Medical Genetics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

HISTORY - choose 1 of the questions to answer Essay - 7

HISTORY - pick 1 of the inquiries to reply - Essay Example It additionally terminated a round lead ball. The productive scope of the smoothbore black powder rifle was just 200 yards (Adams 1). The Mississippi Rifle, then again, which handled basically to an incredibly constrained degree, is considered as one of the main armed force rifles. The rifle fused rifling, and was perceptibly more exact than the smoothbore flintlock, however its principle trouble was that it shot a round circle making it difficult to reload and not as exact as the future Minie Ball (Adams 1). The American Civil War prompted the passing of various customary styles of fighting, the presentation of new weapons, and the beginning of new manifestations. It likewise affirmed how unarmed developments like rail, steam, just as the message, could restore the manner in which war was battled. As weapons become progressively fruitful, fighting got harsher than previously. Military conditions were in visit unsteadiness during the motorized age as new weapons were created and correspondence, just as transportation, improved. New innovation made it possible to deliver a great deal of weapons with improved force, exactness and range. New developments contained the percussion top, breech-stacking, cylindro-conodial slug, metal cartridges, assault rifles, magazine-took care of little arms, smokeless powder and the TNT explosives with clocks. Large scale manufacturing of guns, during the American Civil War, added to more reliance of innovative weapons than ordinary weapons (Adams 1). Armed force Generals, in the two sides, neglected to adjust rapidly to this change as they were familiar to the old weapons making it difficult for them to change quickly (Adams 1). At the point when the fighters utilized the black powder rifle, they just pointed in the way of the rival and discharged volleys. The warriors were familiar to the black powder rifle, which was very incorrect that they were instructed to point just to the general course of the rival. The recommendation of the volley was to assemble however much ground towards the rival as could be expected. It was, along these lines, difficult for the warriors to

Free Essay Writing Samples - How to Avoid Frauds

Free Essay Writing Samples - How to Avoid FraudsWith so many places you can get free essay writing samples, it can be difficult to know which samples are legitimate and which are not. To help make your search easier, here are a few tips to help you determine the quality of the free essay writing samples. These tips will give you a good idea about what to look for when looking at various essay writing samples.First, look for samples that are easy to follow. There is nothing worse than spending hours trying to figure out what to do and then finding out that the sample isn't clear and the directions are unclear. It is better to invest a few minutes researching an essay writing sample and be sure to review it after you read it to see if you understand the instructions.Second, look for samples that you can use. Unless you are prepared to pay to have someone else write the essay for you, it is probably best to start out with a free essay writing sample. If you find one that is too difficul t or confusing, don't waste your time.Third, if the material seems to be just an outline and not a finished article, your sample doesn't come close to being worth your time. Don't waste your time on it. If you don't understand how to take the material and make it your own, it may not be worth your time.Fourth, the last thing you want to happen is to take the material and realize that you didn't understand it enough to create your own. If this happens, you'll have wasted your time and you will not have learned anything from your free essay writing samples. You may even get discouraged and give up on writing altogether.Fifth, don't be in a hurry to sign up for any free essay writing samples. You don't want to be in a rush to get started with an essay that is only a draft. You don't want to waste your time reading and then getting frustrated when you cannot use it to complete your assignment.Sixth, don't feel pressured into using the material and trying it out with no advance notice. T he free essay writing samples you receive may seem alluring, but you don't want to go with it if you don't want to. Give yourself some time to consider it and if you need to, don't use it immediately.The use of a free essay writing sample, while not always the best way to learn the skills needed to write, is a great way to get started with a short homework assignment. Remember, with the Internet, there is a ton of information available to anyone. However, if you spend enough time looking, you should be able to find something that will inspire you and allow you to complete your assignments.

Evaluating The Theories Of Learning Essay - 1704 Words

This paper was chosen because it is significant to evaluate the theories of learning taught by very important psychologist, and the different ways they can be applied to life. It is also noteworthy to state that the techniques of these theories differ from one psychologist to another. Correspondingly, this author believes there are several ways that people can be reinforced in the process of learning. This lesson covers the definition of learning, different types of learning, and, also, discusses learning styles. Furthermore, the author will similarly focus on illustrating and describing how individuals can apply the latter in a biblical aspect. Ultimately, after reading this paper, the reader should have a better insight into the process of learning in which an individual experiences permanent, lasting changes in knowledge, behaviors, and ways of processing the world. Significant Theories of Learning Fact: Jessica was the receptionist at Unity Nursing Home. She is a very joyful and friendly person and an immense asset to the facility. Recently, she was promoted to the Admission Assistant position. She felt very excited and eager, but at the same time, she was apprehensive. Despite her worries, Jessica decided to embrace the opportunity given to her and transitioned into her new role. After just two months in her new position, her supervisor unexpectedly resigned, leaving Jessica with an incomplete training and a lot more responsibility that she bargained for. AlthoughShow MoreRelatedOnline Learning : Online Learners And Evaluating Their Learning Characteristics From The Perspective Of The Adult Learning Theory Essay1384 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction: Online learning, as a newly emerged platform to access to higher education, has become prevalent in China in the past years. Some scholars think highly of this form of education and believe that it will finally lead to a revolution of education. However, due to its short history of development, online learning platforms are not as mature as traditional universities and its learning outcomes are hard to be measured and examined. Those platforms are like a hotchpotch which consists ofRead MoreLearning Team Deliverable Week 3 1055 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿ Learning Team Deliverable-Week 3 Learning Team-C Tina Johnson, Nicola Phillips-Tate, Latrina Taylor, and Suzane Tenorio University of Phoenix HRM/552-Organizational Training and Development Sherri Johnson December 1, 2014 Learning Team Deliverable- Week 3 The assignment for this week focuses on the team’s understanding of the goals and objectives of training program development and delivery. Team C summarizes the following highlights of this week’s discussions: determining organizationalRead MoreEssay Motivational Theory/ Management1692 Words   |  7 PagesMotivational Theories Paper A Discussion used to increase performance at Ely Paper Company Our organization is experiencing a problem in that sales are lower than they have been in ten years and we need to make drastic changes in order to improve the motivation of our employees, said the CEO of one of the largest paper plate producing business in Ely, Minnesota. Mr. Ely, the CEO, knew that motivation of employees was important because of its significance as a determinant of performanceRead MoreA Taxonomy For Evaluating Business Data Visualizations1629 Words   |  7 PagesA Taxonomy for Evaluating Business Data Visualizations Submission Type: Emergent Research Forum Papers Introduction We are creating data in enormous quantities primarily because of improvements in data capture technologies. But much of this data are underused or never being used. A detailed analysis of this underused data is often impractical due to time, personnel, and other resource constraints. Data visualization techniques offer a good means of taking an immediate look at this data for exploringRead MoreCritical Review of Learning Style Essay606 Words   |  3 Pages| Module AC0696 Portfolio 1: Learning for Practice Development | Assessment 2 | | Kelly Smith | | Each of us has our own learning style. Learning is an individual process unique to each and every one and as individuals we tend to prefer different learning methods. Some people learn by listening some by reading, some by looking at diagrams and others by reading and writing. The end result of the learning process may be completely different to that of their peers. The following essayRead MoreAdult Students Learn Differently Than Children1194 Words   |  5 Pagesabsorb information, adults have so many responsibilities going on that may distract and slow down the learning process. Children are open-minded and less encumbered by life’s daily activities such as; family, friends, social obligations, and past experiences. Past experiences may impact the way an adult thinks, acts, and processes information. As adults grow older the aging process may slow down learning (elearningindustry.com). The positive thing with the adult learner is their maturity, desire andRead MoreComp uter Mediated Communication Theory Is Defined As A Type Of Human Communication1548 Words   |  7 PagesComputer-mediated communication theory is defined as a type of human communication that occurs through the use of two or more electronic devices. Human-computer interaction involves the study, planning, design, and uses of communication between people and computers. The computer serves as the network for the communication between the two individuals. There is a source of information that is sent by the sender through the network, also known as the source of noise, to the receiver to reach its destinationRead More What is Instructional Technology? Essay1138 Words   |  5 Pagesoften used interchangeably with the terms educational technology and instructional design. The Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) (1994) defines IT as the theory and practice of design, development, utilization management and evaluation of processes and resources for learning. Silber (1970) describes IT as the development . . . of instructional systems components (messages, people, materials, devices, techniques, settings) and the management of the developmentRead MoreA Discussion On Classical School And Positivist817 Words   |  4 PagesWhen the discussion of theory is brought up, many concepts have some similarities to them, yet constructed or used differently depending on the organization. This dissertation will analyze two authors perspective on what is theory? What makes up a good theory? What criteria are used by scholars to evaluate theory and research? Also an outlining on reliability and validity, and identify different measurement used in criminal justice. Last a discussion about classical school and positivist will alsoRead MoreEssay On The Coding Of The Corpus788 Words   |  4 Pagesfound that differentiating between Move 1: ‘Background information’ and Move 4 – Step B ‘Comparing results with literature’ can be problematic because the scopes of Move 1 and Move 4 – Step B include statements related theories or previous studies. The purpose of restating related theories in Move 1 is to prepare readers for the following discussion of results of a study whereas, in Move 4 – Step B, it is to compare as well as contrast the findings of a study with those of previous research. It seemed

Essay on Brutus in William Shakespeares Julius Caesar

Brutus in William Shakespeares Julius Caesar In Julius Caesar, Shakespeare intended us to see Brutus as noble. I wish to review his actions, and the motivating factors behind those actions. I intend to prove that Brutus had a strong and well-grounded character. He had good intentions, however, he made one fatal mistake and that was his downfall. When learn that Brutus is dedicated to the public, when Brutus decides Caesar must die, because he fears his ambition, this comes as a big shock to the Shakespearian audience as well as the modern day audience. He had many positive qualities. I wish to bring these to a light and explore how they affected the plot. Brutus believes that his role in†¦show more content†¦In act 2, scene 1, Brutus is finally introduced to the group of conspirators; in this act we notice the first mistake Brutus makes. Alas good Cassius do not think of him. If he loves Caesar, all that he can is to himself, take thought, and die for Caesar. And that were much he should, for he is given to sports, to wilderness, and much company. Brutus believes he has only to explain his reasons for killing Caesar and everyone will accept them. Hes, as we have seen, used to being followed. His principles are noble. He puts Rome above everything. It might be hard for a modern day audience to see killing ones best friend as a noble act. Brutus is also a philosophical thinker. He has predetermined ideas on life that govern his actions and decisions throughout the play. Such examples are his unwillingness to let the conspirators kill Marc Anthony in their jealous goal to create a political rebellion. For Anthony is but a limb of Caesar: Let us be sacrificers, but not butcher, Caius. He also allows Anthony to have the final speech at Caesars funeral, which is a very important matter. Some can say it is a blunder, others might say it was Brutuss way of being honourable. Speaking last to the crowd like that allowed him to efficiently get the last word and impart his thoughts as first and foremost to the crowd. The crowd believesShow MoreRelatedSympathizing with Brutus of William Shakespeares Julius Caesar1130 Words   |  5 PagesSympathizing with Brutus of William Shakespeares Julius Caesar Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare is an interesting and complex play based on historical events that took place in Rome in 44 BC. The plot revolves around the assassination of Julius Caesar by his closest friend- Marcus Brutus, and Marc Antonys attempt to avenge his death. The play portrays many important themes that are still relevant in todays society like the struggle for political power; loveRead MoreThe Portrayal of Brutus as a Tragic Hero in William Shakespeares Julius Caesar964 Words   |  4 PagesThe Portrayal of Brutus as a Tragic Hero in William Shakespeares Julius Caesar Throughout the works of Shakespeare, tragedy has always been a vital foundation and a key to his immense successes. His fine mastery of the art became legendary amongst the audiences that watched his various plays. Romeo and Juliet is a prime example of the tragedy he could combine into a stage performance. An Irish poet named Oscar Wilde who was a novelist, dramatist and critic in the lateRead MoreThe Difference Between Brutus and Cassius in William Shakespeares Julius Caesar924 Words   |  4 PagesDifference Between Brutus and Cassius in William Shakespeares Julius Caesar In Shakespeares Julius Caesar, Brutus and Cassius are contrasting characters. They differ in the way they perceive Antony as a threat to the assassination plot, their dominance in personality, and their moral obligation. In Julius Caesar, Brutus is the more naÃÆ' ¯ve, dominant and noble character, while Cassius is the more perceptive, submissive, and manipulative person. Brutus and Cassius areRead MoreA Comparison of Speeches by Brutus and Antony in William Shakespeares Julius Caesar780 Words   |  4 PagesA Comparison of Speeches by Brutus and Antony in William Shakespeares Julius Caesar This historic play which was written by William Shakespeare in the 16 century as a play is in fact based on older history dating back to time before Christ. When the roman empire was the most powerful in the world and a man named Julius Caesar was the roman statesman and general who ruled it. William Shakespeare however changes the historic accounts to some point in order for theRead MoreThe Inner Turmoil Expressed in Brutus’ Soliloquy in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar659 Words   |  3 Pages Brutus’ soliloquy in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar reveals Brutus’ inner turmoil before he decides on participating in the conspiracy. Brutus is torn between his love for Rome and his friendship with Caesar. However, Brutus fears that Caesar’s tyranny after enthroning will cause harm to Rome and return Rome to dictatorship. In the end, Brutus chooses his obligation to Rome over Caesar. Brutus soliloquy reflects on his internal conflict between his love for Caesar and his fear of CaesarsRead MoreComapring the Speeches of Mark Antony and Brutus in William Shakespeares Julius Caesar1325 Words   |  6 Pagesthe Speeches of Mark Antony and Brutus in William Shakespeares Julius Caesar The play Julius Caesar reaches a peak of tension at the point of the two speeches, and so it would seem whichever speech was enjoyed more by the crowd would make the speaker the more popular. This was in fact the case in the play. Mark Antony used better techniques of speech than Brutus and he prevailed in the end. After the conspirators have killed Caesar, Brutus agrees to let Antony performRead MoreJulius Caesar- Honor of Brutus Essay776 Words   |  4 Pagesenough to take their life in order to defend it. In William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, there are certain characters portrayed to show how a person’s values or ideas can change their behavior and influence some significant decisions. The protagonist of the play, Marcus Brutus, supports this thought by having an idealistic view on the world and by showing his patriotism toward Rome. In William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Shakespeare uses Brutus as an honorable, idealistic man in order to show theRead More A Comparison of Plutarchs The Lives of the Ancient Grecians and Romans and Shakespeares Julius Caesar660 Words   |  3 Pagesand Romans and Shakespeares Julius Caesar When closely evaluating the two texts: Plutarchs The Lives of the Ancient Grecians and Romans and Shakespeares Julius Caesar, there are stark differences of the theme and characters. While Plutarchs text is mostly informative, as describing a series of historical events, Shakespeare incorporates a wide variety of dramatic conventions as well as changing many events to entertain an audience. It is important to note that Shakespeares play was basedRead More Marcus Brutus as Tragic Hero in Shakespeares Julius Caesar Essays735 Words   |  3 PagesMarcus Brutus as Tragic Hero in Shakespeares Julius Caesar      Ã‚   In many stories there is a tragic hero. The hero finds out about himself and the people around him in the story. In Shakespeares play, Julius Caesar, Marcus Brutus is the tragic hero. The play Julius Caesar is about politics and betrayal in ancient Rome. Brutus is part of the senate, which is below Caesar, who is soon to be crowned. The senate wants to overthrow Caesar to save Rome. To do this the senate has to get BrutusRead More Brutus is the Tragic Hero of Julius Caesar Essay858 Words   |  4 PagesBrutus is the Tragic Hero of Julius Caesar      Ã‚  Ã‚   Shakespeares play Julius Caesar is a tragic play, where the renowned Julius Caesar is on the brink of achieving total control and power by becoming emperor of the Roman Empire. Ironically enough, when he thinks he is one step away from pulling it off, his friends (most from the senate) decide to overthrow him, with Caesars most trusted friend, Marcus Brutus, acting as leader of the conspirators. Though the fall of Caesar from the most

Characteristic, Personal Attributes, Styles and Qualities free essay sample

Abstract: Leadership can be defined as the ability to influence a group toward the achievement of a vision or a set of goals. The theories can divide by 3 chronological in groups that deal with leadership. First were the trait theories. Until the 1940s, research in the field of leadership was dominated by these theories. Second came from the behavioral theories which were very influent until the late 1960s. Finally, contingency theories are the most modern theories about leadership. Trait theories are theories that consider personal qualities and characteristics that ifferentiate leaders from non-leaders. Early results aimed at confirming this theory were inconclusive. Many research studies were conducted and each identified key traits supposed to differentiate leaders from non-leaders. The problem is that they didnt get the same results, thus failing to discover common traits, which should have shown in each research study. When applying the Big Five Personality framework (extravers ion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, emotional stability and openness to experience) to the study and research of leadership traits, results were more ncouraging. They showed that the most important trait for leaders was extraversion. Still, this founding should be mitigated. Extraversion seems to be a crucial trait in getting leaders into leadership positions or being recognized by others as being a leader but isnt necessary related to effectiveness in the long run. Another trait that was identified by recent studies is emotional intelligence. The point is that if a leader doesnt have emotional intelligence all his other skills and qualities such as, competence, experience, excellent analytical skills, vision, etc. ay fail to ave a positive influence on the people he leads. Central to emotional intelligence is empathy and the caring part of empathy, especially for the people with whom you work, is what inspires people to stay with a leader when the going gets rough. The mere fact that someone cares is more often than not rewarded with loyalty. Instead of focusing on personality traits, behavioral theories focus on the behavior of effective l eaders. This distinction is very important because if behavioral theories proved to be true they would mean that people can be trained to become better eaders, in contrast to the trait theories, which assumed that characteristics that made the difference between leaders and non-leaders were given to an individual and couldnt be changed, thus leaving organizations with the recruiting process of selecting the right leader as the only tool towards effectiveness and little hope for any improvement. The most famous behavioral theory was developed by the Ohio State University. It basically identifies two categories of behavior associated with effective leaders: initiating structure and consideration. Initiating structure refers to he extent to which a leader is likely to define and structure his or her role and those a leader is likely to have Job relationships characterized by mutual trust, respect for subordinates ideas, and regard for their feelings. We can note that the consideration dimension is similar to the empathy part of emotional intelligence discussed in the trait theory, thus suggesting it is an important factor since it is evidenced and common to both approaches to leadership. The second behavioral theory was developed by the University of Michigan. It also identified two dimensions in leadership behavior. Those dimensions are employee-oriented and production- oriented. Employee-oriented leaders favor interpersonal relations, take personal interest in their employees needs and accept individual differences among members whereas production-oriented leaders focus and insist on the technical, operational and task aspect of the Job. The findings of the University of Michigans research show that employee-oriented leaders were associated with higher group productivity and higher Job satisfaction (whereas) production-oriented leaders tended to be associated with low group productivity and lower Job satisfaction. Once again we have a dimension (employee-oriented) which is very similar to the emotional intelligence factor of trait theories and the consideration factor of the Ohio State Universitys behavioral theory. Although no formal connection has been demonstrated so far, its worth bearing in mind that these elements are consistent with three major theories in the subject of leadership. Hersey and Blanchards in Situational Theory (SLT), the SLT is quite intuitive. Maybe thats why it is so popular in organizations nowadays. It basically states that a leader hould adapt to his employees degree of willingness and ability to perform a task. For example, if an employee is both unwilling and unable, the leader needs to provide him with directions that are both clear and specific. If the employee is able but unwilling, the leader needs to use a supportive and participative style. Etc. Introduction: In this articles review, I am going to look at the characteristics of leaders. What qualities they all share, their personal attributes and the different styles they adopt. Look at the theories by Tannenbaum Schmidt, Douglas McGregor Kerr Schriesheim. Also what challenges they may face and looking at focusing on leadership. Body of text: Characteristics/attributes: Ability to make decisions Willingness to lead Integrity Enthusiasm Imagination Willingness to work hard Ability to analyses people, data situations Ability to understand people Be able to deal with difficult Ability to spot opportunities situations On top of the above, all leaders should be able to plan, initiate, control, support, inform and evaluate within they working lives. Leadership styles cannot be fully explained by behavioral models. The situation in hich the group is operating also determines the style of the leadership, which is adopted. Several models exists which attempt to understand the relationship between style situation, four from the module are described here. According to Tannenbaum Schmidt (1958) believes in the autocratic and democratic model where leaders are somewhere in between using their authority to get the Job done or to allow freedom within the team. Douglas McGregor (1960) believed in the X Y theories. His model is based on the belief that workers are generally lazy and without a push to achieve they will become disinterested. Theory Y on the other hand believes that workers are keen to do well so are interested in what they do. Kerr Schriesheim (1974) The Ohio State Leadership Model, which uses the ideas of leaders, which: 1. Initiate structure 2. Show consideration Just by looking at these four theories, you can see that a pattern is emerging. They seem to be either democratic where the leader believes in allowing freedom to their workers, or autocratic where the leader believes that a tight rein on what goes on with their workers is best. How about with the leadership attitudes? These appear to e broken into two sections, either Task oriented or People oriented. Once again these are following the same two routes of either democratic or autocratic. Broken down, they are: Leadership attitudes: Task oriented leaders, who are most interested in training, instructing behavior, performance and winning. Where as a people oriented, leaders are more interested in the interpersonal relationships within the team. (Adair 1984) Based on these two styles, Blake Mouton developed the Management grid, which classifies leadership styles into: 1. Country club 2. Team 3. Middle of the Road 4. Impoverished 5. Authority/Obedience 1. Country Club This person uses reward power to maintain discipline and to encourage the team to accomplish its goals. 2. Team This type of person leads by positive example and endeavors to foster a team environment in which all team members can reach their highest potential, both with team members and as people. They encourage the team to reach team goals as effectively as possible while working tirelessly to strengthen bonds among various members. 3. Middle of the Road This type of person is able to balance the importance of getting the Job done in the orrect manner while taking into consideration the needs of the team. . Impoverished This leader uses delegate or disappear management style. They are not really committed to either the task accomplishment or maintenance. They allow their team Authoritarian These leaders are very much task oriented are hard on their workers. There is little of no allowance for co-operation or collaboration. They are very strong on deadlines and expect their workers to do whatever they are told without question. When something goes wrong, they tend to focus on who is to blame rather than concentrate n what went wrong and how they can prevent it from happening again. This in turn makes it very difficult for the workers to contribute or develop. (Anon 2005) All these styles have a place in leadership but it is only by studying the situation and the forces affecting it, that you will know which style to choose. Situational Leadership: Situational leadership operates by using one of four approaches, which was developed by Paul Hersey Kenneth Blanchard (1988). 1. High task low relationships is where the leader needs to define the roles direct the team or individual to get the task done. Communication is largely one-way. 2. High relationship low task is where the leader needs to support the team after a group decision has been made on how the Job is to be completed. Control is with the team. 3. High task high relationship is where the leader still defines the roles but seek ideas from the team. Decisions remain the leaders domain but the communication is more two way. 4. Low task low relationship is where the leader is still involved in decisions and problem solving but the control is with the team. The team decides when how the leader is involved. As shown by this panel (Blanchard K. t al 1986) i. Supporting it. Praise, listen facilitate iii. Coaching v. Direct support v. Delegating v. Turn over responsibility for day to day decision vil. Making viii. Directing x. Structure, control supervise So a suitable mix of supportive directive behavior defines the four styles. Which one is most important during a period of change when the team could be feeling negative? Leadership Challenges: Leadership can come under challenges one of the toughest is change having to lead their team through that process. Change can be anything from re-structuring, e-location to the introduction of new equipment processes to new policies. Resistance to change is an understandable reaction recognizing resistance gives the leader the opportunity to do something about it. (Antonakis J. 2004) Typically the superficial reasons given for resistance are not the real deep-seated concerns. Leaders need to take time to understand then address the underlying fears. Once the real concern is understood, the leader can consider what points to emphasize to support while the leader is trying to drive the change through. Allow your team to have their say, listen and acknowledge their concerns. Be honest; let them know the bad as well as the good news. Keep your cool and keep promises and be enthusiastic about the planned changes, be positive. The leader needs to find equilibrium. In the module, it breaks it down to 5 key points: Supportive Honest Informative No-nonsense Enthusiastic The leader needs to find equilibrium some kind of focus. Focusing your leadership: 1. Heroic Leaders Ordinary people, like Nelson Mandela, who have overcome hardship difficulties through patience and persistence, they set examples to others. They have a belief and demonstrate day after day determination to succeed.

The statement that maps are never value-free images Essay Example

The statement that maps are never value-free images Essay Maps are never value-free images except in the narrowest sense that they are not n themselves either true or false. They are selective in their content and in their styles and signs of representation. Maps are a way of articulating the human world which is affected by particular sets of social relations. Political, social and religious powers have used maps to depict the extent and strength of their power. Mapmaking was one of the specialised intellectual weapons by which power could be gained, given legitimacy, administered and codified. Maps have been weapons of imperialism as much as guns, maps were used in colonial promotion and lands were claimed on paper even before they were occupied. Therefore maps anticipated empire, they were used to legitimise the reality of conquest and empire and helped essentially to create myths. Maps were also used throughout history by the state or individual landlords to show their ownership of property and control a peasant or tenant population and for the regulation of land and extraction of taxes. The maps invisibly affected the daily lives of people just as the clock brought in time discipline, maps brought and new dimension to space discipline. Maps are embedded in the history they help construct. While the western way of viewing maps has become the norm, with Europe in the located in the centre, there have been many other approaches in viewing the world. For example Australian cartographers have a different perspective, they had Australia centred and at the top of the map. Even Arab cartographers of the twelfth century viewed the world differently, and their maps today would appear upside down to us. We will write a custom essay sample on The statement that maps are never value-free images specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The statement that maps are never value-free images specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The statement that maps are never value-free images specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The main problem in drawing maps is transforming a 3-dimensional world into a 2-dimensional representation as the result is distortion. The sixteenth and seventeenth centuries saw the Mercator projection. The main use to which Mercators maps were put was in navigation, so coastlines are the most accurately rendered features, his projection but did however distort the area. Particular parts of the world such as the north looked territorially bigger and therefore more powerful; North America looks much bigger than Africa for example. Europe is also centre on this projection, it is the navel of the world, and has an appearance of being rather large and superior. An alternative view of the world is presented in the Peters projection. The aim of the Peters projection is to represent area with maximum accuracy, it preserves area but at the expensive of the shapes of the landmasses becoming elongated and severely distorted. Deliberate distortions of map content have been used throughout history for political purposes. Behind the mapmaker is a set of power relations and by manipulating scale, over-enlarging or moving topography or by using strong, suggestive colours, makers of propaganda maps have been a cause of the one sided view of geopolitical politics. Many wars have been fought as much in the contents of propaganda maps as through any other medium. Maps show as much as they hide, the cartographer is essentially the author and they have the power to represent what they believe to be important or essential on the map. Also their name is usually hidden so that the map assumes as air of accuracy and objectivity. Monmonier states that not only is it easy to lie with maps, it is essential, maps have to omit certain details as it is not possible to include everything on a map and it to be still legible. Maps therefore simplify and the cartographer chooses the selected features that are to be presented on it so as to point us to a way of reading it. Silences on maps exert a social influence through their omissions as much as through the features they depict and emphasise. There is an important political undercurrent in these silences. For example nuclear waste dumps are not shown on USGS topographical maps, so as not to cause the government embarrassment. In early modern maps castle signs representing military of feudal rank appeared larger than villages despite the fact they occupy less ground. Their purpose was to heighten their perception of power. Maps are never value-free images they construct rather than represent the world; they are a unique system of signs and are undermined by certain ideologies. The cartographer may also be biased in his choice of what is represented on the map and he is usually influenced by certain power relations. Maps cannot simply be taken for face value and one must be aware of what they do not say as much as what they do, in order to fully appreciate their power to manipulate.