Category: Mind

Purpose of the Book

The author of this masterpiece wanted to illuminate the challenges faced by many African Americans in the Jim Crow South. The book indicates that the construct of Jim Crow brought numerous troubles to many Africans Americans in the South. Litwack shows clearly that even the whites became slaves to the system (Litwack 421). Consequently, the system created a race war whereby both the whites and blacks found themselves in states of distress (Litwack 422).

By writing this book, the author informs the reader about the challenges and problems associated with Jim Crow. The most outstanding question is how the extraordinary courage of these African Americans brought them closer to their dreams.

Themes of the Book

The first theme evident in this book is white supremacy. Although the early 20^th century was described as a new beginning for many people in the United States, the problem of slavery continued to affect many African Americans. The Jim Crow construct emerged as an oppressive system that trapped African Americans. The whites supported the Jim Crow system in an attempt to maintain its significance (Tischauser 19). Throughout the period, the African American community struggled to achieve economic growth and accommodation. However, these efforts did not guarantee them the targeted human rights (Litwack 317).

The second theme portrayed in this book is struggle and courage. The text indicates that many African Americans worked tirelessly to create a new world that could support their goals. These individuals remained courageous despite the deaths and challenges affecting them. They gradually destroyed most of the barriers that deterred them from achieving their goals. The whites continued to inflect horror upon the African Americans in the South. The author goes further to explain how lynching exposed the moral character of the whites in the South (Litwack 312). The history of racism and slavery can therefore be used to analyze the issues addressed in this book. Several generations have interpreted the ongoing race war differently throughout the years.

Proving the Thesis

The thesis of this book is that many African Americans found new ways to circumvent the Jim Crow system constructed by the majority whites through racial segregation and manipulation of the judicial system. According to many African Americans, emancipation was a period of optimism and new possibilities. However, these expectations remained illusory since the system was unjust. Many African Americans were ambitious and worked tirelessly to achieve their potentials.

These individuals were harassed, short-changed, and lynched (Tischauser 56). This oppressive system derailed the assertiveness of every African American. However, the book shows clearly that the African Americans embraced new institutions in an attempt to preserve their humanity (Litwack 314). These efforts eventually established a new foundation for their future.

Summary of the Book

This masterpiece gives a detailed analysis of the experiences and challenges encountered in the South during Jim Crow period. The author examines the lives of different generations in the South. Across the generations, many African Americans were unable to have quality education. The whites created unjust systems and legal frameworks that made it impossible for them to pursue their dreams. The system made it hard for these African Americans to purchase land, engage in various economic activities, or become successful (Packard 72).

Misery and poverty remained common in the South. This was the case because the whites used every strategy to intimidate, punish, and lynch these African Americans. Nonetheless, the blacks established new institutions and cultural practices in order to preserve their dignity (Martin 52). At the end, these African Americans survived every form of difficulty and eventually realized most of their potentials. These issues therefore echo the themes and events discussed in our class.

Reaction

Slavery and optimistic are two words that can be used to summarize most of the issues described in the text. The author has painted a clear picture of the experiences and challenges encountered by many African Americans in the South. The book is worth reading because it shows the kind of struggle, poverty, hatred, and optimistic that characterized the Jim Crow system (Woodward 38). The book also explains how the system exposed the emotions of the two racial groups. This masterpiece has therefore widened my understanding of the major problems that defined the race war experienced in different parts of the country.

Relevance of the Book

This text is resourceful because it illustrates the events, challenges, and struggles of many African Americans in the South. As well, the book gives a clear picture of Jim Crow and how the system redefined the future of race relations in the country. The author also shows clearly that the legalization and enforcement of segregation was something that worsened the situation in the South throughout the early 20^th century (Alexander 76).

Today many African Americans have better lives in the country. The issues described in this book can therefore help the reader understand the history of race relations in the United States. The American society should therefore use the lessons gained from these race relations to promote equality.

Works Cited

Alexander, Michelle. The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness. New York, NY: New Press, 2013. Print.

Litwack, Leon. Trouble in Mind: Black Southerners in the Age of Jim Crow. New York, NY: Knopf, 1998. Print.

Martin, Charles. Benching Jim Crow. Champagne, IL: University of Illinois Press, 2010. Print.

Packard, Jerrold. American Nightmare: The History of Jim Crow. London: St. Martins Press, 2003. Print.

Tischauser, Leslie. Jim Crow Laws. Denver, CL: Greenwood, 2011. Print.

Woodward, Vann. The Strange Career of Jim Crow. New York, NY: Oxford University Press, 2001. Print.

Neuromarketing is often regarded as a new concept and a new approach to marketing research. However, this field is gaining momentum, and companies incorporate diverse neuromarketing methods into their research to get insights into the way people view products and related data. Harrell (2019) and Hsu (2017) shed light on the peculiarities of neuromarketing and its potential in the sphere of current marketing research. This paper includes a brief analysis of the articles by Harrell (2019) and Hsu (2017) that dwell upon the basics of neuromarketing.

First, both authors define the term and provide an overview of the history of neuromarketing. Harrell (2019) notes that neuromarketing is the measurement of physiological and neural signals to gain insight into customers motivations, preferences, and decisions, which can help inform creative advertising, product development, pricing, and other marketing areas (p. 64). Hsu (2017) refers to neuromarketing as a set of brain-based approaches that measure customers underlying thoughts, feelings, and intentions (p. 6). Although the researchers agree that the rapid development and deep interest in such measurements started in the 2000s, Hsu (2017) adds that this attention to brain-based methods dates as far back as the 1910s. At the beginning of the twentieth century, psychologists assumed that the human mind could be seen as a mechanism that determines peoples behavior and diverse mental states.

It is stressed that the field did not develop properly during the twentieth century as more traditional forms such as focus groups and surveys seemed sufficient and relevant. The cost of the implementation of conventional methods and neuromarketing differs considerably, so the former was a preferred strategy for decades (Hsu, 2017; Harrell, 2019). However, the validity and precision of these tools have been doubtful (Hsu, 2017). For instance, introspection measures can be appropriate for highly quantitative choices, such as pricing. The validity is the most compromised feature of conventional strategies. It is often argued that questions asked can be irrelevant or inappropriate, which can distort the findings, and customers can conceal their true reactions due to various reasons. Moreover, participants may try to be sincere, but due to the peculiarities of human memory and cognitive functions, they may simply forget or misinterpret important information, which may lead to wrong conclusions. Since neuromarketing explores the exact reactions of peoples minds, it is possible to elicit true mental responses. Harrel (2019) also emphasizes another benefit of neuromarketing, stating that brain-based research methods can predict customers future behavior, preferences, and mindsets.

Some of the most utilized neuromarketing techniques include fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging, EEG (electro-encephalogram), PET (positron emission tomography), eye tracking (gazing and pupillometry), biometrics, and facial coding. EEG is seen as the preferable method as it is the least expensive method, but it still provides relevant data (Hsu, 2017). Neuromarketing researchers explore different reactions of the brain (and its different zones) to various stimuli.

At the same time, neuromarketing also faces a considerable degree of criticism. Skeptics claim that neuroscience is still in its infancy, and people simply cannot interpret the data they obtain (Hsu, 2017). For instance, different reactions and functions are grouped in certain zones, so it can be impossible to estimate what exactly led to this or that response. However, Hsu (2017) states that brain-based techniques do not focus on specific zones but explore the correspondence between these regions. Therefore, due to the diverse types of techniques and measures, the received data is validated and relevant. The proponents of the use of the brain-based approach admit that there may be a certain lack of precision. The participants of neuromarketing studies are placed in laboratories, so their reaction will differ from the ones they will have in natural settings (Hsu, 2017). Harrel (2019) emphasizes that companies should also be cautious when choosing the laboratory, equipment providers, or research enterprise as this market is still developing and many unreliable vendors and businesses come into play.

The authors also address important aspects that are rarely addressed in marketing research. For instance, Hsu (2017) claims that brain-based approaches can provide valuable insights into the field of consumer behavior and become the ground for the development of theoretical frameworks. Harrel (2019) pays substantial attention to ethical concerns that can be associated with neuromarketing. The researcher notes that marketing research is not confined to customers reactions and predictions based on the elicited information. Marketing researchers also attempt to develop techniques to affect peoples behavior and choices, which raises diverse ethical issues (Harrel, 2019). Such techniques include better segmentation, sleep nudging, hormone manipulation, and temporary neural inhibition.

In conclusion, it is possible to state that Hsu (2017) and Harrel (2019) provide valuable insights into the specifics of neuromarketing and the way it is evolving. It is clear that marketers start incorporating brain-based approaches to promote diverse products and services. Technological and scientific advances enable companies to understand customers better and develop products people are more eager to purchase, as well as affect peoples behaviors to increase sales. Still, the field needs certain improvements associated with the validity of the results and conclusions. Ethical concerns also require special attention and need to be resolved.

References

Harrel, E. (2019). Neuromarketing: What you need to know. Harvard Business Review, 6470.

Hsu, M. (2017). Neuromarketing: Inside the mind of the consumer. Harvard Business Review, 118.

In this paper, I will defend the claim that people should limit their possessions to be less exposed to sudden misfortunes, made by Seneca in the dialogue On the Tranquility of Mind from the objection that sufficient property can repel any misfortune.

Explaining his views on the state of human mind and how a person can be made happy and content to the man named Serenus, Seneca states How far happier is he who is indebted to no man for anything except for what he can deprive himself of with the greatest ease! Since we, however, have not such strength of mind as this, we ought at any rate to diminish the extent of our property, in order to be less exposed to the assaults of fortune& (Seneca 262). That position does not mean that Seneca considers poverty a virtue by itself. What he actually means is that by limiting possessions to the bare minimum is beneficial to the spiritual state of a man. Without focusing on the outward appearances and pretence, one can achieve the tranquility of mind Serenus seeks. The man who limits himself thus is not exposed to the worries which huge wealth and responsibility impose. He does not need to worry about slaves, for example. The bellies of so many hungry creatures have to be filled: we must buy raiment for them, we must watch their most thievish hands& (Seneca 262) Seneca says, describing the troubles of having people who rely on you. The philosopher, as a Stoic, considers all the worldly things a burden which must be limited in order to achieve peace with oneself and the world. You do not need to seek poverty, but you also must not seek wealth, if you want to acquire the inner peace.

The obvious objection is that great wealth serves to prevent any misfortunes or troubles, thus helping us achieve peace and giving us the ability to focus on the spirituality. This objection seems extremely plausible. Every day we see people of great wealth who are free to spend their time in any way they see fit. They are seemingly untouched by the troubles of the regular people, living in huge houses with personal security guarding them, getting food from personal cooks and knowing no care in the world. Their lives are in open view for everyone to see, and as you compare their situation with your own, it seems that their wealth allows them to avoid a lot of the problems an average human has. They can work when they want and rest when they want. They can create and publish works of art without relying on their success for wellbeing. They can travel wherever to get inspiration for their works. All in all, it seems that Seneca must be wrong in his opinion, that having just enough is best for your mind and your spiritual state.

However, if you consider it carefully, the objection is much less sound than it seems at the first glance. Seneca states We never can so thoroughly defeat the vast diversity and malignity of misfortune with which we are threatened as not to feel the weight of many gusts if we offer a large spread of canvas to the wind: we must draw our affairs into a small compass, to make the darts of Fortune of no avail (Seneca 263). The philosopher wisely notes that the more we have, the more we are exposed to misfortune. While it may seem that a wealthy person is protected from the cruelties of fate by his possessions, in truth he is beset by them. Being responsible for all his vast property, he must also take care of it, protect it and nurture it, so that it does not diminish over time.

Thus, a person who tries to achieve the tranquility of mind by protecting himself with the shield of wealth has to constantly worry his mind with the necessity of protecting his position. Back in the days of Seneca, a wealthy person had to concern himself with protecting his house and his riches from criminals and rivals, as well as ensuring his possessions are spent wisely by his servants. Not a lot has changed since then. And in the modern day, the wealth of many celebrities relies on their public image as well. Not only do they have to worry about their wealth, but also have to maintain a certain outward appearance, day after day, to ensure their position in the world is stable. The outward serenity of the rich conceals a plethora of problems. And with bigger wealth come bigger problems. Thus, the view of Seneca seems justified. If one is seeking the inner peace, he must limit himself to the most basic necessities of the everyday life. Doing so helps the person be prepared for anything and severely limits the damage that misfortunes can bring him. The higher you climb, the harder you fall, as the saying goes.

Works Cited

Seneca, Annaeus L. Minor Dialogues; Together With The Dialogue On Clemency (1889). Trans. Aubrey Stewart. Whitefish, MT: Kessinger Publishing, 2010. Print.

• Topic: Mind mapping
• General purpose: To persuade
• Specific purpose: To persuade the audience to make steps to improve peoples learning experience.
• Thesis: Mind mapping is a creative way to organize a persons thoughts; images and words together are more engaging to peoples brains.

Steps

• Attention. Over twenty-five million people all over the world use a mind map as a tool for higher effectiveness. Mind mapping can be used by everyone, not only students who face the challenge of learning a lot of information on an everyday basis (Wu & Chen, 2018). Workers and business holders can also apply these principles and anyone who has the desire to improve their brain activity.
• Need. The mind map is an external mirror of our natural thinking facilitated by the influential graphic process, which provides the universal key to unlock the dynamic potential of the brain. People face many different challenges during the educational process and a lot of information to retain and learn.
• Satisfaction. Mind mapping is an excellent aid for learning for several reasons. Such maps make the brain use associations between different keywords, phrases, and images. Students can use them to brainstorm an idea for creative projects either alone or within a group. Moreover, these maps help them to plan and structure written works such as essays and presentations. A mind map can help an individual structure the thinking process with greater clarity to explore relationships between ideas and different elements.
• Visualization. By using mind mapping and organizing thoughts, people will be able to understand the knowledge better and use it in life to a more significant practical extent, which will positively affect their future.
• Mind mapping improves the long-term memory of actual information among various types of students by ten percent (Buzan, 2018). There is a study that demonstrates the fact that when students actually use mind mapping principles, they are able to increase their grades by twelve percent (Guerrero & Ramos, 2015).
• Action. The principles of mind mapping include the creation of a visual representation of information. It involves writing down a specific topic and then provide it with generating new ideas.

Persuasive Speech Outline

Introduction

• Attention material.

  • Have you been looking for ways to improve your learning experience? Have you been trying to find out how to retain knowledge? There is a tool that can help you, and it is mind mapping.
• Orienting material.

  • Mind mapping is one of the most influential creative tools that is enjoyed by over twenty-five million people around the world.

(Transition: why mind mapping is essential?)

Body

1. Mind mapping is a creative way to organize a persons thoughts; images and words together are more engaging to peoples brains.
2. The mind map is an external mirror of our natural thinking facilitated by the robust graphic process, which provides the universal key to unlock the dynamic potential of the brain. Human beings face many challenges during the educational process and a lot of information to retain and learn. (Transition: As we all say, a picture is worth a thousand words)
3. Images tend to be more memorable for the human brain than words.
4. Mind mapping helps the student to learn significant amounts of information.

Conclusion

• Mind mapping will improve our future
• Build and save your maps, organize your thoughts, and you will benefit now and in the future.

References

Buzan, T. (2018). Mind map mastery: The complete guide to learning and using the most powerful thinking tool in the universe. Watkins Media Limited.

Guerrero, J. M., & Ramos, P. (2015). Introduction to the applications of mind mapping in medicine. Imedpub.

Wu, T. T., & Chen, A. C. (2018). Combining e-books with mind mapping in a reciprocal teaching strategy for a classical Chinese course. Computers & Education, 116, 64-80. Web.

Introduction

In this paper, I provide a self-assessment of my research mind-set and skills. I also evaluate the link between researches and social changes. Finally, I explain a plan of the next steps I will take to become a researcher and scholar-practitioner. Therefore, I divide the body of this paper into three main parts: a self-assessment of my current research mind-set and skills, an evaluation of the relationship between researches and social changes. Finally, I present a plan of my next steps in becoming a researcher and scholar-practitioner.

A Self-assessment of my Current Research Mind-set and Skills

As an individual who intends to build a career in public administration, I have come to appreciate the role of research initiatives in public administration; the role has been detailed by Sushma (2010) and Quah (2010). Through this learning program, I have gained enough knowledge about the importance of research tools in the development of public policies and how the tools have been used to deal with several significant issues that touch on public administration (Frederickson, 2010). Most importantly, this learning experience has made me to believe that in order to be an effective public administration scholar, one has to be conversant with quantitative, qualitative and mixed research methods.

I have also gained a number of research skills that will enable me to excel as a public administration scholar. In this case, the research skills I have gained include how to design and execute research projects by utilizing quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods; the ability to use the methods is important to anybody who aspires to become a successful scholar (Dickson & Hargie, 2010).

Most importantly, I have appreciated the fact that a public administration scholar cannot succeed in conducting research studies without the voluntary participation of other scholars and members of different communities (Raadschelders, 2011).

Furthermore, the learning process has enabled me to think critically, particularly in relation to issues of public administration. Besides, I am able to plan for data collection through different methods. In addition, I am also able to analyze data, interpret results and disseminate the final information resulting from a research study.

An Evaluation of the Relationships between Researches and Social Changes

Whenever the concept of research comes to my mind, I immediately think of my role in the process of a social change; this is because I have come to appreciate the role of research initiatives in the society. Therefore, in this section, I discuss how researches are linked to issues of social changes.

It is important to note that the success of social changes depends on new information. In this regard, a research offers an opportunity for members of a community to access new information that relates to social needs (Coy, 2011). In addition, a research process provides stakeholders with an opportunity to organize members of a community around common social problems (Reeb, 2013). Consequently, a research initiative offers a collaborative approach for evaluating, analyzing and constructing or reconstructing communities (Wilmsen, 2012). Research has also been significant in terms of enabling the identification of local means of conceptualizing and defining specific problems, resources and various needs of a community (Rubin & Babbie, 2011).

With respect to public administration, research processes have been known to provide the most appropriate ground for an informed basis of reviewing, resisting and redefining matters that are related to political advocacies (Luton, 2010; McNabb, 2013). Moreover, the access to technologies has been democratized through different research initiatives. Through collaborative research programs, research partners have been able to work with communities in conserving cultural heritages, developing community resources and enhancing the process of democracy (McNabb, 2010).

Through mutual research plans, scholars are able to cooperate with communities in terms of promoting equity and justice in the context of diverse cultures within a community; this requires long-term commitments of various stakeholders (Wilmsen, 2012). Therefore, the tools of research have been very instrumental in assisting different communities and groups to exert their dominance over political, economic and social futures (Ledwith, 2011).

My Next Steps in Becoming a Researcher and Scholar-practitioner

Going through the doctorate learning process has enhanced my research skills. I must appreciate that this learning process has provided me with a strong base on which I am able to establish additional research skills, which will assist me in becoming a practical scholar in the field of public relations. To this effect, I intend to take certain steps in becoming a researcher.

My first step will be to work as an apprentice in the area of research. This implies that I intend to work competently under the supervision of a scholar with research experience, especially in the field of public administration. The apprenticeship will enable me to be able to take personal initiatives in research. After the apprenticeship, I will identify and work with colleagues who will also be involved in research issues that are related to my career. During this stage, I will focus on demonstrating my ability to take individual responsibilities and personal initiatives. In this regard, I plan to expertly complete research projects in collaboration with my colleagues.

After becoming an experienced scholar, I will engage in mentoring other upcoming researchers and scholars, who may include other individuals who would like to learn under apprenticeships. Besides, I also intend to begin conducting researches in various areas of public administration and later publish my work in various journals. Moreover, I will participate in the training of research students. In this regard, I will be able to share the knowledge I will have obtained from different research programs. To this end, I will have achieved the goal of becoming a researcher.

Conclusion

The process of conducting a self-assessment of my current mind-set and skills has allowed me to reflect on how much I have achieved in terms of gaining knowledge about quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research studies. This program has enabled me to have a different view of how research initiatives can assist members of a community to effect social changes, especially with respect to public administration.

During my pursuit of masters, I was able to acquire some research skills. However, the doctorate program has provided me with additional skills in relation to technical writing and critical thinking (Sushman, 2010). Therefore, this self-assessment initiative has enabled me to discern the skills that I have acquired, and also to determine the steps that I need to take in order to become an established scholar with critical research skills.

It is also important for me to mention that this self-assessment essay has given me the opportunity to reflect on the role that research projects play in the process of social changes. I have been able to critically think about how tools of research can help members of communities to generate new information that can assist in dealing with societal or communal problems.

List of References

Coy, P. G. (2011). Research in Social Movements, Conflicts and Change. Bingley, UK: Emerald Group Publishing.

Dickson, J., & Hargie, O. (2010). Skilled Interpersonal Communication: Research, Theory and Practice. Florence, KY: Routledge.

Frederickson, G. H. (2010). Social Equity and Public Administration: Origins, Developments, and Applications. Armonk, NY: M.E. Sharpe, Inc.

Ledwith, M. (2011). Community Development: A Critical Approach. Bristol, UK: The Policy Press.

Luton, L. S. (2010). Qualitative Research Approaches for Public Administration. Armonk, NY: M.E. Sharpe, Inc.

McNabb, D. E. (2013). Research Methods in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches. Armonk, NY: M.E. Sharpe, Inc.

Quah, J. (2010). Research in Public Policy Analysis and Management, Volume 19: Public Administration Singapore-Style. Bradford, GBR: Emerald Group Publishing Ltd.

Raadschelders, J. (2011). The Future of the Study of Public Administration: Embedding Research Object and Methodology in Epistemology and Ontology. Journal of Public Administration Review, 71(6), 916-924.

Reeb, R. N. (2013). Community Action Research: Benefits to Community Members and Service Providers. Florence, KY: Routledge.

Rubin, A., & Babbie, E. R. (2011). Research Methods for Social Work. London, UK: Cengage Learning.

Sushman, G. (2010). Research in Public Management and Administration. Jaipur, IND: Global Media.

Wilmsen, C. (2012). Partnerships for Empowerment: Participatory Research for Community-based Natural Resource Management. Florence, KY: Routledge.

The mind is a complicated body machine that can not be imagined. Research has shown that it weighs about 1.5-kilo grams and that it has more than 50 billion connections to the body through nerve endings and nerve cells. The brain is not independent but it works together with other parts that are directly connected to it to come up with a decision. Even though the brain can think of things it can not accomplish on its own it has to coordinate with other parts to accomplish its work. Though learning takes place in the mind, the mind does not work alone it has to work together with other parts of the body for the complete learning to take place. The connection between the body and the mind during the learning process remains to be a question to many. (Thinking with pictures 2009).

For the brain to work out and accomplish many of the things that take place in the body certain things play a great role in its functioning. These factors are senses that include taste, smell, hearing, seeing and touch. We should also know that our ideas and knowledge are patterns of connections. These patterns and ideas are what we call knowledge and knowledge results from learning. Learning can be said to be the process by which ideas are connected in the brain to come up with meaningful ideas, this is what makes up the learning process. (Palombo 2009).

There are different ways in which learning can take place, for instance, it can be through visual thinking. This is a process whereby you see something and you think through what you have seen, through this learning takes place in a persons mind. Researchers believe that this is the most powerful way of learning. There is a relationship and strong connection between the learning process, what one learns, and what one can remember. You can not remember something you havent learned. This relationship shows the interconnection which is there between senses which represent the whole body. This is because it accrues all the parts that form up the senses that are there in the body. At this point, we can now consider the process of learning. There are four essential learning skills; creating an interest in the subject being studied, sustaining concentration, organizing information, and constructing memorable new meaning. These learning skills represent the different senses that are there in the body and that help in the learning process. (Rosenkranz, 2003).

The body and mind work together in such a way that the mind coordinates the body to listen and be attentive to the learning process, after the process of learning they play role in solving the problems that arise and remembering them in the future. Brain operations form up a psychological state within a person, the psychological position of our minds is what supports the mental efforts that take place in the mind. Also, movement and exercises that we are engaged in helping to ensure that there is maximum learning taking place. (Palombo 2009) When we are emotionally at peace, our brains will function well and for a long time without problems. Whenever we think, the whole body has participated in a way. (Palombo 2009).

How does the body participate in thinking? To start with, the brain is made up of neurons, these neurons have receptors, and the receptors extend to the other parts of the body, with we can conclude that there is a physical body-mind connection. In addition to this, the neurons are made of proteins that we ingest into our bodies. Transmission of information from the brain to other parts of the body takes place through chemical transfer that is done through neurotransmitters that are carried out from one cell to the other in and outside the brain. (Ray, 2004).

The brain is also connected to the heart. Research shows that some of the neurons are made in places outside the brain. Some of the neurochemicals produced in the heart are epinephrine, norepinephrine, and oxytocin. The pulse produces waves that are usually engaged in carrying information from the heart to the other parts of the body including the brain. (Ray, 2004).

The organ of the learning-the brain- has to be fed. It gets hungry like any other part of the body and eating is the most powerful stimulant that affects it. The functioning of the brain will be affected by what we eat and when we eat and because of the kind of work, it performs it calls for high consumption of glucose. When we eat early in the day or while our bodies are still at work, food will be digested before we sleep, this means that important nutrients will be transported to the brain and other parts of the body where they are used to work rather than be deposited as fat. In short, the brain is active in a well-fed person. (Rosenkranz, 2003).

Carrying out activities is important since it helps to function the body and the brain. Research shows that apart from reducing the risk of heart attack, heap fracture, blood pressure, colon cancer, and lowering body weight, body exercise also increases the flow of blood to the brain which enhances its wellbeing and functioning. This affects the thought process, for instance, in activities like standing up and stretching after a period of mental hard work the mind gets an opportunity of getting refreshed. Physical activity helps the brain in various ways including; increased blood and oxygen flow to the brain, development of capillaries, and the release of transmitters that help sustain attention and the ability to concentrate. Through body exercise, our memory is sharpened, and our ability to sustain new information is increased. The brain has to be challenged for it to remain fit.

Mental exercises such as crossword puzzles, playing chess, and learning a new language, help the brain to be flexible. This is why in a classroom situation, the teacher should ensure that students move, breathe and love. (Learning and development 2008).

Meditation and prayer which are common actions bring a state of relaxation, which is both physically and mentally beneficial. Feelings of the body affect how the brain works. A sense of accomplishment, control, and purpose nourishes our brains and makes them plastic. (Thinking with pictures, 2009).

All the above are examples of body activities that affect the brain hence affecting the learning process. The brain has a physical connection with all the body organs implying that it cannot work effectively when one organ is not functioning. It has to be fed like any other part of the body, it has to be exercised, needs rest, and peace, and every other thing that the body organs require.

Reference

Learning and development, (2008). Web.

Polombo, W.R. (2009). The mind- Body connection in learning. Web. 

Ray O. How the mind hurts and heals the body. 2004; Vol. 59(1): pg 29-40.

Rosenkranz, et al, (2003) Affective style and in vivo immune response: Neurobehavioral mechanisms. Proc Natl Acad Sci, U.S.A.

Thinking with pictures (2009). Web.

The behavior under study is the Theory of the mind. This term is used in psychology to describe the ability to understand others by attributing mental states to them (Ho et al. 1). Previous research has revealed a lot concerning the Theory of the mind from which further research has been informed. This study dictated that children from 15 months can attribute an agent of false belief concerning the locus of an object through the utility of a spontaneous response task (Airenti 1). Additionally, previous literature confirms that the Theory of the mind is acquired at four years, according to Airenti (1). These two findings lead to the next concept already known for this subject; the puzzle of belief ascription (Airenti 1). Children as young as 3 fail the traditional false belief tasks, yet considerably younger kids succeed on the tasks requiring spontaneous responses.

In this study, the author strives to achieve the study objectives by determining the relationship between false belief tasks, the puzzle of belief ascription, and intersubjectivity and the Theory of the Mind. The dependent variable in the study is the Theory of the mind, while the independent variables include false belief tasks, the puzzle of belief ascription, and intersubjectivity (Airenti 2). The author builds on the hypothesis that intersubjectivity is more functional in explaining the Theory of the Mind than the puzzle of belief ascription. In other words, the author provides evidence that the puzzle of belief ascription defines the Theory of the Mind less accurately than intersubjectivity. The researchers utilize literature reviews of different works, including meta-analyses, to provide concrete answers to the ties between the independent and the dependent variables. The author uses experiments and secondary data analysis in a literature review as the methodology in this study.

Two interventions yielded vital results that informed the studys conclusions. The first intervention was an experiment on irony comprehension. It was established that young children below five did not do well in these tasks. In the second design, the experiment sought to determine childrens ability to comprehend the communicative intention of ironic utterances. It was established that even children below the age of 3 years could tell the non-seriousness of an ironic utterance (Airenti 2-3). As such, the author concludes that an explicit Theory of the Mind exists apart from a puzzle. The explicit Theory of the Mind is fundamental that intersubjectivity abilities take in children before they are four years of age and mature into adulthood. According to the authors remembering that the false belief task was created to evaluate the growth of the ability to express others beliefs directly is essential.

Given the findings stipulated by this research study, it is notable that human beings have been able to interact with others from birth. In and even outside of class, it is vital for people to understand each others actions and to become responsible in monitoring, adapting, and participating in communicative exchanges. Furthermore, people experience more light when they pause to reflect on their potential responses after properly reflecting on other peoples mental states. Through strategic thinking, people who communicate should imagine two possible scenarios and not assume an absolute. One situation may imply the existence of the Theory of the mind, while the other may not necessarily imply the existence of the Theory of the Mind.

Works Cited

Airenti, Gabriella. Theory of mind: a new perspective on the puzzle of belief ascription. Frontiers in Psychology 6 (2015): 1184.

Ho, Mark K., Rebecca Saxe, and Fiery Cushman. Planning with Theory of Mind. Trends in Cognitive Sciences (2022).

Theory of mind (ToM) is an integral social-cognitive skill encompassing a persons ability to attribute mental states. It is the ability to determine what others are thinking. The theory was coined by Premack and Woodruff in 1978, triggering various issues in human development (Meunier, 2017). It is one of the most important skills for getting along with other people. Having a theory of mind is crucial because it enables an individual to predict and understand how other people will act. During childhood development, children learn the fundamental abilities required to create their theory of mind, such as paying attention to others and mimicking what they do.

The Theorys Assumption Regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder

There are several assumptions from the theory of the mind about autism. Firstly, the theory assumes that people with autism cannot anticipate the mental state of others (Livingston et al., 2019). This is because they suffer from mind-blindness, which is the inability to read the mind of other people. This leads to social communication difficulties experienced by most individuals with the disorder. Secondly, the theory posits that individuals with autism cannot pass the false belief test. This is often used to test a young childs ability to understand how other people think.

The Techniques from The Theory

There are techniques derived from the theory of the mind that can be used to help a person with an autism spectrum disorder. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is an intervention that can be employed to deal with behavioral matters stemming from social or communication deficits. This can be used in training to reinforce appropriate behaviors. Mind mapping is a technique that can enhance an individuals ability to read the mind of other people. It enables them to determine the relationship between individual pieces of information. The other technique that can be utilized is cognitive behavioral therapy.

The Strengths and Limitations of The Theory of Mind

The theory of mind has strengths and weaknesses that can be explored. One of the strengths is that the theory has helped develop interventions to improve social interactions and communication among individuals with autism (Jara-Ettinger, 2019). The other strength of the theory is that the focus is on helping people see and understand how their minds work. However, the theory has failed to consider the existence of errors in reading the mind of others. There are people without autism who cannot read the mind of other people due to a lack of skills and capability (Cole & Millett, 2019). Another shortcoming is that the theory can make an individual hyperaware of how others perceive them.

Titles and Names of Journals

• The first journal title is Recent advances and new directions in measuring theory of mind in autistic adults. The authors of this journal are Livingston, Carr, and Shah. This research focused on describing the theory of mind and its development among people with autism.
• The second journal title is The closing of the theory of mind: A critique of perspective-taking. The authors illustrate the gaps in the theory of mind by illustrating peoples ability to read the mind of others. In addition, the article explores some of the shortcomings of the theory.
• The third articles title is Theory of mind as inverse reinforcement learning. It explains how the theory can be used to promote reinforcement learning. It focuses on the success of learning and the challenges the theory faces.

References

Cole, G. G., & Millett, A. C. (2019). The closing of the theory of mind: A critique of perspective-taking. Psychonomic bulletin & review, 26(6), 1787-1802. Web.

Jara-Ettinger, J. (2019). Theory of mind as inverse reinforcement learning. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, 29, 105-110. Web.

Livingston, L. A., Carr, B., & Shah, P. (2019). Recent advances and new directions in measuring theory of mind in autistic adults. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 49(4), 1738-1744. Web.

Meunier, H. (2017). Do monkeys have a theory of mind? How to answer the question? Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 82, 110-123. Web.

Introduction

The mind-body problem is a philosophical discussion explaining the relationship between the body and mind. Various past and modern philosophers have developed varied positions regarding whether the mind is independent of the body. Sufficient evidence shows that the mind is what the brain does and that both are interdependent. The article the mind-body problem by Paul M. Churchland examines the relationship between mind and body. The authors analysis comprises multiple theories in which philosophical experts explain the mind-body connections. Churchland seeks to understand the fundamental nature of mental states and processes, where minds come from, and if the mind survives the bodys disintegration. Dualism theory claims that the mind is a nonphysical thing independent of the physical body. This paper covers the analysis of the general subject, dualism from Descartes viewpoint, an individual perspective of the topic, and rebuttals. The discussion entails summarizing, thorough examination, critical reasoning, and arguing to reach a conclusion. The mind is primarily conscious of the physical body and the two are interdependent for proper functioning.

Overview of the Big Idea

The mind-body problem is the issue of understanding the relationship between the mind and body. Precisely, whether or not the mental states are part of or dependent on the physical body. There are many and varied philosophical positions regarding this topic. Indeed, experts established several theories to explain the special relationship between the body and mind. Philosophers have recently argued that neuroscience provided an answer to this question. They state that mental states are neural states and that mental phenomena can be discussed through physical vocabulary without losing meaning (Cathomas et al., 2019). The neurophilosophers Paul Churchland and Patricia have the most prominent positions in this subject. However, their understanding is vulnerable to developing neuroscience.

There is no evidence that the mind exists independent of the physical body. However, there is evidence that the mind is what the brain does and the brain here represents the physical body. It means mental states are interconnected with the physical body and cannot exist separately. For example, individuals with a flat line for an EEG do not show any properties of mind (Cathomas et al., 2019). Children born without brain or anencephaly do not equally show elements of the mind. Anesthesia changes brain function and makes the mind unconscious (Carvalho & Damasio, 2021). Furthermore, brain damage through either tumors, trauma or even stroke alters the functioning of the mind. In other words, brain changes significantly affect the minds functioning. In most cases, paralyzing the brain damages the mind, and one can no longer function effectively. Therefore, the mind depends on the physical body and cannot exist independently.

The mind-body problem also involves whether a machine can be created to adequately simulate the functions of the mind so that one can no longer differentiate the simulation from a human. This experiment is the essence of the Turin Test, and substantial progress has been attained so far (Cathomas et al., 2019). There is a possibility that it will change the future reality of the mind-body relationship. Such experiments were impossible a few decades ago, but with continued advancements in technology and technical knowledge, they will be possible. In the meantime, philosophers continue to review the existing evidence regarding mind-body relations. The evidence shows that mind-brain schism was developed out of ignorance and continues due to ignorance of the adequate empirical proof that the mind is emergent of brain property and is dependent on the brain (Carvalho & Damasio, 2021). Natural science has indicated that the mind is what the brain does. Studies show that 98% of modern psychologists believe that the mind results from brain function (Cathomas et al., 2019). Henceforth, the schism of mind-body relations should no longer exist following the massive evidence. However, the body of science development, like the one developing AI machines, has indicated the need to continue this investigation to beat the existing findings.

Area of Concentration

Dualism theory is a critical area to concentrate on because although it is not popularly accepted to explain the relations of body and mind, it is the most common theory of mind. All theories of dualism affirm that the essential nature of conscious intelligence exists in something nonphysical beyond computer science, physics, or neurophysiology (Churchland, 2015). The theory is deeply rooted in popular religious culture and beliefs; hence easy to relate with a significant population. Specifically, this discussion will focus on the substance dualism by Descartes.

In substance dualism theory, Descartes believes that a mind is a distinct nonphysical package whose identity is independent of the physical body. Therefore, the activities and mental states obtain their character from the activities and being a state of the nonphysical substance (Sellmann, 2019). In other words, the theorist provides that the mind develops and controls different cognitive responses. Further explanation of the theory states that a real person is not the material body but a thinking substance or mind-stuff distinct from the physical body (Churchland, 2015). The theorists perspective is that the mind is a ghost that can exist on its own after the body perishes. Therefore, although the mind formulates various mental states, it can live in the absence of the body.

Descartes reasoning is vivid and straightforward because they are based on direct introspection. According to Churchland (2015), Descartes believed he was a thinking substance and nothing else. He could also not imagine how a physical system could not use language or mathematical reasoning like a normal human. These perspectives are further supported by evidence that the human body relies on guts to take the following action (Bright, 2021). The human guts are triggered by a thinking process controlled by the mind. It is evident that humans would ignore their guts and still do the right thing. This only proves that the mind is separate from the body and that the body can function independently. Descartess viewpoint is based on the widespread religious view, which cannot be ignored in the real world. The mind-body relationship is like a religious belief, in which the believers cannot materially count for their constituents in the perspective of faith. The theorist believes that the mind exists as a ghost in a machine and, in this case, the body. The ghost or the spirit can live on its own should the body be eliminated. This narrative is similar to religious views that hold that the spirit will survive the bodys death and will later exist separately. However, Descartes is not sure about the composition of the mind but believes it exists.

Property dualism claims that the mind is composed of unique properties such as having pain, thinking of something, and desiring things. It is through the reaction of these brain properties that the body function accordingly. The property dualism theorist asserts that mental properties depend on the energy generated by the physical body for proper functioning (Churchland, 2015). Therefore, a mind separated from the body-mind does not function due to a lack of energy. A primary argument supporting dualism relates it to religion, a huge aspect of human life. Critics challenges dualism for lack of enough evidence to prove how possible it is for the body and mind to function independently.

Thoughts about the Topic

The human mind is primarily conscious of the physical body. The body shapes the sense of self where in this case, self is the mind. It is impossible to separate the human mind from the body. Each of the systems is dependent on the other for proper functioning. All body parts have sensory sections that stimulate feelings and send them to the brain. For example, one feels pain when a persons finger is hit. A physical action directly relates to a mental state, the pain. Another example is if a person bending suddenly raises their head because they thought about checking what is above or stretching their neck. The movement of the neck is the functioning of the physical body, and the thought is the mental process. Therefore, the two body systems function interdependently. It means that a mind process accounts for every physical state or action. If the mind or the body stops working, the other is also paralyzed. Consequently, a person in a coma cannot move various parts of their body because the state of the coma paralysis the mind as well as the physical body.

It is possible for the body to also trigger a minds response. A physical body can react while a person is in unconscious state of mind. For example, if a person unconsciously looks in a specific direction and later sees an approaching car, the real reason for turning their head is not directly related to a particular brain function. However, the state of the unconscious mind is not proof that the mind is not functioning. The mind is still working and focused on another mental state other than the current action. The process of unconsciousness also does not last for a long time before the mind focuses on the bodys reaction. The mind and the physical body can trigger a reaction that directly affects the other. For example, the eyes see an emotional video on the phone, the brain sends happiness signals to the mind, and the eyes tear down. The process involves a circle of reactions from both the body and mind. Therefore, there is no way the mind can exist on its own.

Rebuttals

The dualism theory is challenged for not proving that the mind is independent of the body and that it can exist without the physical body. The critics of this claim base their criticism on the scientific explanation of how the brain works. However, dualism theorists do not base their reasons on science. According to Churchland (2015), Descartes establishes his claims from a religious viewpoint. Religion is based on believing in the nonphysical existence of the mind as a spirit after death. Equally, Descartes believes that the mind can exist even upon the end of the body. That the nonphysical substance is independent of the physical form hence their functioning are separate. The activities and mental states obtain their character from the activities and are the state of the nonphysical substance. The dualism theory generally holds that the body is highly dependent on energy and hence can rely on it to survive.

The critics base their arguments on the scientific explanation of a nervous system serving the body and mind. According to Cathomas et al. (2019), the nervous system is the most complex part of the human body because it coordinates sensory information and actions by transmitting signals to and from various body parts. The body and mind are interdependent systems that cannot function upon disintegration. However, Descartes state that a person is a ghost in a machine. In this case, the mind is the real person who exists in a machine or the physical body. Descartes could not imagine why a physical system could not use language or mathematical reasoning like a normal human. Therefore, the mind is a separate package independent of the body.

Conclusion

Different theories explaining the mind-body problem provide varied opinions regarding the existence and functioning of the two systems. Dualism provides that the mind is an independent system whose functioning is not dependent on the body. While some theorists make more sense, others do not establish logic. Dualism, reduction materialism, and functionalism theories make reasonable claims about the mind-body relationship. Although they have limitations, their reasoning line aligns with the topic. Philosophical behaviorism and eliminative materialism theories barely attempted to explain the mind-body connection. The dualism theory is supported by the assumption that the mind is a ghost in a body. Therefore, researching modern research can provide a reliable answer about the relationship.

References

Bright, S. (2021). The mind body relationship. Mindful Inquisitor. Web.

Carvalho, G. B., & Damasio, A. (2021). Interoception and the origin of feelings: A new synthesis. BioEssays, 43(6), 20-61. Web.

Churchland, P. M. (2015). Matter and consciousness. The MIT Press.

Cathomas, F., Murrough, J. W., Nestler, E. J., Han, M. H., & Russo, S. J. (2019). Neurobiology of resilience: Interface between mind and body. Biological Psychiatry, 86(6), 410-420. Web.

Sellmann, J. D. (2019). Beyond dualism: A review of mind and body in early China. Journal of World Philosophies, 4(2), 166-172. Web.

Since the philosophy was first implemented as a science, the question of correlation and interrelation between human body and mind preoccupied numerous thinkers throughout the history. Descartes created one of the most influential theories of mind, which prevails to be the basis for subsequent elaborations on the given issue. However, some philosophers do not perceive Descartes theory to be efficient, and Gilbert Ryle is one of those thinkers. This paper aims to study and discuss Ryles critique of Descartes concept of body and mind and to explain the notions of a category mistake and ghost in the machine, which were implemented by Ryle.

In the given excerpt from his book, The Concept of Mind, Ryle briefly overviews the Descartes perception of the concepts of body and mind. The French philosopher argues that human bodies are situated in space, and they are exposed to the same mechanical laws of nature, which govern every material object of the existing world. On the contrary, the human mind is not presented anywhere in the space as the access to its development and performance is limited to the solemn individual. However, those two opposing institutions are closely connected because the mind does not function without the material sheath and it provides the power of self-movement while the stimuli of the external world affect the body and, respectively, it affects the human perception of the world (Rosen et al. 364). In general, this section briefly but concisely explains the Descartes theory.

Further, it is essential to dwell upon the Ryles criticism of the described theory. He suggests that Descartes approach is principally false, and, to prove his standpoint, he employs the notion of a category mistake. In Ryles terminology, a category mistake is a false assumption of considering some object or idea to be included in some category as an equal part (Rosen et al. 367). He provides several examples to illustrate his thought; however, I will provide an example of my own. When a person assumes that registered nurse is another subject in their curriculum, he or she makes a category mistake, since it is their major. Thus, based on the given notion, Ryle argues that Descartes theory of mind is also a subject of the mistaken categorization. According to Ryle, Descartes considered human mind as another mechanism, similar to the body, but of another kind. This assumption leads to the wrong conclusions since the mental process does not fall into the category of mechanical objects (Rosen et al. 369). Additionally, ghost in the machine is the Ryles metaphor of the Descartes idea of mind, represented as the operator of the body.

In conclusion, it is essential to notice that Descartes theory is still one of the most influential and profound theories. However, Ryles criticism provides an opposing point of view, which helps to understand the weaknesses of the French philosophers theory. Finally, this opposition gives an opportunity to elaborate on personal perception of body and mind interrelations.

Work Cited

Rosen, Gideon, et al., editors. The Norton Introduction to Philosophy. WW Norton & Company, 2015.