johnson 451) About These Quotations All of these quotations are directly taken from Captain Charles Johnsons A General History of the Pyrates (page numbers in parentheses refer to the edition below), written between 1720 and 1728 and considered one of the most important primary sources on piracy. Please note that I have made minor cosmetic changes to the quotations such as updating to modern spelling and removing capitalization of proper nouns. For the record, it is unlikely that Captain Johnson actually heard any of these quotations directly, but he did have good sources and it is fair to assume that the pirates in question said, at some point, something reasonably like the quotations listed. Source Defoe, Daniel (Captain Charles Johnson). A General History of the Pyrates. Edited by Manuel Schonhorn. Mineola: Dover Publications, 1972/1999.

Being American Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Being American - Essay Example The author intends that the readers understand about the American identity of American residents. Most of them are from diverse lands and their parents or grandparents have immigrated to America after which, America has taken its current form. Belonging to a diverse cultural background, I can relate to the poem. ‘To the Lady’ is composed by Mitsuye Yamada. She expresses anger towards Japanese Americans and other Americans’ silence when Japanese Americans were captured in war camps. She as a Japanese American represents the voice of her people. She talks about a report in San Francisco by a lady which â€Å"why did the Japanese Americans let the government put them in those camps without protest?† (Yamada 523)and shows her reaction about the pride of American people and existent discrimination on the land.She uses the sentences â€Å"social order moral order internal order† (Yamada 523) to show discrimination in America. She uses the symbols of war in the poem such as ‘bombed’, ‘self-immolation’ and ‘six million’ indicating towards killing of Jewish people. She further refers to the famous incident of murder of ‘Kitty Genovese’ who got murdered on street.Being an American, every happening can be related to us. ‘Facing It’ is written by YusefKomunyakaa who is an African American ethnically. Komunyakaa connects his experience of being Black with the memorial of Vietnam War. The poet is standing in front of the Vietnam memorial reading names of people and finding his own. He sees his reflection in the memorial and considers that the difference between the memorial and him is that of stone and flesh. He can feel the pain of his history while the memorial cannot. He says, "My black face fades,/hiding inside the black granite" (Komunyakaa 525) showing his connectivity with the memorial. He also refers to a name, ‘Andrew Johnson’ written on the

Catholic Church and Artificial Birth Control Methods Research Paper

Catholic Church and Artificial Birth Control Methods - Research Paper Example The Catholic Church is emphatic on the notion that birth control is not only wrong but also a grave sin. This paper will discuss the Catholic Church or doctrine and its emphasis on the ban of artificial birth control methods. From the date of its inception, the Catholic Church has insisted that birth control is a sin. Birth control and its methods have been understood from the times of ancient Roman and Greek empires. During this period, birth control was undertaken using condoms made from animal skin and other poisons that were used as spermicidal. The Catholic Church has followed the first mention of birth control issues recorded in genesis 38:8-10. According to the catholic doctrine, this is where birth control methods have been banned in the bible. Here Onan was instructed to engage in sexual intercourse with the widow of his brother. However, in that activity, Onan withdrew his penis so that he could not impregnate her. This resulted to the slain of Onan (Jutte 142). The Catholi c Church also cites Deuteronomy 23:1 that says that a person who crushes his testicles or cuts off his member will not be allowed in the Assembly of God. Crushing testicles and cutting off the member were considered as effective ways of sterilization at that time. Therefore, the Catholic Church states that this verse is clear on the Bible’s stand on birth control issues. The ban on birth control methods were also reiterated by the Catholic Church leaders in their time. For instance, the Clement of Alexandria in 195 AD said that the seed has a divine institution towards the propagation of human species. Therefore, the seed should not be ejaculated vainly, damaged or be wasted. This assertion agrees with the song of Monty Python called Every Sperm is Sacred. During the industrial revolution in 1930, Pope Pius XI was angered by the acceptance of birth control by other churches of the Christian doctrine (Tentler 7). This made him put a casti connubii in December 1930 that read, à ¢â‚¬Å"†¦ therefore, openly departing from the uninterrupted Christian tradition some recently have judged it possible solemnly to declare another doctrine regarding this question, the Catholic Church ... in order that she may preserve the chastity of the nuptial union from being defiled by this foul stain, ... proclaims anew that any use whatsoever of matrimony exercised in such a way that the act is deliberately frustrated in its natural power to generate life is an offense against the law of God and of nature, and those who indulge in such are branded with the guilt of a grave sin.† (Genovesi 174) The Catholic Church has hold on to the ban even in modern times. The catholic doctrine states that God created sex for the procreation of children and maintain the chastity of marriage. It is in this sense that the Catholic Church forbids sex outside marriage. This is because the church emphasizes that the teachings of birth control methods should be taught and understood in t he context of marriage specifically for the husband and his wife. However, the modern day Catholic Church has slightly changed on its emphasis on birth control methods. The traditional Catholic Church did not allow for any birth control method. On the other hand, the modern Catholic Church allows married couples to use natural birth control methods (Rengel 198). The modern day Catholic Church states clearly that it does not condemn the use of pills or condoms. This

Marius’s essay Essay Example for Free

Marius’s essay Essay The overall idea of Marius’s essay is that writing is hard work. The topic sentence in paragraph two is â€Å"writing takes time – lots of time†. It is difficult to devote time to any one thing, and writing is no exception, especially if a writer struggles with any facet of writing. Some writers don’t even know where to begin; others have to wait for inspiration. Others only do it because they are forced to for a school assignment! Anything without an immediate reward is difficult to do for most people, and if it requires time, it also requires sacrifice, which relates to the third paragraph’s topic sentence, â€Å"most writers require some sort of solitude†. Solitude is equivalent to starvation. It is giving up something that is essential to human existence – companionship. Friends and family sometimes do not understand the need for solitude and can become angry if someone dives into work and all of a sudden becomes unavailable to them. Most friends and family are supportive, but over time will grow tired of being overlooked for a piece of writing. The fourth paragraph focuses on the overall sacrifice that a writer must make in order to work – time and solitude. Both are very difficult and require discipline. Here Marius also touches on the finer aspects of writing – thinking, considering points, testing, examination, and details, details, details! Writing is work, even for those who are good at it or like it. It can be a chore or a beautiful exploration of life.

Gas Prices In The Bay Area :: essays research papers

A main source of transportation is the car. People use cars to get around instead of catching public transportation. Even though public transportation like, A.C. Transit and BART, can be very convenient and sometimes cheap. The main problem about having a car is you have to pay for your gas for your own car. Right now gas prices are tremendously high right now in the Bay Area. If gas prices are not lowered back down to $1.05 in the Bay Area, people will start taking BART and AC. Transit, and any other sources of transportation more often.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  For a while things were going great until a problem hit Bay Area cities like Oakland, San Francisco, Richmond, and so on. Factories were shutting down like Tosco and Chevron because of difficulties and disasters occurred. At the Chevron refinery in Richmond, something blew up causing many people in the area to get sick, people being injured on the job site, and some people losing their lives while at work. There has got to be ways to stop these problems but it seems like companies are not trying to fix them right away. The same thing happened at the Tosco refinery previously to the Chevron accident. Tosco blew up and polluted the air and got people sick and killed another man.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  People having to suffer from the careless mistakes and the improper procedures taken by the people who run the refineries. Not only are we devastated by what’s happening at the refineries but we, as drivers, are devastated by the prices that we have to pay just for one gallon of gas. One gallon of unleaded fuel that is actually cheap since the gas inflation is, $1.45. Before any of the inflation happened, one gallon of unleaded fuel cost, $1.05. Man, I know people miss that huh.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  I was speaking to A BART representative, who is on the BART board, told me that BART has gone up around 20%. To me that’s a lot. A.C. Transit has also gone up around 15%. Gas Prices In The Bay Area :: essays research papers A main source of transportation is the car. People use cars to get around instead of catching public transportation. Even though public transportation like, A.C. Transit and BART, can be very convenient and sometimes cheap. The main problem about having a car is you have to pay for your gas for your own car. Right now gas prices are tremendously high right now in the Bay Area. If gas prices are not lowered back down to $1.05 in the Bay Area, people will start taking BART and AC. Transit, and any other sources of transportation more often.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  For a while things were going great until a problem hit Bay Area cities like Oakland, San Francisco, Richmond, and so on. Factories were shutting down like Tosco and Chevron because of difficulties and disasters occurred. At the Chevron refinery in Richmond, something blew up causing many people in the area to get sick, people being injured on the job site, and some people losing their lives while at work. There has got to be ways to stop these problems but it seems like companies are not trying to fix them right away. The same thing happened at the Tosco refinery previously to the Chevron accident. Tosco blew up and polluted the air and got people sick and killed another man.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  People having to suffer from the careless mistakes and the improper procedures taken by the people who run the refineries. Not only are we devastated by what’s happening at the refineries but we, as drivers, are devastated by the prices that we have to pay just for one gallon of gas. One gallon of unleaded fuel that is actually cheap since the gas inflation is, $1.45. Before any of the inflation happened, one gallon of unleaded fuel cost, $1.05. Man, I know people miss that huh.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  I was speaking to A BART representative, who is on the BART board, told me that BART has gone up around 20%. To me that’s a lot. A.C. Transit has also gone up around 15%.

Final Exam Study Guide Fall Semester 2012 Essay

Why is it said that the U.S. has a dual court system? There is a federal judicial system and 50 state court systems. What is the meaning of the concept of jurisdiction? A court has the right to hear a particular type of case. What is the meaning of the doctrine of â€Å"presumption of validity?† Courts must assume that, unless the burden of the evidence is clearly to the contrary, legislatures would not enact or executives sign into law measures which violate the constitution. What is the meaning of the term â€Å"stare decisis?†? Legal term meaning let the decision stand. Establishes precedents stand unless overruled. Judges may overrule if they have compelling reasons to establish new precedents. What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony? An anti-social conduct that is relatively minor is called a misdemeanor. A felony is a disorderly conduct that is more severe. What happens in the event of a conflict between a state law and a Federal law or a state law and a U.S. treaty? Federal law overrides state law any day. What is meant by â€Å"judicial activism?† Interpretation of the constitution holding that the spirit of the times and the needs of the nation can legitimately influence judicial decision. â€Å"Judicial self-restraint?† a self-imposed limitation on judicial decision making How are Federal judges chosen? Federal judges are nominated by the president and voted on by the senate. What is the term of a Federal judge? Term ends when justice dies. Why has the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee come under fire for the manner in which it â€Å"screens† appointees to the U.S. Supreme Court? Justices are declined if they politically go against the senate. Why did the committee reject Judge Robert Bork as a Supreme Court justice? He did not politically agree with the democratic run senate. What does it mean that Senators Joe Biden, Ted Kennedy and Howard Metzenbaum â€Å"borked† a Supreme Court nominee? They voted against a justice because of their political party. What was the nature of the political uproar over the nomination of Clarence Thomas to be a Supreme Court justice? He was accused of sexual assault. Who is Anita Hill? A law professor who accused Clarence Thomas of sexual assault. What are the provisions of Article III of the U.S. Constitution regarding the Federal judiciary? It establishes the judicial branch of the federal government. It establishes jurisdiction between the courts based on subject matter or the nature of the parties. It declares that the power of judicial power of the United States shall be vested in one supreme court. There is no specific provision anywhere in article III giving Federal courts the power of judicial review. What was the importance of Marbury v. Madison? The case that established judicial review. What is judicial review? Review by the Supreme Court of the constitutional validity of a legislative act. What, if anything, can be done to overturn a U.S. Supreme Court decision? Nothing can be done unless it involves amending the constitution, or if the court rules on something that contradicts a previous ruling. Who controls the Supreme Court’s docket? The supreme court itself does. What is the â€Å"rule of four?† The supreme court only hears cases if it grants a writ of certiorari. Where consent of four justices are given. What is a writ of certiorari? A common law writ issued by a superior court to one of inferior jurisdiction demanding the record of a particular case. What is the primary role of the U.S. Court of Appeals? To hear and dispose of the vast majority of cases appealed from the district courts. What are U.S. District Courts? General trial courts of the united states federal court system that hears both civil and criminal cases. When would a Federal District Court have jurisdiction in a case? If a case involved crimes against the united states, suits under national laws involving use of the mails, patent, copyright, trademark and other such technical matters and civil rights laws. What is the difference between a â€Å"petit† and a â€Å"grand† jury? Petit juries have 12 members who decide, based on evidence, if the defendant is guilty or not guilty. Grand juries indict people. Its functions is to decide if the government has a case or not. How are they chosen? Through a jury pool from those serving jury duty. What are their respective functions? To decide if the government has a case, and to decide if the defendant is guilty or not guilty. Also if a person has won or lost a lawsuit. How do cases reach the U.S. Supreme Court? Through appellate and original jurisdiction. Mostly from appeals though sent from the court of appeals. Under what limited circumstances may the U.S. Supreme Court exercise original jurisdiction? When it accepts a suit if it feels a compelling reason to do so. Who determines the appellate jurisdiction of the U.S. Supreme Court? What are some of the political and ideological considerations involved in U.S. Supreme Court appointments? Generally their party affiliation and how they interpret the constitution. Does race, gender, religion, ethnicity matter in a President’s nomination of a Supreme Court justice? Yes. Who are the present nine justices of the U.S. Supreme Court? What are their backgrounds? John G. Roberts Jr., Antonin Scalia, Anthony M. Kennedy, Clearance Thomas, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Steven G. Breyer, Samuel Anthony Alito Jr., Sonia Sotomayor, and Elena Kagan. RELIGION Why did the authors of the Bill of Rights put religious freedom first in the First Amendment? It is more of an article of peace. It was mainly to remove religion from politics. What are the â€Å"wall of separation† and â€Å"accommodationist† positions on the Establishment Clause? Wall of separation believes that church and state should be entirely separated. No affiliation between the two. Accommodationists believe that no religion should be favored, but all should be accommodated. Why have Americans had fewer problems with the â€Å"Free Exercise† Clause than with the â€Å"Establishment† Clause? Free Exercise clauses are only in effect if the religions practices don’t get in the way of any laws. Establishment clauses include clauses that excuse kids from school to go to church, this was very controversial because atheist children were left out. Much more controversy in establishment clauses. What are some of the issues raised by groups like the Amish (Wisconsin v. Yoder), Jehovah’s Witnesses and other religious minorities regarding interpretation of the â€Å"Free Exercise† Clause? These allowed laws to be bent for people of certain religions. Wisconsin v. Yoder allows Amish children to be excused from school at 8th grade vs. the age 16. Jehovah’s Witnesses are allowed to be exempt from the draft due to their pacifism. Why did the U.S. Supreme Court rule against prayer in the public schools in the New York Regents prayer case (Engel v. Vitale, 1962)? It was said that New York could not write prayers. It is unconstitutional to do so. What was the nature of Madalyn Murray’s objections to the Maryland school prayer/Bible readings law? Her son was left out. Also she was athiest and she viewed the bible as merely a storybook. Why did the Schempp family object to the Pennsylvania law? They felt it was in direct violation of the establishment clause in the first amendment, also it theologically went against the Schempp’s Unitarian views. What did the Supreme Court rule in the companion Murray-Schempp decision of 1963? It ruled 8-1 striking down both the Pennsylvania and Maryland laws requiring prayer. Under what circumstances may students have prayer at their high school graduation ceremonies? As long as it’s student-led and is non-sectarian. May students form prayer and Bible study groups and use public school facilities for their meetings? Yes. What was the Equal Access Act of 1984? It required public secondary schools to allow religious groups to meet on school property if other groups exist. Even if one group is allowed to use the facilities, the school becomes a limited open forum where all groups can use the facilities. What did the Court rule when it was challenged in the 1990 Mergens case? 8-1 upholding the law. May public college officials deny use of campus facilities to religious groups for Bible study and prayer meetings? No, it is discriminatory. One of the most controversial areas is that of â€Å"parochiaid,† or state aid of various types to parochial schools. What three-part test did the Supreme Court devise in Lemon v. Kurtzman? It was called the Lemon Test where there must be a secular purpose rather than a religious purpose, the law cannot advance or inhibit religion, and government cannot be entangled in it. What was the fate of the law, challenged in Lemon, authorizing partial payment (secular subjects only) of teachers’ salaries in parochial schools? It was stricken down. May state and local school districts finance bus rides for children attending non-public schools (Everson v. Board of Education of Ewing Township, NJ, 1947)? Yes. What is the â€Å"child benefit theory?† The law aids the school child rather than a particular religious group. What did the Court rule in June, 2002, in the landmark Cleveland, Ohio, School Voucher Reform Case, Zelman v. Simmons-Harris? It held that 5-4 that Cleveland program did not offend the establishment clause. Can public school students, on parental request, be released from class to attend religion classes, conducted on public school property, during the school day, where the program is supervised by public school administrators (McCullom v. Champaign, Ill., Board of Education)? No, it is not viewed to be abiding by separation of church and state laws. Can students, on parental request, be dismissed from classes to attend churches or synagogues, as part of a program of religious education in public schools (Zorach v. Clauson)? Yes. Under what circumstances are courts likely to uphold or declare unconstitutional nativity displays on public property at Christmas time? Whether or not other religious symbols are there to balance it, also secular symbols like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. What did the Supreme Court rule in Donnelly v. Lynch? It upheld the nativity scene on the basis that both religious and secular symbols. County of Allegheny, Pa. v. ACLU? The court concluded that the nativity scene with the words â€Å"glory in the highest† was promoting Christian religion, but the menorah was okay. In the area of free exercise of religion, can children of Jehovah’s Witnesses be expelled from public schools for refusal to salute the American flag? Yes. Why do the Witnesses object to flag salutes or standing for the national anthem? They believe it violates one of the 10 commandments. What did our highest court rule in Minersville, Pa., School District v. Gobitis? 8-1 stating that one could not refuse to pledge allegiance to the flag. West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette? The court reversed itself, saying it was okay to excuse one’s self from saluting the flag or standing at the national anthem due to religious beliefs. How did the Supreme Court broaden the rights of conscientious objectors during the Vietnam War? It allowed any passifists who were against not only one war, but all wars to be exempt from the draft rather than just religious passifists. What did the Court rule in the Seeger, Welsh and Gillette cases? Seeger ruled that a belief in a traditional God or religion was unnecessary in order to be exempt. Welsh held that humanistic conviction was equivalent to religion. In Gillette held that one must be opposed to all wars in order to be exempt. What did the Court hold in the Mormon polygamy case (Reynolds v. U.S.)? They ruled against it. Polygamy is illegal in Utah. Why did the Roberts Court grant a religious exemption from some civil rights laws in Hossana-Tabor v. E.E.O.C. (2012)? The separation between church and state allows this. EXPRESSION (SPEECH AND PRESS) There are a number of theories about how the First Amendment’s free speech and press guarantees ought to be interpreted. What is the â€Å"absolutist view,† held by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the late Justices Hugo Black and William O. Douglas? They rejected line-drawing, what the law says goes in a literal sense. â€Å"when it says no law, it means no law. The â€Å"two-tier theory,† associated with the late political philosopher Alexander Meiklejohn? The press may say anything about the government. The â€Å"line-drawing† position, held by most judges? Establishing a number of standards to guide them between permissible and impermissible forms of free expression. What is meant by the â€Å"preferred freedoms† concept? First amendment freedoms should be given potential treatment by the court because they are essential in a democratic society. What is â€Å"commercial speech?† Speech done on behalf of an individual or a co mpany in order to produce a profit. Why did John Stuart Mill oppose censorship in his classic work, On Liberty? John Stuart Mill believes that the majority should not always influence the minority because if the majority is wrong, then the truth goes unheard, but if the majority is right, then the minority doesn’t understand why they are wrong. What is the argument against the suppression of ideas that we find not only unpopular, but even hateful? All ideas must be allowed, even if those ideas are sexist, racist, or angering. If, as judges say, the line must be drawn somewhere and free expression is not an absolute value, then what guidelines have they used to draw that line? Anything can be said, even violent things, as long as there is no evidence of intention to commit lawless acts. The right to swing your arms ends right as my nose begins. What is the â€Å"clear and present danger doctrine† (Schenck v. U.S.)? Enacted during WWI which created the Espionage act, where nobody could say anything that interfered with allied war efforts like encouraging young men to dodge the draft, or any other armed forces recruiting. The â€Å"evil tendency test† (Gitlow v. New York )? The government does not protect the expression which created a tendency toward illegal actions. The â€Å"clear and probable danger test† (Dennis v. U.S.)? The law prohibited the advocacy to overthrow the U.S. government and the conspiracy as well. What did the Supreme Court rule in the Smith Act cases of the 1950s? it is illegal to violently overthrow a government. 70 communists were convicted after this was established. What was the significance of Yates v. U.S.? Mere theoretical advocacy to overthrow the U.S. government by force and violence was a judicially protected right. What is the difference between liberty and license? Liberty means freedom under law ( the right to do something as long as nobody is hurt.) License is an abuse of liberty( such as libelous publication or slanderous speech). What is meant by the doctrine of â€Å"no prior restraint† on publication? A doctrine that states that published material does not have to be pre-screened in order to be published and viewed by the public. What was the significance of Near v. Minnesota? The court ruled that the press gag law was unconstitutional due to the fact that it restricts freedom of the press. New York Times-Washington Post v. U.S.? These newspapers published pentagon papers that were a study of the U.S. decision making in the Vietnam War. It embarrassed the President and the government. This resulted in the lifting of the district court’s restraining order on the press due to the failure to prove that publication of the documents jeopardized national security. How and when can First Amendment values collide with those of the Sixth Amendment? The right of the defendant in a criminal case to a fair trial by an impartial jury of his or her peers. Sometimes, judges have concluded, the press has cond ucted trial by newspaper. What are restrictive orders, called â€Å"gag orders† by the media? The court’s force of the media to withhold certain information from being published for varying circumstances that may hinder a current court case or could cause damage to someone’s (possibly the government’s) reputation What steps can trial judges take to protect the rights of the accused? Through â€Å"right to reply laws†, closing court rooms to the media, and implementing gag orders on certain subjects. Do reporters enjoy a â€Å"privileged† relationship with their sources? The supreme court says no, but there are shield laws that allows reporters to withhold certain information. What is the meaning of the phrase â€Å"burning the source?† Giving up the identity of a journalist’s source so that person can be questioned in court. Can reporters be held in contempt of court and jailed for refusal to turn over notes, tapes, or to offer testimony when so ordered (Branzburg v. Hayes)? Yes What, in theory, is the problem with â€Å"shield laws?† Some believe that it is a mistake to let the government grant immunity, this implies that the state can also withdrawal it. Can judges close their courtrooms to the press and public during preliminary proceedings (Gannett v. DePasquale)? Yes. Can judges close down a trial itself, excluding media and public (Richmond Newspapers v. Virginia)? No, the right to attend criminal trials is implicit in the grantee of the first amendment. Do television cameras in the courtroom prevent the defendant from receiving a fair trial? Sometimes, in the pre-trial stage, the jury is permeated with information about the case that will not allow a fair trial. What did the Supreme Court rule in Estes v. Texas and Chandler v. Florida? The overturning of the swindling conviction of petitioner Billy Sol Estes, holding that his 14th Amendment due process rights were violated by the publicity associated with the pretrial hearing. For Chandler v. Florida Canon cameras and electronic media are permitted in the judicial proceedings subject to the control of the presiding judge. When are TV cameras permitted in the courtroom today? Always, but it can be taken away by the presiding judge’s accord. What is the situation with respect to Federal courts? Cameras are not allowed in federal courts. Do political candidates have the â€Å"right to reply† to editorial attacks by the media? Yes. What happened to the Florida law giving them such a right when it was challenged in Miami Herald v. Tornillo? It was immediately stricken down because a newspaper involves a â€Å"crucial process† of editorial judgment that may not be regulated by the state. What is meant by â€Å"symbolic free expression?† Expressing ideas by silent, non-verbal communication. What did the Supreme Court rule in the draft-card burning case (O’Brien v. U.S.)? It was criminally illegal. Tinker v. Des Moines? Wearing black arm-bands in protest of Vietnam could not be outlawed because this form of expression is silent and caused little disruption. Do Americans have the right to burn the flag? Currently, Yes. What did the Supreme Court rule in Texas v. Johnson? It is legal free speech to desecrate a flag. U.S. v. Eichman? Flag desecration is a form of constitutional free speech. What was the fate of the Flag Protection Amendment? It fell 1 vote short with 66 for and 34 against. Only 3 republicans opposed it. How did Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton vote on the measure? They both opposed the amendment. What are â€Å"fighting words?† Inflammatory speech inviting violence, which are not protected by the 1st and 14th amendments. Calling a policeman a fascist is an example. What is â€Å"hate speech?† Speech that arouses anger, alarm, and resentment toward others on the basis of race, gender, creed, color, and religion. What did the Court decide in R.A.V. v. City of St. Paul (1992) and Virginia v. Black (2003)? Supreme court ruled that the city statute against cross burning is unconstitutional, it interferes with free speech rights. For Virginia v. Black, the court ruled that making a law against cross burning is not unconstitutional, but cross burning cannot be considered prima facie evidence of intent to discriminate. What did the Supreme Court rule in Snyder v. Phelps in 2011? Speech on the sidewalk about a public issue cannot be liable for a tort of emotional distress, even if the speech is outrageous. Court ruled 8-1 about it. Should free speech include the right to carry signs reading â€Å"God Hates Fags,† â€Å"Thank God for Dead Soldiers,† â€Å"Thank God for 9-11?† No. Have some universities, such as the University of Michigan and University of Wisconsin, gone too far in banning offensive speech (ethnic and racial slurs), according to the Federal courts? Yes, they are in violation of the first amendment. What is libel? Libel is false printed or broadcast statements that intend to damage someone’s reputation. Slander? False statements made by someone looking to damage someone else’s reputation. What are the main elements which must be established to have â€Å"actionable libel?† defamation, identification, publication, and fault. What are the main defenses used by media in libel cases? That freedom of the press is paramount in a democratic society. What was the significance of New York Times v. Sullivan? It set a standard that one cannot sue a newspaper for libel unless one can address that he/she was the defamed party. What is â€Å"actual malice?† libelous remarks with knowledge that the remarks were false, or that there was lack of disregard on whether or not the remark was true. What is â€Å"hot news† (AP.v.Walker)? news that is current and controversial, but not always journalistically accurate. What is the â€Å"prudent publisher rule† (Butts v. Curtis Publishing Co.)? Publishers must follow the professional standards of journalism. This included verification of facts, particularly when the deadline is less than monumental. What part of the Bill of Rights guarantees American citizens â€Å"Freedom of Assembly?† First amendment.m Freedom of Association? First amendment. Can cities require permits for parades, sound trucks and demonstrations? Yes Under what circumstances? To ensure peace and tranquility. Why did the ACLU argue on behalf of the Nazis in the Skokie, Illinois, case? They believed the Nazi’s potential to incite violence among the Jewish community did not warrant oppression of the right to assemble. Why was the Roberts Court’s 2010 decision striking down part of the McCain-Feingold (Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission) so controversial? It allowed corporations to fund ads and movies for and against presidential candidates. How did President Obama react to the decision? He was very mad. He said foreign businesses are going to be funding these commercials now. What impact has this decision had on American elections? It has allowed much more money to be spent on elections. Rich corporations could potentially control an election. What was the impact of the courts striking down the Arizona Citizens Clean Elections Act? It left a lot of people angry. Stating that it was meant to level the playing field, not restrict Free Speech. Those who opposed the law said in a democracy, campaigning is not supposed to be a game.

Religion: And How it Has Changed My Life Essay

After thinking about it, I thought Wicca hasn’t really changed my life that much, at least not in concrete ways. I’ve always loved the Earth and thought of it as being beautiful and precious. I’ve always been fascinated at the beauty and mystery of the Moon and the starry sky. I’ve always found Nature to be healing in an all inclusive way that encompasses the physical, mental and spiritual realms. I’ve always believed that our minds have the power to accomplish amazing things. I’ve always thought that there is much more to this Universe than what we can see with our eyes and grasp with our minds. I rejected my family’s religion, Christianity, because despite many claims of it being filled with peace and love, I found their holy book to be filled with persecution and cruelty. I was certain that no single culture had a direct-line to the Divine, that there was no â€Å"One Truth†. I became interested in natural remedies. I celebrated the seasons in my own simple manner. In many ways, I am as I always was, and yet discovering Paganism has brought major changes to my life. When I realized that there was an actual religion whose beliefs so closely matched my own, I was filled with happiness and enthusiasm. I literally spent about a year and a half utterly consumed in learning all I could get my hands on: the lore, mythology, magick and ritual. It was fascinating, and all my spare time was devoted to gathering knowledge and attempting to incorporate what seemed true into my life. I know that I will always be learning and growing in my chosen philosophy, but it is more subtle now. I know the â€Å"basics† at a basic level. I am branching out, studying mythology to an even greater depth, using meditation and divination to know myself with ever greater understanding. I am certain that each individual’s path will be unique, but I consider Wicca to be a path more concerned with who I truly am and how I connect with this Universe. These are wonderful concepts to ponder, but how has Wicca actually affected my daily life? As I thought about the question I realized that it has affected me in subtle but myriad ways. It has become a deeply intertwined part of my life. I think it affects every aspect of my day to day existence. The small rituals, that are such a part of my daily routine now, enhance my  life and make it more more meaningful and fulfilling. When I wake in the morning I step outside and greet the Sun. I feel a moment of thanks for its warmth and life-giving rays. I read a poem or a meditation about a Goddess/God. My evening routine is similar. I go out and welcome the Night, the Moon and the Stars. I acknowledge the mystery and magic that I find intrinsic in their beauty. I try to spend as much time as possible out in Nature because I realize that such time is necessary for me. I light candles and whisper heartfelt thanks and love to my Goddess and God. But these actions, while important and meaningful to me, are things I’ve added to my life as a form of worship. How has Paganism changed my everyday, mundane existence? As I mentioned earlier, I did not have much respect for Christianity when I was younger. Learning about many different religions has helped me to realize that Christianity can be a satisfying and fulfilling path for many people. It is only in the hands of extremists that it can become a path of hatred–just as with any other religion. Wicca has helped me to be tolerant of other people’s spirituality as long as they aren’t spewing prejudice and hatred for any other religion besides their own. This didn’t happen overnight. At first I was indignant about Christianity’s attempt to destroy Paganism, the cruelty of the â€Å"Burning Times† and the intolerance that some modern day Christians show toward other spiritual paths. As I read and learned and pondered the issues, I realized that even Christianity, with its horrible history and its modern day fanatics, is a valid and rewarding path for most of its adherents. For most it is a path of love and peace. I never was too concerned about keeping my room â€Å"spotless†. I’m a bit of a pack rat, and things tend to pile up. I’m also a procrastinator, it’s easy for me to put things off until I’m in the mood to do them. Now I try to keep it less cluttered and more organized. This is a direct result of Wicca, because I don’t want negativity to gain a foothold in my home. I realize that messiness can affect the feeling of my home if only in subtle ways. I’m far from perfect, but much better than I used to be and improving with time. I often had a terrible time making decisions, especially important ones,  sometimes agonizing for days or even weeks over which choice to make. Now I’ve learned several different types of divination. These help me to know my own mind and make the best decision I can without second guessing myself or wondering if I should have chosen a different route. I hardly ever prayed before becoming Wiccan. I connected it with Christianity. Now prayer has become an important part of my life. This was something I didn’t plan. It just developed naturally. Prayer gives me peace of mind at times, gives me an instantaneous response to stressors and lets me have a spontaneous and intimate relationship with Divinity. I have always written poetry. I have become more prolific. Even if my words are only beautiful and meaningful to me, poetry adds a glorious dimension to my life. It is an amazing experience to begin writing and have the words flow onto the paper without any struggle, to realize that, in some very special moments, it is as if you are a conduit to Divinity and the words are a direct connection with God/Goddess. While I don’t believe anyone can know for certain what happens after death, I have accepted reincarnation as my personal philosophy. It just makes sense to me, and it gives me comfort and peace when I am faced with the death of others or my own mortality. I have become more calm and serene. I don’t let things bother me as much as I used to. I live more in the moment now than in worrying about the past or the future. I feel an even greater sense of gratitude for my life, the blessings that I have and the beauty and wonder of this amazing Universe. Meditation has given me much benefit, but the whole philosophy of life, that I’ve embraced in the past few years, gives my existence a deeper meaning and makes sense of things that I couldn’t understand before. I have learned spellcraft and use it to improve my life. I believe that much, of the changes that magick makes, is within ones self. It gives me a confidence and a surety that affects my whole life. I believe that to make outward changes, a person must first change their inner self. That is what  magick is to me, the ability to change myself for the better, to live in harmony with those that I love and the natural world around me. It also lets me communicate my desires to the Universe, and if it be for the greater good, I know my wishes will be granted. Perhaps in a way I hadn’t anticipated, but granted nonetheless. Of course I realize I must do the mundane work, and I never ask for more than I truly need. I am not as shy as I used to be. I love writing, but just about 5 years ago, I would have been too reticent to submit my thoughts in this essay or any other something that other eyes might see. I’m in the process of created my own website, I have been for about 2 years. This was a gigantic step for me, but I felt an almost overwhelming urge to honor my Goddess and God in this way. I joined a Pagan message board about two years ago. That was another huge step for me. It took me several months of â€Å"lurking† to get up enough courage to join, but I wanted to be a part of a community of like minded people and join in on those discussions that I found so interesting. This would have been impossible for me without all the small steps I’ve taken in the last few years. You could say that most of these things would have developed anyway as I gain the experience and wisdom that comes from living more than seventeen years. That may be true, but then again it might not. I know others my age who are torn by angst, whose lives seem filled with a steady stream of problems, who are anxious and unhappy and ever searching for what will bring them contentment and fulfillment. Perhaps it’s a matter of personality or temperament. I really don’t know, but I do know that Wicca has been a catalyst for changes that have greatly improved my personal life. My spirituality gives me a satisfaction that I searched for and couldn’t find for a long time. Wicca is an intrinsic part of me now. It affects my every waking moment perhaps not consciously, but at a deeper, more profound level. Wicca answers an abiding need deep within the very core of my being. Because I have accepted and embraced its philosophy, my entire life has been affected. I am a totally different person than I was 7 or 8 years ago, yet I  am the same in many ways. I know that’s a contradiction, but I know that it’s true also. We all change subtly with the passing of time. Hopefully we change for the better. Wicca has changed my life in both great and small ways. I believe I am a better person for it.

Critique of Quentin Tarantino essays

Critique of Quentin Tarantino essays Pulp Fiction, a movie from the mid 90s made for the millennium. From the action packed mind of Quentin Tarantino, Pulp Fiction takes two hit men, Jules Winnfield and Vincent Vega through an excessively violent plot. Combining drugs and violence in a way that is unspeakable to a normal persons everyday life. With trouble around every corner, Jules (Samuel L. Jackson) and Vincent (John Travolta) must make quick work of almost everyone they come in contact with. Tarantino makes writing a dramatically intense script look easy. His genius into human behavior in this modern day world makes this movie and others undeniably classics. With intersecting storylines of gangsters and general low-lifes, Pulp Fiction grabs the attention of the viewer in the opening scene. Honey Bunny and Pumpkin, two petty thieves decide to rob an unsuspecting restaurant and get away with some quick cash. Once the two thieves start their rampage in the restaurant the opening credits begin to play. Then we are introduced to the two main characters, Jules and Vincent. This is where Tarantino really turns up the heat on the religious prospects of the movie. Jules and Vincent enter the boys apartment to receive a package for their boss Marcellus Wallace. When Jules starts in on one of the boys named Brett he recites the bible verse that he memorized in order to say some cold blooded shit to anybody he pointed a gun at (Pulp Fiction. Dir. Quentin Tarantino. Miramax. 1994.). This opens up the eyes of the viewer and really puts the fear of God in them. Tarantino knew this and by putting this verse into the character of Jules Winnfield that it would show the thin line between good and evil, thus telling you not to play God. The package the hit-men are supposed to obtain is a black briefcase. There are many different point-of-views into the real meaning behind the well k...

University of Illinois at Springfield Admissions Data

University of Illinois at Springfield Admissions Data University of Illinois at Springfield Description: The University of Illinois at Springfield is a public, four-year institution located near Lake Springfield on the southern edge of Springfield, Illinois. St. Louis, Missouri, is about 90 miles to the south. A medium sized university, UIS has about 5,000 students, a student/faculty ratio of 12 to 1, and an average class size of 15. U.S. News World Reports Americas Best Colleges 2013 ranked UIS second among public Regional Universities in the Midwest Region, and the university takes pride in being large enough to offer a broad range of academic fields, but small enough to provide students with personalized attention. UIS is part of the University of Illinois system along with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Illinois at Chicago. UIS offers a wide range of graduate and undergraduate majors, and the most popular fields span the humanities, sciences, social sciences, and professional fields. The university also offers online courses, with some undergra duate and graduate degrees offered entirely online. UIS has more than 85 student clubs and organizations on campus, as well as a range of intramural sports. For intercollegiate athletics, the UIS Prairie Stars compete in the NCAA Division II Great Lakes Valley Conference. The university fields six mens and eight womens intercollegiate sports.   Admissions Data (2016): University of Illinois - Springfield Acceptance Rate: 65%Test Scores 25th / 75th PercentileSAT Critical Reading: 423  / 598SAT Math: 463  / 548SAT Writing: - / -What these SAT numbers meanACT Composite: 20 / 26ACT English: 20 / 27ACT Math: 18 / 26ACT Writing: - / -What these ACT numbers mean Enrollment (2016): Total Enrollment: 5,428 (2,959 undergraduates)Gender Breakdown: 49% Male / 51% Female65% Full-time Costs (2016 - 17): Tuition and Fees: $11,413  (in-state); $20,938 (out-of-state)Books: $1,200 (why so much?)Room and Board: $9,600Other Expenses: $2,700Total Cost: $24,913  (in-state); $34,438 (out-of-state) University of Illinois at Springfield Financial Aid (2015- 16): Percentage of New Students Receiving Aid: 95%Percentage of New Students Receiving Types of AidGrants: 92%Loans: 55%Average Amount of AidGrants: $12,449Loans: $5,449 Academic Programs: Most Popular Majors:  Biology, Business Administration, Communication, Computer Science, English, Psychology, Social Work Graduation and Retention Rates: First Year Student Retention (full-time students): 73%4-Year Graduation Rate: 37%6-Year Graduation Rate: 50% Intercollegiate Athletic Programs: Mens Sports:  Soccer, Tennis, Golf, Basketball, BaseballWomens Sports:  Softball, Tennis, Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer, Golf Data Source: National Center for Educational Statistics If You Like UIS, You May Like These Schools as Well: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphUniversity of Illinois at Chicago:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphIllinois State University:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphEastern Illinois University:  Profile  Southern Illinois University-Carbondale:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphBradley University:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphDePaul University:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphNorthern Illinois University:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphLoyola University Chicago:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT Graph University of Illinois at Springfield Mission Statement: complete mission statement can be found at  uis.edu/strategicplan/plan/sectionone/mission/ The University of Illinois at Springfield provides an intellectually rich, collaborative, and intimate learning environment for students, faculty, and staff, while serving local, regional, state, national, and international communities.