Effect of Shot Peening on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties Essay

Effect of Shot Peening on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties - Essay Example The subsequent literature based understanding can enable dissecting further into this field for the purpose of future developments, research and studies. Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a method through which the various components are joint together for the large purpose of creating a substance related to the 3D model data set, commonly layered one over the other, in contrast to the other methods such as that of the subtractive manufacturing methodology [1-5]. This particular method is believed to bring about the new methods and techniques which will generally make the overall process of structural design and crafting much more easily as compared to the previously existing methods and techniques. With the given modern day advancements and developments in the form of automation supported features, without the tool technique or AM supported functioning units, each will benefit from the given method and new techniques incorporated in this regard [6]. A commonly used and implemented method in this regard is that of the AM support unit in the form of Direct Metal Laser Sintering, which comes along with the feature function of generating a net-structured part and can further extended for the entire process of manufacturing through the use of the pre-alloyed powders [7-10]. Components that are generated through this method yield more accurate results and the crafted outlook is much more appreciated and encouraged in terms of quality and general outlook. [10]. Hence, shot peening is possibly an option towards making use of the techniques that enable designing any structure and any outlook based object.

Learning Styles and Theories Essay Example for Free

Learning Styles and Theories Essay There are multiple learning styles and theories that apply to individuals in multiple ways. The VARK learning style that my analysis revealed is read/write according to the questionnaire by Fleming (2001-2014). This categorization of my learning style compliments me well and I definitely agree that actually seeing the information spelled out in front of me allows me to better understand the information. The two learning theories that relate to my VARK learning style are behaviorism and constructivism. Behaviorism focusing on a clear goal with an automatic response and constructivism affording me the ability to problem solve. Being an andragogical learner I’m able to apply what I’ve learned during my pedagogical phase to my educational experiences. Let’s take a closer look at what behaviorism entails. Behaviorism focuses on the observable changes in behavior. Moreover, it’s the act of doing something new several times until it’s second nature. A prime example is while completing schoolwork the instructor provides continuous positive reinforcement; depending upon the grade the student will constantly modify their behavior until they receive positive reinforcement. According to Watson (n.d.) behaviorism’s goal is to explain relationships between precedent conditions (stimuli), behavior (responses), and consequences (reward, punishment, or neutral effect). Without the positive reinforcement the learned responses that the student exhibits will diminish. My VARK learning style relates to behaviorism by me receiving positive reinforcement through written praise; additionally, with good grades I will continue performing at the same level. Once I’ve developed an understanding of how a task needs to be accomplished I will tailor my actions towards that behavior to continue to receive that positive reinforcement and it becomes second nature. Along with observable changes in behavior, one-step further looks into constructivism and it’s aim on brain-based learning. Constructivism relies on what the learner already knows and the understanding of the subject at hand. Moreover, building new ideas or concepts are based upon current knowledge and past experiences and amplifies when actively engaged. According to Brunner (n.d.) the three stages of  intellectual development are enactive, iconic, and symbolic. Enactive is learning through actions on physical objects and the outcomes, iconic learning is through models and pictures, and lastly symbolic learning is the ability to think in abstract terms (Brunner, n.d.). Constructivism relates to my VARK learning style in the aspect that learning is ongoing and by reading and writing I’m constantly improving my skills and perception. There can be multiple interpretations of an excerpt of literature, therefore by having someone facilitate the learning process with the knowledge of my baseline understanding of the topic at hand that person can build upon it. Thus, my VARK learning style suggests I write out words repeatedly or read them to myself, which goes along with reviewing information multiple times, and learning takes time according to the principles of constructivism. As an adult learner my identified VARK learning style affects my educational pursuit positively. Falling into andragogical learning realm I have more experiences and therefore I can apply those experiences while learning. Adult learners take on the responsibility to be self-directed, and have a wealth of experience that enables them to transform information into meaningful cognitive and reality-based applications (Minter, 2011, p. 9). In retrospect the pedagogical concept requires the instructor to be more directive, placing students in a more passive role, and that students don’t have the motivation or maturity to be self-directed learners (Minter, 2011, p. 9). Applying active learning concepts such as reading and writing allows me to actively be categorized under the andragogical concept. Moreover, by writing and speaking the words to myself and reflecting to solve problems I’m practicing the concept of self-directed and problem-centered aspects of andragogical learni ng. Therefore, I will be able to apply my VARK learning style to complete my educational endeavors and continue on my path of success. The three learning theories of Behaviorism, Cognitivism, and Constructivism can be applied to any of the four learning styles (visual, aural, read/write, and kinesthetic). I feel that we cannot generalize that a student will be classified solely under one learning style, they will adapt and apply what is more appropriate given the information or circumstances.  The learning theory used depends upon the learning situation. Being identified as an andragogical learner I’m able to apply life experiences, need to know, relevance of the subject matter and how it applies to me, and use my motivation to further my educational goals with the guidance of instructors that are more like facilitators. Malcolm Knowles paved the path for educators and students alike that entail specific learning principles to enable learners to thrive educationally and without his significant contribution who knows where we would be today. References Bruner, J. (n.d.). Constructivism Discovery Learning. Retrieved from http://www.lifecircles- inc.com/Learningtheories/constructivism/bruner.html Fleming, N. D. (2001-2014). Retrieved from http://www.vark-learn.com/english/index.asp Minter, R. (2011). The Learning Theory Jungle. Journal of College Teaching and Learning, 8(6), 9. Watson, J. B. (n.d.). Behaviorism. Retrieved from http://www.lifecircles-inc.com/Learningtheories/behaviorism/Watson.html

The ethical theories of natural law and situation ethics Essay Example for Free

The ethical theories of natural law and situation ethics Essay There are two main approaches to ethics which are held by Christians today. Over the years it has proved to be a very controversial and widely debated issue. Catholics and certain other strict denominations of the Christian church hold the view that natural law should be the means of making ethical decisions, whereas more liberal Christians consider situation ethics as a more suitable ethical system to go by. Natural law was advocated by St Thomas Aquinas in the thirteenth century. It states that all ethical decisions should be made by looking at the absolute moral laws which have been laid down for us by God. For Christians these stem from The Ten Commandments. Believers in this are known as Ethical Deontologists. They maintain that an action is intrinsically good, bad, right or wrong. When faced with a moral dilemma, one should refer to the Law, irrespectively of what the outcome will be. It is suggested that the human purpose of life is to live and reproduce, to live harmoniously, to learn and to worship God. Problems can arise when the consequence of the decision causes more harm than good. An example of this can be found in Catholic moral theology abortion is immoral and can never be permitted. A loophole in this law means that a surgical procedure may be acceptable even if the result of it leads to the death of a foetus. In this case abortion isnt the primary intention, but is a by-product of the primary objective. This makes it permissible, but can lead to further problems if there are more biological complications. It is at points such as this that the basic natural law approach begins to fall apart. In this day and age it is becoming increasingly difficult to apply absolute moral laws to every situation that arises. On the basis of the principle, it could be argued that it is acceptable to kill thousands of Afghans so as to avoid the deaths of a few Americans. Evil effects can be easily justified by claiming that they are by-products of ones actions. This brings us to the question of whether God has laid down firm and unalterable rules or whether as human beings, we need to make our own moral decisions. As a result of the major flaws that appear in the theory of natural law, a Teleological approach to ethics was later introduced by the Anglican theologian, Joseph Fletcher, although the basic ideas of situation ethics have a much longer history. This relative theory of ethics is based on consequentiality the outcome of an action. The main principle of this theory is that for an action to be ethical, it simply has to be carried out in a loving manner. Nothing is intrinsically good except for love. Actions are good if they help human beings and they are bad if they hurt people there are no other criteria. What is right in one case may be wrong in another. The individual and the situation are the only important thing when making a decision, rather than applying a principle (for example thou shalt not kill). The following quotations help to summarise situation ethics, There is only one ultimate and invariable duty, and its formula is Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. How to do this is another question, but this is the whole of moral duty. (William Temple) The law of love is the ultimate law because it is the negation of law; it is absolute because it concerns everything concretethe absolutism of love is its power to go into concrete situations. (Paul Tillich) Even though the teleological approach is a relative theory of ethics, it still involves an absolute law which is to do everything in love. However, the relativity of this theory allows room for exceptions to rules. Relativism doesnt imply that anything goes. For something to be relative, youve got to have something to be a benchmark, and situation ethics states that it should be relative to love. Fletcher said that it relativises the absolute, it does not absolutise the relative! Jesus and the apostles replaced the Torah, the strict Jewish Law with the principle of love. In the New Testament Jesus condemns the Pharisees for taking the Jewish Laws to such extremes because it loses the spirit in which the Law was written. This Christian love that Jesus taught and lived is known as agape. Agape does not depend on being loved in return. The command of love calls individuals to a high level of personal responsibility. Agape is not selective and doesnt have favourites it is a matter of attitude not feeling. It desires the good of others, not of the self. Above all, Christian love is practical (James 2:14-26). Jesus tells us that we should love our enemies our neighbour is anybody and everybody. As with just about every theory of morality, situation ethics is open to a considerable amount of criticism. The notion of basing actions on consequentiality is not always helpful because it can be difficult to determine the outcomes of certain situations, especially in the long-term. Humans also tend to look at situations subjectively so it becomes easy for selfishness to taint love. It can be difficult to assess a situation with objectivity. Even some actions dont necessarily become good just because they are done from a loving motive. The two theories that I have looked at are in stark contrast to one another. I think that it is difficult, if not impossible, to say that there is one approach that should be used at all times to justify every ethical decision that needs to be made. Each situation can throw up unexpected technicalities and difficulties that we have to contend with, but that doesnt mean to say that we shouldnt make decisions on the basis of our own moral beliefs. Bishop John Robinson once wrote, There is no one ethical system that can claim to be Christian and I completely agree with that. A supporter of the natural law approach asks what the law says and the situationist asks what is the best decision to help human beings, but why cant there be a middle ground? We should be able to use what was once the Law as a guideline when making ethical decisions rather than sticking rigidly to one approach just for the sake of theological argument. The Pope believes that the Law is Gods revealed will but it could be said that God revealed his will most fully through Jesus time on Earth. Not only did He preach on the importance of love, but He also showed us perfect examples of it throughout His life. It is the subtle difference between these doctrines that lies at the heart of many issues which are in hot debate at the moment. If the Church could ignore these theological ambiguities and become reunited, perhaps they could then learn to fulfill their purpose in Christ.

Nuclear Power As A Green Energy Source Environmental Sciences Essay

Nuclear Power As A Green Energy Source Environmental Sciences Essay In todays society, nuclear energy is a high demanded source of energy. It provides electricity to households and businesses with electricity efficiently for it to be able to run. It is viewed by various political and non political groups as hazardous, threat to climate change such as global warming, and not a sustainable source of energy. Their view of producing electricity and other sources energy is to be produced from renewable sources such as wind turbines and solar power. Many researchers argue that the threat to environment from the production of nuclear energy is not the case and in fact less harmful to the globe and produces less greenhouse gases (Dawson 2003, 34), some like to see that nuclear energy has a zero carbon emission. Nuclear energy is viewed as a cost effective way of producing electricity compared to coal burning which was seen to be expensive and huge threat to the environment. 1.1 Purpose The purpose of this report is to consider whether or not nuclear power can indeed be seen as a green and sustainable green source of energy. 1.2 Scope This report considers what nuclear power is, the future energy demand in relation to global warming, the advantages of nuclear energy, disadvantages of nuclear energy such as the effects of the environment, whether it can be seen as a green solution in producing energy, and a sustainable source of energy. 1.3 Sources and Methods Information was collected from books, scholarly journal articles, green peace and greenies internet website. Nuclear Power Nuclear power is energy that is produced for the purpose of proving electricity for domestic, industrial, and other industry use (Hodgson 1999, 51). The cycle of producing energy involves mining the uranium ores, converting for fuel, enrichment, fabrication, the production of a power plant, operating, uranium processing, and waste disposal (Fthenakis and Kim 2006, 2552; Lillington 2009, 94). It is made up of a material called uranium which goes through a number of processes until is it stacked inside fuel rods. These fuel rods are then used to produce heat and steam which allows the nuclear reactor to produce energy (Fthenakis and Kim 2006, 2552). Nuclear power is seen as a hazardous process of producing electricity (Hultman 2008, 41; Greenpeace. 2010; The Greens 2010). Others view as a way of strategy to reduce greenhouse gases (Pasztor 1991, 98) and providing economic stability (Green 2008, 15). As mentioned before, environmental groups such as Greenpeace and political parties for example the Australian Greens party have fought against organisations in the matter of nuclear power and have accusing them of being the main problem for global warming. However society heavily relies on nuclear power and sees this as a demand or simply a necessity for them to use in their daily lives. Nuclear power is easy to produce, it can provide a large supply of electricity nuclear power and sees this as a demand or simply a necessity for them to use in their daily lives. Nuclear power is easy to produce, it can provide a large supply of electricity nuclear power and sees this as a demand or simply a necessity for them to use in their daily lives. Nuclear power is easy to produce; it can provide a large supply of electricity, and is very efficient if providing the demand for electricity (Sovacool 2008, 3). The use of renewable sources of energy from solar and wind would not be enough to provide energy to a house. In fact it cannot power two 60 watt light bulbs for a whole day. Future Energy Demand Nuclear power is considered to be a future energy demand in terms of carbon emissions which is related to global warming (Pasztor 1991, 105; Kessides 2009, 323). With the high demand for electricity to improve living standards, many countries are still constructing and operating nuclear plants to generate nuclear energy (Pasztor 1991, 105; Green 2008, 15; Hodgson 1999, 119). This is due to increase of population, a rise in incomes in countries which develop increases the energy demand. During 2008, the United States had approved another 30 reactors to be built (Green 2008, 15). Countries such as Germany, France, and Japan have made investments to improve their processing activities in which this will result in lower quantities of plutonium and uranium needed to generate nuclear power (Pasztor 1991, 103). As of 2005, there were twenty countries that depended on nuclear energy for the use of electricity. It is seen as a dependable source of energy that has no emission of carbon. This a lso includes the stage during the processing with fossil fuels (Lorenzini 2005, 33). In the context of global warming, research conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) show that nuclear power should be retained because it is seen as a production of energy that is carbon free (Dawson 2003, 34). Advantages Looking at the element Uranium, one pound of it contains the same energy of one millions of coal (Lorenzini 2005, 33). This means less mining activity for Uranium and requiring less energy. It is seen as been a low carbon emitter, according to Pasztor (1991, 98) it can be considered as an alternative source of energy in greenhouse gas reduction strategies. During the production of nuclear energy it is show that small amounts of air pollution along with acidic gases are created during the combustion stage of the fossil fuels (Pasztor 1991, 98). It which this can be a better alternative for producing electricity then coal. However according to Mortimer (1991, 76) nuclear power is found to offer less than its advocates imply. This is when its looked more into it. Again we can also take into account Jan Murray who represented the Uranium Institute who supports the fact the carbon dioxide is not produced by nuclear power (Mortimer 1991, 76). The sustainable development commission mentions that the production of nuclear energy can be seen as a low carbon emission (Kennedy 2007, 3710). Many organisations are currently investing in improved nuclear energy production which can be seen as a positive view, in which this will lead to a decrease in carbon emission (Kennedy 2007, 3710). Building more nuclear plants can see a reduction of gas consumption. At times when there is a shortage, large industries can take advantage of the reduction of gas for their benefit. This means a low impact on the environment, this leads to saving energy and requiring less mining, transport, and exploration (Kennedy 2007, 3711). When it comes to nuclear waste, the coal waste is seen to be more hazardous. It includes been hazardous to the environment and to our health. However nuclear power is less harmful and better for the environment (Lorenzini 2005, 34). Disadvantages For nuclear power to be produced, first a nuclear station needs to be constructed. Constructing requires concrete, aluminium, steel, diesel to operate machinery, and copper. In which they do require a large amount of it (Fthenakis and Kim 2007, 2553). The materials required for the construction is gathered from mainly mining activities. In which it is seen that mining does play a role in environmental pollution and emission of greenhouse gases (Kennedy 2007, 3711). As from 2006 cost analysis report, it is estimated to cost 2.8 billion pounds to construct a plant (Kennedy 2007, 3708). The use of Uranium to fuel the nuclear power plant are seen as highly radioactive, fuel is either disposed or reprocessed in storage casks or in pools. However the United States as having the majority of pants in the world ( ), it does not consider reprocessing fuels. Some claim to have less emission and not a contributor to global warming (Mortimer 1991, 76). However during the enrichment, operation, an d production stages of the nuclear cycle. It requires a lot of energy in order for the stages to function (Fthenakis and Kim 2007, 2553). The end of the life cycle is still accounted for greenhouse pollution. All power stations and industries that relate to it have an effect on the environment (Hodgson 1999, 117). These effects are seen as a huge impact on our health and landscape that is used for mining which can lead to destruction to the land (Hodgson 1991, 119). As mentioned before, we produce more energy to improve our living, but pollution is produced during the cycle of the nuclear power which brings our living of standard down (Hodgson 1991, 119). Generation of nuclear power produces waste which is dangerous and seen as a global problem. Usually wastes are buried underground and has a mass effect to the earth. Care is not usually taken (Hodgson 1991, 123) in which the effect of radiation pollution can occur. 6.1 Chernobyl and Three Mile Island Looking at the Chernobyl and the Three Mile Island incident (Greenpeace International 2010) these incidents lead a huge contamination to the water supply and cause of deaths in Ukraine due to radioactive pollution. The people of Ukraine have also suffered from birth defects and other cancerous illness due to the proper care not taken into place (Adamantiades and Kessides 2009, 5160). Green Energy The question is raised earlier one is whether nuclear power can be seen as green source of energy. The world has witnessed tragic incidents such as the Chernobyl and Hiroshima in which nuclear power had made a huge effect to the globe (Tilson 1996, 63; Damian 1992, 597). To some certain areas, it can be considered as a green source of energy. Adamantiades and Kessides (2009, 5151) mention that nuclear power has shown that it can avoid effects of fossil fuel pollutants. Eliminating coal and replacing with uranium would put less harm to the environment and lower the greenhouse gas emissions. The more nuclear power used to produce energy can help to reduce the use of such minerals such as lignite, hard coal, and oil. As these minerals are harmful for the environment it would mean less used in exchange for nuclear power. Lorenzini mentions that nuclear power is better for the environment and health compared to other minerals such as coal (Lorenzini 2005, 34). However political groups suc h as The Australian Greens Party argue that nuclear power is not a solution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions (The Australian Greens 2010). Also Greenpeace international claims that the use of nuclear power is a risk to humanity and the environment (Greenpeace International 2010) but Lorenzini (2005, 38) argues that the goals of nuclear power is ease the pressure on land use along with the environmental problems thats occur and eliminate emissions that contribute to climate change and human health issues. The debate on whether nuclear power is green is difficult to answer as the positives views are equal to the negative views. Sustainable Energy The question whether nuclear power can be seen as sustainable source of energy has been. As Lorenzini mentions (2005, 36) sustainability of nuclear power depends on an adequate approach to nuclear waste. This is often difficult due to the difficulties in looking for a suitable site for waste to be deposed. However the nuclear industry has faced this problem of waste disposal on whether it should disposed or reprocessed (Adamantiades and Kessides 2009, 5166). Nuclear waste is either placed in ceramic or glass containers and then taken to an appropriate area for disposal. Due to the Hazardous radiation, Uranium needs to be disposed straight after electricity is produced to in order to have a less effect on the environment (Greenpeace 2010). This is five years after the power plant has cooled down the waste in its pool in order to prevent it from melting down. Nuclear power can seen as not been sustainable, due to the fact that there is no way safe way of disposing it. Conclusion To conclude this report, we have mainly identified the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power in todays society. A lot of improvements have been made on nuclear power in terms of its performance and harm to the environment. We can see that nuclear energy is a step to been green and is replacing use of coal to provide electricity. However nuclear power is not a sustainable source of energy. As it is difficult to find storage places and the effect it has on the environment once its transferred for cooling. Many groups such as The Australian Greens Party and Greenpeace International are totally against this measure and see this as burden to the environment and to our health. But one question that is raised is that why that is these groups target nuclear power when other sources of generators such as coal are heavily used to provide electricity. Overall nuclear power is a source of energy that we heavily depend on (Sovacool 2008, 2). Renewable sources of energy from solar and wind need to be improved in order to provide the required amount of electricity that a household would require.

5 Modes Of Transportation :: essays research papers

5 Modes of Transportation   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In order to have easy mobility of persons and goods, it is necessary to have a sophisticated and widespread transportation system. This system is made up of five primary areas of transportation, which are: - Motor vehicles - Railroad transportation - Air transportation - Water transportation - Pipelines Each of these five modes consists of different subsystems which make up the system. Each mode is used to transport persons or goods, but in many instances, one mode may be favored over the others. All five modes require some primary source of funds for building and maintaining the infrastructure. These funds may come from a number of different places such as the federal government, state, or the city through which the system runs. Different government agencies have jurisdiction over the modes. These agencies focus on maintaining and improving safety of each system. The individual states also have certain obligations to the operation and regulation of the different modes of transportation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Each mode is made up of primary subsystems. The subsystems of railroad transportation include freight trains and passenger trains. Freight trains are used to transport goods and materials between cities while passenger trains are used to transport people. Although freight trains are still used all across the nation, rail intercity freight has accounted for a decreasing share of the total ton mileage over the past 30 years. This is mostly due to the increase in truck transport. Rail passenger traffic had also declined over the years until better service was offered by Amtrak and the price of fuel increased. Much of the decline in rail passenger traffic has been due to the increasing number of air passengers.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Air transport can also be divided into the subsystems of passenger and freight transport. Passenger air travel has rapidly increased over the years due to: - Increasing Gross National Product - Increasing wealth of the middle-income groups - Increasing number of nonprimary industry in the economic system - Increasing amount of general aviation - Improved technology The areas for air transport of express and freight and mail has also increased rapidly over the years. This is due mostly to improved technology which has steadily lowered the cost of air transport.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Like rail and air transport, water transportation can also be broken down to passenger and freight transport. Passenger transportation by water only accounts for a very small percentage of water transport because it is very slow and relatively inconvenient for most people. This is primarily used by people for vacation purposes. Most often, water transport is used for freight movement of items that are bulky and of low cost per unit volume.

Confucianism Essay -- essays research papers

Confucianism Confucianism is an East Asian philosophy built up by a Chinese philosopher, Confucius (K'ung Fu-tzu), in the 6th - 5th century BCE. It’s a philosophy based on human morals and relationships. To really understand Confucianism, how it originated and what parts of history contributed towards its development, you have to look into: who is Confucius, the history of Confucianism and what happened to Confucianism after the death of Confucius? Who is Confucius? Confucius was of noble descent in the state of Lu (modern Shantung). No records show him attending school even though Confucius was a well educated man. He had to make his own living at an early age. He started a political career at a young age, rising in the ranks, but fell faster than what he rose. His main goal in politics was to restore humanity and to convince various nobles to follow a certain guideline, but after he was dismissed from government, he never returned to public life. By the age of 20, Confucius decided to become a teacher, to try to change the world through what he teachers. He had a pattern of thinking that inspired many people, no matter what religion they were, most of East Asia and their way of thinking had Confucian elements in them. His policy was "accept anyone as a disciple provided that the student is willing to learn." But the violent leaders at the time, paid no attention to any of his philosophies. Confucius was one of the first and few philo sophers to leave a collection of writings behind as a source for all people (like the Bible for Catholics). History of Confucianism Confucius lived from 551BCE to 479BCE, during the Chou Dynasty, where in fact imperial rule was breaking down. High principled men originally founded then ran the Chou Dynasty, but by Confucius' time, China was going through a very difficult period where conflicts and attacks had controlled the dynasty, while usurpers took over land, this dynasty was corrupt. This period of political turmoil (770BCE-221BCE) started a new era of a "hundred schools" where teachers, such as Confucius, would move from state to state teaching their other people about their ideas and morals. This was also the time though, where prisoners were put to death in mass executions, soldiers were paid when they presented the severed heads of the enemy, whole populations that were captured were beheaded a... ... as if his life was a disappointment and a failure, but this is proven to not be true because his disciples thought he was great enough to create the book Mencius which is like the Analects. Neo-Confucianism In the East Asian countries, Confucianism was in a competition with Buddhism and Taoism. After the death of Mencius, Confucianism reemerged into a new form now called Neo-Confucianism, which is an interpretation of Confucian thought (mainly that of Mencius) that also addressed the issues of Buddhism and Taoism. So until the early 20th Century, this new philosophical force in Chinese life remained. Confucianism started off as a one man show, trying to make a difference in politics and in general, teaching people about morals and good human conduct. As history progressed, through changes of dynasties and different emperors, many new and different feelings about Confucianism emerged. But Confucius never changed what he believed in, no matter how many times his beliefs were rejected. He fought for what he new was right, and in the end didn’t achieve what he wanted to. But to everyone else, he was a brave man, a man who never gave up and a man whose legend is worth remembering.

Vampires Essay -- History, Hollywood, Lamastu, God Anu

When the word vampire is said it evokes Hollywood images of handsome men and beautiful women, seductive creatures with fangs that lure in their prey with their hypnotic stare along with their good looks, wit and charm. Once the prey is seduced the vampire goes straight for the throat, biting down and draining their blood and ultimately their life. More recently the images may be of the sexy Vampire who is trying to pass as human in some high school setting that is amazingly fast, and strong, yet trying to be sensitive. Some sparkle in the sun and others must avoid it altogether, while still others wear some enchanted ring or jewelry in order to walk in sunlight. Oh yes, and let’s not forget their ability to go on living forever because one of the most incredible qualities is a vampire’s immortality, unless they have a wood or silver stake driven through their heart, or end up decapitated and burned, which would swiftly end there immortal rain. Whichever version of vamp ire you envision will depend on the most recent book, movie, or television series you are intrigued by. These images are the glorified Hollywood images that are spoon fed to us daily, but these are not the true definitions or characteristics of a real vampire. As much as most people believe that the image of the vampire was spawned from the story of Dracula written by Bram Stoker that is certainly not the case, the story of the vampire started thousands of years ago and span the globe, and continue to engross society today. Every culture has their own story and origination point and these stories have spawned a growing fascination with vampires. It is important to look back and see where it all began in order to uncover the truth of real vampires today. One of t... ...astical ability’s to pass onto their victims through their bite or blood. Just because they are not the vampires we read about or seen on the big screen does not make them any less real. As with anything, Hollywood, and pop culture have become very good at taking the ordinary and making it bigger than it really is or more fantastical which can be with how witches, robots, and housewives are portrayed. Hopefully one day we will be able to separate the fantasy from the reality and see them for what they really are; people like you and me, going to work each day, living life a day at a time. They could be your doctor, friend, teacher or even your neighbor. People fear what they don’t understand, therefore if you look for the truth you will understand that the Real Vampires of today are not to be feared, they just have different energetic needs than the rest of us.