Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder Essay Example for Free

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder Essay One of the great things about being a human is having the sexual desire to be intimate with another person. Many consider having the passion for sexuality is the driving force behind human behavior, but for some, this passion is non-existent. The purpose of this essay is to examine sexual dysfunction, particularly a disorder called Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD). HSDD is the deficiency or the absence of sexual fantasies or the desire for sexual activity, which ultimately lead to distress or interpersonal difficulty amongst a person† (Maserejian et al. , 2010). Communication problems, anger, a lack of trust, connection and intimacy can all adversely affect a woman’s sexual response and interest (Burman 2001).† It is said sexual dysfunction is due to infrequent orgasms, low levels of arousal and sexual excitement (Basson 2006). In a relationship, it is normal behavior for women to engage in sex and to crave emotional closeness with their partner. In a study by Women’s Health across the Nation (SWAN), 6 cities in 6 countries were surveyed. It was found 40 percent of women reported they infrequently or never felt sexual desire (Basson 2006). It is evident there are many ways to look at the potential causes of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD). Throughout this paper, the following sources will be conversed; specifically the psychosocial state, which refers to the mind’s capability to develop and interrelate with a social environment. Traumatic incidents and emotional issues are two factors that can also be linked to sexual dysfunctions throughout adulthood. Studies show child abuse is one of the biggest factors that lead up to sexual dysfunction in adulthood. This abuse can be linked to dysfunctions physically, emotionally and intellectually to oneself. Along with child abuse, depression and anxiety most often become the outcome of such act, which are other factors that lead up to HSDD. Today, HSDD is under thorough research to conclude more defined answers for this disorder. Nonetheless, the purpose of this paper is to examine Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) specifically the psychosocial causes such as anxiety, child abuse and depression. Having the lack of desire for intimacy can be caused by a person’s emotional state of mind. When a person has a negative view towards sex due to previous experiences, it heavily affects their outlook on sex in the long run. Anxiety occurs when a person is triggered by stress and those who are anxious usually â€Å"negative self-talk†, a habit of telling oneself the worst-case scenario. One who has HSDD feels a high form of anxiety towards sex due to insecurities or dysfunctions they feel anxious about. When one carries heavy anxiety towards sexuality and intimacy, it weakens their desire for sex. Self-esteem can be related to the development of anxiety. Moreover, traumatic incidents, sexual abuse and depression can also lead to the cause of HSDD. In a study done at a University at the Sexual Behavioral Clinics, several answers were found. In this case study, the sample size was 145 adults without sexual dysfunctions and 198 adults with sexual dysfunctions. All of these individuals were married heterosexual couples between the ages of 25-68 years of age (McCabe 2005). Researchers were able to categorize adults with sexual dysfunction into six groupings, these include: premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, male lack sexual desire, female inorgasmia, female lack of arousal, and female lack of sexual desire (McCabe 2005). Researchers hypothesize coital anxiety is the main result of sexual dysfunction with their partners. It is believed anxiety causes a damper on most spouses’ relationships due to constant fear on inability to perform sexually, which inevitably causes tension between couples due to anxiety (McCabe 2005). Throughout this study, it was also found that anxiety created depressive symptoms between sexuall y dysfunctional adults. A potential effect for the depressive symptoms lead to less satisfying sexual activities with a partner, causing individuals to turn to a more reliable way of pleasure, masturbation (McCabe 2005). All in all, high levels of anxiety can affect the intimacy of a relationship. More specifically, the constant fear focused on the inability to perform sexually or fear caused by past events causes strong tension between couples, which allows anxiety to grow. There is always room for research and McCabe (2005) believes more investigation on the effects of anxiety and HSDD can be done in order to fully understand the disorder. The events that take place during childhood inevitably shape a person in adulthood. One of the main causes for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder can be linked to a previous history of child abuse. Traumatic experiences as a child can strongly affect the psychosocial development of an individual. According to Webster Dictionary, Psychosocial is the relation between social conditions and mental health (Webster). Traumatic events during childhood can lead to a dysfunction called sexual desire disorder. Flashbacks of the event in childhood can occur for several years and continuously stay with the individual long term. A sexual desire disorder can frighten an individual in having any desire to be intimate or sexually active with anyone. A study conducted by Myriam S Denov (2004) examines individuals who were previous victims of sexual abuse as a child. This study involves a sample size of 14 victims, 7 male and 7 female. However, this sample size could potentially pose a threat to the external validity of this study because it represents individuals would only face female-perpetrated sexual abuse. The data was collected by several questions and interviews throughout a six-month period. Victims were consulted before screening in order to find the most precise answers. The aim of the study displays the long-term negative effects these victims carried after their traumatic experiences. Denov (2004) found that victims of childhood abuse were in less satisfying relationships with their partner sexually and emotionally. Respondents also reported long-term difficulties with substance abuse, self-injury, depression, strained relationships with partners and discomfort with sex (Denov 2004). Specifically with male respondents, common results for the study include arousal dysfunctions and fear of sex with women. Specifically for females, those who experienced childhood sexual abuse demonstrated lack of pleasure or satisfaction from sexual encounters (Denov 2004). It is evident childhood sexual abuse strongly effects adulthood developing a fear of sex, arousal dysfunctions, sexual inhibition and lack of pleasures by sexual encounters (Denov 2004). All in all, all these factors can strongly lead to a dissatisfying sexual relationship with a partner. Depression adversely affects every aspect of an individual’s life, including our relationships. When depression occurs between sexual encounters, it can heavily affect the relationship negatively (Lykins 2006). When one suffers depression, a lost of inte rest in sexual activities can occur and evidently minimizes a couple’s desire for intimacy (Lykins 2006). This can be shameful because intimacy, closeness and support can be therapeutic for an individual suffering depression. Some studies have linked depression with a decrease in sexual activity but others have reported an increase. In Lykins’ (2006) study, 663 females college-aged students answered questions regarding the effects of anxious and depressed mood on sexual interest and arousal. These respondents completed trait measures of sexual excitation and depression. It was discovered depressive symptoms tend to possess a greater desire in sexual activities for these women, mostly gearing towards masturbation (Lykins 2006). It was found that depressive symptoms lead to less satisfying sexual activities with an encounter. Moreover, respondents turned to masturbation because it was more reliable then pleasure. In this study, a variable discovered was that propensity for sexual excitation was the strongest predictor for women between depression and sex (Lykins 2006). Furthermore, depressive woman had the strongest tendency to perform risky and compulsive sexual behavior or develops sexual dysfunction. Along with this study, another sample were 339 college-aged men where some also developed depression throughout their adolescents. When men were compared to woman for those suffering in depression, men carried much stronger desires for sexual interest during these mood states. Unfortunately, there are a number of factors that limit the accuracy of this study. One of which those with clinical depression were not considered. Furthermore, to ensure reliability of the study, these issues can be looked further to ensure accuracy for this topic. As mentioned through this paper, there are numerous factors that could be linked to Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD). HSDD is the deficiency or the absence of sexual fantasies or the desire for sexual activity, which ultimately lead to distress or interpersonal difficulty among a person (Maserejian et al., 2010). This disorder can most certainly be a damper on relationships with a partner. Anxiety correlates to HSDD when the individual develops a fear of sexual relations and insecurities towards their sexual performance (McCabe, 2005). It is apparent child abuse is a huge factor which causes one to develop HSDD. Denov (2006) had found that traumatic events as a childhood can lead to dysfunctions and can lack sexual desires for any encounters. Additional research is needed to answer all questions between HSDD and depression. This evidently can help complete analysis and fill the gap between the two factors. An improvement that could be made within all the studies is bigger sample sizes in order to achieve more accurate information. A final suggestion for future and more precise research would be the effects of sexual desire in relation to males, as many of the studies are geared towards female participants. References: Basson, R. (2006). Sexual desire and arousal disorders in women. The new england journal o f medicine, 354, 1497-1506. Retrieved from http://www.obgyn.uab.edu/medicalstudents/obgyn/uasom/documents/September/SEX DYSF.pdf Berman , J. (2001). For women only: A revolutionary guide to reclaiming your sex life [. New York, NY: Henry Holt and Co. Denov, M. (2004). The long-term effects of child sexual abuse by female perpetrators. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 19(10), 1137-1156. Retrieved from http://jiv.sagepub.com/content/19/10/1137.full.pdf html Maserejian, N. (2010). The presentation of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women. International Society for Sexual Medicine, 7(10), 3438-3448. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20646184 McCabe, M. (2005). The role of performance anxiety in the development and maintenance of sexual dysfunction in men and women. International journal of stress management, 12(4), 379-388. Retrieved from http://psycnet.apa.org/journals/str/12/4/379.pdf Psychosocial. 2013. In Merriam-Webster.com. Retrieved Feb 4, 2011, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/psychosocial

Dance, Girl, Dance Essay Example for Free

Dance, Girl, Dance Essay Dance, Girl, Dance is a film from the Classical Hollywood period that presents a complicated reading when viewed through a feminist lens. The 1940 film was directed by Dorothy Arzner, one of the most notable female directors and the only prominent woman in Hollywood at that time. Arzner presents her audience with an array of female characters, the main characters being Judy O’brien and Bubbles/Tiger Lily White. Judy is a dedicated dancer, honing her talents as a ballerina. Bubbles, on the other hand, uses her looks and sexuality to land jobs as a burlesque dancer. Dance, Girl, Dance reveals these characters’ experience in a dance troupe with several other girls. When the troupe disbands, Bubbles comes to offer Judy a humiliating job as her stooge. As tensions rise, the two eventually come to blows, quite literally, when both fall for the same man, Jimmy Harris. Through their relationship with each other and with men, a dynamic is defined that gives insight into the power of the male gaze and sexual politics, not only in the film but also in society at large in the context of 1930s America. This can be seen in the analysis of a particular scene near the beginning of the film. Judy and one of her roommates, Sally, are preparing for bed after their performance at the nightclub in the opening scene. Bubbles, their third roommate, arrives at home after a disappointing outing with Jimmy. This scene specifically highlights the contrast between the personalities of Judy and Bubbles, and speaks to the many ways female characters are coded based on their sexuality and appearance. The analysis of the scene begins at the moment Bubbles enters the room. She comes into the frame through the doorway in a medium shot. It is important to note her costume, as it speaks to her character. She is wearing makeup, jewelry, a fox fur stole around her shoulders and a feathered hat. One may get the impression that she is trying to look as glamorous or ostentatious as possible on her limited budget. At this point, Bubbles has already been partly established as a brash woman who does not shy away from her ability to attract men. This can be contrasted with Judy’s costume during this scene, modest button-up pajamas. The scene continues as Bubbles enters the tiny apartment. She turns on the light, when Judy whispers that Sally is asleep from off camera. Bubbles leaves the light on, looks down at Sally in the bed, and proceeds to loudly close the door while muttering â€Å"So, what? † As she delivers her dialogue, the camera follows her as she walks to her bed, panning over to include Judy in a two shot. One key element in this simple interaction is the difference of attitude toward female solidarity between Bubbles and Judy. Judy obviously cares to not disturb Sally, while Bubbles seems disappointed and only concerned with her own problems at this point. Then, the camera cuts to a close shot of Sally lying in bed, smiling and clearly awake. She then closes her eyes and continues to try and sleep, rendering her unimportant to the rest of the scene. The next cut brings us back to a long, two shot of Bubbles and Judy as they discuss what happened to Bubbles that evening. Bubbles is explaining how she had gone out with Jimmy, but he suddenly left her at the bar after giving her a little stuffed bull. In this shot, Bubbles is in the foreground, a little closer to the camera than Judy, making her appear slightly larger. This could be interpreted as signifying her social dominance over Judy, and the fact that she â€Å"stole† Jimmy from Judy earlier that evening. Bubbles dismissively tosses the bull onto a chair in front of Judy. Judy picks it up, stating â€Å"It’s cute. † Bubbles tells her that she can have it. The audience is clearly meant to get the impression that the token of the night has no significance to Bubbles, and she is merely disappointed that she could not add Jimmy to her list of men to dote on her occasionally. The camera stays stationary as Bubble walks to the background of the shot and sits on her bed. Judy gently places the bull back on the chair, already showing signs of her eventual fetishization of the bull and Jimmy. Then, she continues to bend and stretch her legs, as Bubbles pouts behind her. It is interesting to point out that as Judy resumes her exercises, she has gained the â€Å"high ground† of the shot. The reminder of her status as a dancer, a more artful and talented dancer than Bubbles, means she is the larger, more significant character in the frame now. The focus has moved from Bubbles proficiency as a female spectacle, completely at home under the male gaze, to Judy’s proficiency as a ballerina, with no real concern for superficial male attention. Then, this is reinforced when there is a cut to a medium shot of Bubbles, looking at Judy. The camera follows Bubbles line of sight and there is a quick cut to a medium shot of Judy, then it reverses back to the shot of Bubbles on her bed, shaking her head. She says, â€Å"I’ll say one thing for you, Pavlova. You’ve certainly got ambition, even if it’s dumb. As she says this, Judy’s foot briefly enters from the side of the frame as she kicks her leg. Once again, Bubbles is coded as having no passion for her craft as a dancer, seeing it as a means to an end of attracting men and/or making money, while Judy genuinely loves to dance. One way of reading the film is through the suggestion that Judy’s ballet is high art, while Bubbles’ burlesque is low art. In the world of the Dance, Girl, Dance, women utilizing their sexuality for physical and financial gratification given by men is deemed less valuable than artistic expression. What follows is a short series of counter shots between the two, as Bubbles ponders how she will get back to New York, going through her list of male suitors to find a solution to her dilemma. On a surface level, this shows that Bubbles needs men to get where she is going, whether it is for a trip to New York or a trip to stardom as they buy tickets to her shows later in the film. The scene comes to a close as Bubbles decides on Sam, the traveling salesman that is â€Å"sweet on her. As this line is delivered, there is a quick cut to Judy whipping her head around to look back at Bubbles. Judy has an expression on her face that is hard to describe, but it gets across the fact that her reality is very different from that of Bubbles’. Judy goes on to ask if there will be room for Sally, as the camera tracks Bubbles while she walks to the bathroom. As the camera stops tracking, it stops in a medium shot of Bubbles as she eventually replies, â€Å"†¦ All right, she can go, b ut don’t blame me. That guy’s got more arms than an octopus. † There is a cut to a close shot of Sally in bed with a wide-eyed, nervous expression as she quickly lifts up her head and plops back down. Like Judy, her reality is very different from the reality of the dynamic Bubbles, and the possibility of encountering a man from that reality seems to frighten her. After the last cut of the scene, it ends on a medium shot of Judy picking up the stuffed bull once again and smiling at it fondly. This emphasizes the fact Judy is not asexual and clearly is developing feelings for Jimmy. Although, Judy seems to have a more deep, emotional connection to Jimmy than Bubbles has for her various men. Judy only became interested in Jimmy after he helped the girls at the nightclub and talked with her earlier in the film. Her interest is not based solely on what he can provide to her. The differences in costume, behavior and motivation between Bubbles and Judy are relevant to a larger scope of the film involving sex and gender politics. For all of the above reasons found in the formal elements of the film’s visual and narrative composition, Bubbles is coded as superficial, purely physical and vapid. On the other hand, Judy is given much more value and depth. While Bubbles goes on to find success by exploiting her good looks, Judy is the winner in the end, when she lands her position in the ballet company and achieves her dreams. In this way, the film is sending a message that female self-worth is not derived from male approval or reaffirming of beauty, but from accomplishment of what are considered to be more substantial goals.

The prophet muhammad and the environment

The prophet muhammad and the environment As inhabitants of this world, human beings are constantly interacting with our environment and the outcome is that the environment is changing. Now it seems beyond neither the human control nor even the measurement of modern technologies. The environmental protection agencies, enormous institutions, organizations and ecologists all over the world are making their maximum attempt to preserve the environment; but unfortunately the environment degenerates day by day to a horrible state. The whole world is under the threat of Global Warming and Ozone Depletion. What Causes Global Warming And Ozone Depletion? Scientists have determined that a number of human activities are contributing to global warming by adding excessive amount of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide accumulate in the atmosphere and trap heats which may gradually exit in to outer space. Scientists tell that Deforestation is the very significant source of greenhouse gases because when the trees are fewer in number, there is less carbon dioxide conversion to the oxygen. Human use of fossil fuels is also the source of excess greenhouse gases. When the greenhouse gases grow, more heat will be trapped in the atmosphere and get less back to the space. Because of these, the climate changes and the weather structure alters which definitely hastens species extinction and adversely affects the length of seasons worldwide. It will cause the coastal flooding and lead to more frequent and severe storms too. According to the current statistics, since 1970 more than 30 per cent of natural species have been destroyed. Consumption of natural resources and carbon dioxide emissions have both doubled over the last 40 years and continue to grow at an increased rate. Most of the countries have projected to lose more than 10 per cent of their forests over the next few years. Toxic chemicals which are mostly the emissions from the industrial sectors are widespread in the environment and about 10 per cent disease is caused by environmental pollution. The natural calamities like flood, earthquake, tsunami, and storm have increased unparalleled in history. Most of the world regions are counted to be the earthquake or other calamities prone areas. Epidemic diseases like AIDS, SARS, Bird flue dominate one by the other over the public health. Even though the hospitals, medical institutions and medical colleges numerically increase they all become mute spectator to the steady deterioration of public heal th. The death caused by this kind of disastrous epidemic diseases increase in a horrible situation. A build-up of man-made chemicals in the atmosphere causes ozone depletion. The main chemical is CFCs (Chlorofluro carbon) that are used in refrigerants and aerosol spray propellants. CFCs are easy to store, chemically stable and non- flammable; hence they float in the atmosphere. They rise for about 8 years until they reach the ozone layer and they will be broken at there by large amount of ultraviolet radiation. CFCs contain one Fluorine atom, one Carbon and three Chlorine atoms. When ultraviolet radiation and CFCs work chemically the Chlorine atom is free and it can continue to destroy 100,000 of ozone molecules. If the atmosphere is cold the effect will be too worse. Scientists could find out that it has been very cold in the stratosphere in the last few years. Modern aircrafts transportation and supersonic airplanes also contribute to ozone depletion by putting some toxic chemicals in to the atmosphere. Another man-made chemical, which also causes ozone depletion, is methyl bromi de. It has been used in many different pesticide applications since 1932. It is regarded to be 50 times more destructive to the ozone layer than CFCs. Many A Mischief Done By Men: The Holy Quran undoubtedly points out:- â€Å"Mischief has appeared on land and sea because of that the hands of men earned† (30: 41) Here the Holy Quran warns men that if they trespass on and overexploit land and water the overall outcome would be too unfavourable. Imam Fakru Rrazi narrates this quranic verse as:- â€Å"The epidemic infections, draughts, flood etc are meant by the usage of Holy Quran ‘Fasad i.e. mischief has appeared on land and sea† (Thafseerul Kubra) So the increasing natural calamities must be the requital and outcome of mens activities of misusing the natural resources. The creation of Almighty GOD Allah is perfect. Allah says: â€Å"You can see no fault in the creations of the most beneficent. Then look again. Can you see any rifts† (67: 3) So the Holy Quran asserts that whatever the change the nature turns to is not its own, but the results of mens activities. Prophetic Jurisprudence Of Environmental Protection: The Almighty GOD Allah has created every thing in this universe in due proportion. No one can find out any faults in Allahs creation. All the creatures from the tiny microbes to large living animals and all the materials from tiny particles of molecules to the largest galaxies are in due measure both quantitatively and qualitatively. The whole universe is open to men to use for his benefits but not to misuse or trespass natural rules. This Islamic basic concept toward the environment is revealed by this Quranic verse:- â€Å"Have you not seen that God is glorified by all in the heavens and on the earth such as the birds with wings outspread? Each knows its worship and glorification, and God is aware of what they do†. (An-Noor 24: 41) The Holy Quran says: â€Å"There is not an animal in the earth, or a flying creature flying on two wings, but they are communities like you; We have neglected nothing in the book; Then unto their Lord they will be gathered† (Al- An-aam- 6: 38) This Quranic verse describes that Allah did not miss any thing that is important for a meaningful existence. All the living organisms in the environment, they are also communities like human beings having the right of life in this earth. So, the basic and first concept of Prophetic Teaching towards environment is that all the living and non-living things in the earth are created by GOD in due proportion and divine object. All other living beings are as communities as human beings, so they also have the right to live in this environment. Secondly, Islam gives men the right to use the natural recourses for his use. The Holy Quran says: He Who has spread out the earth for you and threaded roads for you therein and has sent down water from the sky: With it have We brought forth diverse kinds of vegetation. Eat and pasture your cattle; verily, in this are signs for men endued with understanding. (Surathu Twaha- 20: 53) According to this verse the environment including of all its living and non living creatues are created by God for mens benefits only. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has taught that earth is subservient to man, but it should not be misused, overexploited or abused. This is the third concept of Prophetic teachings towards environment. This concept basically forms environmental protection or solution to the environmental problems. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says: â€Å"The earth has been created for me as a mosque and a means of purification† (Swaheehul Bukhari- 1: 331) Land and water that are created by God in due proportion for the benefits of men must be regarded to be sacred. Prophet Muhammad (s) emphasizes that earth is not only a pure entity but purifying agent also. By informing men that the earth is sacred land, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) teaches men to keep the land always clean and tidy. Environmental Cleaning: One of the reasons for global warming is that the environment is being treated as dump for waste disposal. And as a result pollution is increased everywhere. Land, water and air have been polluted with toxic or non toxic hazardous waste from the towns, buildings, factories and houses. The land, air, rivers and seas provide dumping grounds for the waste, which can be environmentally too harmful. The environment is able to absorb some types waste up to certain levels of emissions. Beyond that level environmental pollution is likely to accelerate. As wastes grow, so environmental degradation is also most likely to grow at a faster rate. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH0 had put forward a preventive measure for the environmental protection, that is complete cleanliness of nature. Allah says in Holy Quran: â€Å"Verily, Allah loves those who turn to him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean.† ( 2: 222). Islam makes purification a responsibility of men. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH0 has taught: â€Å"Purification is half part of Islamic belief† (Swaheehu Muslim: H.No: 432) Prophet Muhammad(s) mentioned purification in general, which includes the purification of body internally and externally and his environment also. All kinds of purification are the responsibilities of true believers. According to this Hadeeth, Islamic belief (Eeman) of a person can not be regarded to be perfect without due cleanliness in his body and surroundings too. Purifying human bodies by ablution or ritual bathing benefit him to prevent many infections that are caused by virus or bacteria. Purifying the nature prevents environmental pollution. Responsibility Of Environment: Who has the responsibility of the environment? Is the God responsible for it? Or the environment itself is responsible? Or those who have the right to use all natural resources for their use are responsible? Definitely, according to Islamic concept, those who are living and use the nature are responsible for nature. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has taught: â€Å"Every one of you is guardian and will be asked about his subject† (Swaheehu Muslim) Prophet Muhammad (s) was very strict that men should handle every thing on this earth with extra care. If man is much aware of his responsibility of environment, he cannot disfigure and spoil the resources available in the nature. The Prophet was becoming increasingly sensitive when he was traveling with his Swahaba and he was telling â€Å"Do not encroach on the trucks on the habitats of these wild beasts and animals, you are to share the earth with them† Overexploiting Natural Resources: Another reason for the global warming and all other environmental problems is that men overexploit the natural resources. Allah the Almighty has taught in Holy Quran obviously that the earth and resources are for the benefits of men, but it should not be overexploited. The land provides us food, mines, quarries and oil wells provide us with fuels and raw materials, forests provide us wood, and seas provide us with fish. Allah has given the right to extract raw materials for production process and to cultivate crops, vegetables and fruits for mens use, but the same time He has prevented men to use these resources by extravagance. This Islamic rule also forms as a preventive measure for the environmental problems. The Almighty Allah says: And it is He Who produces gardens trellised and untrellised, and datepalms, and crops of different shape and taste (its fruits and its seeds) and olives, and pomegranates, similar (in kind) and different (in taste). Eat of their fruit when they ripen, but pay the due thereof on the day of its harvest, and waste not by extravagance. Verily, He likes not Al-Musrifoon (those who waste by extravagance)†. (Al-Anaam -6:41) Allah says in another verse in the similar meaning: O Children of Adam! Take your adornment while praying and going round the Kabah, and eat and drink but waste not by extravagance, certainly He (Allah) does not like Al-Musrifoon (those who waste by extravagance).† (Al-Araf- 7:31) These Quranic verses clearly encourages men to use several fruits, crops and other natural resources and prohibits men to waste there of. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has told that Allah hates extravagance. â€Å"Narrated Ash-shabi: Al mugheera wrote; â€Å"I heard the Prophet saying: Allah has hated three things: 1- vain talks that you talk too much or about others. 2 Wasting of wealth by extravagance, 3- and asking too many questions† (Muslim H no: 591) Conservation of water: Water is a gift from God and source of all life in earth. Conservation of this vital element is very important to the preservation and existence of life in its various forms. The Holy Quran points out: â€Å"And We have made from water every living thing.† (21:30) â€Å"Consider the water which you drink, Was it you that brought it down from the rain cloud or We? If We had pleased, we could make it bitter† (56: 68- 70) â€Å"And we caused rain to descend on you from heaven to cleanse you therewith† Allah reminds men the value of water through these verses. Allah has made the use of water a common right of all creatures. So all living and non living creatures are entitled to use and share it without monopoly, wastage, extravagance and despoilment. Prophet Muhammad (s) lived in the desert environment where water was very synonymous to life. Though the two third of the globe is filled with water many regions, countries and communities all over the world are suffering from the lack of water. The water levels in rivers go down so as a result the water level in the nearby wells goes down and people face the difficulty to get the water both for their life and multinational purposes. Narrated Jabir (R): Prophet Muhammad (s) has prohibited passing urine in stagnant water† (Swaheehu Muslim, Riyalu Sswalheen: H.No: 1772) Prophet Muhammad (S) strictly prohibits taking more water than necessary. Making ablution by washing more than three times is considered as ‘Karaha i.e. discouraged by Islam. Even if you are making ablution from a large water reservoir, or from a flowing spring or near to river you must not take water to wash a particular part of body more than three times. Prophet Muhammad (s) perceives it as extravagance. Any human activity that impairs the structural and biological smooth functioning of water, whether by misusing or lavishing or polluting it with urine or any other dirty substances is really against the Prophetic law of preserving environment. The root cause of environmental problems is the reckless behavior of men by polluting the nature that would definitely make it unsuitable for his use. So man is baited against man. The Prophetic teachings not to pass urine in stagnant water and to lavish drops of water even for making ablution ultimately form a splendid methodology to preserve the water; that all other ecologists, scientists, and environmental protection agencies have been seeking for a methodology theoretically sufficient and pragmatically effective to preserve the environment. Treatment of Animals: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) believed that animals, as indispensable part of the environment, should be treated with dignity and respect that they deserve. He had considered camels and horses courageous companions during his journeys and battles. So prophetic teaching basically has enjoined up on men right environmental relation ship with animals. It is not allowed in Islam to kill animals except for food, but in some cases only some animals can be killed when they endanger the human life. Islam allows hunting but it must be for the necessity. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) could not put up with unnecessary hunting of any animals. Ibnu Masood said: We were traveling with Prophet Muhammad (s), when he left us for while we could see a bird with its two chicks and we too the chicks. Then the mother bird started spreading its wings. When Prophet(S) came and saw this, he said â€Å"who caused her to take away her two children, return her two children to her† (Bukhari Muslim) Prophet Muhammad(s), more than any other ecologist, has realized the feelings of relation between mother and children birds; that is why he reacted when he saw the feelings of mother bird. Narrated Hisham bin Zaid: Anas and I went to Al-Hakam bin Aiyub. Anas saw some boys shooting at a tied hen. Anas said, The Prophet has forbidden the shooting of tied or confined animals. (Swaheehul Bukhari- Book 67, Hadith 421) Another Hadeeth: Narrated Ibn Umar: that he entered upon Yahya bin Said while one of Yahyas sons was aiming at a hen after tying it. Ibn Umar walked to it and untied it. then he brought it and the boy and said. Prevent your boys from tying the birds for the sake of killing them, as I have heard the Prophet forbidding the killing of an animal or other living thing after tying them. (Swaheehul Bukhari- Book 67, Hadith 422) Prophet Muhammad (s) has prohibited killing some animals: â€Å"Narrated Abdulla Bin Abbas: The Prophet Muhammad (s) prohibited to kill four creatures: ants, bees, hoopoes, and sparrow hawks†. (Sunan Aboo Davud- H. No: 5247) Prophet Muhammad (s) teaches that there would be a reward for from Allah for serving any animals. Narrated Abu Huraira: Allahs Apostle said, While a man was walking on a road. he became very thirsty. Then he came across a well, got down into it, drank (of its water) and then came out. Meanwhile he saw a dog panting and licking mud because of excessive thirst. the man said to himself This dog is suffering from the same state of thirst as I did. So he went down the well (again) and filled his shoe (with water) and held it in his mouth and watered the dog. Allah thanked him for that deed and forgave him. the people asked, O Allahs Apostle! Is there a reward for us in serving the animals? He said, (Yes) there is a reward for serving any animate (living being). (Swaheehul Bukhari book73, Hadith 38) This Hadeeth gives us unique lesson. He understands the thirst of dog and tells that it also has the same set of thirst I had. The way that he has poured the water in to dogs mouth is certainly a unique one that we can not see same sort of way to deal with any animals any where in the history nor in the modern practices of preserving nature. Narrated by Ahmad: â€Å"If you kill a sparrow senselessly, it will hasten to God on the Day of Judgment, and it will say: Oh Lord so and so killed me for play not for use† (Mishakathul Masabeeh) These Prophetic words reflect the reverence, respect and great love to the animals. According to Prophetic teachings, killing an animal without giving food, drinks, or even by disturbing it will cause a man to go to Hellfire. â€Å"Narrated Ibnu Umar: Prophet Muhammad (s) said- A woman she tied a cat has gone to Hellfire; she neither fed it nor allowed it to find food of its own†. (Bukhari Muslim, Riyalussaliheen- H.No: 1600) Through these Hadeeths, Prophet Muhammad (s) prohibited killing or disturbing any animals. He orders men to be kind towards all living beings in the earth. â€Å"Allah, the great and omnipotent, will do his mercy to those who do their mercy (towards the living beings in the earth). So do mercy to every living being in the earth, then Allah and his angels will do the mercy towards you† (Bukhari Muslim) This is a broad concept of treating the animals. Whatever men can do to treat and protect animals, that are considered to be mercy and Allah will give his rewards for that. Not only physical harm to animals but insulting or cursing animals is also prohibited by Prophet Muhammad (s). â€Å"Imran bin. Husain reported: We were with Allahs Messenger (may peace be upon him) in some of his journeys and there was a woman from the Ansar riding a she-camel that it shied and she invoked curse upon that. Allahs Messenger (May peace be upon him) heard it and said: unload that and set it free for it is accursed. Imran said: I still perceive that (dromedary) walking amongst people and none taking any notice of that. (Swaheehu Muslim: Hadith.No: 6276). This prophetic concept not to curse or insult an animal is almost very humane perspective. According to Quranic lesson a human must not curse another human, this is because the dignity and respect of the men are highly considered. Similarly, the indispensable role of animals in this environment is something great and they too perform their functions in the nature. As they do their role in here, they also deserve their dignity. So any animal must not be cursed. In Islam, to slaughter an animal Muslims have to use sharp knife in order to save the animal the pain associated with the use of an object. Prophet Muhammad (s) used to tell his companions: â€Å"Shaddid bin. Aus said: Two are the things which I remember Allahs Messenger (may peace be upon him) having said: Verily Allah has enjoined goodness to everything; so when you kill, kill in a good way and when you slaughter, slaughter in a good way. So every one of you should sharpen his knife, and let the slaughtered animal die comfortably. (Swaheehu Muslim:, Hadith 4810). Prophet Muhammad (S) teaches Muslims to consider the psyche of an animal to be slaughtered. The hadeeth usage â€Å"And let the slaughtered animal die comfortably† is almost a very natural perspective toward the pain and sufferings of an animal. Prophet Muhammad (s0 has shown great sensitivity and gentleness. Throughout his life, many hadeeths and incidents obviously show that He was extremely sensitive toward the sufferings of animals. That is why he recommended using sharp blades and an easy method in order to the animal can die quickly with as little pain as possible. He has also prohibited slaughtering an animal in the presence of another animal and sharpening the blade in the witness of the animal which is to be slaughtered. If you let the animals witness the sharpening of your blades, according to Prophetic teachings, it is almost similar to slaughter the same animal twice. â€Å"Ibnu Abbas reported: A man has kept a sheep laid down while he was sharpening his blade. Then the Prophet told: Would you like it to die twice? Why didnt you sharpen your blade before lying it down?† No other religions, isms or any other social leaders too can put forward this kind of noble ideology of extreme sensitivity to the feelings and sufferings of an animal. In short, prophetic environmental teachings recommend to consider the animals as indispensable part of ecology. So it must get the dignity and respect that it deserves. Men must be sensitive an all dealings with animals, no matter whether it is to be slaughtered or not. Through his example of sharpening knife in front of animals He teaches men to consider the feelings of animals. If had practiced the Prophetic ideology to protect the environment through preserving animals, we would have overcome the horrible situation of global warming and all other environmental degradation up to an extent. ‘Planting a tree: Plants are an integral part of the environment. One of the reason for global warming and other environmental problems is that the plants have been lost all over the world due to human activities and as a result carbon dioxide absorption has been decreased more than 30 per cent within the last 50 years. â€Å"If you have a means to plant a tree, start digging† is the instruction presently given by the ecologists to preserve the nature. Plants Absorb carbon dioxide and give off the oxygen during the photosynthesis time. A single plant would be able to absorb one ton of carbon dioxide approximately during its life time. Many an infections and disastrous diseases too are becoming increasingly widespread very faster than ever before because of that a large amount of poisonous carbon dioxide is left in the atmosphere unabsorbed. This will adversely affect the immunity of the human body also. Those who leave no stone unturned in getting the environment preserved can really appreciate the greatness of prophetic teaching of â€Å" plant a tree†. Jabir (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allahs Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: Never a Muslim plants a tree, but he has the reward of charity for him, for what is eaten out of that is charity; what is stolen out of that, what the beasts eat out of that, what the birds eat out of that is charity for him. (In short) none incurs a los! k to him but it becomes a charity on his part. (Swaheehu Musli- Hadith No:3764) Another hadeeth: Jabir bin . Abdullah (Allah be pleased with them) reported: I heard Allahs Messenger (may peace be upon him) saying: Never does a Muslim plant, or cultivate, but has reward for him for what the beasts eat, or the birds eat or anything else eats out of that. (Muslim Hadith no:3766) This holy Hadeeths not only comprise of the vital important of planting a tree, but also the very structural and biological inter relation of plants, birds, human and other animals. In the second Hadeeth, the usage â€Å"to cultivate† is very important regarding with the preservation of all kinds of cultivations. According to the meaning of this Hadeeth, who ever does some thing to preserve the environment, he will certainly get the charitable reward from the creator of environment. Planting a tree is not only benefited for contributing fruits or seeds but for the carbon dioxide absorption also, which in turn purifies the whole living atmosphere. Prophet Muhammad (s) prohibits cutting and destroying trees. â€Å"Narrated Hassan ibn Ibrahim: I asked Hisham ibn Urwah about the cutting of a lote-tree when he was leaning against the house of Urwah. He said: Do you not see these doors and leaves? These were made of the lote-tree of Urwah which Urwah used to cut from his hand? He said: There is no harm in it. Humayds version adds: You have brought an innovation, O Iraqi! He said: The innovation is from you. I heard someone say at Mecca: The Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) cursed him who cuts a lote-tree(without justification). He then mentioned the rest of the tradition to the same effect. (Sunan Abudavud: Hadith No:5221) Another hadeeth can be read like this: â€Å"he who cuts a lote-tree (without justification), God will send him to Hellfire†. Those people who cut the trees just for some celebrations and festivals, those countries that destroy forests for the sake of competing development, and those institutions and industries that wipe out plants for their temporary purposes must think about the prophetic teachings of environmental protection. They must understand that what ever they are doing for the sake of industrialization will finally turn to be harmful to their own development. Dont contribute to your own destruction: Allah the almighty says: â€Å"Dont make your own hands contribute to your own destruction, but do good only, for Allah loves those who do good† (Holy Quran- 2: 195) Through this verse Allah prohibits men doing any activity which in turn will contribute to his own destruction. Researchers could find out that about 80 percent of tobacco users will get cancer or some other diseases. Islamic scholars then have given the Fathwa that tobacco consumption is prohibited in Islam according to this verse. Same is the case with environment also. Allah prohibits men destroying animals and plants, and polluting water, land and air through this verse. Because these all can contribute to the destruction of human being as well as the environment. PROPHETIC TEACHINGS AS ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS: Prophet is the pioneer of environmental preservation. The words like ‘conservation of water, ‘ecology, ‘environmental awareness, ‘sustainability etc can be seen in many Quranic verses and Holy Hadeeths. He taught that the natural resources are created by God Allah for mens use. The same time, men dont have any right to overexploit or misuse these natural resources. One of the reasons for environmental problem is that the scarce resources of nature are overexploited. Industrialization has done a major role in this. Prophetic lesson only can solve these problems. Whoever extracts raw materials, oils, and mines, who ever cultivate vegetables and fruits and who ever take water and all must be aware of prophetic environmental ethics that it should not be misused or rather overexploited. This is the only way to protect our limited natural resources. Secondly, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has given the responsibility of environment to men. He will be asked about his nature also. We can not see this seldom explored ideology in any other religions or scientific books. If men had thought about his responsibility of all the living and non-living creatures in his surroundings, most of the species would have had lived here and the whole environment itself would have left tidy and suitable to use. Prophet Muhammad (s) had taught not to pollute water, air and land. He also had taught the way how to treat animals and to plant trees as many as possible. From these noble environmental ethics, we can realize Prophet as a great ecologist, scientist and pioneer of environmental protection when scientific outfits and innovations were nothing. Hence, those who spend a lot for environmental protection must take into account the noble ethics of prophet Muhammad(PBUH), and do the best to be practiced every where. The whole ecological harmony and biological relations that the prophet Muhammad (S) advocated between human and his nature has today almost lost. As the whole world is under the great threats of many kinds of natural calamities and these are basically caused by pollution, over exploitation, desertification, animals destruction and deforestation, it is the exact time for the whole world community to think about it seriously and find out the best effective environmental ethics to b e practiced. Definitely the sound and effective environmental ethics are lying in the noble teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). So, let the world community as a whole take a leaf out of the Hadeeths and find out the solutions for current environmental crisis. References: 1- Holy Quran 2- Swaheehul Bukhari 3- Waheehu Muslim 4- Sunan Aboo Davud 5- Mishakathul Masabeeh 6- Riyalu swaliheen 7- Complete Biology/ W.R Pickering/ Oxford 8- Biology in Action/ Poole, Pikley, Johnson/ HBJ 9- The Facts on File Dictionary of Biology/ Elizabeth Tootil/ Oxford 10- Islamic Sciences/ S.Waqar Ahmed Hussain/ Good word Books 11- Muhammad A Mercy to all Nations/ Al Hajj Qasim Ali Jairazzbhoy 12- Economics/ john Sloman/ fifth edition/ prentice Hall 13- www.searchtruth.com

Sporting crises :: essays research papers

Sporting crises lay sponsors' most valuable assets, their brands, open to an associated fallout. How they can minimise its impact? Sport is never far from controversy. Whether it be alcohol-fuelled misbehaviour, allegations of drug abuse or inappropriate public musings on a thorny political issue, the national press is filled to the brim with sports stars dragging the image of their employers — and the sports they represent — through the proverbial mud. Such crises can have a major knock-on effect on existing sponsorship partners and the potential for attracting new income to the sport. The medium has only begun to prove its commercial viability in terms of return on investment over the past five years, and some believe that brands are being scared off by the inherent risks of sports sponsorship deals. Football is the most obvious sport whose commercial value has been tainted by the actions of its players. While the game still attracts multimillion-pound investment from brands due to the massive media spotlight it enjoys, many are questioning the wisdom of their associations in light of a seemingly never-ending stream of negative headlines. The guilt of the player involved in many of these cases can be irrelevant. As one sponsorship industry expert says: 'A sports star may be cleared of any wrongdoing following the emergence of a scandal, but would you put him back on the road for your brand? I know I wouldn't.' The flip side of any sponsorship deal is the knowledge that the sponsoring organisation's most valuable marketing asset, its brand, is exposed to the risks that are inherent in professional sport. The key issue is the strength of the link between shocks, crises and general bad behaviour of top-profile sports people, and the image and brand equity of sponsors. In short, when the mud flies, does it stick to the brands? According to David Abrahams, senior vice-president of Marsh Risk Consulting Practice and an expert in brand risk, there is often a demonstrable link between the way in which a crisis is handled by a company and what happens to that business and its associated brand. 'The way in which any crisis is handled becomes a visible test of management capability,' he says. 'If that crisis arises from a fundamental breach of trust or performance, the compound effect of the bad handling can be devastating.' Crisis management The size of the problem faced by sponsors relates closely to an incident's shock value in media terms.

The Ideal Life Essay -- Personal Narrative Family Essays

The Ideal Life I awake to the sounds of bacon sizzling and eggs frying. It is another wonderful, lazy Saturday morning breakfast. This weekend is like so many others, and yet it is unique in and of itself. The shadows on the floor coalesce to form the german shepherd, Hg, we once rescued. Then, like Mercury himself, the shadows disperse leaving nothing but emptiness where he once was. "Breakfast!" comes the call from the kitchen. "Coming," I respond, fully intending not to. I remain where I am, reminiscing about the past, about elementary particles, about how I've reached the point where I now am, and about who I was 10 years ago. I've never wanted my life to stand out much. I've never dreamed of winning the race, scoring the goal, or saving the day. I don't mind at all having the appearance of just another faceless mass in a crowd, because I am so much more than anything anyone could catch in a glimpse. Not that I think I'm special or anything, since there are very few people who one can know instantaneously. Spending the time and energy to make an impression on people I will never again see is not normally my style. I care much more for the depth of a single relationship than the mind-numbing breadth of a multitude. This attitude has both saved me from pain and caused extra. Not making the effort to reach out to people leaves me in my own isolated world, sparing me from the feelings of rejection and boredom which my brushes with society have caused me. It also strengthens the ties with those few whom I choose to develop real, lasting relationships. However, purposefully secluding myself from others leaves me vulnerable when I do decide to open myself up. Since I do it so rarely, the times when I approach others and f... ...m to. I know that I'm headed in the right direction, and that the future will, much like the past has, supply what I need for a happy life. I've already found the most important and difficult part of my ideal life. I have a great friend whom I've known for the past 10 years and who will continue to be there in the future. Beyond this though, I have found my lifelong companion. I have found my perfect soulmate, with whom I can relax and be myself. I can open up to her and say anything at all. Knowing that this wonderful woman knows who I am, and at a fundamental level accept everything about me, frees me to be the best that I can. "Daddy," my little one squeaks, trying to pull me with her, "Breakfast is ready. C'mon! !" It's just another lazy Saturday morning and it is time to move on with my life. Reminiscing can be fun, but there is life to live in the present.

hitchcock :: essays research papers

Suspense   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  I think the best example of suspense in Alfred Hitchcock’s films is Psycho. The suspense is built well through the music and the camera angles. I will choose the shower-stabbing scene to demonstrate all these elements, because the scene displays all these elements the best. The music fits the situations and events that take place. The playing of the screeching music when Norman Bates is in the process of stabbing Lila Crane in the shower, just the effect of the music makes this one of the most suspenseful scenes in movies history, at least in my opinion. Also, the camera angle builds the suspense. The angle of her screaming when the man opens the shower, then the cutting off to the knife and then the blood, displays the effects of the camera angles, and without even show the murder. The angle on the knife makes us perceive that she is being stabbed without even seeing it. And the blood makes us assume that she is dead, without even showing the body. He buil ds suspense without showing the specific details of a scene. Plot Twists   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Hitchcock uses plot twists in his films to give the viewers the idea that something going on is happening, but in reality, it’s not. For example, in Psycho, Norman Bates’ mother really turners out to be Bates himself. And for Dial M for Murder, the key that was left on the stairs was used to help the detective catch Tony. The Trouble with Harry is that the whole time Harry has died of a heart attack, but we didn’t know that and all the other characters didn’t either. In Rope there really isn’t one. You could say that the two brothers killing David and putting him in that box could be a plot twist. An finally in Vertigo the lady really turning out to be someone else is a plot twist in the movie. Auditory Cues   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The two films that rely on auditory cues are Dial M for Murder and Rope.

“Hunters in the Snow” by Tobias Wolff Essay

In â€Å"Hunters in the Snow† by Tobias Wolff, we see three characters who apparently appear to be close friends but then as the story moves they lose their patience with each other. In the story, the reader notices how the cold temperatures started to create an impact on each of the characters. It brings out the complexities in their character. In due course of time the reader comes across the true self of the characters. Their simmering resentment towards each other is aptly highlighted by the author amidst the appropriate setting of the cold bleak winter season. When concentrating on the conversation that takes place between the men the reader realizes that underneath all the friendship there is a cruelness of words that cuts to the deep as the men flaunt the others weaknesses and seem to be ignorant of the effect that the words will have on the emotional state of the other. The atmosphere plays a very crucial role in defining the theme for a story. When used to its full potential it can stir deep feelings in the reader that go beyond rational thought. Tobias Wolff in his short story †Hunters in the Snow† uses this factor to create atmosphere and a sense of crisis. The story craftly uses the setting and thereby makes it a fascinating study in self-absorption. Wolff draws three strongly distinct characters in a small space, and again manages to convey the ambiguities and complexities of human interaction and personal struggle. The story begins with Tub waiting for his friends Frank and Kenny â€Å"for an hour in the falling snow.† In the same paragraph we find Tub is walking down the street, carrying a rifle and seemingly, shooting the breeze. The cold and the waiting surely creates an impact in the mood of the character. Tub is restless from the wait and the cold adds on to it. Besides, aiming at the breeze fairly depicts that the character continues to be impatient and will later ironically reflect the true nature of Tub. The snow let up, but still there was no edge to the land where it met the sky. Nothing moved in the chalky fields. The cold bleached their faces and made the stubble stand out on their cheeks and along their upper lips. They stopped twice for coffee before they got to the woods where Kenny wanted to hunt.   Wolff builds up the story on the platform of cold weather and the impact of the cold on each character slowly builds up. As they ride together in Kenny’s truck, we learn more about them. They are traveling in an old truck with a hole in the windshield, making it a very cold journey.   Once again the cold seems to follow them throughout the journey. On the trip into the woods, and while they are walking around searching for tracks, we realize the fact that Kenny and Frank don’t seem to like Tub very much. Not only that, they seems to exclude him from walking with them in the forest, they make fun of him about his eating habits and even try driving off without him. Tub, had an overweight problem and because of the cold temperatures and the snow he couldn’t keep up easily with his friends. â€Å"When Tub crossed the last fence into the toad the truck started moving. Tub had to run for it and just managed to grab hold of the tailgate and hoist himself into the bed. He lay there, panting. Kenny looked out the rear window and grinned.† Kenny kept taunting Tub about his weight all the while. Even though he appeared to be the most sensitive guy in the group, the reader sees a changed character in him at the end. It is probable that Kenny tortured Tub to an intolerable point and that Kenny’s joke backfired. It is through misunderstanding that Tub shoots Kenny. The difficulty that he was going through walking in the cold weather and troubled with himself bothered him enough and made him more and more impatient with time. Apparently we find the nice guy ending up shooting his friend Kenny. This reaction wasn’t expected from him but the reader can feel the frustration that this character has in his life and how the need of keeping warm made him leave his friend behind. Later in the story, Tub finally reveals to Frank the truth about his gluttony. Tub admits, â€Å"I’ve even got stuff (snacks)†¦ He who is â€Å"self conscious about his weight and in denial about his gluttony† apparently ends up in a confession while he tries to keep himself warm during their journey towards the hospital. Frank, on the other hand, seems much more mature and emotionally stable then Tub, while also seems to be the parent figure of the group. He â€Å"doesn’t care about his wife, and is in denial about his lust.† Frank was troubled with his family. He liked a fifteen year old girl who was his babysitter. The freezing temperature and his confused thoughts kept running through his head all the while. This prevented him from thinking rationally and therefore it did not bother him after Kenny was shot and lay freezing to death in the back of the truck. His selfishness was so obvious when kept talking only about himself. This reached its limit when he tried to keep himself warm and thereby ended up taking Kenny’s blankets and let him back there without any regret. He seemed to be the toughest one among them but when Tub couldn’t take him anymore and confronted him he backed up and showed otherwise. In the beginning, he seems like a simple guy. He just basically does whatever Kenny demands of him, and seems to be the calm, undemanding one of the trio. He tells Kenny and Tub to stop obsessing over the hunting: â€Å"‘Relax,’ Frank said. ‘You can’t hurry nature. If we’re meant to get that deer, we’ll get it. If we’re not, we won’t.’† (142). However, later in the story, the plot of the story begins to prove that Frank is not so innocent. He follows whoever has the most power at the moment. After the â€Å"power shift† from Kenny to Tub, Frank beings to follow Tub’s lead. He seems to not even care that his previous best friend is dying in the back of the truck†¦The hunting grounds and the cold weather makes them invariably confide in each other secrets about their personal lives, and enjoy each other’s company immensely. As the story continues, Tub and Frank become more interested in patching up their differences and less concerned with Kenny, to an extent that becomes strange. Kenny, appears to be the comic character of the bunch, and is always in a kind of light-hearted mood, joking around, even while shooting the dog. He â€Å"doesn’t care about anyone or anything.† Kenny appears to be going crazy in due course of time. With all playfulness he keeps saying â€Å"I hate that tree,† and shoots a tree. Next, he approaches the farmer’s dog, and says, â€Å"I hate that dog,† and shoots the dog. Finally, he approaches Tubs and says, â€Å"I hate you Tubs.†Ã‚   And this was when he was shot in his stomach by Tubs.   This reaction of Kenny’s shows his sheer desperation to an unsuccessful hunting trip. Frank and Tub even lie to Kenny at the end, letting him believe that he is being taken to the hospital even though they had no intentions of doing so. Kenny in the story bears the impact of cold to the maximum. He is left at the back in cold for a long time since Frank and Tubs were busy taking breaks to warm themselves up. His blankets are taken away to keep others warm. The story ends in a highly un- dramatic way, with Tub and Frank changing paths away from the hospital, and Kenny freezing in the truck bed, thinking he’s on his way to safety.   He tried to keep himself warm by repeating constantly that he is on his way to the hospital thereby fooling his own self till the end. His world comes to a standstill and he turns quieter than his usual self in pain and cold. His   pain made his brains numb and therefore even though he knew that he was no where near to the hospital, yet he kept repeating that he was on his way to the hospital. The monotony of words provided him the comfort of warmth. The freezing weather made these characters act erratically in the story. With Frank and Tub being in denial of what is happening, they neglected Kenny to the point of his death. Kenny lay at the back of the truck while Tub and Frank pull off to the side of the road three separate times, once for coffee, once to warm their hands from the frigid cold and a third time so Tub could hoard some pancakes because Frank felt pity for his seemingly unchangeable diet. These stops are increasingly random and seem completely inappropriate seeing that there is a man possibly dying in the back of the truck. This inconsiderate attitude of the three men who apparently called themselves as friends and the effect of their words targeted at each others weak points makes for a rather perverse realization that under these men’s simple appearances lies a cruel complexity of human nature, which is as frigid as the snow on the ground.† The reader realizes how all their internal problems plus the weather got into them and showed unexpected reactions from a group of friends that went on a trip. Wolff has taken an ordinary setting and environment of the woods and the snow,   and turned it into an extraordinary event for the three men participating in it. Literary critic, Karen Bernardo mentions, that the different turn the three friends have taken is away from being human beings, and towards being no better then animals.†    References: http://www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/26578.html Perrine’s Literature : Structure, Sound, and Sense (Hardcover); Thomas R. Arp (Author), Greg Johnson (Author) Bernardo, Karen. Tobias Wolff’s â€Å"Hunters in the Snow†. Storybites: A Taste of the World’s Best Short Stories. May 21, 2003.