Design Thinking Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Design Thinking - Essay Example This paper is going to discuss design thinking in relation to Mr Porter, an online retail shop for men’s clothing. Additionally the paper is going to survey the benefits of design thinking to Mr Porter as an online clothing shop. Finally, this paper is going to give illustrate how design thinking can be used to solve current problems and future problems in the design industry, specifically Mr Porter (AMBROSE & HARRIS, 2010). Description of the business organization (Mr Porter) Mr. Porter is an online based retail shop that sells men’s clothing only. It was established in the year 2011 and is among the leading men retail online shopping stores globally. Mr. Porter’s headquarters is based in London. The online company has three distribution points that is London, New York and Hong Kong. Employees at Mr. Porter serve customers via the internet using a service called net-a-porter under the website net-a-porter.com. Another website is the theoutnet.com which serves as a subsidiary branch. Apart from selling men’s clothing online, Mr. ... In addition to this, Mr. Porter also do free returns collections and exchanges on customers orders. Finally, Mr. Porter is widely known for its exemplary customer care. The customer care team includes personal online shoppers group that guide customers while ordering and advice on trends and fashion tips (Howell (n.d.), 2013). Concept of design thinking (criteria/process) innovation as a store of opp for eve of new nad unexpected changes for Mr. porter Design thinking is made up of six steps. The diagram below illustrates in depth the steps in design thinking as a tool fro business Porter (AMBROSE & HARRIS, 2010). Understand Design thinking relies heavily on the understanding part. This is because without understanding a solution cannot be found. In this step research and interviews are conducted to gain further insight on the situation. This gives out the base how to solve the problem at hand. In the understanding part, Mr Porter can use expert advice from other leading brands like Givenchy, Alexander McQueen, dolce and Gabbana and many others. This is because they have probably experienced the same problems sometime in their businesses. Observe Observation is a key step in design thinking. This is because by watching a company or an individual can learn a lot. Understanding of the problem and observing how other leaders run their business cause empathy. Mr. Porter should take the virtue of empathy in order to walk in the shoes of the customers. This will enable them to move with the trends and remain relevant in the industry. Furthermore, empathy on Mr. Porter’s side will boost sales in that empathy makes them creative enough to read the minds of the customers and give them what they want. This is in terms of convenience, prices,

Is regulation really necessary, or can all the benefits claimed for it Essay

Is regulation really necessary, or can all the benefits claimed for it be achieved through the promotion of competition alone - Essay Example National governments may regulate for a variety of reasons, including re-election and influence from economically powerful houses (Baldwin, Cave, and Lodge, 2012:16). Governments may also technically justify regulations, thus the general assumption that the regulation was in the context of public interest. However, most rationales presented are instances of market failure, thus regulation is initiated, as the uncontrollable market will produce results or behaviors against public interest. Other scenarios may present issues of market absence, or an ineffective market. One of the advancing and developing industries in the global economy is information and communication technology (ICT). The rapid growth of ICT presents concern over regulation and the possibilities of eliminating market failures, thus the rise of such regulatory bodies like the Federal Communication Commission in the US. In summary, regulation is better than competition in safeguarding public interest. Among the theory favoring regulation, include public interest theory, private interest theory, and interest groups theory. According to the public interest theory as argued by Baldwin, Cave, and Lodge, in their 2012 publication, the rationale behind regulation is to benefit and protect the public at large. The theory capitalizes on potential market failures such as monopolistic powers, externalities, asymmetric information, and strategic behaviors. It thus creates the ideology that consumers need protection from market failures and business abuses, with the assumption that regulation serves the best interests of the public through restricting potentially harmful business behaviors (Baldwin, Cave, and Lodge, 2012:164). The interest groups theory suggests that there is need for regulation for the interests of stakeholders, while the private interest theory seeks to safeguard the interest of private inte rest groups in regulation.

Proposal to De-criminalise Recreational Cannabis Use in Australia

Proposal to De-criminalise Recreational Cannabis Use in Australia In Australia there is a metaphorical ‘war on drugs’ that has failed comprehensively and as a result there is an ever-increasing level of support for the movement for drug reform.[1] There are a plethora of drug offences that relate to cannabis and a variety of statutory doctrines covered by both Commonwealth and State Law which assist in the prosecution of drug offences. The following report includes an overview of drug offences in NSW with a focus on cannabis. As well as an examination of policy issues associated with the criminalisation of recreational cannabis and potential risks and benefits related with alternative legal frameworks, in addition to a recommendation relating to the decriminalisation of cannabis. Drug Offences: The drug offences covered under the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1966 (NSW) (DMTA) include use, possession, supply, trafficking, cultivation and manufacturing of prohibited plants and drugs as well as aiding and abetting and taking part in offences involving prohibited drugs and/or plants. These laws apply to cannabis as the substance is a prohibited drug as specified in Schedule 1 of the DMTA and is a prohibited plant as outlined in s 3. Additionally, cannabis is a poisons and can be found under s 8 of the Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966 (NSW), cannabis is a Schedule Nine substance and therefore is a substance which may be misused or abused and the manufacture, possession, sale and/or use is prohibited by law’[2] Under s 40 of the DMTA the ‘deemed drug’ provision, makes it an offence to attempt to supply or misrepresent a legal substance as an illicit drug e.g. representing parsley as cannabis. The definition of supply in s 3 makes the offence complete upon making the offer contrary to whether supply eventuates or whether there was an intention to supply is irrelevant. Under s 29 of the DMTA where a person is found to be in possession of a certain amount of a prohibited drug it is assumed that they are a drug trafficker, for cannabis leaf this weight is 300grams and the onus falls on the accused to prove otherwise. Traffickable offences also include possession of prohibited plants (s 23) and supply of prohibited drugs (s 25) as outlined in the DMTA and carry fines of 2,000 penalty units and/or 10 years imprisonment. DMTA prohibits the manufacture, supply, possession and/or use of prohibited drugs including cannabis. There are a variety of drug offences in NSW. As outlined in Pt 2 Div 1 of the DMTA including possession (s 10) and self-administration (s 12) which are summary offences and mean that an individual is liable for a fine of 20 penalty units and/or 2 years imprisonment (s 21).[3] Under s 11 of the DMTA it is an offence to be in possession of equipment for administration of prohibited drugs. The Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1996 (NSW) also assists in the prosecution of drug offences as it regulates, controls and prohibits the supply and use of different categories of drugs of which cannabis is classified as a drug of addiction thus a prohibited substance under Schedule 9 of the Poisons Act. The above-mentioned statutory doctrines must also coincide with the elements of criminal offences mens rea and actus reus before a person is found guilty. Major policy issues Statutory doctrines and court decisions created to assist in the prosecution of drug offences have contributed to the over criminalisation of drug-related behaviours. Drug policy in NSW is increasingly concerned with promoting approaches to minimise health risks and other harms caused by the use of cannabis and other legal and prohibited drugs.[4] There are a number of practical and ethical policy issues that are associated with the criminalisation of cannabis. Many policy issues arise regarding harm minimisation through ‘therapeutic’ criminalisation and harm minimisation. This includes the Cannabis Cautioning Scheme (CCS) which was introduced in 2000 and is a formal cautioning of adult offenders detected for minor offences relating to cannabis. As well as the Medicinal Cannabis Compassionate Use Scheme (MCCUS) which allows police to use their discretion as whether or not to caution terminally ill patients.[5] Other policy issues that arise as a result of criminalisation include a lack of medical supervision inevitably leading to the spread to preventable disease, overdose deaths, adulterated substances, drug related violence, distraction of police resources. ‘Prohibition is counterproductive — it causes significant harms additional to those resulting from drug use’ instead of funding for health and social services funding is diverted to law enforcement, prosecution and incarceration.’[6]   There are concerns as to criminalisation over targeting many low risk offenders such as those dealt with under the CCS.[7] This encroaches on users feelings of personal and financial security as it is often low level offences that are being dealt with pushing users further into poverty.[8] There is a slow movement in Australia to decriminalise cannabis however the CCS is a ‘punishment so disproportionate, because even if you end up having no real penalty you have a charge, the impact on employment opportunities and family can be lifelong.’[9] The purpose of criminalisation is often questioned and policy is concerned as whether there are benefits to criminalisation or whether criminalisation is implemented as it is a highly visible â€Å"solution† to real and perceived harms and risks associated with the recreational use of cannabis.[10] The framework is increasingly utilised as it can be enacted quickly, is visible and is often correlated with a strong government. It is a common opinion that the NSW Government are contradicting their actions and intentions between attempting to criminalise cannabis while minimising the harms associated with drug use which is supported by Tadeh Karapetian’s statement ‘the Government’s objective of minimising harm has been undermined by the criminalisation policy, through the stigmatisation of cannabis users, the preservation of the black market, the limitations of diversion schemes and the restriction of medicinal use.’ [11] Recently, the Court of Criminal Appeal in NSW, extended criminal liability for drug offences, fortunately, the High Court prevented on over reaching prosecution attempts to extend criminal liability in drug offences. In the case of Burns v The Queen the High Court found that unlawfully supplying a drug to someone does not ‘by itself, form the basis for unlawful and dangerous act manslaughter’.[12]   However, if supplying a drug did amount to manslaughter, over criminalisation would occur. As a result, users and suppliers would be more reluctant to call authorities for assistance for fear of being penalised and the criminal justice system would be over-exhausted and burdened as a result.[13]   It is estimated that Australians spend over $7 billion on cannabis annually, this is a concern for the Government as they are losing out on a potential revenue stream by criminalising cannabis use.[14] The National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2013 found that the recent use of cannabis in NSW dropped from 16.7% in 1998 to 9.5% in 2013, this is a concern for policy makers as it cannot be concluded that the ‘data does not support the notion that a criminalisation policy is more effective in preventing cannabis use.’[15] While the current policy criminalises the use of cannabis, policy is gradually de-criminalising cannabis and central to the policy debate is the belief that cannabis is a ‘gateway drug’ that raises concerns as to what other drugs users may be exposed to if cannabis is de-criminalised.[16] Alternative Legal Frameworks A national drug policy has been implemented in Australia since 1985 and accepts that the eradication of illegal drug use is not achievable. Instead it aims to minimise harm by reducing demand and supply.[17]There are multiple different legal frameworks the govern the use and supply of drugs: Depenalisation means drug use and possession carry lighter criminal penalties, whilst drug supply remains a criminal offence.[18] A benefit of this framework is that drug supply is still illegal which may assist in reducing the amount of cannabis that is supplied to users. Another benefit is that users are able to use the drug with a lesser penalty which may deter some users. Conversely, due to the lesser penalty, users may use cannabis rather than a drug that has harsher penalties. This will be detrimental to the government as they will be spending money in order to assist in imposing lighter penalties such as offering drug education and treatment services.[19] Decriminalisation results in drug use and possession no longer carrying criminal penalties but are replaced with civil penalties. Those who use or possess drugs may still be charged especially if fines are not paid or attending assessments are not complied with.[20] The supply of drugs is still a criminal offence. Many politicians are concerned that the decriminalisation of cannabis would ‘send the wrong message.’[21] Additionally, researches have supported this argument, arguing that ‘removing criminal penalties would lead to increased drug use, with harms falling hardest on the deprived communities that are already the most damaged by drug-related problems.’[22] Conversely, research undertaken in Sweden has shown that ‘as a result of decriminalisation, drug use does not increase among existing or new users, but reduces demand on, and the cost of the criminal justice system.[23] There may be reductions in problematic drug use, drug-related HIV and AIDS, deaths and reduced social costs of responding to drugs.[24] However, the way decriminalisation is implemented may affect the extent of net-widening which is an increase in the number of people arrested or charged.[25] Legalisation: the use and supply of cannabis is legal.[26] Approximately one in four Australians (26%) believe that the recreational use of cannabis should be legal.[27] The biggest risk is that supplying the drug is legalised. This makes it difficult to control the risks and harms associated with cannabis. Many people may abuse the legalisation of cannabis and treat it as a â€Å"gateway drug† to harsher and riskier drugs. It may result in reducing black market and criminal networks associated with cannabis drug trading, shift in responses and funding from the police and the criminal justice system towards heath, treatment and education programs. The taxes raised from the legalisation of cannabis could be used for the benefit of the community. By legalising cannabis there may be a significant increase in drug use, based on the harms and costs associated with legal drugs such as alcohol and tobacco. Recommendation It is essential that Governments recognises that they cannot strictly control the behaviour of citizens.[28] In response to the War on Drugs, the government needs to consider ending ‘the criminalization, marginalization and stigmatization of people who use drugs but who do no harm to others’ and ‘Encourage experimentation by governments with models of legal regulation of drugs to undermine the power of organized crime and safeguard the health and security of their citizens.’[29] The civil penalty applicable to minor cannabis offences creates fairness and justice as it is a more proportionate response. As a result, criminal justice resources will be freed up and civil penalties will generate a revenue for the NSW Government. ‘The only way to achieve goals of rational drug policy is to replace black market for drugs with form of legal availability under highly regulated system’, this means that the NSW government should adopt the non-commercial model which is popular in Uruguay, and allows the government to retain control over the production and sale of cannabis.[30] There should be a minimum age purchase such as 21 in the case of Colorado or 18 in Uruguay.[31] The drug should be purchased through pharmacies, with there being a limit on how much can be purchased per month as well as the purity, what forms it can be sold, the training and responsibilities of suppliers, education about the drug and much more.[32] Conclusion As a result of the ineffective ‘war on drugs’, there has been a global movement for drug law reform.[33] Former Victorian police commissioner Ken Lay, has explained that ‘you can’t arrest your way out of this problem’, showing the need for the NSW Government to reconsider the drug policy in regards to the recreational use of cannabis.[34] The key drug offences and major policy issues associated with the recreational use of cannabis is over criminalising and as a result placing strain on law enforcement and users. The government needs to be more concerned with harm minimisation rather than prohibition because ‘drug law enforcement has had little impact on the Australian drug market.’[35] In conclusion, with the application of sensible and reasonably strict criteria the decriminalisation of cannabis for recreational cannabis would benefit the NSW justice system, users and the community. Bibliography A Articles/Books/Reports Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Australian Government, Alcohol & other drug treatment services (2018) Caitlin Hughes and Alison Ritter, A Summary of Diversion Programs for Drug and Drug-Related Offenders in Australia (2008) National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre Cannabis legalisation: what model for regulation? (7 December 2017) Alcohol and Drug Foundation Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research and Innovation, Review of the Medicinal Cannabis Compassionate Use Scheme (2016) NSW Government Conrad, Chris, Hemp for Health: The Medicinal and Nutritional Uses of Cannabis Sativa (Healing Arts Press, Rochester, 1997) Drug Programs and Initiatives (2018) NSW Government Featherston, James, Simon Lenton, Effects of the Western Australian Cannabis Infringement Notice Scheme on Public Attitudes, Knowledge and Use: Comparison of Pre- and Post-Change Data (2007) National Drug Research Institute Curtin and Curtin University of Technology Hari, Johann, About Drug Policy Australia (2018) Drug Policy Australia Hall, Wayne, Pacula Liccardo, Rosalie, Cannabis Use and Dependence: Public Health and Public Policy (The Press Syndicate of the University of Cambridge, 2003) Hughes, Caitlyn, Alex Stevens, ‘What Can We Learn From The Portuguese Decriminalization of Illicit Drugs?’ (21 July 2010) The British Journal of Criminology Gettman, Jon, Top 10 Marijuana Policy Issues For 2018 (2 January 2018) High Times Gotsis, Tom, Chris Angus and Lenny Roth, Illegal Drug Use and Possession: Current Policy and Debates (Briefing Paper No 4, NSW Parliamentary Research Services, 2016) Featherston, James, Simon Lenton, Effects of the Western Australian Cannabis Infringement Notice Scheme on Public Attitudes, Knowledge and Use: Comparison of Pre- and Post-Change Data (2007) National Drug Research Institute Curtin and Curtin University of Technology Lee, Nicole, Alison Ritter, Australia’s Recreational Drug Policies Aren’t Working, so What are the Options for Reform? (2 March 2016) The Conversation Mostyn, Ben, Helen Gibbon and Nicholas Cowdery, The Criminalisation of Drugs and the Search for Alternative Approaches   ‘24(2)’ Criminal Justice State Library New South Wales, Drug Laws in NSW (29 October 2015) http://legalanswers.sl.nsw.gov.au/drugs-and-law-hot-topics/drug-laws-nsw State Library New South Wales, Drug Offences (1 October 2016) Stephen Odgers, Editorial: Drug Law Reform (2014) 38(6) Criminal Law Journal Karapetian, Tadeh, Criminalisation of Cannabis in New South Wales: Is Harm Minimisation Going Up in Smoke? (2017) University of New South Wales Law Journal Student Series 17 B Cases Burns v The Queen [2012] HCA 35 C Legislation Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966 (NSW) [1] Ben Mostyn, Helen Gibbon and Nicholas Cowdery, The Criminalisation of Drugs and the Search for Alternative Approaches ‘24(2)’ Criminal Justice, 265. [2] Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966 (NSW) [3] Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) [4] Johann Hari, About Drug Policy Australia (2018) Drug Policy Australia [5] Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research and Innovation, Review of the Medicinal Cannabis Compassionate Use Scheme (2016) NSW Government [6] Mostyn, above n 1, 265. [7] Tadeh Karapetian, Criminalisation of Cannabis in New South Wales: Is Harm Minimisation Going Up in Smoke? (2017) University of New South Wales Law Journal Student Series 17. [8] Ibid. [9]Caitlin Hughes and Alison Ritter, A Summary of Diversion Programs for Drug and Drug-Related Offenders in Australia (2008) National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre [10] Tom Gotsis, Chris Angus and Lenny Roth, Illegal Drug Use and Possession: Current Policy and Debates (Briefing Paper No 4, NSW Parliamentary Research Services, 2016) 19. [11] Karapetian, above n 9. [12] Burns v The Queen [2012] HCA 35. [13] Mostyn, above n 7,264 [14] Ibid. [15] Ibid. [16] Wayne Hall, Rosalie Liccardo Pacula, Cannabis Use and Dependence: Public Health and Public Policy (The Press Syndicate of the University of Cambridge, 2003) 4. [17]Gotsis, above n 12. [18] Ibid. [19] Ibid. [20] Lee, above n 18, 26. [21] Caitlin Hughes, Alex Stevens, ‘What Can We Learn From The Portuguese Decriminalization of Illicit Drugs?’ (21 July 2010) The British Journal of Criminology ‘50(6)’ [22] Ibid. [23] James Featherston, Simon Lenton, Effects of the Western Australian Cannabis Infringement Notice Scheme on Public Attitudes, Knowledge and Use: Comparison of Pre- and Post-Change Data (2007) National Drug Research Institute Curtin and Curtin University of Technology 50-62. [24] Lee, above n 18, 26. [25] Ibid. [26] Ibid. [27] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Australian Government, Alcohol & other drug treatment services (2018) [28] Karapetian, above n, 9. [29] Mostyn, above n 1, 262. [30] Stephen Odgers, Editorial: Drug Law Reform (2014) 38(6) Criminal Law Journal, 335. [31] Ibid. [32] Ibid. [33] Mostyn, above n 1, 269. [34] Lee, above n 18, 26 [35] Ibid.

Essay on Creon in Sophocles and Anouilhs Antigone -- Antigone essays

Creon in Sophocles' and Anouilh's "Antigone"       In both plays, Creon sees himself as a passive agent rather than a villain, only acting out a predetermined set of instructions based upon certain laws and edicts. Creon tries to give the impression that he is not really in control; if it were up to him, as an individual, things would be different. Sophocles' Creon tries to wash his hands of Antigone's death by leaving her in a sealed cave. The gods will determine her fate, so he thinks. Anouilh's Creon goes so far as to admit the "childish stupidity" of his own decree. He even confides in Antigone that he is not certain which brother's body was buried. He insists, though, that once knowledge of her act is public, the matter is entirely beyond his control. There is a point of no return past which he is powerless to act. In becoming king, an instrument of the State, Creon can no longer assert his will as an individual, morally or otherwise. Where the original Creon tried to leave matters with the gods, Anouilh's Creon points towa rd the State and its will independent of his own.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Antigone's fate unfolds in both plays and Creon does not interecede. Although ironically they share a sense of powerlessness, an important distinction can be made at this point. Sophocles' Creon learns from Antigone's death. Her sacrifice acquires meaning. Anouilh's Creon is too busy with matters of state to assess Antigone's death on a personal level. Her sacrifice is inconsequential, another shot fired into the mob. The reaction of each king to Antigone's death and the carnage that ensues shapes the conclusion of each play literally and thematically.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Creon in the original play repents belatedly after learnin... ... seems to suggest that morality must or will be compromised. For Sophocles, morality helps to reinforce order, but on a cosmic, and in many ways absurd, level. Creon is forced to submit to the laws of jealous, fickle, inconstant gods. Antigone is the only advocate for the god's place in judgement over mankind and her reward is an untimely death. This "order" is beyond human comprehension. Both plays leave a reader or audience morally unsettled. We find Creon morally culpable but are left uneasy by the order established at the conclusion. Perhaps this unsettling effect was at least part of the playwrights' ultimate goal.    Works Cited Anouilh, Jean. Antigone. Rpt. in Masters of Modern Drama. Ed. Haskell M. Block and Robert G. Shedd, New York: Random House, 1962. Sophocles. Antigone. Rpt. in Ten Greek Plays. Ed. L.R. Lind, Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1957.

The Contemporary Issue Of Bullying Education Essay

The modern-day issue I have focused upon in this assignment is Strong-arming. This is a prevailing issue in today ‘s society. I feel this is of great importance particularly with the concerns originating from recent research into the effects of strong-arming. This research indicates that strong-arming can hold societal, physical and psychological effects on pupils every bit good as on their academic success.What is strong-armingBullying is a societal phenomenon that is non easy to specify. It is a behavior that can be either be physical/verbal or direct/indirect. A bully is defined in the dictionary as â€Å" a individual, who hurts, intimidates or persecutes person who is perceived to be different or weaker † . The Government defines strong-arming as ‘Behaviour by an person or group, normally repeated over clip, that deliberately hurts another person or group either physically or emotionally ‘ . Dan Olweus a taking expert in this field has a similar definition to the authoritiess and he asserts that â€Å" A pupil is being bullied or victimized when he or she is exposed, repeatedly and over clip, to negative action on the portion of one or more other pupil ‘ ( Olweus, 1993 p.9 ) The most widely used definition nevertheless is one that is developed by Olweus ( 993 ) and extended by Whitney and Smith ( 1993, p.7 ) : † We say a kid or immature individual is being bullied, or picked on when another kid or immature individual, or a group of kids or immature people, say awful and unpleasant things to him or her. It is besides strong-arming when a kid or a immature individual is hit, kicked, threatened, locked inside a room, sent awful notes, when no- one of all time negotiations to them and things like that. These things can go on often and it is hard for the kid or the immature individual being bullied to support himself or herself. It is besides strong-arming when a kid or immature individual is teased repeatedly in a awful manner. But it is non strong-arming when two kids or immature people of about the same strength have the uneven battle or wrangle † .Different type of strong-armingThe word intimidation is used to depict many diffident types of vi olent or intimidating behavior. Bullying is surely non easy to sort but here are the chief types that have been identified. The first is verbal strong-arming which is the most common intimidation harmonizing to research. Childline reported that 56 per centum of kids that rang about intimidation called about verbal intimidation. This type of strong-arming includes name naming and dish the dirting. Name naming is the most prevailing signifier of strong-arming harmonizing to most surveies. One kid in the Childline research for 2007/08 declared â€Å" I am being bullied at school and experience no 1 likes me. I am ever running to conceal or shout on my ain because I ‘m called names and am pulled at. I feel self-destructive but I wo n't make it † . The 2nd is physical strong-arming which involves the usage of physical force such as striking and forcing. This type of intimidation is considered to be direct because it is deliberately focussed at the victim. In 2007/08 Childline reported that 53 per centum of kids and immature people that called about intimidation reported physical intimidation. It can be identified through physical marks such as bodily harm although physical intimidation does non ever average hurt. Physical intimidation can be a manner of seeking to mortify the victim and show power over them. The 3rd is indirect verbal intimidation and this sort of strong-arming involves hurtful and untruthful remarks behind the victims back. It can include spreading of rumors, letters or notes or even graffitos. The last is Cyber-bullying which is the newest signifier of strong-arming identified and has become a concern in recent old ages. This is a technology-enabled intimidation and involves strong-arming by agencies of confab suites, instant messing, nomadic phones or even electronic mails. Research initiated as a portion of the DCSF cyber-bullying run highlighted that 30 four per centum of 12-15 twelvemonth olds reported being capable to cyber-bullying. Similarly research carried out by Goldsmiths College for the Anti-bullying Alliance found that 20 two per centum of 11-16 twelvemonth olds had fallen victims to cyber-bullying.PrevalenceAssorted surveies have been undertaken on this topic but because of the topics sensitive nature it is difficult to find solid, valid and dependable st atistics. The research being completed nevertheless does foreground the true extent of the intimidation job in the schoolroom scene. Bullying is a modern-day issue with the first national study on this topic being conducted comparatively late. Kidscape ‘s conducted the national study between the old ages of 1984 and 1986 utilizing a sample of 4000 kids ages 5 to 12. The study revealed the extent of the job. The study showed that 68 % of the kids had been bullied at least one time, 39 per centum had been bullied at least twice and 0.5 % of those kids felt it had affected their lives that well that they tried to perpetrate self-destruction. Recent research besides suggests that the job is still outstanding in the school scene. Harmonizing to one recent survey, one-fifth of primary school students and a one-fourth of students in Year 8 perceived intimidation as a ‘big job ‘ in their school. A ulterior study by ChildLine showed that 15 per cent of primary school kids and 12 per cent of secondary school kids said they had bullied in the last twelvemonth ( ChildLine2004 ) . In another survey, 50 per cent of badly bullied male childs said that they bully others, as did 33 per cent of badly bullied misss. Childline the national helpline for kids received between the months of April 2000 to process 2001 about 20,300 calls from kids and immature people concerned about intimidation. Kidscape another helpline believes it receives more that 16,000 calls from parents each twelvemonth concerned about their kids acquiring bullied. Research has besides suggested that Cyber-bullying which is the newest identified signifier of intimidation is going a major job. The figure of Cyber-bullying instances is on the rise ( Noret and Rivers, 2006 ) . A survey by National Centre for Social Research released to co-occur with November 2009 Anti-bullying hebdomad revealed that Cyber-bullying is now one of the commonest signifiers of intimidation in school. The Longitudinal survey tracked 15,000 students who had their fourteenth birthday in 2004. The research besides pointed out that 47 % of 14-year-olds, 41 % of 15-year-olds and 29 % of 16-year-olds reported being bullied. Disabled kids and kids with particular educational demands were besides found to be more likely marks. This coincides with other such research that shows SEN kids or kids with disablements are 2 to 3 times more likely to be bullied ( Smith, 2007 ) The Longitudinal survey besides showed that kids who reported being bullied went on to accomplish on mean 2 GC SE classs lower so kids who were non bullied and were more likely to drop out of instruction at 16. This research is worrying and provides grounds of the damaging effects strong-arming can hold.Effectss of Strong-armingStrong-arming can hold all kinds of effects on kids so it is of import that intimidation is tackled caput on. The DfEE provinces that ‘The emotional hurt caused by strong-arming in whatever signifier – be it racial, or as a consequence of a kid ‘s visual aspect, behavior or particular educational demands, or related to sexual orientation, can prejudice school accomplishment, lead to lateness or hooky, and in utmost instances, terminal with self-destruction. ‘ ( DfEE, 1999: 24-25 ) . Vernon Coaker the schools curate besides asserted at the event for Anti-Bullying Week that â€Å" Bullying, in any signifier, should non be tolerated. It can destruct lives and have a permanent impact on immature people ‘s assurance, self-esteem and emotiona l development. † Research has indicated that strong-arming can non merely consequence academic accomplishment, it has besides been linked with low self-prides, anxiousness, impaired concentration, hooky, depression and self-destructive ideas. Kidscape performed the first of all time study of grownups with the purpose of happening out if intimidation had any permanent effects. The study which was funded by the national lottery and proved that being severely bullied as a kid had knock on affects. 46 % about half of the study population contemplated suicide compared with 7 % of those who were non bullied. Most of the grownups surveyed had small or no aid at the clip of the incidents.Undertaking school intimidationThe Government in recent old ages has emphasised that undertaking the job of intimidation is a chief precedence of theirs. The Government in 1999 said it was a legal duty for all schools to hold an anti intimidation policy in topographic point. Legislation places a responsibility on the caput i nstructor to implement an anti intimidation policy and provinces that schools must promote regard for others and forestall all signifiers of strong-arming among pupils.A Government counsel to boot states that the policy should be reviewed yearly and that every member of the school community ( including kids, immature people, carers and parents ) should be involved in this reappraisal. Each school is in charge of planing their ain policy with the aid from Department for Children, Schools and Families ( DCSF ) . The DCSF aid schools to plan schemes and effectual anti -bullying policy to undertake strong-arming caput on. They do this by supplying really comprehensive counsel paperss and have regional advisors on manus who have expertise in this country to assist implement their counsel. Schools have a legal duty to guarantee steps are in topographic point to turn to intimidation: Head instructors must implement a policy as a preventive step against strong-arming in conformity with the Human Rights Act 1998. The Standards & A ; Frameworks Acts ( 1998 ) states that all schools are required by jurisprudence to hold an anti-bullying policy. Schools have statutory liability sing behaviors of students under the School Standards and Framework Act 1998: ‘the caput teacher shall find steps to be taken with a position to aˆÂ ¦aˆÂ ¦aˆÂ ¦ be promoting good behavior and regard for others on the portion of students and, in peculiar, forestalling all signifiers of strong-arming among students ‘ . Article 28 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child provinces that strong-arming policy should be in topographic point in each school and every kid should cognize what to make if they find them self in the state of affairs where they are being bullied. Section 175 of the Education Act 2002 provinces what is required of the regulating organic structures in relation to the well-being of the students in their school: ‘The regulating organic structure of a kept up school shall do agreements for guaranting that their maps associating to the behavior of the school are exercised with a position to safeguarding and advancing the public assistance of kids who are students at the school. ‘ The Education Act 2002 lays down out two purposes for the national course of study, whereby schools must do certain that it ‘provides chances for all students to larn and accomplish ‘ and ‘promotes the religious, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of students at the school and of society, and prepares students at the school for the chances, duties and experiences of ulterior life ‘ . The DfES handbill, Social Inclusion: Pupil Support Circular lineations authorities outlooks and the legal responsibility of caput instructors with respect to strong-arming The National Health School Guidance asserts that it is necessary that schools have ‘a policy and codification of pattern for undertaking intimidation, which is owned, understood and implemented by all members of the school community and includes contact with external support bureaus ‘ . Under the Race Relations ( Amendment ) Act 2000 schools are required to advance race equality. Children ‘s Act ( 2004 ) sets out five results that professionals should work towards. These are to ; Be Healthy ; Stay Safe ; Enjoy and achieve ; Make a positive part and Achieve economic wellbeing. Safe to Learn: implanting anti-bullying work in schools is the new overarching anti-bullying counsel for schools which was introduced in September 2007. The safe to larn counsel includes advice on intimidation. In add-on to this Ofsted ‘s model for inspecting schools provinces that inspectors must measure and give an history on the magnitude and grade of intimidation, racism and other signifiers of torment. They must besides describe on the schools prosperity at covering with strong-arming incidents and expression at the schools dealingss with parents. Schools are non instantly responsible for strong-arming that takes topographic point outside of the educational scene but their anti-bullying policy should do it cognize that stairss are in consequence to react to such incidents. The Government publicised two anti-bullying counsel paperss on 15 April 2009. These paperss gave advice on how to undertake strong-arming outside of the schoolroom scene. Versions of the counsel paperss were besides for local governments, young person workers, college staff, drama workers, conveyance suppliers and kids ‘s places. Despite all of this there is no jurisprudence which states that Scots schools must hold a specific anti-bullying policy. However there have been paperss such as â€Å" Action Against Bullying † distributed to Scottish schools in 1992 that recommend that they should implement a policy. Scots local governments have approved of this recommendation but it is n't truly plenty.Other available aidEqually good as the statute law and counsel paperss there are other avenues of support and counsel. Schools for one can plight their commitment to undertaking intimidation by subscribing up to the Anti-bullying charter whereby there can self-assess their intimidation policy. An anti-bullying hebdomad is besides held every twelvemonth by the Anti-bullying Alliance The anti strong-arming Alliance was established in July 2002 by NSPCC and NCB, it has combined 68 administrations into one association. Their purpose is to cut down intimidation and make a safe environment for which kids can analyze. Anti strong-arming hebdomads purpose is to raise consciousness of intimidation and the issues that surround it. This twelvemonth ‘s Anti-Bullying Week was focused on undertaking cyber-bullying. Sue Steel, National Manager of the Anti-Bullying Alliance, said on the 2009 anti-bullying hebdomad that: â€Å" It is really encouraging that the Government is making so much to do Anti-Bullying Week a existent success. We all need to work in partnership to guarantee kids, immature people and their parents are cognizant of the hazards of cyber intimidation and cognize how to forestall it † There are besides assorted web sites to assist both parents and grownups such as the DirectGovA web site which has plentifulness of advice for immature people concerned about intimidation. Parentline Plus has a helpline for parents, provides support through the Be Someone to Tell web page and a web site for parental advice on covering with intimidation of their kid. A comprehensive list of administrations that provide both aid and support refering intimidation is available in AnnexA I of the overarching Safe to larn counsel.Developing a whole-school attackThe whole school attack is recommended by the DfES and plants by prosecuting affecting the whole school community from students and instructors to staff, carers and parents. This attack works by affecting everyone and making a model that endorses shared beliefs and values that help to antagonize and cut down strong-arming efficaciously. The model sets out stairss to rede and pull off incidents of intimidation. The DfES recommends es tablishing this whole-school policy in four stages: consciousness and audience, execution, monitoring and rating. The policy should take to: Ensure that the whole school community understands strong-arming and what is meant by strong-arming. Make it apprehensible that strong-arming will non be accepted inside or outside of the school scene. Create an effectual system to cover with strong-arming incidents that enables kids to easy describe strong-arming happenings. Ensure that all incidents reported are investigated earnestly and the steps in topographic point are acted upon in response. That clearly defined processs are in topographic point. Supply a systematic method of entering incidents that take topographic point this in bend can assist in measuring and reexamining policy. Have a equal support programme in topographic point. Continually reappraisal processs and policy and maintain the whole school community informed of any alterations or revamps.Anti-bullying Policy Case StudyIn my little instance survey I looked at 3 anti-bullying policy ‘s for schools in the Surrey country. I would foremost wish to observe that out of the 5 web sites I viewed, two did non hold any anti-bullying policy online. Anti- intimidation policy should be readily available for the school community and should be on-line for easy entree for the whole school community. I will turn to the schools as A, B and C. School A had a really comprehensive Anti-bullying scheme in topographic point utilizing the whole school attack. It clearly defined anti-bullying process in topographic point for kids staff and parents utilizing headers such as ‘guidance for kids ‘ . The Policy included an effectives system clearly saying each phase of process and utilizing the no blasted attack. School A besides asserted that all incidents would be recorded and used in farther instances if needed. The usage of a equal support scheme was besides in topographic point which seems to add to the policies effectiveness as these systems have been found to be effectual in cut downing the negative effects of strong-arming for victims. This policy was said to hold been reviewed in 2009 and was to be reviewed on a regular footing which once more seemed first-class pattern. School A ‘s policy was seemed precise and effectual utilizing the whole school community and in making so advancing a shared set of values and beliefs. The fact it is reviewed on a regular footing makes certainly the policy is fresh and effectual. This school besides had regular newssheets with any new updates on anti-bullying schemes or alterations in policy these were in bend clearly published online. School B ‘s policy had a clear precise definition of strong-arming but nevertheless it was non every bit comprehensive as School A. The policy did demo the process in topographic point and stated the support in topographic point for kids ; it nevertheless was aimed at staff and parents merely and did non affect the whole school community. The policy had clearly non been reviewed in some clip as it was dated May 2005 which is about 5 old ages ago and seemed outdated and forgotten. School C ‘s policy was merely shocking ; it consisted of a paragraph about the definition of intimidation and a list of behavior codifications. It did advance a shared value on the expected codifications of behavior but no set clear procedure in topographic point for covering of strong-arming for staff, kids or parents.Is the authorities ‘s scheme working?There is non much in the manner of research into this field and whether anti- intimidation policy is effectual or non. Bullying has decre ased somewhat since the old twelvemonth which could be a contemplation of the alteration in authorities policy and publicity of equal support but truly it is non a lessening in incidents. I conducted a little graduated table study of 8 learning helpers and instructors in schools around the UK to happen out whether they felt the authorities were making plenty in relation to intimidation.†U.KA authorities is making plenty for schools inA relation to strong-arming † A How make you experience about this statement?A Strongly AgreeA A 0A A 0 % A A AgreeA A 1A A 8 % A A NeutralA A 2A 17 % A A DisagreeA A 5A 42 % A A Strongly DisagreeA A 0A A 0 % A The consequences show that 42 % disagreed with the statement that the authorities was making plenty in relation to intimidation, 17 % were impersonal and 8 % agreed. This study merely indicates that people within the school context experience more can be done to halt intimidation. One participant even stated ‘There are anti strong-arming plans in topographic point at schools but the kids frequently do non come frontward. The Government could work with the schools to do it easier for kids to come frontward. ‘ Bullying UK ‘S CEO, John Carnell was reported stating â€Å" These figures are scandalous and show that the authorities and schools are merely non acquiring to grips with this job. Strong-arming UK was founded 10 old ages ago and the jobs we are seeing now are the same 1s we saw 10 old ages ago. Day in, twenty-four hours out, twelvemonth in, twelvemonth out, we are having precisely the same ailments from despairing parents and kids and it ‘s a dirt that there is no authorities support for the critical work we do which we know saves self-destructive kids ‘s lives. † In the Childline instance notes one counselor asserts â€Å" I do n't believe things have changed, † and â€Å" when you ask the kids whether there are anti-bullying policies the kids say yes, but it still makes you powerless. The frustrating thing is that we still receive so many calls about intimidation †What can schools make to undertake intimidation?Research has proven that the whole school attack is the most effectual scheme and recommended by the DfES. The whole school community should be involved in inventing and implementing an anti-bullying policy. It requires everyone to keep and recommend the criterions in the policy and act quickly when incidents occur. This attack promotes shared values and beliefs and enables a clear apprehension of the acceptable criterions of behavior. In Wales, Lambert, Scourfield, Smalley and Jones ( in imperativeness ) found a important association between lower degrees of intimidation, and students describing that the school had clea r regulations on intimidation. The jurisprudence does province that behavior policy should be publicised to the school community one time a twelvemonth although truly it should be communicated a batch more so this to review heads. Research has indicated that merely holding an anti-bullying policy entirely is non plenty. In order for a policy to be effectual it needs to be expeditiously implemented, reviewed and evaluated invariably. As for case one survey found that school-wide policies decline in effectivity over a 2-3 twelvemonth period, after which clip intimidation additions ( Sharp et al, 2002 ) . Smith states â€Å" Bullying is an on-going job, so a ‘one-off ‘ attempt over a term or a twelvemonth without continuance will hold small or no permanent impact † ( Smith, 2004, p101 ) . Strong-arming policy should be reviewed on a regular basis and the whole school community should be involved in and notified of alterations. Children should hold a say in the policy as suggested by the DCSF. There are guidance paperss such as the Anti-Bullying Alliance resource Are you speaking to me? : Young People ‘s Engagement in Anti-Bullying. It is of import to prosecute kids and integrate their thoughts in the anti-bullying policy leting them to be an active portion of school life. There are a scope of suggested schoolroom activities to promote students to discourse anti-bullying policy. The Government has late made PSHE lessons compulsory and these are a perfect platform for discoursing intimidation and anti-bullying policy. The demand is to hold a comprehensive anti-bullying policy and schemes in topographic point. Not every school has a policy that is comprehensive and covers the extended intimidation types. For illustration, Adams, Cox & A ; Dunstan ( 2004 ) reported that out of 19 schools surveyed in the UK none of them specifically mentioned sexual orientation in the anti-bullying policies.What can the authorities do to undertake intimidation?There are a scope of things the authorities can still make to undertake intimidation. A statuary responsibility should be made on schools and instruction governments in Scotland to hold anti-bullying policy in topographic point. Scots Schools are non lawfully obliged to hold any policy or scheme in topographic point to antagonize strong-arming. Wales should besides hold regional advisers like England to rede schools about the effectual schemes against strong-arming including best pattern and how to make all an effectual anti-bullying policy. The authorities sho uld besides happen a manner of measuring anti-bullying policy in each school as holding this policy in topographic point does non intend it is being implemented decently or carried out in the School context. Finally consciousness should be raised on the newest signifiers of strong-arming such as cyber-bullying this should besides be reflected in relevant policy. PSHE lessons can assist raise this consciousness and I feel strong-arming should go a mandatory subject leting the school to discourse non merely strong-arming in general but their ain anti-bullying policy and pattern.DecisionAfter analyzing the research, articles, statistics and other information it does go evident intimidation has of all time so somewhat demised in the last few old ages but non truly plenty. This tells me that the authorities enterprises and policies have had a little consequence in cut downing intimidation. The large job with the anti-bullying policy is that each school has to invent the policy and implement it, which means the policy ‘s effectivity can run dramatically between each school. If the authorities is to win at checking down on strong-arming significantly I feel it is necessary to make the res earch and implement the same effectual policy in each school. It may be utile for the Government to analyze taking states in the battle against strong-arming. The authorities besides needs to listen to the people that this job effects and happen out their positions on the policy that stands.

Comparison of Conrad’s and Achebe’s Presentation of Africans

Conrad’s Heart of Darkness and Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, both take place in the heart of Africa and center around the idea of colonialism held by the European powers in 19th century. The differences between the two novels are ironically as apparent as â€Å"black† and â€Å"white†. As we begin to think about why Conrad and Achebe have used so different tones on such a similar subject, we feel like we are solving a mystery plot. While reading Heart of Darkness we feel as if we are led through a never ending, dark, damp, gloomy and stinky corridor and the novel ends in an atmosphere which is darker, gloomier and filled with hostile people or maybe creatures. After reading Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, immediately our minds revert to a nearby region in Africa, to Umuofia, and we begin to think whether Nigeria is on the same continent as Congo, and if these dark creatures staring at the boat from the riverbank, are really related to Obierika, or even to the never smiling Okonkwo, who are in our minds sharing palm-wine and breaking kola seeds. Conrad’s and Achebe’s different approach to the themes of â€Å"voice of Africans†, â€Å"presentation of colonizers† and the â€Å"effects of colonialism† distinguish the two works from each other. The voice and presence of Africans differ clearly in two works because Conrad is looking through the perspective of the colonizer and Achebe, from that of the colonized. As stated in the introduction, Conrad has been dreaming of seeing the â€Å"dark continent† since childhood and has managed to go to Congo with the ambition to explore it. Marlow, just like Conrad, has always had the interest in maps and he decides to go to this journey after seeing Congo’s map on a shop window. As Marlow says when he is telling his story, â€Å"It had ceased to be a blank space of delightful mystery- a white patch for a boy to dream gloriously over. It had become a place of darkness,† (p 22) we can realize that the mysterious land he was expecting to see didn’t end up being enjoyable and frightened him. We know that when Conrad first travelled to Congo, he was actually shocked with what he saw; but although he was surprised and horrified, he thought all the savage acts of white men as a part of reality and a necessity to keep this colony functioning. The way he refers to natives as â€Å"black things†, â€Å"criminals† or â€Å"unhappy savages† with no indication of pain in his feelings shows that, as a â€Å"civilized† European who is a stranger to this new land, he convinces himself very easily to the idea that the Africans should be treated as â€Å"savages†. When he sees a young African reclining against a tree with sunken eyes, waiting for his death, it is not his condition that strikes him the most but he is more interested in where he might have found the white thread tied around his neck. Also when he admits to himself that the accountant had â€Å"verily accomplished something difficult† (p 37) by teaching a native woman to do the station tasks, we once again understand that he doesn’t see them as of his equal and in some sense regard them as primitive beings with no intellect. Even if Conrad, as a writer who has become a citizen of Great Britain, one of the leader countries of colonialism, regards all the atrocities in Congo as dark memories, he does not help the African voice to be heard and does not provide any chance for an African to express himself properly, except a native’s words, â€Å"Mistah Kurtz, he dead! † (p 112) On the other hand, Achebe is no stranger to this land. He is in fact one of the dark mysterious figures, watching Marlow's boat, sailing up the river. Naturally he has a very different story to tell. In Heart of Darkness, we are given a surreal view about the Africans. On the contrary, Achebe's success, is presenting them as human beings, with names, no different in characters and in feelings than other people living in any part of the world. Although their customs might sometimes seem inexplicable to us, such as the oracle ordering Ikemefuna to be killed for no reason and villagers following his order, they still carry the same feelings any person would. After Ikemefuna’s death, Okonkwo who has loved him like his own child, cannot taste anything for two days because of his sorrow. Similarly, after Okonkwo is exiled from the clan, Okonkwo’s friends destroy Okonkwo’s barn and hut as part of a tradition with no hatred in their hearts. But later on Obierika, Okonkwo’s best friend who was among those people, questions his friend’s punishment. Even though the Africans presented in Things Fall Apart identify themselves with their culture and have to follow the rules set by their ancestors, they always show the reactions expected from any person. These people share the same concerns, affections and flaws as every â€Å"human being† whereas Conrad, chooses to present them as primitive creatures or rather dark threats. As the boat sails on the river in Heart of Darkness, we are reminded of Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth where in similar dark surroundings, the scientists encounter extinct creatures whereas in Things Fall Apart, we get a chance to observe the richness of the Ibo culture and look at Africans from an objective point of view. The comparison of how the colonizers are presented in two novels portrays clearly the recurring opposition between â€Å"civilization and wilderness†. This time, Conrad, openly displays the sinister intentions of the colonizers, their greed more openly than Achebe. When the reader is told about how experienced agent Kurtz is in collecting ivory, how cruelly the Africans are used as labor force and are forced to work until they become exhausted, wear out and starve to death, it is seen that the so-called â€Å"civilizing† mission of the colonizers is actually destroying the Africans. We understand clearly that the colonizers are after wealth, which in fact does not belong to them. Moreover, in both works, there is the irony about the colonizers, who are supposed to be representing â€Å"civilization† but instead acting way more primitively than the colonized Africans who are considered as â€Å"savages†. In Heart of Darkness, Mr. Kurtz who is admired and even worshipped by the Europeans, is collecting the heads of the natives and performing very brutal actions to acquire his ivory. Company Doctor’s comment stating that any change the men undergo in Congo is internal (p 27), is a foreshadowing to the transition Kurtz goes through in the jungle. â€Å"Wilderness† has changed him; he is no longer a member of a civilized society having lived together with the natives in wilderness. Also, when the Manager claims that Kurtz’s â€Å"methods are unsound† (p 101), we start questioning the accuracy of the Manager’s own methods. The company responsible for extracting ivory is operating under a hierarchy, with many business principles so since Kurtz is a part of this chain, it can be argued that the methods of the colonizers are also as â€Å"unsound† as Kurtz’s. When Marlow agrees with the Manager and says that he sees no method at all in Kurtz’s actions, we can understand how Kurtz, as a colonizer has separated himself from civilized methods. Therefore, there is the contrast in between his reputation as a remarkable agent among colonizers, and his denial to play the game by the rules of a civilized society. On the other hand, the colonizers in Achebe's Things Fall Apart, are given a more humane approach. They, like the natives are described as ordinary people whom you can meet on the street, in your everyday life. Their most apparent feature are their arrogance and in fact their lack of knowledge and understanding. Achebe also emphasizes the irony about Africans turning out to be more civilized than the colonizers in many ways. When there is a confrontation between missionaries and Africans caused by Mr.  Smith, the new intolerant leader of the church, Ajofia’s words, â€Å"We cannot leave the matter in his hands because he does not understand our customs, just as we do not understand his. We say he is foolish because he does not know our ways, and perhaps he says we are foolish because we do not know his,† (p191) show that in fact the villagers are wiser, more mature and more â€Å"civilized† in way of thinking than the colonizers. Africans can accept to be wrong in certain points, whereas the colonizers disregard anything outside their own agenda. Even if Heart of Darkness gives us a better opinion about the cruel and uncivilized characters of the colonizers, Achebe also portrays the destruction of African villages so dramatically that in general, we can say that both works demonstrate the corrupted souls of the colonizers effectively. The destructive effects of colonialism are presented both by Achebe and Conrad, but Conrad does not bring up the criticism of colonizing a country, whereas Achebe underlines its tragic results clearly. At the time Heart of Darkness was published, there were many people in the world who thought that there was nothing wrong with colonialism and in fact it was the right move to take for a powerful country. It was believed by many that the natives were nothing but savages. Therefore, what Conrad says about colonialism, is well ahead of his time, but still the argument of whether he had to go along with the idea of seeing natives as â€Å"dark savages† , is of course questionable. From the beginning of the novel, Conrad shows the suffering caused by colonization through Marlow’s observations. We see natives each having an iron collar on their neck, all connected together by chains, empty paths that were used to belong to villages in which the population had cleared out. All these unpleasant images show the devastating results of colonialism but since Marlow, who experiences these brutalities with his own eyes, does not reach to the conclusion that all these are a result of human greed, it is not possible to say that Conrad’s Heart of Darkness is a direct critique of colonialism. However Achebe, having lived in a colonized country, knows what it feels like to have lived under the command of others. He intentionally emphasizes the presence of a government, besides the church and shows that the white man, does not only want to convert the natives to Christianity or take away their ivory and gold but also wants to rule them. Achebe does not hesitate to show how Okonkwo’s own people, although they might not be from his own clan, have joined the colonizers and are serving them as their messengers. When the messengers tell the villagers that they should pay a fine of two hundred and fifty cowries to release the several arrested men from the clan including Okonkwo, they plan to keep the fifty cowries for themselves and give the rest to the district commissioner who had initially decided on the fine as two hundred cowries. As it is seen, colonialism has not only caused the suffering of many Africans but also it created such a corruption that the people of the same land ended up betraying and fighting against each other. Even if both writers have based their story on the terrible outcomes of colonization, Achebe, as a representative of the African voice emphasizes the moral tragedy that leads to the formation of a chain of never-ending treasons between Africans. Colonization may work for the benefits of the colonizers, but for those who are being colonized, it gives only suffering, death, loss of identities, in short destruction and humiliation. The general attitude displayed by the colonizers, in justifying their actions, is their claims of bringing civilization to savages, faith and order to cannibals, technology or health care to the poor or ignorant. The fact that Heart of Darkness, begins on the river Thames, right in the heart of London, the river described as calm and beautiful, and moves into Congo river, its waters rough, full of dangers, dark, threatening, offering nothing but unexpected and unknown menaces, shows us the exact mentality of the colonizers, as they view Europe and Africa. It is a clear account of how they believe that, their civilization is superior, giving them the right to expand their interests to wherever they see fit. A boat trip on the Congo River, according to them, is a measuring device which will reveal how primitive the Africans are. The further you travel, the degree of primitivism rises. Just as Thames River is the antithesis of Congo River or Africa, with Conrad, Achebe's characters show that the Africans are not subhuman or part of a different species, but are members of the human race with their flaws and virtues. Achebe's last words in Things Fall Apart are â€Å"The Pacification of the Primitive Tribes of the Lower Niger†, the name of the commissioner’s book, is the very cliche colonial powers live by. It is in fact the most tragic ending to these sad stories of shattered lives, erased cultures and a whole continent torn apart, by colonialism.