Research Problem

Research Problem CHAPTER-2: FORMULATION OF RESEARCH PROBLEMS AND STEPS OF RESEARCH 2.1 INTRODUCTION: One of the important concepts and the back bone of research analysis is that of ‘identifying research problem(s). This is the real difficulty that commonly creates puzzle in the minds of researchers at the initial stage of research work. It is rather researchers perception or recognition of a difficulty that motivates him/her for planning a research. All the imagination that rules in the mind of a researcher while recognizing about a research, difficulty may not be necessarily a best fit and accurate problem, for which, the process and task of identification of a good research problem is considered as a ‘discovery in itself. 2.2 FORMULATION OF RESEARCH PROBLEM However, in a general meaning, a research problem may be stated as some difficulty which an individual (manager) or organization(s) or society faces and the solution on the existing difficulty is sought. A proper, systematic and thorough analysis of a research problem will definitely enable the researcher (may be social scientist in case of social science research or business executive in case of business research) to be on the right track in the process of research. As it is often said that a problem or difficulty may be defined/stated clearly treated as half solved. As much as the researcher is clear about the problem, it will be better on his/her part to smoothly carry on the entire consequential steps continuously one after the other in the process of execution of a scientific research work. 2.3 COMPONENTS OF RESEARCH PROBLEM: The components of identifying a research problem imply that of analyzing some basic necessities which are required in the process of identifying a research problem. In this process, a research goal should satisfy five basic requirements as outlined below: a. Existence of Both Researcher(s) and Respondent(s): One of the basic requirements for identifying a research problem is the presence of both the parties- the researcher(s) and the respondent (s). The respondent(s) may be an individual or a group who face some difficulty or problem. Similarly, the researcher may be an individual or a group who want to solve the existing problem of the respondent(s). The respondents may be the customers, employees, executives etc., in case of business research where as they may be common human beings in case of social science research. For example, if the respondents are not facing any difficulty, then there may not arise any question of decision-making and hence, no chance of research. b. Both Must Have Some Objectives: The second basic requirement is that, to identify a research problem, both the parties must have some objectives. The respondents want to fulfill their basic requirements of life, want to live in a healthy environment, willingness to purchase new products, to maintain standard of living and as a whole are having unlimited wants. The researchers task is to solve the existing huddles in the process of achieving the desires of the respondents i.e., satisfaction of unlimited human wants. c. Both Must Have Some Doubt While Selecting Alternatives: The respondents are having a number of alternatives with them. This creates doubts in their mind while deciding which alternative to select. Similarly, the researchers are also having few alternatives in the form of doubts. This may lead to the question of selecting the important one that can solve the existing problem in a better way. For example: Let that Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (HUL), is interested to lunching a new brand of tooth paste, with the brand name ‘PARAS in India. The RD cell of HUL is interested to know the market picture of this product and wants to predict the feasibility of the product in the market before introducing it. The researchers of HUL may identify some problem areas like: Who are the major competitor in this product category?, What are the brand image and share of different competitors?, What is the dealers reaction towards the proposed product? In which market segment (area) HUL should concentrate? etc. All these are required for the RD members for suggesting their management while deciding on whether to lunch the product or not? All the four alternatives chosen can give the answer to the question that whether or not to go for the new product. But due to some constraint the team has to make a choice between the alternatives and have to concentrate on any one or few alternatives. No w it is very difficult on the part of the researcher(s) to decide that which one will give better result to achieve at the desired objectives. Similarly, the respondents are also having number of alternatives with them while purchasing a product. d. There Must be an Environment: An activity can emerge in an environment. Like wise a research problem can exist in an environment. The environment may be social, business, political, demographic, technological or any such environments characterized by problems of any kind. 2.4 FACTORS OF PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION: Originating problems or questions constitute the initial phase in the process of problem-formulation. The process of problem finding is having some component of analysis. These components answer to the general questions like how to proceed in the process of problem identification? In this connection Gupta 2001, distinguishes three principal components in the progressive formulation of a research problem like: * What one wants to know? (The originating a general question) * Why one wants to have the particular questions answered? (the rationale behind the question) * Analyzing the questions formatted in search of their appropriateness. a. What One Wants to Know? This type of question generally represents the beginning of certain difficulties or challenges which, should be formulated in such specific terms so as to indicate where exactly the answers to the problem can be found. One type of originating question calls for discovering particular matter of common interest. Another type of originating question draws direct attention to the search for analysis and comparison between different variables in a society. Some questions may be descriptive in nature, while another group of researchers may raise the questions based on the adequacy of certain concepts, while some may be interested in analyzing observed empirical generalizations and so on. b. Why One Wants to Have the Particular Question Answered? The second phase of problem formulation is that of analyzing the vagueness or rational of the formulated question. Rationale is defined as the statement of reasons why a particular question is having some value in that circumstances. Hence, it answers to the question how the answers to the question(s) formulated will contribute to theory or/and in practice? c. Analyzing the Questions Formulated: Each question differs to that of another question in their degree of specificity. Some questions may be quite diffused where as some may be relatively specific and some questions formulated may be undifferentiated or fused. Thus the questions must be broken down into several specifying questions related to the particular aspects may be from management field or related to the areas of social science or can be any combination between the two. 2.5. NATURE OF THE PROBLEM: One of the important concerns before finalizing the problem in research is that of thoroughly scanning the nature of the identified problem(s) by the researcher. As it is already stated earlier that the researchers may face number of huddles (i.e., limited time, less budget, lack of resources etc.) in the process of research, hence, they have to compare the huddles that they are facing and the nature of problem they have identified. The following derivation will help the reader in clarifying this concept. Case-1: When the problem is narrow in scope Foe example: ‘Soft drink habits of management students of a particular institute of a specific area?. Like ‘Soft drink habits of management students of IMF, Bangalore. ‘Socio-economic condition of fruit sellers of Noida etc Solution: These cases require less time to execute, less expensive and also requires fewer resources. Case-2: When the problem identified is broad in scope For example: ‘Impact of world economic crisis on corporate employment ‘Impact of government programmes on rural development in India Solution: Take Long time, expensive and need more resources. Case-3: The problem identified cannot be measured For example: ‘Will this new information technology make society better? ‘Is it possible to shift the human being to Moon to settle there? Solutions: Difficult to estimate. Based on the accessible limitations, the researchers are advised to select their own problem. If they are having less time, less finance to execute research work etc., here it is advisable to identify a research problem which may be narrow in scope and so on. 2.6. SOURCES OF IDENTIFYING RESEARCH PROBLEM(S): Where is the problems lie? or what will be the sources of research problem? This is the question that generally puzzles the minds of researchers at the beginning stage of the research. Most of the researchers are always in search of research problems. The task of problem selection is always confusing. One can explore a research problem basically from three important sources. They are 1. Researchers own interest 2. Contemporary interests of the researcher 3. Identifying unexplored areas 1. Researchers Own Interest: Gupta (2001) pointed out that personal values play an important role along with other determinants in the selection of a topic of research. Researcher(s) with different values tend to choose different topics for investigation. It is always advisable and better to select the problem based on the own interest of the researcher itself. A researcher may select a problem for research from a given situation or circumstances or existing theory as per his/her area of interest. One may generate an idea either while reading a research paper or reading a particular subject in self interested areas. For example, while doing my Ph. D in economics, I am very much interested to explore the level of living in India. Box-2.1: Illustration of Own Interest in Research A popular way of looking at the level of living of the people in the country is to look at the state of inequality in the distribution of income and the level of poverty by analysing their consumption pattern. One of the major curiosities in the Indian economy is to define and estimate a poverty line and to determine the percentage of people below it. There are number of methods to estimate poverty line and number of indices to measure the magnitude of inequality and incidence of poverty. The scope of the study is limited to some popular and widely used traditional, modern (non-ethical) and the recently developed ethical measures of poverty and to some positive and normative measure of inequality to estimate the incidence of poverty and magnitude of inequality in the state. 2. Contemporary Interest of the Researcher: In the busy world, a researcher may come across various problems which require a specific study. Beside personal interest, social and or business environmental conditions do often shape the preference of investigators in order to identify research problem (s). Since societies and/or business environments differ in respect of the premium they place on the work in different fields, hence, these differences affect the choice of research topics. In a given socio-business condition, thousands and thousands of opportunities prevail and can be identified. It is however, researchers own conscious, matters a lot while identifying a research problem. For instance, suppose the prices of major durable goods like that of TVs, washing machines etc., are reducing day-to-day in the electronic market in India, here, the researcher may be interested to study the extent of reduce in price in different time periods, factors that are influencing the acquisition of durables, diffusion of durable goods and hence, demand for the durable goods in the market and so on. Conversion of a problem of contemporary interest into a good and interesting research topic depends largely on the skill and expertise of the researcher in that field of knowledge. 3. Gap in the Existing Theories/Principles: The third source in the process of problem identification is of analyzing the existing gap in the available theories or principles in literatures. Irrespective of rapid expansion of communication, there still exists gap between what is known and what is unknown. This identification of gap between the two is the task of the researcher while selecting a research problem. This type of research would be extending and broadening the field of knowledge in that area. The theoretical or empirical studies conducted on this basis may sometimes alter, modify or revise the existing theories or principles. Here, the researcher uses some existing theories or principles from any discipline of knowledge, may be managerial economics, macro economics, international trade, marketing management, consumer behaviours, finance etc., in the empirical analysis and suggest some modification or development of some new theories in the existing one. Box-2.2: Methods of Estimating Unit Consumer Scales: Consumption pattern of a household, in general is affected by several factors, which may be of economic and non-economic in nature. For example, age-sex distribution, marital status, occupation etc., of the members of the household might be the significant determinants of the consumption pattern in addition to income, tastes, size of the household etc. Since different types of household members have different needs and ability to consume, the actual decisions regarding expenditure by a household are considerably influenced by the consumption of the household (in terms of age-sex etc.). Several researchers1 have proposed alternative methods of estimation of unit consumer scales (to estimate the ‘specific and ‘income unit consumer weights, which constitute ‘specific and ‘income scales respectively). In the beginning, the effect of a single additional individual on the household consumption was used to investigate, by comparing group of households with identical composition except for the presence or absence of one members. This approach was soon abandoned in view of its inefficient results and various other difficulties (Kemsley, 1952). The limitations of this method are: (1) it is difficult to get sufficient number of households of the requisite type and (2) it is possible that consumption pattern of the households of this type may be different by several other factors such as income distribution, regional, climatic and social conditions etc. As a result, subsequent researchers in the field mainly considered child as a fraction of an adult. Although, this idea was originally propounded by Carrol and Bright (1875) and then by Engel (1857) but its scientific treatment was done by Sydenstricker and King (1921). Singh (1968), Singh and Nagar (1973) adopted a modified version of Prais and Houthakkers iterative procedure to estimate both the specific and income scales independently of any such restrictions and assumptions as employed in the models of Forsyth (1960), Barten (1969) and Coondoo (1973, 1975). It is obvious that the same form of the Engel function (in per capita or per unit terms) may not describe the consumption pattern with respect to all the items of consumption. Prais and Houthakker choose to work with only the semi-log and the double-log in their study. However, Singh and Nagars model need not be constrained by any particular form of the Engel function. Instead, they scan through eleven different functional forms and (viz. L, DL, SL, EX, LI, HYP, P, LP, LO, LLI and SLI) and select for the purpose of analysis the one which (i) provide initial and final critical levels of demand below and above which the consumer would not have any demand for the item in question however low or high his income may be, (ii) satisfy the Slutskys conditions and (iii) explains the maximum variation in the dependent variable. Hence, it can be said that selection of a research topic is not the end of research process rather it is only half a step forward. The selection of topics does not help the researcher to see the data are relevant to the methodology to be used, the design of the research etc. 2.7. PROCESS FOR FORMATION OF A RESEARCH PROBLEM: There are number of processes of identification of research problem. They are as follows: 1. Systematic Inquiry Through Pilot Survey: Having a few alternatives in mind, the researcher has to inquiry about the viability of each alternative through pilot survey. The process of pilot survey is nothing but is the preliminary study that the researchers are generally doing before finalization of research topic. This will help the researcher in keeping close contact with the problem to that of related requirements like-the condition of the study area, the nature of the respondents, the expected difficulty in data collection, the time frame required to complete the study, the approximate budget required etc., to solve the problem identified. Some times, it so happens that, the problem selected even though looks easy but in practice it is not so easy to execute. 2. Survey of Existing Literature: Scanning the literature is having multiple advantages to the researcher. In one hand, it helps the researcher to be familiar with the concepts already available in the literature, hence, add some new knowledge to the researcher in the required area. On the other hand, it also helps the researcher in selecting new alternatives, fixation of hypotheses, deciding objectives of study and so on from the existing literature. 3. Group Discussions: Group discussions is the process of discussing about particular topics among the persons who are associated with the work. In group discussions each person in the group shares their own existence and knowledge on a particular topic. It may help the researcher in getting the number of new ideas or knowledge to the existing source of knowledge. Again, discussions with the experts also pave a new way and new idea in the existing field. It also provides some practical knowledge which will help the researchers in the process of execution of the research work. Hence, it can be said that a problem/statement gives information concerning who, what, where and how? 2.8. CRITERIA OF A GOOD RESEARCH PROBLEM: Before finalization of the research problem, the researcher should aware of several conditions and considerations although there is no hard and first rule that all the research problem should follow all the criteria, still few criteria in the form of conditions might be listed for guidance in the selection of a topic. They are: (a) Clarity in problem -the problem selected must have perfect clarity without creating any confusion; (b) Novelty- The problem formulated should be original one so that it should not involve objectionable duplications. Originality is the basic credit point of any research; (c) Logical and Systematic- Research is guided by logic or reasoning; (d) Interesting and Importance- The problem formulated for research should be interesting for the readers and the problem should be significant enough and involve an important principle or practice; (e) Relation between Variables- The problem under study must be in a position to highlight the nature, extent and implicatio ns that exist among variables of the study; (f) Availability of adequate information on data- The research work chosen should ensure the devices and procedures etc. 2.9. DIFFICULTIES OF RESEARCH IN INDIA: India is a pluralistic country. It is not only pluralistic in religion, geographic conditions, body color, living standards etc., but also pluralistic in economic conditions. It generally, possesses characteristics of a typical Under Developed Country (UDC). Before explaining the difficulties that the researchers in India are facing, it is better to narrate some of the distinctive characteristics of the Indian economy. 1. Low Per Capita Income: Indias per capita income is very low compared to the developed countries of the world. The World Development Report 2005 categorized India as a low income category (GNI per capita of $765 or less in 2003) calculated on basis of income aggregates. Similarly, India is also placed in the category of Medium Human Development countries category with HDI value as between 0.05 to 0.799 calculated, based on the human development aggregates in the world. 2. Inequalities in Income Distribution: Another related characteristic of the Indian economy is the prevalence of gross inequalities. The World Bank, in its World Development Report, 2002, has revealed that the richest 10 per cent took 33.5 per cent of the total income and the poorest 10 per cent received only 3.5 per cent of the total income distribution in India. The larger number of people in the top group includes owners and managers in the private sector, managers of public enterprises, workers in large public and private sector enterprises, government workers at the middle levels and small family farmers in the prosperous rural areas. 3. Predominance of Agriculture: Agriculture is the mainstay of Indian economy. Agriculture and allied sectors contribute nearly 22 per cent of Gross Domestic Product of India, while about 65-70 per cent of the population is dependent on agriculture for their livelihood. 4. Low Productivity: There are wide difference in the level of productivity in different sectors between the advanced and the backward countries. The average productivity in Indian agriculture is about 40 times below the productivity level in U.S.A. and Canara. Difference in the industrial productivity between advanced and backward nations is also found to be very significant. 5. Technological Backwardness: The techniques of production employed in most of the sectors of the underdeveloped economics are either absolute or outdated. In India, for example, agriculture is still carried out with the centuries old techniques. Similarly, modernization in the industrial sector is also found to be very limited, as most of the industries still employ techniques which have been long discarded in the western countries. The transport sector still needs more improvement. 6. Deficiency in Capital: A common characteristic of all the underdeveloped countries is the deficiency in capital. The rate of capital formation in India has been depressing low. 7. Rapid Growth of Population: The rate of growth of population in underdeveloped countries is generally very high. This is primarily because of the high birth rate and low death rate. 8. Existence of Unemployed and Disguised Unemployment: Unemployment, underemployment and disguised unemployment are very common feature of the underdeveloped nation, as India. Since, population grows rapidly, labour is a prime factor and it is not possible to provide employment to all the people who are capable of work and willing to work. Consequently unemployment and underemployment is found to be very common. In the agricultural sector of the economy, disguised unemployment exists to a considerable degree. 9. Poor Quality of Human Capital: Human capital implies the quality of the countrys labour force. It is the labour which has to play a great role in building up the economy. Public expenditure on education, medical care and social services goes a long way to improve the quality of labour in the nation. Unfortunately, in India masses still continue to be illiterate and ignorant. For this reason, India is lack of skilled experts in various sectors. 10. Under-utilisation of Natural Resources: In India, still now a large proportion of its forest are laying unexploited. Similarly, the water resources of the country are again remaining unutilized. A better use of all these actual and potential resources pave the way in support of improvement in economic activity and the volume of national production, hence, level of living. The above features and remaining more, point out that India is an underdeveloped country. In the years after independence the government of India has awakened to the need of economic development of the country and has made an organized effort and initiated the process of development in the country. As a result of these efforts the pace of development has gathered momentum and the country is making a steady progress towards development. In such a situation, it is very easy on the part of a researcher to find out accurate problems/ideas/objectives of research within a short span of time. But in the process of execution of research work, he/she may face numbers of difficulties. These difficulties generally emerge as bottlenecks in the process of research in our country. Even though, the literature points out about the presence of a number of huddles that the researchers generally face, some important factors are narrated below: 1. Lack of Specialized Institutions: In India, we have lack of specialized research institutions for conducting frequent research and development in our preferred areas, particularly in management. 2. Lack of Adequate Source of Literature: Since we are lack of adequate specialized research institutions, hence, there is lack of rich library for getting adequate literature. Even though in some particular cities there exist rich libraries but still they seem to be very few in numbers in comparison to requirement. In such a situation, the researchers are spending huge amount towards maintenance expenditure before the collection of required materials. This task is expensive and also time consuming. Such facts are generally de-motivating the researchers. 3. Lack of Adequate Data: Collection of primary data is time consuming and expensive. In India, a researcher is not getting adequate data for conducting research work. There are few organizations that collect primary data (panel data) from the field periodically. But the cost of the data available for sell is very high. For example, suppose a person is interested in consumer expenditure data. The best source of data is that of NSSO unit record data. It is surprising that the data CD of 61st round consumer data costs around Rs. 18000/-, which is very expensive and is beyond the limit of the individual researcher(s). 4. Lack of Experts: We have very limited experts in different fields of research in social sciences and also in management. Since, we have limited institutions and also because of improper salary structure in comparison to developed countries, experts are getting maximum exposure in developed countries and also the working environment is also very attractive and good. This encourages most of our scholars to settle abroad. 5. Technical Bottlenecks: Technology in 21st century is changing very faster. But in India most of the research scholars are using traditional means of technology in research, which are both time consuming and requires more personal involvement. 5. Infant Industry Condition: Most of the industries in India are in Infant stage. For this reason, the industries in India are lack of their own research and development cell. Since, the execution of independent research is expensive, requires more time and human resources, thus, the industries prefer to conduct research through consultants and NGOs, rather than opening up of their own RD department. 6. Dualistic Economy: Indian industrial sector shows dualistic economic structure i.e., the presence of modern sector and the traditional sector. Similarly, small pockets of development exist in towns and metropolitan cities where the industry has grown and the trade is flourishing. On the other hand, the rural areas continue to be in the grip of backwardness, poverty and stagnation. All these create problems to the researcher to get adjusted with these dualistic natures of the economy. 7. Democratic form of Government: Since, Indian constitution is adopting the democratic form of Government; hence, we have no strict legal code and conduct for the research. By the way, it is essential for the formation of a code and conduct specifying methodologies and procedure of research and related issues to make the research process more uniform and ethical. 8. Lack of Adequate Financial Assistance to Researcher: There is lack of certain economic institutions like financial institutions and credit agencies for funding the research work. As funding is not available, it is discouraging research work. 9. Time Consuming: Research process is mostly time consuming. Since we are using all most all the traditional technique of research, hence, it requires much time. This is discouraging for further research. 2.10 LINKING RESEARCH TO PRACTICE: Olivier Serrat (2005) of Asian Development Bank, in his volume ‘Linking Research to Practice which is meant for ADBs series of knowledge solutions pointed out that research greatly exceeds its application in practice. So, he pointed out that researchers must pay greater attention to the production of their research findings in a flexible range of formats in recognition of the varied needs of readers. To him, research is about both generation and enunciation of findings. An enunciate policy is the expression of a research institutions mission and values to its staff members and to the public. It establishes a common vision and the values and measures that can be engaged to achieve accessibility to information content. An enunciate policy can be an effective and economical instrument that links research to practice but in reality it is observed that except few there may be rarely such other institute who are following this in practice. Thus, he advocated for the definite existenc e of an enunciation policy and an enunciation plan for each research agenda. Enunciation tactics will then automatically come into play. Drawing a Enunciate Plan: The most successful enunciate processes are usually designed before the start of a research agenda. It should produce a response-utilization of the research findings-on the part of users. While drawing an enunciation plan, researchers should consider at least the following seven major elements: a. Impact and Outcomes: What is the desired impact of enunciation? What outcomes does the enunciation plan aim to accomplish? In what ways the users are benefited? b. Users: Which users are most affected by the research? Which would be most interested in learning of the research findings? What are their scope and characteristics? c. Information Content: Does the information content match the users expressed informational needs? Does the comprehension level require to understand the information content that match the characteristics of the users? Is the information content reviewed through a quality control mechanism to ensure accuracy and relevance? d. Medium: What is the most effective enunciation method to reach each user group? What reso

Substance Abuse and Chemical Dependency Essay -- Drugs Social Issues D

Substance Abuse and Chemical Dependency Substance abuse is the improper use of chemicals that can alter the way one’s mind and body functions (TCC). In most cases, these chemicals would be referred to as a drug. Substance abuse can and may lead to chemical dependency or addiction. Dependence is the development of tolerance to chemicals which leads to symptoms of withdrawal. Substance abuse is a process that reflects a complicated interaction between the individual, the abused substance, and society (wikipedia.org). The leading cause of substance abuse or dependency is drug use in general. If you were to ask a drug user to tell you why they used drugs, they would most likely tell you that they use them to make themselves feel good. This could be a good explanation, for drugs act mainly on the limbic system in the center of your brain—commonly referred to as â€Å"the pleasure center.† (freevibe.com p1) Drugs are often ingested to alter one’s feelings, or to help someone cope with a mishap, but the problem is, people can’t stay â€Å"high† forever. For Instance, drug use does not change the situation. Sooner or later, a person must deal with their misfortunes. Some people use drugs to fit in or to hide their insecurities, but many do not realize that drug abuse can isolate them from their family and friends. Certain people use them because they are bored and seeking excitement, while others just want to relax or escape stress. Drug use is not a successful way to escape one’s ...

The Atomic Bomb :: essays research papers fc

The Atomic Bomb   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On July 16, 1945, the United States of America ushered the world into a new era with the successful detonation of an atomic bomb in New Mexico. That era was the nuclear age. Less than a month later, on August 6, 1945, an atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, Japan; the first use of a nuclear weapon against an enemy nation. Most of us know of these basic events, but many do not know of the complicated decisions and scientific breakthroughs that paved the way towards that fateful day in Hiroshima. Every day we are closer to having nuclear arms fall in the hands of someone who wishes to do harm with those weapons. Many question why we think the U.S. is justified in having our own atomic collection. This is why it is important to understand how the atomic bomb came about and why we decided it was necessary to use it.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  First reports of the bombs in Japan only reported that a â€Å"new type of bomb† had been used. Most had no concept of what an atom bomb was or why it was so powerful. The story of the atomic bomb opens with a series of new discoveries in physics that began near the turn of the century. The term classical is applied to the physics that scientists developed prior to that time (Cohen, 17). Much of it came from the work of the Father of Physics, the great seventeenth-century English scholar, Sir Isaac Newton. Newton was a scientific genius. Today, however, a competent student with a good high school physics course probably has a more accurate knowledge of the physical universe than Newton had. This is especially true concerning the most basic building blocks of matter, atoms. Newton, as did others before him, developed a theory about the structure of atoms. According to Newton’s theory, atoms were like marbles. They were solid and hard, but unlike marbl es, they could not be further divided. It was not until the latter half of the nineteenth century that scientific experiment began to prove otherwise. Thereafter, knowledge of atomic structure moved ahead very quickly (Cohen, 18). By the mid-1930’s, dedicated effort by British and other European scientists had revealed a new world of atomic structure, one filled with incredibly tiny systems of interacting subatomic particles containing electrons, protons, and neutrons.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In 1938, two German physicists, Otto Hahn and Fritz Strassman, were experimenting with uranium.

Emily Dickinsons Because I Could Not Stop for Death Essay -- Emily Di

Emily Dickinson's "Because I Could Not Stop for Death" In Emily Dickinson’s â€Å"Because I could not stop for Death â€Å" (448), the speaker of the poem is a woman who relates about a situation after her death. The speaker personifies death as a polite and considerate gentleman who takes her in a carriage for a romantic journey; however, at the end of this poem, she finishes her expedition realizing that she has died many years ago. The poem contains six quatrains, and does not follow any consistent rhyme scheme. Every line starts with a strong beat and ends up with a weak beat. The first and third lines in each stanza have iambic tetrameter, but the second and fourth lines do not contain any consistent meter. The feet generate a rhythm the following way. Bevcause/ Iv | could/ notV | stop/ | forv Death/ Hev kind/lyv | stopped/ | forv me/ This rhythm mimics the sound of horses’ hooves on the ground. Emily Dickinson correlates the speaker’s expression of her journey â€Å"toward Eternity-â€Å"(l. 24) with horses’ hoofed feet in her allegory (Class note). In the first stanza, she begins her journey with a refined gentleman named Death who takes her in the carriage. Even though in the first line â€Å"Because I could not stop for Death† (l. 1), the poet gives us a hint of the speaker's disappearance in the world, the speaker thinks that she is still alive. The poet chooses a special term â€Å"Immortality† (l. 4) to show that at the beginning of her journey the speaker is young and ...

In the Country of Men Course Notes Essay

Thorough and insightful understanding of the ideas, characters and themes constructed and presented in the text. Complex discussion and critical analysis of the structures, features and conventions used to conduct meaning. Complex analysis of the ways in which social, historical and/or cultural values are embodied in the text. Construction of a sophisticated interpretation, which demonstrates an understand of ways in which the text is open to different interpretation by different readers. Considered selection of significant textual evidence and highly appropriate use of relevant metalanguage. Highly expressive, fluent and coherent writing. Hisham Matar Born NY 1970 Returned to Libya as a 3yo Father a diplomat Accused of opposition of Gadhafi’s revolution In 1979 family escaped to Egypt Father kidnapped by Egyptian security in Cairo and handed over in Libya Never heard of again – 2 letters in 1996. Matar biographical details Personal experiences provide a real link to the events of the novel Father of young Libyan captured by security forces and detained for his opposition to a regime which he claims oppresses freedom This novel is NOT a biography, rather a reflection of his own experiences, particularly his relationship with his mother. Matar’s messages uses his own experiences, or memory of these, to illustrate ideas about family and, to a lesser extent oppression. Where is Libya, North of Africa, surrounded by Egypt, Sudan, Chad, Algeria. Near Turkey and Iran. The Problems with Libya Libya was often occupied during its history – Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans all colonised Libya in ancient times – archaeological sites still there 7th century Arabs introduced Islam religion and culture early 20th century Italy colonised Libya after an agreement with British and French to carve up north Africa Italian influence still strong in Libya – evidence in text – Signor II Calzoni, Faraj reads and swears in Italian Post WWII Libya divided up between French and British Given independence by them in 1951 King Idris 1 ruled 1951 onwards Oil discoveries in 1959 made Libya a very strategically important and potentially wealthy country GADDAFI 1969 Muammar el Gaddafi (Qaddafi), a military officer, headed a military coup against the autocratic King Idris – popular uprising Gaddafi known as The Leader Of The Revolution or The Guide Erratic Ruler, became more and more autocratic himself Strange man Formed in the 1980s – Amazonian guards – personal bodyguards – all women Gaddafi claimed that they would be the perfect guards because Arab gunmen would not fire at women Many claimed that the guards were an example of his eccentric showmanship and that he enjoyed being surrounded by beautiful young women He always travelled surrounded by the Guard Women were very well trained in martial arts and were apparently hand picked by Gadhafi himself They had to take a vow of chastity After he was deposed, many claimed they had been raped by him Shades of 1984 Living in Libya, under Gadhafi Most industries and media were controlled by state Most aspects of peoples lives controlled Telephones tapped, sometimes tapper intrudes on conversations ITCOM Easily identified secret police roam the streets watching people ITCOM Extensive surveillance systems – 20-30% of people worked in surveillance for the Revolutionary committees which oversaw and infiltrated every part of Libyan Society. They are able to walk into people’s homes and look for evidence of ‘disloyalty’ ITCOM Press was silenced University students silenced Public excecutions of ‘enemies’ of state, often televised ITCOM People lived in fear of being accused of crimes against the revolution Gadhafi had dissidents living overseas assassinated. His power is evident not just in Libya but also in Egypt where the Matar family escape to, but Gadhafi’s supporters in Egypt capture the father and hand him over to Gadhafi’s regime. Libya was known as a pariah state for many years – one which acts in a brutal way against its own citizens Libya often shunned by other countries because of active promotion of, and sanctuary given to, terrorist groups. Big Brother Cult of personality built around Gadhafi (Recall 1984) Referred to himself as The Guide of Libya, rather than the leader. Called himself a socialist, an Arabist, an African and a Muslim at various times in his rule. He changed according to which way the political wind was blowing and his actions were always about maintaining power. Libya Mainly a Muslim nation. People called to daily prayers from loudspeakers in mosques. Drinking and eating of prok prohibited. Often women are required to cover up in public. Like all religions, followers range from strictly observant to those who are Muslim in name only. Suleiman’s mother drinks when father is away but doesn’t go out when she drinks because alcohol is prohibited (ITCOM) Alcohol is prohibited by both the Koran and the legal system. Arranged marriages (ITCOM) blood feuds, arguments common, particularly in underdeveloped areas What ideas are these covers trying to convey? Cover 3 bleak, dark, tree represents shelter mulberry tree, tree of knowledge. Storm clouds suggest bad luck is coming etc. again the contrast  looks very western Cover 4. Plain white and blue almost white and blue collar shirts, the smart and the dumb, the rich and the poor. and the boy being in the middle almost a shadow, not 100% there. Red the colour of anti revolutionary. How are the colour font and other visual aspects used to convey meaning here? The white colour reflects the hotness of Libya and the shadow of the boy reflect that he’s not entirely there, the colour use of red is anti revolutionary, symbolic of blood. Why do you think that the author chose the title IN THE COUNTRY OF MEN for this book? Muslim way of life, women are almost lesser important, symbolizes no freedom or mention of women at all, almost symbolizes the WWI as WWI was for men only and women didn’t fight at all. What questions are raised about concepts of country, manhood and humanity? The country of men means its really a man dominant country, there is no such thing as a woman almost. Very sexist society How does the title tie in with the themes of the novel and the position of the characters as they struggle in their environment? How does the author use contrasting imagery in the opening passage to set the tone of the book? How does the image of people seeking mercy from the heat reflect the broader condition of the characters? HOLIDAY HOMEWORK How is betrayal shown to be a strong force in the lives of the characters in the country of men? In the country of men suggests that people cannot avoid brutality in a country under a dictatorship. Discuss. What forms of imprisonment are depicted in the novel? How do the characters experience and react to a lack of freedom? Through the mothers alcohol, women are imprisoned by men, in the country of men, means no voice for women. What can we infer about the lives of women in Libya during the time period represented in the story? They are in a mans world with no control. Throughout the novel, Suleiman refers to his mothers alcoholism as her ‘illness’. How accurate is this observation? Do you feel it is a reflection of Suleiman’s naivety in youth or a kind of wisdom about her actual condition? In the Country of Men Themes Narrative voice The novel is written in first person narration, largely through the eyes of 9 year old Suleiman, but with comments at times from him as an adult. Much of it is internal monologue, one of the reasons that matar created Suleiman as an only child. As he had no one to talk to he internalises his experiences, hence making for a more reflective novel. The child-like commentary allows for readers to understand things that Suleiman does not: for example, Mama’s ‘medicine’ and her ‘illness’. Names Names and naming are important in the text. Interestingly, Suleiman’s name can be traced back to Suleiman the Magnificent, the emperor of the Ottoman Empire in the sixteenth century who expanded the empire significantly and instigated enormous social and cultural developments. He is also known as â€Å"Slooma† a family name which is appropriated by Sharief and ‘habibi’ by his mother which means â€Å"my darling† â€Å"beloved† or â€Å"baby† (Innocence) SETTING The setting of Lepcis Magma is used symbolically as a fallen civilization, an example of how every society will one day decay and die. The concerns of its people have long disappeared into time. MOTIFS The heath/summer is a motif running through the novel. At times it represents hell, as Suleiman tries to avoid hell by practising running over the bridge to paradise. Other times, its glare stupefies the people and pushes them indoors, leaving only the children to jostle each other outside. The long days of summer without school also allows for Suleiman to have the freedom where he observes the adults more than usual. The sea is also another motif, the beautiful blue ocean just at the end of the road. At times Suleiman swims in it looking to be cooled and cleansed from the dirty activities he faces day-to-day. He tries to take Kareem into it to seek some solace from his grief but Kareem resists. Interestingly, it is here where he almost drowns Bahoul the beggar, exerting his power and giving into the base urges that he sees in his society SYMBOLISM The symbolism of replacing the picture of Baba with an enormous picture of the Guide in the reception room, shows loyalty to the regime and the strains on family relationships. Also showing that they have nothing to hide to show loyalty. Shows their not related to what Baba did, and the guide is now their father and father of Libya. The games played by the boys, games such as ‘My land, Your Land’ where they try to take power by gaining more land, represents the political ‘games’ of the older men around them. The squabbles and fights are also a microcosm for  the violence in the country in which they are growing up. Much is made of the power of words in this novel. In an act of resistance to the dictatorship. Nasser is seen running through Martyrs’ square after Faraj, clutching a typewriter used for producing subversive pamphlets. In another scene, Najwa and Moosa burn all Faraj’s books to save him from incrimination; however, the image of books burning is redolent of violent regimes trying to rid themselves of intellectuals who might question them. Moosa is a poet and lover of language; he is also closely tied with dissident acts. Linked to this idea, is the power of storytelling. Ironically, Najwa condemns Scheherazade for being ‘a coward who accepted slavery over death’ pg15. She berates her for not standing up to her husband, for staying to look after her children, for being thankful for her life. The irony is that Najwa appears to be restricted as Scheherazade was and she also seems to fall in love with her husband over time. To Suleiman though she is a hero; that she managed to keep telling tales without giving in to fear amazes him. Also, he is a storyteller too, as is Mama. Loyalty and Betrayal: the novel addresses the issue of loyalty. How do the characters experience loyalty and betrayal? Discuss some examples. What do you think is the main cause of some of the betrayals that occur? In chapter 5, Moosa says â€Å"its our obligation to call injustice by its name pg53† Suleiman’s mother replies â€Å"go call it by its name in your country. Here it is either silence or exile, walk by the wall or leave. Go be a hero elsewhere.† What does she mean? Who is right? How do the different characters in the novel face injustice and what are the consequences? Point of view? How does the point of view of the story affect the way that we see the injustices represented in the story? How might this be different if the narrator were an adult? Hisham Matar has much in common with Suleiman. Both left Libya where they were children, although unlike Suleiman, Matar was  accompanied by his parents. In 1990, Matar’s father was kidnapped while living in exile in Cairo and was returned to Libya, where he was tortured and imprisoned. He has not heard from him since. How does knowing the similarities between the author and protagonist affect the way you think about the novel? Role of women Do the women in Suleiman’s life have any true power, and if so, from where is it derived? How has Suleiman’s opinion of his mother changed by the time he reaches the novels closing scenes? Insight into the text What is the effect of reading about this episode in history through a child’s point of view? What clarity does it bring? In what ways do a child’s impulses muddy the truth? When the students visit Lepcis Magna, Kareem states, â€Å"Children are useless in a war.† Do you think this is true? What might the authors point of view be? What profession does Suleiman ultimately choose? Why do you think the author decided to have Suleiman choose this profession? Pg 232 He chose the profession of medicine, being a pharmacist. It reflected the influence his mother had on him with her illness and helped him to understand what it really was. Gadhafi is the most important character in the novel, despite his absence. Do you agree? The novel examines the futility of resisting oppressive power. Discuss. How does Matar use both tension and narrative point of view to engage the reader? How is tradition shown to be a powerful force in the lives of the characters in In the Country of Men? How does Matar develop a sense of time and of place in his novel? Along with confusion, pain and despair, there is a strong message of hope in Matar’s novel. To what extent do you agree? Corruption is not only isolated to the Libyan dictatorship. To what extent do you agree? In the Country of Men suggests that life demands a choice between resistance and surrender.’ Discuss In the Country of Men demonstrates that it is a man’s actions that deï ¬ ne him.’ Discuss In In the Country of Men, Matar shows more sympathy for women than for men. ’Discuss. â€Å"Why does our country long for us so savagely?† Matar’s love of his country and his fears for it permeate his novel In the Country of Men. Discuss. How does Suleiman’s view of the world change during the course of the novel? ‘Despite the horror of the political regime, this is still a novel about the power of love.’ To what extent do you agree?

Developing Negotiation Case Studies

While a great deal of excellent advice exists for producing case studies on managerially relevant topics in general, negotiation cases have distinctive aspects that merit explicit treatment.This article offers three types of tailored advice for producing cases on negotiation and related topics (such as mediation and diplomacy) that are primarily intended for classroom discussion: 1) how to decide whether a negotiation ­related case lead is worth developing; 2) how to choose the perspective and case type most suited to one’s objectives; and 3) in by far the longest part of the discussion, ten nuts and bolts suggestions for structuring and producing an excellent negotiation case study.Suppose you read about, participate in, or otherwise become aware of a negotiation that intrigues you as a possible candidate for a case study. Perhaps a student, colleague, participant in an executive program, or private client suggests such an episode. You may consider researching and writing u p the case yourself or you might supervise someone else for this purpose. Should you proceed with an investment of your scarce time and resources? If so, how?What’s the best casewriting advice you can give to a research assistant, a student (team) grappling with a course assignment to produce a case study, or someone else who is simply interested in writing up a negotiation for discussion purposes? ii Generations of experienced, even legendary, casewriters have codified guidelines for producing excellent case studies on virtually any subject. iii Yet negotiation cases often have distinctive aspects that merit explicit treatment.Over the years, I’ve found myself in many conversations trying to crystallize and convey the elements that seem to contribute to crafting superior negotiation cases. I hope that pulling these insights together and developing them a bit more systematically will be useful for others undertaking casewriting projects. A quick caveat: though casewrit ing is often properly part of a larger research program, and synergistic with other methodologies, I focus here on case studies that are mainly intended as vehicles for classroom discussion and analysis.As such, I sidestep important issues associated with systematically selecting and developing cases for well- defined research projects. For example, in the field of international relations, which thrives on case studies, the â€Å"method of structured, focused comparisons† is a research staple. iv More generally, exacting criteria exist for identifying, developing, comparing, and Draft: Developing Negotiation Case Studies. Copyright  ©2010 by James K. Sebenius. 1 contrasting case studies in order to extract valid inductive social scientific knowledge. However, I leave that set of considerations for specialists with casewriting as a component of well-defined research agendas. vi The following sections offer three types of advice for producing cases that are primarily intended for classroom discussion: 1) how to decide whether a case lead is worth developing; 2) how to choose the perspective and case type most suited to your objectives; and, 3) in the by far the longest part of the discussion, ten nuts and bolts suggestions for structuring and producing an excellent case study.One of the best ways to learn the casewriter’s craft is to study a number of truly excellent case studies, or better, to discuss such cases in a forum led by an experienced case method instructor. As such, in each of the three advice sections that follow, I’m tempted to list a number of my favorite negotiation cases as models.Since, however, these choices may be unfamiliar to many readers, and may be set in times, places, or contexts of little interest to others, I will instead offer a set of model cases, plus commentary, in an online forum in the hope that others will consult, comment, and contribute. (See online url to be provided later. ). I. Advice on developing a prospective case: a case for what? A case of what? Start by seeking clarity on your overall purpose: â€Å"a case for what? †

Gender and Racial Issues

The main character in the novel Ti-Jeanne had been trying to avoid Rudy, a man who apparently have a child with her. The relationship of both characters from the past towards the present has actually displayed the different issues that gender differences are subjected to right now. Women are likely understood by the human society as the weaker vessel in the human community. Most often than not, this fact has made it easier for the society to present women as the gender division in the society that comes only as the second important group of population in the human community.Today, media is considered to be the most influential matter in the society today. Likely, the said medium of entertainment has directly affected the ways by which people react upon the different norms in the society today including that of the issues regarding gender differences. For this study, the process by which media presents women through movies and television programs shall be discussed with clarity and ca reful understanding. Considerably, this study shall present the different impacts by which media intends to point out the differences between men and women in the society today.During the 1950’s just after the world war events, women were rather presented in a much traditional manner that made them appear accustomed to the household activities. Their roles during the war years were also presented in a much more radical approach showing that though they were considered weak, they made so much to contribute to the strength of the people who are fighting for the freedom of the human society during the said era in the human society. Ever since that particular era, the role of women in the society had been changing gradually.Likely, the said series of changes had also been shown through media presentations. Aside from that, the advancement of technology towards the modern society has actually made it possible for the presentation of the women population to be more practical and re alistic. In the novel of Hopkinson, it could be observed that the women culture has been presented in a rather developing way, whereas a supposed weak individual who is faced with all the necessary adjustments that needs to be dealt with in becoming more familiar with a new community gains power through confidence.On Racial Differences The entire reading in the said book could be separated within four particular sections that present the major focused thoughts of the authors of the said material. The said divisions are as follows: †¢ Each individual is rightfully disposed to have his or her own thinking with regards a certain issue in the society. The differences of the people make it easier for each person to see the importance of the said right towards each individual. The opinion of each person is particularly a reflection of his or her own experiences in life.†¢ As for this matter it could be observed that the election of the American society is divided in several ways that the opinions of people with regards who the rightful person to rule the nation wins the position of the most important authority who would have power over the different authorities of the nation altogether. †¢ In terms of several social issues, it could be observed that the American society have different opinions altogether that coming up with a single acceptable opinionated view about several matters is a certain sort of clash of ideas between individuals.†¢ Political issues in the American society appear to be among the largest element of diversity of the said community of different individuals. The background of each person and their wants as well shapes their decision in taking part in the society’s political standing today. †¢ Aggressiveness of the people towards having the best kind of government available is something that needs to be strongly identified by each individual who are taking part in the electoral practices at present.Constantly consid ering the differences of the individuals and giving them the rightful attention that they are due regardless of their race or their color may not be that easy to apply through this particular process of equalizing the social system. This is especially true when it comes to understanding the situation in a normalizing manner. Actual application of being fair to everyone regardless of their racial division is not an easy task to accomplish.Through the attention given to the needs of everyone else in the population of people concerned in the situation, it could be noted that the main aim of the system is to make equalizing programs work for serving the best values of the individuals concerned (Wyle, 2003). People are likely to be divided because of their cultural beliefs. This likely involves the importance of the major consideration given to the cultural diversity of each individual from the others who are present in a certain institution.Seeing them as persons having the same level o f needs of respect and same demands of attention shall equip the administrational authorities with the rightful skill and capability of handling such cases of differences in terms of race and culture. It should then be realized that deeply understanding the situation through narrowing the elements of effect through identification of human behavior as individuals and not as people divided by race, is the main key towards the successful application of the said proposed program or event.(Wyle, 12) From this outlined summary, it could be observed that the book points out that the diversity of the people today in the American society makes the political status of the said nation rather aggressive and progressive in several important ways. Further Implications of the Reading The society is mainly composed of many different individuals each having their own characteristics, social background, and cultural affinity producing diversity among the people.The unique personal characteristics of each individual radiates in the formation and development of the society as the former manifests as the foundation of the latter. As people compose the society, their unique and personal characteristics affect the formation and development of it including the differences in most major social factors and concepts. Included in this is the issue of race and social ethnicity. Race is mainly defined as the social characteristics localized within a certain social group that is shared through both biological characteristics and regional factor.Among the commonly included characteristics in this concept are the shared physical features in a certain social group such as color of skin and others. The concept of race is commonly used as the background factor in the personal identity of each individual. Ethnic background on the other hand plays more on the side of cultural affinity rather than on the physical manifestation. This concept similarly serves as the identity factor for each individua l as the ethnic background manifests as the primary link of an individual to his or her roots.On a sociological aspect, ethnic relations are formal and mandatory as associated with the birthright of an individual though the relationship of the subject with his or her ethnic background on a cultural aspect is viable wherein he or she can choose to deviate from it and affiliate him or herself to other cultural groups. Indeed, the concept of race and ethnic background serves as the anthropological factor determining the roots and family background of the involved subject.Another important factor associated with the concept of race and ethnic background is the issue of inequality and discrimination. Social groups are mainly formed through the unison and association of different unique individuals sharing a common factor, which can be of regional location, physical characteristics, blood relationship and cultural background. The people sharing a similar denominator established themselves together as a single social group with their own cultural identity.However, on a general sociological perspective, each social group based on race and ethnic background manifests to be a unique unit in the larger context. As the social race opens their group to the larger social aspect, issues of differences pertaining to their cultural issues, shared physical appearance, and anthropological factor as now brought up into the context (Rothenberg, 2001). As influenced by these issues, aspects of discrimination and social inferiority play now in the picture wherein the social groups in the general society are now segregated among the superior and inferior ones.The issue of discrimination in the sociological context is always based on a certain factor causing the said mentality or personal perspective. Commonly in the present society, physical appearance and cultural differences are the main fuels that affect the discriminative view towards the other social groups classifying the super ior from the inferior class. Indeed, the issue of race and ethnic factor becomes the basis for the segregation and discrimination in the people wherein the established inferior unit becomes oppressed compared by the superior class.This often manifests in the course of the development of each social groups in several aspects. An example of this concept is the racial discrimination that is dominant in the American society segregating the groups of the whites and the blacks wherein the former are considered superior than the later (Rothenberg, 2001). This discrimination often manifests in the several important social institutions such as the employment sector wherein most blacks are not qualified to be hired for higher executive positions because of their racial background.Another is the racial harassment that the blacks are receiving from most white factions who wants to further undermine and take advantage of the inferiority of the black people. However, this issue of discrimination is not based of the common connoted definition of the concept of race, which is through skin color. Instead, the real significant roots of the discriminative behavior within this society manifests to be from the anthropological and historical relationship of the two social groups namely the period of the slavery of the blacks and the social impression this has left on the mentality of the people.Indeed, the blacks were once victim of the physical oppression of slavery from the white people and this historical period has left a cultural and sociological scar on the impression of their race (Rothenberg, 2001). As these people are victimized and oppressed, their once status in the society still influence the perspective of the people in the present which comes in conflict with the pride and status of the other social groups.Because they were once slaves, other social groups do not want to be mixed and be on the same level with the black people thus, their cultural perspective develops to undermine the capacity and capabilities of the black people to hinder their equal social ascension (Rothenberg, 2001). This concept is widely prevailing in the present and most oppressed social minorities are still fighting their way against this discriminative behavior. Other oppressed social groups are those who are foreign to the land of the dominant race wherein the former were viewed to be inferior compare to the later.Victims of these views are the Hispanics, Irish, and other immigrants and refugees in the American society (Rothenberg, 2001). The dominant race allowed the intrusion of the foreign social group however, a demarcation line must still be implemented wherein the dominant will stay to be the superior in most social institutions and fields. This in part, manifested to have an oppressive effect on the minority faction wherein the superior class hinders their development and integration in the general society.Indeed, the issue of racial discrimination is not mainly attributed to the racial, ethnic and social differences of the involved parties but on the unresolved conflicts and issues between the involved social groups. Indeed, racial perception is not on the significance of the color of skin or cultural practice but on the personal perception and view of the people looking into the context. Indeed, the issue of racial discrimination is laid not oniological and sociological inferiority complex but instead on the concept regarding the social development between the two social groups.Because of this, the issue of racial discrimination indeed becomes illogical and unethical as something occurred in the past is not applicable on the present context. Instead, the discriminated social groups must be entitled to social affirmative actions as part of the assistance to the development and reintegration of the oppressed social groups. Instead of discriminating the oppressed social groups, social minorities must instead be assisted in their integration and association in the general social context to achieve a positive social status for both the involved social groups. Overall ReactionFrom the reading that has been presented herein, it could be noted that the people of the American society are indeed much directly concerned of the ways by which their thoughts and opinions are given high regard by the major sources of power in the nation, particularly that of the political sectors of the society. Form this particular learning, it is undeniable that the truth behind the importance of diversity indeed affects the progress of the entire country as one nations standing for further progress in the future. Reference: Brown Girl in the Ring, Nalo Hopkinson, Warner Aspect, 1998, 250 pp.