Paavo Nurmi :: essays research papers

Paavo Nurmi is considered by some to be the greatest runner of all time. He was known as "The King of Runners" or the "Flying Finn". Famous all over the world, Nurmi became an unending source of national pride for the newly independent Finland. Paavo Nurmi was driven by love of running. He had a burning will to succeed in life, and racing was his way to gain recognition from his fellow men and to fulfil the high standards he had set for himself. Martti Jukola, a famous Finnish sports journalist, wrote in 1935: "There was something inhumanly stern and cruel about him, but he conquered the world by pure means: with a will that had supernatural power." At three Olympic Games from 1920 to 1928 Nurmi won a total of nine gold and three silver medals. Paavo Nurmi was born on the 13th of July, 1897, at Turku, a port town on the southwestern coast of Finland. In 1912, at the Olympic Games at Stockholm, Hannes Kolehmainen "ran Finland onto the map of the world", winning three gold medals in long-distance events. His races made an indelible impression on the 15-year-old Paavo Nurmi, who decided to do the same. Soon enough, Paavo got his first pair of running shoes and began serious training. 174 centimeters tall and weighing 65 kilograms at his prime, Paavo Nurmi was ideally built for a long-distance runner. In terms of basic training knowledge, Nurmi was self-educated. He was one of the first top athletes who had a systematic approach in training. Walking, running and calisthenics were the main elements of his harsh training regimen. He learned to measure his pace and its effects with a stop watch, and never raced without one in his hand. In 1914 Paavo Nurmi joined Turun Urheiluliitto, a local sports club that he was to represent all through his career. On May 29th, 1920, at Turku, he set his first Finnish national record. The distance was 3000 meters and the time 8.36,2. The Olympic Games at Antwerp in 1920 made Paavo Nurmi a star in Finland, a worthy successor of Hannes Kolehmainen. His first Olympic race, the 5000 meters, ended in bitter defeat to Joseph Guillemot of France. This was to be the only time that Nurmi lost in an Olympic final to a foreign runner, however. In the following days he won gold medals in 10 000 meters and the cross-country race, adding a third one in the team event of the latter.

Jehovah’s Witnesses

There are various Christian sects that deviated from the Roman Catholic religion. One of them is the organization of Jehovah's Witnesses. The organization was formally established around 1870's in Allegheny, Pennsylvania (Watchtower, 1984, p. 203). â€Å"At first they were known only as Bible Students, but in 1931 they adopted the Scriptural name Jehovah's Witnesses†¦ Their beliefs are†¦ a restoration of first-century Christianity† (Watchtower, 1984, p. 203). Jehovah's Witnesses base their beliefs in accordance to the New World Translation bible. Thus, they refrain from celebrating popular, pagan practices such birthday celebrations and holidays. They also remain neutral in government affairs and abstain from blood transfusion. Witnesses do not partake in pagan festivities and activities that humans have decided for themselves. This is because they firmly believe that it contradicts bible principles and teachings. They also desire to have an everlasting life and live under God's kingdom. In order to do this they have to disassociate from anything that is not in relation to the bible. In addition, Witnesses' concept of soul, hell and baptism are also derived from the bible. Witnesses immerse themselves in religious activities such as regular bible study, publication study, and attendance meetings to gain more knowledge about Jehovah. This enables them to effectively vindicate his name, which they do by actively participating in service-also known as door to door preaching. Witnesses have thoroughly researched the origin of birthdays. In their publication, Reasoning from the Scriptures, it states that [t]he various customs with which people today celebrate their birthdays have a long history. Their origins lie in the realm of magic and religion. The customs of offering congratulations, presenting gifts and celebrating- complete with lighted candles- in ancient times were meant to protect the birthday celebrant from the demons and to ensure his security for the coming year†¦ (Schwabische Zeitung [German magazine] cited in Watchtower, 1989, p. 69). Also, [t]he custom of lighted candles on the cakes started with the Greeks†¦ Birthday candles, in folk belief, are endowned with special magic for granting wishes†¦. Birthday greetings have the power for good or ill because one is closer to the spirit world on this day (The Lore of Birthdays cited in Watchtower, 1989, p. 69-70). In addition, holidays such as Christmas, New Year and Easter also come from pagan traditions. Christmas was set on December 25 because it correspond[s] to pagan festivals that took place around the time of the winter solstice, †¦ to celebrate the rebirth of the sun†¦ The Roman Saturnalia (a festival dedicated to Saturn, the god of agriculture, and to the renewed power of the sun), also took place at this time†¦ Encyclopedia Americana cited in Watchtower, 1989, p. 176). Also, â€Å" ‘[d]uring the Saturnalia†¦ feasting prevailed, and gifts were exchanged. ‘† (Encyclopedia Americana cited in Watchtower, 1989, p. 178). Moreover, the early Christians considered the celebration of anyone's birth to be a pagan custom†¦. [This is because] [b]irthday celebrations were held in honor of pa gan deities. For example, on May 24 Romans celebrated the birthday of the goddess Diana. On the following day, they observed the birthday of their sun-god, Apollo. Hence, birthday celebrations were associated with paganism, not with Christianity (The World Book Encyclopedia cited in Watchtower, 2005, p. 157). This does not mean that Witnesses do not engage in gift-giving. Witnesses give gifts to other people but they just practice this throughout the year, when it is not expected, instead of just a couple of occasions in a year such as Christmas and birthdays. To put it in line with the scriptures, 2 Corinthians 9:7 states â€Å"Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver† (New World Bible, 1984, p. 447). Thus, occasions such as Christmas and birthdays forces a person to get something for another individual even though they may not want to. Generally, people are expected to do this because the occasion expects them to do so. Likewise, New Year was established by Julius Caesar on January 1 in 46 B. C. to dedicate a day to the Roman god Janus- deity of gates, door s, and beginnings (The World Book Encyclopedia cited in Watchtower, 1989, p. 180). Besides, the eggs associated with Easter â€Å"is the emblem of the germinating life of early spring†¦ The rabbit is a pagan symbol and has always been an emblem of fertility† (Watchtower, 1989, p. 179). Easter in fact â€Å"bears its Chaldean origin on its very forehead. Easter is nothing else than Astarte†¦ the queen of heaven†¦ [also] the dyed eggs of†¦ Easter Sunday, figured in the Chaldean rites just as they do now† (The Catholic Encyclopedia cited in Watchtower, 1989, p. 180). In short, Witnesses do not condone merry-making, gathering of family members and close friends and even gift-giving. The only thing that they have a problem with is in regards to the origin of birthdays and holidays. To stress the importance of the fact that origins do matter, [s]uppose you saw a piece of candy lying in the gutter. Would you pick up that candy and eat it? Of course not! That candy is unclean. Like that candy, holidays may seem sweet, but they have been picked up from unclean places (Watchtower, 2005, p. 159). Another matter that Witnesses do not engage in is political affairs and anything that is related to it such as saluting the flag, singing the national anthem and being enlisted in military service. Witnesses emphasize the scripture in John 18:36 to support this belief. John 18:36 states what Jesus said when he was on trial before the Roman ruler Pilate, â€Å" ‘My kingdom is no part of this world, [because if it is] my attendants would have fought that I should not be delivered up to the Jews. But†¦ my kingdom is not from this source† (New World Bible, 1984, p. 1356). This clearly shows that earthly kingdoms of any government entity do not deserve utmost devotion because they will not be able to provide eternal salvation (N. Sarmiento, 2008). In addition, Witnesses avoid blood transfusion at any cost. Abstaining from blood is stated in Acts 15:28, 29 The holy spirit and we ourselves [the governing body of the Christian congregation] have favored adding no further burden to you, except these necessary things, to keep from abstaining from things sacrificed to idols and from blood and from things strangled and from fornication. If you carefully keep yourselves from these things, you will prosper†¦ (New World Bible, 1984, p. 1383). Notice that blood is in the same category as idolatry and fornication. Therefore, [i]n God's eyes, our doing that [abstaining from blood] is as important as our avoiding idolatry and sexual immorality†¦ w]e are wise, then, to put our trust in the rightness of God's law†¦ [Witnesses] are sure that the Creator of blood knows what is best for them† (Watchtower, 2005, p. 130-131). Thus, the gravity of the matter is considered a very serious offense once it is committed. In addition, the only proper use of blood is to atone for one's sins. Leviticus 17:11 states, â€Å"For the soul of the flesh is in the blood, and I myself have put it upon the altar for you to make atonement for your souls, because it is the blood that makes atonement†¦ † (New World Bible, 1984, p. 159). Hence, Israelites used to sacrifice animal blood to atone for their sins. In earlier times, people have refrained from eating animal's blood. Considering this is the case, how much more so should people avoid human blood? â€Å"Minicius Felix (third century C. E. ) [says that]: ‘So much do we shrink from human blood, that we do not use the blood even of eatable animals in our food. ‘† (Watchtower, 1989, p. 72). Thus, Witnesses reason that In a hospital, when a patient cannot eat through his mouth, he is fed intravenously. Now, would a person who never put blood into his mouth but who accepted blood by transfusion really be obeying the command to ‘keep abstaining from†¦ blood'? Acts 15:29) To use a comparison, consider a man who is told by the doctor that he must abstain from alcohol. Would he be obedient if he quit drinking alcohol but had it put directly into his vein? (Watchtower, 1989, p. 73). Witnesses stick to their convictions because they follow what the bible says. Thus, they deem that â€Å"beliefs and practices of t rue religion are not based on human views and tradition. They originate in God's inspired Word, the Bible† (Watchtower, 2005, p. 146). Also, by observing God’s word they know that they will gain everlasting life and will be there to be apart of God’s Kingdom. This is an appealing concept to them because in God’s Kingdom â€Å"humans will no longer get sick and die†¦ under Kingdom rule they will be able to live forever. The earth will be made into paradise† (Watchtower, 2005, p. 84). Equally important is that Witnesses do not abide by popular notions about the soul. Based on research, Witnesses found out that the soul’s â€Å"immortality† started with the â€Å"Babylonians [who] believed that humans have an immortal soul that survives the body after death and can suffer in a place of torment† (Watchtower, 2005, p. 52). As for the concept of hell, scriptures such as the one in Ezekiel 18:4 mentions that â€Å"†¦The soul that is sinning-it itself will die† (New World Bible, 1984, p. 1079). Romans 6: 23 also states â€Å"The wages sin pays is death†¦ † (New World Bible, 1984, p. 1411). And 1 Thessalonian 1:8-9 says â€Å"those who do not obey the good news about our Lord Jesus. These very ones will undergo the judicial punishment of everlasting destruction from before the Lord and from the glory of his strength† (New World Bible, 1984, p. 1476-77). These scriptures just illustrate the fact that the concept of hell, which most people perceive as a fiery place of torment, is not really stated anywhere in the bible as the punishment of people who constantly go against bible principles. The only outcome of their disobedient act is that they will perish. Hence, they will not be able to live in paradise earth for eternity and enjoy the wonderful blessings that will be bestowed upon the people who make it to this place. In addition, hell does not reflect God’s true personality. Witnesses further explain this by saying, What would you think of a parent who held his child's hand over a fire to punish the child for wrongdoing? ‘God is love' [according to 1 John 4:8] Would he do what no right-minded parent would do? Certainly not! † (Watchtower, 1984, p. 174). Another argument that is used to support this can be found in Jeremiah 7:31 which states, They [apostate Judeans] have built the high places of Topheth, which is in the valley of the son of Hinnom, in order to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire, a thing that I had not commanded and that had not come up into my heart (New World Bible, 1984, p. 75). Also, the other plausible reason is that In ancient Babylo[n] and Assyri[a,] beliefs [about] the ‘nether world†¦ is pictured as a place full of horrors, and is presided over by gods and demons of great strength and fierceness'†¦ Early evidence of the fiery aspect of Christendom's hell is found in the religion of ancient Egypt (Religion of Babylonia and Assyria ci ted in Watchtower, 1984, p. 175). While Witnesses take the idea of baptism very seriously. The Reasoning from the Scriptures publication of the Watchtower defines baptism as â€Å"an outward symbol that the one being baptized has made a complete, unreserved, and unconditional dedication through Jesus Christ to do the will of Jehovah God† (Watchtower, 1984, p. 54). Hence, the decision to dedicate one's life to Jehovah requires mature thinking even by children. Witnesses have certain requirements before a child can be baptized. First of all, the child has to study the bible and Witness publications. This is because the child has to understand and accept Christian teachings and beliefs so he or she will know how to serve Jehovah properly. The child also has to talk to an elder-an adult Witness who carries numerous religious responsibilities- to discuss his or her desire to be baptized. The elder will then ask the child, when the child is ready, questions regarding Christian teachings and beliefs to see if the child can take on the responsibility of serving Jehovah. After baptism, the child is formally apart of the congregation. Witnesses go through this process because they have strict and demanding spiritual activities. Witnesses do not take spiritual activities lightly. People who have been baptized as a Witness know all too well that being a Christian becomes their main priority. They are responsible to do the will of â€Å"Jehovah God [and] it must be [their] main purpose in life† (Watchtower, 2005, p. 179). Thus, people make sure that they are living their life in accordance to bible principles. In addition, baptism â€Å"publicly indicates your desire to serve God. It shows that you are delighted to do Jehovah's Will† (Watchtower, 2005, p. 175). Being a true Christian is not easy because the world is full of temptations. To maintain strict adherence to bible principles, studying the bible and Witness publications reinforces what they know so that they can keep themselves grounded. This enables them to self-police themselves† (N. Sarmiento, 2008). While meetings-scheduled during a weekday and one every Sunday- allow Christians to know more about God through the bible (N. Sarmiento, 2008). Thus, attending meetings helps a perso n spiritually because it â€Å"increase[s] your knowledge of God† (Watchtower, 2005, p. 176). Finally, the extensive knowledge that they have accumulated is used to preach the word of God. Witnesses stress the importance of service because as â€Å"true followers of Jesus Christ [Witnesses] proclaim God's heavenly Kingdom as the only hope for mankind† (Watchtower, 2005, p. 151). Also, â€Å"most Witnesses are excited to share what they have learned and can’t wait to share it to everyone they know† (N. Sarmiento, 2008). Thus, Witnesses naturally â€Å"find it hard to keep what [they] have learned to [themselves]†¦ † (Watchtower, 2005, p. 177). Therefore, service is a way to impart what one has learned to others. Engaging in service also shows that a person is following God's teaching. Acts 10:42 states, â€Å"he ordered us to preach and to give a thorough witness† (New World Bible, 1984, p. 1376). In addition, people will not hear the good news of the kingdom if they do not go out there and preach it to people everywhere (N. Sarmiento, 2008). Jehovah’s Witnesses is an organization that has been misunderstood by most people. Indeed, most people will act indifferent-even discriminate-towards Jehovah’s Witnesses because they do not partake in birthdays, holidays, political affairs and even accept blood transfusion for their own health. Many people also think that their door to door preaching is their way of imposing their belief upon others. However, even though these people are targets of ridicule; they remain strong in their beliefs and active in their religious activities because they know that it is in accordance with bible principles. They also know that obeying God’s teachings will enable them to have everlasting life and be apart of God’s Kingdom that will come.

Margaret A Game Of Mother May I - 2044 Words

Education in Emma: A Game of â€Å"Mother May I?† It is a truth universally acknowledged that Jane Austen is the queen of depicting strong, independent heroines and dashing, empathetic heroes, as well as their witty interactions with one another. However, at their core, Austen’s novels are also about complex mother-daughter relationships. During the 1800s, the education that girls received was mainly geared towards running a household and finding wealthy husbands. As a result, mothers and governesses, who often held mother-like roles, were imperative to girls’ education, both formal and informal (Swords 80). In Pride and Prejudice, Mrs. Bennet takes every measure, for better or for worse, to ensure that her daughters find good marriages in an†¦show more content†¦Furthermore, as Emma matures, the audience gains an insight into the views of the time period toward women involved in education. The crux of Emma focuses on Emma’s relationship with Mrs. Weston, who, upon the novel’s opening, the narrator clearly indicates that Emma views as a mother: â€Å"Her mother had died too long ago for her to have more than an indistinct remembrance of her caresses; and her place had been supplied by an excellent woman as governess, who had fallen little short of a mother in affection† (Austen 1). In terms of life lessons, Mrs. Weston is the person who influences Emma the most as she grows up. It is she who instills in her good manners and morals. She teaches her to be charitable to people, no matter their social status. Her geniality and good breeding make her an ideal 18th century woman for Emma to emulate. Perhaps it is Mrs. Weston’s teachings that result in Emma frequently inviting Miss Bates, a poor widow, and Mrs. Goddard, a school principal, to her supper table. However, it is not to be implied that Miss Taylor is the perfect motherly figure for Emma. The narrator notes that Miss Taylor fails to properly administ rate Emma by letting â€Å"Emma [do] just what she likes† (1), which results in Emma’s major faults as a character, such as â€Å"having rather too much her own way, and a disposition to think a little too well of herself† (1). Ultimately, it is the informal

The Block Institute Of New York Supplies Services For...

The Block Institute of New York supplies services for individuals with developmental disabilities as well as services for their families. The team working for The Block Institute consists of; Special Education teachers, Psychologists, Physical Therapists and Speech Therapists. This institute provides children’s services with special needs ranging from three to eleven years old. Extensive evaluations and services are provided through The Block Institute, which include; Physicals, Psychiatry/ Medication Management, Psychotherapy, Psychosexuality Counseling, Cogitative Behavioral Therapy, Occupational and Physical Therapy, Speech and Language Pathology, twelve and twenty four Week Intensive Nutritional Counseling, Comprehensive Evaluations†¦show more content†¦Block Institute Clinical Services. Retrieved from http://blockinstitute.org/clinical_services.htm. The Block Institute offers a unique service, Pals with Paws. This program utilizes certified and trained dogs (and handlers) which support children in their various therapy treatments. The dogs accompany the children to their educational and their therapeutic activities. Through this exposure, the children gain great knowledge and experience to learn (and practice) responsibilities. The Block Institute caters to not only children with disabilities, but their families as well. Through The Respite program, families that consist of children with special needs can have a reprieve from caring for their child several times during the year. The Respite program occurs once a week after school, during school holidays, and at the end of the summer. Transportation is included in this service and accommodates children from seven to eight years old. The Block Institute serves as a great provider for children with special needs because of their vast array of programs and services to help benefit children and their families. This agency is designed for children of all ages, even reaching to adulthood. The Block Institute is a great environment to allow children to develop into successful adults. Similar to The Block Institute, The New York Institute for Special Education offers a variety of programs for children ranging

Essay on History Quiz - Western Civilization to Middle Ages

Introduction HIS100 History of Western Civilization to Middle Ages Lesson 5 Quiz This assignment is worth a total of 60 points. Please make sure you have answered all questions prior to submitting. Once you click the submit button, you will not be able to return to this section. Question 1 of 60 What type of columns does the Parthenon have? | Alsacian | | Ionic | | Corinthian | | Doric | Question 2 of 60 In 490 B.C.E. the Athenians defeated the Persians at the Battle of | Plataea. | | Miltiades. | | Marathon. | | Miletus. | Question 3 of 60 Which of the following was NOT true of the 490 B.C.E. Athenian victory over the Persians? | It convinced the Greeks of their cultural superiority†¦show more content†¦| | Athens and Sparta. | | Corinth and Athens. | | Sparta and Persia. | Question 19 of 60 Even though Persia lost the Persian wars, it ultimately gained some influence in Greek affairs by allying with _______ in the Peloponnesian Wars. | Athens | | Sparta | | Corinth | | Syracuse | Question 20 of 60 This Athenian politician offered an alliance with Persia in return for replacing the Athenian democracy with an oligarchy. | Lysander | | Alcibiades | | Pericles | | Themistocles | Question 21 of 60 This controversial Athenian philosopher searched for moral self-enlightenment by questioning all who claimed to possess wisdom. | Aristotle | | Plato | | Socrates | | Sophocles | Question 22 of 60 He wrote the first true history in his book of inquiries discussing the conflicts between the Greeks and Persians. | Herodotus | | Socrates | | Sophocles | | Thucydides | Question 23 of 60 He is known as the father of history. | Aristotle | | Thucydides | | Socrates | | Herodotus | Question 24 of 60 He wrote a history of the Peloponnesian War. | Herodotus | | Thucydides | | Socrates | | Dionysus | Question 25 of 60 He could be called the first political scientist. | Herodotus | | Plato | | Thucydides | | Darius | Question 26 of 60 All of the following were Athenian playwrights EXCEPT | Aeschylus. | | Aristophanes. | |Show MoreRelatedGreed Study Guide2179 Words   |  9 Pagesti Quiz V Study Guide (Greed) Humanities 102: Introduction to Western Civilization Mr. Vehse 1. 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Importance of Scientific and Technological Development in China Free Essays

string(48) " efficiently provide help to the affected area\." Countries are defined by a lot of factors, which include its geography, demography, technology, economy and military power. Whichever country is superior in all aspects gets to be described as one of the most powerful countries in the world, like America, the British Empire, and Soviet Union, for example. In the history of the world, these mentioned countries were known as superpowers and were capable of influencing other countries in major ways. We will write a custom essay sample on Importance of Scientific and Technological Development in China or any similar topic only for you Order Now In recent years, though, there is another country that is slowly on its path on having such a title as well. This country is China. China is a very famous country not only because it is one of the largest and most populated countries in the world but also because it is one of the four ancient civilizations of the world. In terms of technology in the ancient world, China was probably not far behind. After all, China was to the ancient world like America is to the rest of the world today. And in the present 21st century, China is starting to progress again as it continues to improve its technology. After all, technological development can produce a better environment for the people of a country since it could make them happier and have good, satisfying lives (Spring 119). And truthfully, technology is one of the key factors for a country to be called successful or powerful. Whoever has the advanced technology is capable of holding the world in its grip. And since this paper is about the importance of scientific and technological development in China, then it is only proper to discuss first how the science and technology of China developed from the early times to the present. Anyway, China is an emerging power that given probably a decade or so, at least, will be able to compete with America on equal footing. And that statement is not an unfounded assumption. After all, there are now books like China: Friend or Foe by Hugo de Burgh (2006) and China, Inc. : How the Rise of the Next Superpower Challenges America and the World by Ted C. Fishman (2006) that fully discuss and explain the facts behind that assumption. Importance of Science and Technology in China Pre-Imperial China China’s science and technology had been booming since the fourth century BC1. According to David Wright in his book The History of China, pre-modern China, which was 1840 and earlier, already had advanced technology in the aspects of engineering, agriculture, and warfare, to name a few. Apparently, there were a lot of inventions, discoveries and innovations that the Chinese already made years before the Western world did the same thing. For example, in agriculture, the Chinese were the first to develop the trace harness. This was a very important agricultural invention, since prior to its invention, the farm animals that were used to plow the fields were harnessed around their throats and stomachs. (40) Of course, one can only imagine the pain those animals must have gone through. Not only would such a painful experience create an uncooperative attitude for the animal, but it probably could choke the animal if it carries a heavy load. With the trace harness, a yoke was placed â€Å"†¦across the animal’s chest from which traces or shafts connected it to a carriage. 1† He adds that it was only nine hundred years later that medieval Europe harnessed farm animals in the same way. At around the same time, the Chinese also did straight-line cropping, which was only practiced by Europeans in the 18th century AD, and in the sixth century BC, started using an iron plow. In medicine, the Chinese already understood that the blood circulates around the body and that it is pumped by the heart around the second century BC. This knowledge was obtained by the Arabs who later spread it to Europe. Also two centuries earlier, they were already using natural gas as a means for heating. They were even able to transport and store it after a few innovations. And even more amazing is the fact that around the same time, someone in China already thought of the first law of Newton and defined a circle properly as shown by Mo-ist writings (Wright, 41). Then, in 14th century BC, they were already using the decimal system and already understood and used the concept of a zero. The compass and crossbow also came from the Chinese. In addition, they were also the first ones to use chemical and poison gas as weapons in battle (Wright, 42). Early Imperial China During early imperial China, around 221 BC to AD 589, technological innovations in China did not cease. The Chinese were probably the first ones to use the power of rivers and streams and the waterwheel to produce power (Wright, 64). The fact that they already had this technology during that time is already amazing. Then add the fact that they actually used this to power huge bellows for iron-casting (Wright, 64). When I imagine the movies I watch were there are medieval blacksmiths, all I can visualize are the smiths themselves or their assistants doing the bellows work. The Chinese were also the first ones to use suspension bridges. It wasn’t really a flat passage then because the â€Å"bridge followed the curved contours of the suspended rope. † (Wright, 64) But later, the Chinese were able to remedy this after their invention and use of iron-chain suspension techniques1. Then, when they first invented paper, the first kind they made were so durable, rough and hard it was not only used for writing but also for clothing, light armor, mosquito nets, and curtains (Wright 65). They were also the first ones to develop the stirrups for horses in third century AD (Wright 65) and invent and use a seismograph (Wright 66). The seismograph did not really measure the intensity of an earthquake but it could provide the direction which helped the government officials to efficiently provide help to the affected area. You read "Importance of Scientific and Technological Development in China" in category "Papers" The Chinese were already hang gliding and using parachutes long before da Vinci sketched his design of one. There were actual recorded events that the Chinese really did so like an emperor requiring prisoners to jump from unbound kites or an instance of a Chinese jumping from a height and landing safely with the use of â€Å"several large conical straw hats tied together to his body† as written by the Chinese historian Sima Qian (Wright 66). Middle and Late Imperial China According to Wright, the technological ingenuity of the Chinese ceased after Mongol conquest. However, it was also during this time that the Chinese invented and perfected one of the most important inventions that had a great impact to the world, the gunpowder. The effect of this invention is an undeniable fact and further discussion on it will be made later in the paper. Then, the Chinese also were the first to print books, but not printing itself, via woodblock printing and invent the first movable type printing. They did the latter around 1040s, four hundred years earlier than Gutenberg’s invention, but did not make further efforts on it since it was impractical to use due to the thousand individual characters present in the Chinese writing. Then, they also made the first working mechanical clock and Mercator map projections (Wright 96). In addition, the Chinese made the first vaccines against smallpox and the first phosphorescent paintings (Wright 97). Spread of the science and technology outside China From the study of world history, one can determine that there are a number of factors responsible for how a certain country is today. For example, trade between people and countries in the early times were an important source not only of livelihood but also of science and technology. Knowledge, customs and cultures can also be spread to a certain area of the world via, ironically, war or conquests and religious activity. For a number of the inventions and innovations of the Chinese, some were spread to other parts of the world, both intentionally and unintentionally, probably by trading with other people and war. For example, despite efforts of the Chinese to prohibit its spread, the crossbow and secret of papermaking still spread anyway. Especially, the papermaking techniques, which was said to have been guarded by the Chinese for centuries, were supposedly shared to the Arabs when those who knew it became prisoners after the Tang dynasty were defeated by Arab armies (Wright 65). Then, there are the stirrups that were probably shared with Westerners by the Avars, whom the Chinese also knew (Wright 66). For the most part, it was revealed that Europe, the Arabs and the countries near China, Korea and Japan, were the beneficiaries of the science and technology of China. For example, for Europe, it was probably because it was then the superpower of the world. From world history, up until World War II, Europe had a lot of Asian colonies and having read parts of the history of China, it can be seen that Europe was interested in China as well. After all, it repeatedly tried to have both a friendly and not-so-friendly relationship with China. As for the Arabs, they were basically known to be desert nomads and thus it is not impossible for them to have been to China and traded with them. And since there also came a point in Arabic history that they were able to build their own dynasty that spread by conquering in Asia, they must have been to China as well and tried to conquer parts of it. And of course, Korea and Japan are just neighboring countries of China. Eighteenth century to the present China Unfortunately, I was unable to find more technological inventions or innovations that the Chinese have made during this time. As Bodde mentions in his book, it is indeed puzzling that the Chinese did not have the same scientific and technological revolution that really changed Europe and the rest of the Western world (3). After all, the Chinese did have a civilization that had existed for so long and produced so many useful inventions and technology that are actually the groundwork of today’s advancing science and technology way before the Westerners did. To think that if the Chinese continued on with their work, it is interesting to think where they would be at this point in time. Would they be the superpower instead of America? But as Bodde writes, such decline may have something to do with the mindset of the Chinese during that time. After all, the Chinese do adhere to their Confucian beliefs which are opposed to war and competition (3). Then, there’s also the Taoist distrust of innovative technology (4). The social aspect was probably partly a reason for the decline. Or maybe, as Bodde said, the Chinese recognized the hazards of an advanced technology (4). After all, technology is like a double-edged sword. It is capable of defending one’s self and at the same time attacking others. Technology can help man have an easier life but it could also be used for his destruction. One of China’s most important inventions: Gunpowder Speaking of technology that had been used both for the good and bad of mankind, we’ll now talk about gunpowder. It’s probably weird to say that it was actually used for the good of mankind when it has been primarily and most efficiently used in war. Well, according to Embree, the Chinese weren’t looking for gunpowder when they discovered it during the Tang dynasty. In actuality, they were in search of a pill that could fight aging (849) and prolong life, in short, a form of the fabled elixir of life. The product was able to treat some skin diseases, fevers and ringworm. Its recipe was even included in some pharmacology texts. They called it huoyao, or firedrug, because of its explosive tendencies that led to fire in the alchemists’ laboratories. It was then later used for firecrackers and blasting and thus, its military applications were immediately realized. Conclusion It is ironic that the Taoists, who are known for their practices in prolonging the lives of its devotees, were the ones who produced the gunpowder which was able to do the exact opposite. As mentioned earlier, its application was mainly in the military that used it to make bombs, grenades and cannons. Earlier designs of cannons used bamboo barrels. But they were probably able to improve it since bronze cannons that date back to 1332 were unearthed and are now at the Chinese History Museum. However, it was also discovered that as early as 1128, metal bombards were already used. Then, gunpowder was also used for its rocket-propelling capabilities which the Chinese used to develop â€Å". . . more than thirty different kinds of fire-arrows designed to rain down on the enemy, explode, and catch everything around on fire. † (Embree 850) The invention of gunpowder did not have as much impact to Chinese society as its introduction to the Western world did. After all, with gunpowder, Europe was able to move out of its medieval era via destroying the frontiers of the feudal castles that ruled it then and establishing a monarchy. This monarchy then further utilized gunpowder to strengthen and stabilize its position in Europe. It was later on innovated and used in guns and artillery and as the years go on in bombs, grenades, and everything else that explodes. But with the Chinese, the gunpowder did not have such an impact, as mentioned. Embree adds that it was because during the Tang dynasty, China was already a united empire and thus did not have feudal castles to destroy like the Europeans. Of course, the Chinese did not want to share the gunpowder and the other things they invented or innovated with it. What country would? However, they were unable to stop its spread. After using it to fend off invaders like the Jurchen from forests in the northeast and the Mongols, the Chinese still lost to them anyway in 1127 and 1234, respectively. Then, the Mongols ruled â€Å". . . China and used gunpowder against the Southern Song, the Japanese, and kingdoms in Southeast Asia. † (Embree 850) As for the spread of gunpowder to the west, the Arabs are certainly not the ones responsible, even if it appeared suddenly in Italy during the fourteenth century. Embree quotes an article by Lynn White, Jr. titled â€Å"Tibet, India, and Malaya as Sources of Western Medieval Technology. † Although the article does not explicitly mention gunpowder, what he says in his article is a probable explanation of how at least the technology of gunpowder suddenly appeared in Italy. White explains that it might be because of the slave trade in Italy. Since the Muslim slaves were gruff and almost always escaped and due to canonical prohibitions, the Genoese merchants thought of securing slaves from central Asia and made it the main source of slaves. It is not impossible for the Genoese merchants to do this since they are known to have been the first Europeans to have traded with the Mongolians, Russians and the Chinese (Embree 853). In addition, the slaves that were sold were of both sexes and were relatively old enough to have accurate memories of their own homelands. A study on the records of the slaves also revealed that the majority of the slaves came from areas near Tibet and China (Embree 852). Thus, it certainly implies that the technology of the gunpowder may have been carried through to Italy and into the Western world by the Asian slaves. And gunpowder is still relevant today as the other inventions that the Chinese came up with centuries ago. In connection with that though, the thought of what the world might have been today if it was the Chinese who did it continues to bug the mind. Anyway, it certainly seems that after a long rest, the Chinese government is taking steps to revive its scientific community. China has now established its new science and technology management system that integrates science and technology with industrial and agriculture production. And with their opening up policy, its scientists and engineers concentrated on the world’s advanced level of scientific and technological development. Thus, international exchange and cooperation is now the priority of China since technology acquisition will continue to bring about changes in China’s own technology (Yu 222). An example of this is the increase in the information and communication technology in China, which has one of the world’s largest telecommunications market. Its information technology industry has also been helping the economy triple its gross domestic product (Qiang 2). Indeed, the reforms and opening up that China did brought positive effects, with a fast economic growth. With its continual development and improvement of its science and technology policies, it will certainly close the gap between those with other countries in the near future. How to cite Importance of Scientific and Technological Development in China, Papers

Verbal Misuse free essay sample

Words are potent tools. They provoke thought and incite action. When used properly, they inspire and motivate. If used improperly, however, words can have a negative effect on societal progression. As minister and Christian author Charles Capps wrote, â€Å"Words are the most powerful thing in the universe†¦Words are containers. They contain faith, or fear, and they produce after their kind. The feelings a word contains can change, one of the unique aspects of the English language. This change is not always for the better, though, as is proved through â€Å"gay† and â€Å"pimp.† If the connotations of these words remain trapped in their current reversed states, the beginning of rights for homosexuals and the end of the sale of women and children for sex are both at stake. The American College Dictionary defines â€Å"gay† as â€Å"having or showing a joyous mood† and â€Å"pimping† is an adjective recorded as â€Å"petty; weak; sickly. We will write a custom essay sample on Verbal Misuse or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page † Since the publication of the dictionary, these words have evolved to also mean â€Å"homosexual† and â€Å"procuring prostitutes,† respectively. Even so, why should their connotations reflect anything but their original meanings? Why has cheerful become negative? Why has pathetic molded into â€Å"cool†? Why is â€Å"gay† often said with a look of contempt? Why are â€Å"pimp† and â€Å"pimping† used to describe cars and clothes? There is nothing wrong with homosexuality, and there is everything wrong with selling another human being for sex. The inaccurate use of â€Å"gay† is a colossal step backwards for the homosexual rights movement. The movement is not only a fight for spousal rights, but a fight for love, acceptance, and justice. By replacing â€Å"unpleasant† and â€Å"dumb† and â€Å"awful† and â€Å"stupid†aˆâ€ among othersaˆâ€ with â€Å"gay,† one is rebelling against the approval gays so desperately need to gain in today’s society. Worldwide, there are approximately two million children forced into prostitution every year. Imagine the vast number of adults who are also affected, if that statistic solely reflects minors. Education of the accurate meaning of â€Å"pimp† is an important step toward helping women and children out of this abject existence. Envisioning the pimp lifestyle as a brightly colored suit paired with a cane, a top hat, and a girl on each arm is, for all intents and purposes, incorrect. It cannot be glorified in any way if considerable progress is to be seen. It will be even more harmful for those who grow up using these words erroneously. My mother, to this day, does not like the word â€Å"fair.† As a child, because of her dark hair, dark eyes, and pale skin, adults would often compliment her beauty by calling her fair. Since she viewed her own features as unpleasing, â€Å"fair† became a container for feelings of dissatisfaction. Once a word is set so strongly and so early in development, it is difficult to reverse psychologically. In the case of â€Å"gay† and â€Å"pimp,† the children who are not taught to use these words with their corresponding meanings, instead of their slang translations, will become misinformed adolescents and adults. They will have irrevocably attached the wrong emotions to these words, leading them away from the truth. To help homosexuals achieve the rights they deserve and to help women and children surmount the horrific life of sex trafficking, the first step is to disallow these words to be tossed around so sloppily. â€Å"Gay† and â€Å"pimp† need to contain compassion and virtue so as to provoke and incite, inspire and motivate to stand for what is right.