Social Control

 

Question One

Social Control is how human behavior is regulated within society. This is accomplished through means such as rules, accepted norms, laws, and other structures of society. This practice aims to maintain social order. Social control is grouped into two: formal and informal. Formal social control is enforced by government structures put in place such as the police, federal agencies, and city authorities among others. These organs of the state ensure that the Law is strictly adhered to. Failure to this, punishment and correctional measures established by law are applied by formal institutions such as the Judiciary against the law-breaker (Mears et al. 217). Besides the rule of law, there are norms and values of a society that have been learned through socialization. These are regulated through informal social control and enforced by family, caregivers, friends, colleagues, and also teachers at school (Felson 120). For instance, hard work will be praised while laziness will be disapproved. In this case, hard work has been embraced as a virtue in society and is hence encouraged and rewarded. Some of the ways that social control has affected my life include my beliefs impacted through religion, my principles, following the law, and enjoying peace. Growing up, I was introduced to a set of beliefs based on religion. These were enforced through social control hence I still practice them up to date. I am a well-principled person due to social control. Also, I am a law-abiding citizen and most importantly, I enjoy living in a peaceful and orderly country due to social control.

Question Two

Deviance is when accepted social behavior is violated. Through social control, a certain code of conduct is stipulated and everyone is expected to adhere (Bogdan and Taylor 34). However, there are cases where certain individuals may go against such code. This calls for the correction of such behavior. The question of who decides what is deviant or not depends on whether it is a case of formal or informal social control. The government, for instance, has set a comprehensive set of laws to guide on the accepted behavior in the case of formal social control (Selznick 79). Informally, society has certain norms and values which dictate how members of that society conduct themselves. However, there are many cases where both institutions set a similar code of conduct. For example, the government forbids the killing of people, and so does society. There are a few cases where I have taken part in acts of deviance, including at home and in school. Through various types of punishment such as grounding and detention respectively, I learned that such acts were unacceptable hence deviant.

Question Three

The government shutdown is a result of a lack of funding legislature known as the appropriations bill leading to the closure of many federal operations. Government shutdowns occur when there are disagreements by the parties passing the legislature. For instance, the 2018/2019 shutdown was as a result of disagreements between President Donald Trump and the Congress. In such a case, Congress is deviant by refusing to pass the funding legislature. This is done to show that they do not support a certain activity by the president. For instance, in the recent shutdown, Congress was not in support of funding for the US-Mexico border wall. In a similar case in 2013, the republicans were against the affordable care act proposed by President Barrack Obama. Such deviance is not without casualties. Federal employees are furloughed and go without salaries for the period of shutdown. Citizens are also affected as they are denied some of the federal serviced offered by the paralyzed institutions. The government is also impacted as it loses a lot of revenue which can run into billions of dollars (Bendersky 164).

Question Four

Different sociologists view deviance in varying perspectives. One of these is the functionalist viewpoint. In this case, deviance is viewed in terms of what function it plays in society. Sociologists who prescribe to this school of thought believe that deviance is essential in society by defining behavior as acceptable or deviant. This classification then acts as a basis of social integration and solidarity. Structural functionalists further state through solidarity, behavior marked as deviant may eventually become acceptable in the wider society (Nichols 157). A good example of this is homosexuality.

Sociologists who prescribe to conflict theories view deviance in terms of its cause. In this case, deviance results as a result of inequalities that exist within society resulting in conflict. A good example that supports the conflict perspective is the fact that youths from poor and disadvantaged backgrounds tend to commit more crime compared to those from rich backgrounds. To suppress such deviance, the government puts in place institutions such as the police force, courts and correctional systems (McCaghy et al. 93).

Finally, interactionists view deviance as learned behavior resulting from social interactions. Through association with deviant people, a person learns the attitudes and techniques for similar behavior. This explains why a person who hangs around criminals is likely to participate in a crime. Interactionists do not believe that deviance is in-born, rather learned and practiced for personal gain (Smetana and Onderco 516).

 Works Cited

Bendersky, Corinne. “Resolving ideological conflicts by affirming opponents’ status: The Tea Party, Obamacare, and the 2013 government shutdown.” Journal of Experimental Social Psychology 53 (2014): 163-168.

Bogdan, Robert, and Steven Taylor. “Toward a sociology of acceptance: The other side of the study of deviance.” Social Policy 18.2 (1987): 34-39.

Felson, Marcus. “Linking criminal choices, routine activities, informal control, and criminal outcomes.” The reasoning criminal. Routledge, 2017. 119-128.

McCaghy, Charles H., et al. “Why Is Certain Behavior Deviant?.” Deviant Behavior. Routledge, 2016. 91-116.

Mears, Daniel P., et al. “Culture and formal social control: The effect of the code of the street on police and court decision-making.” Justice Quarterly 34.2 (2017): 217-247.

Nichols, Lawrence T. “Editor’s Introduction: Constructionism as Interpretive Tradition and as Emergent Deviance in Sociology.” The American Sociologist 50.2 (2019): 155-159.

Selznick, Philip. “Legal institutions and social controls.” Vand. L. Rev. 17 (1963): 79.

Smetana, Michal, and Michal Onderco. “Bringing the outsiders in: an interactionist perspective on deviance and normative change in international politics.” Cambridge Review of International Affairs 31.6 (2018): 516-536.

Exploring the Catholic Theological Tradition

Exploring the Catholic Theological Tradition

Section One

The different meditation experiences evoked feelings of empathy within me. For instance, in my first meditating occasion on verses 13-17, I could relate to the anxiety that the two disciples were experiencing and the uncertainty about the future. I could not help but think about times when things were very uncertain in my life. Verses 18-21 teach us that the disciples had put all their hope in Jesus as their redeemer, but now he had been killed ((New International Bible, Luke 24. 18-21).  While meditating on this part, I could remember numerous times when I felt hopeless.

I learned several lessons from meditating. Normally, it is likely to read verses like any other story. However, meditating allowed me to see the story of the two disciples in a different light and much clearer. It helped me think deeply about the scripture and how it impacts my life. I have also realized that it differed from the other type of meditation commonly practiced in yoga, which I have tried several times to relax. Unlike the yoga meditation, this time my objective was not only to relax but also to learn and relate deeply with the scripture.

Meditating upon this scripture has impacted positively on my life. I feel more spiritually nourished and better connected to the Holy Spirit. It is also comforting to know that despite those hopeless and anxious moments, Jesus will be in the midst of it all. Although there are numerous scriptures that one can meditate upon, Luke 24: 13-35 is suitable because it depicts one of the most important occasions in Christianity: the rising of Jesus Christ. It also contains several teachings that helped me meditate upon my life, such as the issues of hope, anxiety, difficulties in life, and matters of faith. Before meditation, I viewed these verses as just one of the several times Jesus appeared to his disciples after rising from the dead. After the practice, however, I now understand that Jesus’ aim was not only to appear to these two disciples, but also to impact teaching in them, and all of us. The scripture, therefore, acted as a guide in my meditation enabling me to reflect deeply upon my life. For instance picturing the two journeying to Emmaus saddened, anxious and hopeless enabled me to meditate upon a time when I was in a similar situation (Luke 24.13-21).

Loyola Marymount University offers many serene sites suitable for reflection. I chose to perform the practice at different locations including the Fountains on Shea Terrace and the Sacred Heart Chapel. The sound of water at the fountains masks other disruptive sounds that could have hindered my meditation. Additionally, the plants at the sites helped maintain that calm state for even deeper meditation. The other place of meditation, the Chapel, offered a very suitable environment due to its sacred nature. However, I experienced a few cases of distractions as a few activities went on within the premises, but these were minimal. Given these merits, if I had to do the practice again, I would still choose these venues. Regarding the time of meditation, I decided to do some of the occasions in the morning and the rest in the late afternoon. I believe that both times of the day had something unique to offer. The morning hours offered a freshness of the mind, while the late afternoon offered the golden sunset hour which also enabled me to meditate deeply.

Section Two

Some of the foremost theological issues in my mind include the preservation of the gospel in an ever-increasing secular world and the church’s stand on matters of marriage, sexuality, and gender. Regarding the preservation of the gospel, I feel that there are so many issues that threaten the exclusivity of the gospel. We live in a digital age where information of all kinds, which in most cases is secular, is readily available. Also, the church is threatened by greed which hinders the spread of the gospel and goes against the Bible.

The matter of marriage, sexuality, and gender is of deep concern. On one side is the bible which is our guide and is supreme hence cannot be challenged. On the other, is a changing contemporary society that faces emerging issues that might not have been acknowledged during the writing of the scriptures. Balancing these two aspects is a huge challenge for the issue. However, I believe that an amicable solution can be arrived at. Aside from that, if I had the opportunity to study catholic theology further, I would be interested in undertaking Christology to understand better the works and nature of Jesus Christ.

Word Count: 777 words

Work Cited

The Bible. New International Version. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1984.

 

Staffing problems

 

Staffing

Problem One

The best place to look for potential assistant project managers in the organization is within the active project team. In my evaluation process, I would consider the team members and functional employees for promotion. Once I have identified potential candidates, the right interview questions would be administered to them. These include an evaluation of the personal characteristics of the candidate such as persuasiveness, flexibility, and adaptability. Also, questions regarding the leadership skills and qualities possessed would be asked. Some of the leadership qualities I would be looking for are Judgment, positive thinking, Integrity, decisiveness, and determination. Leadership skills to watch out for are communication skills, diplomacy skills, integrative, and negotiation skills among several others. Also, an assessment of the interviewees’ project management skills such as entrepreneurship, organization, and planning would be included.

It is possible to find candidates who are qualified to be promoted vertically rather than horizontally, especially given the fact that the assistant project manager position is senior.

Problem Two & Three

All three strategies offer advantages as well as disadvantages. Offering the employee a pay and grade raise allows the employee to feel trusted with the project management position. However, in case she does not perform, the process of demoting her might be inconveniencing to the project. This is a likely scenario because she does not feel the pressure to perform. The second method of hiring involves a transfer of the employee without any salary or grade increase. Although there is a promise of these increments once the employee proves capable, the person might feel that they are doing more work for less pay hence a lack of motivation. Also, this method offers a fallback plan to the original position of work. Although this is an advantage to the employee in case of non-performance, it might lead to relaxation in the discharge of their duties. The third method of offering a small increase in salary or grade with future additional awards upon great performance is the best option. The employee is motivated by the small increases in the present and also future awards. Also, the management does not have to bother with demotions upon non-performance since the terms are clear from the beginning.

Samples of job application letters

Blizzard Entertainment, Inc.
Attn: Julie Farbaniec
16215 Alton Pkwy
Irvine, CA 92618
United States

October 8, 2019

Dear Ms. Julie,

I have always loved gaming, hence my passion for designing games. I believe that gaming allows one to not only relax, but also to enter a world of fantasy with endless capabilities. These are factors that have contributed to a united gaming community across the globe. My passion for designing games goes way back to my childhood. Back then, the games I played presented challenges but lacked in adventure. As such, I would always imagine how a certain game could be made better and adventurous. It is then that I decided that when I grew up I would dedicate myself to designing games that would offer fantastic experiences.
I am well trained in game design aspects having had a strong academic background. Furthermore, I possess great imagination and creativity which is crucial to game design. Gradually, I have learned to share ideas with other people, having being involved in numerous team-building exercises. I am well aware that game designing requires combined team effort to create an epic gaming adventure.
My dedication to designing mind-blowing games is unquestionable. My goal is to not only design a game, but also offer an experience. I believe that this aligns with the company’s mission to create the most epic entertainment experiences. I am confident that I will fit in with the company as I am always ready to learn something new and work with the team. The eight core values of the company are already ingrained within me and I will use them as my guide in my activities and decision-making.
I believe that gaming is one of the best entertainments across the globe. Working with Blizzard Entertainment will enable me live my dream of designing the most entertaining games for all the players. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Much appreciation

 

 

 

BiliBili
Attn: Bob Zhu
3 Guozheng Center
Shanghai, China

October 8, 2019

Dear Mr. Bob,

The subculture of Animations, Comic, and Games (ACG) has always fascinated me. ACG-themed games are fun to play and also offer great adventure based on an elaborate storyline. These are factors that attracted me to the world of gaming designers. My passion can be traced back to when I was very young. I would follow many issues of Japanese comics, having being fascinated by the story lines and the creative art. It did not come as a surprise then that I grew to love ACG-themed games. I, therefore, grew with the dream of one day being in a team that would design an eccentric, adventure-filled game.
As part of designing training, I undertook both theoretical and practical approaches to games designing. I have engaged in numerous teamwork projects aimed at designing games. I believe that this has equipped me adequately with the skills needed. In addition, I am familiar with the cultural aspects that connect with the youths, which I am ready to incorporate within my work.
I wish to inspire other youths as I was inspired. I believe that this goal is aligned with the company’s mission to enrich the lives of young generations. This is possible through design of games and content that the youth can enjoy and also emotionally connect with it. I also look forward to growing with the company and contribute to its growth.
Undoubtedly, designing great games enriches the youths’ life. Such a platform facilitates better interactions and a better future for the world. Working with your company will enable me make this great contribution to society and also build a strong and meaningful career in game designing. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Much appreciation

 

 

 

Valve Corporation
10900 NE 4th Street
Bellevue, WA 98009
United States

October 8, 2019

To Whom It May Concern,

I believe that gaming makes the world a better place. In addition to offering fun-filled adventures, gaming provides a platform where people across the globe can interact through multi-player interfaces. Also, it is a tool that unites people with a common interest hence the widespread gaming community. These are some of the benefits of gaming which have built my passion for designing games. Growing up, I witnessed how games united my peers and I. We always looked forward to new challenges and adventures. As an adult, my passion for gaming only increased, motivating me to be a game designer. It is a dream-come-true that finally, I have a chance to be part of a team that will design many more great games.
I have an elaborate academic background in game designing. The skills which I have acquired through several internships will also come in handy in my work accomplishment. I have also engaged in numerous co-curricular activities which have built my team-building skills.
I identify as a trend- setter and game changer in my game design skills. I believe that this is one of my qualities which fit in with the company’s goal of designing games. Your company has already released many game titles which changed the world and I hope to be part of the team which will continue this movement.
The company has a great reputation in the gaming industry. I hope to continue this legacy by providing my game designing skills to make the most entertaining games throughout the world. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Much appreciation

Informatics in Public Health

In this writing assignment, you will write a one- to two-page paper in which you describe how informatics is used in public health. In addition, you will explain how informatics relates to evidence-based practice.

Step 1 Identify a recent public health concern related to health promotion or disease prevention.

Determine how informatics can be used to identify this concern, provide evidence-based care, and evaluate this public health concern.

Step 2 Analyze the public health concern. Include responses to the following questions as you write your paper:

· Describe the recent public health concern.

· How could informatics be used to locate evidence related to this health concern?

· If you chose to research this topic of interest, how could informatics assist you?

· How could informatics be used to improve patient outcomes or even prevent the public health concern you identified?

 

Cite sources in APA format