Tuesday, August 6, 2019
Corrective And Preventive Action In Quality Management Information Technology Essay
Corrective And Preventive Action In Quality Management Information Technology Essay CAPA is an important Quality tool in the pharmaceutical industry. CAPA is defined as the corrective action and the preventive action. A corrective action is a change implemented to address a weakness identified in a management system whereas the preventive action is The action to eliminate the cause of a potential nonconformity or other undesirable potential situation. Management plays a key role in the successful implementation of the CAPA system for achieving the high quality pharmaceutical products. It helps the management to identify the problem that arises in the system and helps the administration to come up with the innovative ideas to improve the quality of the product.This Document discusses the Obstacles for achieving the integrated CAPA compliance, quality system CAPA procedure, Flow chart for implementing the CAPA system, phases of the CAPA system, benefits of the CAPA system .. In this stage of the CAPA process there must be the problem that has been identified, defined and documented. The documentation should completely explain about how the information has been gathered and it also should have the proof for the existing problem. In the appraisal stage the quality personnel member of the CAPA case will need to determine the impact of the quality on the companys overall quality management system which include cost, function, safety, quality etc.. The determination regarding impact should include the risk to the customers as well as risk to the employers. Once the impact and the risks are identified then the seriousness is determined. Based upon the companies long term experience the companies will associate the varying degree of the seriousness based upon which the necessary corrective and preventive actions will be taken. DISCOVERY:- Phase-3 discovery phase commences only when the remedial action does not solve the problem during phase-2 or when a long term action is required then the phase-3 action commences. Discovery phase is also called as the investigation phase and before the investigation commences specific goals are set in a manner such that these goals are accomplished before the phase-6.For accomplishing these goals specific strategy is developed which includes specific strategy for determining the contributing and root cause of the problem. It also include all specific circumstances related to the problem which include training, software, external factors, procedures, personnel, materials and equipment. EXAMINATION:- During the examination phase rooting out of the problem takes place after determining the possible and probable causes of the problem and data has been collected to refute these problems. The data that has been collected during this stage has been organized and documented .The sources for the examination phase can be from the testing results and review of the records, processes, service information, design control, operations which helps in determining the root cause of the problem. All the information is collected, organized and documented in readable form. ACTION AND IMPELMENTATION:- During this phase the REAL LIFE of the CAPA takes place. In this stage the investigator has to determine the root cause of the problem and he or she has to develop the methodology that prevents the problem to occur further. All the incidents in this stage are documented and for the successful implementation of this stage a successful CAPA SOFTWARE has been introduced which not only save the time and money but also keeps the records for the long term usage for tracking how the problem has been resolved. OBSTACLES FOR ACHEVING INTEGRATED CAPA COMPLIANCE:- CAPA management is an important part of the regulatory requirement which helps in reducing the liability, increases the customer satisfaction, helps in the reduction of the financial losses and strengthens the companys reputation. To achieve the maximum benefits from the CAPA, it must be an integral part of the enterprise compliance and quality management system(ECQM) which helps in the collection of the data on the existing problem, investigators will analyze the potential data, digs out the root cause of the problem, addresses the issues and follows the procedures to avoid the similar problem in the future and documents the entire process. CAPA can be effective only when it is an integral part of the companys culture. However they were many obstacles which prevents for achieving a truly integrated quality management system. Among those are the 1-DISPARATE SYSTEMS:- CAPA compliance is included in companys standard operating procedures however it is difficult to achieve the process with systems that most companies have. They are different programs that dont interface with each other, homegrown systems that dont have universal recognition, delaying the resolution of the quality issues and clouding the compliance picture. 2-LAX DOCUMENTATION:- Companies should require the centralized control without which the documentation chain required by the regulatory agencies is frequently broken. Companies should document their CAPA procedures without which the FDA will not know the CAPA requirements have been fulfilled. 3-COMMUNICATION BARRIERS BETWEEN CULTURES AND SPECILATIES:- Employees working in the company dont speak the same language, literally. In addition the terms that an engineer uses to describe a quality system may be different from that marketing manager or the compliance officer. 4-LACK OF TRAINING:- Majority of the employees that are working in the compliance issues are not well trained.so the Employees who are working in the quality management do not know, understand and take the responsibility as their role as the quality management. 5-DISCONNECT AMONG BUSINESS UNITS:- CAPA management is frequently seen as a job for the quality management but not as a concern in which production, RD, marketing or other departments which should be involved. 6-NON COLLECTION OF TRENDING DATA OR DATA NOT READILY AVAILABLE TO APPROPRIATE PERSONNEL:- Without the integrated ECQM, most departments keep the records on their own systems without which the company management cannot see the Companies compliance picture. Without this vision, the management cannot predict and prevent possible deficiency to meet the CAPA regulations. 7-SEEKING A QUICK FIX VERSUS SEEKING TO CORRECT THE ROOT CAUSE:- Companies generally focus on the product and the material issues rather than reaching below the surface to identify and address quality concerns. It results on focusing on product problems rather than on the systemic issues which prevents them to correct a root problem. However getting to the root cause is main aim of the CAPA. TRUE CAPA implementation is to identify and correct the problem by putting practices to prevent the future issues which require the integration and flow of information freely among companies various departments and locations. Five steps for success of CAPA system:- 1. Companies should implement an effective quality management system for tracking and logging the events utilizing centralized software system which helps in determining the root cause and implement an effective CAPA system. Moreover it also helps in the reduction on the boundaries between various departments. 2. Companies should implement an effective comprehensive investigation and root cause analysis which helps in developing the effective corrective and preventive action. 3. Accountability is maintained through notification and escalation procedures by utilizing the automated and the on the demand reporting. Communication helps in the resolution of the events in the timely manner whereas notification helps the management know where exactly the record is in and who is working on it. Notifications are approved to key personnel via record origination, record assignment, task completion and record approval. An escalation procedure helps in ensuring the key personnel about the dates approach and priority management responsible tool to the particular parties. 4. Easy accessibility of the Records, Notification and reports helps all the key personnel in the immediate response of the resolution process. Web based system also helps in to log in into QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM from any location which helps in quick response. 5. Effective checks are conducted to measure how well the CAPA plan worked Post implementation. A well-defined planning is essential for the elimination of the recurring events. This system helps in creating and assigning the effectiveness of the check records for each CAPA plan. If the issue is resolved, a review is conducted in the final stage. Phases of CAPA system:- CAPA system plays an important role in the quality management system. CAPA consists of the four important phases.. Phase-1: Planning Planning for the Measurement, Analysis and Improvement Process Establish the Data Sources and the Criteria Phase2: Measurement and Analysis Customer survey Service Report Process Control Complaints Supplier performance Return Product Supplier Performance Quality Audit Measurement and Analysis Phase-3 Improvement Identify the Action Identify the Root Cause Investigate Verification Of identified Action Implement Action Determine Effectiveness of Implemented Action Reporting to Management Management Review Phase 4 Input Management Sample CAPA Process Flow Factory Distributor Customer Data Corrective Action Request CRA Remediation Action RMA CAPA Completed No Action Needed CAPA Needed Root cause analysis and Corrective Action TASK Effective No YES CLOSE Requirements of Corrective and Preventive action (21 CFR 820, Subpart J) (1) For the corrective and preventive action, manufacturer should create and maintain the procedure and this procedure include some requirements for:- a) Service record complaints, Audit report of quality, records of quality, and operations of work, quality data sources to justify the obtainable and possible cause of original product. For detection of returning quality problems, this type of statistical methodology should be employed b) For the product, processes, and the system of quality, consider the cause of non-fulfillment of requirement. c) For the reappearance of unusual product and problem related to quality, recognize the corrective and preventive action. d) To decide the recognized corrective and preventive action is successful and has no adverse effect on finished devices; validate that corrective and preventive action. e) For correct and prevent recognized problem of quality it is necessary to implementing and recording the changes in method and procedure. f) Decide that information which are related to the problem of quality which is circulated and directly responsible to give surety such product quality for avoid of such problem. g) For review of Management, submit the corrective and preventive action and information of recognized problem of quality. (2) All actions necessary under this section, and their results should be documented Benefits and futures of CAPA (Fig -1- Benefits and Future of CAPA) 1.COST EFFECTIVE:-Many organizations do not implement a robust CAPA process because of its high cost.so CAPA is tracked by simple spreadsheets and home grown database which do not require full CAPA requirements. Where as Ready CAPA provides an application to meet quality management at an affordable price. 2. COMPLETE VALIDATION PACKAGE:-It is the part of the READY CAPA which ensures that the application is ready to use in days versus weeks 3. WORK FLOW APPROACH:-READY-CAPA enables to know that issues are tracked completely to resolution. CAPA helps in deciding the issues related to the problem and helps in solving and easily documented. It also helps in deciding the progress of the CAPA. 4.REGULATORY COMPLIANCE:-The procedures and policies followed by the companies must meet the regulatory compliance which includes the identification of the interphase system, constructed and tested the documents and policies and procedures. 5.CLOSED LOOP CAPA PROCESS:-It is implemented by the Ready CAPA electronic work flow. This helps in identifying the issues ,investigating the cause, action planning for the corrective and preventive action, implementing the actions, verifying the quality assurance approval, monitoring the periodic challenge option and closing 6. Closed loop CAPA helps to reduce the loss of data. 7. Closed loop CAPA management helps in providing the controlled environment. 8. CAPA helps in increasing the product quality by reducing the product cost and cycle time. Conclusion:- Now a days Quality has become an important issue in the pharmaceutical Industry. CAPA plays an important role in achieving the high quality of the pharmaceutical products. Many pharmaceutical companies are implementing the CAPA system which helps in reduction of the cost as well as improve the quality of the product. For the successful implementation of the CAPA, there should be a well-trained knowledgeable operator. The main aim of the CAPA is to identify the Root Cause of the problem and provide a solution to the problem that does not occur repetitively. Manufacturers when implementing the corrective and preventive actions must comply with the ISO standards for achieving the high quality. Management plays a key role in the successful implementation of the CAPA in the company for achieving the high quality of the product. Thus this document provides the guidance for the successful implementation of the CAPA.
Monday, August 5, 2019
Shock Advertising Effective Way To Develop Social Awareness Media Essay
Shock Advertising Effective Way To Develop Social Awareness Media Essay Mass Media is the fundamental tool in the information society. In general, Mass Media can be defined as a message sent to a lot of people simultaneously; it is the vehicle to transmit information to an audience which is most of the time, heterogeneous regarding sex, age, religion, socio-economical level, etc. Nowadays, there are several kinds of Mass Media such as the radio, the television and the newspapers etc which deliver the information through audio, visual or audio visual channels. Lets think about the function of the Mass media! It is clear that one of the main function that they fulfill is to keep people acknowledge about the most current events that happen around the world both nationally and internationally, but it is the only one function that they have?-the answer is obvisoly no;Mass Media fulfill many functions in our society , but now I am going to mention only the most important ones which are :1)inform, 2) Surveillance,3)Service the economic system ,4)Entertain 5)Hold the society together 5)Persuade , etc. Now, I want to focus myself on the third and the fifth function because they are very connects into each other. Lets analyze the following situation : economic system in any country depends on a key element called consumers, so if there are not consumers , I mean , people who buy the products and services that the market offers(food , clothes, electro domestics, etc) it could be possible that an area of the economic system suffers a crisis. If it oc curs one of the most effective way to encourage people to buy, would the use of the Mass Media as persuasive technique .So as I you see, economic system and persuasion are elements closely connected. Nowadays, one of the strongest tools that Mass Media use to persuade is Adverting. , Advertising is the attempt to inform and persuade a large number of people with a single communication (Longman, 1971). Advertising is about delivering controlled messages to many people simultaneously and at a low cost per message (Wilmshurst, 1985).The main feature of the ads is that they are created in an attractive manner for the viewers. Most of the advertisement that we watch or listen to are created for an economic purpose; they offer products and services in order to persuade the audience to buy them. But, they also can be focused on promoting certain ideas in relation with controversial topics that are currently affecting our society. At the same time they deliver information, they also dissuade people to purchase their behavior and to develop awareness in regards to social issues (heath, politics, social and environmental issues etc): in this category can be found the so- called Shock advertisements. This name refers to particular features that this type of advertising ha s such as that are controversial, disturbing , explicit and crass at the time to deliver the message( ). They also apply certain tactics to persuade their audience which are mainly, fear, guilty, compassion, etc. That way, the combination of those feelings in an announcement is supposed to work well to. But does it really work? Is shock advertising an effective way to develop social awareness? or are they just a manner of offending people? Shock ads can be effective depending on the way they appeals to audiences feelings. Shock ads appeal to the deepest feelings of fear, guilty, sadness, disgust, etc .So, they used to work with impacts images that usually show the consequences of approaching behavior.Currently, one of the most common examples of shock advertisements are related to lethal diseases that are affecting strongly to the society such as HIV, Breast cancer, diseases caused by the excessive use of cigarettes etc .Lets think in this last one, the use of cigarettes. In our society is has become very that people start smoking to early age and continue smoking during all their life. This excessive usage of cigarettes can cause serious diseases such Lung cancer and other health problems which decrease the quality of peoples life. Smoking is a dangerous vice which can end with peoples death. So, what do advertisers do to develop awareness in regard to this issue? They resort to the persuasion through the creation of shock ads which show impacts images about the negative effects of smoking in people parts of body like teeth, mouth, trachea, lungs etc. Even though, these images can impact to the audience, they also need to produce change in peoples behavior so they need to appeal to the precise feeling to obtain positive results. According to researchers in the United States, in order for anti-smoking adverts to be effective they must either scare or disgust the audience. A study by researchers at the University of Missouri has revealed that ads which have a combination of both fear and disgust content decrease viewers attention and memory but those which focus on one or the other, increased attention in viewers. But, to be honest, the fact that these images attract the viewers attention and impact them is a guarantee that they will change their behaviors and will stop smoking? And what happen when the audience becomes accustomed to see those kinds of ads? Does it cause the hopeful results? In 2009, several researches were carried out to pro the effectiveness of shocking advertisements in Great Britain and according to Professor Alex Gardner, a chartered psychotherapist and psychologist, shocking ads traditionally worked however, if the same tactics and the same message are being used all the time, and then it will only become wallpaper to a person. So, as this research shows, using the same images and tactics all the time for communicating messages to the audience doesnt work very well. Now, lets analyze what happen with the case of shock advertisement used for anti- smoking campaigns. They used to work with images that show the negatives effects of smoking in peoples body parts: damaged teeth, gory lungs, etc. That way, with the purpose of keeping peoples interest and for they dont become desensitized, advertisers use another images which are also shocking but in a different way: for example, showing pictures where a child is smoking a cigarette and is saying: I wanna be like you .What does this ad communicate? Essentially, it also talks about the consequences of smoking but through of a new message which is not as explicit as the images of damaged part of the body .This message makes people realize that when they smoke , they damage not only their heath but also theirs children heath. As Andy Nairn, the executive planning di- rector of Miles Cal crafts Briginshaw Duffy in Great Britain. Says:By featuring extreme, shocking images, youre giving people a get-out clause, making them think: I m not that bad. Shock stimuli influence in a positive way the comprehension of the messages and increase retention of them in the viewers. There are three levels of shock in advertising: visceral shock, intellectual shock, and for lack of a better term, soul shock (Bruce Grierson, 1998). So, when an audience watches a shock ad about a specific issue (social, health, environmental, etc) one of these three levels will react. Although shock advertising is effective as they attract peoples attention and facilitate retention in the viewers, they can also be people in several ways. What is more, in one of theirs definition Venkat and Abi Hanna said, shock advertising appeal and, indeed shock, is regarded as, and advertisement that deliberately offends its audience. Lets analyze what kind of offences shock ads can elicit to the audience that watch or listen to them. The offences are closely in relation with violating norms either social or religious which should not be broken up. But, what is norm violation? According to Baron and Byrne (1997), is the violation of shared expectations within a social group, of their rules what is acceptable what is unacceptable. That way, shock ads show both certain messages and images that break these norms in many ways. There are a lot of manners that advertisers can offend their audience which are :obscenity, sexual references, profanity , vulgarity ,religious taboos , etc . There are many ways in which shock ads offend people ,specially, social and religious organizations. Members of Catholic religion have been strongly offended by the images that shock ads show,. One of the most reminded ads is called kissing-nun sensual kiss with the sacred vows pronounced by men and women who enter religious orders. This advertisement caused a high impact in the viewers who are encoring to refuse the ideas and beliefs of Catholicism. This offended in a terrible way the whole catholic community. So, the use of this ad was finally banned. But lets think in the final purpose of this ad , it try to bring awareness or it is just trying to promote ideas against the Catholicism. It actually does not have a real purpose. Taking all in consideration, we are living in a society which is constantly receiving lot information. This information is delivered by the Mass Media which can be defined as a message sent to a lot people simultaneously .It is the vehicle to deliver information to the audience which is most of the time heterogeneous.Mass media is a key tool in the knowledge and information society because it fulfills several functions such as: :1)inform, 2) Surveillance,3)Service the economic system ,4)Entertain 5)Hold the society together 5)Persuade , etc.There are of these functions which are closely related: they are the economic system and to persuade. Economic system of any country depends in a direct way of a key element called costumers, that is to say, people who buy the products and services that the market offers. If there are not buyers it is probably that an economical crisis occurs. Therefore, it is necessary that exist something which encourages people to buy: Something or someone that persuade people. This is the role of a technique called advertising. Advertising is the attempt to inform and persuade a large number of people with a single communication (Longman), 1971).It needs to be created in a very attractive manner to attract audiences attention and persuade people for they to buy the products and services that the ad offers. But, ads not also offer products and services but also they promote ideas regard to social issues that are affecting our society. In that category we can find a special type of advertising which is called shock advertising. This type of ads has become very popular in our society because of the particular tactics that they use to attract the attention of the viewers. In few words, shock ads are disturbing, controversial and crass at the time to deliver the messages. They use the shock factor in order to impact their audience for influencing behavioral changes. But does it work? It is shock advertising an effective to develop social awar eness? Shock ads use the shock factor which a very strong tool at the time to attract the attention. Shock factor cause a high impact in peoples mind and help to promote changes in their behaviors. Nowadays, Shock advertisements are focused on communicates messages which have relation with health problems and its effects. Antismoking Campaigns have become popular because they used to work with shock images. That appeal to the most deepest peoples feelings..the effeteness of a shock ad depends on the way it appeal t audiences feelings , how the shock stimuli works for people to comprehend the messages and change their behavior..Shock ads can be a very useful tool to develop awareness in our society but it also can be offensive in the way they do not contribute to the society.
Sunday, August 4, 2019
timeline :: essays research papers
1945 Vannevar Bush writes an article in Atlantic Monthly about a photo-electrical-mechanical device called a Memex, for memory extension, which could make and follow links between documents on microfiche 1957 USSR launches Sputnik, first artificial earth satellite. In response, US forms the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA), the following year, within the Department of Defense (DoD) to establish US lead in science and technology applicable to the military (:amk:) 1958 In response, U.S. forms the ARPA within the Department of Defense (DoD) to establish US lead in science and technology applicable to the military. 1960s Doug Engelbart prototypes an "oNLine System" (NLS) which does hypertext browsing editing, email, and so on. He invents the mouse for this purpose. 1967 Andy van Dam and others build the Hypertext Editing System and FRESS. 1969 ARPA (Advanced Research Projects Agency) goes online in December, connecting four major U.S. universities. Designed for research, education, and government organizations, it provides a communications network linking the country in the event that a military attack destroys conventional communications systems. 1972 ARPANET a worldwide network created in the 1960s that was maintained by the US Department of Defense to facilitate communications btwn research facilities and universities. April 1972: Telnet is born. July 1972: The first Internet email message is sent and the beloved @ symbol is born 1973 -- Global Networking becomes a reality à · First international connections to the ARPANET: University College of London (England) and Royal Radar Establishment (Norway) à · Ethernet outlined -- this how local networks are basically connected today. à · Internet ideas started. à · Gateway architecture sketched on back of envelope in hotel lobby in San Francisco. Gateways define how large networks (maybe of different architecture) can be connected together. February 1973: FTP is born 1976-AT&T Bell Labs developed Unix-to-Unix Copy Protocol (UUCP). 1977 -- E-mail takes off, Internet becomes a reality à · Number of hosts breaks 100. à · THEORYNET provides electronic mail to over 100 researchers in computer science (using a locally developed E-mail system and TELENET for access to server). à · Mail specification à · First demonstration of ARPANET/Packet Radio Net/SATNET operation of Internet protocols over gateways. April 1979: Emoticons/Smileys :-) are born. 1979: USENET (newsgroups) is established, along with the first MUD (Multi-User Dungeon). 1979 -- News Groups born à · Computer Science Department research computer network established in USA. USENET established using UUCP. October 1980: The first virus attacks! 1980 ARPANET grinds to a complete halt on 27 October because of an accidentally-propagated status-message virus
Saturday, August 3, 2019
Jurgen Habermass Concept of Public Sphere :: essays research papers
Jurgen Habermas's concept of Public Sphere Jurgen Habermas developed the concept of Public Sphere, an open network to facilitate exchanges, as a part of a larger project dealing with the paradoxical consequences of rational western capitalism. The project is deeply rooted in Weber's reflections on the role of religion (Calvinism) in the development of capitalism in the North-Atlantic Rim, and the Marxist critique of such reflections as laid out by the members of the Frankfurt School (Theodor Adorno and Max Horkheimer). Adorno and Horkheimer, however, found themselves at a deadend when they were unable to de-reify their own concept of culture. It is precisely there where Habermas breaks away from the concerns of the Frankfurt School and begins his own reflection that, on the one hand, de-reifies the concept of culture (culture uiltimately is a product of institutions and human interaction and not a variable with life of its own, as Adorno and Horkheimer assumed at some point). Habermas stand on the development of capitalism leads him to recapture an insight from the old Marx: capitalism, with all its contradictions and fallacies, has the seed of its own transformation (destruction for Marx) in the form of the exchanges that it encourages, but mostly because of its very need of rational domination. If rational domination is required (as opposed to traditional or charismatic), then it is necessary to discoursevely build the agreements that the law embodies. If so, then institutions like the Parliament are unavoidable and with it some discussion of public issues and concerns. Habermas finds the origin of such discussions and concerns in the emergence of coffee-houses all over Europe during the Enlightenment era. Of course, participation in such activities was heavily restricted by class and in some cases (the European Jewish populations are a perfect example of it) by race and/or ethnicity. Habermas finds that even if such restrictions exist, the drive of the Enlightenment project will be enough to allow for progressive openings, that over time will prevent against discrimination. Habermas is well aware of the limitations of his model.
Friday, August 2, 2019
The Political Principles of Thoreau Essay -- Politics Political Essays
The Political Principles of Thoreau Henry David Thoreau was, in many ways, ahead of his time in his political beliefs. During his brief life, he lectured occasionally and struggled to get his writings published. Gaining very little recognition during his lifetime, his death in 1862 went virtually unnoticed, and his true genius as a social philosopher and writer was not fully recognized until the twentieth century. Ironically, "Civil Disobedience," the anti-war, anti-slavery essay for which he is probably best known, has become a manual for social protest by giving support to the passive resistance of Mohandas Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and other conscientious objectors (Paul 233). Thoreauââ¬â¢s "Civil Disobedience" was mainly a protest against slavery: "I cannot for an instant recognize the political organization as my government which is the slaveââ¬â¢s government also" (854). On a deeper level, the essay was a general protest against any form of political injustice and an affirmation of the obligation of passive resistance, encouraging individuals to disobey any laws they felt were unjust. In 1846 while living at Walden, Thoreau demonstrated the doctrine of passive resistance when he was arrested for not paying poll taxes because of his opposition to Texas entering the Union as a slave state and his opposition to the Mexican War. He was robbed of the chance to test the tax when he was released from jail the next day after a relative paid what was owed. Desiring to make the public aware of the abolitionist cause, Thoreau composed an essay that considered the rights and duties of the individual in relation to government. He noted that man is not bound to a government that legislat... ...bove any unsatisfactory situation in life through the power of intellect. Thoreauââ¬â¢s summation of the role of government is eloquently stated in these lines from "Civil Disobedience." "There will never be a really free and enlightened State until the State comes to recognize the individual as a higher and independent power, from which all its own power and authority are derived, and treats him accordingly" (867). Works Cited Meltzer, Milton, ed. Thoreau: People, Principles, and Politics. New York: Hill, 1963. 80-88. Paul, Sherman, ed. Walden and Civil Disobedience. By Henry David Thoreau. Boston: Houghton, 1960. 231-233. Thoreau, Henry David. "Resistance to Civil Government." The Norton Anthology of American Literature. Fifth ed. Ed. Nina Baym. New York: Norton, 1999. 852-867. "Transcendentalism." The World Book Encyclopedia. 1994 ed.
Thursday, August 1, 2019
Greatest Soldier of all time: A Look into the life of Alexander the Great
Ancient Greece became the foundation of Western Civilization. It served as the breeding ground for the development of ideas of political liberty and democratic government. Appreciation and observation of certain standards for art, science, literature and philosophy were actually rooted in ancient Greece (Cawthorne, 23). The backdrop of this very influential Greek civilization was not always a colourful hue. It was also beset by conflicts between Greek City-States, causing them to be at war with one another.How these Greek City States evolved into an empire is attributable to one manââ¬âââ¬âââ¬âa person possessing nearly deity qualitiesââ¬âââ¬âââ¬â Alexander the Great (Gergel 40). The Makings of a Great Warrior Indeed, the result of Alexanderââ¬â¢s conquests was no small feat. It is one of historyââ¬â¢s most treasured accounts of a military leader, unrivalled in military skills and brilliance. But Alexanderââ¬â¢s seemingly innate qualities were not dev eloped overnight. He laboured hard in becoming who he was in history (Roisman 45).Alexander the Great honed his skills and enriched his intellect through the guidance of a respected great thinker in the name of Aristotle. He thought Alexander to develop a scientific curiosity for things. He moulded him to better understand and appreciate the Greek culture, which is evident in Alexanderââ¬â¢s love for the arts (Roisman 45). Through Aristotleââ¬â¢s supervision, Alexander devoted a part of his life to acquiring knowledge and skills. He nourished his mind and spirit through various works of art and literature.He inculcated the philosophy and ideas derive from the written word and he dreamed of one day matching the skills of the heroes depicted in Iliad and Odyssey. Alexander loved heroic tales, a reason enough to appreciate why he ruled historical pages during his time. Establishment of a Great Empire Alexander of Macedon was born in 356 BC. Following the assassination of his fath er, Philip in 336 BC, Alexander became the ruler. This, undoubtedly, was the start of the rise of one of the greatest leader in history (Howe and Harrer 79).Alexander of Macedon was only twenty years old when he acquired the responsibility of governing his fatherââ¬â¢s land and army. Unknown to many, Alexander is set to accomplish things beyond the wildest imagination of many. Ancient Greek is destined to become recognized around the world through the efforts of a man, they call ruler (Lonsdale 52). A true heir to his fatherââ¬â¢s throne, Alexander shared the same vision for Greece, as his father did. He acquired exceptional military skill, leadership ability and an unsurpassed desire to conquer the Persian Empire.Alexander the Great made his mark in history as the greatest military leader ever to live. His unrivalled popularity was always the source of, at times controversy, more often, inspiration. He possessed unparalleled brilliance, which earned him the reputation of a da ring and intelligent ruler. This however, did not stop him from doing more. In 334 BC, he braved to cross Hellespont and freed the Greek colonies in Asia Minor. This resulted in a domino effect of empires falling one after another. He eyed Phoenicia, and then Egypt, where he founded Alexandria.His success came one after another. In 331 BC, he was triumphant in conquering Mesopotamia, which surrendered and submitted under his rule (Baldry 83). Alexanderââ¬â¢s military prowess was remarkable. After defeating the king of Persia in battle, Alexander pushed on to North Western India. He continued his invasion of empires and evidently, he achieved desired results. Between 334BC and 326 BC, Alexander, together with his exceptional army, conquered the lands from Egypt to India, without ever losing a single battle (De Santis 61; Lonsdale 54).Death of Alexander the Great: An Empire Falls Apart Alexander the Great died of a fever in 323 BC. He was almost 33 years of age when he passed away. His death had a tremendous impact on his empire. The brief period of unity that brought Greece and the Near East together had ended abruptly. As a result, his general s were unable to control the vast empire that Alexander built. This resulted to the separation of Alexanderââ¬â¢s empire into three kingdoms. Noteworthy is the fact that one of his generals, Ptolemy, ruled Egypt, while others settled in Asia and Macedonia.Alexanderââ¬â¢s Life and Contributions: an Analysis Alexander the Great started early on a life destined for greatness. His brilliance exuded more than an extraordinary military skill. It depicted him as a historical figure, worthy of adulation. But his life was never smooth sailing. Once, his right to inherit the throne of King Philip was questioned, following King Philipsââ¬â¢ marriage to Cleopatra of Macedonia. This however, did not bar him from fulfilling his destiny. As soon as he reconciled with his father, he assumed the role of a rightful heir to the throne of King Philip.It was proven when King Philip die and Alexander managed to rule over his fatherââ¬â¢s loyal subjects and lead them to conquests that later on brought them glory and honour. Alexander earned for them a reputation that is tantamount to priceless. Gaining recognition as a superior army, backed by a ruler whose brilliance is well-known, they conquered land, empires and expanded their power and influence. Alexander established his empire and manifested his power and influence throughout history. His desire to conquer Persia was no small feat. It enabled him to make his mark as a magnificent military leader and a brave one at that (Baldry 76).As a ruler, Alexander the Great made various decisions and policies that merited recognition, while some solicited controversy. An example would be the cultural influence of proskynensis. This is a Persian culture, where it is strongly encouraged to kiss the hands of people regarded as social superiors. The Greeks abhorred this practice, thinking that it is only meant for gods and goddesses, and by implementing it, Alexander was stepping up to the level of deities (Renault 34). Indeed, Alexander the Great has raised his status as a ruler.By attaining what his father Philip failed to achieve, Alexander the Great created an image of himself that is nothing short of spectacular. By strategically conquering one empire after another, he has expanded his sovereignty, and made both enemies and allies alike acknowledge the fact that he is a superb military leader who bows down to no one. The importance of Alexander the Great can be deeply felt long after he was gone. Although his empire broke apart, putting his efforts of unification to waste, his conquests had a lasting effect. This is attributable to the fact that Alexander the Great was an agent of change.Indeed, he has espoused ideals and beliefs that influenced the Greekââ¬â¢s culture whether or not it was to their liking (Renault 34). Regarded as a m agnificent military leader, Alexander the great was always one step ahead, in many respects. He encouraged the Greek soldiers, merchants and even government officials to settle in the conquered lands. This became the reason for the proliferation of the Greek culture long after his death. Through settling in the conquered land, the Greeks, by having contacts between the peoples of the Near East, became agents of spreading the Greek culture.Ultimately, Greek culture influenced the conquered landsââ¬â¢ inhabitants and soon, the transfer and absorption of the Greek culture followed. The Greek language became widely used in the Mediterranean world. People belonging to the upper-class of the society learned and adapted the Greek literature, appreciation for the arts, ideas and customs. This can be considered one of Alexanderââ¬â¢s finest works. To be able to spread the Greek culture and assimilate it into the daily lives of the people living in the conquered lands of Alexander the G reat.This symbolizes the unending tale of his heroic acts and the legacy he so desired to leave. During his conquests, Alexander the Great acquired great deal of knowledge. His travels gave him an opportunity to learn about plants, animals, geography, astronomy and philosophy. Many of the philosophers and scientists that accompanied him saw opportunities for a learning experience. Alexander advocated educating oneââ¬â¢s self through discovery of principles and gathering knowledge (Green 27). It is more evident when he founded Alexandria. Outstanding scientists and scholars were invited to work at the library of Alexandria.Many of the discoveries made still influence modern science. Alexander the Great looked into the future and linked it to the past. This is exactly what he did when he encouraged the spread of the Greek culture. It marked the opening of a new stage of civilization, more prominently termed the Hellenistic Age. The Hellenistic age provided for the avenue to lessen the discrimination between Greeks and Non-Greeks, evident in the Hellenic age. This is where the recognition of Greek culture in the Mediterranean world stemmed from (Mercer 60).The conquests of Alexander the Great proved fruitful and spawned a lot of changes in Greek civilization. The widespread acceptance of Greek culture by conquered lands elevated Alexander the Great as a ruler, a military leader and a brilliant king (Mercer 60). References: Baldry, H. C. Ancient Greek Literature in its living Context. Thames and Hudson Ltd. , 1968. Cawthorne, Nigel. Alexander the Great. Haus Publishers Ltd. 2004 De Santis, Marc G. ââ¬Å"At The Crossroads of Conquest. â⬠Military Heritage. December 2001. Volume 3, No. 3: Gergel, Tania. Alexander the Great.Penguin Group, London, 2004 Green, P. Alexander of Macedon, 356-323 B. C. Berkeley, University of California Press, 1991. Howe, George and Harrer, Gustave (editor) Greek Literature in Translation. Harper and Brothers Publisher, 1924. Lons dale, David. Alexander the Great. New York, Routledge, 2006. Mercer, Charles, The way of Alexander the Great. I Books, October 5, 2004. Renault, Mary. The Nature of Alexander. Pantheon Books, 1975. Roisman, Joseph (ed. ) Brill's Companion to Alexander the Great. Leiden: Brill Academic University of California Press, 1991. 46-55, 97.
Othello and jealousy Essay
Jealousy takes many forms and sometimes it is harmless while at other times it can be destructive. In William Shakespeareââ¬â¢s play ââ¬Å"Othelloâ⬠a man named Iago hates and is jealous of the protagonist Othello because Othello has not promoted him to position of Lietunant, so he decides to try and kill Othello. However, he first convinces Roderigo to help him because Roderigo is in love with Othelloââ¬â¢s wife Desdemona and Iago promises that he can get him together with Desdemona. With Roderigoââ¬â¢s help, Iago is able to plot a series of events which eventually leads to convincing Othello that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio, and this not only causes conflict between husband and wife, but leads to Othelloââ¬â¢s desire to kill Cassio. Thus, Shakespeare suggests that when people are conflicted with jealousy, they may hurt others and even cause their own destruction. At the beginning of the play, Iago feels jealous towards Othello and tells Roderigo that ââ¬Å"I hate the Moor: And it is thought abroad, that ââ¬Ëtwixt my sheets He has done my office: I know not ifââ¬â¢t be true; But I, for mere suspicion in that kind, Will do as if for surety.â⬠(1.3.12). Iago first states that he hates Othello for passing him over for a promotion but he hears rumors that his wife Emilia might have had a fling with Othello. Even though Iago is not sure if the rumors are true, he still decides to try and disrupt Othelloââ¬â¢s life. This reveals the buildup of jealousy and hate within him, and even without any clear reason to disrupt Othelloââ¬â¢s life, he feels the need to do create evil rumors about him in order to ruin his reputation. Moreover, Iago manipulates Roderigo in order to cause confusion and cause jealousy in Othelloââ¬â¢s mind. Iago tells Roderigo that ââ¬Å"Thou art sure of me. Go make money. I have told thee often, and I re-tell thee again and again, I hate the Moor. My cause is hearted: thine hath no less reason. Let us be conjunctive in our revenge against him.â⬠(1.3.358). Roderigo is jealous of Othello marrying Desdemona, the woman he loves and is now blinded by love so believes whatever Iago tells him. Indeed, Iago se es this opportunity and decides to take advantage and use Roderigo to plot a series of events that will lead Othello into Iagoââ¬â¢s trap. Shakespeare shows that due to Iagoââ¬â¢s evil and jealous nature, he does not want happiness for anyone and therefore uses people as tools or toys for his own purpose. Finally, Iago uses Cassio and Desdemona to make Othello think and suspect that Desdemona is cheating on him. Iago thinks to himselfà ââ¬Å"if I can fasten but one cup upon him, with that which he hath drunk to-night already, Heââ¬â¢ll be as full of quarrel and offence as my young mistressââ¬â¢ dog.â⬠(2.3.9). Iago gets Cassio drunk so he will get in a fight because he wants Cassio to be in trouble with Othello and while that is happening he knows Desdemona will intervene and try to help Cassio. Iagoââ¬â¢s actions show that he is so jealous of Cassioââ¬â¢s position that he is willing to do anything to make Cassio look suspicious. Iagoââ¬â¢s capability to portray Cassio as unreliable and untrustworthy reveals the extremes people can go to because of jealousy. Iago is willing to exploit everyone j ust to get even with Othello proving that jealousy can actually lead humans to abandon their logic. As Iagoââ¬â¢s plans to get Cassio killed continue, he successfully creates the seeds of jealousy in Othello too. Ironically, he even says to Othello that ââ¬Å"O, beware, my lord, of jealousy; it is the green-eyed monster which doth mock the meat it feeds onâ⬠(3.3.15). Iago pretends to be on the side of Othello and warns him not to be too jealous because it will lead to self-destruction. As a result, Othello naively trusts a person who is trying to lead him into self-destruction yet he does not realize this and continues to step on the traps that Iago sets up. Moreover, Othello falls deeper and deeper into Iagoââ¬â¢s master plan and begins to doubt Desdemona even though he at first wants proof of her affair. Othello reminds himself ââ¬Å"Noâ⬠¦my wife is fair, feeds well, loves company, is free of speech, sings, plays and dances well; where virtue is, these are more virtuous: â⬠¦No, Iago; ill see before I doubt; when I doubt, prove: and on the proof. There is no more but this, away at once with love or jealousy!â⬠(3.3.31). Othello refuses to be destroyed by jealousy because he can clearly see that Desdemona chose him out of love and not because of anything else, but he feels like he needs proof from Desdemona that she is not cheating on him to be truly convinced. This passage shows that even though Othello claims that he will not be conflicted by jealousy, step by step he is moving away from his claim and becomes jealous and filled with doubts. Shakespeare warns that jealousy has the capacity to make a person forget the reality and see people and situations clearly because it is such a strong emotion Finally, Emilia warns Desdemona about Othelloââ¬â¢s jealousy as she says ââ¬Å"but jealous souls will not be answerââ¬â¢d so; / They are not ever jealous for the cause, / But jealous for they are jealous: ââ¬Ëtis a monster/ Begot upon itself, born onà itself.â⬠(3.4.3). Emilia understands that jealousy is like a ââ¬Å"monsterâ⬠that comes out of nowhere and becomes worse and worse over time. This suggests that Othelloââ¬â¢s mind is being controlled and taken over by the ââ¬Å"monsterâ⬠and the jealousy in his mind can keep growing until it is finally out of control. In Othelloââ¬â¢s time, men owned women and an affair would damage a manââ¬â¢s reputation and ego more than today. Since Othello is a Moor, the thought of his wife cheating on him is even worse than if he was Venetian since Desdemona is his and she owes him loyalty. Near the end of the play, Desdemona discovers that her handkerchief is missing and asks Emilia where her handkerchief is. Emilia does not know and Desdemona says ââ¬Å"Believe me, I had rather have lost my purse / Full of crusadoes: and, but my noble Moor / is true of mind and made of no such baseness / as jealous creatures are, it were enough / /to put him to ill thinking.â⬠(3.4.7). Desdemona knows that the handkerchief is an important gift from Othello and losing it might cause doubts in Othelloââ¬â¢s mind about her loyal ty. Unfortunately, Othello is set up by Iago and finds the handkerchief and is now convinced of his wifeââ¬â¢s unfaithful character, so he murders Desdemona. After strangling Desdemona he says ââ¬Å"Behold, I have a weapon; / a better never did itself sustain / upon a soldierââ¬â¢s thigh: I have seen the day, / that, with this little arm and this good sword, / I have made my way through more impediments / than twenty times you stop: but, O vain boast!â⬠(5.2.55). Othello understands after killing her, that Desdemonaââ¬â¢s death was pointless as he is now alone without the love of his life. By the time Othello realizes that he was set up by Iago and Desdemona did not cheat on him, Othello cannot tolerate the guilt of killing her and decides to commit suicide. Before stabbing himself he says ââ¬Å"speak of me as I am; nothing extenuate / nor set down aught in malice: then must you speak / of one that loved not wisely but too well; / of one not easily jealous, but being wrou ght / Perplexââ¬â¢d in the extreme.â⬠(5.2.341-345). Othello becomes the victim of Iagoââ¬â¢s cruelty because he is unable to control jealousy, and he ends up being his own worst enemy as his jealousy becomes so powerful that he kills because of it. Shakespeare shows that jealousy can destroy not only othersââ¬â¢ lives but can lead to oneââ¬â¢s own self-destruction as people cannot see clearly and think rationally when they let such a strong emotion over-take them. Therefore, Shakespeare warns readers that they must control the jealousy in their lives because if theyà do not, they will destroy the relationships with those around them and themselves. Jealousy is one of the strongest emotions and it can come easily when a person feels like they deserve better, as Iago does, or when they are too possessive over another person, as Othello is over Desdemona. Either way, jealousy causes people to misread reality and act irrationally.
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