Philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 14

Philosophy - Essay Example Socrates states that if a man is in a position that he deems as the best, when placed by his leader, then such a man has to face danger willingly without any thoughts of death crossing in his mind. In Socrates’ arguments, it would be dreadful if a man did not face danger as he should have in the eyes of god and men due to his fear of death. No one is sure of whether death brings blessings to a man or if it is the root of evil (Plato 33). People fear it with the assumption that it is the greatest of evils yet there is no proof. Therefore, Socrates views himself as a wise man than the rest because he has no fear for what is unknown to man especially the underworld. However, he stresses of the fact that despite his claim to be wiser than other people, he still believes that it is wicked to disobey god or his human superiors. In Meno and Socrates’ argument, Socrates informs Meno of what he heard in regard to divine matters. He indicates that he heard it from the wise women and women who were priestesses and priests. His thought on their talk was that it was beautiful and truthful in all aspects. The wise men and women gave this talk on divine intervention based on what they practiced on a daily basis. The wise men and women indicated that the soul is usually immortal but comes to an end at one time when an individual dies (Plato 33). The wise men and women called it dying though the soul is regarded to be still alive. Since the soul never dies with the body, the individual has to lead a life that is pious. The doctrine of recollection can change Meno’s paradox if he understands that in the process of the soul learning a lot when an individual is not dead can also become energetic in the search for answers. Yes, the two are arguing about an issue that exists even in this modern-day society. Most people today have various questions related to death and life after death. There are so many myths that

Role of Multi-Detector CT in Paranasal Sinuses

Role of Multi-Detector CT in Paranasal Sinuses SUMMARY OF THESIS Name of speciality : Radio-diagnosis Name of System : Head and Neck Title of Thesis and : Role of Multi-Detector Computed Tomography in Paranasal Sinuses  Pathology, 2015. Lakshmi Kumar Chalamarla Name of Supervisor : Dr. Kavita Kapoor, Consultant Imaging, Batra Hospital and  Medical Research Centre, New Delhi. Hospital/Institute : Batra Hospital and Medical Research  Centre, New Delhi-110062. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To characterize pathologies of paranasal sinuses on MDCT and to delineate their anatomical location, extension and bony involvement. To correlate the multi detector computed tomography findings with clinical/surgical/histopathological/ microbiological findings. MATERIAL AND METHODS STUDY AREA: The study was conducted at the Department of Radio-diagnosis and Imaging in collaboration with the Department of ENT, Department of Pathology, and Department of Microbiology, Batra Hospital and Medical Research Centre. Other departments are collaborated for acquiring cases, and follow up of patients to correlate clinically or histopathologically or microbiologically. STUDY POPULATION: 100 patients were included in our study mostly urban population. Patients belonged to both OPD and IPD cases. The study comprised of 65 males and 35 females. The number of male patients were higher than the female patients. There were 15 patients in 0 20 years age group, 36 patients in 21 40 years age group, 37 in 41 60 years age group and 12 were greater than 60 years. The age group of patients ranged from minimum of 9 months to maximum of 81 years. The highest number of patients were in 41 60 years age group. SAMPLE SIZE: 100 patients referred for evaluation of sinus complaints were enrolled in the study after fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria and taking written/verbal informed consent from July 2013 to April 2015. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Patients with complaints like headache/nasal obstruction/discharge/hyposmia /swelling over cheek and with clinically suspected paranasal sinuses lesions referred for MDCT PNS evaluation. EXCLUSION CRITERIA: Acute sinonasal inflammatory disease. Previous evidence of sinonasal surgery. All cases of trauma. SAMPLE SIZE CALCULATION: (Ref.: Methods in biostatistics, Dr. B. K. Mahajan, 7th edition, pg. 85) For calculation of sample size Mahajans allowable error formula was applied. N = 4pq/e2 Where p = % of population = Target population/Total populationÃâ€"100 q = 1-p e = 20% of p As per CT room register over last 3 years Minimum no. of MDCT PNS cases at our hospital/month = 20 Maximum no. of MDCT PNS cases coming under exclusion criteria/month = 5 So, Minimum no. of MDCT PNS cases at our hospital/year = 240 Maximum no. of cases coming under exclusion criteria/year = 60 So, p = 180/240Ãâ€"100 = 75 q = 25 e = 20% of p = 15 N = 4Ãâ€"75Ãâ€"25/152 = 33. The minimum sample size thus calculated should be 33. STUDY DESIGN: Observational study. CT PNS of the patients was evaluated for the cause of sinus complaints. Causes deduced from CT PNS were correlated with clinical/histopathological/surgical/ microbiological findings. ETHICAL ISSUES: The study was conducted after necessary approval from the Institutional review board and ethics committee. MDCT is a non-invasive modality. All safety and screening measures were undertaken as per the American College of Radiology practice guidelines for performing Computed Tomography. INSTRUMENTATION: Light VCT 64 slice MDCT of GE radical system with advanced workstation 4.3 GE. Protocol followed for MDCT PNS: 1. Scout : Lateral kV : 120 mA : 10 Scout Plane : 900 2. Axial Images kV : 120 mA : 120 Start/End : 0 to 74.3 Total Exposure Time : 5.4 sec Gantry tilt : 0 Interval : 0.625 mm Slice thickness : 0.625 mm Helical Scan Rotation Time : 0.6 sec Rotation Length : Full Pitch and Speed : 0.531:1 10.62 mm/rotation Detector Coverage : 20 mm PROFORMA Unique ID No: HISTORY: Presenting Complaints: Nasal discharge: Headache: Nasal obstruction: Epistaxis: Swelling over cheek: Hyposmia/Anosmia: Others: H/O Smoking: Occupational exposure: History of Allergy: Any other Systemic Illness: Family History: EXAMINATION: General Examination: Local Examination: Inspection: Probe test: Others: Important Surgical Findings: Investigational Results: MDCT PNS : Histopathology: Microbiological and other important lab tests: Department of Radio-diagnosis and Imaging Batra Hospital and Medical research Centre M.B.Road, New Delhi-110062. INFORMED CONSENT FORM I s/d/w of r/o do hereby declare that I give informed consent to participate in the thesis study titled, ROLE OF MULTI-DETECTOR COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY IN PARANASAL SINUSES PATHOLOGY. Dr. Lakshmi Kumar Chalamarla has informed me to my full satisfaction, in the language understand, about the purpose, nature of study and various investigations to be carried out for the study. I have been informed about the duration of the study and the possible benefits and risks. I give full, free and voluntary consent for being enrolled in the above study and reserve the right to withdraw from the study whenever I wish to without any prejudice of my right to undergo further treatment at this hospital and its associated hospitals. I have been given a copy of this form along with the patient information sheet. For illiterates patient information sheet will be shared with the family members. The family members are expected to read out and then get the informed consent. We will try to take written consent, if not we will take verbal consent in front of relatives. (Signature/Thumb (Signature/Thumb Impression of patient) Impression of relative) Name: Name: Date: Relation: Verbal Consent: Date: PATIENT INFORMATION SHEET Title: ROLE OF MULTI-DETECTOR COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY IN PARANASAL SINUSES PATHOLOGY. Introduction: This statement describes the purpose, procedures, benefits, risks and discomforts of the study and your right to withdraw from the study at any point of time. Purpose: This study involves MDCT scan evaluation of patients with paranasal sinus complaints. Study Procedure: Your relevant clinical history will be recorded, clinical examination will be conducted and findings noted. MDCT PNS will be performed and the radiological findings will be recorded. These findings are correlated with clinical/surgical/histopathological/microbiological findings. Benefits: No monetary benefits will be given to you. However, any new information that can come to light regarding any new findings in the study will help in further management of the disease and help all other ailing patients suffering from this problem. Confidentiality: Records of your study participation will be kept confidential, under safe custody. Any publication of data will not identify you by name. By signing the consent form you authorise the sharing of your study related medical records to the regulatory authorities and the Institutional Ethical Committee. Information regarding withdrawal: You have the right to withdraw yourself from the study at any time during the course of the study without any prejudice to you or your familys right to undergo future treatment at BATRA HOSPITAL. Contact for additional information: Any time during or after the study, you can obtain further information about the study from Dr. Lakshmi Kumar Chalamarla, Department of Radio-diagnosis, BHMRC, New Delhi. DATA ANALYSIS Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive values were calculated, followed by use of Fischer Exact test. Diagnostic accuracy of MDCT for different pathologies were calculated The research hypothesis and statistical methods were formed in consultation with the Biostatistician. SALIENT FINDINGS Key imaging features considered were significant anatomical variations, site of involvement, bony and soft tissue changes, invasion of surrounding structures, pathognomic features and correlation with clinical complaints/surgical/pathological/microbiological findings. The patients were divided into five categories: bacterial sinusitis, fungal sinusitis, benign tumors, malignant tumors, and others. 84 patients presented with sub acute or chronic bacterial sinusitis, 4 patients were of fungal sinusitis, 4 patients presented with benign tumors, 3 patients with malignant tumors and 5 patients with other conditions. Among 84 patients with bacterial sinusitis, 26 patients presented with sporadic pattern, 23 patients with infundibular pattern, 23 patients with ostiomeatal unit pattern, 8 patients with polyposis pattern, and 4 patients with sphenoid recess pattern. The various causative factors which came across in infundibular pattern were Haller cells in 6 cases, giant bulla ethmoidalis in 6 cases, uncinate process pneumatisation in 1 case, and mucoperiosteal thickening in 10 cases. The various causative factors for ostiomeatal pattern which were found during our study were: inferior turbinate hypertrophy in 6 cases, giant bulla ethmoidalis in 6 cases, deviated nasal septum with or without septal spur in 4 cases, concha bullosa in 3 cases, concha lamella in 2 cases, agger nasi cell in 1 case, and paradoxical middle turbinate in 1 case. The various findings which were encountered in bacterial sinusitis in our study were: mucoperiosteal thickening in 84 cases, ostiomeatal unit block in 31 patients, bone thickening in 20 patients, bone thinning in 8 cases, and bone sclerosis in 6 patients. Various anatomical variations were encountered during our study. One or the other anatomic variation was found in 99 cases ( 99% ). Of the structures around ostiomeatal unit, giant bulla ethmoidalis was found in 35 cases, middle turbinate pneumatisation in 33 cases, paradoxical curvature of middle turbinate in 19 cases. Haller cell was found in 15 cases. Type 1 frontal sinus drainage pathway in 78 cases, type 2 frontal sinus drainage pathway in 21 cases. Deviated nasal septum with or without septal spur in 55 cases, inferior turbinate hypertrophy in 30 cases, accessory maxillary ostia in 26 cases, and agger nasi cell in 93 cases. Type 1 optic nerve course was found in 53 cases, type 2 in 14 cases, type 3 in 9 cases, and type 4 optic nerve course along with Onodi cells in 23 cases. Type 1 anterior clinoid process pneumatisation was found in 10 cases, type 2 pneumatisation in 1 case. Sphenoid septum lateral attachment in 7 cases, and sphenoid sinus septum pneumatisation in 14 cases. Among 4 patients with fungal sinusitis, the various findings were: bilateral / multisinus involvement was found in 4 cases, expansion of any involved sinus was found in 4 cases, intrasinus hyperdensity was found in 4 cases. Bony thinning was found in 4 cases, bony erosions and nasal cavity involvement was found in 3 cases. The various findings in 4 cases of benign tumors seen ( 1 inverted papilloma, 1 juvenile angiofibroma and 2 ivory osteomas ) were: bony thinning in 2 cases, bony remodelling in 2 cases, multisinus involvement in 2 cases, intracranial extension in 1 case, and intra orbital extension in 1 case. Bony destruction, bone thickening/sclerosis, and calcification were not seen in any of the cases. Among 3 cases of malignant tumors, various findings were: : Bony destruction in 3 cases, bony thinning in 3 cases, bony remodelling in 0 cases, multisinus involvement in 2 cases, intracranial extension in 2 cases, and intra orbital extension in 3 cases. Bone thickening/sclerosis, and calcification were not seen in any of the cases. In our study we found sensitivity and specificity for bacterial sinusitis as 100% and 94.11% respectively. The fungal sinusitis had sensitivity an specificity of 75% and 100% respectively. Benign, malignant tumors and others had sensitivity and specificity of 100%. The diagnostic accuracy for bacterial sinusitis and fungal sinusitis was 99%, and the diagnostic accuracy of benign, malignant tumors and others was 100%. The p value was obtained after applying Fischer Exact test. The p value obtained was statistically significant for all the disease conditions. Based on the statistical values it can be inferred that multi detector computed tomography is useful to characterize paranasal sinuses lesions with respect to anatomical delineation, extension and bony involvement. There are certain limitations in our study. Our findings cannot be generalised to the whole population because of the limited sample size. However, our findings add value to the research done. The role of contrast cannot be adequately studied. The role of MRI in various paranasal sinus pathologies was not evaluated. CONCLUSIONS Paranasal sinus diseases are very commonly encountered problems in clinical practice. Clinical assessment alone is not sufficient to reach a diagnosis, as the presentation of most of the conditions is nonspecific. Imaging forms the mainstay not only in making correct diagnosis, but also to know the extent of lesion, pre-operative assessment of the sinonasal anatomy and commonly encountered anatomic variations. X ray has low sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values. CT is highly sensitive and specific in determining the presence of paranasal sinus pathology and clearly demonstrates the complex anatomy. The introduction of multi detector CT has transformed the axial imaging modality into a volumetric one and allows the pathology to be displayed in any desired plane. The capability of thin-section acquisition improves visualisation of tiny pathological details, and the isotropic nature of high spatial resolution data sets enables display in multiple planes, obvi ating image acquisition in prone or hyper extended patient position. RECOMMENDATIONS MDCT has proved to be highly sensitive in classifying the lesions into clinically relevant categories, making diagnosis and more so in knowing the extent of involvement with a high diagnostic accuracy. MDCT is an indispensible tool before Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) to accurately delineate the fine bony details that contribute to disease and also can predispose to complications which can be fatal. MDCT is very useful in predicting the diagnosis of fungal sinusitis by the presence of intrasinus hyperdensity, granulomatous diseases by the presence of nasal septal perforation and intracranial or intraorbital invasion, malignancy by bone destruction and invasion. MDCT can tailor the surgery according to the extent of disease. It helps in determining the prognosis of the malignant tumors depending on the site and extent of the disease. It can also obviate the need for surgery in certain conditions like polyposis. MRI can be problem solving tool in differentiating inflammatory sinonasal diseases from tumors, and also for the presence of intracranial or intraorbital extension. However, MRI alone cannot be performed in the evaluation of paranasal sinus diseases because of the problem of signal voids. It has to be supplemented by CT. MDCT is the preferred modality of all imaging studies available because of its ease, availability, accuracy, precision and low cost.

Acceptance of Loss of Time in Sonnet 73 and When I have Fears Essay

Acceptance of Loss of Time in Shakespeare’s Sonnet 73 and Keats’s When I have Fears that I May Cease to Be  Ã‚     Ã‚   Time spent fearing the passage of time wastes the very thing that one dreads losing. Both Shakespeare’s "Sonnet 73" and Keats’s "When I have Fears that I May Cease to Be" reveal the irrationality of this fear and explore different interpretations of this theme: to Keats death equates an inability to reach his potential, to accomplish what he desires; to Shakespeare death (represented in the metaphors of autumn, twilight, and ashes) will separate him from earthly, physical love. Through various rhetorical strategies and content of sub-themes, these authors ultimately address their struggle with mortality and time; their sonnets support the idea that to fear loss and death is a waste of precious time. By telescoping the various metaphors of autumn, twilight, and ashes in "Sonnet 73, " Shakespeare portrays the ending of time. His systematic representation of familiar concepts as symbols of time passage and models of life creates three individual paralleled sonnets that join at the poem’s conclusion to form a collaborated theme (Bloom 12). Shakespeare begins with the broad season of autumns and gets progressively more specific as he discusses twilight, a smaller frame of reference, and eventually ashes, the one nonlinear metaphor that is the most specific of the three (Vendler 335). The first quatrain is devoted to the depiction of autumn as an ending season. These four lines are characterized by a tone of loss, emptiness, and nostalgia for the spring that represents the poet’s youth. The "boughs which shake against the cold" that were once covered in green leaves stand alone and practically empty in the col... ...t a moment in earth’s little while:/ ‘This, too, shall pass away.’" -Lanta Wilson Smith    Work Cited Bloom, Harold. Modern Critical Interpretations: William Shakespeare’s Sonnets. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1987. pg. 12-13 Elliott, Nathaniel When I Have Fears that I May Cease to Be," Poetry for Students:Volume 2, Detroit: Gale, 1998. Hirst, Wolf Z. John Keats. Boston: Twayne Publishers, 1981. Ingram, W. G. and Theodore Redpath, Ed. "Sonnet 73," Shakespeare’s Sonnets.New York: Barnes & Noble, Inc., 1968. pg. 168-169. King, Bruce. "When I Have Fears that I May Cease to Be," Poetry for Students: Volume 2, Detroit: Gale, 1998. Napierkowski, Marie Rose and Mary K. Ruby. Vendler, Helen. The Art of Shakespeare’s Sonnets. Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Belknap Press of Harvard University Press, 1997. pg. 333-336.       Acceptance of Loss of Time in Sonnet 73 and When I have Fears Essay Acceptance of Loss of Time in Shakespeare’s Sonnet 73 and Keats’s When I have Fears that I May Cease to Be  Ã‚     Ã‚   Time spent fearing the passage of time wastes the very thing that one dreads losing. Both Shakespeare’s "Sonnet 73" and Keats’s "When I have Fears that I May Cease to Be" reveal the irrationality of this fear and explore different interpretations of this theme: to Keats death equates an inability to reach his potential, to accomplish what he desires; to Shakespeare death (represented in the metaphors of autumn, twilight, and ashes) will separate him from earthly, physical love. Through various rhetorical strategies and content of sub-themes, these authors ultimately address their struggle with mortality and time; their sonnets support the idea that to fear loss and death is a waste of precious time. By telescoping the various metaphors of autumn, twilight, and ashes in "Sonnet 73, " Shakespeare portrays the ending of time. His systematic representation of familiar concepts as symbols of time passage and models of life creates three individual paralleled sonnets that join at the poem’s conclusion to form a collaborated theme (Bloom 12). Shakespeare begins with the broad season of autumns and gets progressively more specific as he discusses twilight, a smaller frame of reference, and eventually ashes, the one nonlinear metaphor that is the most specific of the three (Vendler 335). The first quatrain is devoted to the depiction of autumn as an ending season. These four lines are characterized by a tone of loss, emptiness, and nostalgia for the spring that represents the poet’s youth. The "boughs which shake against the cold" that were once covered in green leaves stand alone and practically empty in the col... ...t a moment in earth’s little while:/ ‘This, too, shall pass away.’" -Lanta Wilson Smith    Work Cited Bloom, Harold. Modern Critical Interpretations: William Shakespeare’s Sonnets. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1987. pg. 12-13 Elliott, Nathaniel When I Have Fears that I May Cease to Be," Poetry for Students:Volume 2, Detroit: Gale, 1998. Hirst, Wolf Z. John Keats. Boston: Twayne Publishers, 1981. Ingram, W. G. and Theodore Redpath, Ed. "Sonnet 73," Shakespeare’s Sonnets.New York: Barnes & Noble, Inc., 1968. pg. 168-169. King, Bruce. "When I Have Fears that I May Cease to Be," Poetry for Students: Volume 2, Detroit: Gale, 1998. Napierkowski, Marie Rose and Mary K. Ruby. Vendler, Helen. The Art of Shakespeare’s Sonnets. Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Belknap Press of Harvard University Press, 1997. pg. 333-336.      

English Euphemism Essay

Euphemism, as a common linguistic phenomenon in world culture, is widely used in every social class and field. English euphemism, as one of many euphemisms existing in the world, has its own deep origin, which include both the religious origin and the historical, literary origin. This thesis will try to discuss the origin of English euphemism from every aspect of religion, race, politics, literary, and history. Language reflects life, and is always closely related to the society. During the communication, due to some certain restriction of behavior and morality, people tend to use euphemism-used as a kind of lubrication, making the harsh, indelicate words sound tactful and pleasant. English euphemism plays a very important role in people’s social communication. This paper will also expound the social communicative function of English euphemism from the three aspects: evasive function, polite function, and cosmetic function. Having a good understanding of the origin and social function of English euphemism and the English language Culture can avoid many conflicts in the process of social communication . [Key Words] origin; communicative function; evasion; cosmetic function; politeness [Abstract] euphemisms prevalent in the language of the world’s cultural phenomenon, it is widely used in all social strata and fields. Euphemism as a euphemism in one of the many, has its deep roots produced, in which packets of religion and politics, but also literature and history. This paper attempts to religion, race, politics, literature, history, in a bid to explore the emergence of English Euphemisms source. Language reflects life, and always closely linked with social, conversation in the language, due to a certain code of conduct and Ethics constraints, people often use the euphemism —- the ‘lubricant’, making harsh, non – polite euphemism becomes so pleasurable. It is in people’s social communication played an important role. This function of its taboo, courtesy functions and capabilities in three areas to cover up the English language Euphemism illustrates the social communicative functions. Euphemism by fully understanding the origins of English and its social communicative function, and further understand the English language and culture, in order to avoid social communication in the various conflicts. [Keywords:] origin;  communicative function; taboo; politeness; cover 1.Introduction Euphemism is a cultural phenomenon as well as a linguistic concept. Every language has its own euphemism, so does English. It is deeply rooted in social life and has a great influence on social communication. As an indispensable and natural pArt of English language, English euphemism has attracted people’s attention for a long time. Since Euphemism was coined, it has played a very important role in people’s communication. The communication without euphemism is unimaginable. Euphemism is used like lubrication, which makes the communication go on smoothly. This thesis will have an overview of the origin of English euphemism, and state its social communicative function. English euphemism as a linguistic concept, it has close relationships with the western culture, and it truly reflects the life and values of English people and their history. Euphemism is a particularly good medium for access to the force of language that has provided an effective approach to understanding the human mind. The study of English euphemism can help us understand the western Culture and promote the international Development because euphemism is widely used in international negotiations. So there is a great need for us to study English euphemism, including: its origin, its social function, etc. 2. The definitions of English euphemism Euphemism is a universal linguistic phenomenon. Nearly in every language, there are some disgusting words, which make people feel embarrassed. In the process of communication, the unsuitable or too direct words will make people feel uncomfortable, even angry. Then there is a great need for us to use a tactful way to express emotion, exchange ideas. That is to say, to use a pleasant, mild or indirect words or phrases take the place of tabooed words. It is known that euphemism is a form of language intentionally created in social relation to achieve ideal communication. Without them any language would seem to be vulgar and rude, void of politeness and vividness to some extent. As a common communication in the process of people using language, euphemism is an important way for people to coordinate the social relationships. Like a kind of lubrication, euphemism enables people to express what cannot be uttered directly and ensures communication to be  carried smoothly. It is a language Strategy in civilized society for avoiding taboo. It is unimaginable if the communication is without euphemism. The word ‘euphemism’ was derived from the Greek word ‘euphemismos’, which means ‘fair speech’. The prefix ‘eu’ means ‘good, sound well’ and ‘pheme’ means ‘saying’ or ‘speech’. And thus the literal meaning of ‘euphemism’ is ‘to speak with good words or in a pleasant manner’. That is to say, euphemism is used as an alternative to unpleasant expression, in order to avoid possible lose of face, either one’s own face or through going offense, that of the audience, or some of third of party. This unpleasant expression may be tabooed, fearsome, or for some other reasons that speakers can’t or intend not to use some certain expression directly on some occasion. ‘In Webster’s Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language is’ the substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought substituted ‘. Rawson Blunt, a British writer, defined euphemism as’ a good favorable interpretation of a bad word.†[1 ] ‘Encyclopedia Britannica (1994) also defines euphemism as’ a figure of speech in which something of an unpleasant, distressing or indelicate nature is described in less offensive terms†[2] From the above mentioned, we could clearly see that euphemism is characterized by avoidance language and evasive expression. The speakers use words or expressions as a protective shield against the anger or disapproval of natural or supernatural things. It is one form of language and a linguistic phe nomenon 3.The origins of English euphemism 3.1 The religious origin of English euphemism The earliest English euphemisms come from ‘taboo’. The word ‘taboo’ comes from Togan, a kind of Polynesian. It indicates evasive language or action. [3] The emergence of English euphemism is to meet the need of avoiding taboos. In primitive society, people can’t explain such things as ailment and some supernatural phenomena. ‘People have confusion between the name of the things and things themselves. The name is viewed as an extension of things. Just as the idiom says’ Speak of devil and he appears ‘. Naturally the words or phrases related to such things become taboos.’ [4] In the ancient times, people had blind faith in ghosts and Gods they respected. They whispered and even feared them so they did not dare to address their  names directly. They think it profane to name God. Therefore the names of gods become the earliest taboos. To speak name of gods was to evoke the divinity whose power then had to be confronted. Such dangerous practices were reserved for priests skilled in negotiating with the supernatural. So the usual way to avoid is to employ euphemisms. Therefore, for the religious need, a lot of euphemisms about religion emerged. For example, in order not to desecrate God, people in English-speaking country always use some other name for God instead of calling directly, such as ‘Adonai, the Almighty, Caesar’s Cruth, the Creater, Dod, Gad, Land, Lawks, Lawd.’ [5] The opposite side of god is devil, which is more terrible for people. When people refer to them, they tend to use such euphemisms to replace: D, the Big D, the Evil one, the Black one, the Goodman, Jesse, Old boy, Our father, Lord of lords, King of kings, the Light of the world, etc. [6] From the above mentioned, we can find that religion brings many euphemistic terms in the religious matter, especially the naming and addressing of God to the language. 3.2 The racial and national origins of English euphemism It is known to all, the phenomenon of racial discrimination is deeply rooted in America in which ‘equal opportunity’ is flattered by American white people as an equal right enjoyed by everyone. Due to the pressure of social public opinion, although some whites discriminate the black from their heart, they will not expose this kind of prejudice in public. Meanwhile, few people dare to humiliate and persecute blacks publicly for no reason at all. In other words, the way of discrimination becomes tactful. There are many euphemisms emerging for this reason. In the 1930s, ‘nigger’ is still a neutral noun in England, and has no meaning of humiliating blacks. But since this word has the obvious meaning of discriminating the blacks, most of people in England and Americans use some other euphemistic words, such as ‘colored black’ instead. When talking about some other races, it does not often use the direct words that are related to color. People often use some euphemistic expression, such as the geographic name. 3.3 Historical, literary and Political origins of English euphemism From the time the Normans conquered England in 1066, English has emerged many euphemisms. At that time, the main reason to use euphemism is that the language used by the conquered is often disparaged, and is thought as gross language. The upper  class surely doesn ‘t want to lower their status to use such words. In order to avoid using such gross words, they tend to use’ the elegant words’, which originated from Latin. And these words were mixed into English gradually. There are also many euphemisms in literary works. For example, in Hamlet, Shakespeare use the expression ‘The undiscovered country from whose bourn no traveler returns’ (there has never been a mystery travelers to come back off the country) to express his great sympathy for Hamlet . [7] The famous American writer Mark Twain use ‘release’ to express ‘die’ in his work The Adventure of Tom Sawyer. Besides, politics is a fertile area for the appearance and growth of English euphemism, which is cosmetic in expression but deceptive in nature. Euphemisms of this kind are always consciously and deliberately. The cosmetic euphemism can be easily found in American English. Government’s discussion of the Vietnam War was saturated with euphemisms. Villages burned and inhabitants imprisoned were ‘Pacifications’; the war itself was not a war but a ‘conflict’, the ‘bombing’ becomes ‘logistical strike’ or ‘close air support’, and ‘killing’ becomes ‘wasting the enemy’. These euphemisms are used to deceive and to hide the dirty business of war . [8] The use of such Political euphemisms helps government to beautify the action and prevent people from taking any anti-government action. So in order to satisfy the Political needs, many euphemisms come to exist. 4.The social communicative function of English euphemism From the perspective of language communication, euphemism functions to avoid taboos, to show politeness and conceal feelings. Thanks to euphemism, it is easy for people to accept the things that are likely to make others feel embarrassed or unhappy. It is people’s general character to express their ideas as mildly and tactfully as possible. Euphemism helps people to reach this goal. From the moment euphemism came into existence, it has played a very important role in our daily communication, and help establish a good relationship between human beings and even strengthen the social stability. Euphemism are motivated by the desire not to be offensive. People use them to show their politeness, to avoid being offensive and to meet the psychological and beneficial needs of both speakers and hearers in communication. But sometimes they are used to conceal or cover something. Accordingly, euphemism serves three basic communicative functions: evasive  function, polite function and cosmetic function. 4.1 The evasive function of English euphemism The evasive function of euphemism is to evade using taboos, enabling the speaker to talk about tabooed things freely. These tabooed things are believed to be dangerous to certain individuals, or to the society as a whole, or to be disgusting and unpleasant, and cause fear. Such tabooed things include: disease, disabilities, death, sex, body excretion and body elimination process, etc. People can use euphemisms to talk about what cannot be talked directly. Reposted elsewhere in the paper for free download 4.1.1 In terms of disease and disabilities People yearn for health, and fear for specific disease and every sort of disability. So people always use tactful way to express them. For example, sexual or venereal disease such as syphilis, gonorrhoea, ADIS, etc. Are called ‘social disease’, ‘communicative disease’, etc. in English. Besides, disabilities are very sensitive area in every culture. In English, ‘the disabled, the handicapped, the inconvenienced, the invalid, auditory impaired, hard of hearing, talk with one’s fingers’, etc. are put into service. [9] So euphemism plays a very important function in our social communication. Without it, we sometimes cannot continue our talk. 4.1.2 In terms of death Death is an inevitable stage at the end of life’s journey. It is common Experience of human beings. Yet it has been the source of fear-fear of the loss of loved ones; fear of the end of one’s life; fear of the actual process of dying. Therefore, all these fears, worries, and unpleasant feelings combined lead to verbal taboo of death. Euphemisms concerning death are extremely rich. In English, there are more than seventy euphemisms for ‘death’, including ‘to be gone, to be gone to a better world, to be with God, to breath one’s last, to close one’s day, to depArt from the world forever, to depArt to God, to fall asleep, join the great majority, pass away, etc. [10 ] No matter why this word is used in a certain language, people always tend to use less harsh words 4.1.3 In terms of sex, body  excretion and body elimination process Words relating to sex, procreation and excretion are highly restricted to mention because they may evoke disgusting responses of people. Verbal taboo on them is probably motivated by the intuitive disaster, shame. People all have certain feelings of which they are so ashamed that they don ‘t like to admit even to themselves. In people’s daily life or in some formal occasion, if the talk or discussion refers to something about drainage, people will try to avoid using vulgar language. They tend to use some implied or neutral words to make conversation comfortable. For ordinary people, the safest way to avoid mentioning these things that they have to mention in many circumstances is to use another expression-euphemism to replace the true name of such a thing. For example, in English there are many elegant expressions for ‘going to WC’, such as: to wash one’s hand, to spend a penny, to go and see one’s aunt, to answer the call of nature, because nature calls, etc. [11] ‘The topic concerning being pregnant is touchy because it tends to arouse the association with sexual behaviors.’ To beat round bushes’ is very necessary, such as’ with child ‘,’ anticipating ‘,’ excepting ‘for’ pregnant ‘, etc. [12] Talking about sexual intercourse is taboo. Expressions relating to sex have heavily been veiled for the purpose of avoiding awkwardness and offense. So people use euphemistic words to talk about it. For example, people evade saying ‘hip’ directly which is replaced with ‘buttock’, ‘bottom’, ‘one’s thing’, and ‘secret parts’ donates sex organs of both males and females. 4.1.4 In terms of old age English and Chinese have different feelings about ‘old age’. A Chinese is proud of being old, whereas a westerner will feel irritated and even insulted at mentioning his oldness. In English culture, people do not describe others as or to be described as’ old ‘because the old, who no longer work, are ignored by society. Therefore, people create’ the second childhood golden years, senior citizen, gray hair, mature golden age ‘when they refer to’ old age ‘in which it attempts to conceal the fact of becoming old and avoid arousing old people’s sad feeling of aging. [14] 4.2 The polite function of English euphemism. Politeness is another important function that euphemisms serve in the social  life. Politeness is the symbol of human’s civilization and one of the important principles guiding people’s activities. As a kind of significant social activity, language activity must observe this principle, too. When we have to talk something unpleasant, we should choose euphemistic way to express in order not to hurt others. Being polite is a reasonable action that anyone who is keen on face-saving will take. The polite function of euphemism is tried to avoid being harsh or impolite in the communication. In other words, euphemisms are to minimize impolite expressions and maximize polite expressions. For instance, when a teacher comments on a student’s moral conducts and school work in front of the student or his or her parent, he or she should report the fact on one hand, and on the other hand should take into consideration the student’s psychological endurance and the paren t’s face. So the euphemistic way to express might be ‘The student is a bit slow for his or her age’ instead of ‘The student is stupid ‘. [15] The polite function of English euphemism is embodied in every occupational language. Occupational discrimination gives people pressure and emotional irritation. Although euphemisms cannot uproot this kind of phenomenon, at least, they can give them some psychological comfort by upgrading of career name. Therefore, ‘ engineer, manager, etc. ‘have become more and more fashionable.’ Dustman ‘is changed to’ sanitary engineer ‘;’ mechanic ‘to’ automobile engineer ‘,’ gardener ‘to’ landscape architect ‘,’ shoemaker ‘to’ shoe rebuilder ‘[16] In English, there are many adjectives about people’s appearance, such as’ good looking, handsome, pretty, charming, attractive’, etc. They are all commendatory words. When talking about someone who is not pretty, we cannot use ‘ugly’ or ‘awfully’. We had better use some euphemisms such as ‘plain, ordinary, not particularly looking’, etc. instead of them. So euphemism’s polite function can save people’s face in their process of communication. It is so important that we cannot neglect it. 4.3 The cosmetic function of English euphemism Besides the evasive and polite function, euphemism has the cosmetic function. This kind of euphemism is usually used in the government, military, politics and commerce. It refers to using good words to beautify things, which are not beautiful in reality and make the thing be more persuaded and acceptable. Because euphemism has the nature of vagueness, to some extent,  it is deceptive. Traditionally speaking, euphemism plays a positive role in social life. Using it, people can avoid some embarrassed and ungracious occasion. But just as every coin has two sides, euphemism has no exception. Using it suitably can coordinate social relationships, but abusing it will mislead the public, will cover up the essence of things. For example, in modern Western society, the poor is called as’ the needy ‘, later it was changed to’ the culturally deprived ‘, then to’ the underprivileged ‘, at last to’ the disadvantaged ‘. So it will confuse peopl e that this country is so rich that there is no poor people at all. Firstly, the government and the military often use them to disguise the reality from truth. They describe ‘Economic crisis’ as ‘recession’ or ‘depression’; ‘attack’ as ‘active defense’. [17] At the beginning of 20th century , the relationship between labor and capital become strained, and the agitation of striking became a serious social problem. In order to hide the fact, politicians call the strained labor-capital relationship as ‘industrial climate’, striking as ‘industrial action’. If the negotiation between labor and capital is successful, it will be claimed as ‘productive’, on the contrary, it is ‘counter-productive’. [18] Secondly, this kind of euphemism is widely used in commerce. It is often used to play tricks and to deceive the customers. The commercial exaggerates the product’s function and quality. In the same way, the English euphemism is also used to make customers feel pleased . For example, in order to meet the passengers’ sense of dignity, some Airlines call First Class Deluxe Class or Premium Class; Second Class First Class; and Third Class become Business Class, Economic Class, or Tourist Class. Doing like these, it seems that all passengers’ position are promoted. Their purpose is to attract more passengers and gain more profits by using euphemisms in the communication, meanwhile, the customers feel more decent, and it helps customers save face. In short, euphemism of this kind may make an idea more palatable, but they inflate language, reduce precision and often tamper with truth. Some people condemn euphemism as demoralizing because of its hypocrisy, which other consider them useful in the aspect of coordinating social relationships . However, the fact remains that euphemisms are very much a part of the language, and what’s more important for us is not to debate their merits or demerits, but rather to be able to realize that English euphemism can serve for the special social activities  under certain circumstance. 5. Conclusion English euphemism as an essential part of English language, is observed everywhere and widely used in people’s daily communication. On the issue of the origin and social communicative function of English euphemism, this thesis has a tentative exploration. But this kind of exploration is in a state of Development because euphemism is developed all the time. Euphemism roots in every aspect of social life, and is developed with the advancement of society. English euphemism is a mirror of Western Culture in the form of English language. From the moment it was born, it has distinct culture color. Euphemism undoubtedly reflects the inner relationship among the cultural tradition, social values and the form of language. In speech interaction, sometimes, out of politeness or tact, one uses a pleasant, less direct word instead of something unpleasant. Using euphemism is speaker’s active pragmatic Strategy in a certain time and a certain situation. English euphemism promotes the Development of English language, and enriches the vocabularies of English language, giving people a feeling of warm and fresh. In the 21st century, with the development of science and technology, many social problems rise, too. People crave for the gentle, warm and easy understood words. Euphemism emerges ceaselessly just right for meeting this psychological need. As a common communication medium and a rhetoric method, English euphemism will be used wider and wider. Some scholars hold the opinion that it is unreasonable to use euphemism because they have the nature of deceit, especially in politics and government. But we cannot deny the fact that euphemism is very helpful in the process of human communication. Twenty-first century is a period when people of different culture have even more touches with each other. So it is vital for us to have a good understanding of English euphemism. It is unimaginable if the diplomatic negotiation is without euphemism. Using euphemism is a kind of language skill that each of us should master. Bibliography [1] Li Qing. A Tentative Study of English Euphemism-From Pragmatic Perspective. Shandong Normal University, a master’s degree thesis in English Language and Literature. 2003 2.24 P2 [2] Wu Chang-Qi An Analysis of Diplomatic Euphemism from the Perspectives of Cooperative Principles and Politeness Principle. Chongqing University of Foreign Linguistics and Applied Linguistics Master’s degree thesis. 2004.5 P7 [3] Hanyin Yan, Liu Lei. Euphemisms from the psychological view of social communicative function [J]. Science, Shenyang Normal University (Social Science Edition). 2005.3 P146 [4] the same [1] P4 [5] Xiang-Yun Wu. Euphemism social function [J]. Zhaotong Teacher’s College. 2004.2 P30 [6] the same [5] P30 [7] Mao new cultivation. On the basis of English Euphemisms generation [J]. Yunmeng Journal. 2004.3 P3 [8] Sheng-Juan. On the cover of Euphemism function [J]. Hunan Agricultural University (Social Science Edition). 2004.12 P94 [9] HU Chun-mei. On the composition and function of Euphemism [J]. Zhejiang Education College. 2005.1P32 [10] Kong a peak, Wang Yanjun. Euphemism of the communicative functions of English and its applications [J]. Shanxi Journal of Radio and Television University. 2004.P59 [11] the same [10] P59 [12] Bi Xiuying A Study on English Euphemism. Zhengzhou University Foreign Language and Literature master’s degree thesis 2003.11 P34 [13] Fan groups A Study of Culture Connotation of English Euphemism, Hunan Normal University, a master’s degree in English Language and Literature Papers 2005.5 P43 [14] Ya-Ping Wang, Wan Xueqin. Interpretation of the communicative functions of English Euphemisms [J]. Jiangxi education. 2004.6 P37 [15] Muge force. On the very structure of English euphemism [J]. Gansu Science and Technology vertical and horizontal. 2005.2 P133 [16] Tao Qin 3. Discussion on the origin of English Euphemisms and social function [J]. A Journal of Nanjing health. 2003.1 P157 [17] Wang Ping. The Communicative Functions of English Euphemism and its tectonic approach Exploration [J]. Fuqing Branch of Fujian Normal University Journal of .2004.4 P62 [18] the same [10] P59

First Grade by Ron Koertge: Poem Analysis Essay

The shorter a poem is, the more striking it is. Ron Koertge’s First Grade proved this through a magic of splendid simplicity, most especially in the last line of the poem- â€Å"For the rest of our lives.† Sincerely, I was struck by the swift and wholesome change or transition in scene from the first stanza to the next. However, what threw me off my seat was the last line because of the ‘eternity’ Koertge had implied in that stanza. Just because of that line, the whole comparison between the first stanza, which illustrated our innocent and healthily imaginative childhood, and the second, which illustrated a stricter and guided society, had changed. It caused that first stanza to look short-lived and the second one to be incessant, everlasting, and without end. This poem’s message, implied greatly by the last line, tells us that we must enjoy our childhood and never take any opportunity or moment with our loved ones for granted. It also tells us that although we have our chance to have an occasional splurge, order, law, and justice will be prevalent at all times. This holds true to all people- especially those in First Grade. I think the main theme is the flawed school system. I don’t mean the school system in a particular area or country. He’s talking about school in general and how it kills the individual’s creativity and intellectual independence. He mentions how his imagination was wild and free before first grade: â€Å"Until then, every forest had wolves in it† and â€Å"we could talk to water†. But when he enters first grade, he’s faced with drab reality: his teacher is a â€Å"woman with the gray breath†; he’s saying that the state of mind the school creates in you is something that you’re stuck with for the rest of your life.