Regional and extra regional players

Regional and extra regional players CHAPTER IV THE REGIONAL AND THE EXTRA REGIONAL PLAYERS AND THEIR ROLES â€Å"Besides a common religion, Islam, foreign invaders- from Alexander the great to British in the 19th century and the Soviets in the 20th century have united the Afghans†. -Insight Magazine, 09 April 1990. Brief History   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Afghanistan was the only country in the world to launch a strong protest in United Nations against the induction of Pakistan in 1947 and also to lodge a border dispute with Pakistan when it claimed that Durand Line is no more a binding contract as now there is no British Raj present in the region[1]. It also incited a major incursion in Bajur Agency, NWFP in 1961 with hope to have it annexed with itself and led then Prime Minister Dauod Khan to resign from his post, it plunged Afghanistan into a long spiral fall from which it has yet to recover[2]. Top of Form Bottom of Form   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Afghanistan soon proved to be a tough neighbour and sided with India on every matter which could hurt Pakistani interests using an India-Soviet favouring group. In December 1979 Russia invaded the Afghanistan with the pre-text of supporting the pro-Soviet Government. The USA weary of spreading Communism, Saudi Arabia indebted to the American cause coupled with sense of Muslim power and Pakistan worried of increasingly unstable and hostile Afghanistan combined together to exploit the Islamists waged a â€Å"Jihad† against â€Å"Soviet Invaders†. The Pashtun grievances and warlordism gave way to Taliban (literally meaning students) who rose from Kandhar and took 95% of Afghanistan under control by year 2000. Taliban were the friends of Pakistan and safeguarded the Western frontier of Pakistan against not only Indians but even Soviets[3]. Environmental Realities USA have tried to render peace in Afghanistan, but it has become more complicated due to inability of U.S. and NATO forces to understand the environmental realities peculiar to this region and being alien to the culture and traditions of the people. To have peace requires patience and right priorities. Before peace is attempted we need to understand some hard facts[4] :- (a) The continuing influx of Afghan youth trained in Pakistans madrassas now comprises the bulk of Taliban and Al Queda cadres. They are hooked to glorified violence in the name of jihad, and imbued with robotic discipline. They are an army beyond redemption and reasoning. (b) The silent Pashtun majority is terrorized into submission by Taliban and Al Queda. (c) The internecine warfare between the warlords for the past decade has created an unbridgeable divide between the Pashtuns, the Tajiks, the Uzbeks, the Hazaras and the Persian speaking Shiites of Herat. The past mutual ethnic cleansing and betrayals have created visceral hatred among different tribes. (d) The Pashtun dominated Taliban still cling to the idea of Pashtuns ruling over all Afghanistan which the minorities no longer countenance. This has led to a growing friction between ethnic groups, specifically the Pashtuns and their northern Tajik and Uzbek contemporaries. Foreign Relations Before the Soviet invasion, Afghanistan pursued a policy of neutrality and nonalignment in its foreign relations. After the December 1979 invasion, Afghanistans foreign policy mirrored that of the Soviet Union. The fall of the Taliban in October 2001 opened a new chapter in Afghanistans foreign relations. Afghanistan is now an active member of the international community, and has diplomatic relations with countries from around the world. Iran Iran shares a long border with Afghanistan (900kilometres) and has provided shelter to roughly 1.5million Afghans. Afghanistans relations with Iran have fluctuated over the years, with periodic disputes over the water rights of the Helmand River as the main issue of contention[5]. Initially, due to its war with Iraq, Iran was not actively involved in Afghanistan but later the Shia groups who were bitter due to meagre support from Pakistan became close to Iran. Following the Soviet invasion, Iran supported the cause of the Afghan resistance. Iran shares a cultural, linguistic affinity with northern Afghanistans non-Pashtun elements, which suffered the most under Taliban rule. Tehran resents the atrocities regularly visited upon the Shiah Hazara minority by Sunni fanatics in Afghanistan. Its relations with Afghanistan have improved since the fall of the Taliban and has been active in Afghan reconstruction efforts, particularly in the western portion of the country[6]. Presently, Iran h as adopted a more aloof posture and appears to be avoiding overt commitments or opposition to any single Afghan faction. Iranian policy makers have long sought to prevent an alliance between Pakistan and a Sunni-dominated Afghanistan, which would destabilise its entire eastern border. Besides Irans competition with Pakistan for access to the CARs, Irans Afghanistan policy is largely motivated by sectarian ties to Afghanistans Shia minority. A territorial collapse of Pakistan, or domestic instability that threatened to draw in Afghanistan has always tended to be contrary to Irans interests. It has always been perceived that the nationalistic developments of Pashtunistan could spill over to neighbouring Iran, destabilizing its Baluch population, thereby activating the anti-Iran elements in the form of the establishment of a Greater Balochistan. Thus, Iran is against both formation of a Pashtunistan within the Afghan confederation as it would give greater dominance to Sunni Pashtuns and further deteriorate the conditions of Shias, and also of an independent Pashtunistan which would result in similar demands of independent areas within Iran by other sub nationalistic communities. Prolongation of Afghan instability restricts Pakistans capability to export its light industrial goods in Central Asia and the Caucasus, where government subsidised cheap Iranian consumer exports have proliferated. A peaceful Afghanistan would also offer an unwelcome alternative for carrying Caspian basin oil and gas across Afghanistan to South Asia. Iran may also be concerned that an Afghan settlement could provide a larger opening for American and Turkish economic and political influence in the region[7]. CAR The main concern of the three CARs (Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan) bordering Afghanistan was the spill over of militants into their territories. Uzbekistan and Turkey had contacts with General Dostum who had argued that a confederation of autonomous states is the only solution for the chaos in Afghanistan. He warned that the Uzbeks will never again live under Pashtun domination and demanded a separate state, which would be a secular entity and act as a buffer for Central Asia against the spread of Islamic fundamentalism from the Pashtun-dominated area in the south[8]. Afghanistans relations with Tajikistan have been complicated by political upheaval and civil war in Tajikistan, which spurred some 100,000 Tajiks to seek refuge in Afghanistan in late 1992 and early 1993. Also disenchanted by the Talibans harsh treatment of Afghanistans Tajik minority, Tajikistan facilitated assistance to the Northern Alliance. The Karzai government has sought to establish closer ties with its no rthern neighbours in order to capitalize on the potential economic benefits of increased trade. CHINA During the 1970s, the Soviet influence in Kabul, and later their invasion of Afghanistan, has been perceived by Beijing as the purposeful encircling of China by the Soviet Union. Thus, support to Pakistans western border security has been a major feature of Beijings policy. China also has keen interests in Central Asias energy resources and, thus, supports a moderate government at Kabul, because it is believed to be least likely to foment any sort of extremism and disturbance in neighbouring countries. Chinas strategic concerns in the area are mirrored by the security of its lines of communication, which tends to counter Afghanistans rhetoric on Pashtunistan. The ethnic-religious civil wars in Afghanistan have caused rise of Islamic fundamentalism. Just as America has a vision of a modestly stable Afghanistan that will no longer be a haven for extremists, China has a vision of Afghanistan as a secure conduit for roads and energy pipelines that will bring natural resources from the Indian Ocean and elsewhere. So if America defeats Al Qaeda and the irreconcilab le elements of the Taliban, Chinas geopolitical position will be enhanced[9]. This is not a paradox, since China and America have convergence of interests with difference being that whole direction of Americas military and diplomatic effort is toward an exit strategy, whereas the Chinese hope to stay and profit. Saudi Arabia In late seventies, Saudis were facing severe criticism for their close alliance with USA from Arab governments. Saudis used the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan as a springboard to portray their commitment to Muslim causes and brush up their Islamic credentials. In early eighties in close cooperation with America, Saudi Arabia provided a large amount of financial aid for military and humanitarian purposes for Afghanistan. Pakistan had close working relations with all Sunni groups, and never tried to bring Shia groups into the coalition to avoid friction with Saudis. After the cut off of U.S. funds, Saudis became the largest provider of funds for Afghan adventure. The direct role of Saudi Arabia also dramatically increased. Later, especially post 9/11, the warm relations between Taliban and Saudis hit the bottom when Taliban refused to cooperate on Osama bin Ladin issue. Saudis had funded the most conservative individuals and organizations in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Ironically, most o f them turned against the Saudi royal family and had openly criticized the royal family for its close relationship with USA. Russia Russia though major player until 1991 had markedly reduced influence since its disintegration into many independent states. It has given limited military help to the Taliban opposition and deployed troops in Tajikistan near the border of Afghanistan. It is suspicious of increasing US influence in the area traditionally seen by them as their area of influence but not in a position to challenge the USA. Since the fall of the Taliban, the Karzai government has improved relations with Russia, but Afghanistans outstanding foreign debt to Russia still continues to be a source of contention. While the campaign against international terrorism is a key area in which U.S. and Russian interests converge, Moscow is also wary of growing U.S. influence in especially the oil-rich Caspian Sea basin. Russia is providing military hardware to Afghanistan and is aware of the fact that fragile nature of central authority in Afghanistan, torn by chronic infighting among rival ethnic factions, requires U.S. presence as its disengagement would likely spur renewed competition for influence. Russia has became more interested in confining Pashtun dominated Islam to the south and creating a Tadjik and Uzbek entity as a buffer area for the Central Asian states, which also suits Russias near abroad policy. Pakistan Pakistan shares a border of some 2,400 kilometres with Afghanistan and has 10 million Pashtun citizens of its own. The main aim of Pakistans Afghan policy was to have a friendly government in Afghanistan to secure its Western border. Pakistans policy since its inception has been focused on maintaining a situation that could help it avoid controversy over the Durand Line. It has been trying to force a fusion of communities along own side and inciting separation of those on the other side of the line. Islamabad sought to offset Afghan territorial claims by supporting Afghan Islamic parties. Unfortunately, the policies, which it adopted, had exactly the opposite effects. None of the Afghan governments were willing to subordinate its actions to Pakistans wishes. Many Afghans say Pakistan has exacerbated the ethnic component of their conflict by supporting Pashtun Islamic rule. There was a domestic political incentive as well, linked to Islamabads fears about irredentism. â€Å"Pakistan saw in the Taliban, and other fundamentalists, the opportunity to undermine support for Pashtun nationalism†[10]. Pakistan was the first country to recognise Taliban rule in Afghanistan and initiated efforts to persuade the Taliban to accept a broad-based government in Kabul in which all major ethnic tribes would share power. September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the USA changed everything and presented Pakistan with a stark choice: either make common cause with Washington in its war against bin Ladens al-Qaeda network based in Taliban-controlled neighbouring Afghanistan, or persist with its pro-Taliban Afghan policy and as a consequence suffer international condemnation of guilt by association. On September 13, 2001 then President General Pervez Musharraf announced that Pakistan would lend its unstinted cooperation to the international coalition against terror[11]. General Pervez Musharraf address to the nation on 19 September is attached as appendix B. More recently, Pakistan has been alarmed by Indias growing political, military, and economic ties to Afghanistan, and sees its establishment of consulates in the Pashtun-majority cities of Jalalabad and Kandahar as provocative. Many Afghans feel Islamabads insistence on Pashtun representation in the post-Taliban political order as the â€Å"crying of crocodile tears†, reflective of an inability to give up strategic designs on Afghanistan[12]. Infact it is widely believed â€Å"When push comes to shove, Pakistan is unlikely to hold back, and will use its long border and deep ethnic links with Pashtuns to alter the balance in its favour†, says a senior Pashtun leader in the present Hamid Karzis government[13]. Even though there are more Pashtuns in Pakistan than in Afghanistan and Pakistani Pakhtuns are better educated and more affluent, Pakistan has always been nervous about its Pashtun population. Does that mean Pakistan and Afghanistan will forever remain condemned to instability and seek security by dependence on outside forces? This may not be true, but to bring stability in the region by uniting the furious Pashtuns divided by the Durand line may be a viable option. A weak non-Pashtun dominated state in Afghanistan has never posed any threat to Pakistan because it has neither had any ideological bearings or religious extra-national ambitions nor any ethnic or sub-nationalist stirrings. On the other hand, whenever there has been a strong Pashtun dominated state in Afghanistan, its government has supported Pashtun separatism (refusal to accept the Durand Line) and pose a threat to the territorial integrity and political solidarity of Pakistan[14]. Pakistan has no effective control over a large swath of territory along its border with Afghanistan primarily dominated by Pashtuns[15]. Dangerous extremist groups that are intent on attacking the U.S. such as al-Qaeda, enjoy safe haven in these border areas. United States â€Å"had we looked deeper, we might have found that the root causes behind the enduring and resilient nature of the Taliban have very little to do with religion, and much to do with an ancient ethnic struggle we [the United States] should consider the prospect of creating a Pashtunistan which reflects the tribal boundaries. This would be a new state, carved from parts of both Afghanistan and Pakistan This new area would be composed largely of ethnic Pashtuns, similar to what we have created in Kurdistan or Bosnia, and it would there ­fore very likely have the consent of the population on the ground†[16] -Major Michael D. Holmes Following the Soviet invasion, the United States supported diplomatic efforts to achieve a Soviet withdrawal and contributed to the refugee program in Pakistan to assist Afghans. After the Soviet withdrawal, CIA let Pak ISI deal with the ugly mess of Afghanistan. The USA initially gave a free hand to Pak to build up the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. The US wanted the Taliban to develop as a counterweight to the Iranian regime and to check USSRs influence in the region. A favourable govt in Kabul would help USA in numerous ways. With the emergence of CARs as independent countries in 1991 and the prospects of availability of huge oil and gas reserves again brought that area to international focus. Meanwhile, the Taliban on capturing Kabul, imposed a strict Islamic code and practiced fundamentalist policies. This led to the USA gradually distancing itself from the Taliban. Post September 11, 2001 events of cosmic proportions have resulted in world focusing on Afghanistan with a renewed interest to deal with Osama Bin Laden, who was responsible for the acts of terror originating from Afghanistan. The Osama Bin Laden Factor. Osama Bin Laden was once one of the star recruiters of the US intelligence agency the CIA. He enrolled thousands of jihad volunteers from the Middle East for a jihad against the Soviet Union in Afghanistan. Ironically after winning their jihad against the USSR, these fundamentalists turned their attention onto the other superpower. Post 9/11 led to U.S. GWOT as the Taliban refused to hand over Osama Bin Laden to the USA. Pashtun Factor. U.S. policymakers recognised early on that Pashtun support was needed to create a broader-based moment to replace the Taliban and provide a degree of stability in the region[17]. This approach appears to have long term goal of stabilising effect as U.S. has demonstrated that America supports the Pashtun desire for a stronger position in relation to the Punjabi-dominated government in Islamabad in the Af-Pak border area of Durand Line. U.S. understands that Pashtuns in FATA treasure their long-standing autonomy and do not like to be ruled by Islamabad. What they want is integration into the Northwest Frontier Province (NWFP) and FATA to form a single unified â€Å"Pashtun† province that enjoys the autonomy envisaged in the inoperative 1973 Pakistan constitution[18]. Al-Qaeda and its â€Å"foreign fighters,† who are mostly Arab, depend on local support from the Taliban for their sanctuary. Unlike Al-Qaeda, with its global terrorist agenda, most of the Tali ban factions focus on local objectives in Afghanistan and FATA; they do not pose a direct threat to the USA. On March 1, 2007, Pakistani ambassador to Washington the Maj. Gen (retired) Mahmud Ali Durrani, said at a seminar at the Pakistan Embassy, â€Å"I hope the Taliban and Pashtun nationalism dont merge. If that happens, weve had it, and were on the verge of that.[19]† India Afghanistan remained the focus of Indian regional policy because of its geo-strategic proximity to Pakistan and the Indian foreign policy was centered on maintaining very cordial relations with it. India in 1950 signed â€Å"Friendship Treaty† to promote bilateral co-operation with Afghanistan to enhance Indian influence. In 1967, the United Pashtunistan Front (UPF) was formed in New Delhi. The then Indian Foreign Minister Swaran Singh told the Indian Parliament that â€Å"we are fully aware of the fundamental freedoms and natural aspirations of the brave Pashtuns which have been consistently denied to them, and their struggle has got our greatest sympathy and we will certainly support the efforts that Khan Abdul Ghafar Khan might undertake in that direction.†[20] After the Soviet invasion in 1979 India doubled up its efforts to further strengthen its relations with Afghanistan. Over the years Indian political elite maintained close contacts with Pasthun leaders on both sides of Durand line. The two countries have always shared a healthy relationship but with the Soviet withdrawal and its disintegration in 1991 and Mujahedeens control of Kabul in April 1992 the relations reached its nadir. During Taliban rule more than 30,000 Afghan refugees moved to India. India is helping Afghanistan rebuild itself and with an ever-increasing belligerence in all fields, including military, intelligence, humanitarian, and economic[21]. India is the largest aid provider to Afghanistan and in the coming few years India likely to project as a regional power is appropriately following a pro-active approach and take the right initiatives on Afghanistan. By fostering greater economic ties with the pro-Indian Northern Alliance dominant Kabul government, New Delhi has dramatically increased its involvement in Afghanistan, and is seeking to marginalize Pakistan[22]. India would prefer a separate Pashtunistan rather than a neo-Taliban ruling over Afghanistan, as this would frustrate Pakistani strategy. India has good relations with Tajikistan and would continue to have good relations with the Tajik section of Afghanistan as well as with a newly formed Pashtunistan. The geo-strategic importance of Afghanistan has a great bearing on India and its approach is primarily Pak focused. Indias economic interests in Afghanistan are secondary to its strategic interests. Apart from the desire to restore Pakistans two-front problem, some of the factors that govern Indian approach to Afghanistan are :- (a) A pro Pak government in Afghanistan is likely to support Pakistan in case of any future Indo-Pak Conflict and would provide them necessary Strategic depth. (b) Pak has been using Taliban militia to wage a proxy war in Kashmir. (c) Afghanistan is the hub of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism[23]. (d) A peaceful and stable Afghanistan will be in the economic interests of India as it will raise the prospects of Indo-Afghanistan trade and also provide greater access to the Central Asian markets and important centers for gas and oil. (e) A fundamentalist Afghanistan is likely to encourage the spread of Islamic fundamentalism in the region which would affect India. Afghanistan constitutes a new battleground for Indo-Pakistani hostility. Credible U.S. media leaks indicate that Pakistani linkages to the car bombing of the Indian Embassy in Kabul on July 7, 2008.India, thus needs to convince Pakistan that Islamabad instead of exporting hatred and destruction, should seek positive parity with India and others in terms of improving the quality of life of its citizens in an inclusive manner. International Perspective There is no formal international position on the Durand Line, simply a de facto one that recognizes it as a real border. No other state has accepted Afghanistans position that it is not such a border. The question arises so why should there be any international pressure on Pakistan and Afghanistan to negotiate about Durand line? The reason is that since September 11, 2001, FATA and the area alongside the Durand line has been viewed as a site of global insecurity that can be controlled only when Pakistan takes responsibility for its territory and extends the structures of the state into the region through expanding opportunities for economic development and education in the FATA region[24]. This is quite difficult because the security situation is currently poor, which makes launching large development projects difficult. Afghanistans refusal to give de jure recognition to the border therefore stands in the way of a comprehensive development program that would have much more impact th an would parallel developments in each country[25]. Having driven the Taliban and Al Qaeda from Afghanistan, the United States and its allies are particularly keen to end FATAs (and to a lesser extent Baluchistans) along the Durand Line to serve as center of Islamic radicalism that promotes international terrorism and seeks to destabilize Afghanistan. The presence of U.S., International Security Assistance Force(ISAF)[26], and Afghan troops gives the border issue some practical urgency as the insurgents they fight retreat back into Pakistan in the belief that they will not be pursued or attacked across an international boundary[27]. From the perspective of the international community the discussions limited to recognition of the Durand Line as a de jure international boundary would not bring stability in the region even if they succeeded as no government in Afghanistan would be willing to pay the political price for accepting the border unless such an agreement were part of a broader package designed to make the country more secure. P akistan also has much to gain as its economy will get a boost[28]. While Afghanistan is concerned about Pakistans support of the Taliban, in times past it has been Pakistan that has been concerned about Afghanistans tacit support of Pashtun separatists[29]. Afghan Nationalism. On a functional level, Afghanistan cannot be subjectively examined under the Western conception of either a state or a nation. The country simply does not operate in any sense of either definition at this time. Both a limited security apparatus and stalled international support have done little to cultivate ancient divisions based on ethnic and religious elements[30].This relatively low level of Afghan nationalism is a result of internal conflict of last two decades with atrocities committed by all sides on ethnic rivals and forced displacements and makes the task of rekindling the flame of nationalism more difficult. Political reconstruction is the essential pre-requisite for the economic reconstruction of the country. Afghanistan is at a major crossroad of its history today. The chain of events, which has led to the present situation, was beyond the control of Afghans. But now, it is Afghans who will have to do soul searching and make some difficult choices. Afghanistans neighbours need to understand and digest the fact that the entire region will be the net winner in case Afghanistan and Pakistan are good friends. The old theories of using Afghanistan as a pawn to open a second front against any third country need to be buried. Any state which has any motivation to incite sectarian or ethnic divisions in any of its neighbours is following a zero gain policy as far as the long term interest of the entire region is concerned. This is the age of globalisation and not of any â€Å"Forward Policies†. Afghan history has proved that great issues of the day cannot be settled by fighting but by consultation and consensus[31]. Many regional and extra regional powers are trying to retain their respective spheres of influence in Afghanistan but no regional power can afford to antagonise Washington by working openly at cross purposes with its military campaign, it has to be supportive to U.S. goals and objectives in the region to meet its asp irations. The international community, including the U.S. government, has long avoided taking a clear position on the border issue, but its ambivalence is beginning to change[32]. Ghaus, Abdul Samad,The fall of Afghanistan,Pergamon-Brasseys Intenational Defense Publishers,London1988,p109. Qureshi, S.M.M. Pakhtunistan: The Frontier Dispute Between Afghanistan and Pakistan . Pacific Affairs, Vol. 39, No. 1/2 Spring Summer, 1966, pp. 99-114. . â€Å"The future of Afghanistan and Pakistan†. WTF: What the fork? . Puri, Rajinder â€Å"Defusing Af-Pak† June 7, 2009 Ghaus,Op.cit.pp148-149. Afghanistan- Conservapedia. . Tomsen, Peter. â€Å"Geopolitics of an Afghan Settlement.† Perceptions, Journal of International Affairs Dec 2000 Feb 2001, Volume 5, Number 4. . Hussain, Hamid, â€Å"Afghanistan not so great games† Robert D. Kaplan. â€Å"Beijings Afghan Gamble†. The Center for a New American Security Khattak, Afrasiab. Interview with ICG, Chairman, Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), Peshawar, May 2002. Hussain, Dr. Rifaat â€Å"Pakistans Relations with Afghanistan: Continuity and Change.† The International Crisis Group, â€Å"Afghanistan:The Problem of Pashtun Alienation†.5 August 2003. . ibid. Bhatt, Garurang. â€Å"Coming Chaos in Afghanistan†.23 Aug 2006. Bokhari, Kamran and Burton Fred, â€Å" The Counterinsurgency in Pakistan† Aug 13,2009. . Holmes, Major Michael D. â€Å"Secessionist Jihad: The Talibans Struggle for Pashtunistan,† the Military Intelligence Professional Bulletin, On the Horizon: MI Missions of the Near Future, July-September 2008 Zalmay, Khalilzad and Daniel, Byman, â€Å"Afghanistan: the Consolidation of a Rogue State†, The Washington Quarterly, Vol. 23, No. 1 (Winter 2000), p. 74. Selig S. Harrison, â€Å"Pakistan: The State of the Union† Ibid. Owen, Bennett Jones Nationalism in Pakistan: Eye of the Storm, New Haven: Yale University Press, 2002,p. 139. Bhadrakumar, M.K. â€Å"India and the Central Asian Dawn†. The Hindu. 31 Dec 2009. Zaman, Aly, â€Å"Indias Increased Involvement in Afghanistan and Central Asia: Implications for Pakistan,† Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) Journal, Vol. 3, N0.2 (Summer 2003), Bhadrakumar, M.K. â€Å"Indian Interests in Regional Security†. The Hindu. 28 Aug 2009. Subramanian Nirupama, â€Å"Gilgit-Baltistan Autonomy wins few Friends†. The Hindu. 30 Nov 2009. Barfield, Thomas, The Durand Line: History, Consequences, and Future. Conference Organized by the American Institute of Afghanistan Studies and the Hollings Center in Istanbul, Turkey November 2007. â€Å"Across the Durrand Line†. Editorial. The Dawn 24 July 2008. . Bhadrakumar, M.K. Loc.cit. Maitra, Ramtanu, â€Å"Central Asia: Dangerous Line in the Sand†.13 March 2003. . The Durand Line: History, Consequences and Future Istanbul, Turkey July 11-13, 2007 Feiser, Jonathan, â€Å"Central Asia The ghost of GreaterAfghanistan† Jul 23, 2003 Amin, Agha. â€Å"Durand Line-Afghanistan-Pakistan-Border Disputes† Journal of Afghanistan Studies Kabul, November 2004. Neumann, Ronald, â€Å"Borderline Insanity: Thinking Big about Afghanistan† The American Interest, November December 2007 issue.

Action Potential Essay

What opens first in response to a threshold stimulus? Voltage Gated (activation gates) Na+ channels open and Na+ diffuses in the cytoplasm What characterizes depolarization, 1st phase of action potential? Membrane changes from a negative value to a positive value What characterizes repolarization, 2nd phase of action potential? Once the membrane depolarizes to a peak value of 30+, it repolarizes to to its negative resting value of -70 What event triggers the generation of an action potential? The membrane potential must depolarize from the resting voltage of -70 mV to a threshold value of -55 mV. ( This is the minimum value required to open enough voltage-gated Na+ channels so that depolarization is irreversible.) What is the first change to occur in response to a threshold stimulus? Voltage-gated Na+ channels change shape, and their activation gates open Resting State All gated Na+ and K+ channels are closed Step 2 Depolarization; Na+ Channels Open During the depolarization phase of the action potential, open Na+ channels allow Na+ ions to diffuse into the cell. This inward movement of positive charge makes the membrane potential more positive (less negative). The depolarization phase is a positive feedback cycle where open Na+ channels cause depolarization, which in turn causes more voltage-gated Na+ channels to open. Step 3 Repolarization; Na+ channels are inactivating and K+ Channels Open Step 4 Hyperpolarization; Some K+ channels remain open and Na+ channels reset How many gates/states do voltage gated Na+ channels have? two gates and three states Closed Na+ at the resting state, no Na+ enters the cell through them Opened Na+ opened by depolariztion, allowing Na+ to enter the cell Inactivated channels automatically blocked by inactivation gates soon after they open How many gates/states do voltage gated K+ channels have? one gate, two states Closed K+ at the resting state, no K+ leaves Opened K+ at depolarization, after delay, allowing K+ to leave Why is an action potential self-generating? depolarizing currents established by the influx of Na+ flow down the axon and trigger an action potential at the next segment The Na+ diffusing into the axon during the first phase of the action potential creates a depolarizing current that brings the next segment, or node, of the axon to threshold. Why does regeneration of the action potential occur in one direction, rather than in two directions? The inactivation gates of voltage-gated Na+ channels close in the node, or segment, that has just fired an action potential At the peak of the depolarization phase of the action potential, the inactivation gates close. Thus, the voltage-gated Na+ channels become absolutely refractory to another depolarizing stimulus. What changes occur to voltage-gated Na+ and K+ channels at the peak of depolarization? Inactivation gates of voltage-gated Na+ channels close, while activation gates of voltage-gated K+ channels open Closing of voltage-gated channels is time dependent. Typically, the inactivation gates of voltage-gated Na+ channels close about a millisecond after the activation gates open. At the same time, the activation gates of voltage-gated K+ channels open. What marks the end of the depolarization phase? As voltage-gated Na+ channels begin to inactivate, the membrane potential stops becoming more positive This marks the end of the depolarization phase of the action potential. Then, as voltage-gated K+ channels open, K+ ions rush out of the neuron, following their electrochemical gradient. This exit of positively-charged ions causes the interior of the cell to become more negative, repolarizing the membrane. The repolarization phase of the action potential, where voltage becomes more negative after the +30mV peak, is caused primarily by __________. The opening of voltage-gated K+ channels allows K+ ions to exit the cell, repolarizing the membrane. In other words, the exit of K+ ions makes the membrane potential more negative. K+ also exits through leakage channels during this phase because leakage channels are always active. However, most of the membrane permeability to K+ during this phase is due to voltage-gated channels. Voltage-gated K+ channels make the action potential more brief than it would otherwise be if only leakage channels were available to repolarize the membrane. During an action potential, hyperpolarization beyond (more negative to) the resting membrane potential is primarily due to __________. The large number of voltage-gated K+ channels opening during the repolarization phase quickly makes the membrane potential more negative as positively-charged K+ ions leave the cell. K+ ions continue to leave through open channels as the membrane potential passes (becomes more negative than) the resting potential. This hyperpolarization phase of the action potential is therefore due to K+ ions diffusing through voltage-gated K+ channels. The membrane potential remains more negative than the resting potential until voltage-gated K+ channels close. This period of hyperpolarization is important in relieving voltage-gated Na+ channels from inactivation, readying them for another action potential. During the hyperpolarization phase of the action potential, when the membrane potential is more negative than the resting membrane potential, what happens to voltage-gated ion channels? Voltage-gated K+ channels are opened by depolarization. This means that as the membrane potential repolarizes and then hyperpolarizes, these K+ channels close. With the closing of voltage-gated K+ channels, the membrane potential returns to the resting membrane potential via leakage channel activity. Resetting voltage-gated Na+ channels to the closed (but not inactivated) state prepares them for the next action potential. During the hyperpolarization phase of the action potential, voltage eventually returns to the resting membrane potential. What processes are primarily responsible for this return to the resting membrane potential? Voltage-gated K+ channels close. K+ and Na+ diffuse through leakage channels.

The Issue Of Gun Control Laws Essay - 1578 Words

GUN CONTROL LAWS There is a need in this country for gun control laws as well as benefits for the citizenry who own them. With the current state of our society these days, owning a gun has become a necessity for some, if not all, household. I, myself, conform for every household having a gun. Although we have our police force always ready to rescue anyone in distress, every second matters when we are facing face to face with danger. Granted that the authorities are already underway, having something on hand to defend one’s self is the most important thing for the time being. Though I believe that everybody needs to be educated on how to protect our own safety in a close contact combat, it is as important as being knowledgeable in handling and using guns for short-range/long-range threats. Ideally, having knowledge of both is of greater advantage. However, if one can’t have both, owning a gun can always come in handy. But, should we regulate or ban the use of weapons? My standpoint is No . With this in mind, it is necessary to be informed of the responsibilities, advantages and disadvantages of owning a gun. Additionally, we will tackle the National Firearms Act of 1934, which addresses taxing the firearms that only covers two types of handguns. Even more, the Gun Control Act of 1968, the legislation that was passed to regulate interstate and foreign commerce in firearms which includes the importation, prohibited persons and licensing provisions. As well as the Brady Law,Show MoreRelatedThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws861 Words   |  4 Pagesgovernment has the responsibility to protect people. Currently, the gun violence has threatened the American public safety, people used gun to kill many people for their own interests. The United States constitution believes Americans have their own gun to protect themselves. Some people said guns will protect their life easily. Whether, America should have strict gun control laws or not bring about the debate in society. Gun issue is not only a big problem from United States, it’s also a big problemRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws1407 Words   |  6 Pagesits path. There is no exact definition of mass shootings, but most sources believe it is when four or more people are shot in one location. Citizens in America are easily able to obtain a gun and the growing issue is whether this should change and stronger laws in place. Although citizens believe gun control laws take away second amendment and right to protect themselves, mass shootings are increasing yearly and action needs to happen to prevent the next attack. America’s at a high withRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws1701 Words   |  7 PagesA gun has the capacity to convert a conflict into a serious crime. The power of a gun is vast. But it the power of the gun is appreciated in right hands. The effects of a gun can be cherished when it is used by right hands and with the right intention. The effects of the gun are condemned when it reaches in wrong hands. A gun can protect as well as end someone’s life. When it ends the life of a criminal, it is a sign of bravery but when it takes the lives of innocent people it is condemned. ThereforeRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws1410 Words   |  6 Pagesto have and remain fight prepared. Regardless, this has remained a basic issue since decades. There have been a lot of senseless murders and killings around the United States. With better gun control laws in effect these killings and murders would not have been possible. The government, the states, and the peopl e all need to work together to come to a solution to prevent things like this in the future. Better gun control laws would mean less killings and murders happening around the world. Think ofRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws1536 Words   |  7 Pagesright to bear arms. This Amendment, when written had no limitations or constraints, however there seems to be more laws than ever trying to govern or ban the carrying and even ownership of firearms as a whole. Many say that the reasons for the attempt of gun control laws are due to the safety of the public nevertheless if you look at the statistics themselves it shows that armed law bidding citizens stop more violent crime involving and not involving firearms if armed than the police department,Read MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws852 Words   |  4 PagesIn about every nation, gun control has always been an issue of controversy. Gun control laws are quite different from country to country, each possessing different requirements, specifications, and ordinances, so on and so on. What will be examined are the specified gun control laws in three international countries, ranging from Canada, Australia, and Japan, as well as a comparison and contrast of the the similarities and unique differences toward American gun control laws and those in other countriesRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws2761 Words   |  12 PagesOne of the most debated topics in the U.S. is about gun control laws. Constant dispute between citizens and the government shows that there are two sides; for or against control. Arguments, whether oral or written, point out various ways how it can either help or hurt our society here in the United States of America. Most people however agree by reinforcing these laws violates the citizen’s 2nd Amendment rights which states, â€Å"A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free StateRead MoreEssay about The Issue of Stricter Gun Control Laws1861 Words   |  8 PagesT he issue of stricter gun control laws is an on-going battle that continues to be debated at both the local and federal levels. Regardless of one’s viewpoint on the matter, this subject makes for a very passionate debate on both sides. At question is whether or not stricter laws and regulations help reduce the number of gun-related crimes. Obviously, the answers vary greatly depending on the strongly held viewpoint of the responders. Often, horrible gun-related crimes are committed by peopleRead Moregun control research essay1222 Words   |  5 Pagesarticle that studied gun control. â€Å"Stricter state gun laws associated with fewer gun deaths, study finds.† The article discussed gun control laws in states with stricter laws tend to have lower rates of gun related homicides, and a suicide (ProCon para. 1) Gun control in the United States is becoming a wide spread issue and is becoming a problem everywhere. Although I am living in a city with uprising crime that has been skyrocketing over the years, I wasn’t aware of this being an issue all over the UnitedRead MoreGun Control1724 Words   |  7 PagesEnglish 1302 5th march 2013 Sides of Crime Control Gun control laws have been surrounded by controversy since The Bill of Rights, including the Second amendment was passed in the congress. A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed, the founders wrote. Until recently there was considerable argument over just what the founders intended by their words. Did they mean to provide only for armed

The Series Of The Family Produced By Norman Milton

The series All in the Family produced by Norman Milton Lear from 1971-1979 is one of the most controversial and groundbreaking television shows ever created. The successful sitcom has covered many touchy subjects involving race, ethnicity, homosexuality, rape, and religious beliefs. Towards the end of the third season, episode 20 which was called â€Å"Archie is Branded†, aired on February 24th 1973 touched many subjects that were heavily debated on the fact of whether or not it was appropriate to air on live television. The lead male characters Mike and Archie get in a heated argument about the Vietnam War. This sensitive subject caused and led several additional current historical issues and events. The original hit show, All in the Family featuring Carroll O’Connor (Archie), Jean Stapleton (Edith), Rob Reiner (Michael) and Sally Struthers, (Gloria) is an American sitcom that challenges numerous controversial topics during its era. This specific episode â€Å"Archie’s Branded† aired on February 24th 1973 and was about the bunker family being â€Å"branded† with a swastika painted on their front door. When going to retrieve the news paper, opening the door, Archie, realizes someone has painted a swastika on his door with a note that said, â€Å"This DeMark 2 swastika was just the beginning, we’ll be back†. After receiving such a serious threat from this anonymous person/persons, Archie and the others decided to call the police. With several minutes passing, the doorbell rings. Thinking itShow MoreRelatedEssay Dualism in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho1454 Words   |  6 Pagesjust one example of many that Hitchcock has placed in this film. Marion Crane is the first main character that is focused upon for the first half of Psycho. â€Å"All that Marion Wants, after all, are the humble treasures of love, marriage, home, and family.† (Brill 227) [up and down] This is the reason why Marion steals the money in the first place. The money is her first real chance at escaping the life of meeting at cheap hotels in secret. The opening scene shows the lack of money and personal isolationRead MoreAll in the Family821 Words   |  3 PagesAll in the Family In 1971, New York Times columnist Fred Ferretti wrote an article about a new television series called All in the Family. Ferretti asked, whether or not if racism and bigotry were considered funny and he concluded that it was not and as a result believed that the show was lacking good taste. Apparently, the television viewers of America disagreed. Running from 1971 to 1979, All In The Family wasn’t the first television series to tackle major issues on a major network, but what wasRead More Rosenberg Spies Essay4285 Words   |  18 Pagescorresponding page that every KGB officer was given. Because the American ciphers did not have the corresponding page, there were an infinite number of possibilities that could have corresponded to the book, making deciphering it impossible. (Milton 7) Klaus Fuchs In 1944, the FBI raided the New York offices of the Soviet Government Purchasing Commission, a known front for the KGB industrial espionage operations. When the FBI began to go through what they had taken, they found that manyRead MoreEssay about Summary of History of Graphic Design by Meggs14945 Words   |  60 Pagesmost of Europe. - Many people feared that the year 1000 AD would be the end of the world. - On New Years Ever, 999 AD, many people stripped naked, and lay on their roofs waiting for final judgment. - By 1150 AD, Bibles were becoming massively produced. - During the 1200’s, the rise of universities created an expanding market for books. - The Book of Revelation had a surge of unexplained popularity in England and France during the 1200s. - The Douce Apocalypse written in 1265 AD, is one ofRead MoreEssay on The Gothic Genre and What it Entails6177 Words   |  25 Pages To be fair though, this was written some time after Frankensteins first publication. Frankensteins monster could easily be a symbol of misguided radicalism them, a kind which Mary had no wish to ally herself to, a kind which produced Robespierre and resurrected the guillotine, which smashes machines and scoffs at monarchy. Whether this is true or not the monster is certainly a victim of injustice. He was born innocent in accordance with the principle of theRead MoreSummary of She Dwelt Among the Untrodden Ways11655 Words   |  47 Pagesfirst drafts of The Lucy poems[1] The Lucy poems are a series of five poems composed by the English Romantic poet William Wordsworth (1770–1850) between 1798 and 1801. All but one were first published during 1800 in the second edition of Lyrical Ballads, a collaboration between Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge that was both Wordsworths first major publication and a milestone in the early English Romantic movement.[A 1] In the series, Wordsworth sought to write unaffected English verse infusedRead MoreInfluence of Immigration on the American Culture and Language14362 Words   |  58 Pagesevery day in newspapers and magazines, giving the latest news, trend, or scandal in the United States. Then there are those special TV documentaries on problems in America and on the American way of life. We shouldnt forget the many television series, the cops in the big cities, the cowboys out West, the rich in their beds and boardrooms. Popular novels and even comic books which have American scenes and characters sell well in most countries, too. There are posters, feature films, cartoons, greetingRead MoreNew World Order in Conspiracy Theory13987 Words   |  56 Pagesone peels away the layers of the  Masonic conspiracy, past the  Illuminati, one finds the rotten Jewish core.[13] The Protocols  has been proven by polemicists, such as Irish journalist  Philip Graves  in a 1921  The Times  article, and British academic  Norman Cohn  in his 1967 book  Warrant for Genocide, to be both a  hoax  and a clear case of plagiarism. There is general agreement that Russian-French writer and political activist  Matvei Golovinski  fabricated the text for  Okhrana, the  secret police  of the  RussianRead MorePrinciples of Microeconomics Fifth Canadian Edition20085 Words   |  81 Pagesresearch underlying these principles. The structure of the Classroom Engagement Activities was created by Dr. Roger Fisher and validated by an interdisciplinary editorial advisory board of scholars of teaching and learning. 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The Relationship Between Anxiety And Depression - 1433 Words

Scores from this measure ranged from 16 to 80, with 60 being classified as experiencing GAD. Scores were almost the same between the pregnant and postpartum women. Many women met the clinical cutoff for depressive, insomnia, and generalized anxiety symptoms. The measures (ISI=0.87, EPDS=0.85, PSWQ=0.95) all scored above the clinical threshold. All three measures were also correlated in each group and in the total sample. Studies suggested that the relationship between depression symptoms and insomnia symptoms was influenced by generalized anxiety disorder in pregnant women. Symptoms of depression were present in 75% of the women and 61% had generalized anxiety disorder. Therefore the study suggested that the contribution of the two†¦show more content†¦There were 240 pregnant women split into 2 evenly groups. Group one consisted of pregnant women that experienced a traumatic event such as early neonatal death, fetal loss before 20 weeks, and preterm birth. Group 2 consisted of women without any adverse during pregnancy. Group 1 received antenatal care either from the high-risk clinic or the tertiary hospital, while group 2 received care at the other two healthcare units. Whoever met the criteria were asked to volunteer in the study. During the evaluation, they used two methods. The Short form-36 (SF-36), validated in 1999 which was used to evaluate physical and mental health perceived by the quality of life and The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale that was used to detect clinical cases of anxiety and depression. Both questionnaires were then applied after the investigator collected sociodemographic variables which took 20 minutes each. Sociodemographic variables included previous alcoholism or drug addiction, race, marital status, maternal age, family income, education and previous pregnancy history. The results from SF-36 and the HADS were compared using two different test. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for the SF-36, while the HADS used the chi-square test. Group 1 and 2 had remarkable differences of variables evaluated. The study outcome suggested that symptoms of anxiety and depression were higher among the pregnant women in group 1 than in group 2. In this study, prenatalShow MoreRelatedRelationship Between Depression And Anxiety980 Words   |  4 Pages For the midterm paper I have chosen to discuss the relationship between depression and anxiety in transgender people. For this paper I am using Transgender to mean: â€Å" a term used to describe people whose gender identity differs from the sex the doctor marked on their birth certificate.† (Gladd.org) The reason I chose this social issue is with modern media with individuals such as Caitlyn Jenner and shows like Orange is the New Black; we are learning more about Transgender. 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Spearman’s correlation coefficient will be used to analyze the relationship between the anxiety and depression of the floor nurses. Statistical software S tatistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) will be used for data analysis. SPSS is a computer application, which supportsRead MoreAn Investigation into the Relationship between Anxiety and Depression among University Students1372 Words   |  6 PagesAccording to Merriam Webster online dictionary anxiety is â€Å"An abnormal and overwhelming sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physiological signs (as sweating, tension, and increased pulse), by doubt concerning the reality and nature of the threat, and by self-doubt about ones capacity to cope with it†. 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Strong links throughcertain illnesses and disorders like asthma and headaches are being configured through specific chemicals in the brain. Two examples being serotonin receptors and corticotropin releasing factor receptor1. Certain combinations of the two can lead to a change in energy leveles causing both anxiety and depression to occur atRead MoreThe Concept Of Coping : Postpartum Depression And Anxiety Essay1308 Words   |  6 PagesThe concept of coping is a relationship between a person and their environment involving human cognition, individual perception, and behavior (Giddens, 2013). The two exemplars that will be addressed in the following sections are postpartum depression and anxiety. Postpartum Depression Postpartum depression (PPD) can be described as a period of depression that begins following childbirth lasting more than two weeks (Camp, 2013). Up to 15% of women suffer from depression during the first three monthsRead MoreVariations in the Experience of Depression1302 Words   |  5 PagesGender Differences in Depression This focus elaborates the place of gender in determining depression levels. It states that females experience twice as much depression as men. This is as a result of social forces and cognitive behavioral differences between women and men. The focus notes that women in communities with distinct traditional gender roles tend to have higher stress levels than societies where there are no major divides between gender roles. 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American Films and Ripped Jeans Skin Free Essays

string(6239) " when You name the day And I will pick the city We’ll fly away Till then, call me when you miss me If you’re asking if I’d really like to see you again I say oh†¦ just say when Two different worlds I thought they’d keep us apart I’m ignoring my head Follow my heart Oh you pick the day And I will pick the city We’ll fly away Till then, call me when you miss me I am willing to wait Cause I just gotta see you again Don’t ask no†¦ just say when Just say when†¦ I could take a picture Of you and me together No one would believe me No one would believe me TALK TO ME Every morning As I go walking by I feel you looking That’s why I take my time Oh oh yeah Bows and flows of angel hair And ice-cream castles in the air Feather cannons everywhere I’ve looked at clouds that way JUST A STEP AWAY Talk to me, why won’t you talk to me Can’t you see I’m burning up When you look like that And I’m looking right back Why don’t you talk to me Walk with me baby When he’s singing his song Well all the young girls sigh And we’ll be wearing those things That make a grown man cry Oh oh yeah yeah I’VE BEEN YOURS FROM THE START I can see what ‘cha wanna do to me You can feel it something’s gonna break Well I’m in if you’re in Let’s make a big mistake Talk to me, why won’t you talk to me Can’t you see I’m burning up When you look like that And I’m looking right back Why don’t you talk to me Walk with me baby Come on take me away I’ve been yours from the start Summer nights, summer days I’ll be your summer heart Come on take me away I’ve been yours from the start†¦ When it’s love like that And you look like that Talk to me, why won’t ‘cha talk to me Can’t you see I’m burning up When you look like that And I’m looking right back Why don’t ‘cha talk to me Walk with me baby Come on take me away I’ve been yours from the start Summer nights, summer days I’ll be your summer heart Come on take me away I’ve been yours from the start Talk to me, why won’t you talk to me Can’t you see I’m burning up When you look like that And I’m looking right back Why don’t you talk to me talk to me Why won’t ‘cha talk to me In the space between the words In the silence of your eyes In the hands that know the touch It’s the way I feel inside Here we are Dancing cross this floor together With every step I take I seem to want you more than ever You made me love you Look into my eyes I want to tell you I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if your ever feeling down I’m just a step away I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if your ever feeling down I’m just a step, just a step, just a step away It’s the beating of your heart It’s the tear I have to hide It’s the sound of your guitar It’s the way I feel inside Here we are Dancing cross this floor together With every step I take I seem to want you more than ever You made me love you Look into my eyes I want to tell you If you need a shoulder Or someone to hold you I’ll keep my arms open wide I’ll be the one who loves you I’ll be right there by your side Here we are Dancing cross this floor together With every step I take I seem to want you more than ever You made me love you Look into my eyes I want to tell you I’ll never let you down \(I’ll never let you down\) And I’ll never go away \(And I’ll never go away\) And if your ever feeling down \(And if your ever feeling down\) I’m just a step away I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if your ever feeling down I’m just a step away I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if you’re ever feeling down I’m just a step, just a step, just a step away In the space between the words In the silence of your eyes In the hands that know the touch It’s the way I feel inside IN THE SPACE BETWEEN THE WORDS I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if your ever feeling down I’m just a step away I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if your ever feeling down I’m just a step, just a step, just a step away Now they only block the sun They rain and snow on everyone So many things I would have done But clouds got in my way I’ve looked at clouds from both sides now TEARS AND FEARS AND FEELING PROUD TO SAY I LOVE YOU RIGHT OUT LOUD DREAMS AND SCHEMES AND CIRCUS CROWDS I can see what ‘cha wanna do to me You can feel it something’s gonna break Well I’m in if you’re in Let’s make a big mistake BOTH SIDES NOW I’ve looked at clouds from both sides now From up and down and still somehow It’s clouds illusions I recall I really don’t know clouds at all Moons and Junes and ferris wheels The dizzy, dancing way you feel When every fairy tale comes real I’ve looked at love that way But now it’s just another show You leave ’em laughing when you go And if you care don’t let them know Don’t give yourself away I’ve looked at love from both sides now From give and take and still somehow It’s loves illusions I recall I really don’t know love at all Tears and fears and feeling proud To say I love you right out loud Dreams and schemes and circus crowds I’ve looked at life that way But now old friends are acting strange They shake their heads They say I’ve changed Well somethings lost and somethings gained in living every day I’ve looked at life from both sides now I’ve looked at life from both sides now From win and loose and still somehow It’s lifes illusions I recall I really don’t know life I’ve looked at clouds from both sides now From up and down and still somehow It’s clouds illusions I recall I really don’t know clouds at all I really don’t know life at all THANK YOU: To YOU†¦ Thanks for listening and making all of this possible\." CARLY RAE JEPSEN CURIOSITY EP p c 2012 604 RECORDS INC. #101 – 1001 WEST BROADWAY, UNIT 362, VANCOUVER, BC V6H 4E4. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. We will write a custom essay sample on American Films and Ripped Jeans Skin or any similar topic only for you Order Now MANUFACTURED AND DISTRIBUTED BY UNIVERSAL MUSIC CANADA. , 2450 VICTORIA PARK AVE. , SUITE #1, TORONTO, ONTARIO M2J 5H3. UNAUTHORIZED REPRODUCTION, COPYING AND RENTAL OF THIS RECORDING IS PROHIBITED BY LAW. I threw a wish in the well Don’t ask me I’ll never tell I looked at you as it fell And now you’re in my way I trade my soul for a wish Pennies and dimes for a kiss I wasn’t looking for this But now you’re in my way Your stare was holding Ripped jeans Skin was showing Hot night Wind was blowing Where you think you’re going baby? Hey I just met you And this is crazy But here’s my number So call me maybe It’s hard to look right at you baby But here’s my number So call me maybe Hey I just met you And this is crazy But here’s my number So call me maybe And all the other boys Try to chase me But here’s my number So call me maybe You took your time with the call I took no time with the fall You gave me nothing at all But still you’re in my way I beg and borrow and steal At first sight and it’s real I didn’t know I would feel it But it’s in my way Your stare was holding Ripped jeans Skin was showing Hot night Wind was blowing Where you think you’re going baby? Break a bone Got me on my knees You break my heart Just to watch it bleed Hey I just met you And this is crazy But here’s my number So call me maybe It’s hard to look right at you baby But here’s my number So call me maybe I’m sick with love Sick like a disease Don’t call me up Just so I can please you Hey I just met you And this is crazy But here’s my number So call me maybe And all the other boys Try to chase me But here’s my number So call me maybe Before you came into my life I missed you so bad I missed you so bad I missed you so so bad Before you came into my life I missed you so bad And you should know that So call me maybe So don’t break me tonight This is crazy love And you know I’m gunna follow you home Through the rain Cause I need your love And you know I’m gunna follow you home I can’t stand the way you’re smiling I can’t stand the way I’m lying Before you came into my life I missed you so bad I missed you so bad I missed you so so bad Before you came into my life I missed you so bad And you should know that I missed you so so bad, bad, bad, bad†¦. It’s hard to look right at you baby But here’s my number So call me maybe Oh oh oh oh oh oh Uh oh Oh oh oh oh oh oh Will never let me go Oh oh oh oh oh oh Uh oh Curiosity CURIOSITY I know, I know, I know you got the key And you know, you know, you know that it’s for me It’s not up to you, you know it’s up to me but Curiosity will never let me go Oh oh oh oh oh oh Uh oh Oh oh oh oh oh oh Will never let me go Oh oh oh oh oh oh Uh oh Oh oh oh oh oh oh Look at me Left here in the corner Stupid girl I really tried to warn her Walked the streets all night Until you came around Knew that you would come Before you ever even made a sound I know, I know, I know you got the key And you know, you know, you know that it’s for me It’s not up to you, you know it’s up to me but Curiosity will never let me go PICTURE Cause I need your love and you know I’m going to follow you†¦ I know, I know, I know you got the key You know, you know, you know that it’s for me Well I think that we should try it out to see yeah Curiosity So don’t break me tonight This is crazy love And you know I’m gunna follow you home Through the rain Cause I need your love Yes I need your love So don’t break (don’t break) me tonight (me tonight) This is crazy love And you know I’m gunna follow you home Through the rain Cause I need your love Yes I need your love Will never let me go Oh oh oh oh oh oh Uh oh Oh oh oh oh oh oh Will never let me go Oh oh oh oh oh oh Uh oh Curiosity will never let me go I could take a picture Of you and me together No one would believe me No one would believe me TWO DIFFERENT WORLDS I THOUGHT THEY’D KEEP US APART I’M IGNORING MY HEAD FOLLOW MY HEART CALL ME MAYBE Say it in a whisper That baby it don’t get much better Would I like to see you again? You name the day And I will pick the city We’ll fly away Till then, call me when you miss me If you’re asking if I’d really like to see you again I say oh†¦ just say when Tell me that you feel it This you and me together No one would believe me Even I cannot believe it You kiss me like you mean it Oh baby, it don’t get much better Would I like to see you again? Darling just say when You name the day And I will pick the city We’ll fly away Till then, call me when you miss me If you’re asking if I’d really like to see you again I say oh†¦ just say when Two different worlds I thought they’d keep us apart I’m ignoring my head Follow my heart Oh you pick the day And I will pick the city We’ll fly away Till then, call me when you miss me I am willing to wait Cause I just gotta see you again Don’t ask no†¦ just say when Just say when†¦ I could take a picture Of you and me together No one would believe me No one would believe me TALK TO ME Every morning As I go walking by I feel you looking That’s why I take my time Oh oh yeah Bows and flows of angel hair And ice-cream castles in the air Feather cannons everywhere I’ve looked at clouds that way JUST A STEP AWAY Talk to me, why won’t you talk to me Can’t you see I’m burning up When you look like that And I’m looking right back Why don’t you talk to me Walk with me baby When he’s singing his song Well all the young girls sigh And we’ll be wearing those things That make a grown man cry Oh oh yeah yeah I’VE BEEN YOURS FROM THE START I can see what ‘cha wanna do to me You can feel it something’s gonna break Well I’m in if you’re in Let’s make a big mistake Talk to me, why won’t you talk to me Can’t you see I’m burning up When you look like that And I’m looking right back Why don’t you talk to me Walk with me baby Come on take me away I’ve been yours from the start Summer nights, summer days I’ll be your summer heart Come on take me away I’ve been yours from the start†¦ When it’s love like that And you look like that Talk to me, why won’t ‘cha talk to me Can’t you see I’m burning up When you look like that And I’m looking right back Why don’t ‘cha talk to me Walk with me baby Come on take me away I’ve been yours from the start Summer nights, summer days I’ll be your summer heart Come on take me away I’ve been yours from the start Talk to me, why won’t you talk to me Can’t you see I’m burning up When you look like that And I’m looking right back Why don’t you talk to me talk to me Why won’t ‘cha talk to me In the space between the words In the silence of your eyes In the hands that know the touch It’s the way I feel inside Here we are Dancing cross this floor together With every step I take I seem to want you more than ever You made me love you Look into my eyes I want to tell you I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if your ever feeling down I’m just a step away I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if your ever feeling down I’m just a step, just a step, just a step away It’s the beating of your heart It’s the tear I have to hide It’s the sound of your guitar It’s the way I feel inside Here we are Dancing cross this floor together With every step I take I seem to want you more than ever You made me love you Look into my eyes I want to tell you If you need a shoulder Or someone to hold you I’ll keep my arms open wide I’ll be the one who loves you I’ll be right there by your side Here we are Dancing cross this floor together With every step I take I seem to want you more than ever You made me love you Look into my eyes I want to tell you I’ll never let you down (I’ll never let you down) And I’ll never go away (And I’ll never go away) And if your ever feeling down (And if your ever feeling down) I’m just a step away I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if your ever feeling down I’m just a step away I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if you’re ever feeling down I’m just a step, just a step, just a step away In the space between the words In the silence of your eyes In the hands that know the touch It’s the way I feel inside IN THE SPACE BETWEEN THE WORDS I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if your ever feeling down I’m just a step away I’ll never let you down And I’ll never go away And if your ever feeling down I’m just a step, just a step, just a step away Now they only block the sun They rain and snow on everyone So many things I would have done But clouds got in my way I’ve looked at clouds from both sides now TEARS AND FEARS AND FEELING PROUD TO SAY I LOVE YOU RIGHT OUT LOUD DREAMS AND SCHEMES AND CIRCUS CROWDS I can see what ‘cha wanna do to me You can feel it something’s gonna break Well I’m in if you’re in Let’s make a big mistake BOTH SIDES NOW I’ve looked at clouds from both sides now From up and down and still somehow It’s clouds illusions I recall I really don’t know clouds at all Moons and Junes and ferris wheels The dizzy, dancing way you feel When every fairy tale comes real I’ve looked at love that way But now it’s just another show You leave ’em laughing when you go And if you care don’t let them know Don’t give yourself away I’ve looked at love from both sides now From give and take and still somehow It’s loves illusions I recall I really don’t know love at all Tears and fears and feeling proud To say I love you right out loud Dreams and schemes and circus crowds I’ve looked at life that way But now old friends are acting strange They shake their heads They say I’ve changed Well somethings lost and somethings gained in living every day I’ve looked at life from both sides now I’ve looked at life from both sides now From win and loose and still somehow It’s lifes illusions I recall I really don’t know life I’ve looked at clouds from both sides now From up and down and still somehow It’s clouds illusions I recall I really don’t know clouds at all I really don’t know life at all THANK YOU: To YOU†¦ Thanks for listening and making all of this possible. 🙂 Dad, Patty, Mom, Ron, Colin, Kaela and Katie How to cite American Films and Ripped Jeans Skin, Papers

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Ecommerce Essay Example For Students

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Ecommerce Essay E-CommerceWith the astonishing growth of the Internet, many companies are finding new and exciting ways to expand upon their business opportunities. There are very fewsuccessful companies that do not use computers in their everyday business activities, which also means there are few companies that do not use e-commerce. To emphasize the point that the effect of the Internet is so widespread in today’s business communities, one online article stated that more than 100000 companies have Internet addresses, and 20000 companies have home pages on the Internet as of February 1999 (DataQuest, 1999). These numbers have more than tripled since 1995, and the trend shows no signs of slowing. But what exactly is e-commerce? To most casual Internet surfers, e-commerce means online shopping and workaholics pointing their web browser to Amazon.com to order an emergency present because they forgot someone’s birthday again (Weiss, 1999). As we will soon find out, this is far from the c ase. Simply put, e-commerce is the exchange of business information between two or more organizations. An example of this would be buying and selling products or services over the Internet. E-commerce became very popular, soon after it proved to be an efficient means to conduct long distance transactions. The purpose of this report is to discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages e-commerce, as well as examining its potential for the future of business. Electronic commerce, or e-commerce has developed very rapidly in the last few years and has left some people wondering what it is all about. Most people think e-commerce is just about buying and selling things over the Internet, said Wareham (Wareham, 2000). E-commerce is a broad term describing the electronic exchange of business data between two or more organizations computers. Some examples might be the electronic filing of your income tax return, on-line services like Prodigy, and on-line billing for services or products re ceived. E-commerce also includes buying and selling any item over the Internet, electronic fund transfer, smart cards, and all other methods of conducting business over digital networks. The primary technological goal of e-commerce is to integrate businesses, government agencies, and contractors into a single community with the ability to communicate with one another across any computer platform (Edwards, 1998). Electronic commerce was built on a foundation that was started more than 125 years ago with Western Unions money transfer as an example of telegraph technology. In the early 1900’s the advent of credit cards as a payment system revolutionised the process of automated commerce functions. In the mid 1980’s the introduction of the ATM card was the latest improvement to electronic commerce. The Internet was conceived in 1969 when the Department of Defence began funding the research of computer networking. The Internet, as a means for commerce, did not become reality until the 1990’s. Before this time, it was mainly a tool for the army, and a research device for some American universities. Its popularity grew when it proved to become a fast and efficient means to conduct long distance transactions, as well as an effective way to distribute information. Economic impact clearly, E-commerce will change the face of business forever. Companies that are thousands of miles a way can complete business transactions in a matter of seconds as well as exchange information. As one online article explained: Dell Computers sells more than $14 million worth of computer equipment a day from its web site. By taking their customer service department to the web Federal Express began saving $10,000 a day. The Internet provides businesses with the opportunity to sell their products to millions of people, in 24 hours a day (Baxton, 1999). Figure #1 shows the amount of revenues generated by the on the Internet dating back to 1996 as well as estimating possible revenues through the year 2002. With 1998, revenue equaling almost 74 billion dollars and experts predicting that it will climb to as much as 1,234 billion dollars by the year 2002, anyone can see that e-commerce is the wave of the future. Figure #1- Internet generated revenues in US dollars. Source: NUA Internet SurveysWithout a doubt, the Internet is ushering in an era of sweeping change that will leave no business or industry untouched. In just three years, the Net has gone from a playground for nerds into a vast communications and trading centre where some 90 million people swap information or do deals around the world. Imagine: It took radio more than 30 years to reach 60 million people, and television 15 years. Never has a technology caught fire so fast. (Edwards, 1998)The number one advantage that e-commerce possesses is speed. The Internet and World Wide Web give businesses opportunities to exchange messages or complete transactions almost instantaneously. Even with the slowest connections, doing business electronically is much faster than traditional modes. With increased speeds of communication, the delivery time is expedited and that makes the whole transaction from start to finish more efficient. Additional ly, you can find practically any product available for sale on the Internet, as one author put it from books and compact disks (from www.amazon.com) to French bread (available from www.sourdoughbread.com), (Buskin, 1998). Even more significant is the fact that information appearing on the Internet can be changed extremely rapidly. This gives business owners the ability to inform customers of any changes to the service that you are offering. This also allows for you to update marketing and promotional materials as often and as frequently as you would like. The second advantage of the electronic commerce is the opportunity it offers to save on costs. By using the Internet, marketing, distribution, personnel, phone, postage and printing costs, among many others, can be reduced. You can start doing business in cyberspace for as little as $100. Most businesses will spend more than this but compared to the cost of opening a physical store, the savings are tremendous. These funds can then be diverted to marketing and advertising of your product or service. Cyberspace knows no national boundaries. That means you can do business all over the world as easily as you can in your own neighbourhood. Since the Internet connects everyone in cyberspace, information is transmitted at the speed of sound or the speed of light, depending on your connection. Either way, distance becomes meaningless, which makes you able to link to anyone on the globe and anyone on the globe can link to you. The ability to provide links makes doing business on the Internet attractive to customers in any part of the world. Using the web to provide customer support is an excellent vehicle to help build the reliability and effectiveness of your product or service. The ability to provide on-line answers to problems through email or an provide an archive section of frequently asked questions 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, builds customer confidence and retention. In fact, a whole series of IBM E-commer ce commercials were based on this one single point. The Internet tends to be a more personal environment. People expect to get a real person when they send mail. This can work to your advantage as a small start-up company, or when you are a large corporation. No matter what business you are involved in, an online-help feature is an extraordinary advantage to have. A potential source of trouble is customer concerns with privacy and security. Anything sent over the Internet is sent through several different computers before it reaches its destination. The concern regarding Internet security and privacy is that unscrupulous hackers can capture credit card or checking account data as it is transferred or break into computers that hold the same information. Security on the Internet is much like security for your home. There is a point when the effort outweighs the advantages. As with your home you usually stop adding security features when you feel safe. Making a customer feel safe is wh at is important in doing business on the Internet. Even though no one can guarantee 100% security of transferring financial information over the Internet, e-commerce is still safer than using credit cards at an actual store or restaurant, or paying for something with the use of a 1-800 number (unknown author, 1999). In addition, every time you throw away a credit card receipt you could make yourself powerless to fraud. But how do we, as consumers, know this for sure? What precautions do e-commerce websites take to avoid such problems? The answer is simple: encryption. Ever since the 2.0 versions of Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer, transactions can be encrypted using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), an Internet protocol that creates a secure connection to the server, protecting the information as it travels over the Internet. SSL uses public key encryption, one of the strongest encryption methods around. A way to tell that a Web site is secured by SSL is when the URL be gins with https instead of http. Browser makers and credit card companies are also promoting an additional security standard called Secure Electronic Transactions (SET). SET encodes the credit card numbers that sit on vendors’ servers so that only banks and credit card companies can read the numbers. Obviously no e-commerce system can guarantee 100-percent protection for your credit card, but you are less likely to get your pocket picked online than in a real store (Weiss, 1999). E-commerce is based on the assumption that the participants will pay for what they buy. There has been a noted reluctance among Internet users to actually pay, particularly for the digital goods and services. As a result, much of the current business on the Internet is funded using business models other than user-pays, primarily advertising and sponsorship. If a company is selling something, then they need to find a way to accept payment that is not only convenient for them, but most importantly, con venient for the customers. Setting up a simple web site can be very inexpensive, but if you are unsure of how to go about creating one, a simple web site thus may not be so simple. Moreover if you do not know what you are doing, your site will definitely not be effective. A functional web site with online ordering requires expertise in four different areas. If a business owner does not have HTML, CGI scripting, ODBC, and special programs for online clearing options experience, they may want to consider outsourcing. Outsourcing is the use of a third party service company to provide the missing pieces to complete the total functionality of the business. This is a cost-effective way to allow a site to get up and running much faster and concentrate on the product or service rather than getting overwhelmed with the technical challenges (DeCourey, 1999). Finally, a possible disadvantage to e-commerce is not having a strong organizational commitment. A functional web site that is going to be successful will soon need additional resources in technology and skills. E-commerce is evolving at a very rapid rate and the business owner must be willing to evolve with it. Newer and more advanced technology will cost more, but should be supplemented by additional revenues. Furthermore, the company must be willing to change the entire business or start a new one when they can see the need for change. Yahoo started as a commercial operation in 1995, with a simple, if enormous, list of Web sites to help people navigate the Web. But like the Web itself, Yahoo is changing fast. The once amazing ability to search the entire World Wide Web became outdated in a Net instant, so Yahoo, at the tender age of two years, began reinventing itself as a place to trade stocks, make travel reservations, and conduct commerce (Hof, 1998). Rest assured the future of e-commerce is intact and ever changing. Like electricity, antibiotics, or the car, the Internet is a revolutionary technology (France, 1999). It is quite evident that e-commerce is only gaining speed. As one article stated, the growth of e-commerce would not diminish, it will become such a pervasive influence on how acompany works that all functions within an organization will have a stake in their e-commerce strategy (Wareham, 2000). With Internet traffic doubling every 100 days the digital economy is alive and growing. The huge growths of virtual communities are causing shifts in economic power from large corporations to smaller businesses. Virtualcommunities erode the marketing and sales advantages of large companies. A small company with a better product and better customer service can use these communities to challenge larger competitors—something it probably could not do in the real world (CommerceNet, 1999). With many of the technological advances in the banking, on-line trading and retail industries, e-commerce will soon become the foundation of our life just as radio, telephone and television have in the past. Technology has a place in everyones day-to-day activities and soon e-commerce will be a major factor in the decisions we have to make. Remember, e-commerce is more complex than just buying that special someone’s birthday present. E-commerce, along with the Internet, is an outlet for business. It is a way for the new man to compete with the proven giants in the industry. An example of this would be the launch of Wal-Marts new web site intended to compete with industry monster Amazon.com. Their new business venture allows Wal-Mart to go outside its usual corporate sphere for Web-savvy talent geared for dot.com commerce, such as engineers, programmers and marketers. It also provides them with the necessary Web-wampum â€Å"V† such as options, warrants and shares that are essential to attracting top talent (Veverka, 2000). Simply put, the Internet and the use of e-commerce provides many opportunities for even the smallest of businesses to compete with large co rporations, in essence leveling the playing field. With the steady growth of the Internet, and the fact that every year more and more families are plugging in and surfing the web, can a company survive without the use of the Internet and e-commerce? Probably, but not for long. The Internet and e-commerce are here to stay, so businesses can either change with the times, or get left behind. The choice is theirs to make. Technology