Life of Pi and Religion Essay

The Grapes of Wrath has many Religious parallels to the bible. The characters are paralleled with people from the bible, some easily recognizable. Also the Grapes of Wrath is during the Great Depression which can be an allusion to the horrible treatments and suffering times the Israelist people had to deal with reflects to this time period. The plot of John Steinbeck’s novel, The Grapes of Wrath, can easily be related to many biblical references as well as it could be applied to the daily struggles of the lives of Christians. Two particular portions of this novel stick out more than any other. Those are the characters of Jim Casey and Pa Joad. Jim Casey reminds me of Moses from the bible because in the bible Moses lead thousands of people out of harsh treatments and slavery and led them to the promises land Canon. Where Steinbeck could be referring the Joad family as the people who followed Moses and Jim is viewed as Moses who tries and lead them to a safe place where they won’t suffer anymore. Throughout The Grapes of Wrath, religious symbols crop up, explaining the significance of the section. One use of symbolism is that when on the road to California, Tom runs in to a snake. Already used in the novel is the fact that to the Joads, California represents a place of great wealth, freedom, and prosperity. It is a Garden of Eden, so to speak. The Garden of Eden had a serpent who brought the Wrath of God upon Adam and Eve. The serpent gave them with the forbidden fruit. California is forbidden to outsiders and migrants. No Okies allowed. The snake represents the Eden Serpent and its betrayal to Adam and Eve. California will betray the Joads.

Philosophical analysis Essay

Judging from the ideas raised in the Introduction of this work, it is clear that one must consider Buddhism a type of philosophy – that is, as a way of life. Many authors have already proceeded to claim that this particular religious phenomenon is chiefly characterized by the numerous practical precepts which serve as guides towards an enlightened living. It is good to note that Buddhism, pretty much like philosophy, is concerned with the pursuit of enlightenment or truth. An enlightened self – immortalized perhaps in Western Philosophy by Plato’s Allegory of the Cave – is surely the goal why one enters into philosophical discourses. In so far as Buddhism offers its own distinct ways to attain enlightenment as well, it is therefore with good reasons that one should classify this religion as philosophical in many ways. Buddhism however does not stop at stipulating suggestions for right living alone. As a system of belief, it also offers perspectives about the whole of reality. Like philosophical discourses, Buddhism is a belief system that speaks of its perspective about the ultimate realities like human existence, cosmology, human knowledge, ontology and theology. Surely, there is a need to look into these briefly Buddhism’s take on reality encourages an attitude of detachment on account of a belief that â€Å"everything is impermanent† (Griffiths, 1997, p. 16), and therefore in a state of constant flux. Much of Buddhism’s view about reality rests on the belief that the world is full of ‘diversity’, and the more is able to ‘reveal’ or appreciate it, the closer is one to the truth about the ever passing universe (Williams, 1989, p. 3). This idea is interestingly shared by an ancient Western philosopher that went by the name Heraclitus, who taught that â€Å"fire†- an element in a perpetual state of movement – is the basic element that constitutes reality. Buddhism, one need to remember, is not so much concerned with the rigorous definition of reality. But in so far it embraces an attitude of non-attachment in relating to all things, Buddhism has to anchor this belief system on a formidable reason – that one’s attachment over things is futile given the fact that all things pass away. In fact, most of what Buddhism teaches is drawn from this ontological belief; and this doctrine of impermanence must be seen as a recurrent theme in its whole system of perspective. As far as Epistemology is concerned, the doctrine of impermanence is also maintained. Buddhism teaches that nothing can be known with exact certitude because all things are ephemeral and thus, as mentioned a while ago, â€Å"they are not what they seem† (Griffiths, 1997, p. 19). Everything is subject to change and passes away. Thus, one may not arrive at a definitive knowledge about things at all. Which is why, Buddha maintained that â€Å"dissatisfaction† is a constant theme that defines the feelings of all who search for knowledge or truth (Mitchell, 2002, p. 33). No one is able to know what reality is; and its appearance is often misleading. One may notice that this epistemology is actually consistent with Buddhism’s anthropology, or, its understanding of human nature. If one checks the teachings of Buddha about man, one can clearly see the doctrine of impermanence as patent in it too. Buddha believes that human nature is nothing but a constitution of events called materiality, sensation, conceptualization, volition and consciousness (Griffiths, 1997, p. 20). This type of anthropology views man not as an existing individual substance (which most of Western Philosophy have understood what human nature is), but an â€Å"impermanent self† constituted by personal events (Griffith, 1997, p. 20). Cosmology for Buddhism follows the same line of logic. Constant flux is patent in its belief that the world follows a rhythm of birth and rebirth, of cycle and current, of existence and passage. The bulk of Buddhism’s teachings therefore solemnly enjoin its adherents to develop an attitude of detachment. Anchored on a belief that nothing in this world ever remains the same over a period of time, Buddhism points that the path towards Nirvana – or ultimate sense of bliss – lies in a state of total freedom from what this world actually offers. Lastly, it is quite interesting to point out that Buddhism rarely engages in a question about the ultimate reality or God. Broadly speaking, the whole philosophy of impermanence is at odds with a concept of deity. The general theory about God stipulates that ‘It† is a Supreme Being defined by eternality, omniscience, omnipotence and changelessness. In a belief system where the central truth about reality rests on the ephemeral nature of all things, the concept of God is really something hard to conceive (Griffiths, 1997, p. 22). How can there be such a Being when the general characteristic of all things – supposedly including God – is change and flux? More importantly, one can ask: how can one consider Buddhism a religion at all if one is not willing to reconcile its theology with its ontology? Griffith believes that the metaphysics of impermanence makes Buddhism deny the existence of God all together (Griffith, 1997, p. 23). But the image of Buddha as the exemplification of their quest for a transcendent end, translated in Nirvana, is perhaps the only figure of deity Buddhism actually posses. Conclusion Buddhism is both a philosophy and a religious movement. As a philosophy, it offers its adherents a way of life observed in a tradition marked by meditation, introspection, constant purgation of desire and an unending quest for enlightenment. As a religious movement, it is concerned with the pursuit of â€Å"transcendent ends† (Slater, 1978, p. 6) they call Nirvana. Buddhism offers its own understanding of reality too. Its doctrines are highly influenced by the teachings of its founder Gautama Buddha. In this paper, it has been noted that their belief system can also be evaluated under the categories which Western philosophy uses – metaphysics, epistemology, cosmology, anthropology and theology. These aspects are given meaning by a pervading concept of impermanence and dissatisfaction. Buddhism draws largely from a belief that everything in the world is impermanent, and that all people are enjoined to meet it with an attitude of detachment and self-control. The path towards true enlightenment happens only when one is able to see beyond what reality offers, and seek the true meaning of existence that lies only within. References Humphreys, C. (1997). A Popular Dictionary of Buddhism.Chicago: NTC. Griffiths, P. Buddhism. In Quinn, P. & Taliaferro, C. (Eds. ), A Companion to Philosophy of Religion. Massachusetts: Blackwell. McCutcheon, R. (2007). Studying Religion. An Introduction. London: Equinox. Mitchell, D. (2002). Introducing the Buddhist Experience. New York: Oxford University Slater, P. (1978). The Dynamics of Religion. Meaning and Change in Religious Traditions. San Francisco: Harper and Row. Williams, P. (1989). Mahayana Buddhism. Doctrinal Foundations. New York: Routledge.

Analyse the Pricipal Causes of the Spanish Civil War

Analyse the principal causes of the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) Many historians have said that the Spanish Civil war was fuelled by political, economical, international ambitions and social conditions. The combat which was happening between socialism and fascism that dominated Europe, around the time of the war, only made matters worse. Spain was a monarchy in 1920 when King Alphonso XIII was in reign. The monarchy collapsed during 1931 due to the fact that the Spanish people detested the King and the dictatorial regimes which he supported.The monarchy was overthrown by the republicans once the downfall of General Miguel Primo de Rivera’s government came on the 29th January 1930. The Wall Street Crash is what led Rivera and his dictatorial regime to downfall it was only normal for King Alphonso XIII and the monarchy, which were in support of Rivera’s regime, to be targeted and overthrown. Where Spain stood politically, economically and socially reveals the prime cause s of the Spanish Civil War.Throughout this essay I will be analysing the principal causes of the Spanish Civil War by looking at the political, economical and social causes which contributed towards the war. After the monarchy was overthrown, the 2nd republic was created. The 2nd republic consisted of liberals and communists, also known as the left wing. This caused tension between the left and right wing due to the fact that the right wing mostly consisted of fascists and conservatives. The left wing however, realised that they did not possess all the power by simply leading the 2nd republic.The right wing consisted of the army and the Catholic party CEDA. The army was used to being in power especially when they were under the reign of King Alphonso XIII (because of his dictatorial means) so when the new government (led by Manuel Azana) decreased the army’s political importance and their costs were cut it only angered the right wing even further causing more of a tension bet ween both wings. CEDA, the right wing party, dedicated to protecting the authority of the Roman Catholic Church and landlords, was led by Gil Robles and had the support of many Spaniards from the upper classes.The government started addressing and attacking churches and land owners claiming that they had too much privileges in the society, the government only did this once they realised the power CEDA possessed and the influence and support that it has. The attack was seen as a means to alter and redeem some of the power which CEDA possessed, however this was a fail. This is when the fight between fascism and socialism began to take place; building up, along with other causes, to the Spanish Civil War.Spain’s economy was very poor and the Wall Street Crash only made it worse for Spain. Spain had an underdeveloped industrial sector that made them suffer economically. Industrial workers could not get jobs and the threat of inflation only made matters worse. The government wasnà ¢â‚¬â„¢t in support of peasants or landlords and this widened the gap between the poor and the rich. It became evident to the poor that the government were not supporting them resulting in the government losing support. All these issues were making Spain more and unstable both socially and economically.Spain suffered from agricultural poverty, land was owned by the wealthy and the wealthy preferred to benefit from their own wealth rather than grant land to peasants. The government introduced the Agrarian law of 1932 which was the distribution of land among peasant, this process however was failure and the government then introduced the Cases Viejas revolt during 1933, this however led to the suppression of members of the right wing by the government and this suppression lost them a great deal of support.Due to the great deal of support which the government lost, over the accusations of government troops killing 25 people in search of anarchists, Azana resigned from Prime Minister an d the elections which were called in November 1933 were won by CEDA. The most vital issue which caused social unrest was the independence which Basque and the province Catalonia region were demanding. These regions were culturally and ethically different from the rest of the country hence why they wanted to separate themselves and constitute their own government.This did not go down well with the army, who were in the right wing, due to the fact that they preferred the idea of unity instead of the idea of autonomy. The army’s state of thinking almost reflects Spain’s old-fashion social structure where the rich had the â€Å"bread† and left the peasants with â€Å"crumbs†. Wealthy landlords and ‘aristocracy’ had extensive political influence and used it in favour of themselves.The right wing, specifically CEDA and the army were representing the upper class as well as defending the Roman Catholic Church; the army played more of a role in taking full advantage of its power rather than defending the Roman Catholic Church or representing the upper class. The left wing, however, were willing to give Basque and Catalonia their independence. They were following in the footsteps of the British government in the sense they wanted everyone to be equal in the eyes of the law.The right wing did not accept any changes made after the monarchy was abolished as they were clear representatives of the privileged and the rich; this difference in interest between the two parties caused some social instability. To make matters worse the radical left wing had carried out and displayed many acts of violence, weakening the already feeble country. Overall, the difference of interest within the left, right wing and the radical left contributed to the arrival of the Spanish Civil war.The society was unsure and had little faith in Spain due to its poor and failing economy. The social tension which arose from Basque and Catalonia’s demand for independence, only added to the many other problems that Spain was already struggling to handle. The social, economical and political causes of the Spanish Civil war has been analysed in the essay and it can be summed up that the main causes was the social instability and the difference of interest between the political parties. BIBLIOGRAPHY http://ibhistory. wikidot. com/4

Critical thinking Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Critical thinking - Essay Example I was interested in determining whether media stereotyping of the Arab world was justified or not. The video allowed me to understand that the media portrayed a negative picture of the Middle East region resulting into possible negative implications on its relationship with western countries. It is through this video that I now understand that the media fails to demonstrate that there are specific extremist groups that mastermind terrorists and they do not represent the Middle East or Arab world in general. It is because of this stereotyping that the western society has negative perceptions and attitudes about Arabs. While watching this movie, I realized that the western media is interested more in profits than the negative social, political and religious consequences that they caused within the world in general. The stereotyping has for instance resulted in racist perceptions, which tend to associate Arabs with terror related crimes. The negative image on the Islamic religion, as portrayed in the western media has also caused general or global distrust and the widening of the gap between Christians and Muslims. This video influenced my learning more because it motivated me to conduct further inquiries into the historical relationships between the west and the Arab world. I realized that this relationship have been worsened by cases of terror attacks and the misleading pictures on Hollywood blockbusters. This is due to the reality that most of the terror attacks on western soils have been attributed to Muslims from the Middle East or Arab countries. The second issue that significantly influenced my learning processes during the course is the contribution of the Arabs towards modern civilization. My interest in the history of contemporary civilization caused me to inquire further into discoveries by the Arabs, which have made the modern

An analysis of literature relating to illegitimate work and it's Essay

An analysis of literature relating to illegitimate work and it's contribution to the labour market - Essay Example In many societies the same people who financial support prostitution when encounter with other about the topic claim they are against it due to social taboos that force people to take a position which they truly do not support. This paper analyzes and examines the subterranean economy which includes the sexual marketplace. The underground economy involves the occurrence of economic activity that is not detected by the government and is not included as part of the official figures since they are not suppose to exist tax is not imposed upon them (Varian, 2003). This underground economy affects the flow of the economy since the flow derived from these activities ends up being laundered in the economy by using the illegal income to purchase goods and services in the economy. In the United States the size of the underground economy is approximately 13% to 14% the size of the legal economy (Gutmann, 1983). Among the many activities make up the composition of the subterranean economy are prostitution, drug trade, labor of illegal immigrants, trafficking of illegal precious metals, gambling activities of bookies, or any other form of labor such as a babysitting jig that does is not accounted for by the government as a form of income. It is estimated that the subterranean economy creates between 15 to 20 milli on jobs in the United States (Baird, 2007). This a positive consequence of this type of activity, but in general the jobs generated by this economy the workers such as prostitutes and drug sellers working on the spot are workers whose human rights are constantly abused by the gangster who controlled this marketplace. Prostitution is one of the segments of the underground economy. Worldwide the sex game is valued at over $12 billion a year a figure that does don’t account the revenues generated in the pornography industry which is a multibillion dollar industry that is legal activity which the considers in its official numbers, but there is a lot of

Sport Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Sport Development - Essay Example Sport, exercise and physical education notably have a definite point of convergence which must not be ignored for the continued growth of the three distinct activities. The need for establishment, across the world, of a system that accurately integrates sports, exercise and physical education is currently an urgent need. The implementation of policies that promote the development of social networks aligned to the three activities is more than a necessity in the United Kingdom (McDonald 2005). In view of the current state of affairs, Lawson argues most world systems are not directed toward a new type of Exercise, Sport, and Physical Education (SEPE) social work. An analysis of this statement awakens the considerate person to the fact serious doubts and important questions remain unanswered as to whether SEPE programs, practices, and professionals, are worthwhile investments for governments (Lawson 2005). SEPE professionals should contribute in the formulation and evaluation of government policies concerning sporting, physical education and exercises. A variety of subjects will be analysed in the following section concerning what ought to be done to make investment in SEPE worthwhile for government. Management development can be taken to mean the process through which managers acquire and improve their competencies both for personal benefit and benefit of their employers. It has been proven over time that effective management is one of the major determinants of the organisation's success. When managers learn vital skills through exposition while doing their jobs in an informal setting and the process is formalised, then it is in no doubt management development. Management development among other things includes undertaking various formal courses which include technical aspects as well as management skills, work-based informal training and a wide range of educational courses (Girginov, 2008). According to some authors, development management is viewed in the context of deliberate actions to make progress in the course of history while others argue that it is a management style that is development oriented (Thomas,1999). In this context, good development management should consistently promote developmental values at all levels irrespective of whether it is the easiest way of achieving success in particular developmental tasks. SEPE professionals need to take actions in evaluating current curricular regarding training of coaches, sports people and sports administrators with the aim of ensuring that government policies are implemented and only high quality managers are released into the market. Collaboration Collaboration is a process which involves two or more parties working together for a common goal. Collaboration in SEPE will help in building consensus, learning and sharing knowledge as well as in developing creative skills. A collaborative environment is important for the development of sports, exercise and physical education. Such an environment will be beneficial to coaches, players, children and athletes at all developmental stages in the particular sport they engage in. Collaboration should be encouraged between groups and networks backed up with a

Create a Design for a Wireless Campus Area Network Essay

Create a Design for a Wireless Campus Area Network - Essay Example Lot of learning institutes has implemented a Campus area network. The campus area network connects to two or more local area networks of any two remote offices within limited geographical locations. The connectivity involves synchronization of data and applications such as intranet (Campus area network.2007).The network devices and computing equipments have to be reliable and extendable, if the faculty staff increases. The network design for the CAM requires an expandable and efficient network that will fulfill the requirements of speed, distance and cost. Radio Frequency Solution The radio frequency solution is quite achievable in the current scenario. As the city government offices require wireless connectivity ‘access points’ are of major concern. ‘Access points’ are the deployed to connect devices equipped with wireless technology. ‘Access points’ transmits and receive radio signals adjacent to a network hub over a limited distance. However, distance varies from different model types and the technology adopted. An IEEE 802.11n wireless network standard is recommended for connecting all the city government offices. 802.11n supports transmission speeds up to 150 Mbps and beyond. 802.11n works on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands (802.11n definition from PC magazine encyclopedia). Cisco is recommended for the Wi-Fi solution.

Mobile device policy in healthcare Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Mobile device policy in healthcare - Essay Example The PHI usually contains detailed information of patients including social security codes, identification details, residential, email and physical addresses, vehicle identifiers, certificates and license numbers, and biometric identifiers (HIPPA, 2015). It is because of containing such information that PHI deserves treatment and handling with highest possible security to protect privacy. Clinical practitioners in the outpatient surgery center have the on-work privileges to use PHI. Practitioners will use mobile devices to access the PHI of patients only when within the surgery center. No person will carry the mobile device out of the premises of the surgery center. Every practitioner shall bear full responsibilities in case of physical damage of the mobile devices with PHI. The PHI of every patient has unique security preferences, and clinical practitioners should consult patients where access of critical information has restrictions. No practitioner shall plug any foreign device except chargers into the PHI mobile devices. After every use, clinical practitioners should ensure to log out the PHI accounts accessed. 4. The devices shall have a central management point with internal networking limited within the surgery center. Exchange of information can only happen via the central management point (American Bar Association, 2015). HealthIT. Gov. (2014). Your Mobile Device and Health Information Privacy and Security. Retrieved March 4, 2015 from:

Investing in Savings Bonds Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Investing in Savings Bonds - Coursework Example They have been done on an annual basis from January 2011 to January 2012. The calculations are for $ 50, $ 100, $ 500, and $ 5,000. Series Denom Issue date Next accrual Final maturity Issue price Interest Interest rate Value EE $ 50 01/2011 02/2012 01/2041 $ 25.00 $ 0.12 0.60% $ 25.12 EE $ 100 01/2011 02/2012 01/2041 $ 50.00 $ O.24 0.60% $ 50.24 EE $ 500 01/2011 02/2012 01/2041 $ 250.00 $ 1.20 0.85% $ 251.20 EE $ 5000 01/2011 02/2012 01/2041 $ 2,500.00 $ 12.00 0.60% $ 2,512.00 EE $ 50 01/2011 02/2012 01/2041 $ 50.00 $ 0.76 3.06% $ 50.76 EE $ 100 01/2011 02/2012 01/2041 $ 100.00 $ 1.52 3.06% $ 101.52 EE $ 500 01/2111 02/2012 01/2041 $ 500.00 $ 7.60 3.06% $ 507.60 EE $ 5,000 01/2011 02/2012 01/2041 $ 5,000.00 $ 76.00 3.06% $5,076.00 EE savings bonds EE Savings bonds are low risk savings that are safe and pay interests basing on the current market rates. These savings bonds may be purchased directly via TreasuryDirect. If one is a owner of an account in TreasuryDirect then he can purcha se, manage, and redeem the bonds through a web browser (Thau, 20010. These savings bonds can be used to fund education, complement retirement income, and offered as a gift. The current interest rate of these savings bonds is at 0.60% which is a fixed rate. The minimum purchase is $ 25 while the maximum is $ 10,000. E savings bonds This savings were introduced in 1941. These savings bonds were being promoted as war bonds by the government of United States between 1941 and 1980. The minimum purchase is $ 25 while the maximum is $ 10,000. These savings bonds were advertised through the media and other channels thus they became popular during those times until 1980.in 1980 the series was substituted by the EE savings bonds. The savings bonds had two maturity periods of 40 years and 30 years respectively (Lasser, 2011). I savings bonds These are the newest savings bonds and they are almost similar to the EE bonds. The difference between the two comes in the calculation of their reset int erest rates. These begin earning interest immediately after issue. These savings binds can be redeemed at any time after a one year holding period. Their security is accrual-type and if they have any interest it is usually included to the bond every month. They are low risk and they earn interest while at the same time protecting the owner from inflation. They may be purchased via TreasuryDirect or with IRS tax refund. They can also be purchased directly from ones web browser. The least purchase for this is $ 50 while buying paper bonds with IRS tax refund and $ 25 when purchased directly via TreasuryDirect. The maximum value that can be purchased is $ 10,000 in TreasuryDirect and $ 5,000 with IRS tax refund. Their current rates are at 3.06% and this will remain all through to the end of April 2012 (Lasser, 2011). Savings Notes These are also referred to as freedom shares. They were issued at a discount of 81 percent of the face amount which could vary. The savings notes were mainly introduced to encourage people in United States to save by investing. This began in 1967 whereby they came alongside the E series savings bonds. They are redeemable at anywhere any time at the most recent semiannual accrual value. The original maturity for this was four and half years however there are optional extensions of two 10-year periods (Thau, 2001). The savings notes

Gps systems in todays society Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Gps systems in todays society - Research Paper Example 4). The space segment is made up of at least 24 GPS satellites that orbit the earth twice a day in a specific pattern. The control segment is the segment responsible for constantly monitoring from the ground, the satellite’s movements, signals and orbital configuration. The user segment consists of the GPS receiver which collects and processes signals from the GPS satellites which then determines and computes location, velocity and time. Three aspects were emphasized during the development of the GPS3 (Zogg 9). First, it must assist its users in determining position, speed, and time, whether an object is in motion or at rest. Second, irrespective of the weather, it must have a continuous global, 3-dimensional positioning capability with a high degree of accuracy. And lastly, even ordinary people must be able to use it. This last aspect is the reason why GPS is now widely used not only in military operations but also in our everyday lives. GPS has a plethora of uses in our society today. Its applications can be found in various industries. Foremost among its uses is the tracking of people, commodities and the different modes of transportation. GPS receivers are used for determining position, speed and time. It can be used everywhere except in areas where receiving a signal is impossible such as innermost parts of buildings, caves, underwater or other subterranean locations. In the military which was originally the intended purpose of the GPS, aircrafts, ships, submarines and tanks use it for basic navigation, target designation, close air support and weapon technology4 (Garmin Ltd. 6). In aviation, GPS is very useful because pilots use it for navigation and determining airport approaches. In space, GPS helps track and control satellites in orbit. Space shuttles also use the same technology. At sea, the most typical use of GPS is for navigation by recreational

Gentrification Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Gentrification - Essay Example What is Gentrification? Through researching this phenomenon, one discovers that there is no finite definition of the term. The term was coined in 1964 by sociologist Ruth Glass when she used examples of London Districts as illustrations to define what the term meant: One by one, many of the working quarters of London have been invaded by the middle-class upper and lower. Shabby modest mews and cottages-two rooms up an two rooms down-have taken over, when their leases have expired, and become elegant, expensive residences [†¦] once this process of gentrification starts in a district it goes on rapidly until all or most of the working class occupiers are displaced and the whole social character is changed. In the Encyclopedia of Housing it is defined as â€Å"the process by which central urban neighborhoods that have undergone disinvestments and economic decline experience a reversal, reinvestments, and the in-migration of relatively well off, middle and upper middle class popula tion† (Smith) Then Hammel and Wyly difine gentrification as â€Å"the replacement of low-income, inner-city working class residents by middle-or upper –class households, either through the market for existing housing or demolition to make way for new up-scale housing construction: (Hammel) And the United States Department of Housing and Urban development defines gentrification as â€Å"the process by which a neighborhood occupied by low-income households undergo revitalization or reinvestment through the arrival of upper-income households†.... predominant common thread and motivation point to, (3) influx or the relatively affluent or gentry and (4) an increase in investment. Friedmann who lays down a hypothetical framework on which to build a study of global cities, used one of his components to his seven part theory the emergence of a bifurcated (to divide into two branches) service industry in major cities, which is composed of on the one hand, a high percentage of professionals specialized in control functions and, on the other, a vast army of low-skilled workers engaged inpersonal services[that] cater to the privileged classes for those whose sake the city primarily exists. (Friedmann) In Amsterdam social cleansing seems to be the appropriate name for deliberate policies aimed at removing a section of the population-a criminal underclass, or those with low-incomes. It is often inspired by a belief that a city (and its administration) has failed, if such people live there. The emergence of active policies to change the population mix in an entire city is related to the neoliberal idea that cities are a sort of business, competing in a global market of cities, and that successful cities have successful inhabitants. Unlike gentrification, Social cleansing is always government initiated. However, in Amsterdam, it is difficult to discern the difference between the two in either stated purpose or actual implementation. Low income bans in Amsterdam is a legal instrument. The first phase of gentrification in Amsterdam is where art and culture areprominent-the first art gallery in a working class neighborhood is a classic sign of

Notes On Making A Tricopter Essay Example for Free

Notes On Making A Tricopter Essay Making a Quad- or Tri-copter is a project I’ve been tempted by for a long time. Ever since I got an RC heli, which I’ve since abandoned. The Heli was too hard to fly, and there wasn’t much motivation to persevere — having learned, all you can really do is aerobatics, which I’m not very interested in. A quad, on the other hand, is easier to fly and much more flexible: I could add cameras, sensors, telemetry, code it to do interesting things, etc. And lots of people have done this so it’s an easy thing to Google about. The tricopter seems the most appealing so far – interesting build, nice balance of stability and maneuverability. Interesting things so far: * Design considerations for beginners * Calculator to check if a given set of components will work together (looks awesome) * Arducopter – if I don’t have success coding an Arduino myself, or it’s too hard, or I want the features without all that work * UK-based Arducopter store * Useful FAQ on frame design, and some other bits * Video on building a tri from scratch * Complete build guide from the rcexplorer.se dude (v2.5) * And the next version along, v2.6 HV * Newbie FPV guide * Open-source plans for the RCExplorer frame * Discussion on various FC boards * The KK board is also an ATmega – I did not realise this. Lots of resources here. * A lot of tips and links on this RCGroups thread * Massive flight controller feature comparison table (possibly not up to date) * RCExplorer’s tricopter setup guide * Forum for UK-based FPVers * FPV advice/support/campaign group * Credible explanation of the CAA regulations covering model aircraft (with and without FPV) in the UK * Another explanation of frequencies and their legality, also from FPVUK * Good-looking set of videos about FPV theory and builds * Company selling uk-legal FPV gear, and it sounds like they’re helpful too I’ll update this post with more stuff. Design notes Frame I thought there would be maths (shuddder) about frame size vs prop size vs motor power and all that sort of thing, but this FAQ says the main considerations are maneuverability and stability. A smaller frame is more nimble but less stable, and vice versa. Since I’m a beginner, a larger, more stable frame seems like a good idea. It also seems plausible that it’s a better platform to develop from: I could perhaps add bigger motors/props to increase lift, for example, without having to change the frame. (Guess). The RCExplorer v2.6 arms are 480mm, which seems a good place to start. I think I’ll also use the frame design from RCExplorer as it’s well proven and designs are available. Some tips from this thread: * Prop wash over the arms causes vibration. Try to mount the props at least as far above the arms as the prop radius. * ESCs (unsurprisingly) work better if kept cool. Perhaps worth mounting them in the prop wash? Props Not much headway on this yet. RCExplorer (again!) recommends the smallest props you can as smaller props are lighter and have less air resistance, making them more stable. Trial and error seems a sensible approach here, as long as the prop doesn’t overwork the motor. Control board From this table, Arducopter seems both very functional and reasonably priced. Lots of resources for it too. Beyond (advanced) features (that I won’t need for ages, if ever), I still don’t have a clear idea what the pros and cons of the various boards are, though. For example, noob-friendliness, ease of repairs. The KK board does have a screen to guide you through the process, which might make it preferable to start with. And it’s cheap, so easy enough to replace with something more feature-rich later. ESCs There are so many important bits of information in the big tips thread that it’s not really worth reproducing them here. Just go read it. Use NiMH mode even for a LiPo battery, because the low-voltage mode engaging (to protect the LiPo) causes flips (eek). Motors RCExplorer uses these for the v2.5. Mentioned elsewhere too. Is 750kV enough? What are the considerations? Batteries TBC Video Not planning to do this immediately, but from reading so far, there is stuff worth noting. Apparently, the only legal frequencies for airborne video tx in the UK are 2.4 and 5.8GHz. These are very short wavelengths with poor penetration and are limited to 10mw and 25mw respectively. This sounds totally dreadful, but people do claim that they can get decent range (up to a mile) with a high-gain antenna. A significant number of other people are (unsurprisingly) completely flouting the law. It does seem a bit OTT. Obtaining an amateur radio licence makes no difference as they do not include airborne transmissions (out of date but probably still accurate: Amateur Radio (Foundation) Licence Terms, Provisions and Limitations Booklet BR68/F, para 2(6)). Possible exception: higher power 5.8GHz transmitters at 250mw rather than 25mw. It seems that to stay legal you can only use 2.4GHz or 5.8GHz. My transmitter is 2.4GHz and I don’t want to replace that with an (obsolete) 35MHz transmitter. So it seems it’s 5.8GHz or bust. Telemetry, sensors I’ll think about these later. Transmission of telemetry data is permitted on 433.05 to 434.79MHz up to 10mw.

Stricter Gun Control Laws

Stricter Gun Control Laws Gun control in the United States has been a controversial issue over past years, especially in light of the recent events of the Sandy Hook Elementary school shootings. Gun control is the regulation of the selling, owning, and use of guns. Americans have many reasons for owning and using fire arms, both positive and negative. The second Amendment of the Constitution gives the rights to American citizens to keep and bear arms. On the positive side of the issue for stricter gun control laws in the United States, there are many reasons how we can keep a safer environment inside our country. Stricter gun control laws will decrease the overall number of accidental shootings. It will also make it more difficult for criminals to obtain guns. Semi-automatic weapons, which are the leading types of guns used in mass shootings could be eliminated from being able to be purchased and will ultimately lower the number of overall deaths if a shooting were to occur. Creating stricter gun control laws could also hurt or have no effect on the number of overall shooting in the United States. People who want guns and are unable to obtain them legally, can purchase them through the black market. Most people simply want guns for their own protection and self-defense. GUNS PROTECT PEOPLE The majority of gun owners admit that owning a gun gives them a feeling of assurance and security. The ownership of a gun adds to the safety of the owner especially during dangerous incidents like, burglary, attempted murder, and other crime alike. Ownership of a gun could satisfy the second level of the hierarchy of needs as dictated by the widely known Maslows Hierarchy of needs. This fact could prove that the ownership of a gun is necessary to live comfortably. Prohibition is not the best solution. Banning guns will not kill gun culture. The use of guns will not disappear or make them any less dangerous. It could even promote illegal purchases of guns. As stated in the previous paragraph, safety is a need, and people are most likely to do whatever it takes to assure it for themselves and for their families. Citizens are not only capable but also have the right to protect themselves, their families, and their property. If owning a gun is the easy, then why not? Many people also need guns for other reasons. Farmers need fire arms to protect their fields and livestock from wild animals. If the banning of guns will push through, the livelihood of these people will be greatly affected. The least that could happen is them resorting to technologies that are way above their budget to compensate for the security provided to them by the confiscated guns. If the banning of guns is after the welfare of the people, these realities are not to be disregarded and should be considered. Though these people are a minority compared to the whole population, their voices should be treated as those of the majority. Shooting is a major sport enjoyed by many law-abiding citizens in the United States. Just like other sports, shooting is recreational; it promotes discipline, and camaraderie and healthy relationships among its enthusiasts and practitioners. There are even more sports that are considered to cause more injuries compared to shooting sports. Statistically, the sport with most injuries reported is basketball; shooting injuries are less likely to happen because the guns are not pointed at humans but to inanimate, lifeless targets. Practicing shooting for hurting people is not the intention of the sport. Shooters shoot objects to improve accuracy and precision in shooting lifeless objects, and lifeless objects alone. Sportsmen have the right to continue their chosen leisure activity. Also, spending on guns and ancillary equipment commissions large sums of income into the economy. Law-abiding citizens are worthy of the right to protect their families in their own homes. Even with the banning of guns, criminals will still have access to firearms sold in the black market. In fact, most guns used in heists and organized crimes are guns do not have legal papers, sold in the black market. Thus, the banning of guns will put the potential victims into a disadvantage. Law abiders will not even think of buying from the black market. Criminals do not think this way. They buy from the black market because it makes them harder to track down. Would-be rapists and armed burglars will think twice before attempting to break into a house where owners may keep firearms. Some incidents of shooting are often prevented when both parties owning guns. Though the guns assure self defense, it does not actually help you dodge bullets. It is only an advantage when, the other party is in no possession of a gun. Thus, when an armed attacker is aware of you owning a gun, he would begin to have second thoughts about using his gun because of the possibility of being shot back. Therefore, this fear of being shot back neutralizes the attackers urge to shoot the victim. Instead of a life lost, a life is spared. GUNS ARE DANGEROUS Gun control has been a very controversial and heated topic worldwide. Guns are the reason why the crime rate is still high and it will remain or increase if there are no actions that will be taken to lessen the illegal use of firearms. The main function of a gun, like any other weapon, is to kill. Guns were invented to be used in war. Though guns have the potential to protect its owner from harm, the fact that someone from the other party will be, or should be, consequently harmed does not justify its purpose. Though the understanding of this idea will vary among different levels of morality and beliefs, the fact of someone getting hurt, a bad person or a good person, should not be disregarded. The use of guns to promote peace will be ineffective without its capacity to harm others. Though guns are not the only weapons, they are certainly more effective in taking away lives. The death rate when a gun is used is much higher than when knives or other weapons are used during an attack. Household brutality assaults involving guns are twelve times more likely to bring about fatalities than those without guns. These facts are nothing new. Shooters generally shoot to kill, and, even if they shoot to maim or warn, the unpredictable trajectory of bullets can still kill. The more instruments of demise and harm we remove from our social norms, the more secure we will be. The law has already made appropriate penalties for crimes like theft; burglary should not be punished by vigilante killings. Nothing is worthy enough to pay for a human life. Even crimes of murder are not punishable by death, the legal sanctions for these crimes should be treated as seriously, unbiased, like legally owning a gun which is difficult to observe because most killings involving guns are initiated when the shooter is in a high emotional state, not in his/her rational mind. In 2005, 75 reported cases of children 14 and below died from accidental firearm-related injuries; most children of this group have ages ranging from 10-14 years old. The majority of unintentional gun-related deaths among children take place in or around the household; 5 out of 10 cases occur at the victims home while 4 out of ten cases happens at a friend or relatives house . Keeping firearms at home for protection often leads to accidental deaths. Common cases for gun shootouts is that people possessing it have mental illness, goes out and shoot people. People with mental illnesses have no right to possess firearms but the problem is that sellers of these guns do not know if the buyer is mentally ill until they go out and shoot people. The government, though they did something about this case. The issue on the mentally ill people who can easily possess guns is on heat especially on the recent case of shooting in the United States. People with tendency towards violence and those with histories of mental illness are not allowed to be able to obtain firearms in the United States. But experts, as what they call themselves, says that the laws pertaining to the possession of firearms is only applicable to people who have been considered by the authorities to be unsafe. The government mandates that people should be evaluated before the issuance of firearms to them. Background checks and interviews are supposed to be done before a per son can acquire any firearms. The problem is that the government has insufficient funds to sustain the process. Thus, the government resorted to just allow the people who would like to acquire firearms after conducting simple tests. CONCULSION My opinion on this matter is simple and goes along with the saying guns dont kill people, people kill people. Although gun laws today are becoming stricter, individuals who want to kill or harm others will still be able to do so. Regardless of how hard it is to obtain a firearm, a person can still find other ways to harm others, even without guns. The issue whether or not semi-automatic weapons should be allowed to be sold is something that is understandable and can have a positive effect. These types of weapons should certainly not be used for hunting, and have no reason to be on the streets of our country. The difference in the number of people one can harm or kill is drastically different and can make an overall difference in the number of deaths each year. After the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, several people began to talk about buying a gun before stricter laws came into effect. My own father did just that. My mother has always been against having a gun inside her home until recently. She had realized that it is better safe than sorry. My dad went and applied for a permit to own a gun and is currently in the process of a background check. He plans to keep it locked up, and used only if necessary. I personally feel safer, and better about the well-being of my parents if they have a gun for protection inside their home. There are countless numbers of robberies and attacks that occur every day in our country. Owning a weapon for the pure safety of yourself and your family is a valid reason in my mind. The fundamental goal of the laws pertaining to owning a gun is to keep the firearms to those people that are most likely to do violent actions and those that are mentally challenged. But then there is no existing effective system that can prevent these people to legally getting a gun. The government has to do something about the stricter implementation of the laws pertaining to the people who are mentally ill and wishes to get a gun. Access to mental health plays a vital role in this case thus even the government should look over its beneficiary requirements and funding. The required background checks and mental health evaluations should be stricter and more informative so that proper data and evidence can be evaluated properly and it could be a great help to lessen violence in the United States.

Smoking Cigarettes :: Argumentative Persuasive Example Essays

Throughout the book, the conflict between the mothers, their Chinese tradition, and language and the daughters, their American tradition, and language are evident. Suyuan and Jing-Mei Woo are mother and daughter, respectively, who are characters that illustrate the conflict between the two cultures. In the beginning of the story, the mothers who play Mahjong tell Jing-Mei to see her long lost sisters and tell them of their mother. Jing-Mei replies, "What will I say? What can I tell them about my mother? I don't know anything. She was my mother. (p31)" Then it occurs to Jing-Mei that "they are frightened" because in her they see "their own daughters, just as ignorant, just as unmindful of all the truths and hopes they have brought to America. (p31)" In these quotes, Jing-Mei perceives the gap that occurs between the mothers and daughters. This gap between each mother and daughter is described in later chapters. Jing-Mei Woo, who is called June in America, represents her mother's hopes and dreams. Her mother's name, Suyuan, meaning, "long cherished wish" speaks of this hope for Jing-Mei, whose name means "the pure younger sister (p322-3)". In the beginning, June is excited and dreams of what she will become. "In all my imaginings, I was filled with a sense that I would soon become perfect. My mother and father would adore me. I would be beyond reproach. I would never feel the need to sulk for anything (p. 143)." Her mother pushes June into many areas- academics, dance, and the piano. After failing to excel at any of the areas presented to her, she feels like a failure. She sees all the hopes her mother has for June as expectations. The final conflict comes when June performs a piano piece filled with mistakes at a talent show, which makes June believe that her mother is completely ashamed and disappointed with her. June looked through the crowd to her motherâ₠¬â„¢s face. She thought to herself, "...my mother’s expression was what devastated me: a quiet, blank look that said she had lost everything." (p. 143) What June did not realize, was that the real reason why her mother was upset was not because she had not lived up to her expectations. She was unhappy because June did not care about having the best for herself. She did not have high hopes or a passion to be successful at anything.

Essay Of Eukaryotic Organelles :: Biology, Health, Human Body

The mitochondria has an eggshape structure. The mitochondria consists of an inner and outer membrane. The outer membrane is what shapes the organelle to its egglike shape. The inner membrane which folds inward makes a set of "shelves" or cristae that allow the reactions of the mitochondria to take place. The more the mitochondria makes these reactions the more the inner membrane folds. This happens because the mitochondria now has more surface area connecting it to its surroundings. The processes that the mitochondria make are to break down the high energy organic molecules into smaller more useful packages. The endoplasmic reticulum is a network of tubes and channels that transport and with the help of ribosomes produce proteins. The rough endoplasmic reticulum contains ribosomes which are not present in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum. The rough endoplasmic reticulum allows the cell to produce proteins. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is used in the detoxification processes in the cell and the transitional endoplasmic reticulum is used to breakdown glycogen to glucose. The endoplasmic reticulum is versatile and grows and shrinks according to the cell's activities. Chloroplasts which are found in plant cells are used in the process of photosynthesis. They fall into the category of plastids but they are differentiated in that they contain chlorophyll. These organelles produce chemical reactions from the energy that the sun gives them. The Golgi complex's structure is made up of many flattened membranes sacs that are surrounded by tubules or vesicles. These are called the cisternae. The golgi complex accepts vesicles from the endoplasmic reticulum and modifies them for usage in the cell.

existentialism :: essays research papers

The modern conception of man is characterized, more than anything else, by individualism. Existentialism can be seen as a rigorous attempt to work out the implications of this individualism. The purpose of this lecture is to makes sense of the Existentialist conception of individuality and the answers it gives to these three questions: (1) What is human freedom? What can the absolute freedom of absolute individuals mean? (2) What is human flourishing or human happiness? What general ethic or way of life emerges when we take our individuality seriously? (3) What ought we to do? What ethics or code of action can emerge from a position that takes our individuality seriously. Although I am sure you will want to take a critical look at the assumptions from which Existentialism arises in your seminars, I will be attempting, sympathetically, to see what follows if one takes these assumptions seriously. Let's begin by seeing what it could mean to say we are absolute individuals. When you think of it, each of us is alone in the world. Only we feel our pains, our pleasures, our hopes, and our fears immediately, subjectively, from the inside. Other people only see us from the outside, objectively, and, hard as we may try, we can only see them from the outside. No one else can feel what we feel, and we cannot feel what is going on in any one else's mind. Actually, when you think of it, the only thing we ever perceive immediately and directly is ourselves and the images and experiences in our mind. When we look at another person or object, we don't see it directly as it is; we see it only as it is represented in our own experience. When you feel the seat under your rear-end, do you really feel the seat itself or do you merely feel the sensations transmitted to you by nerve endings in your posterior?. When you look at the person next to you (contemplating how their rear-end feels), do you really see them as they are on the inside or feel what they feel?

To What Extent Has the Human Rights Act 1998

European Convention on Human Rights The European Convention on Human Rights is a binding international agreement that protects the political and fundamental civil rights of human beings and their basic freedoms. The Convention was drafted in 1950 by the Council of Europe, and came into force on the 3rd of September 1953. In 1951, the ECHR was not yet part of the British Legal System. In 1997, the Labour government introduced a bill into Parliament to incorporate the ECHR – creating The Human Rights Bill. It was only in November 1998 that the ECHR became part of British law.This entitled each person to the right of individual petition to the British courts, should they feel that any right in the Convention had been violated. Unlike the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (adopted by the UN in 1948), the ECHR has been adopted by the Council of Europe and has been sanctioned by many countries. Articles within the European Convention on Human Rights The ECHR is divided into thre e sections, consisting of fifty-nine articles – and a further thirteen protocols (European Court of Human Rights – echr. coe. int website). Below I have highlighted some articles from the three sections.Section 1 is concerned with the â€Å"Rights and Freedoms† of humans. This includes article 2 – the right to life – which is to be protected by law, binding all the signatory countries to ensure that every human will not be â€Å"deprived of his life intentionally† and to defend each individual from unlawful violence. Section 1 also enforces the prohibition of such acts including torture, slavery and forced labour. Article 5 emphasizes the right of freedom and security of every individual (The European Convention on Human Rights (Jacobs and White), 2002).Article 6 states the right to a fair trial; even those charged with a criminal offence are entitled to â€Å"minimum rights†. Article 8 focuses on the right of privacy and family respe ct of every person. Article 9 addresses each individual’s right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. With this right, we all have the freedom to change our religion or beliefs. Which leads to article 10, entitling each individual to freedom of expression. Article 12 gives the right to both men and women of â€Å"marriageable age† to have the right to marry and have a family.They must however follow the national laws that govern the exercise of this right. Article 18 ensures that these rules of Convention can only be used for the specific purpose as defined in all articles. Section 2 (the largest section of the ECHR) focuses entirely on the European Court of Human Rights. This includes rules regarding the number of judges, the criteria for office, the competence of both single judges and of committees, and the jurisdiction of the Court. Section 3 encompasses all miscellaneous provisions (article 52 to 59). Human Rights Act 1998The Human Rights Act 1998 (which is also known as the Act or HRA) is an act of parliament that was instated in 1998, on the 9th of November – receiving Royal concurrence. However it was two years later, on the 2nd of October in 2000 that the act actually came into force. The major purpose of the act was to provide a solution to the breach of human rights issues in the UK, without the need of going to Strasbourg’s European Court of Human Rights. It works as a mechanism to implement the European Convention on Human Rights, which was enforced in other European countries well before the United Kingdom.HRA greatly facilitates the implementation of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) in the UK, in order to provide rights to the citizens of the country. Sections of the Human Rights Act 1998 There are 22 sections that form the Human Rights Act 1998. Below I have highlighted sections 1 to 4. Section 1 of HRA focuses on the enforcement of rights (that are given in the ECHR) in the judiciary and law system of the UK. Section 2 focuses on the interpretation of the Human Rights Act. Under section 2 of HRA the UK courts are directed to take the decision of European courts when solving a case of human right violation.It must be noted that the UK courts are not obliged to follow European decision, however it is mandatory for them to follow the HRA in regards to human rights issues. Section 3 focuses on the interpretation of the laws, and requires courts to wholly understand the primary and subordinate legislations of the ECHR; the focus on interpretation is to ensure compatibility with the ECHR. Under this section the courts are required to read in, read out and read down to fully interpret the statutory clauses in the act (Keenan & Riches’ Business Law, 2011) . Section 4 of the HRA describes the courts permission to declare an issue ‘incompatible’.If a law cannot be interpreted to make it comply with human rights, incompatibility is declared. Judges do not have the right to overturn primary legislation in the UK if they find that it is not compatible with human rights, however they are able to overturn secondary legislation. The Protection of Human Rights Act 1998 The Act also hinders any public authorities (including the entire public sector – even courts) of performing actions that violate the Conventions rights. Should any public authority violate any right of an individual, the court’s decision will be in favor of the claimant.However, violation of human rights from a member of a public authority can be justified if the violation occurred under certain circumstances or as a result of the mandatory obligations imposed by the Westminster primary legislation. The court retains the right to declare any action incompatible if it cannot be proved under the HRA 1998. Implementation of the ECHR The United Kingdom has ratified the European Convention on Human Rights. However, its effectiveness depends mainly on the extent of its i mplementation by the courts. This is where the Human Rights Act comes in.The key objective of the HRA is to achieve maximum compatibility with the European Convention on Human Rights; giving further effect to the ECHR. The Human Rights Act came into force on the 2nd of October 2000. Since then, it has enforced the Convention’s rights into the UK courts. Looking at how the HRA is set out (individual sections) I believe that the HRA has implemented the ECHR to a great extent. My reasoning for this lies predominantly in Section 3 of the HRA, where interpretation of the laws requires courts to thoroughly comprehend the legislations in the ECHR and to fully interpret the statutory clauses.This ensures that the laws are well understood, which is crucial when dealing with human rights. Sections 2 and 4 also allow the judges to retain sufficient control in order to create a more effective and independent legal system (without the need to constantly go back to Strasbourg’s Euro pean Court of Human Rights). This has made the process much quicker and more effective; it has also given UK citizens a clear legal statement of their basic rights and fundamental freedoms.

Providing Care for Looked after Children

At the end of March 2011, there were 65,520 looked-after children and young people in England and therefore many professionals are needed to keep up a good quality of care for every single child who is to be looked after. The health and wellbeing of looked-after children and young people (their physical health, social, educational and emotional wellbeing), comes from their quality of life and/or care.Some looked-after children and young people have positive experiences in the care system and gain good emotional and physical health, do well in their education and go on to have good jobs and careers but the start to this is from the arrangements made in order to receive good quality care. It is the government or council’s responsibility to decide who looks after the child, where they will live and also how they are educated.It is important when choosing a carer for a child that they will perhaps have things in common or are at least not the complete opposites to each other as th at may lead to bad quality care and a low emotional well-being. If given the responsibility of looking after a child it is officially that carer’s job to provide a home for the child and protect and maintain the child. They are also responsible for disciplining the child, choosing and providing for the child’s education, agreeing to the child’s medical treatment, naming the child and agreeing to any change of name looking after the child’s property.Parents have to make sure that the child is supported financially. At the start of care proceedings, the council asks the family court to make a temporary court order, called an ‘interim care order’. If the court agrees, the council can take the child into care on a temporary basis. This can sometimes be for up to 8 weeks at first. After that, it can be renewed every 28 days. It can take up to a year for a court to decide what should happen to the child.Sometimes it can take even longer than this. During this time a social worker and other people will be trying to understand the reasons why the child may be at risk. They will also look at what can be done to keep them safe. They will talk to the parents and the child regularly. They may talk to other family members or friends about looking after the child if they can’t safely live at home. The parents might also get support and in many occasion the parent is often seen to first.The social worker will write a report for the court. These will outline what they think should happen to the child. Once all the information has been gathered, there will be a court hearing. The judge will look at the reports, and listen to everyone involved in the case, including the child, the parents, solicitors representing parents and children and the council social worker. The child will go back home if the judge decides that they’re safe. If not, the council will find them a new home.That may be with other members of their family, friends, a new family or children’s home. In care proceedings, a Children’s Guardian from Cafcass represents the rights and interests of the child. They spend time getting to know the child and their family before the hearing. The Children’s Guardian appoints a solicitor for the child, advises the court about what needs to be done before it can make a decision and writes a report for the court saying what would be best for the child – including the child’s wishes and feelings.The child, once in their new home will receive a care plan which includes how they will be educated. Most of the decisions about the child’s welfare will be taken by their social worker and foster carer (or residential care worker). The parent may also be involved depending on the circumstances. The social worker is responsible for making sure said child can achieve their potential when educated.

Commercial Bank

A  commercial bank  (or  business bank) is a type of  financial institution  and  intermediary. It is a bank  that lends money and provides  transactional, savings, and money market accounts and that accepts  time deposit. Commercial banks represent the core of the credit for any national economy. In turn, the credit is the engine that put in motion the financial flows that determine growth and economic development of a nation. As a result, any efficiency in the activities of commercial banks has special implications on the entire economy.That is why we consider very useful to present an analysis of possibilities for evaluating the performance in the commercial banks. The management of every commercial bank must establish a system for assessing investment performance which suits its circumstances and needs and this evaluation must be done at consecutive intervals to ensure the achievement of the Bank's investment objectives of hand; and to know the general direction of the behaviour of investment activity in the past and therefore predictable as it in the future on the other hand.Because of the crucial role that commercial banks hold in the financial sector, this paper focuses specifically on the managing core risks is banking sector as a vital segment of the whole economy, without which no modern economy can exercise the role and own functions. ————————————————- ————————————————- Origin of the word The name  bank  derives from the  Italian  word  banco  Ã¢â‚¬Å"desk/bench†, used during the  Renaissanceera by  Florentine  bankers, who used to make their transactions above a desk covered by a green tablecloth. 2]  However, traces of banking activity can be found even in ancient times. — Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€- The role of commercial banks Commercial banks engage in the following activities: * processing of payments by way of telegraphic transfer, EFTPOS, internet banking, or other means * issuing bank drafts and bank cheques * accepting money on term deposit * lending money by overdraft, installment loan, or other means * roviding documentary and standby  letter of credit, guarantees, performance bonds, securities underwriting commitments and other forms of off balance sheet exposures * safekeeping of documents and other items in safe deposit boxes * sales, distribution or brokerage, with or without advice, of: insurance, unit trusts and similar financial products as a â€Å"financial supermarket† * cash management and treasury * merchant banking  and  private equity  financing traditionally, large commercial banks also underwrite bonds, and  make markets   in currency, interest rates, and credit-related securities, but today large commercial banks usually have an  investment bank  arm that is involved in the  mentioned activities[clarify]. ————————————————- [editTypes of loans granted by commercial banks [edit]Secured loan A  secured loan  is a loan in which the borrower pledges some asset (e. g. a car or property) as  collateral  for the loan, which then becomes a secured debt owed to the creditor who gives the loan.The debt is thus secured against the collateral — in the event that the borrower defaults, the creditor takes possession of the asset used as collateral and may sell it to regain some or all of the amount originally lent to the borrower, for example, foreclosure of a home. From the creditor's perspective this is a category of debt in which a lender has been granted a portion of the bundle of rights to specified property. If the sale of the collateral does not raise enough money to pay off the debt, the creditor can often obtain a deficiency judgment against the borrower for the remaining amount.The opposite of secured debt/loan is unsecured debt, which is not connected to any specific piece of property and instead the creditor may only satisfy the debt against the borrower rather than the borrower's collateral and the borrower. A  mortgage loan  is a very common type of debt instrument, used to purchase real estate. Under this arrangement, the money is used to purchase the property. Commercial banks, however, are given security – a  lien  on the title to the house – until the mortgage is paid off in full. If the borrower  defaults  on the loan, the bank would have the legal right to epossess the house and sell it, to recover sums owing to it. In the past, commercial banks have not been greatly interested in real estate loans and have placed on ly a relatively small percentage of assets in mortgages. As their name implies, such financial institutions secured their earning primarily from commercial and consumer loans and left the major task of home financing to others. However, due to changes in banking laws and policies, commercial banks are increasingly active in home financing. Changes in banking laws now allow commercial banks to make home mortgage loans on a more liberal basis than ever before.In acquiring mortgages on real estate, these institutions follow two main practices. First, some of the banks maintain active and well-organized departments whose primary function is to compete actively for real estate loans. In areas lacking specialized real estate financial institutions, these banks become the source for residential and farm mortgage loans. Second, the banks acquire mortgages by simply purchasing them from mortgage bankers or dealers. In addition, dealer service companies, which were originally used to obtain c ar loans for permanent lenders such as commercial banks, wanted to broaden their activity beyond their local area.In recent years, however, such companies have concentrated on acquiring mobile home loans in volume for both commercial banks and savings and loan associations. Service companies obtain these loans from retail dealers, usually on a nonrecourse basis. Almost all bank/service company agreements contain a credit insurance policy that protects the lender if the consumer defaults. [edit]Unsecured loan Unsecured loans  are monetary loans that are not secured against the borrower's assets (i. e. , no  collateral  is involved). There are small businesss unsecured loans such as credit cards and credit lines to large corporate credit lines.These may be available from financial institutions under many different guises or marketing packages: * bank  overdrafts An overdraft occurs when money is withdrawn from a bank account and the available balance goes below zero. In this s ituation the account is said to be â€Å"overdrawn†. If there is a prior agreement with the account provider for an overdraft, and the amount overdrawn is within the authorized overdraft limit, then interest is normally charged at the agreed rate. If the POSITIVE balance exceeds the agreed terms, then additional fees may be charged and higher interest rates may apply. * corporate bonds credit card  debt * credit facilities or lines of credit * personal loans What makes a bank limited liability company A corporate bond is a bond issued by a corporation. It is a bond that a corporation issues to raise money in order to expand its business. [1] The term is usually applied to longer-term debt instruments, generally with a maturity date falling at least a year after their issue date. (The term â€Å"commercial paper† is sometimes used for instruments with a shorter maturity. ) Sometimes, the term â€Å"corporate bonds† is used to include all bonds except those issu ed by governments in their own currencies.Strictly speaking, however, it only applies to those issued by corporations. The bonds of local authorities and supranational organizations do not fit in either category. [clarification needed] Corporate bonds are often listed on major exchanges (bonds there are called â€Å"listed† bonds) and ECNs like Bonds. com and MarketAxess, and the coupon (i. e. interest payment) is usually taxable. Sometimes this coupon can be zero with a high redemption value. However, despite being listed on exchanges, the vast majority of trading volume in corporate bonds in most developed markets takes place in decentralized, dealer-based, over-the-counter markets.Some corporate bonds have an embedded call option that allows the issuer to redeem the debt before its maturity date. Other bonds, known as convertible bonds, allow investors to convert the bond into equity. Corporate Credit spreads may alternatively be earned in exchange for default risk through the mechanism of Credit Default Swaps which give an unfunded synthetic exposure to similar risks on the same ‘Reference Entities'. However, owing to quite volatile CDS ‘basis' the spreads on CDS and the credit spreads on corporate bonds can be significantly different. Assets and Liabilities of Commercial Banks in the United States * Glass-Steagall Act * Mortgage constant Functions of Commercial Banks Commercial bank being the financial institution performs diverse types of functions. It satisfies the financial needs of the sectors such as agriculture, industry, trade, communication, etc. That means they play very significant role in a process of economic social needs. The functions performed by banks are changing according to change in time and recently they are becoming customer centric and widening their functions. Generally the functions of commercial banks are divided into two categories viz. rimary functions and the secondary functions. The following chart simplifi es the functions of banks. Primary Functions of Commercial Banks Commercial Banks performs various primary functions some of them are given below 1 Accepting Deposits  :  Commercial bank accepts various types of deposits from public especially from its clients. It includes saving account deposits, recurring account deposits, fixed deposits, etc. These deposits are payable after a certain time period  2 Making Advances  :  The commercial banks provide loans and advances of various forms. It includes an over draft facility, cash credit, bill discounting, etc.They also give demand and demand and term loans to all types of clients against proper security. 3 Credit creation  :It is most significant function of the commercial banks. While sanctioning a loan to a customer, a bank does not provide cash to the borrower Instead it opens a deposit account from where the borrower can withdraw. In other words while sanctioning a loan a bank automatically creates deposits. This is kno wn as a credit creation from commercial bank. Secondary Functions of Commercial Banks Along with the primary functions each commercial bank has to perform several secondary functions too.It includes many agency functions or general utility functions. The secondary functions of commercial banks can be divided into agency functions and utility functions. a) Agency Functions  : Various agency functions of commercial banks are ————————————————- 1 To collect and clear cheque, dividends and interest warrant. ————————————————- 2 To make payment of rent, insurance premium, etc. ————————————————- 3 To deal in foreign exchange transactions. ——â₠¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€- 4 To purchase and sell securities. ———————————————— 5 To act as trusty, attorney, correspondent and executor. ————————————————- 6 To accept tax proceeds and tax returns. b) General Utility Functions  : The general utility functions of the commercial banks include ————————————————- 1 To provide safety locker facility to customers. ————————————————- 2 To provide money transfer facility. ——————à ¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€- 3 To issue traveller's cheque. ————————————————- To act as referees. ————————————————- 5 To accept various bills for payment e. g phone bills, gas bills, water bills, etc. ————————————————- 6 To provide merchant banking facility. ————————————————- 7 To provide various cards such as credit cards, debit cards, Smart cards, etc. Andrievskiy Wealth Management  establishes bank accounts for onshore and offshore companies and private individuals with one of the oldest banks in Switzerland, for asset management as well as for purely commercial transfers.Andrievskiy Wealth Management doesn’t charge any commissions for bank account openings. * Time period of an account opening: 7-10 days (available by mail) * Price: free of charge * Getting keys of electronic access to the account (e-banking) * Time period of getting keys: 7 days * Registering management mandate according to your strategy: 1 day * The minimum recommended amount to open a Swiss bank account is 500 000 CHF * Receiving reports: quarterly or on request Opening a Swiss bank account in the Internet age is a very easy thing to do.The main reason for opening a Swiss bank account is for the extreme security and privacy Swiss Banks uphold thanks to Swiss laws that have been in effect for over 75 years. Contrary to popular belief, opening a Swiss bank account does not always mean that you are a tax evader, criminal, or money launderer. Swiss bank accounts can protect one’s money from prying relatives, nasty divorce settlements, lawsuits, and more. Some people just want a Swiss bank account because of the allure and mystery often attached to Swiss bank accounts, but whatever your reasons it is relatively easy to find a bank and open an account.Till the end of the last century, opening a Swiss bank account may have included visiting the bank of your choice in person, paying hundreds of dollars a year in fees, and putting down a few thousand dollars as an initial deposit. As the Internet has allowed online banking to explode, you can now open a bank account at thousands of banks around the world wherever you are. Offshore bank accounts are available to anyone with money that needs a place to be kept, Swiss banks have a lot of competition these days. Sticking to trusted and insured banks is always the way to go.While most banks today have secure online banking and security features in place, a Swiss bank account comes built in with some of the strictest privac y laws in the world. Never wire money or deposit money to any site or bank without first verifying that the bank or site is secure and licensed to do banking. Making sure deposits are insured is also a good idea and be mindful that not all banks may be insured or may have deposit insurance limits. Read reviews and ask questions about the Swiss bank you choose before providing any personal information.Once you’ve found a good Swiss bank and open an account you’ll enjoy financial privacy at a level found only in Switzerland. In 1934, the Swiss passed a law that made it a criminal offense for bankers to reveal the identity of account holders. There are two reasons why this protection was reinforced: Nazi spies: The 1931 crisis led to intensified foreign exchange control in Germany. Hitler promulgated a law whereby any German with foreign capital was to be punished by death, and the Gestapo began espionage on Swiss banks. When three Germans were put to death, the Swiss gov ernment was convinced of the necessity to reinforce bank secrecy.Pressure from the French: The 1932 Basler Handelsbank affair revealed that over 2,000 members of the French elite had accounts in Switzerland. French Leftists took advantage of this to denounce the austerity program of the government. It called for legal authority over French accounts in Switzerland, but to no avail. Unlike American law where law enforcement agencies, the judicial system, and private citizens can gain access to all kinds of financial information, under Swiss law neither the bank’s officers or the its employees are allowed to reveal any information, relative to any account to anyone, including the Swiss government.No private citizen or their legal representative can ever receive any type of information about anyone’s Swiss bank account under any set of conditions. That includes all types of legal proceedings that the Swiss classify as non-criminal behavior. The Swiss consider tax evasion a political offense. Divorce, inheritance disputes and bankruptcy cases are considered private matters, and as such the secrecy of the account is protected from any legal action to verify the presence of, or attempts to seize any assets. There are some notable exceptions.The Swiss are bound by a treaty with the US to reveal accounts connected with organized crime, drug trafficking and insider trading. But the final say on revealing the identity of the account holder is up to the Swiss authorities. 7 myths about Swiss bank accounts Swiss bank accounts are only for millionaires. This is not true. The majority of our clients are not major manufacturers or movie stars, but everyday people (business people, computer engineers, civil servants, etc. ). Swiss banks are no longer only for stars. You can open a Swiss bank account with a deposit of only 5,000 Swiss francs.We even offer accounts with no minimum balance. Money invested in Switzerland yields no interest. Nothing could be more untr ue. You can invest your money worldwide from your account in Switzerland. Swiss bankers are among the best finance managers in the world, so it comes as no surprise that they manage over 35% of offshore holdings. It’s impossible to open an account in Switzerland by correspondence This is not true. Most of the accounts that we offer can be opened by correspondence as long as you comply with our opening procedures and provide us with the necessary documents.What is more, your banking relations can be conducted by correspondence, using the telephone, Internet banking, bank transfer and credit cards. That said, we encourage our customers to meet with their banker at least once in order to get acquainted and see where their money is held. Swiss bank accounts are very expensive to maintain This is not true. Most of the accounts we open don’t charge a cent in annual fees. Even if you would like additional services such as retained correspondence or numbered banking relations, the annual fees are very reasonable.It is difficult to close a Swiss bank account On the contrary. You can close your account in Switzerland whenever you wish and without any restriction. You will pay no financial penalty. If need be, you will just have to realize your investments. Contrary to many onshore banking practices, your money is not held hostage by Swiss banks. Swiss bank accounts attract only criminals and dictators Not true! The vast majority of Swiss bank account holders are honest people who want to keep their savings in a country renowned for its stability.Swiss banks are extremely cautious regarding politicians who wish to open an account and they systematically refuse to accept any money that is of dubious origin or poorly founded. Numbered accounts are anonymous There are no anonymous accounts in Switzerland. A numbered account is an account that is identified solely by a number, rather than a name, in order to preserve the strictest confidentiality possible durin g teller transactions or bank transfers. Only the bank manager and a few select people know the identity of numbered account holders. There exist two different types Swiss bank accounts.The first is accessible to (almost) anyone. Such an account will offer credit and debit cards, checking or whatever else you may want in a bank account. Opening such an account can be done in person–some Swiss banks have branches here in the US–or by mail. Then there are the Swiss bank accounts you’ve heard about from the movies. These are the numbered accounts, the ones with minimum balances anywhere from $100,000 to $1 million. It’s known as private banking and it’s reserved for folks who have a lot of assets to manage and who demand a lot of service.The services you receive at a private bank focus on private counseling in aspects of wealth management including investments, tax concerns, and estate planning. The numbered accounts aren’t anonymous, but only a few people know the name of the account holder and Swiss law forbids them from revealing it to most anyone. They can’t acknowledge that you have an account, give out the name of a numbered account holder or reveal any information about the transactions of any account holder. Generally, numbered accounts must be opened in person, though lawyers and/or brokers can perform this service for you by mail.Your signature and identity have to be authenticated by a notary public or consul, depending on circumstances. If you’ve got the money and want to open such account, here are links to the private banking departments of some well known Swiss banks: Ask Dr. Econ July 2001 What Is the Economic Function of a Bank? Commercial banks play an important role in the financial system and the economy. As a key component of the financial system, banks allocate funds from savers to borrowers in an efficient manner. They provide specialized financial services, which reduce the cost of ob taining information about both savings and borrowing opportunities.These financial services help to make the overall economy more efficient. Imagine a World Without Banks One way to answer your question is to imagine, for a moment, a world without banking institutions, and then to ask yourself a few questions. This is not just an academic exercise; many former eastern-block nations began facing this question when they began to create financial markets and develop market-oriented banks and other financial institutions. If there were no banks†¦ * Where would you go to borrow money? * What would you do with your savings? * Would you be able to borrow (save) as much as you need, when you need t, in a form that would be convenient for you? * What risks might you face as a saver (borrower)? How Banks Work Banks operate by borrowing funds-usually by accepting deposits or by borrowing in the money markets. Banks borrow from individuals, businesses, financial institutions, and governmen ts with surplus funds (savings). They then use those deposits and borrowed funds (liabilities of the bank) to make loans or to purchase securities (assets of the bank). Banks make these loans to businesses, other financial institutions, individuals, and governments (that need the funds for investments or other purposes).Interest rates provide the price signals for borrowers, lenders, and banks. Through the process of taking deposits, making loans, and responding to interest rate signals, the banking system helps channel funds from savers to borrowers in an efficient manner. Savers range from an individual with a $1,000 certificate of deposit to a corporation with millions of dollars in temporary savings. Banks also service a wide array of borrowers, from an individual who takes a loan of $100 on a credit card to a major corporation financing a billion-dollar corporate merger.The table below provides a June 2001 snapshot of the balance sheet for the entire U. S. commercial banking in dustry. It shows that the bulk of banks' sources of funds comes from deposits – checking, savings, money market deposit accounts, and time certificates. The most common uses of these funds are to make real estate and commercial and industrial loans. Individual banks' asset and liability composition may vary widely from the industry figures, because some institutions provide specialized or limited banking services. Banks Are Only One Type of Financial Intermediary Finally, the U.S. financial services industry and financial markets are highly developed. In recent decades, many new products and services have been created, as well as new financial instruments and institutions. Today, in addition to banks, there are several other important types of financial intermediaries. These include savings institutions, credit unions, insurance companies, mutual funds, pension funds, finance companies, and real estate investment trusts (REITS). Banks' assets have grown in recent decades in a bsolute terms; however, banks have tended to lose market share to even aster growing intermediaries such as pension funds and mutual funds. Still, banks continue to account for a significant share-over 23 percent-of the assets of all financial intermediaries at the end of year 2000, as the chart below shows. The main functions of commercial banks are accepting deposits from the public and advancing them loans. However, besides these functions there are many other functions which these banks perform. All these functions can be divided under the following heads: 1. Accepting deposits 2. Giving loans 3. Overdraft 4. Discounting of Bills of Exchange . Investment of Funds 6. Agency Functions 7. Miscellaneous Functions 1. Accepting Deposits: The most important function of commercial banks is to accept deposits from the public. Various sections of society, according to their needs and economic condition, deposit their savings with the banks. For example, fixed and low income group people d eposit their savings in small amounts from the points of view of security, income and saving promotion. On the other hand, traders and businessmen deposit their savings in the banks for the convenience of payment.Therefore, keeping the needs and interests of various sections of society, banks formulate various deposit schemes. Generally, there ire three types of deposits which are as follows: (i)  Current Deposits: The depositors of such deposits can withdraw and deposit money whenever they desire. Since banks have to keep the deposited amount of such accounts in cash always, they carry either no interest or very low rate of interest. These deposits are called as Demand Deposits because these can be demanded or withdrawn by the depositors at any time they want.Such deposit accounts are highly useful for traders and big business firms because they have to make payments and accept payments many times in a day. (ii)  Fixed Deposits: These are the deposits which are deposited for a definite period of time. This period is generally not less than one year and, therefore, these are called as long term deposits. These deposits cannot be withdrawn before the expiry of the stipulated time and, therefore, these are also called as time deposits. These deposits generally carry a higher rate of interest because banks can use these deposits for a definite time without having the fear of being withdrawn. iii)  Saving Deposits: In such deposits, money upto a certain limit can be deposited and withdrawn once or twice in a week. On such deposits, the rate of interest is very less. As is evident from the name of such deposits their main objective is to mobilise small savings in the form of deposits. These deposits are generally done by salaried people and the people who have fixed and less income. 2. Giving Loans: The second important function of commercial banks is to advance loans to its customers. Banks charge interest from the borrowers and this is the main source of th eir income.Banks advance loans not only on the basis of the deposits of the public rather they also advance loans on the basis of depositing the money in the accounts of borrowers. In other words, they create loans out of deposits and deposits out of loans. This is called as credit creation by commercial banks. Modern banks give mostly secured loans for productive purposes. In other words, at the time of advancing loans, they demand proper security or collateral. Generally, the value of security or collateral is equal to the amount of loan.This is done mainly with a view to recover the loan money by selling the security in the event of non-refund of the loan. At limes, banks give loan on the basis of personal security also. Therefore, such loans are called as unsecured loan. Banks generally give following types of loans and advances: (i)  Cash Credit: In this type of credit scheme, banks advance loans to its customers on the basis of bonds, inventories and other approved securitie s. Under this scheme, banks enter into an agreement with its customers to which money can e withdrawn many times during a year. Under this set up banks open accounts of their customers and deposit the loan money. With this type of loan, credit is created. (iii)  Demand loans: These are such loans that can be recalled on demand by the banks. The entire loan amount is paid in lump sum by crediting it to the loan account of the borrower, and thus entire loan becomes chargeable to interest with immediate effect. (iv)  Short-term loan: These loans may be given as personal loans, loans to finance working capital or as priority sector advances.These are made against some security and entire loan amount is transferred to the loan account of the borrower. 3. Over-Draft: Banks advance loans to its customer’s upto a certain amount through over-drafts, if there are no deposits in the current account. For this banks demand a security from the customers and charge very high rate of int erest. 4. Discounting of Bills of Exchange: This is the most prevalent and important method of advancing loans to the traders for short-term purposes. Under this system, banks advance loans to the traders and business firms by discounting their bills.In this way, businessmen get loans on the basis of their bills of exchange before the time of their maturity. 5. Investment of Funds: The banks invest their surplus funds in three types of securities—Government securities, other approved securities and other securities. Government securities include both, central and state governments, such as treasury bills, national savings certificate etc. Other securities include securities of state associated bodies like electricity boards, housing boards, debentures of Land Development Banks units of UTI, shares of Regional Rural banks etc. 6.Agency Functions: Banks function in the form of agents and representatives of their customers. Customers give their consent for performing such functi ons. The important functions of these types are as follows: (i) Banks collect cheques, drafts, bills of exchange and dividends of the shares for their customers. (ii) Banks make payment for their clients and at times accept the bills of exchange: of their customers for which payment is made at the fixed time. (iii) Banks pay insurance premium of their customers. Besides this, they also deposit loan installments, income-tax, interest etc. s per directions. (iv) Banks purchase and sell securities, shares and debentures on behalf of their customers. (v) Banks arrange to send money from one place to another for the convenience of their customers. 7. Miscellaneous Functions: Besides the functions mentioned above, banks perform many other functions of general utility which are as follows: (i) Banks make arrangement of lockers for the safe custody of valuable assets of their customers such as gold, silver, legal documents etc. (ii) Banks give reference for their customers. iii) Banks colle ct necessary and useful statistics relating to trade and industry. (iv) For facilitating foreign trade, banks undertake to sell and purchase foreign exchange. (v) Banks advise their clients relating to investment decisions as specialist (vi) Bank does the under-writing of shares and debentures also. (vii) Banks issue letters of credit. (viii) During natural calamities, banks are highly useful in mobilizing funds and donations. (ix) Banks provide loans for consumer durables like Car, Air-conditioner, and Fridge etc.