Saturday, May 16, 2020

Being a Human in the Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

In Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, humans are created by the World State. Also they are conditioned human souls to have a synthetic, dream-like life. In the World State, people are happy. Almost everything is thought of for the World State citizens, and people perform their duties with no complaint since they are designed to fit their job and their social status. From birth or hatching, till they become active in society, all citizens goes through psychological and chemical processing, where many follow the beliefs provided by the World State controllers. Even though the World State citizens are driven to obey their instinctual feelings, which are enforced by the state controllers, people are still cannot escape by their natural human instincts since science is not enough to control the complete society. In this society children are thought to believe and feel whatever the government wants them to believe. In Chapter two begins in Neo-Pavlovian Conditioning Room where the Director of Hatching Centre explains to the student about process of children conditioned stimulus. Infants instinctually condition to dislike books, and flowers by getting electric shock after they seen them. The Director of Hatching Center is clearly indicating that feelings are controlled by the conditioning center by using â€Å"sleep-teaching† and â€Å"hypnopà ¦dia† technique (Huxley 25). Another method of controlling human emotions is to give them drug called â€Å"Soma†(55). Soma keeps everybody in line for theShow MoreRelatedA Brave New World by Aldous Huxley1684 Words   |  7 PagesA perfect society is always an ideal dream of the human mind. Peace, love, and education are intertwining parts of a perfect society or, a utopia. This idea is not always the case in an imperfect world and is usually only a hopeful dream. These types of worlds can greatly be described in detail through the world of science fiction. Aldous Huxley was an English writer who lived during a time when war and chaos were engulfing the world. His works reflect his view and thoughts on a dystopia, whichRead MoreAldous Huxley s Brave New World1334 Words   |  6 Pageso read Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World is to understand the fear for the future during the 1930’s. Widely considered ahead of its time, Brave New World is one of the most influential novels regarding the destructive outcome of genetic and public manipulation through regime control. The story contrasts two worlds: the traditional world where the â€Å"savages† reside and the new World State: a negative utopia where unrestrained sexual freedom, reproductive technology, and mind numbing drugs run rampantRead MoreAldous Huxley : Accomplished Literary Figure1432 Words   |  6 PagesAldous Huxley:Accomp lished Literary Figure â€Å"If one s different, one’s bound to be lonely†-Huxley How the public collectively interacts has been a worldwide subject striking the interest of many. Born in Surrey England, Aldous Huxley was a prominent philosopher who prophesied of a future society and wrote many of the classic novels. He tried his hand in poems, plays,travel works,novels and essays. Aldous Huxley’s best known novel, Brave New World meticulously emphasizes on social topics(Aldous HuxleyRead More The Application of Utopia in Brave New World Essay1190 Words   |  5 PagesApplication of Utopia in Brave New World      Ã‚   Aldous Huxleys Brave New World illustrates the loss of morality when established standards are replaced by amoral criteria.   In his novel, Huxley criticizes the practical applications of Utopia in actual society. Huxleys depiction of love, science, and religion support the ineffectiveness of implementing Utopia in everyday life.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In Brave New World, Huxley shows contempt for the human emotion of love.   TheRead MoreBrave New World Essay1091 Words   |  5 PagesA smart, scholarly and skillful author named Aldous Huxley once said â€Å"Technological progress has merely provided us with more efficient means for going backwards†. The advancement, improvement and the wrong use of technology has affected the world in a really negative way. When technology first started to improve and become more advanced was during the WW1 and WW2, which caused the most destructive wars in human history. For example the wrong use of technology led the Americans to produce one ofRead MoreAnalysis Of Aldous Huxley s Brave New World1420 Words   |  6 PagesMarch 27, 2015 Dystopia Humans have always craved and strived for perfection in all aspects of life. Perfection is defined as â€Å"the highest degree of proficiency, skill or excellence as in some art† according to the Collins English Dictionary(perfection). Many people believe that an excessive effort to become perfect can be counteractive and lead to dysfunctionality. In Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World, characters live in a dystopian society that sprouted from the human yearning for perfection. AlthoughRead MoreBrave New World- Literary Analysis Essay924 Words   |  4 PagesA look into Brave New World Many times there is an underlying topic to a novel and what it truly means. For Brave New World, there are many underlying ideas as to the makeup of Aldous Huxley’s novel. For example, themes like science, sex, power, freedom and confinement, drugs and alcohol, society and class, and dissatisfaction as different themes that Huxley produces in the novel. Also there could be many symbols in the novel including, bottles and Ford. Not only are these themes and symbols throughoutRead MoreA Brave New World by Aldous Huxley664 Words   |  3 Pagestime, 83 years ago. How humans are getting cloned for having diseases, how women were having sex with so many men without them being known as tramps, how people walk the earth with no regrets but now people live and regret. In 1931, people was getting cloned for having diseases, but as time changed its illegal now diseases can be cured. But for the fact being in the future and in the past time has changed and many differences were made. In his Dystopian Society Huxley portrays masses of nichesRead MoreTotalitarianism in Brave New World by Aldous Huxley and Nineteen Eighty-four by George Orwell1270 Words   |  5 Pagesis type of government in which a single person rules. Aldous Huxley and George Orwell are famous authors who opposed totalitarianism, and through their philosophical ideals, attempted to inform people of the dangers faced by society under this restricting system, where people are inhibited from holding any sort of authority. George Orwell, in 1984, discusses concerns relating to big government and big brother and Aldous Huxley, in Brave New World, discusses predatory markets impinging on our personalRead MoreThe Conscious Is At Target1299 Words   |  6 PagesThe Conscious is at Target Brave New World, an eye opening novel for our times. The importance of human conscious is essential to keep our freedom. As â€Å"Brave New World† Aldous Huxley novel a great work which brought every reader to ask to oneself if it will be possible to have that world in our proximity. The novel is so real that you can almost agree that in this writing Huxley had a prediction. His novel in my point of view can differ from many other critiques and I believe it goes hand in hand

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Kill A Mockingbird By Harper Lee - 1567 Words

Racism has been a hot subject for many years. In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, it is the central theme of the novel. When Atticus Finch is asked by Judge Taylor, to defend Tom Robinson, a black man, Atticus accepts and defends Tom to the full extent of the law. Atticus even makes the plaintiff, Mayella Ewell, question how the incident involving herself and Tom Robinson, actually happened. Nevertheless, when Atticus made the case proving that Tom Robinson did not commit the crime he was accused of, a jury of white men all ruled that he was guilty. Furthermore, what does this say about the jury, the defendant, the plaintiff, and the lawyers involved in the trial? Did the jury decide guilty because of the information provided by the lawyers or was it because of the color of Tom Robinson’s skin? When Mayella Ewell is questioned by Atticus Finch during the trial, her story changes several times during the questioning. When Atticus questions Mayella about the night Tom Robinson supposedly beat and raped her, she contradicts herself on multiple occasions. Atticus states when he is questioning her â€Å"You seem sure enough that he choked you. All this time you were fighting back, remember? You kicked and hollered as loud as you could.’ Do you remember him beating you about the face?† (Pg 185). Mayella ponders the statement and then admits that she really couldn’t remember being beaten around the face, but quickly changes to yes, yes Tom Robinson had hit her. Mayella changes herShow MoreRelatedKill A Mockingbird By Harper Lee1049 Words   |  5 PagesTo Kill a Mockingbird: How a Story could be based on True Events in Everyday LifeDaisy GaskinsCoastal Pines Technical Collegeâ€Æ'Harper Lee was born in Monroeville, Alabama. Her father was a former newspaper editor and proprietor, who had served as a state senator and practiced as a lawyer in Monroeville. Also Finch was known as the maiden name of Lee’s mother. With that being said Harper Lee became a writer like her father, but she became a American writer, famous for her race relations novel â€Å"ToRead MoreTo Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee1000 Words   |  4 Pagesworld-wide recognition to the many faces of prejudice is an accomplishment of its own. Author Harper Lee has had the honor to accomplish just that through her novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, a moving and inspirational story about a young girl learning the difference between the good and the bad of the world. In the small town of Monroeville, Alabama, Nelle Harper Lee was born on April 28, 1926. Growing up, Harper Lee had three siblings: two sisters and an older brother. She and her siblings grew up modestlyRead MoreKill A Mockingbird By Harper Lee1290 Words   |  6 PagesHarper Lee published To Kill a Mockingbird during a rough period in American history, also known as the Civil Rights Movement. This plot dives into the social issues faced by African-Americans in the south, like T om Robinson. Lee felt that the unfair treatment towards blacks were persistent, not coming to an end any time in the foreseeable future. This dark movement drove her to publish this novel hopeful that it would encourage the society to realize that the harsh racism must stop. Lee effectivelyRead MoreKill A Mockingbird By Harper Lee873 Words   |  4 PagesIn the book, To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee illustrates that â€Å"it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird† throughout the novel by writing innocent characters that have been harmed by evil. Tom Robinson’s persecution is a symbol for the death of a mockingbird. The hunters shooting the bird would in this case be the Maycomb County folk. Lee sets the time in the story in the early 1950s, when the Great Depression was going on and there was poverty everywhere. The mindset of people back then was that blackRead MoreKill A Mockingbird By Harper Lee963 Words   |  4 Pagesgrowing up, when older characters give advice to children or siblings.Growing up is used frequently in the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Harper Lee uses the theme growing up in To Kill a Mockingbird to change characters opinion, develop characters through their world, and utilizes prejudice to reveal growing up. One major cause growing up is used in To Kill a Mockingbird is to represent a change of opinion. One part growing up was shown in is through the trial in part two of the novelRead MoreKill A Mockingbird By Harper Lee1052 Words   |  5 PagesTo Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee takes place in Maycomb County, Alabama in the late 30s early 40s , after the great depression when poverty and unemployment were widespread throughout the United States. Why is the preconception of racism, discrimination, and antagonism so highly related to some of the characters in this book? People often have a preconceived idea or are biased about one’s decision to live, dress, or talk. Throughout To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee examines the preconceptionRead MoreHarper Lee and to Kill a Mockingbird931 Words   |  4 PagesHarper Lee and her Works Harper Lee knew first hand about the life in the south in the 1930s. She was born in Monroeville, Alabama in 1926 (Castleman 2). Harper Lee was described by one of her friends as Queen of the Tomboys (Castleman 3). Scout Finch, the main character of Lees Novel, To Kill a Mockinbird, was also a tomboy. Many aspects of To Kill a Mockingbird are autobiographical (Castleman 3). Harper Lees parents were Amasa Coleman Lee and Frances Finch Lee. She was the youngestRead MoreKill A Mockingbird By Harper Lee1695 Words   |  7 PagesIn To Kill a Mockingbird Harper Lee presents as a ‘tired old town’ where the inhabitants have ‘nowhere to go’ it is set in the 1930s when prejudices and racism were at a peak. Lee uses Maycomb town to highlight prejudices, racism, poverty and social inequality. In chapter 2 Lee presents the town of Maycomb to be poverty stricken, emphasised through the characterisation of Walter Cunningham. When it is discovered he has no lunch on the first day of school, Scout tries to explain the situation to MissRead MoreKill A Mockingbird By Harper Lee1876 Words   |  8 PagesThough Harper Lee only published two novels, her accomplishments are abundant. Throughout her career Lee claimed: the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, Goodreads Choice Awards Best Fiction, and Quill Award for Audio Book. Lee was also inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters. This honor society is a huge accomplishment and is considered the highest recognition for artistic talent and accomplishment in the United States. Along with these accomplishments, herRead MoreKill A Mockingbird, By Harper Lee1197 Words   |  5 Pagessuch as crops, houses, and land, and money was awfully limited. These conflicts construct Harper Lee’s novel, To Kill a Mocking Bird. In To Kill a Mocking Bird, Lee establishes the concurrence of good and evil, meaning whether people are naturally good or naturally evil. Lee uses symbolism, characterization, and plot to portray the instinctive of good and evil. To Kill a Mocking Bird, a novel by Harper Lee takes place during the 1930s in the Southern United States. The protagonist, Scout Finch,

The New England Women s Gender Roles - 950 Words

1.Historian Nancy Scott focuses on the New England women’s gender roles. A two-fold role, Domesticity and Feminism. A paradox in â€Å"progress† of women’s history in the United States of 1830’s. â€Å"New England women in 1835 endured subordination to men in marriage and society, profound disadvantage in education and in the economy, denial of access to official power in the churches that they populated, and virtual impotence in politics. A married woman had no legal existence apart from her husband’s†. Women had no voting and inheritance rights. Widows and single women with property had to submit to taxation without being represented. In economy they had second-class position. Those who worked earned one-fourth to one-half to men for†¦show more content†¦It also contained within itself the preconditions for organized feminism, by allotting a â€Å"separate† sphere for women and engendering sisterhood within that spher e. It assigned women a â€Å"vocation†, comparable to men’s vocation’s, but also implying in woman’s case, a unique sexual solidarity†. 2.The ideology of southern women’s domesticity developed both out of social and economic changes of late eighteenth century and the first twenty-five years of the nineteenth centuries. White middle-class Americans lives got complex with economic diversity. Men took jobs into factories and businesses, away from homes into new developing cities of the North. This robbed southern women of work like weaving, spinning, make candle, wax and soap etc. From producer they became consumer. They were to create an uplifting home environment for their husband’s return. â€Å"A Cardinal tenet of the ideology of domesticity and what made it attractive to so many white middle-class women held that women were morally superior to men. The ideology of domesticity articulated in the south confirmed for white southerners their regional superiority and the virtues of their racial beliefs and Institutions. This ideology also helped them to articulate the characteristics of the ideal woman†. (Source-2) Southern writer’s repeatedly told women how to behave to guarantee a happy marriage. Women were expected to be not only good wives but also responsible for turning their husbands

College Persuasive Essay Example For Students

College Persuasive Essay College! Why is it such a big deal to go right in to collage! I understand, however I just dont know what I want to do yet. I know I want to do something that has to do with criminal justice. As in the FBI. I just think that would be so cool. It would make me happy and Ill get paid O.K. My plans were to graduate, then stay with my mom for a year and just work 2 jobs, maybe take a class at U.A.A. So, I can keep with the whole study thing. Oh, and I would go into the Air Guard also. They really help with collage. Then a friend and me would get an apartment and split the rent. I would then go to U.A.A for 2 years and after that I would transfer to the University of my Choice. I got all of these ideas from my sister. I look up to my sister a lot. I learn from her experiences. She never took her SATs and she did really badly in high school. But, when she went to U.A.A she got really good grades then she transferred over to N.Y.U. Its the 3rd hardest college to get into for her field! So, you know if she can do it so can I. My father on the other hand! He thinks I should go to Grays Harbor Community College. And if I do, then I can live with him and he will pay for my BOOKS! If you dont know, Grays Harbor is a really bad college, it is worse then U.A.A. Even if I wanted to go, my mom wouldnt let me! I mean come on; he will help me pay for my BOOKS thats a real help. I remember one day I was in the truck with my dad and we were talking about colleges and he said you cant go to a good college like your sister, you just cant. Youre not like her. And, Im sure as hell Im not going to pay that much! I told him I dont expect him to pay for anything. My sister went through college without her dads help, so I can do it to. Every time I try and talk to him about the university that Im interested in or when I tell him I want to be in the law or psychology field, he just changes the subject! He makes me so mad. Also, whenever I bring up any thing to do with collage he gives me this huge big guilt trip! Mom on the other hand, she gives me space to think of what I want. She is happy if Im happy. I know I will go to college no mater what. I know I might have to pay for college my self and thats fine by me! I dont need my dads help. My mom on the other hand, helped Eva as much as she could. Evas  school cost $34,000 a year and thats what my mom makes in a yea r. So you do the math. I learned from my sister! Loans, grants, scholarships, apply for ALL of them! Even the little scholarships. They ALL add up. My counselor makes me feel like I have to go strait into my university right after I graduate. She really wants me to take my SATs. I guess I will, but if I do, then Im going to take them as many times as I can. I want to be able to choose the best score and if there good enough then I will send them to colleges. My mom says I dont have to take them and that makes me feel a little better. Im just really worried that Im not going to do well. I like my SAT class. I really do. The part that I like the most is the tests that tell me what I would be good at. It reassures me. But thats all I really like about it. Other than that I feel like Im being rushed. Like I need to be in a big hurry. .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c , .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c .postImageUrl , .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c , .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c:hover , .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c:visited , .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c:active { border:0!important; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c:active , .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u8b7614f86e7b82a7e6727d1bd0bcbe2c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Bread Givers EssayIm really in no rush to graduate. I know that sounds really weird but hay its a free education. I have been here since I was in 7th grade. I feel really comfortable here! For a long time all I could think about was getting out of high school. Now all I think about are the things Im going to miss. In college theres not going to be a lounge were all of you friend are going to be siting and conversing. A place where you can find out all the latest news. There isnt going to be any thing like that. What I really hope is that there is going to be a good teacher that I can talk to. That is one thing I really like about Steller. If you have a problem, the teacher and your counselor are going to listen. They really care. Im afraid that at my university there just not going to have time for me.

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

CCH Australia Limited

Question: Discuss about the CCH Australia Limited. Answer: Introduction: Residential status for income tax purpose implies the country of which the taxpayer would be deemed to be resident for computing the taxable income of a particular financial year. The residential status for tax purposes is a crucial aspect because the determination of the taxable income depends upon the residential status of the taxpayer (Income Tax management, 2016). In other words, it could be said that the incidence of tax is determined according to the residential status of the taxpayer. The government of Australia prescribes the rules and regulations to determine the residential status of the taxpayers (Prince, 2013). The important thing about the residential status that one should keep in mind is that it is determined for each financial year separately. Thus, a person who is resident of Australia for one financial year may not be so for another financial year. Further, it is also to be noted that the residential status as per taxation rules is not linked with the citizenship, w hich means that a person, who is not a citizen of Australia may be resident of Australia for tax purposes (Prince, 2013). The Income Tax Assessment Act (ITAA) 1936 of Australia contains the crucial provisions and rules that guide in determining the residential status of a taxpayer. In Australia, the taxation ruling 98/17 describes the procedure to determine the tax residency status of individuals coming to Australia Taxation (Ruling TR 98/17, 2016). Further, section 6 of ITAA 1936 provides the conceptual foundation to the taxation authorities so as to enable them to formulate rules and regulations in regard to determine the residential status (Commonwealth Consolidated Acts, 2016). In addition to this, the judicial pronouncements made by the courts are also referred to resolve the critical issues coming across in determining the residential status. As per the Australian taxation regime, an individual is tested for residential purpose basically on two parameters such as domicile and period of stay. These are formally known as domicile test and 183 days test, additionally, there is another test of residency known as superannuation test (Ruling TR 98/17, 2016). As per domicile test, the people ordinarily residing in Australia are automatically declared as resident for tax purpose. Thus, the people ordinarily residing in Australia do not need to satisfy any other condition to be declared as resident. The 183 days test is based on the period of stay of the individuals entering Australia from other countries. Thus, as per this test, if the individuals coming from other country stay in Australia for a period of 183 days or more, he/she may be regarded as resident of Australia. The third test of residency that is the superannuation test prescribes explicitly that the Australian government employees, who have been posted outside Austral ia, will automatically be deemed as resident (Ruling TR 98/17, 2016). However, in regard to the above discussed tests of residency, it is essential to bear in mind that none of these tests is decisive in itself. This implies that the residential status of an individual can not be determined based on any one of the tests of residency, rather, all the tests to be considered along with the other conditions such as behavior of the individual. The behavior of individual during the stay in Australia is of immense importance in determining the residential status (Ruling TR 98/17, 2016). There are some crucial facts and circumstances that are to be considered in evaluating the behavior of an individual to adjudge whether that individual is a resident or not. Those facts and circumstances include but are not limited to intention and purpose of stay, family, business and employment. Moreover, the maintenance and location of the assets of the concerned individual are also to be given consideration in deciding the residential status. Further, the authorities can a lso give regard to the social and living arrangements of the concerned individual for such purposes (Ruling TR 98/17, 2016). Referring to the context developed above and the other applicable provisions of the ITAA 1936, the residential status of Juliette for the financial year 2014-15 and 2015-16 has been determined as under: Residential Status of Juliette for the Income Year 2014-15 Juliette, ordinarily residing in the UK, has been approached by an Australian management company for performing a role of choreographer in a dance show. For this purpose, Juliette has entered into a contract of two years with the Australian management company. As Juliette is not ordinarily residing in Australia, thus, the domicile test of residency is not applicable to her. Further, the superannuation test of residency also does not apply in case of Juliette as she is not an employee of the Australian government. In this situation, the residential status of Juliette is to be determined by applying the 183 days test. For this purpose, month wise computation of the days of stay of Juliette for the financial year 2014-15 is given as under: Financial Year: 2014-15 Month Feb Mar April May June Total Days 28 0 0 31 30 89 The total period of stay of Juliette for the financial year 2014-15 comes to 89 days, which is lower than the statutory requirement of 183 days. However, from the rigorous reading of the rules and provisions in regard to residential status, it has been observed that an individual coming to Australia may be regarded as resident even if the period of stay is less than 183 days in a particular financial year (Exfin, 2016). For this purpose, it is crucial to consider the behavior and the intention of the person to migrate to Australia to live permanently. However, in income year 2014-15, there has not been observed any of the circumstances that indicate the intention of Juliette to migrate to Australia to live permanently. Therefore, considering the fact that the period of stay of Juliette is less than 183 days and that no intention to live permanently exists, it has been articulated that Juliette is not resident of Australia for income tax purposes for the financial year 2014-15. Residential Status of Juliette for the Income Year 2015-16 The computation of the number of days for the Income year 2015-16 in respect of Juliette is shown below: Income Year: 2015-16 Month July August Sep Oct April May June Total Days 31 31 30 16 16 31 30 185 It can be observed that Juliette stayed for a period of 185 days in Australia in the income year 2015-16, which is greater than the statutory limit of 183 days. Further, she came back in Australia in April with the intention to live permanently with her husband. Therefore, considering these facts, Juliette should be deemed as resident of Australia for the income year 2015-16 (PWC, 2016). Rental Property Statement Amount ($) A. Rental Income 13,900.00 B. Less: Rental Deductions Agent Commission 695.00 Replacing the damaged fibro roof with longer lasting colorbond Nil General repairs and maintenance 6,000.00 Repainting the front fence which consists of painted wooden pickets 2,500.00 Fixing the broken front door which was damaged by vandals 1,000.00 Total 10,195.00 C. Less: Deduction for Decline in the Value of Assets Stove ($900/12) 75.00 Hot water service ($2000/12) 166.67 Carpets (3500/10) 350.00 Furniture and fittings (5000/13.33)+(1200/13.33*.5) 420.23 Total 1,011.90 D. Capital works deduction Replacing the damaged fibro roof with longer lasting colorbond ($15000*2.5%*0.50) 187.50 Net Rental Income or Loss (A-B-C-D) 2,505.60 The rental property statement shown in the requirement Q2 (a) above depicts that the net rental income of the tax payer is $2,505.60, which implies that the taxpayer would have to pay the taxes on this income (Australian Taxation Office, 2016). Rental property statement is basically divided into three parts such as rental income, rental expenses, and deduction for the decline in the value of assets and capital works deductions. Rental income is the amount of rent received by the owner from the tenants in compensation of the use of such property. Further, the rental income also includes the other indirect incomes that accrue to the owner in connection with letting out the property such as advertisement income. In the present case, the rental income only comprises the rent received by the owner from the tenants, which amounts to $13,900.00 for the entire financial year 2015-16. The next part of the rental property statement is the rental expense. The rental expenses are further sub-divided into three parts such as expenses allowable in the same year, expenses allowable in the form of deduction for decline in the value of assets over the number of years, and the expenses not allowable at all. The expenses that are allowable in the year of incurrence includes the expenses of revenue natures related directly to the property, for example, repair and maintenance, advertisement, agents commission, cleaning, insurance, and property taxes (Australian Taxation Office, 2016). In order to claim these expenses, it is to be ensured that these expenses are borne by the owner and related directly to the letting business. Further, in respect of repair and maintenance expense, it should be ensured that these are not of capital nature. In case the repairs are of capital nature, these are to be capitalized and allowed over the number of years in the form of capital works deductions (Australian Taxation Office, 2016). In the present case, expense on general repairs, repainting the front fence, and fixing the broken door have been claimed immediately. However, the expense on replacing the damaged fibro roof has been considered to be of capital nature because this expense is expected to benefit for many years. As per the rental property guidelines issued by the Australian Taxation Office, the expenses incurred on building constructions and major repairs to the buildings are allowed as deduction for capital works at the rate of 2.5% or 4%. The rate of 4% is applied to the specified rental properties such industrial units and commercial complexes, while, for others the deduction can be claimed at the rate of 2.5% (Australian Taxation Office, 2016). Thus, an amount of $15,000 incurred on replacing the damaged fibro roof has been capitalized and claimed as capital works deductions at the rate of 2.5% considering that the property does not fall under the specified categories eligible for higher deduction of 4%. Further, this deduction is allowable proportionately if the constructed or repaired property was used not for full year. In the current case, the replacement of roof was made in December 2015, thus, only 50% of the deduction has been claimed. Further, apart from the cost of acquisition, there some other expenses, which are also not allowed to be deducted from the rental income. These expenses include expenses not actually incurred by the owner of the property, for example, tenants may bear the expenses of water and electricity use. In addition to this, the expenses of personal nature, which have no nexus with the rental income, are also not allowed as deduction. The expenses incurred by the owner before buying the property such as inspection of the property and travelling costs are also not allowed (Australian Taxation Office, 2016). Therefore, while computing the rental income changeable to tax, it should be kept in mind by the taxpayer that the above discussed expenses are not deducted. Another category of rental expenses is the deduction in the form of decline in the value of depreciable assets (Australian Taxation Office, 2016). These are the expenses such as purchase of furniture and fittings, carpets, water service machine, and other assets that are used by the tenants along with the use of building. The deduction for decline in the value of assets is allowed either on prime cost or diminishing value method (Australian Taxation Office, 2016). In the present case, the owner has applied prime cost method in computing the decline in the value of assets. The total value claimed as decline in the value of assets amounts to $1011.90, which comprises of $75 on stove, $166.67 on hot water service, $350 on carpets, and $420.23 on furniture and fittings. In this regard, it is important to note that the deduction is allowed in proportion to the days that asset is held by the owner in the subjected income year (Australian Taxation Office, 2016). Therefore, the deduction on the additions amounting to $1200 made to the furniture and fittings in the month of December 2015 have been allowed to the extent of 50 percent only. In determining the deduction for decline in the value of assets, it is crucial that the effective life of assets estimated correctly (CCH Australia Limited, 2011). The Australian Taxation Office has framed general guidelines to assist the taxpayers in determination of the effective life of the assets. As per these guidelines, in determination of the effective life of an asset, the considerations are to be given to the wear and tear of the asset. The expected quantum wear and tear of the asset will be a decisive factor in estimating the effective life. In this connection, it is assumed that the asset will be maintained properly and it will be kept in a good condition over the number of years (CCH Australia Limited, 2011). In regard to the rental income, certain other facts are also crucial to remember, for example, co-ownership of rental property. In case of co-ownership of rental property, the income and expense gets divided having regard to the legal interest of each co-owner (Compton, 2012). The guidelines framed by the Australian Taxation office in regard to apportionment of the income and expense in case of co-ownership overrides any private agreement between the co-owners. Thus, even if the co-owners agree on some other ratio to proportionate the income and expense, the apportionment will be made only on the basis of legal interest in the property (Compton, 2012). References Australian Taxation Office. (2016). Deduction for decline in value of depreciating assets. Retrieved August 12, 2016, from https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals/income-and deductions/in-detail/investments,-including-rental-properties/rental-property-expenses/?page=3#Deduction_for_decline_in_value_of_depreciating_assets. Australian Taxation Office. (2016). Expenses you can claim. Retrieved August 12, 2016, from https://www.ato.gov.au/General/Property/Residential-rental-properties/Expenses-you-can-claim/. Australian Taxation Office. (2016). Guide for rental property owners. Retrieved August 12, 2016, from https://www.ato.gov.au/uploadedFiles/Content/MEI/downloads/Rental-properties-2016.pdf. Australian Taxation Office. (2016). Income tax: residency status of individuals entering Australia: Ruling TR 98/17. Retrieved August 11, 2016, from https://law.ato.gov.au/atolaw/view.htm?Docid=TXR/TR9817/NAT/ATO/00001 Australian Taxation Office. (2016). Rental Property Expense. Retrieved August 12, 2016, from https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals/income-and-deductions/in-detail/investments,-including-rental-properties/rental-property-expenses/?page=3. Australian Taxation Office. (2016). Worksheet. Retrieved August 12, 2016, from https://www.ato.gov.au/Forms/Rental-properties-2014-15/?page=11. CCH Australia Limited. (2011). Australian master tax guide 2011. CCH Australia Limited. Commonwealth Consolidated Acts. (2016). Income tax assessment act 1936 - sect 6. Retrieved August 11, 2016, from https://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/itaa1936240/s6.html. Compton, T. (2012). Rental property and taxation: an Australian investor's guide. John Wiley Sons. Exfin. (2016). Australian tax residency guidelines. Retrieved August 11, 2016, from https://www.exfin.com/australian-tax-residency. Income Tax management. (2016). Introduction and meaning of residential status under the income tax. Retrieved August 11, 2016, from https://incometaxmanagement.com/Pages/Tax-Ready-Reckoner/Residential-Status/Meaning-of-Residential-Status.html. Prince, J.B. (2013). Tax for Australians for dummies. John Wiley Sons. PWC. (2016). Taxation of International Assignees Country Australia. Retrieved August 11, 2016, from https://www.pwc.com/us/en/hr-international-assignment-services/assets/australia-folio.pdf.

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Internet Addiction an Escape from Reality Essay Example

Internet Addiction: an Escape from Reality Essay Internet Addiction: An Escape from Reality With the creation of an online world comes the creation of new problems. The great network system known as the Internet has allowed for huge advances in the world, while creating very serious issues as well. Perhaps one of the most common of these negative issues is Internet Addiction Disorder, or IAD. Doctors Aviv Weinstein and Michel Lejoyeux define Internet addiction as being â€Å"characterized by excessive or poorly controlled preoccupations, urges or behaviors regarding Internet use that lead to impairment or distress (Weinstein Lejoyeux, 2010). One of the reasons this disorder is so prevalent, is the fact that it encompasses a large number of online activities which can lead to it. For example, one of the most common causes of this disorder is pornography addiction. This can often lead to other problems, such as negative marital relationships or sexual addiction. Other addictions caused by or related to IAD include gambling addictio n, gaming addiction, online relationships, overuse of social networking, and others. Currently, Internet addiction is not a medically recognized disorder, so diagnosis can often be difficult. This is because it is often unknown whether Internet addiction is being caused by something else. Many medical professionals believe that Internet addiction should be considered a bonafide disorder, but arguments over causality have prevented it from being recognized as a stand-alone condition (Weinstein Lejoyeux, 2010). Regardless of the way it is perceived, Internet addiction has obvious negative effects on the people experiencing it, but treatment is possible. Since the disorder is not officially recognized, diagnosis is often subjective. However, an article in a 2010 issue of the journal Addiction proposes a diagnostic criteria for IAD. Based on clinical experience and surveys, eight primary symptoms of IAD were determined. These symptoms are shown in the following list, taken from Addiction: 1. Preoccupation: a strong desire for the internet. Thinking about previous online activity or anticipation of the next online session. Internet use is the dominant activity in daily life 2. Withdrawal: manifested by a dysphoric mood, anxiety, irritability and boredom after several days without internet activity 3. We will write a custom essay sample on Internet Addiction: an Escape from Reality specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Internet Addiction: an Escape from Reality specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Internet Addiction: an Escape from Reality specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Tolerance: marked increase in internet use required to achieve satisfaction 4. Difficult to control: persistent desire and/or unsuccessful attempts to control, cut back or discontinue internet useful 5. Disregard of harmful consequences: continued excessive use of internet despite knowledge of having persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problems likely to have been caused or exacerbated by internet use 6. Social communications and interests are lost: loss of interests, previous hobbies, entertainment as a direct result of, and with the exception of, internet use 7. Alleviation of negative emotions: uses the internet to escape or relieve a dysphoric mood (e. g. feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety) 8. Hiding from friends and relatives: deception of actual costs/time of internet involvement to family members, therapist and others The article within the journal details a study involving this diagnosis criteria. 408 patients were admitted to a hospital for pathological Internet use determined by the aforementioned symptoms. One year after being released from the hospital the patients were re-examined, and the vast majority no longer met the criteria for IAD. However, IAD remained prevalent in a very small number of patients, most of whom suffered from another psychotic disorder such as personality disorder or schizophrenia (Tao, Huang, Wang, Zhang, Zhang, Li, 2010). With this study in mind, it becomes hard to deny that IAD is an actual condition. However, it is often difficult to determine whether someone is truly suffering from IAD. The previous list of symptoms was determined by a group of medical professionals in China, and this criteria may change depending on where subjects are being tested. For example, criteria for diagnosis may be different in the United States compared to European or Asian countries. There are many test and questionnaires available to take to determine if IAD may be present in an individual, the most commonly used being Youngs Internet Addiction Scale, abbreviated IAT. Others include the Chen Internet Addiction Scale (CIAS), Compulsive Internet Use Scale (CIUS), and the Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire (PIUQ). These tests attempt to determine symptoms of Internet addiction and their relation to psychological and social health. These tests, however, are not always accurate. Problems that can occur with any test or questionnaire come into play when using this method, such as dishonesty, misunderstanding the question, or poorly worded questions. One of the criticisms of these tests is that some questions do not relate to addiction, and therefore should not be used in the determination of IAD. It often becomes difficult to determine what Internet addiction truly is in these cases, as an individual may exhibit addictive behavior towards one specific activity (i. . pornography, gaming) and not any others (Weinstein Lejoyeux, 2010). The fact that IAD encompasses these different addictions, such as pornography addiction, gaming addiction, social networking addiction, etc. , gives more fuel to the argument that IAD may not be a stand-alone disorder, but rather a general term to describe one or more of these. However, simple web surfing often evolves into an addictive behavior which is recognized under IAD, and thi s activity can only be classified under IAD. Though sharing similarities with what we may consider typical addictions, such as drug and alcohol addiction, IAD is actually quite different in that it takes place entirely within the mind. Physical problems can arise out of IAD, but the disorder itself does not include actual physical addiction. The question of why IAD occurs then arises. Like any other addiction, certain people may be predisposed to experience IAD. For example, many dispositions for addiction are genetic, others are born out of childhood trauma. If a person is predisposed, or likely to develop addiction (regardless of what kind), the chance of IAD is present. The chance for addiction relies entirely on the person and a combination of stressors. If the stressors trigger at a specific time in a persons life, while the activity is occurring, the behavior may become addictive. In this case, if the Internet is being used as a release when the stressors trigger, online activity may increase which, in turn, has the chance to evolve into IAD (Ferris, 1996). IAD shares similarities with other addictions, especially on a behavioral level. The Internet, in this case, becomes an escape, or a way to alter ones mood by rejecting the real world. The Internet allows the individual to experience a temporary high, in a sense, by allowing reinforcement for desired and often unnatural for the person experiencing it. For example, a person who is shy may exhibit a very extraverted personality on the Internet in order to meet others. They are able to become someone different, possibly with traits they wish they had themselves. This experience is often very rewarding for these individuals, as they may be accepted online in ways they are not in real life. This can lead to overuse of the Internet, which can lead to IAD, in which the individual always wants to be online, or experience life as their online self constantly (Duran, 2003). This phenomenon of identifying with an online personality exists heavily within the areas of online gaming addiction and online dating. Online gaming addiction, when related to IAD, usually involves games known as Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games, or MMORPGs. Within these kinds of games, players create a character which will exist in an online world, which often shares very major similarities with the real world. For example, MMORPGs such as World of Warcraft, Rift, and EVE Online all boast their own in-game economic system involving banks, stores, and other financial services. Players can interact with each other, chat, and complete quests together, among other things. The relationships experienced in these online worlds often take the place of relationships in the real world, which can cause the individual to become anti-social. The identification of an individual with an in-game character is definitely a large factor in gaming addiction. MMOPRGs usually allow for a character to constantly progress, and this progress almost never yields a real world reward, only in-game. For someone experiencing IAD, this can cause them to lose touch with reality, in a sense. This can cause in-game excitement as well as in-game frustration to be exhibited as real world emotion (Smahel, Blinka, Ledabyl, 2008). Other MMORPGs, such as Second Life, focus more on the player to player relationships than the aspect of gameplay. Rather than presenting the player with quests to complete or objectives to accomplish, Second Life introduces the player to a virtual world where almost anything can occur, just as it would in real life. Players create and customize an avatar, and are then plunged into what is literally a virtual life, which they can live in any way they see fit. This can include attending school in the game, getting married, buying a house, and having a job and going to work. The similarities with reality are much more prevalent and noticeable than in games like World of Warcraft. One of the major links between Second Life and the real world is the fact that Second Life often requires you to use real money to buy in-game items. For persons experiencing IAD, this can become a major problem. The fact that real money can be transferred between individuals in this virtual world adds a very addictive factor to the game that other MMORPGs do not exhibit. Not only can you spend money, you can also make it. This causes many people to become extremely absorbed in their literal â€Å"second life† on the Internet, which allows for very addictive behavior (Suler, 2007) This ability to essentially become whoever you want online plays a role in online dating as well. The aspect of anonymity empowers many individuals to do or say things online they would not feel comfortable with in real life. The anonymous nature of many online relationships can become addicting for many people because of this. Cyberpsychologist Mark Griffiths comments on this, stating â€Å"People behave differently online. Work on online relationships has shown that people fall in love more quickly than they do offline. Theres the strangers on a train effect – people feel anonymous, which is disinhibiting. This, plus the fact that the Internet is constantly available, makes IAD a very real possibility for individuals in these situations. Griffiths also comments on online gambling, though he believes that the true addiction here is solely gambling, and that the behavior would most likely occur offline as well. Internet addiction involves actions that only take place online, such as chatroom addiction and online gaming addiction. For the gambler, the Internet simply intensifies the addiction which is already taking place (Newman, 2008). IAD, like any other dangerous addictive behavior, can lead to many other disorders and negative behaviors. One of the most common negative aspects of IAD is its effect on personal relationships. Studies have shown that many people who are timid, have poor social skills, or already experience anxiety within interpersonal relationships may be attracted to relationships on the Internet. It is also believed that almost every addiction can be traced back to problems during an individuals childhood. In a 2007 article in the journal CyberPsychology Behavior, parent-child relationships are discussed as being correlated to IAD. In short, negative parent-child relationships beginning at a young age often evolve into negative interpersonal relationships as the child gets older. These negative interpersonal relationships can then lead directly to Internet addiction, but other times move on to social anxiety in the real world before leading to Internet addiction. The following graph illustrates this theory: Conversely, we can assume that positive parent-child relationships most often lead to more successful interpersonal relationships after adolescence. Individuals are, therefore, less likely to experience social anxiety and develop addictions such as IAD. As individuals progress through adolescence and early adulthood, the effects of past and current negative relationships may become more apparent. Many studies have found that university students often exhibit high levels of social anxiety, and may use the Internet as a way to escape their psychological fears in the real world. These students are more likely to develop online relationships, whether platonic or romantic, due to the anonymity it allows. Suler, who has studied IAD and online relationships in Second Life, and Young, who developed the Internet Addiction Scale, are professionals on IAD that have concluded that addiction to the Internet is a reaction to poor adaptation in the real world (Liu Kuo, 2007). Emotional abuse and physical abuse have been shown to be risk factors of IAD as well. A 2009 study surveyed 3769 students through an anonymous questionnaire, which included questions from Youngs Internet Addiction Scale, among others. Of these, 81. % showed a presence of emotional abuse, and 55. 1% showed a presence of physical abuse. The study concluded that moderate and severe physical abuse may be risk factors of IAD (Zhang, Hao, Yang, Zhang, Sun, Hu, Ye, Tao, 2008). Despite the amount of research and information available on IAD, there are still plenty of researchers and medical professionals who do not consider IAD to be an accepted form of addiction or disorder. Most professionals recognize an addiction or disorde r once it is published by the American Psychiatric Association in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, otherwise known as the DSM. One broad definition of IAD is â€Å"the inability of individuals to control their internet use, resulting in marked distress and/or functional impairment in daily life. † A large number of professionals accept this, and conclude that IAD seems to be on par with other disorders, and is comparable to other addictions, such as drug or alcohol addiction. Even symptoms of tolerance and withdrawal have been observed in individuals with IAD, very similar to individuals with a drug addiction. Dysphoric mood, irritability, anxiety, anger, and aggression have all been documented behaviors by those suffering from IAD and experiencing Internet withdrawal. However, the same physiological symptoms of drug withdrawal have not been documented in cases of Internet withdrawal. Professionals therefore cannot say that Internet withdrawal is comparable to drug withdrawal, because data has not yet presented to prove that the same nervous functions occur in Internet withdrawal, which would stipulate that true withdrawal was occurring. The same can be said for tolerance. No data has been presented to prove that an increase in intensity and frequency of Internet use generates tolerance in the same way certain drugs do. It is, therefore, assumed that withdrawal and tolerance, in the context of IAD, are figurative terms, or being used to best describe a patients symptoms. The fact that there is no true diagnosis for IAD calls into question whether it can be considered a disorder at all. Most patients diagnosed with IAD have some other form of disorder already present. In a study using Youngs Internet Addiction Scale, JH Ha found that of twelve adolescents experiencing IAD, three were suffering from a major depressive disorder, one was suffering from schizophrenia, and another suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder. The fact that other disorders such as these arise so often makes it difficult to determine the causality of IAD. This also gives strength to the argument that IAD may simply be a symptom or sign of some other mental or personality disorder (Pies, 2009) Regardless of whether IAD is medically recognized by professionals, treatment is available for those experiencing IAD. The main approach to treatment of IAD is an intervention process, similar to an intervention involving drug addiction. Currently there are no other evidence-based medical treatments for IAD. Also, studies show that behavior therapy has also been successful in treating patients with IAD. Self help books and family therapy sessions are also option which may prove successful. In some cases, banning the individual from computer or Internet access entirely may be the best option (Weinstein Lejoyeux, 2010). Though the subject is much debated, its obvious that the Internet allows various psychological issues to manifest. IAD may not yet be considered a disorder on par with other addictions, but the dangers to health, social relationships, and self esteem that occur from IAD remain as very serious problems which need to be addressed. Like any addiction or disorder, IAD need to be recognized in its early stages, and steps towards prevention need to be taken. As cases of IAD continue to surface, research into causality, symptoms, prevention, and treatment will bring forth more concrete evidence in favor of or in opposition to the determination of IAD as a recognized disorder. For now, we can remain uncertain as to what causes IAD, whether it be negative childhood relationships, low self esteem, or intense social anxiety. We can, however, be sure that the technological advances involving the Internet will continue to produce a shockingly large number of negative effects on the psychological and social aspects of the human mind. Works Cited Duran, M. (2003). Internet addiction disorder. AllPsych Journal, Retrieved from http://allpsych. com/journal/internetaddiction. html Ferris, J. (1997). Internet addiction disorder: Causes, symptoms,and consequences. Unpublished, Psychology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia. Retrieved from http://www. files. chem. vt. edu/chem-dept/dessy/honors/papers/ferris. html Liu, C. , Kuo, F. (2007). A study of internet addiction through the lens of the interpersonal theory. CyberPsychology Behavior, 10(6), 799-804. Newman, M. (2008, August 28). Modem love. Times Higher Education, (1860), 20. Pies, R. (2009). Should dsm-v designate â€Å"internet addiction† a mental disorder?. Psychiatry, 6(2), 31-37. Retrieved from http://www. ncbi. nlm. nih. gov/pmc/articles/PMC2719452/ Smahel, D. , Blinka, L. , Ledabyl, O. (2008). Playing mmorpgs: Connections between addiction and identifying with a character. CyberPsychology Behavior, 11(6), 715-718. Suler, J. (2007). Second life, second chance. Retrieved from http://users. rider. edu/~suler/psycyber/secondlife. html Tao, R. , Huang, X. , Wang, J. , Zhang, H. , Zhang, Y. , Li, M. (2010). Proposed diagnostic criteria for internet addiction. Addiction, 105(3), 556-564. Weinstein, A. , Lejoyeux, M. (2010). Internet addiction or excessive internet use. The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, 36(5), 277-283. Zhang, Z. , Hao, J. , Yang, L. , Zhang, X. , Sun, Y. , Hu , C. , Ye, D. , Tao, F. U. S. National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2009). The relationship between emotional, physical abuse and internet addiction disorder among middle school students. Retrieved from website: http://www. ncbi. nlm. nih. gov/pubmed/19565867

Friday, March 13, 2020

Inspiring vs. Inspirational

Inspiring vs. Inspirational Inspiring vs. Inspirational Inspiring vs. Inspirational By Maeve Maddox A reader asks, What is the difference between inspiring and inspirational? Some speakers see no difference. Here, for example, in a headline and the text that follows it, the two words are used interchangeably to refer to the same speech: Headline Carina â€Å"La Reina† Moreno Gives Inspirational Speech to Late Graduating Students in Her Community of Watsonville California Text The ceremony took place at the Mello Center in Watsonville, California, where Moreno gave an inspiring speech, congratulating all the students on their accomplishment, struggle and dedication to get their diploma. Both words, inspiring and inspirational, derive from the verb to inspire. The Latin original, inspirare, means, â€Å"to blow or breathe into.† In some contexts, inspire has religious or spiritual connotations. For example, in ancient mythology, the Muses were goddesses who inspired learning and the arts. They breathed ideas into the minds of students, poets, and artists. In Jerome’s Latin translation of the Bible, from which numerous English translations have been made, the verb inspirare is used literally in Genesis: God is described as having breathed (inspiravit) the breath of life into the nostrils of his human creation. Likewise in 1 Peter 1:21, inspirati is used to explain the source of the revelations given to the prophets: â€Å"For prophecy came not by the will of man at any time: but the holy men of God spoke, inspired by the Holy Ghost.† In a Google search, inspiring receives twice as many hits as inspirational, which seems to be more common in religious and spiritual contexts. According to one definition, â€Å"an inspirational speaker†Ã‚  is â€Å"one who addresses audiences with the aim of inspiring the listeners to higher values or engendering understanding about life and themselves.† In the business sphere, inspiring and inspirational often seem to conflate with motivational: Help your attendees shake off the winter doldrums and get motivated at work with a rousing keynote from one of these  inspirational speakers.   Inspirational speakers  bring a refreshing message of hope and encouragement, and can rejuvenate audience members, boosting morale and injecting optimism. To be inspiring or inspirational, a speech, speaker, or book must stir a listener or reader emotionally. A speaker may intend to inspire an audience to work harder or to sell more widgets, but intentions don’t always produce results. Motivational may be the better choice in some contexts. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Misused Words category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:The Meaning of "To a T"50 Synonyms for "Assistant"Especially vs. Specially