Should Immigration Be Limited? Essay -- essays research papers

Immigration: limited or unlimited?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On the subject of immigration, one student at J.E.B. Stuart High School in Falls Church, Virginia commented, â€Å"we make America more interesting† (Swerdlow 61). As true as these words are, the question of how much more interest should be allowed to cross our borders each year, and what exactly defines an American these days puzzle the already 281 million residents who find comfort in the freedoms of America. America is a land of immigrants, also referred to as the â€Å"melting pot of the world.† However, the possibility that America’s kettle is over-flowing concerns its citizens and some politicians.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ideas for capping immigration have been voiced in the past, but have not been heard. While some will argue legal immigration should have no restrictions, most Americans will agree illegal immigration is indeed a problem. With some 6 million people living in America illegally, and only 46, 750 deportations last year, a solution must take hold soon (Zarembo 26). President George W. Bush has been working on a plan to reform immigration that could make millions of undocumented workers legal. Bush may only open the application for legal residency to Mexicans, but nothing will be final for at least another year. As a result of negotiations, mayhem has broken out on Capitol Hill, with politicians pulling fiercely on both sides. Some believe this will trigger more ill...

Raging Achilles: Achiles’ Tragic Flaw

In the Iliad, Homer’s character Achilles embodies many of the characteristics of a hero including strength, quickness, leadership, and particularly, courage. During the Trojan War, Achilles battles courageously, destroying and killing every man in his path without any sign of fear or retreat. No Achaean questions his abilities nor do they doubt his bravery; they cite him as one of their greatest warriors without whom they would have lost the war. However, according to Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, Achilles does not exemplify a man with true courage at all due to one simple character flaw. Ironically, this acute flaw is mentioned in the first line of the Iliad: his spirited temper. According to Aristotle, a spirited temper prevents heroic men, like Achilles, from attaining a true courage because it alters the intentions behind their actions. Closer analysis of Achilles’ spirited temper and its consequences illustrates that by Aristotle’s definition, Achilles does not possess true courage, but merely a resemblance of it. Aristotle begins his argument by classifying a spirited temper as a quality similar to courage, claiming that anger propels a man to confront his fears. Aristotle states â€Å"nothing makes a man as ready to encounter dangers as a spirited temper† (3. 8. 1116b. 27), implying that a courageous man must be spirited. However, despite these claims, Aristotle counters, stating that possessing a spirited temper does not necessarily mean one automatically acquires true courage. He asserts that while a spirited temper can provide a truly courageous man (one with noble intentions) with support, a spirited temper can also deter a man from being truly courageous by altering his motives and incentives. Since a spirited temper lends to anger and passion, these often replace reason and knowledge as the incentive behind the actions of courageous men, such as in the case of Achilles. These emotions then result in a variety of consequences for the owner, including blindness due to anger, a likeness to beasts, and an obsession with revenge. A close examination of Achilles and his actions reveals how his spirited temper changes his motivation, and consequently inhibits him from being truly courageous in an Aristotelian sense. The basis of a spirited temper is anger, which Aristotle both praises and criticizes. On one hand, anger overcomes fear and gives man the courage to face his fears. However, anger can also influence man’s ability to think and dominate his motivations and desires. Thus, anger can catapult man to commit actions not out of courage, but out of passion. For example, in the Iliad, Achilles’ anger transcends his ability to reason and consequently impels him to engage in battle with the river god Scamander after being insulted. Even after almost being killed by the river, Achilles anger prevents him from leaving the river and so, he â€Å"[surges] on†¦with high hurdling strides, charging against the river† (21. 42-343). Aristotle states that anger must be experienced under the â€Å"right circumstances and with the right people, and also in the right manner, at the right time, and for the right length of time† (4. 5. 1125b. 32-34). In Achilles’ case, he exhibits none of these. Achilles directs his anger for Hector towards the wrong targ et, the river. In addition, he holds onto his anger longer than he should and simultaneously risks his life. According to Aristotle, Achilles is therefore short-tempered and does not possess a true courage. His anger overtakes his reasoning abilities, driving him to commit undesirable acts and leaving him without noble intentions. Achilles’ anger also affects his perceived physical state of being and further alters his motives by fueling his desires for revenge. In Aristotle’s argument, he explains that men provoked by spirited tempers are comparable to beasts and therefore not courageous. In the Illiad, Homer often describes Achilles analogous to an animal. During the battle, Achilles is depicted as â€Å"rearing like some lion† (20. 94) and â€Å"thundering on, on like oxen broad in the brow† (20. 560). These descriptions illustrate a lack of restraint and semblance to a wild beast, thus further supporting the argument that Achilles is not in fact courageous. Aristotle states that â€Å"wild beasts are motivated by pain†¦thus they are not courageous, because they are spurred by†¦a roused temper to rush into danger†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (3. 8. 1116b. 33-3 6). Achilles epitomizes this Aristotelian idea by acting in response to a base emotion: anger. Rather than being motivated by reason or knowledge, Achilles allows his anger to stimulate him. Consequently, this anger causes Achilles to lose parts of his humanity and bringing him closer to his animalistic base, which is further reflected in descriptions of his actions. Homer describes how â€Å"Achilles charged, wild, hurtling toward [Aeneas], loosing a savage cry† (20. 327). Not only does this portray a baser, less human side of Achilles, but it also supports Aristotle’s idea that those who rush into danger blinded by their anger do not foresee the perils in store. In this case, despite Aeneas’ inferiority in ability, he is able to take this opportunity of momentary blindness to attack Achilles. This example illustrates Aristotle’s argument that Achilles’ spirited temper makes him similar to nothing more than a wild beast lacking true courage. Aristotle’s definition of courage also states that revenge as motivation corrupts true courage and leaves only a resemblance of courage. Achilles exemplifies a man who allows anger to fuel his desire for vengeance to distort his natural courage and purpose, leaving only a likeness of courage. Homer describes explicitly that Achilles’ motivation to enter the battle lies in his desire for revenge. Upon learning of Patroclus’ death, Achilles immediately declares that he will enter the battle. Achilles proclaims, â€Å"Despite my anguish I will beat it down, the fury mounting inside me, down by force. But now I’ll go and meet that murderer head-on, that Hector who destroyed the dearest life I know† (Homer 18. 134-138). After having obstinately refused to enter the battle despite the promises of riches and glory, Achilles allows his desire for revenge to propel him into battle almost instantaneously. In fact, as the battle progresses, Achilles’ desire for revenge begins to resemble an obsession. He refuses to release his anger towards Hector, stating his desire for revenge even halfway through the battle. Achilles says, â€Å"But now, Patroclus†¦I shall not bury you, no, not till I drag back here the gear and head of Hector, who slaughtered you† (Homer 17. 387-390). This quote illustrates Achilles’ complete fixation with revenge. Thus, according to Aristotle, he no longer acts through courage, but through obsession. While it is arguable that Achilles’ lack of fear of death makes him courageous, his basic motivations, revenge and anger, again prevent him from being truly courageous in the Aristotelian sense. Throughout the Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle states man’s incentive as the defining aspect in which to characterize man. In Achilles’ case, his anger-fueled obsession with revenge motivates and supports his ability to fight; therefore, according to Aristotle, Achilles is â€Å"not guided by reason, but by emotion† (3. 8. 1117a. 8). Aristotle further explains that while revenge gives men support and pleasure, it does not imply courage. Aristotle states, â€Å"Although those who fight for this motive are good fighters, they are not courageous, for it is not the incentive of what is noble that makes them fight† (Aristotle 3. 7. 117a. 5). Aristotle concludes his argument by stating that when choice and true purpose guide a spirited temper, a man becomes truly courageous. Achilles, however, motivated by anger and revenge, does not resemble this truly courageous man. While Achilles does not fit this definition, he does nevertheless seem to have some form of cour age arisen from his spirited temper. Aristotle defines this type of courage as a â€Å"natural courage. † Thus, Achilles does not possess true courage, but rather a natural courage governed by his base emotions.

Essay about Learning Disability Dyslexia - 2685 Words

Learning Disability Dyslexia Whether we graduate from highschool or college we all hope to find a challenging career that will propel us forward in todays society. For those suffering from dyslexia this only adds to the frustration and fears associated with seeking employment. Many adults with dyslexia or other forms of learning disabilities never disclose their disability in interviews or once employed for fear of being discriminated against. Several investigators have noted, however, that many persons with learning disabilities adjust well to the demands and complexities of adulthood. (Greenbaum et al. 1996). The basic cause of dyslexia is still not known, however, much research is being done to determine the problems underlying†¦show more content†¦Dyslexia is not the result of low intelligence nor is the problem solely intelligence. An unexpected gap exists between learning aptitude and achievement in school. Dyslexia is not truly a visual or auditory problem, but a language problem. Dyslexia result s from differences in the structure and function of the brain. People with dyslexia are unique; each having individual strengths and weaknesses. Many dyslexics are creative and have unusual talents in areas such as art, athletics, architecture, graphics, electronics, mechanics, drama, music, engineering, and medical professions. Dyslexics often show special talent in areas that require visual, spatial, and motor integration. Their problems in language processing distinguish them as a group. This means that the dyslexic has problems translating language to thought (as in listening or reading) or thought to language (as in writing or speaking). After looking at what dyslexia means and some characteristics of this disability now lets look at a study of learning disabilities in the workplace. Research by Greenbaum, Graham, and Scales (1996) adults with learning disabilities in the work place indicate that most adults adjust well to the demands and complexities of adulthood. The purpose of this study was to identify occupational and social status of adults with learning disabilities once after college. This study was conducted at theShow MoreRelatedDyslexia Is A Learning Disability989 Words   |  4 PagesDyslexia is a learning disability in which people have difficulty reading, writing, and even in subjects such a math and music. In my case, I found that subjects such as reading and writing were harder for me compared to other kids my age. I was half way through my fourth grade year when I was diagnosed with dyslexia. While at first this was something I hated about myself. Now being dyslexic is something that makes me who I am today, and this is something I should never be ashamed of. 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These most commonly causes problems with math known as dyscalculia, one of the most common reading disabilities is dyslexia, and problems with writing which is known as dysgraphia. It is very important to remember that having a disability does not mean a person is less capable, it just means thatRead MoreMy Reading On Reading Disabilities, And The Impact That They Have On Students Education1741 Words   |  7 Pages I wanted to learn more about reading disabilities, and the impact that they have on students’ education. I was lucky that my reading problems did not impact my education, and I was able to read very well. Reading is one of the most important skills that students learn in school. Being able to reading is paramount to student’s success throughout school and life. It is estimated that 10% to 15% of school aged children have some form of a reading disability. Reading is a complex task involving decodingRead MorePresentation And Discussion Of Data Essay1630 Words   |  7 Pagesof â€Å"Data† Dyslexia is more prevalent in society than this author even knew prior to conducting this research. According to Austin Learning Solutions, 1 in 10 Americans are dyslexic in some capacity. Public opinion about dyslexia has perhaps kept many from seeking help, as 80% of Americans associate dyslexia with some form of retardation. (Austin, 2015) However negatively our society might look at dyslexics, no particular community is less vulnerable to dyslexia than any other. Learning Inside-OutRead MoreThank You, Mr. Falker By Patricia Placco830 Words   |  4 Pagesyou that† (Abadiano, 2001, p.41). This is an excerpt from the book Thank You, Mr. Falker by Patricia Placco. This book is an autobiography about a girl with dyslexia. Everyone told her she was dumb and could not learn – except Mr. Falker. Only he took the time to teach her to read and she went on to become a children’s author. Dyslexia, a common name for reading disorders, is common among students, and unfortunately many have similar experiences to Ms. Placco. How many of these children couldRead MoreAnalysis Of Can t Rad 1669 Words   |  7 Pages Dyslexia Ricky Smith Liberty University Dyslexia is a learning disability that many children have but are misunderstood until they have actually been diagnosed with the learning disability. Dyslexia does not mean that children are not smart; it just means that they learn different. This is why it is sometimes for parents to understand why their children are not doing well in school and struggle sometimes with a simple task of reading a book. My book report is about a 280 page book