ShantanuT01/DACTYL-Pretraining huggingface dataset:
Introduction This has been the question since the first space venture started by Sputnik happened. There was always the common thought that space should be for peaceful purposes and there should be one mankind that makes complete use of the space rather than taking the boundaries of nation-states to it. Though this argument was supported by every one of the political heads of governments across the world, in reality, this was not happening. Heads of governments, as well as military bosses of every country, wanted to leverage this technology to their advantage. Today, the US military is dependent on artificial satellites much more than any other reconnaissance equipment. There is almost a continuous stream of input that comes to the military from the satellites and, therefore, from NASA. With this information flow happening to every one of the countries and their militaries, there is the keenness from the enemies to make an attack on these satellites that are prying on them. When the satellites are attacked, defending the satellites, and therefore, a star wars program becomes a must for the country! And our journey into the militarizing of space has started with that. Ideally, is there a need to take this journey? And what is the military’s role in space, particularly that of the US? This essay presents the pros and cons as well as important issues that abound in the presentation of these military needs that have to be met. Military in Space With the launching of artificial satellites, the space-age military had made its beginning. The satellites were made to do reconnaissance of enemy territory during peacetime as well as during wartime. With military satellites becoming more and more powerful and capable of zooming in on even the smallest component of length just over 10m, it becomes difficult for the enemy to hide any major movement of goods and troops. This helped the country to know what is happening across the globe and in all parts of it. This made the countries like the US and the erstwhile Soviet Union all the more formidable. Monitoring the movement of the troops and that of defense material in enemy territory made the other air-borne early warning systems almost redundant and also more accurate. Secondly, with the rise in the number of rocket and shuttle launches happening, it is becoming all the more important for the country to ensure that there are lots of military clouts that are strengthened. One of them is the long-range missiles that are part of the US military. With the increasing number of enemies across the globe, it is important that the country is in possession of weaponry that can be launched from the US and attacking any part of the world. This necessitates rockets that can travel across large territories and, theref
Introduction The fundamental role of the media is to build a common base for audiences to interpret news. While examining most of the Canadian news media, one is likely to notice that minorities are either scantily covered or are portrayed in demeaning terms. More than 15% of the Canadian population consists of immigrants. Of this, over 50% are minorities. However, the media have resisted this phenomenon of diversity (Herding 311-315). Some of the minorities include blacks, Muslims, Aboriginals, Asians, Latinos, Gays/Lesbians, Independents and Non-believers. The substance of this paper is to discuss how Canadian media have portrayed Aboriginal groups both in history and today. Historical outlook of Canadian media coverage of Aboriginals Historically, Canadian media served the role of government mouth piece where they perpetuated racism and ethnocentrism against aboriginal people. Phrases like the ‘redskins’ and the miserable ‘fishing tribes’ were used. Some newspapers published opinions that campaigned for the removal of aboriginals from Victoria. News media often praised the capitalists and those who supported the removal of aboriginals to enhance economic development. The media must have been obsessed with this idea that even today; it is still its preoccupation (Alia 34). The government plan to allow aboriginals autonomy did not receive much coverage. An example is given of British Columbia community Newspapers which issued a directive to its news team not to write any commentary that seemed to support such moves (Furniss 18). Apart from racial segregation, colonial newspapers advocated for aboriginals to be displaced from their ancestral habitats because there was the notion that aboriginals did not use their land appropriately. Thus issues of land use, denial of autonomy, inferiority of the aboriginals featured prominently in the news (Martinuk Para. 7). After the Métis uprising, the news media began to win over the government in the use of force against aboriginals. Reporters urged the government to protect white communities. In response, aboriginal leaders, having been keen on what was being said about them appealed against being depicted as aggressive and uncertain. They also identified the need to influence public judgment and as a result; newspapers like the Vancouver Sun begun to devote specific reporters to cover aboriginal issues. Stereotypes though continued (Herding 322). Modern news media may show more sensitivity to aboriginals than colonial newspapers but in most cases, Aboriginals are seen as the cause of their own problems; some journalists have accused them of lacking the will to end their misery soon. On the contrary, one of the strengths of the colonial press was that respect was accorded to the way aboriginals dressed in their traditional gear (Frances and Tator 1-2). Aboriginals in the Media Today As the world consciously adopts equality campaigns; film, television, and book producers in Canada have continued to show how Canadian Aboriginals are viewed. They construct the sense of view about the minorities in a way that exposes them as poor or weak (Herding 312). Thus the media can b
“Memoirs of Napoleon’s Egyptian Expedition” is a book that details the experiences of a soldier who was part of Napoleon’s Bonaparte’s army. The events that are detailed in the chosen passage happened between 1798 and 1801, when the French Imperial army invaded Egypt. The author of the chosen passage was a junior commander in Napoleon’s army. The writer traveled extensively through Egypt, and he had the opportunity to experience the Egyptian way of life both in rural and urban settings. In the above passage, the soldier offers a summarized comparison between the French and Egyptian lifestyles. Moiret talks about his new experiences with Egyptian culinary, winning habits, mode of transportation, and leisure activities. The above passage is a small part of Mouret’s book, but it reveals a lot of details concerning the author, Egyptians, the French, and imperialism. This paper explores and critically reviews the above passage and the insights that it offers to its readers. The tone that is used by Moiret in this passage reveals his discontent with the French occupation of Egypt. From the onset, it is clear that Moiret is not thrilled to be in Egypt either as a soldier or as a regular person. The root cause of Mouret’s discontent might be for several reasons. For instance, Moiret might be against the intentions of his superior master Napoleon Bonaparte. Soldiers are usually aware of the hardships of war campaigns in foreign lands. However, Moiret appears to be oblivious of the compromises that accompany war campaigns in foreign lands. Mouret’s nonchalance indicates that there is something wrong with the soldiers’ predicament. For instance, it is possible that Moiret expects his country to lessen the discomforts of the soldiers who are in a tough environment. Furthermore, Moiret notes that even the actions of his fellow countrymen are exploitive. For example, the writer observes that the Frenchmen who open inns and cafes in Cairo overcharge for their wine. Consequently, it is the soldier’s hope that an imperial regime like that of Napoleon should have the ability to check some of these injustices. On the other hand, it is possible that the tone of disappointment that is found in Mouret’s passage is just a manifestation of the soldier’s dislikes. In the passage, Moiret compares almost all aspects of life in Egypt with those in France. Comparing the quality of life in an African desert country with that of a conquering empire is unrealistic and pointless. It is unlikely that the soldier had expected to find high standards of living in Egypt. However, Mouret’s expectations come from his earlier experiences with a world-class army. Moiret was under the impression that the French army should only conquer countries and towns that are ‘worth conquering.’ The fact that Moiret lists some of the worthy towns that the French have conquered is proof that he does not hold Cairo in high regard. For example, in his passage, Moiret compares Cairo with cities such as “Milan, Padua, Leghorn, Rome, Verona, Graz, etc.” (Moiret 57). All these ci
Introduction This paper is aimed at examining the advantages and disadvantages of export-oriented industrialization. This economic policy has been described as one of the factors that contributed to the development of many less advanced countries that were able to raise their standards of living. Nevertheless, it has also been argued that this strategy can lead to exploitation of laborers and increasing inequality in the society (Schuerkens 2010, p. 102). It is necessary to focus on less developed countries which implemented this policy after the end of World War II. One should bear in mind that in the middle of the twentieth century various countries could be viewed less developed, for instance, one can mention South Korea, Taiwan, or Singapore. Moreover, it is critical to look at the experience of western countries that took a different approach. Overall, it is possible to argue that export-oriented industrialization can indeed contribute to the growth of economy because this policy can increase the income level and purchasing power of people living in less developed countries. Furthermore, in this way, the poor countries can gain financial resources that are needed for the improvement of local infrastructure. Nevertheless, policy-makers and economists should remember that the implementation of this strategy depends on such factors accessibility of market, the level of corruption, skills of local workers, and willingness of entrepreneurs to invest into new technologies. This is the main thesis that can be put forward. The underlying principles of export-oriented industrialization Overall, export-oriented industrialization can be described as the economic policy which lays stress on the production and export of those products for which a country has a comparative advantage (Bair 2009, p. 29). Moreover, it can be possible if the barriers to free trade are eliminated. For example, one can speak about such obstacles as import quotas or tariffs (Dickson 2013, p. 1991). These are the main premises of this approach. It should be borne in mind that the comparative advantage can be explained by several factors, for instance, the presence of natural resources, the availability of skilled and less expensive labor force, or even the climate of a country. In many cases, companies that are based in less developed countries can achieve leading positions in the market because their production is more cost-efficient (Dickson 2013, p. 1991). In turn, the nation that adopts this strategy has to focus on those areas where it can best compete with foreign countries. Furthermore, this policy implies that foreign market can be more profitable for a country, than the domestic one. These are the main issues that can be taken into account. After World War II, this approach to economic development has been adopted by different countries. Much attention should be paid to Asian countries such as Singapore or Taiwan. At that time, these countries were profoundly affected by poverty and increasing unemployment rates (Hamilton 1996, p.
Introduction Hinduism is one of the biggest religions, with a following of more than a billion people. Religion has evolved over the centuries, and the roots can be traced further than the Indus valley civilization and other civilizations of ancient times. The paper analyzes the key philosophy, various festivals, and holy days and also discusses Hinduism in Florida. Fundamental beliefs Hinduism has its origins in the ancient Indian subcontinent and is a way of life and living that promotes adherence to dharma or law and preaches that man is bound to his ”Karma” or fate, and this cannot be changed. The religion suggests that one pays for the sins of the previous life and suggests that eternal ”moksha” or salvation from rebirth and an escape from the wheel of life can only be attained by penance, observing rituals, fasting, and other acts of devotion. The religion preaches about practicing austerity in life, believing in non-violence, and leading a life without sins. Hinduism has more than a billion practitioners who live in India, Asian countries, and also in Europe and the USA. (Bhaskarananda, 2001). The religion is very complicated and has several sacred and holy texts that preach the philosophy of Hinduism. There are many predominant themes in the religion, and they can be grouped as ethics and duties called as ”Dharma”, the cycle of life that includes birth, living, death, and again rebirth or ”Samsara”; the salvation of liberation from the cycle of birth or ”Moksha” and the different paths and practices used to attain salvation or ”Yoga”. Hinduism is based on different concepts of the system of beliefs, and these include pantheism, polytheism, monotheism, monism, and even atheism. There are a number of Gods, and colorful and vivid stories have been narrated about them, and these stories can be found in the Bhagavad-Gita, the Ramayana, and Mahabharata. Hinduism suggests that it is the spirit or the soul called the Atman that is the true self of a person. The spirit is reborn many times and may be born in different bodies that could belong to a Kshatriya or warrior, a Brahman the holy caste, or as a Sudra, the servant, and laborer. Religion has very strongly defined codes for caste and sub-castes, and these were formed by Manu, the divine lawgiver. While Brahmins were at the top of the social order and regarded as learned scholars, the Sudras were the lowest in the social order and took up work such as manual labor and others. Kshatriyas were the warrior class, while Vaishyas were the merchant class. (Bhaskarananda, 2001). Hinduism in South Florida Florida State in the US has sizeable followers of Hinduism. The disciples include not only Indians and people from Asian countries but also US citizens who have taken up the religion and way of life. There are
The history and parentage of Gaea goddess Over 200, 000 years ago, individuals in Africa formed beliefs and myths depending on their nature of life. This resulted from realization of the fact that they are finite in nature. Due to migration of people into the ancient East, the myths found their way into Greece. Gaea is an ancient god on earth. Her siblings were among the other gods who lived on the land. All the other gods transformed into demons. Gaea was left fearing that the dead gods would finish the generations that were to come. She therefore asked the earth’s biosphere to use its force and eliminate the evil spirits. She was the only one who survived amongst that entire god’s generation. As a result, she infused her godly nature on other living beings. She was believed to be the spirit of harvest, growth, life and change of planet and its renewal. It is also believed that Gaea was the daughter of Chaos and Taturus (Conway, 1995, p. 51-57). This paper seeks to analyze various issues associated with the goddess, Gaea. The power of the goddess Mythically, Gaea, a wife and mother of Uranus, was known for her powers with regard to motherhood and prophesy. She had the power to curse and release evil spells on those who defied her rule. It is believed that Gaea’s Deep Breast hold the mountains and the sea around the earth. This power was believed to be very effective. Studies conducted on myths show that even after the male gods succeeded her Shrines, the gods still used her name when taking oaths. This shows that she was an extraordinary being (Conway, 1995, p. 53). Gaea had the power to bring chaos upon the earth. Being the great mother on earth, Gaea had sex with herself and gave birth to the sky, earth and dark void. These were symbols of maiden, mother and crone respectively. This means that she would control humanity through the use of the moon, sky and the dreaded Cronus. She also had the power to grant freedom to humans so that they could learn through experiences (Marier, & Graf, 1996, p. 80-89). In addition, she had the power to give dreams and nature plants and human beings in their growth. Her celebrations involved slaughtering of young cows. Gaea was also able to cause or deter fertility. Characteristics of this goddess that may affect or influence us today One major characteristic of Gaea is that she controlled the earth and its forces. These powers were capable of bringing natural catastrophes such as Katrina and draught. This is because she had the power over wind and production in the land. The effects of this would definitely be felt by the earth’s creatures. More so, Gaea was behind procreation abilities on people and the green vegetation and therefore the ability to decide the fate of a generation’s life (Conway, 1995, p. 51-57). Gaea is also depicted as the force behind procreation in human nature and propagation in plants. In addition, Gaea was an earth maternal goddess and hence she is a parent to all other gods that are worshipped on earth
Executive Summary Tourism sector is one of the key pillars of the economy of Hong Kong. The city has the highest number of visitors in China. The retail market in Hong Kong has changed due to the increase in number of visitors. Many companies particularly in the hotel industry are striving to keep in pace with the increase of visitors in the main land (Lew, 2003). A property boom during the review period caused an increase in rental costs. Chained retailers continued to open new outlets within areas where there is tourist footfall. The increase in rental costs enabled retailers to be creative in terms of marketing strategies. Maxim’s Limited is a food and beverage company in Hong Kong that provides catering services to mainland visitors. The company has opened several outlets in China in order to meet the needs of the increasing number of visitors. Background Maxim’s Caterer Limited is the largest food and beverage company and restaurant chain in Hong Kong, China. Dr James Tak Wu and his brother S.T.Wu together with other shareholders started the company in 1956. The Hong Kong based company controls a wide range of food and beverage outlets in China and other countries across the globe. The food outlets include fast food shops, bakeries and restaurants. Besides this, the company offers catering services to industries and commercial businesses as well as schools and hospitals in Hong Kong and other parts of China (Shangqing, 2001). The company collaborates with Starbucks coffee international company in operating Starbucks outlets in Hong Kong and other regions throughout Chinese market. Dairy International Holdings Limited owns half of the company shares. Initially the company was started as Hong Kong Caterers. It opened its first restaurant and nightclub in the old lane building. In the mid 1960s, the company converted its outlets into upper market coffee shops. It opened 20 different branches within a period of two years. It opened the first Maxim’s cakes branch in 1966 at ocean terminal together with Maxim’s restaurant to attract mainland visitors (Rowley, 2000).In
Introduction Bilingual education is a programme that is designed to offer education to foreigners or minority groups in their native language. This system has been in place for many years now and dates back to the 1960s. Its history is as follows: In the 1960s, there was a high influx of foreigners who were Spanish and Mexican. They realized that there was a problem with the current education system because most of the Spanish students were quitting school. The Spaniards did not find it relevant as they couldn’t understand what was being taught. They decided to protest against this. The American president at that time gave them a listening ear. He signed an Act allowing non English speakers to be taught in their native language and to broaden their horizons. This law was reviewed in the 1970s to rectify its anomalies and to make it more efficient. A number of questions and arguments have been put forward for or against these programmes. In this system, English is a secondary language geared to making students catch up with their academics until they can get comfortable enough to join mainstream English classes. What l think about bilingual education ‘Bilingual education is a step backward in our education system’ There are plenty of critics in the country opposing this programme and here are the disadvantages; First of all, students are denied the opportunity to improve their language skills. The question most foreign students normally ask themselves is; what is the need of improving my English when l can still acquire knowledge in another language? Consequently these students relax and may never be fluent in English. During its inception, bilingual education was formed with the main aim of preparing non- English students to fit into English speaking classes. But this good intention has remained theoretical. In reality, students simply go on and on in bilingual classes without graduating into mainstream classes (Glodis, 2000). Bilingual classes bring about isolation of students attending those classes. In most schools offering this programme, bilingual classes are situated at a totally different location from other mainstream classes. This makes the minorities appear different and other students may not view them as part of the school. In other words, discrimination may spring up. This is because students become dependent on their native language and cannot blend in with the rest of society (Rosell, 1996). Bilingual education does not allow students to enjoy benefits of both worlds. This is because students only enjoy scientific, historical and literary works in their own language. They are not able to have a deeper understanding of other people’s culture and way of thinking as views will only be from one side. Foreign students who attend mainstream classes develop a sense of tolerance of other people’s culture. They get to interact with native students and learn their way of life. However, this is not the case with bilingual programmes. Bilingual education encourages students to learn only one language. If these students were in mainstream classes, they would be proficient in two languages.