ICJ case Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

ICJ case - Assignment Example The Security Council can only seek the ICJ’s opinion regarding a certain case or decision (Angehr, 1017). This means that Abrocanto’s idea of demonstrating that the ICJ has a right of review is nullified. Ralivia is right since the Security Council has already passed the required resolutions on the matter. ICJ has the same rights as the Security Council and can only provide possible opinions, but only if the opinion is requested by the Security Council (Schweigman). Concerning the review over the Security Council’s actions in general, the role of ICJ in exercising review over the actions of the Security Council has remained unclear for many years. The has been initiated by the need of ICJ to rule according to international law on those disputes treated in the political process of the General Assembly and Security Council (Matheson). Essentially, the ICJ should hardly the roles of the other UN political organs in the course of maintaining international security. Being the principle organ of the UN according to article 92 does not make it to have absolute right over the other organs. The actions of the Security Council are thus independent of the ICJ (Schweigman, 31). Regarding matters of international peace and security in particular, the ICJ has the right to review the actions of the Security Council. The question of ICJ review of the Security Council regarding international matters can be established through the Lockerbie case 1, which was before the International Court of Justice for more than a decade (Angehr, 1007). The case dismissal in 2003 without any decision raised questions about judicial review regarding the UN major political organs and the decisions made. The review of the Security Council by the ICJ was the main agenda. The Security Council had sought a resolution urging Libya to turn over the required

The Perils of Business Process Outsourcing Essay

The Perils of Business Process Outsourcing - Essay Example Business organizations are often attracted by the prospects of lowering operation and administrative costs by looking for low-wage workforce to take in their processes. Managers also argue that BPO is a "management tool" which "frees companies to build upon their core competencies by leaving the non-core stuff to providers" (Banham 1). However, the above presumptions about BPO are myopic as they fail to recognize the costs associated with leaving the companies' processes to lower paid third world workers. First, as companies try to find less costly resources, the labor market in the home country usually suffers because of massive lay-off. It is also irrefutable that BPOs, like call centers, does more harm than advantage. Take Dell for instance which have always been regarded for its excellent customer service. This recognition for the company has been eroded due to the fact that India's customer agents often lack the knowledge and skill necessary to service customers (Dell Admits Indian Mistake). For these reasons, I believe that business process outsourcing is more detrimental than beneficial. Companies planning to outsource should rethink and weigh both quantitative and qualitative aspects of BPO. Banham, Russ. "Cut to the Core-Business Process Outsourcing-Statistical Data Included." CFO:Magazine for Senior Financial Executives. Oct. 2001.

South East Asian Financial Crisis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

South East Asian Financial Crisis - Essay Example Its primary function was to develop economic growth, social progress and cultural development. National resilience refers to all aspects of nation building - social, cultural, economic, ideological and political. It deals with security of nation emerging from the strength of national building. The member countries are ready to neglect short term losses in favor of long term achievements and friendships. ASEAN practice non-interference. It does not mean that the countries are indifferent to one another or close their eyes on member countries. The countries refrain from criticizing the other countries but support them in all their needs. In some ASEAN countries economic development has been given preference over income distribution and employment creation. This has resulted in poverty and income disparities existing along with economic growth. The creation of ASEAN was politically motivated. Its initial objective was to promote harmony among member nations as most of the nations were under security threat. Economic integration was the next priority. ASEAN Free Trade Area was to be formed in 2003 comprising all the 10 South East Asian countries. AFTA was earlier established in 1992 as a political and economic entity. The objective of ASEAN Standing Committee (ASC) is to ensure peace in the region and live in harmony respecting the geographic and historical boundary. (Hank, Lim (2005), Regional trade agreements and conflict: the case of Southeast Asia, available at, http://www.idrc.ca/en/ev-132673-201-1-DO_TOPIC.html ) The countries thought that free trade would benefit their economy. It was decided that zero tariffs should be the ultimate goal of AFTA. Originally, only Singapore was in favor of a free zone. Obviously, because, unlike other countries, it is without natural resources and is an export based entrepot economy. The motive behind the formation of AFTA was to attract foreign investments. But AFTA started running into problems right from the beginning itself. That is because some countries were more interested in protecting their domestic industries. AFTA has been considered as a developmental form of regionalism unlike open regionalism which is for globalization. In fact it is between open regionalism and resistance regionalism which tries to protect industries from globalization. However it is closer to open regionalism. Though almost all the countries were in favor of a free zone, at least some of them were against their home industries with high economic status being put at risk. For e xample, rice in Indonesia, Philippines and Malaysia and sugar in Indonesia and Philippines. Automobile industry is bound to suffer because of lack of tariff protection. Singapore is likely to suffer because of the unwillingness of ASEAN countries to accept AFTA. Singapore backs up not only APEC but also WTO. Creation of growth triangular natural economic territories also establishes security of economy. Apart from that they ensure political stability and friendliness between nations. It is being pointed that some of the members of the triangles were bitter enemies in the past. ASEAN has been successful in reducing conflicts among its member nations. AFTA went a step further by going for lower tariffs, which would boost intra regional trade and cement better relationship among

Critical Review of Skin Deep Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Critical Review of Skin Deep - Essay Example The blind date arranged for a wedding ceremony comically highlights the many difficulties both sisters are currently experiencing in their lives and relationships. The opening scene of the play shows the two sisters discussing their relational challenges and trying to defend their outward displays of everything going well. The married sister is named Sheila Whiting, and is played by Micahla Vaccaro. Sheila discusses her marriage and the multiple plastic surgeries she has undergone in order to remain looking young for her successful lawyer husband. The un-married sister is named Maureen Mulligan, and is played by Missy Lane. Maureen tries to carry on her dull and romantically enigmatic existence due to her issues with her weight. Acting as debutant and matchmaker, Mrs. Vaccaro tries to convince her husband to set her sister up on a blind date for an upcoming wedding. The husband character, named Squire Whiting and played by Bill Krause, plays along and accepts the responsibility of being a matchmaker. As revealed later in play, Mr. Whiting feels affection and respect for his sister-in-law, which almost creates a scandal. When all the characters realize the truth by witnessing a simple hug between the husband and sister-in-law, the relational tension that has built up for many years is released. Mrs. Lane is able to resolve her low self-image with the reality that someone does find her attractive, despite her weight and increasing age. Joe Spinelli, who was set up on a blind date with Maureen, is a simple and realistic man by trade. Played by Barry Chambers, Joe is an honest character who felt attraction to Maureen but remained conservative. Mr. Whiting and Mrs. Vaccaro came to the understanding that plastic surgery was not necessary, because he loves his wife just the way she is. The set-up date creates a sexual innuendo that reminds each character that they are attracted to each other. However, the dialogues between the characters remained predicta ble and contrived. Some of the scenes were lengthy and the outcomes were understood before the conclusion was revealed. The casting was age-appropriate and helped the audience to understand that everyone was experiencing a comedic mid-life crisis. My favorite actor, Mr. Chambers, was very spontaneous and quite realistic in his gesturing. The sexual sparing that occurs between him and Maureen invokes the idea of our own parents trying to date and relate to each other while maintaining a public front. My least favorite character was the married sister. Mrs. Vaccaro seemed too stiff and her use of voice and responses seemed overly rehearsed. Although the actress was apparently feeling physically ill during that particular production, her voice was difficult to hear and did not convincingly portray a married socialite who had received too much plastic surgery. Her husband, the lawyer, was not very convincing until the very last scene, and could have interacted more with his wife. The sc enic design of the play created a neutral environment through which many interactions could occur. The stage was set as a modern, though slightly dated, apartment that allowed the actors to engage with many set props and lighting styles. The doorway, elevated from the stage, created a good use of dramatic space with the

Modern Society Essay Example for Free

Modern Society Essay Modern society which is very complex and often contradictory has its origin in the ancient times as far back as 4000 years ago. Deeply rooted in spirituality, yet having equal attraction towards materialism, sometimes leading to unethical behaviour, inclination and commitment towards science, logic and reason, yet superstitious practices are rampant. Untouchability has been constitutionally abolished and caste and community based discrimination banned, its practice is common and it is a major tool of vote-bank politics in India. Thus, Indian society presents a contradictory picture and can be seen in the perspective of a society in the process of continued change or flux. Social change is a broader term which implies change in infrastructure, facilities and their distribution, change in thought, attitude and behaviour of the people, change in faith, culture, tradition and living styles, etc. Change is a natural inevitable process which continues in every age and will continue to happen even in future. Social infrastructure, cultural, attitudinal and behavioural changes do not remain static. They continuously change with the passage of time. It is the result of this natural process of change that life underwent sea change from the Stone Age to the Computer Age. Social change basically constitutes a transformation at all level of thought, behaviour and action that does not presuppose either a strict positive or negative impact. In fact, the impact cannot be confined to one direction only. Indeed the change has both positive and negative impact which may lead the society towards progress or regression. Social change is not a sudden process. It is a gradual process which takes lots of time to happen. Neither is it the result of any single factor. It is the result of so many factors which include demographic, technological, political, economic, cultural and legal. Generally, social conflict, growth and expansion and knowledge and scientific and technological advancement lead to social change. Indeed, the research and advancement in the field of science and technology bring about a change in the outlook of society. Besides, the demographic factors also contribute to social change. Rising population, rampant illiteracy, housing and health problems, large-scale migration, etc. all have a bearing on social climate. Rapid industrialisation resulting in economic development and urbanisation has brought about the growth of slums in urban areas as well as a great disparity in the standard of living. After independence, the country with the help of fundamental rights tried to bridge the social gap by providing right to equality to all its citizens and abolished untouchability. No doubt, it has a positive effect on society. It has brought about a decline in social discrimination and reduced the exploitation of the poor. Cultural factors like Sanskritisation, i. e. the process explaining the upward mobility of a sub-caste group in a caste hierarchy, traditional attitudes and customs of the people. Law is also an important tool to bring about social change. In the post-independence era, the Indian Government has taken numerous measures that concern society. The Constitution refuses to recognise the distinctions of religion, sect, caste, sex, etc. in the matter of the opportunities of civil life. It has largely mitigated a number of social evils resulting from the pluralisitc nature of Indian society with regard to religion and caste. Freedom of belief as a Fundamental Right has made religion a personal choice rather than its earlier compulsive and all- pervasive nature for a family or a group. Endogamous nature of casteism is now on the wane as intermarriage, and even inter- religious ones have been legalised. Reservations in jobs and freedom in the choice of vocations have encouraged vertical mobility of many families, irrespective of their caste and class affiliations. In short, laws play prominent role in social changes. Family, which has been almost universally considered the ideal and perfect living arrangement, and the backbone of social structure has undergone a transformation under the impact of industrialisation, urbanisation, spread of education, large-scale migration and other changes taking place in different spheres of life. Nuclear families have taken the place of joint family system. Common residence and property are being substituted by functional joint families, who fulfil their social obligations towards each other and come to help each other in their hours of need. Now old age is perceived with fear. This is rather recent phenomena. The old are now taken as a liability. Old age is viewed as an unavoidable, undesirable and problem-ridden phase of life. This is one of the gifts of modern life. In recent times, economic development and technological advancements have been rapid. They have an inevitable impact on social attitudes and values. This progress has led to the loss of cherished values. With enhanced earning, power and growing consumerism, the parents and children have altered their response to family life. The nature of parenting nd role of spouses have undergone sea change. Family bonds are eroding fast in society, it is particularly frequent in urban society where youngsters, in large numbers, migrate for studies or jobs, their parents, left alone, are faced with the problem of emotional loss and a fear of future. Economic independence has brought in its wake, individualism. In an economically independent society everybody wants to asse rt himself. A man wants his prominence in various spheres of life. He no longer likes to be ignored or undervalued. It has tremendously affected the woman. Now she wants her role in family and society as well. This is, in fact, a challenge to the traditional view of society that women as a class are inferior to men. However, her role in decision-making is assuming significance. Modern women are quite aware of their rights and privileges. At the same time social attitude towards women is also changing, though the process is slow. Today’s society is one of freedom and inquiry. In this age of individualism, authority is no longer unquestionably accepted by children. In this age of Information Technology, children are often more informal and aware than their parents. They no longer stand in awe of parents or any elderly persons. Human values and ethics have taken a backseat. Relations today are increasingly based on mercenary considerations. As a consequence, warmth and obligations have been lost in society. This, in a way, leads to conflict and confusion, adversely affecting family bonds or ties. Age old values of tolerance, hospitality, warmth of attachments, politeness and patience are fast fading out. However, some changes in society are pleasant and encouraging. Technological innovations have changed even the common people’s way of life. This change can be felt even at the village levels. The prevalence of superstitions and evil practices are no longer as frequent and common in society as they were during the pre-independence era. The accessibility of mass media has changed the village life also. The thinking behaviour and lifestyle of the villagers have tremendously changed. This exposure, though not always beneficial, has served to open Indian minds to receive new ideas and views. As a whole, the change on the mental level, has been slow, however, it is encouraging. Thus, at every level and in every sphere, Indian society is experiencing changes. The changes are more pronounced and noticeable in terms of dress, behaviour and egalitarianism while traditional beliefs, even if they are outdated and redundant, are practised and refuse to give up their hold on Indian society. Thus, the contradictory situations create confusion and sometimes lead to conflict. The prevailing anger and frustration arising out of inequality in development, loss of values accompanied by a greedy, grasping mercenary attitude, growing corruption on the part of authorities and the ‘elite’ find expression in the form of violent responses from the oppressed and the downtrodden. Several secessionist movements in different parts of the country are attributed to this retrogressive changes taking place in society. The change is inevitable in a dynamic society but it must be guided by some principles so as to ensure a better future and a progressive society in which everybody can enjoy his share in peace and prosperity. Besides people must be educated and enlightened enough to take its positive impact while ignoring the negatives for the betterment of individual as well as society.

Characteristics Of A Smartphone Operating System Computer Science Essay

Characteristics Of A Smartphone Operating System Computer Science Essay In todays world of computerization, you must have heard a lot about programming. Programming refers to a process which carries out a set of instructions to do a particular task. Presently, programming is extended beyond computers to various application systems, one such application system is Communication Devices, which covers telephone exchanges like PBX (Private Branch eXchange), ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network), Networking Devices like switches, router and terminal devices like ISDN phone, modems, mobile phones, and so on. Programming these devices is quite challenging in their own way as they involve challenging requirements like real time processing, multi-device handling, enormous features, friendly GUI, and so on. We in this unit have chosen smartphone a mobile phone variant as an example to describe the programming aspects associated with its functioning. In this unit, we will discuss as to what a Smartphone is and also its features that has made it so popular. We will also discuss about the Smartphone operating systems. You will find the necessity for an operating system in Smartphones and the characteristics that these operating systems support. You can easily relate many of the concepts to the mobile phone that you or your acquaintances might be using. Mobile phone usage has increased manifold over the past decade. ,A mobile phone (also called as cellular phone, cell phone or hand phone) is an electronic device which facilitates two-way telecommunications over a cellular network of base stations, or cell sites. A general classification of mobile phones based on features are: One is Feature phones, or low end phones, which offer basic services like making and receiving calls, radio (FM) services, and sending or receiving Short Message Services (SMS). The other is Smart phones, which offer more advanced technology, like connection to the World Wide Web (www), sending Multimedia Message Services (MMS), accessing Bluetooth and infrared applications, playing audio and video files, providing GPS functions etc,. Bluetooth is a wireless technology used to exchange data by connecting devices within short distance. Infrared is a wireless technology used to exchange data by connecting two electronic devices. A Smartphone is a remarkable invention; it is a mobile phone with more offerings that fits in your pocket and lets you communicate from anywhere in the world. The primary difference between mobile phones and Smartphones is that the Smartphones have complete operating software, which provides a standardized interface and platform for application developers. Smartphones are like laptops or miniature computers, and can perform a variety of functions. As the Smartphones have operating software and a standard interface, the users have the ability to add applications and upgrade features and services on their mobile phones. Let us see how Smartphones evolved. Today, with technological advancement, the Personal Computer (PC) is a part of everyday life as a productivity, entertainment, and communication device. Like laptops the Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) were introduced as mobile computing devices with less memory capacity. These PDAs, also known as handheld computers or palmtops, are electronic organizer or planner that can easily share any information with the computer. It is basically a high end organizer phone. The concept of Smartphone is obtained from the PDAs and mobile phones. Initially, PDAs were developed to access Internet while mobile phones were meant to receive calls, send messages, etc, Then the Smartphone was invented which had the ability to fit more functionality into a smaller device. Smartphones are a combination of the functionalities of mobile phone as well as the features of PDA. Like most inventions, Smartphones are built on a chain of prior technological advancements of semiconductor miniaturization, battery technology, display devices, touch panels, and the invention of telephone and wireless technology. We will be touching upon the features of Smartphone in detail in the subsequent sections. Self Assessment Questions A mobile phone is an electronic device which facilitates two-way telecommunications over a _____________ of base stations, or cell sites. Smartphones offer basic services like making and receiving calls. (True/False)? PDA stands for __________________. Smartphone Features Smartphone is a combination of both mobile phone and handheld computer, into a single device. Smartphone is a single device which allows users to store information (for example, e-mail) and install programs, along with the use as a mobile phone. We can say that a Smartphone is a mobile phone with some PDA functions integrated into the device or vice versa. The features offered by the Smartphones are the most important factor that has made it so prominent in the present day. Let us now discuss these features: Software: Smartphones are operated with the help of software to manage basic functions like address book, messaging, and searching stored data. The software in a Smartphone has advanced features that allow you to create and edit MS Office documents and download applications. Most of the Smartphones support full featured e-mail capabilities with the functionality of a complete Personal Organizer with book or binder, containing a calendar, address book, scheduler, and other such functions. Operating system: Smartphones comes with an operating system that supports various applications. It also helps to maintain the software and hardware used in these phones. The Symbian, Windows mobile, and Android are some examples of the operating systems used in Smartphones. Managing calls: The user can manage multiple calls (conference calls) and concurrent calls on the Smartphone with the help of User Interface (UI). Apart from changing the ring tones based on callers or groups, the cell phone allows you to record the calls in digital format and save them to your computer. Access to internet: With the introduction of Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity), Smartphone facilitates its users to access Internet at higher speed using the 3G technology (It is a third generation wireless technology that facilitates advanced multimedia access, global roaming, and high speed communication). Thereby the device helps you to browse your favourite websites, send and receive emails, and download games faster as you would do it on your desktop computers. It also facilitates users to automatically reformat the HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) pages for display on small screen. HTML is a markup language that is used to structure text, graphics, and sounds in a web page by the use of various tags. The device can also access Web2.0 content. Web 2.0 is related to web applications that provide interoperability, information sharing, and user friendly design Advance GPS features: The GPS (Global Positioning System) feature present in the Smartphone helps users to get driving directions, point of interest in the locality, or search businesses by using the gadget. The Smartphone users can obtain current location by connecting to portable GPS receiver or integrating a GPS receiver to the device. QWERTY keyboard: With a Smartphone, you can get a keyboard like the one that you use with your computer. You can use a physical keyboard to type on or a touch screen like an iPhone which is operated by software. An iPhone is a smartphone (product of Apple) which provides all the features of a smartphone such as, internet access, touch controls, and so on. Multimedia features: Smartphones are also featured with built-in digital camera and a sound recorder. Apart from taking still pictures, you can also record video clips. These features allow you to share the Multi Media Messages (MMS) with other Smartphones via email, Bluetooth or infrared with or without the help of additional software. Touch Screen: A Typical PDA has a touch screen, which is an electronic visual display or input device for entering data. These days most of the Smartphones have this feature allowing the user to easily select various features of the phone. The best place where you can experience the usage of the touch screen is in the ATMs (Automated Teller Machine), as most of the ATMs have a touch screen. ATM is a telecommunication device that provides financial assistance to the clients of a financial institution. ATM is also known as a Cashpoint.. An automated teller machine (ATM), also known as automatic banking machine (ABM), Cash Machine, or Cashpoint, is a computerised telecommunications device that provides the clients of a financial institution with access to financial transactions in a public space without the need for a cashier, human clerk or bank teller. Wireless Connectivity: Many Smartphones come with Wireless Wide-Area Networks. Latest Smartphones have Bluetooth wireless connectivity. It can be used to connect keyboards, headsets, GPS and many other accessories. Superior PDAs have Wi-Fi or WLAN (Wireless Local-Area Networks) connectivity, which can be used to connect to Wi-Fi hotspots or wireless networks. Messages: The Smartphone offers facility to send and receive not only text messages but also multi media messages. It facilitates to send and receive messages through e-mails. It even provides access to the web based messaging services such as, Yahoo messenger. Resolution and screen size: The Smartphone offers a high resolution screen and a big screen size that helps you to carry out different functions easily. Some Smartphones provide touch screen facility for better view and easy functioning of the device. Memory: This is an important feature as it is very essential to support various features such as operating system or screen resolution. As a user, memory means the flash memory storage chip where you can store all files and applications. The RAM (Random Access Memory) is the physical location in the chip where the operating system and other applications run. The RAM size for a Smartphone can be in the order of 10MB to 20MB. Besides the Ram, users can add flash memory for storing their data like contact details, songs, video recording etc. Flash Memory in a Smartphone is either inbuilt or can be installed as an add-on. The memory size of the Smartphone depends upon the manufacturer. For example, Apple iPhone 3GS Smartphone has a flash memory of 16GB that can be extendable up to 32GB. Synchronization facility: An important function of Smartphones is, synchronizing data with a computer. Most of the Smartphones come with the facility to synchronize to a PC. This feature allows maintaining the latest contact information stored on software like Microsoft Outlook. Thus, we can say that in contrast to the regular cell phone, a Smartphone offers advanced features as it combines the features of a cell phone and a PDA. Self Assessment Questions: A Smartphone is a combination of both ___________ and handheld computers into a single device. GPS stands for _____________. An important function of Smartphone is _______________ data with a PC. Activity 1: Examine few Smartphones and analyze the various features it provides. Mobile/Smartphone Operating System As you know that operating system is one of the important features of a mobile/Smartphone, let us now illustrate this feature.. In general an Operating System(OS) refers to a program that helps to run various other programs on a computer. It also manages the software and hardware of the system. The most important software in any Smartphone is its operating system. It is also referred as mobile platform. Need for mobile operating system The mobile operating system powers mobile devices like mobile phones, Smartphones, PDAs, and Tablet PCs (a wireless PC equipped with a touch screen and a digital pen). It manages the mobile device hardware, memory, and software resources. It controls the functioning, and the capabilities of a mobile device. The feature set, security, reliability, and the ease of use are not the only criteria that make a mobile platform good or bad, but also the flexibility of the mobile platform to integrate with diverse set of devices and software systems. A mobile operating system controls everything from handling the input obtained from touch screen, keyboard, or some external device to controlling the memory and the overall functioning of the device. It also manages the communication and the interplay between the mobile device and other compatible hardware such as, computers, televisions, or printers. Operating system manages and controls all the features and functionalities of the mobile device. Therefore, a Smartphone is a combination of the hardware and the operating system, which determines what capabilities it can or cannot support. As the operating system manages the hardware and software resources of Smartphones, it is responsible for determining the functions and features available on the device. Smartphone is a combination of mobile technology that is the mobile phone and PDA, which are based on the computer applications All Smartphones are embedded with an operating system which enables the operation of software applications. In addition to the principle features like phone calls and messaging, you can send e-mails, manage your personal and office documents, and visit websites for searching information, play online games, and read news. It also allows sharing and downloading of documents and applications. If a Smartphone is to allow multiple applications to run simultaneously, it must have an operating system that facilitates the sharing of processing and memory resources among multiple applications. Additionally, the operating system must allow users to switch between the active applications. Characteristics of a smartphone operating system Even though the functionality of an operating system used in computers and Smartphones are same, certain characteristics of a Smartphone operating system are different from the ones used in computers. The characteristics that a Smartphone operating system should comprise are as follows: Resource-limited hardware: Smartphones should be able to support various applications. It should also provide facility to access Internet. But to meet these requirements, Smartphones have limited memory and processing power when compared to the desktop PCs and Laptops. Thus, the operating system must be careful in using hardware resources especially memory. It should not only utilize less memory but also consist of architecture that provides support for applications to limit their use of memory. It should also have the capability to handle low-memory situations gracefully. Robustness: A user expects a mobile operating system to be robust. This means it should be strong and unlikely to fail or crash. The device must not only be designed to avoid crash, but must also provide support functions and policies. These support functions and policies allow the device to handle application errors and out-of-memory situations, without hampering the functionalities of the Smartphone. User interface for limited user hardware: The operating system should implement a user interface environment that is efficient and intuitive to use, despite the smaller screen and limited user input capabilities of the Smartphone. Furthermore, the screen sizes and input capabilities vary between different models of Smartphones, so the User Interface architecture should be flexible, such that it can be customized for the various user interface objects. Library support: Smartphone operating systems should contain middleware libraries and frameworks with APIs that implement and abstract the functionality of the features of the Smartphone. The purpose is to provide functional consistency and to ease the software development. Middleware library and framework is a software layer that acts as a mediatory between the application and the systems operating system. The middleware framework consists of a set of components that connects the application with the underlying OS. Examples of Smartphone middleware include libraries and frameworks for email, SMS, MMS, Bluetooth, cryptography, multimedia, User Interface features, and GSM or GPRS, which provide more support for Smartphone features. Popular mobile operating systems Some of the popular mobile operating systems are: Symbian Android BlackBerry Operating System Windows mobile Java enabled Garnet Operating System Linux Symbian: Symbian operating system is the most popular operating system used in most Smartphones and mobile phones today. The heritage of Symbian OS begins with some of the first handheld devices. This operating system began its existence in 1988 as SIBO (an acronym for 16-bit organizer). SIBO ran on computers developed by Psion Computers, which developed operating system to run on small footprint devices. It was designed with specific criteria that can be characterized by event-driven communications, using client-server relationships and stack-based configurations. Client-server describes the relation between two computer programs. The client program sends a service request to the server program. The server program fulfils the request. The Symbian operating system is developed using C++ programming language. The Symbian operating system is a mobile operating system that was specially built to run on a Smartphone platform. It fits in the memory of a mobile phone because of its compatibility. It is considered as a full fledged operating system. Symbian operating system supports multitasking and multithreading. Many processes can run concurrently, they can communicate with each other and utilize multiple threads that run internal to each process. It facilitates good support for graphics and data management. This operating system has a file system that is compatible with Microsoft Windows operating system. It even supports other file system implementations through a plug-in interface. It uses TCP/IP networking as well as several other communication interfaces, such as serial, infrared and Bluetooth. For example, Nokias bestseller Smartphone 6600 was developed using the Symbian operating system. Android: Android is an operating system for mobile devices that is developed by Google. .Android operating systems are based on the Linux kernel and the GNU software. Android has a large community of developers writing applications that has helped to extend the functionality of the devices. The developers write managed code in Java, controlling the device via Google-developed Java libraries. The Android operating systems offer a virtual machine that is optimized for the mobile devices. It provides a structured data storage by the use of SQLite. It facilitates with technologies such as, Bluetooth, 3G and WiFi that are hardware dependent. It enables reuse and replacements of components through an application framework. For example Sony Ericsson XPERIA X10 is developed using Android operating system. A virtual machine can be referred to an environment or a program that does not physically exists but is created inside another environment. BlackBerry operating system: The BlackBerry operating system is an e-mail based operating system introduced in a Smartphone device developed by the Canadian company, Research In Motion (RIM). It includes typical Smartphone applications like address book, calendar, to-do lists, and telephone capabilities. It supports push e-mail, mobile telephone, text messaging, Internet faxing, Web browsing and other wireless information services. It offers a multitasking environment which helps to perform more than one task at the same time. The system navigation is primarily accomplished by a scroll ball, or trackball in the middle of the device. It even offers support for WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) and Java Mobile Information Device Profile (MIDP). WAP helps to access mobile web from a Smartphone or a mobile phone. Java MIDP offers stipulation for employing Java on Smartphones. Windows Mobile: Windows Mobile is an operating system used in various mobile phones and Smartphones. It encompasses the entire software stack from the kernel to the application interface. This operating system is compatible with the Microsoft Office suite of programs. The current version is called Windows Mobile 6.5. It is based on the Windows CE 5.2 kernel. Additionally, third-party software development is available for Windows Mobile, and the software can be purchased via the Windows Marketplace for Mobile. Originally appearing as the Pocket PC 2000 operating system, most Windows Mobile devices come with a stylus pen, which is used to enter commands by tapping it on the screen. Windows CE is a modular operating system that serves as the foundation for several classes of devices. Windows Mobile is best described as a subset of platforms based on a Windows CE. Currently, Pocket PC (now called Windows Mobile Classic), Smartphone (Windows Mobile Standard), and PocketPC Phone Edition (Windows Mobile Professional) are the three main platforms under the Windows Mobile umbrella. Windows Mobile is a Microsoft-defined custom platform for general use in Smartphones and PDAs. It consists of a Microsoft-defined set of minimum profiles (Professional Edition, Premium Edition) of software and hardware that is supported. It provides feature rich OS and interface for cellular phone handsets. It offers productivity features to business users, such as email, as well as multimedia capabilities for consumers. Java enabled: Smartphones with Java based OS are also available. SavaJe is one such O.S. which is java based. It includes everything from the kernel to the user interface framework and application suite. SavaJes complete suite of applications for advanced mobile phones spans the entire spectrum of handset functionality, including: A phone application, for voice calls management. A universal messaging application with a simple and intuitive user interface for MMS, SMS, and e-mail messages. A universal browser for transparent access to WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) , HTML and XHTML (eXtensible Hyper Text Markup Language) sites. XHTML is a markup language that is similar to HTML, used in the creation of webpages and is a combination of HTML and XML. A multimedia application for still and video capture and playback, including camera control and multiple media players. A Personal Information Management (PIM) application for contacts, calendar, tasks, notes and alarms management and synchronization to a local PC or over-the-air. Garnet Operating System: This was formerly known as Palm OS. This operating system combines a Linux-based foundation with applications written for the old Palm OS. The Palm OS was mainly used in PDAs, though the Treo line of Smartphones used it as well. The Garnet Operating System is also referred as Palm OS5. It is a specialized operating system for powering portable hand-held devices, Smartphones, and PDAs from ACCESS Systems, who developed software products and platforms for web browsing, mobile phones, wireless handhelds, and other networked devices. The Garnet Operating System has a built-in PACE (Palm Application Compatibility Environment). Garnet Operating System is capable of supporting wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth, and Infrared. In addition to this functionality, it also offers standard support for a variety of screen resolutions. Linux: Linux is unique among the other operating systems. This is because its development is driven by a community of developers rather than by a single company such as Symbian operating system in Nokia phones and blackberry OS in blackberry phones. According to ARCchart, the Linux operating system supports more processors than other operating system, though the most popular phone models still use the Symbian operating system. However, Linux is an organic OS, where in, the developers constantly change and update it even at the kernel level platforms. Six telecommunication companies are responding to this by forming the LiMo foundation, an organization that is attempting to create a standardized Linux platform. Smartphones based on the open source Linux operating system have emerged in the market. There are many advantages to using an open-source operating system like Linux. No cost and the opportunity to tap into the Linux open source community are appealing. This has made Linux grow, not only for the server and PC market space, but also in the embedded device area including handheld computers. For example, Motorola that is a notable supporter of Linux has released the A760 Smartphone based on this operating system. Linux may become the preferred operating system in full featured mobile terminals as well as a variety of embedded systems. Linux-powered Smartphone will hold an important position in the near future. Advantages and disadvantages of smartphones The usage of Smartphones is on the rise. The reason behind this widespread usage is because Smartphones provide enhanced features to users. Let us look at some of the advantages that Smartphones have: We can download applications or important data on-the-go. It is easier for us to carry a Smartphone when compared to a laptop or a PDA. We can incorporate different functionalities into a small device. 3G Internet allows us to browse the Internet at speeds faster than our internet connection at home. But Smartphones do have the following disadvantages when compared to Feature phones: Smartphones are generally high-priced because they support multiple features. To use all the wireless tools provided within the Smartphone, we would require an expensive wireless data plan. Self Assessment Questions _____________ operating system began its existence in 1988 as SIBO. Palm OS operating system combines a __________foundation with applications written for the old Palm OS. Windows Mobile OS is based on windows _____________. Android is an operating system for mobile devices that was developed by ____________. Windows Mobile operating system was developed by __________. The SavaJe OS is a __________ based system that includes everything from the kernel to the user interface framework and application suite. Garnet OS was formerly known as Palm OS.(True/False)? Activity 2: Check out few mobile phones in your contacts and find out which operating system is used and write down a comparison of the features offered. Summary In this unit we started with underlying the concept of Smartphones. We learnt that a Smartphone refers to a handheld device that offers the functionality of a mobile phone as well as the PDAs. We also came to know about the various features provided by Smartphones such as, operating system, software, access to internet, QWERTY keyboard, advanced GPS features, touch screen, memory, and so on. Then we discussed about the mobile or Smartphone operating system in detail. Here, we discussed the necessity for a mobile operating system. Furthermore, we even discussed the characteristics of a Smartphone operating system such as, robustness; resource limited hardware, user interface for limited user hardware, and library support. Later we also discussed about the various operating system support by these Smartphones or mobile phone. This includes operating systems such as Symbian, Android, Blackberry OS, Windows Mobile, Garnet OS, Java, and Linux. Glossary Let us have an overview of the important terms mentioned in the unit: Bluetooth: An open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances using short length radio waves from fixed and mobile devices Kernel: Is the central component of most computer operating systems, it is a bridge between applications and the actual data processing Middleware: Software that mediates between the application program and a network. Multitasking: It refers to the ability of the operating system to quickly switch between tasks, giving the appearance of simultaneous execution of tasks Multithreading: It widens the idea of multitasking into applications, so that specific operations within a single application can be subdivided into individual threads. SavaJe OS: A Java OS for advanced mobile phones. Developers can create better user interface using this OS. Thread: it is a light weight process. It is a single flow of with a process. QWERTY: It is the most used modern-day keyboard layout on English-language computer and typewriter keyboards. It takes its name from the first six characters Wi-fi: Networks build used for wireless network. Terminal Questions What is a Mobile Operating System? Name the types of mobile operating systems available in the market. List down various features of a Smartphone. What is a Symbian Operating System? Explain briefly the advantages and disadvantages of Smartphones Answers Self Assessment Questions Cellular network False Personal Digital Assistant Mobile phone Global Positioning System Synchronize Symbian Linux-based CE 5.2 kernel Google Microsoft Java True Terminal Questions Refer section 1.4 The Mobile/Smartphone Operating System that describes mobile platform. Refer sub-section 1.4.3 Popular mobile operating systems, which tells the various platforms used to develop a Smartphone. Refer section 1.3 Smartphone Features that describes the QWERTY keyboard and touch screen and other features. Nokias bestseller Smartphone 6600 was developed using this operating system. Refer sub-section 1.4.3 Popular mobile operating systems for details. Refer section 1.5 which lists various advantages and disadvantages of Smartphones. References and Suggested Readings Jochen Schiller (2009), Mobile Communications (Second Edition). E-References http://www.3gamericas.org. http://developer.symbian.com/main. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/WinHistoryIntro.mspx.

Bishop Orders His Tomb at Saint Praxeds Church and The Love Song of Al

Bishop Orders His Tomb at Saint Praxed's Church and The Love Song of Alfred J. Prufrock       The span of time from the Victorian age of Literature to the Modernism of the 20th century wrought many changes in poetry style and literary thinking. While both eras contained elements of self-scrutiny, the various forms and reasoning behind such thinking were vastly different. The Victorian age, with it's new industrialization of society, brought to poetry and literature the fictional character, seeing the world from another's eyes.   It was also a time in which "Victorian authors and intellectuals found a way to reassert religious ideas" (Longman, p. 1790). Society was questioning the ideals of religion, yet people wanted to believe.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In contrast, the 20th century found no such religious fervor in its literature. "They [writers] saw their times as marked by accelerating social and technological change" (Longman, p. 2165).   Modern writers were skeptics, questioning every aspect of social unity, politics, and religion. "In the modern period the quest for certainty associated with the Victorian exploration of values has vanished" (Longman, p. 2167).      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Yet many elements of literature remained throughout the changes in historical literature. Dramatic monologue were still used, as evidenced in Browning's "The Bishop Orders His Tomb at Saint Praxed's Church" and Eliot's "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock".   Both contained this style of dramatic monologue, seeing a worldview through the eyes of a fictitious character. Browning's poem lies in the voice of a Bishop, giving instructions for the burial and tomb construction as he lays dieing.   Eliot's poem, sees the world through Alfred J. Pr... ...yric in expression" (Longman, p. 1958) while Eliot's poem is "chaotic, irregular and fragmentary" (Longman. p. 2416).   Both poems deal with loneliness, isolation and internal alienation, yet Browning's Bishop seems to be isolated from without, from the world, and Eliot's Prufrock is isolated from within, creating his own alienation from the world. These concepts, while not new, were carried over time, expressed in both the Victorian era and in the new Modernism, yet this theme, from these two poems, takes on a completely different viewpoint relative to the differing ideologies of the era's in which they represent.    Longman citations   refer to page numbers of Eng 103 course text, Spring 2001: Damrosch, David, et al., ed.   The Longman Anthology of British Literature:   Ã‚  Ã‚   Vol. B.   Compact ed.   New York: Longman - Addison Wesley Longman, 2000.