Friday, November 8, 2019

A Historical Aspect of Ageism Essay Example

A Historical Aspect of Ageism Essay Example A Historical Aspect of Ageism Essay A Historical Aspect of Ageism Essay Identify 2 or 3 issues faced by the aging population. 1 Older adults experience unequal treatment, discrimination and prejudice in the workplace 2 Not growing old is not an option 3 Health problems Answer the following questions in 100 to 200 words each. Provide citations for all the sources you use. ?What is ageism? How does ageism influence the presence of diversity in society? Ageism is the [prejudice and discrimination against the elderly. Ageism reflects a deep uneasiness among young and middle-aged people about growing old. For many, old age symbolizes disease and death; seeing older adults serves as a reminder that they too may  someday become old and infirm. By contrast, society glorifies youth, seeing it as interchangeable with beauty and the future] (Schaefer, 2012). Ageism restricts the acceptance of the elderly by discriminating against them. The elderly are often referred to as â€Å"them† when most of us will one day be in that category. AGING AND DISABILITY WORKSHEET 3 ?What is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)? How does the ADA address issues for the aging population? The Americans with Disabilities Act was an anti-discrimination law that started in 1992, covering people with a disability, defined as a condition that â€Å"substantially limits† a â€Å"major life  activity† such as walking or seeing. It prohibits bias in employment, transportation, public accommodations, and telecommunication against people with disabilities. Businesses with more than 15 employees cannot refuse to hire a qualified applicant with a disability; these companies are expected to make a â€Å"reasonable accommodation† to permit such a worker to do the job. Commercial establishments such as office buildings, hotels, theaters, supermarkets, and dry cleaners are barred from denying service to people with disabilities (Schaefer, 2012). One of the  ways that the ADA addresses issues for the aging population is that it established requirements for businesses of all sizes (ADA, 2014). ?What is being done to address the issues you identified? [Many older adults with diminished heart and lung functions and reduced mobility will have placards or license plates for accessible parking. When parking is near the main door of the facility, these patrons have strength left after entering your business to shop, enjoy entertainment, or eat heartily. Clear, wide paths without stairs to the establishment’s entrance and throughout the  business leave room for canes and walkers and accommodate people with reduced mobility and stamina. Minimum-weight doors with accessible hardware are easily opened by people who have arthritis or use a cane for extra balance. For heavier doors, automatic and power-assisted openers are helpful to everyone. Entrances and aisles with adequate head clearance and minimal AGING AND DISABILITY WORKSHEET 4 projections into the path of travel result in easier navigation for people with lessened visual acuity or those who may be disoriented by clutter] (ADA, 2014) ?Is the number of aging population expected to rise in numbers or decrease? [The growth of the elderly population is projected to be over twenty one percent (21%) by 2050. An increasing proportion of the population will be composed of older people. This trend is expected to continue well through the twenty-first century as mortality declines and the postwar baby boomers age. Looking over a period of a century, we see the proportion over age 65 increases from less than one in 10 in 1960 to almost one in four by 2050] (Schaefer, 2012). ?What types of legislation may or may not be affected by the aging population? There are many issues facing the elderly today any many could involve legislation  affecting things as Social Security and Medicare healthcare benefits. The development and workings of groups aimed at protecting not only the threatened benefits of Social Security, Medicare, and other healthcare, but also other considerations for the elderly lifestyle are on the rise and proving to be helpful to our aging society as our Baby Boomers approach retirement age. ?How does poverty affect the aging population? Poverty among the elderly is seen as much less today as it was in the past. This can be attributed to pension plans and higher paying jobs that the people worked at. Although the rate of  poverty is declining in the elderly, poverty is still an issue. One major cause is the rising cost of AGING AND DISABILITY WORKSHEET 5 long term healthcare and medicines. With the increased life expectancy rates, this only compounds the problem as people are living longer. Part II Answer the following questions in 100 to 200 words each. Provide citations for all the sources you use. ?What does the ADA provide for people with disabilities? The ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, State and local government, public accommodations, commercial facilities, transportation, and  telecommunications. It also applies to the United States Congress. To be protected by the ADA, one must have a disability or have a relationship or association with an individual with a disability. An individual with a disability is defined by the ADA as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a person who has a history or record of such an impairment, or a person who is perceived by others as having such an impairment. The ADA does not specifically name all of the impairments that are covered (US Department of Justice, April 9, 2012). ?How have people with disabilities been treated in the past? Lukoff and Cohen (1972) note that some communities banished or Ill-treated the blind while others accorded them special privileges. In a comparison of the status of persons with disabilities in a number of non-occidental societies, Hanks and Hanks (1948) found wide differences. Persons with disabilities were completely rejected by some cultures, in others they were outcasts, while in some they were treated as economic liabilities and grudgingly kept alive AGING AND DISABILITY WORKSHEET 6 by their families. In other settings, persons with disabilities were tolerated and treated in  incidental ways, while in other cultures they were given respected status and allowed to participate to the fullest extent of their capability (Disability Studies Quarterly, 2014). ? How has the attitude toward people with disabilities changed over time? A Lou Harris poll conducted in 1991 was revealing and positive. For example, 98% of individuals questioned believe that all people, regardless of one’s ability, should have an opportunity to participate in mainstream society. Furthermore, there was a strong sentiment toward increased employment of persons with disabilities; 92% polled believed that employment  of persons with disabilities would be economically beneficial to society. There is a strong trend toward acceptance. These attitudes are in sharp contrast to the prevailing attitudes of the first half of this century. (University of Florida College of Dentistry, 2014) ?What are some unique circumstances or issues encountered by people with disabilities? There are numerous circumstances or issues encountered by people with disabilities daily. The task of accomplishing simple tasks can sometimes seem insurmountable. Those with physical disabilities must often times depend on the help of others to get along daily, let alone  pursue a meaningful life. Public transportation can be difficult; sidewalks are not always wheelchair friendly, doorways are sometimes not wide enough, print can be too small to read on menus. AGING AND DISABILITY WORKSHEET 7 ?What is being done to address those issues? Businesses that serve the public must modify policies and practices that discriminate against people with disabilities; comply with accessible design standards when constructing or altering facilities; remove barriers in existing facilities where readily achievable; and provide auxiliary aids and services when needed to ensure effective communication with people who  have hearing, vision, or speech impairments. All businesses, even those that do not serve the public, must comply with accessible design standards when constructing or altering facilities (ADA, 2014) ? What types of legislation have been introduced to address issues faced by people with disabilities? Following the original Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), including changes made by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (P. L. 110-325), which became effective on January 1, 2009. The ADA was originally enacted in public law format and later rearranged and published in the United States Code. The United States Code is divided into titles and chapters that classify laws according to their subject matter. Titles I, II, III, and V of the original law are codified in Title 42, chapter 126, of the United States Code beginning at section 12101. Title IV of the original law is codified in Title 47, chapter 5, of the United States Code. (ADA. gov, 2008) AGING AND DISABILITY WORKSHEET 8 References ADA. (2014). ADA Business Connection. Retrieved from ada. gov/business. htm ADA. gov. (2008). Americans With Disablities Act of 1990 As Amended. Retrieved from ada. gov/pubs/adastatute08. pdf Disability Studies Quarterly. (2014). Past and Present Perceptions Towards Disability: A Historical Perspective. Retrieved from sds. org/article/view/3197/3068 Schaefer, R. T. (2012). Racial and Ethnic Groups (13th ed. ). Bergen County, NJ: Merrill Prentice Hall. US Department of Justice. (April 9,2012). A Guide To Disability Rights Laws. Retrieved from ada. gov/cguide. htm University of Florida College of Dentristy. (2014). Societys Attitude Towards People with Disabilities. Retrieved from http://paul-burtner. dental. ufl. edu/oral-health-care-for- persons-with-disabilities/societys-attitude-towards-people-with-disabilities/

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

IB Physics HL Lab Report on Projectiles Essays

IB Physics HL Lab Report on Projectiles Essays IB Physics HL Lab Report on Projectiles Essay IB Physics HL Lab Report on Projectiles Essay Even if the actual measured results differ sensibly from the hypothetical values, we can clearly see that an inclination of 45 degrees generates a much longer distance travelled horizontally. During our experiment, water pressure was not constant and there could have been some fluctuations due to wind variation. Those uncertainties must be taken into consideration. Conclusion and Evaluation Our mathematical proof and hypothesis were right that in parabolic motion, 45 degrees offers the greatest horizontal distance travelled. The values recorded with an actual projectile and the values from the mathematical demonstration are not similar. But the general tendency of results is about the same. An angle of 45 degrees generates the longest distance travelled horizontally by a projectile and can be considered as the optimum angle. The variations of measurements made at 30 and 60 degrees are about the same as those calculated. The reason why the actual projectile registers greater horizontal values than in the mathematical proof is that the water pressure (Velocity of water) is larger than that what we assumed (10m/s) at first. In this experiment, honestly speaking, we would better try to find another method to get the data than from a hose directly connected to the water mains. The water pressure of Vietnam is not so stable. Even if it seems constant, there are sensible variations. For instance, when keeping the same position and angle, the hose spurted water with very different results. Sometimes the difference observed was more than one meter. Unstable water pressure may have lead to different velocities and different values. For the purpose of this experiment, we recorded the area where that water was mostly dropped. Additionally, we think that the wind factor should be considered, as the experiment was taking place outdoors. It may have affected the values in a considerable way. Some suggestions to improve the investigation may include carrying the experiment indoors as the results would not be affected by frontal and lateral wind interferences. It may also be sensible to find a source of water spray with a constant velocity. A canister of pressured water, or a projectile powered by a compressed gas would have a more constant velocity. The values registered might also be more accurate if we used a CCD camera to capture the trajectory of a small ball such as a bead.

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Research paper about lululemon Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 6

About lululemon - Research Paper Example According to this journal, Lulu Lemon has been in a position to sell approximately 95% of its products at a full price. This has been based on the strategy that involves offering fewer products in its outlets to ensure that consumer are instilled with a perception of scarcity (online.wsj.com). The core items are usually not placed on sale in most cases, in this case, when a client finds such products on the shelf, he or she feels that the product is scarce and will take it at the prices offered without considering any form of discount (online.wsj.com). In addition, the company has a strict return policy stating that no goods are supposed to be returned after fourteen days of sale; the policy also states the goods cannot be returned after they are washed worn: Such a policy has ensured its clients of the high quality of the products, thus determining the prices. The company does not rely on large quantities of data to determine their clients’ needs, thus the determination of pricing, but rather focuses on taking direct feedbacks from clients, thus making necessary improvements on their products, which also influences prices. According to Christine Day the new Company’s Chief Executive Officer, the application of large quantities of data retrieved from websites, focus groups as well as client-management relationship software to determine quality and track purchases, may provide invalid information, thus a false sense of security (www.businessinsider.com). The use of direct clientele feedback is crucial in redefining products as well as the determination of associated prices. Taking feedbacks from clients has been achieved through training its employees on eavesdropping as well as taking direct complaints from clients (www.businessinsider.com). The application of a product lifecycle is another strategy that has been applied by the company. The company ensures that when a new product, with a new color is introduced, it is

Friday, November 1, 2019

Brickman Vending Services Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Brickman Vending Services - Essay Example The sole trader structure also provides opportunities for claiming taxation advantages associated with business losses. This structure also provides advantages related to the capital gains tax, the sole trader is eligible by law to claim a 50% CGT reduction and the ability to write off expenses for a vehicle utilised for business purposes (Quinn Group 2012). The vending industry in the United Kingdom is valued at ?1.94 billion and there are currently 468,000 refreshment vending machines operating in the country (Research and Markets 2010). In most UK households, vending machine product purchases are representative of approximately 1.9 percent of total household spending on food (Research and Markets 2010). The statistics on the UK vending sales industry are highly favourable for ensuring profitability and revenue growth. Furthermore, total household expenditures on food for families in the UK increased by 5.3 percent in 2010 (Report Buyer 2011). In all respects, the vending industry in the UK represents a very auspicious opportunity for ensuring success of the start-up venture. 2.0 Mission and objectives The mission of Brickman Vending Services is distinctly customer-centric: Brickman Vending Services strives to provide a range of products that focus on serving the lifestyle needs of customers in the United Kingdom. From professionals to busy, on-the-go customers, Brickman Vending provides modernised service delivery and diversity of product for our valued buyers. The business maintains three distinct objectives achievable during the first year of operations. 1. Establish brand recognition for the business to establish a competitive brand presence. 2. Gain five percent of market share in the vending industry in the UK 3. Build market loyalty in the commercial business-to-business environment. 3.0 External market analyses There are approximately 300 vending competitors operating machines in the London region, where Brickman Vending Services will initially launch its vending business. Major competitors include Academy Beverage Company, Amazing Beveridge Company, Evend Ltd. and LTT Vending (Vendingmachine.co.uk 2013). This is representative of only the largest and most recognised vending companies in the London area. Despite the saturated market environment, there are opportunities associated with brand development for Brickman Vending that can serve to outperform the competitive reputations of major rivals. None of the aforementioned competitors maintain a strong brand in the UK, known largely by contractual experience in the commercial sales environment. The business model of vending services is easily replicable by competitors, in relation to the established vending supply network in the UK and the non-differentiated aspects of food products available in vending machines. Nandan (2005) indicates that the only genuine, tangible asset that cannot easily be copied by competition is the brand. After scanning the external competitive environme nt, a lack of brand presence by major competition is advantageous for building a consumer-centric brand personality that can be recalled by customers as a means of differentiating Brickman Vending from competitors. Thompson, Gamble and Strickland (2005) offer the work of Michael Porter regarding the external market characteristics that either serve to improve business position or

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Rhetorical analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

Rhetorical analysis - Essay Example The Crisis In Higher Education. This is the topic of the article to be discussed. It is an article by Carr Nicholas, published in the year 2012. The Crisis In Higher Education is an article pointing out on various predicaments that are faced in the field of higher education. In this article, Nicholas tends to inform individuals on more about higher institutions of learning and how predicaments can be controlled. In this case, he specializes in the line of e-learning where he explains more about it and how it can help students who use this technique in learning. He mentions some of the universities where this strategy has been implemented and its benefits to the institutions. Though there are drawbacks that are associated with this strategy, his aim is to make it clear to individuals that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Carr in his article aims at making individuals aware of the challenges that are faced in the field of higher education. Carr begins by mentioning that a hun dred years ago, higher education system seemed on the limit of a technological development. This is a technique used to capture the interest of the readers by informing them that technology was implemented some years back meaning it started sometimes back. In this case this is a technique used to inform the readers more about technology. He goes ahead explain that there are many universities today that are raising hopes of a revolution in the field of higher education. The universities pointed out in this case include: Stanford, Harvard, Princeton and MIT. This is another part in the article meant to educate individuals on the recent trends in higher education. Nicholas points out that in the world, not is every individual enthusiastic. He explains that with the use of online classes, at some point the quality of college education is diminished. This is due to the introduction of MOOCs which enables learning to take place online. He points out that distractions has occurred especial ly for the institutions that use this technique. He goes ahead to state that for such institutions, for effective learning processes to take place, high degree of automation has to be implemented. In this case, he wishes to instruct administrators in higher education institutions to implement this strategy for them to have effective online learning processes. Carr also points out that individuals who are skeptical of MOOCs give a warning that the real meaning of a higher institution lies in an interplay within between the teachers and students that cannot be replicated through machines no matter how classy the programming. This gives a clear impression that Carr does not agree with them because he supports the fact that e-learning can work effectively only id the high degree automation strategy is implemented. In this case, his message is convincing in that, he tries to explain how e-learning can work well for higher institutions. â€Å"The designers and promoters of MOOCs don†™t suggest that computers will make classrooms obsolete. But they do argue that online instruction will change the nature of teaching on campus, making it more engaging and efficient.† (Carr 40). Nicholas in this case tries to convince the readers that even though there are drawbacks that come along with the e-learing process, they can be dealt with and that the e-learners can study perfectly well just as those who attend a

Monday, October 28, 2019

Effectiveness of Personality Tests on Indigenous People Essay Example for Free

Effectiveness of Personality Tests on Indigenous People Essay Abstract This review seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of the standard personality tests on indigenous people. The two indigenous groups focused on are Native Americans and Aboriginal Australians. Several academic sources have been researched when creating this review. What was surprisingly discovered was the overwhelming evidence that presented a bias point of view outlining mainly the inappropriateness of personality tests. Introduction The term ‘inappropriate’ is universally defined as â€Å"not suitable or proper in the circumstances† (Brown, Robert T.;Reynolds 1999). Most standard personality tests among researchers are considered to be inappropriate for use with Aboriginal people in Australia and for Native Americans in the USA. (Brown, Robert T. ;Reynolds 1999). The following psychological assessment tests can be generally misleading to indigenous Australians and Native Americans which include: MMPI-2 (Abel 1973), The Westerman Aboriginal Checklist—Youth (WASC-Y), DSM IV-TR, ICD10, the ‘Who Am I’ test and the High school adolescent Clinical Inventory(Westerman 1997). Indigenous Austrlian – Test Review. The Australian Psychological Society has set guidelines for the conduct of psychological research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of Australia. One of which outlines that psychologists should take into account ethnicity and culture when making professional judgements with indigenous clients (N. D 1995). However, Tracy Westerman, psychologist and Managing Director of Indigenous Psychological Services(IPS) says the standard personality tests in Australia are subject to cultural bias and are a key reason why the tests are considered inappropriate for indigenous Australians(Westerman 1997). Consequently, indigenous Australians are unfairly penalized as they don’t experience the same culture as the dominant society (Westerman 1997). As a result, these indigenous Australians are inaccurately assessed which leads to an inaccurate diagnostic decision (Vicary 2003). One way personality tests are considered inappropriate for indigenous Australians are the content provided within the tests. The test content may have high cultural loading, in which a given test requires specific knowledge or experience with mainstream culture (Vicary 2003). For example, certain phrases or words used in certain tests are a disadvantage indigenous Australians. The meaning or unfamiliarity of the terminology used presents problems with the validity of such tests such as misinterpretation (Vicary 2003). For example, Westernman explains that a â€Å"suicide does not mean that someone has killed themselves† in the Aboriginal community. It means that they were cursed (Vicary 2003). Aboriginal people also do not speak English as a native language and therefore will have difficulty comprehending the wording of the test. For those reasons mentioned, MMPI-2 has been criticized by psychologists for its validity when examining diverse cultural groups(Wettinger, M). Westerman Wettinger (1997) state that the norms of testing indigenous Australians ‘have been described as out-dated’ and need to be replaced. Westerman has pointed out that a more practical approach should be undertaken when assessing aboriginal people as it is culturally acceptable for Aboriginal people to learn verbally(Westerman 1997). For example, when working with aboriginal children, oral tests and drawings are a useful means of testing as they allow children to tell stories. This is a culturally acceptable way for Aboriginal children pass on information and important messages. The Westerman Aboriginal checklist – Youth(WASC-Y) has implemented more effective methods of testing indigenous Australians. The WASC-Y is aimed at identifying early detection of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and suicidal behaviours for Aboriginal youths aged 13-17 (Pearson 2010). A prominent strength of the test is it does not require written competencies or numeracy skills, and is orally administered (Pearson 2010). Only an experienced psychologist who is skilled in dealing with indigenous Australians can administer the test(Pearson 2010). Although the WASC-Y has been claimed to be reliable when used to assess applicants for job positions or training programmes, companies are not enforced to use this test which is a barrier for indigenous Australians(Pearson 2010) Another major issue when considering the appropriateness of personality tests is examining whether or not the professional clinicians conducting the tests are â€Å"cross culturally competent†( Riggs, D 2004). The lack of cultural competence in past practice has been a contributing factor to the overall failure of systems of care for Aboriginal and Torres Islander Strait people (Brown, 2001; Garvey, 2007; Riggs, 2004). When utilizing standard measures, clinicians confirm to assumptions that the client is similar to the standardized population(Riggs, D 2004). This assumption is inappropriate when assessing a client from an indigenous culture. For example, Aboriginal people may not be familiar with test taking skills performed by dominant society which may also contribute to their poor performance in the test(Riggs, D 2004). Not understanding the impact of the indigenous clients cultural background could lead to inaccurate results and analysis by the clinician. It is considered the responsibility of the clinician to learn as much as possible about the client’s culture and to acknowledge any biases or prejudices they may have about the clients ethnic group(Dudgeon, P 2010). Furthermore, it is also the clinician’s responsibility to understand any historical issues relevant to Aboriginal people which may impact their lack of motivation and performance when being tested. Factors which cause this impact may include poverty, unemployment and limited educational opportunities(Dudgeon, P 2010). During the meetings between the clinicians and their indigenous clients, the clinicians should establish rapport, respect, and a therapeutic relationship with their clients(Westerman 1997). Rapport and communication problems may also exist between the clinician and the indigenous client due to different cultural backgrounds. As a result, the difficulties in rapport and communication may slow down the Aboriginals client’s ability respond to test items (Vicary 2003). For example, Westerman (1997) states that traditional psychological testing using the â€Å"question and answer† format in one on one situations presents difficulties amongst indigenous children and adults(Westerman 1997). This is because in some Aboriginal cultures, it is considered impolite to ask a question to someone who doesn’t know the answer (Westerman 1997). It is also beneficial to build rapport with indigenous clients to eliminate the ‘notion of whiteness’(Riggs 2004). This is the skeptisicm that may arise in the Aboriginal community due to the past actions of dominant society which may include taking of land or the stolen generation. Aboriginal clients may have a possible barrier of distrust toward the clinician which may be a apparent in the aboriginal community. This level of distrust may stem from any negative experiences the Aboriginal client has experienced in dominant society such as racism in their residential school or community(Riggs 2004). Indigenous American – Test Review Personality assessment services have also been considered culturally inappropriate for Native Americans living in the United States(Brown, Robert T. ;Reynolds, Cecil R. ;Whitaker, Jean S 1999). These assessments include globally recognized tests such as the MMPI and WAIS. Native Americans are said to face potential bias stemming from inappropriate test content, differential predictive validity, and bias introduced by language differences and social consequences due to labelling and prejudice (kaufman and Renolds 1983). A lack of knowledge for both the Native client and clinician increases the difficulties in finding a reliable accurate outcome of an assessment(Fuchs, D. , Young 2006). Clinicians are accused of not having enough historical knowledge about Native Americans while at the same time they assume that their Native American clients are culturally aware of how Western society operates(Fuchs, D., Young 2006). This assumption will cause difficulties for the clinician to assess a person from another culture with fairness and objectivity(Fuchs, D. , Young 2006). Psychologists in the USA have emphasised on an emic approach towards assessing Native Americans(Fuchs, D. , Young 2006). This means that only psychologists who specialize in studying and examining one particular culture would be allowed to assess that culture. It is agreed the assessor needs to build solid relationship with Native American clients while conducting an assessment(Abel 1973). This will help shape the clients expectations for the assessment interaction and possible outcomes of assessment(Abel 1973). Native Americans are said to be motivated by human value and approval rather than bureaucratic protocol. This means that structured formal situations between the assessors and the Native American client can be perceived as gratuitous and annoying to the client(Abel 1973). The relationships should be informal, based on respect and understanding, and continuous overtime (Abel 1973). In conclusion, it is evident that a culture clash between indigenous and western cultures is a major issue when performing psychological tests. While most tests gathered in this review deems psychological testing to be inappropriate, there are other tests such as the WASC-Y that specialize in understanding clients from diverse cultures which would be deemed more appropriate for use. It is also important to consider how much funding is being placed by governing bodies to develop more appropriate assessments for indigenous people.

Saturday, October 26, 2019

Isaac Asimovs Foundation - Psychohistory :: Isaac Asimov Foundation

Foundation   Psychohistory Psychohistory is the framework upon which Isaac Asimov's Foundation rests. It provides for diverse episodes about a variety of characters over a period 400 years, and those episodes feature a number of strong-minded individuals seeking solutions to a series of problems as they arise (Gunn 42). In the novel, these problems have all been fore-ordained long ago by Hari Seldon's science of psychohistory. Psychohistory is defined by Asimov as a "'profound statistical science' that deals with the reactions of human conglomerates to fixed social and economic stimuli" (Touponce 76). In short, this science predicts the future by treating humanity as one massive series of mathematical equations. However, the one drawback of psychohistory is that this science does not account for individual, random variables. Hari Seldon uses the science of psychohistory to predict the fall of the massive Galactic Empire. By using complex mathematical equations, Seldon is able to mathematically prove that the downfall of the Galactic Empire is eminent. In addition, psychohistory also adds a sense of determination and predestination to Foundation. The main characters in each book of the novel are aware that when a Seldon crisis occurs, they will manage to make the correct decisions leading to the inevitable turnout of the crisis. Seldon's prophesies "are revealed only after the fact, and even the solutions that he or others say are obvious are obvious only in retrospect, as in all good histories" (Gunn 41). This is first shown in "The Psychohistorians" when Salvor Hardin makes the decision that he must take over the management of the Foundation. This decision is logical in retrospect, but it causes Hardin much agonizing over the probable results of his actions before he does them. The dilemma experienced by Asimov's characters is how to achieve the predetermined outcome concocted by Seldon. The hero of the first Foundation, Salvor Hardin, decides to wait until the crisis limits his choices to only one course of action. He argues: ...the future isn't nebulous. It's been calculated out by Seldon and charted. Each successive crisis in our history is mapped out and each depends in a measure on the successful conclusion of the ones previous...At each crisis our freedom of actions would become circumscribed to the point where only one course of action was possible...As long as more than one course of action is possible, the crisis has not been reached.