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Governance in Learning Institutions Report (Assessment) Governance In the modern society, the issue of governance has become very critical to organizations. According to Certo (2010), both for-profit and nonprofit making organizations are keen on embracing governance structures that can manipulate internal and external environmental forces. Firms such as Apple Inc, Microsoft, and Coca Cola among others have achieved success because of their governance structures. The issue of governance has become very critical in learning institutions across the world. In the United States, schools are now trying to embrace different governance strategies to ensure that they operate effectively. They not only have to meet the expectation of the teaching staffs but also manage large number of students who may sometime become rowdy. Scholars have conducted researches in this field as they try to help various institutions to come up with ways that can help them manage their organizations in a better way. In this paper, the researcher seeks to compare Fish’s views of governance to that of Manning. Fish’s Governance Views The purpose of mission and goals According to Fish (2007), each organization is uniquely constituted based on its size, number of employees, and how it relates to the local, state, national and international forces. There can never be a single governance system that can be effectively used to run different firms. That is why missions and goals are important and very unique to individual firms. These statements define what they should achieve and means through which stakeholders will use to reach the intended destination (DuBrin, 2011). Communication Fish (2007) emphasizes on the need to maintain proper communication. According to this scholar, a firm’s success is largely based on its ability to collect, process, and share information amongst all the relevant stakeholders within the expected timeframe. Information is power in the modern world, and every entity is under pressure to find ways of collecting the needed information at the right time and making good use of it. Decision-making In the past, top managers were always in charge of making all the decisions while the junior employees were expected to implement plans presented to them. Fish (2007) says that this should not be the case. Decision-making process should involve all the stakeholders irrespective of their positions in the management. This way, it becomes easy to implement these decisions because everyone will feel that they are part of the system. Role of management Management’s role is to offer leadership and direction in addressing various activities in our society. As Northouse (2010) says, it is practically impossible to manage people and achieve with them the desired success. What a manager can do is to offer leadership to the junior officers and direct them on how to handle various tasks in their workplaces. Managers must learn to be good listeners and they should always seek to find ways of addressing issues that affect the employees. They should create an enabling environment where employees can work without feeling pressured, intimidated, or enslaved. Shared governance Governance is the responsibility of every member of an organization. It cannot be a preserve for the top leaders or mid-managers. Involving stakeholders in governance is the only way that a firm can achieve success in the current society. Manning’s Governance Views The purpose of mission and goals According to Manning (2013), mission and vision statements help to define what an organization seeks to achieve and how it would be achieved. Goals explain the individual aims that are to be achieved within a specified period. Missions and goals are developed based on the current status of a firm and external environmental forces. It must be realistic and conscious of both the positive and negative influences of the environment. Communication From her point of view, communication should be structured in a way that allows people to share information, but in a structured format. Although she is opposed to a rigid communication structure where message has to be passed to the immediate boss, she holds that there should be sanity when junior employees are communicating with the top managers. Only specific information should be taken to top managers. Decision-making Unlike Fish, Manning feels that decision-making process should be left for the top and mid-level managers. She says that junior employees can be allowed to participate in the process by reporting on their experiences and views on what should be addressed. Role of management The role of management in any organization is to lead the junior employees towards a given desired destination through practical means. She feels that instead of directing people, a leader should be part of the team that seeks to find solutions to environmental issues (Reiß, 2012). Shared governance Manning (2013) argues that governance cannot be universally defined because different organizations may find different models appropriate for them. However, it is universally acceptable to involve all the stakeholders in this process. Conclusion From the analysis above, it is clear that the two scholars share a number of views on the issue of governance. They both contend that there can never be a universal model of governance. However, they differ when it comes to decision-making. Fisher feels that all the stakeholders should be involved while Manning argues that this should be the role of the top managers. References Certo, S. C. (2010). Supervision: Concepts and skill-building. New York: McGraw-Hill Irwin. DuBrin, A. (2011). Leadership: Research findings, practice, and skills. South-Western: Cengage Learning. Fish, S. (2007). Shared Governance: Democracy is Not an Educational Idea by Stanley Fish. Change 4 (3), 8-13. Manning, K. (2013). Organizational theory in higher education . New York: Routledge. Northouse, P. G. (2010). Leadership: Theory and practice . Thousand Oaks: Sage Publications. Reiß, M. (2012). Change management: A balanced and blended approach . Norderstedt: Books on Demand. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
BP Oil Spill and Its Effects Cause and Effect Essay The BP oil spill, also referred to as the Deepwater Horizon oil spill is the worst oil spill in history that took place in the Gulf of Mexico for about ninety days in 2010 and its effects are still being felt even after the release of oil into the environment was stopped. Whereas there are other purportedly extensive oil leaks to the environment that have taken place in the past, such as the 1979-1980 Ixtoc I oil spill in Mexico that released about thirty thousand barrels of oil per day and lasted for nine months, the BP oil spill remains the most catastrophic in the history of the petroleum industry (National Research Council,567). The gushing out of oil started on April 20, 2010 following an explosion and subsequent fire of the Deepwater Horizon and after trying several options, the seep out was at last ended on July 15, 2010 by capping the gushing wellhead (Corn and Copeland, 1). The disaster led to the death of eleven workers of the oil company and injured seventeen others. Scientists approximated that over 50, 0000 barrels of oil per day were being released into the environment before the leak was successfully stopped (Robertson and Krauss, para. 6). The environment problem caused extensive damages. The cause of the BP oil disaster has been attributed to many reasons, but chief among them is negligence. Surely, the company was not trying to blow up its own well; however, the actions it took before the disaster reveal that it was courting imminent problems (Romm, para. 4). Since BP was trying to finish the project as per the initial plans, the company engineers opted for a series of shortcuts that went contrary to the standard practices of effectively drilling oil wells. For example, the company engineers used an inefficient casing material design and avoided intermittent testing for backpressure among other malfunctions in standard safety procedures. These conscious judgments to undermine safety procedures and practices indicate that the negligence of the company was the prime cause of the disaster. Conversely, prior to the incident, BP had spent many dollars on improving its public image. Thus, the incident meant that the company was trying to improve its brand while neglecting to address its own intricate issues, such as fake workers policy. Further, the report of the staff of the presidential commission investigating the BP oil spill incident released on December 2, 2010, revealed that the federal inspectors failed to act professionally in inspecting oil rig operations, the inspectors are poorly trained in effectively performing their duties, and there is inadequate availability of resources for handling such catastrophes (Mintz, para.1). The BP oil spill had devastating effects to the environment. The incident was the worst environment catastrophe that the United States has encountered in history, nearly twenty times greater than the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill (Wells, 4). The disaster led to widespread damage to marine and wildlife habitats in the area. In addition, the fishing and tourism industries in the area also recorded a decrease in earnings. Similar to the Exxon Valdez oil spill, some effects of the BP oil spill will be felt in years to come. The consequences of the disaster are threatening the normal operations at eight national parks in the United States and more than four hundred animal species that habit the Gulf islands and marshlands, including some species in danger of extinction, are at risk. By November 2, 2010, over seven thousand dead animals had been collected. Most of the animals died after ingesting the oil, which poisoned their systems. Other immediate consequences of the disaster were oil-coated birds’ feathers that hindered their ability to regulate body temperature, sea turtles were covered with oil, and dead and dying deep-sea corals were found seven miles from the deepwater horizon well. Further, dangerous chemicals from the oil and dispersant have been reported to lead to health problems of the individuals staying near where the disaster took place. Scientists have suggested that in the long term, the disaster will lead to unbalanced food web, decreased fish and wildlife populations, and decline in recreation activities (National Wildlife Federation, para. 1-3 ). To avoid such a catastrophe in the future, a number of proposals should be adopted. First, regular inspection should be done for wear and tear and leaks in equipment for the production of oil. And, this inspection should be done by accredited individuals who will not shy away from doing a thorough inspection. Second, employees ought to be given adequate training and re-training to enable them cope well with everyday challenges in oil production and how to manage them. Next, a well laid down plan should be established to ensure that oil leaks are handled immediately in a professional manner in case of an accident. Lastly, the government should institute effective legislations and regulations to prevent and respond to such a catastrophe instead of relying on the same-old response of looking for scapegoats. Works Cited Corn, Lynn, and Copeland, Claudia. Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill: Coastal Wetland and Wildlife Impacts and Response . Washington: Congressional Research Service, 2011. Print . Mintz, Steven. “Horizon Deep Water Oil Spill.” Ethics Sage. 6 Dec. 2010. Web. National Research Council. Oil in the sea: inputs, fates, and effects. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 1985. Print. National Wildlife Association . “How Does the BP Oil Spill Impact Wildlife and Habitat?” Nwf.org . 2011. Web. Robertson, Campbell, and Krauss, Clifford. “ Gulf Spill Is the Largest of Its Kind, Scientists Say ”. Nytimes.com. The New York Times Company, 2010. Web. Romm, Joseph. “Gulf oil spill”. Salon.com . Salon Media Group, 2010. Web. Wells, Peter G. Exxon Valdez oil spill: fate and effects in Alaskan waters. Philadelphia, Pa.: ASTM publication, 1996. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Because of the complicacies that the enabled people can face in the unusual and thus hostile environment, the concern for the health of these people is becoming quite understood. However, despite the complicacies that disabled people have to face in the modern world, occupational therapy still can make their life brighter. It is worth mentioning that the environment in which disabled people work plays a great role in their further relationships with the people surrounding them, as well as their further health improvement. It must be admitted that people with disparities often encounter hostile treatment or even oppression from others, which creates quite an obstacle in their relationships with the world around them. Therefore, the problem concerning the oppression of the disabled must be tackled eventually; otherwise, the integration of disabled people into modern society will become practically impossible. What difficulties do the enabled people face in their occupational therapy period? Some of the most evident issues described vividly by Hammel (2003), the social ones are the key priority here; however, Hammel also points out that these are the abovementioned aspects of people’s life intertwined that create the most problems for the disabled people. According to Hammel (2003), these are the “institutional environments” (40) that have the greatest impact on disabled people during the period of their occupational therapy. There is no doubt that occupational therapy has the most positive impact on the enabled people, which finally results in the fact that they feel they belong to society. Therefore, they hope that they will eventually become members of society rises. According to Carlsson (2009) says, “To practice from an occupational justice framework is to enable clients the right to experience occupation as meaningful and enriching” (7). Indeed, such therapy means filling the life of the enabled with the idea that they are wanted in this world. However, there are several problems that the enabled have to face. One of the most widespread ones is finding the points of social contact with the rest of the world. A good example of such difficulties in social adaptation was driven by Hriensdottir et al. (2006): “Anne recalled expressing her despair and frustration by hiding from staff in the grounds of the institution in what she still refers to as ‘my secret place’” (159). In addition, choosing the patients for further occupational therapy, the therapists themselves often display certain discrimination. It must be marked that the decision-making process in such cases is based rather on personal assumptions than on the existing evidence. As Moats (2006) mentioned, in his experiment “blending of client-defined, professionally driven and negotiated styles of decision-making” (110) was a common practice. Thus, it is evident that the core problem that the enabled people have to overcome is the social hostility in relationships with the world. In addition, the procedure of the occupational therapy is often focused mainly on the desired results of the process than on the features of the patient’s personality, which is a pity as well. According to Townsend (2003), one of the key priorities is to figure out the main problems that the enabled people face during occupational therapy and help them overcome these obstacles: As I discuss client-centered practice with therapists and students there are other issues that increasingly seem to trouble them including deciding who is the client, how to be client-centered with people who cannot respond either because of the language or illness and how can client-centered practice be used […] (81) Therefore, the difficulties in communication and socialization that the enabled people encounter during their occupational therapy period can be handled. However, this requires considerable effort and much strain. Nevertheless, there is still hope that occupational therapy can help the enabled become members of society. Reference List Carlsson, C. S. (2009) The 2008 Frances Rutherford Lecture. Taking a Stand for Inclusion: Seeing Beyond Impairment! New Zealand Journal of Occupational Therapy, 56 (1), 4-11 Hammel, K. W. (2003) Changing Institutional Environments to Enable Occupation Among People with Severe Occupational Impairments. In L. Letts, P. Rigby & D. Stewart (Eds. ), Using Environments to Enable Occupational Performance. Thorofare, NJ: 35-49 Hreinsdottir, E. E., et al (2006) Is My Story So Different from Yours? Comparing Life Stories, Experiences of Institutionalization and Self-Advocacy in England and Iceland. Blackwell Publishing Ltd., 34 : 157-166 Moats, G. (2006) Discharge Decision-Making with Older People: The Influence of the Institutional Environment. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 53 : 107-116 Townsend, E. (2003) Reflection on Power and Justice in enabling Occupation. Revue Canadienne d’Ergotherapie, 2 (70): 74-87 | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Fidelity Simulation Research Coursework Research indicates that computer simulations as opposed to other media like print, video, film or lectures have a claimed primary advantage, which is, increased transfer of learning (Allessi. Trollip1985). Transfer of learning simply means the students having the ability to apply what they have learned during instructions level, to the real performance or a new situation. Simulations are assumed to boost transfer better than other media or books. However, this paper focuses on a particular area of simulation research, by the name fidelity, which has received a significant attention in relation to non computerized simulation. This is a critical variable in general when it comes to design of simulations. Fidelity on the other hand, refers to how direct a simulation imitates reality. To elaborate further on this fact, transfers of learning in plane simulators have revealed that the initial training in simulators is more efficient as opposed to that of a real plane. Many military preparation studies by means of mechanical simulators shows no difference at all, and if there is, then very little in transfer, or learning due to fidelity. Reviewed study on the motion fidelity in flight training found that it does not considerably affect learning. While some other authors have concluded that fidelity motion was of some significance for experienced pilots and not for beginners. However, studies of fidelity in military school came to a conclusion that, there is no proof of learning discrepancy due to low fidelity. Fidelity effects are largely dependent upon the learner’s instructional level. During the primary stages of learning, high fidelity illustration may confuse a learner due to the speedy representation of the compounded sequence. The same circumstance may not be found challenging by the student who has advanced to a higher level of consolidated skill. Other theories for fidelity effects are related to the definition of fidelity and transfer. The complexity of explanation result to the hypothesis like relationship of fidelity and learning is non linear and depends entirely upon instructional rank of the student. For high level fidelity the quantity of learning decreases. It appears that we are facing a predicament when we narrow it down simulation design. Increased fidelity should increase transfer theoretically; this may hinder initial learning and again in turn slows down the transfer. Consequently decreasing fidelity can enhance initial learning, but what the students have learned may not necessarily be transferred to the application scenario if proved dissimilar. My take in this is that, the solution to this problem lies in ascertaining proper level of fidelity based on current instructional level of the student. However the question I would ask is what mechanism of simulation should vary on fidelity, and, under what circumstance should it be so. As a conclusion we realize that whilst simulation take lead as one of the most promising in regards to computer based instruction, there is still a whole lot more we still need to learn concerning their design. Common sense may be in appropriate concerning the high value fidelity relating to instructions simulation. Since learning differ by fidelity, like the u-shaped curve that is overturned, it applies to the new student who is just starting, and as they advance they will indeed benefit from the rising fidelity. Reference Allessi, S. M. & Trollip, S, R (1985) Computer based instruction: Methods and Development . Englewood Cliff, NJ: Prentice Hall. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Kurt Vonnegut. Wailing Shall Be in All Streets and Slaughterhouse-Five. Reflections on World War II Essay Writer Kurt Vonnegu Kurt Vonnegut is famous American writer whose brilliant works on the themes of the World War II made him famous throughout the whole country along with the whole world for his inimitable use of irony, overtones, ethics and methods of attack. In the following paper, the two literature pieces by him will be analyzed: “Wailing Shall Be in All Streets” and “Slaughterhouse-Five”. Generally, these works appear to be rather similar in their overtones, the use of irony and overtones; however, “Wailing Shall Be in All Streets” seems to be more powerful especially taking into consideration the use of such literature methods as the use of irony, addressing different core motifs and relating ethical issues. Comparison Wailing Shall Be in All Streets and Slaughterhouse-Five The two literature pieces under consideration in the following paper can be acclaimed as a strong attack to the motives of those participating in the World War II along with the use of powerful irony. In “Wailing Shall Be in All Streets” we read: “World War II was fought for near-Holy motives. But I stand convinced that the band of justice in which we dealt, wholesale bombings of civilian populations, was blasphemous” (Vonnegut 44). Here the reader may put one’s attention to the overall tone of the phrase. This phrase is very strong and full of spirited ideas concerning the critique of the actions of those who began that disastrous war leading to so much pain, sorrow and destruction. Similar tones are explored in “Slaughterhouse-Five”. In this story the author resorts to the use of analogues implications, concealed addresses, strong word expressions, etc. In addition, the passage is related to the ideas expressed in “Slaughterhouse-Five” by means of the use of similar ironical addresses and overtones. In “Wailing Shall Be in All Streets” the author resorts to the use of such strong expressions as “near-Holy motives” and “wholesale bombings”. These expressions are very similar to what the reader may explore in “Slaughterhouse-Five”. Such expressions as these strike the mind of any reader by their irony and oxymoron nature. It is very interesting to see that Vonnegut addresses the motives of those who originated the war with a synthesized adjective “near-Holy”. Such strange combination suggests that the author does not believe into the loftiness of the purposes of those who wanted to slaughter just the same people as they, and this is not actually important in this case how such motives might be explained. Further, Vonnegut combines such contrasted things as wholesale and bombing. Such oxymoron is one of the main literature means which can be acclaimed as Kurt Vonnegut’s “visiting card”. Similar combinations can be many times seen in “Slaughterhouse-Five” as well. It is simply mind-blowing how such expressions help the author to express his irony and severe critics about the actions of fascists who originated the war. Conclusion Concluding on all the information related above, it should be stated that the two literature pieces by Kurt Vonnegut which are under exploration in this paper can be acclaimed as thought-provoking works on the themes of the World War II. In particular, these stories radiate inimitable irony which seems to criticize the motives of those participating in this war, their conduct and values. In addition, both of the works under consideration apply similar logic when attacking this bad motivation behind the people who started this war. Works Cited Vonnegut, Kurt. Armageddon in Retrospect, United States: Putnam Adult, 2008, Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Interpersonal Conflict Resolution at the Workplace Essay Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Background 3. The conflict 4. Conflict Assessment 5. Theory 6. Resolution 7. References Introduction Conflict is an unavoidable occurrence in modern society and life in general. They occur as a result of different reasons and at every level (Folberg et al, 2004) from global levels where states argue over borders and also in families among members over household chores. Since they are unavoidable, it is prudent that they are handled with care so as to mend the differences, and also not to sever delicate future ties among the parties involved. This article is a description of a conflict that I have experienced in one of my class projects. Background It was part of the course syllabus that the students conduct a project in marketing research. This was to be a collective project and all the class members worked together. Our instructor consequently divided us into groups for effectiveness and distributed constituent tasks to each of the groups. It was required that the members of each group consult each other in their tasks for learning purposes. My group was in charge of the marketing mix. The conflict June was working on the promotion but felt that Sally, her partner, did not appreciate her effort. She said that she had spent close to five hours compiling the strategy, but Sally had only taken a five minute look and already began criticizing her work and pointing out mistakes. Sally in turn, accused June of not paying attention and being overly melodramatic. The two could not work together. It would be unfair to reshuffle the group as all other were far into the work and doing so would end up disorienting the whole group. Conflict Assessment As group leader, I was obligated to manage the group to ensure that we not only completed our potion of the work but also do so in a manner that would add value to the project. June and Sally were enthusiastic team mates and their differences needed to be mended to derive their potential and effectiveness. I decided to mediate between the two. This method has been proven to be highly effective and used successfully in sensitive matters like divorce (Kelly, 2004). Moreover, tension was high between the two and negotiation would not be successful. It was imperative that I find a solution to enable them work together and achieve their goals. Theory I realized that there were two differences between Sally and June. Sally was singularly task oriented unlike June who was more of a people person. Furthermore, there was a difference in their personalities. Sally was firm while June needed appreciation and motivation. These, I believed were the biggest challenging blocks that between them. What needed to change was the way they worked together. Resolution After airing out their grievances, I informed them of the importance of them working together. I enquired on how they had decided to work on their assignment. They had decided that each does half, and then they would assess each other’s work and come to a consensus. The flaws that Sally pointed out in June’s report were valid, but June needed motivation to work. After discussion, I suggested that they abolish the division of labor. I suggested that they work together on each of the tasks and that way they would communicate more. Also, the result would be work done by both and thus no one would feel disregarded. References Folberg, J., Milne, A. L., & Salem, P. (2004). Divorce and Family Mediation: Models, Techniques, and Applications. San Francisco: Guilford Press. Kelly, J.B. (2004). Family mediation research: Is there empirical support for the field? Conflict Resolution Quarterly, 22, 3-35. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Linear Programming in University Resource Allocation Case Study Table of Contents 1. Model and Assumptions 2. Aspects 3. Limitations and Conclusion 4. Works Cited The article “The Allocation of Resources in a University” by Dr. Koch is devoted to the employment of a linear programming model to an educational organization in Illinois. In particular, it was applied to measure the resource allocation within the institution. The proposed approach aims to support academic administration in the planning and distribution of resources available to them (Koch 20). Importantly, the author stressed that the model’s components could be changed or adapted to address the requirements or peculiarities of each educational institution. Model and Assumptions According to the article, the model has been elaborated to maximize an objective function. In its turn, the function represents total net social gain executed by the educational institution in terms of its results for society. Notably, the discussed model was boosted to take into account a variety of aspects. For instance, such inputs as budget, space, and other factors have been considered. The constraints display the correlation between different factors related to the institution and the specific educational delivery approach applied by the given unit. The results of the model reflect the optimum combination of educational outputs by the institution, the effective allocation and utilization of inputs within it, and their shadow prices (Koch 21). The implications of this approach to resource allocation include assumptions that the graduates represent the output, public expenditures should be comprehended as money that would be used for the development of the future workforce, and that the contribution made by graduates would be much greater than the money spent on their education (Koch 20). Aspects In general, the problem of optimal resource allocation means the effective management of available resources of different types. The educational organization has resources of different kinds, which include tangible, human, technical, financial, and other types (Gupta 2). The model assumes that the resources of each type can be divided into classes, for instance, labor – professions and qualifications of employees, financial – sources of financing, technical – technical characteristics, and so on. As a result of this classification, a specific number of resource types can be determined. All of them should be numbered and indicated by the appropriate letter. Significantly, different categories of resources might be measured differently. During the planning period, the institution has a certain amount of resources of each type. Thus, the results, as well as the resources, can be measured differently. Therefore, the problem of optimal use of resources is reflected in the need to determine the way the educational institution can receive the results using the available resources so that the output of educational activities would bring greater contribution than the resources spent. This way, a financial issue becomes a mathematical problem to find the maximum value of the objective function under the condition that the values of variables are subject to constraints and take the form of inequalities (Gupta 3). Each set of variables is considered a plan and the plans that satisfy the constraints are valid. The plan, which has the highest value of the objective function is considered optimum (Koch 23). Therefore, the determination of the optimal plan is a solution to the problem of production planning. Limitations and Conclusion Despite the applicability of the linear progression model, certain limitations should be considered. The approach reviews past relations to analyze and reconsider plans for the future. Also, earning patterns within an educational institution might vary. Furthermore, all unit inputs are treated similarly, which is not the case for academic facilities (Koch 25). Nevertheless, the model is referred to as universal. In terms of the university considered in the current case, it was revealed that the expenses on teacher education should be decreased significantly. Works Cited Gupta, Dinesh. Strategic Allocation of Resources Using Linear Programming Model with Parametric Analysis . Anchor Academic Publishing, 2014. Koch, James. “The Allocation of Resources in a University.” Growth and Change , 1974, pp. 20-27. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Education Concept in “Parable of the Cave” by Plato Essay The parable of the cave written by Plato is an illustration of his idea concerning education. Plato believes that political problems will finally be solved when men and women of unquestionable moral standing use knowledge ad understanding acquired through education to liberate and emancipate the state from the actions of the ill educated and those without such knowledge. In Phaedo, Plato observes that most people disregard the intrinsic value of knowledge and understanding by deliberately shunning new set of ideas, disciplined study, and new ways of thinking and intellectual effort that they are not accustomed to. Most people are so perplexed by the foregoing that they turn away their eyes from understanding the truth just like they would avoid looking at the sun in the eclipse. For this reason, Plato finds the ascent to the truth to be both confusing and painful and that knowledge can only be acquired through various degrees of endurance. The parable of the cave talks about prisoners who are deeply rooted in a world of illusion. They cannot see each other or even discern the voice of the puppeteers; they all believe that it is the shadows that are doing the actual talking. A prisoner that has the chain attached on his or her neck broken and forced to turn his/her head cannot acquire proper knowledge of the real stuff unless he or she moves the body as well. The reaction of such a prisoner who has been set free would be that of someone completely caught of guard. He or she will experience pain in the eyes due to the light from the fire that has been casting shadows behind them. He or she will be greatly confused from the moment he/she discovers that the shadows do not talk and all that was being done by the puppeteers which they as prisoners had taken seriously as life issues was nothing short of child entertainment. He or she gets accustomed to the light from the fire and his vision becomes clearer. Once the freed prisoner has analyzed the constituents of the cave, he or she is again forced to walk outside the cave from where it becomes impossible to see clearly again due to discovery of new kind of light (knowledge/ ideas) which he/she was not used to. The prisoner has no choice but to look on reflections from the water until his/her eyes becomes accustomed to the light again. When the night falls, he/she discovers other lights on the sky and as time goes by, he/she becomes accustomed to the light from the sun. The freed prisoner at this stage is convinced that reality is infinite as opposed to the narrow views held by the prisoners in the cave, who have full knowledge of reality based on a lifetime of studying shadows. The movement of the prisoner from initial position of imprisonment to exploring the interior of the cave and then to studying reflections from water to stars and sky during the night followed by discovery of the sun and of course the realization that there are other realities out there is what is called by Plato the ascent to the truth. Education helps the philosopher to move from different levels of ignorance to the ultimate level of incorruptible morals coupled with knowledge and wisdom. These virtues are deemed as the absolute good. Education enables men to move away from the cave of ignorance and inhumane notions as far as possible. The truly educated strive to control their desires, thus without proper morals, an educated person can be worse than a prisoner who never moved from the cave. In the contemporary society, most intellectuals resemble the wicked man who is wise as the philosopher but has his/her vision focused on wrong values that eventually undermine the ultimate good. A state can enjoy peaceful prosperity by educating those whose vision is focused on the good. The enlightened person must not wonder at the marvel of the good forever but should instead get back to the cave and free those who are in bondage (Julia, 1991, 76). Plato depicts four ways of life and thinking through this work namely imagination, thought, understanding and philosophy stage. The final stage helps a person to overcome prejudice and fully grasp the meaning of life (good). The life of every person begins deep inside the cave, the person’s legs and head are bound. Through education, a person is forced to move as far out of the cave as possible and depending on a person’s resilience, a career path is predetermined. There are those who will not move at all, others will move about the cave and they become warriors and so on and those who move completely out of the cave become philosophers who should be accorded the opportunity to rule if stability in any country is to be realized, however, philosophers aspiring to run government activities should not run any other business while in office and this should be out of free will and not by compulsion (Julia, 1991, 46). The parable of the cave is analogous to today’s media world and education system that is not value based. Works Cited Julia, Annas. An Introduction to Plato’s Republic , New York: Rutledge, 1991. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Discussion of “Utopia” by Thomas More Essay Thomas More describes the society of the fictional country Utopia as a state with laws, conventions, and traditions that drastically differ from the ones the author himself and the readers are familiar with. The Utopian society has several customs that make the country ideal in the narrator’s eyes. One of such customs is the absence of the notion of private property (Greenblatt 520). The property is communal, and no one has ownership over the buildings where they reside or anything in those buildings. All houses are constructed in the same style, with no citizens living in a bigger or more comfortable house than their neighbors (Greenblatt 549). Overall, this lack of private property in Utopia led to the people of the country having no desire to compete with each other through the accumulation of wealth as all of their belonging are the same. Another custom of the country is the same responsibility of all citizens. The narrator states that all Utopia residents, with no exceptions, work in agriculture to provide food for the country (Greenblatt 550). Utopians are also required to choose a second trade to their liking but are continuously monitored to ensure that they contribute to society (Greenblatt 550). The country also supervises the number of citizens in each of the cities to prevent overpopulation. Thus, every town in Utopia can have no more than six thousand households with up to 16 adults in each (Greenblatt 554). This measure prevents one city from spending more resources than another and allows for enough supplies for everyone. Finally, Utopia does not assign any value to gold or silver, metals that other states find desirable (Greenblatt 557). These metals are used to make chamber pots, chains for slaves, and special marks for criminals to show that they are not valuable (Greenblatt 557). Thus, no citizens want to keep gold, silver, or gems as owning them is associated with an unsightly activity preventing wealth accumulation. Utopia seems to be a country where everyone is equal and strives to be so. However, the country’s description is very idealistic and leads one to question whether its policies are not what they seem. The first questionable policy of the country is the custom of communal work and choosing trades. Although every citizen’s ability to choose the work to their liking is admirable, their choice is secondary to farming and agriculture, the trade that everyone is assigned. People have natural differences in abilities, preferences, and interests, and assigning everyone the same job may not lead to the desired outcomes. Thus, society would benefit more from agriculture being a trade of choice. Another problematic tradition is the abolishment of private property. It can be argued that owning a house gives people a sense of safety and belonging. Possessing a residence presents individuals with a certain goal of maintaining it and contributing to it being comfortable for their families. However, in Utopia, citizens do not own their homes and can be randomly relocated to another residence if the government deems it necessary (Greenblatt 554). Thus, their natural loyalty towards their families and the household is artificially forced towards society as a whole as they have nothing personal to protect. The same can be argued about the custom of not holding gold and other metals in high regard. The government manufactures the desire not to own anything of high value by using gold for questionable purposes. The Utopia citizens may want to own something made of gold for their enjoyment but are too afraid of their neighbors’ reaction as it is associated with slavery and criminal activity. Overall, the Utopian government forces its residents to comply with the customs deemed to be for the good of the society, with individual freedoms being disregarded. Work Cited Greenblatt, Stephen, editor. The Norton Anthology of English Literature Volume B . 8th ed., W.W. Norton & Company, 2012. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Germany Walmart vs Colombia Walmart Essay (Critical Writing) Table of Contents 1. Customer Retention Approach 2. Supply Chain 3. Human Resource Management 4. Reference When introducing its services into the setting of a different country, an organization needs to be quite elaborate and meticulous with its business strategy. Based on the specifics of the local environment and especially eh needs of customers, the business strategy may need to be tweaked. The German Walmart’s approach toward managing its business appears to have been stakeholder-oriented initially, which has increased the company’s competitive advantage and the chances to attract customers (Head & Jing, 2014). In turn, the Colombian Walmart has been utilizing a target-centric approach, which, combined with Walmart’s trademark low prices has produced quite a stunning effect, attracting multiple customers (Head & Jing, 2014). However, the lack of effective infrastructure has reduced the opportunities to explore the Colombian market. Therefore, the German experiment in developing a business strategy can be considered rather unsuccessful compared to the Colombian one. Customer Retention Approach Due to the unsuccessful business model initially applied to the environment of the German market, the German Walmart has been struggling to establish the strategy for retaining customers ad gaining their loyalty. The specified challenge has been aggravated by the fact that Walmart’s approach toward managing its staff members has been known as rather inefficient (Head & Jing, 2014). However, due to the focus on quality, the German subdivision of Walmart has managed to find its target audience and appeal to it in the way that has led to a slight rise in customer retention and engagement levels (Head & Jing, 2014). In its turn, the Colombian Walmart has selected a slightly different strategy, following strictly the established Walmart formula and using its pricing framework as the main tool for keeping customers engaged (Head & Jing, 2014). However, the specified approach seems to have been failing due to the recent complaints concerning product quality (Head & Jing, 2014). Therefore, Colombia Walmart will have to focus on quality control as an essential tool in retaining buyers. Supply Chain In turn, the approaches toward building the supply chain within the target environments are quite close in both German and Columbian Walmart. The German Walmart’s supply chain can be characterized by high levels of efficacy and timely management of key processes. In turn, the Colombian Walmart seems to suffer from a rather disjointed infrastructure of its supply chain and poor communication with key stakeholders, primarily, with suppliers (Head & Jing, 2014). Therefore, further adjustments in the exploration of the local infrastructure and the search for effective tools for controlling the transfer of information and resources across the supply chain will be needed for the Colombian Walmart. Human Resource Management The issue of human resource management (HRM) has been a major problem across all Walmart’s offices, the Colombian and German ones not being an exception to this phenomenon. Due to the need to cut costs significantly and provide goods to its target audience at the lowest prices possible, Walmart has been deflating on the update of its HRM framework, hence multiple issues with the management of its staff (Head & Jing, 2014). In addition, the way in which staff members are treated at Walmart both in Germany and in Colombia is quite low (Head & Jing, 2014). Namely, employees’ personal needs are rarely taken into account, whereas the extent of the workload with which they have to deal daily increases regularly (Head & Jing, 2014). The described issue can be observed both at the Colombian Walmart and at the German one, although the extent of the specified problem varies significantly in the specified states. However, despite the changes in the degree of the concern are different, the problem of poor HRM remains a significant hindrance to successful performance both at German and at Colombian Walmart. Reference Head, K., Jing, R., & Swenson, D. L. (2014). From Beijing to Bentonville: Do multinational retailers link markets? Journal of Development Economics, 110 , pp. 79-92. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Three Biblical Apologetics Analysis Report C.S. Lewis Mere Christianity Mere Christianity is C.S. Lewis’ classic work on Christian apologetics that originally appeared as three separate pamphlets called The case for Christianity, Christian Behaviour, and Beyond Personality..Lewis was an Anglican and as the book’s title suggests he attempts to create a Christian common ground. His aim is to explain what it is that defines Christianity in the past and avoids controversies that would reduce his work to pariah status in other Christian sects. In the work he restates fundamental Christian teaching for the sake of those intellectuals who realize that the formal jargon of Christian theology has lost its meaning. Lewis’ restatements are largely in the area of Moral law. Christians, he says, have “Rules about Right and Wrong” which they believe are intrinsic to all human beings. They are real laws as real as the laws of physics and not mere human inventions contrived by sophists. However, unlike the laws of physics like, gravity, Moral Law can be ignored because of free will. Humans are intuitively aware of moral law and they know of it within themselves as opposed to other laws which are learned via observation. His chief example for this was the way people who did not believe in religion still saw what Hitler’s actions in World War II was wrong. Aside from introducing Moral law, Lewis also introduces the idea that God is the source of the universe as opposed to Satan who rebels and is the source of all evil. Satan rebellion was the result of his pride yet all his actions and the sins he inspires are no more than perversions of what is good. Lee Strobel A Case for Christ Lee Strobel’s book a Case for Christ is another example of an Apologetics writing. Perhaps the main criticism of his work is the fact that despite his considerable experience as a journalist he did not interview and critics of the Church. As a result despite being well researched and its arguments being fairly comprehensive the book comes off as being one sided. The First part of the book is about the historic reliability of the New Testament. Based on Strobel’s arguments the New testament’s accuracy comes from five main sources; eyewitness accounts, documentary evidence, corroborating evidence, scientific evidence and rebuttal evidence. Among his more controversial claims one that stands out is his claim that the Gospels were in fact written by Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. This claim is best summarized as follows “How can we be sure that the material about Jesus’ life and teachings was well preserved for thirty years before it was finally written down in the gospels?” (Stobel 53). He believes that the oral culture prevalent in those days made maintaining the strict content of the verse highly probably in the same way that the Illiad was preserved in verse form before being written down. Ultimately, the book is creative and well written, a worthy contribution to the list of Christian apologetics. It is an excellent exposition based on other more learned scholars in the topic. However, it still comes off as one-sided because it lack sources from the opposite side of the spectrum John Thornbury System of Bible Doctrine Thornbury’s book System of Bible Doctribe is a comprehensive review of Church Doctrine. It spans the biblical account of Creation, the Gospels and Christian life in the prophetic future. The book is written in a clear and concise manner with out appearing as condescendingly simple. The author shows what the Bible teaches about God and frequently refers to the Bible. The book is should be used by new Christians for study and reflection because it is simple enough to be studied by those who are not yet completely initiated into the faith. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Information travels fast but gets lost even faster, so while the first-minute reactions appear to be tremendous and game-changing, nothing happens after. This reality creates a colossal disproportion, and cases that require most of the attention possible, like suicidal rates among youth, tend to be ignored, as they are deeply disturbing and challenging to approach. Still, while it is a sensitive issue, suicides cannot be put aside, now is the time when their rates increase, and newer generations of adolescents are more exposed to this risk than ever. The current situation worldwide is concerning, as the number of factors influencing adolescents’ lives increases exponentially. The documentary under analysis was filmed more than ten years ago, and even back then, the professionals signaled their awareness about the levels of anxiety, stress, depression, fears among teenagers. Unfortunately, the situation has not gotten better since then. Most of the young people reported that considering committing suicide was not because they wanted to die, but because they could not bear the pain and emotional hurdles they faced daily (Murphy, 2009). Another reason was that they could not think of any other ways to release the accumulated anger and show the world how great was their suffering (Murphy, 2009). It is also not the topic any authorized agencies are eager to discuss, knowing they have failed to be there for those kids or pay enough attention to the signs (Murphy, 2009). As mental health issues are still not a part of the worldwide agenda and are considered less important than academic performance, the fight for the paradigm shift becomes harder. Among the factors associated with suicide are stress, peer pressure, bullying, family issues, relationship troubles, and more. Adolescence is the time when social connections become most important, and perception by others greatly affects one’s self-esteem. The signs are not always easily trackable; for example, pediatricians pick up on around a fifth of adolescents at risk, while in 90% of the cases, parents have no idea something is going wrong with their child (Murphy, 2009). Although sometimes teenagers are leading a double life, hiding the darker side of it and generally doing well, it is more often than they send various signals about their depression or anxiety, but are left unnoted. There are ways to deal with emotional issues at any age, but it is better to tackle the problem before it arises. Around 50% of all serious psychiatric diseases start by the age of 14, so working with kids early is key (Murphy, 2009). Mental health problems are often rooted in troubled relationships between children and their parents; the lack of open communication and dialogue is central to this subject (Murphy, 2009). Therefore, parents are expected to put more effort to understand their kids better, establish relationships based on trust, and prevent them from having to deal with their problems alone in the future. Another aspect that forms the background of unhealthy adolescent behaviors is the Internet. Although social networks, to some extent, existed when the film aired, there is no doubt that nowadays the scope of the problem expanded dramatically, driving young people further from the real world. The central issue here is that exposure to a toxic digital environment representing the fake image of other people’s lives only increases anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. All in all, the problem of suicides among adolescents remains taken out of the discussion in many countries, although the rates of their spread show the opposite dynamic. It is a question that includes multiple dimensions and requires work on the personal, familial, and social levels. Still, as the suicide rates worsen globally, more efforts are necessary to provide adolescents at risk with support and guidance on how to deal with negativity. Reference Murphy, M. (Producer). (2009). A cry for help [Video file]. Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Such a leader is not driven by selfish motives or a desire for power, but by a sincere desire to help others satisfy their needs, develop, and become better (Enyia, 2018). Usually, a servant leader has a high level of maturity and consciousness, adherence to moral principles, and many other positive ethical qualities. This allows the leader to build leadership based on trust and respect. Typically, this type of leadership has a positive effect on the functioning of the organization. Usually, employees’ attitude towards such leaders is positive because they know that they can always count on help and support. For this reason, the behavior of team members becomes more open and confident. In addition, following the example of a leader, subordinates readily help each other. Thus, servant leadership is an excellent way to build a cohesive and effective team. Reference Enyia, S. O. (2018). Servant leadership. Page Publishing Inc. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Telemedicine as Area of Healthcare System Essay Healthcare is a field that is constantly improving and changing due to new demands, technology, and opportunities to address the general population’s health effectively. During the last decade, technology has become a revolutionary tool that influenced multiple fields, and medicine is one of them. One of the implementations that happened due to new technological advancements in telemedicine. Telemedicine refers to health services that are distributed through electronic technologies. Some include diagnostics, monitoring patients, medical advice, and other health-related procedures. However, telemedicine is not necessarily the practice where communication occurs between a physician and a patient. Medical professionals use it to share data and information, consult each other, and improve their knowledge by learning new information remotely. Telemedicine became even more significant during the COVID-19 outbreak. According to researchers, this medical field has mitigated some of the effects of the pandemic by minimizing virus transmission (Calton et al., 2020). Patients could contact their doctors without going to the hospital, which positively affected the rate of infected individuals. Moreover, physicians could assist many people without being at risk for contamination. Since multiple medical professionals could not work due to testing positive, telemedicine was an excellent tool to protect physicians. As technology becomes more significant in healthcare, telemedicine will continue improving. Researchers point out that more than 15% of physicians encounter this concept in their practices (Dorsey & Topol, 2020). The number will rise even higher since experts realize not all health issues require in-person visits to the doctor. Telemedicine is not only safe but also a comfortable alternative that both patients and doctors prefer in many cases. References Calton, B., Abedini, N., & Fratkin, M. (2020). Telemedicine in the time of coronavirus . Journal of Pain and Symptom Management , 60 (1). Dorsey, E. R., & Topol, E. J. (2020). Telemedicine 2020 and the next decade. The Lancet , 395 (10227), 859. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Wheeler’s Theory and Examples of Pilgrimage Essay Pilgrimage refers to purposeful travel often done to demonstrate devotion to sites or places that adherents consider holy. The journey can be short or lengthy – as near as the neighborhood church or as far as another hemisphere. It can take a day, weeks, months, or even years. Bonnie Wheeler argues that pilgrimage is a manifestation that “life is the struggle of restless against rest; this piercing into life exiles us from our quiet roots” (Wheeler 36). The argument Wheeler makes is that the purposeful travel to sacred sites affirms human agency, and that people often use pilgrimage as a way to arouse and contain desires that are otherwise fulfilled only in the devotee’s paradise and satisfied in their thoughts and imagination. Meaning is volitional and a gift that individuals with conflicting yearnings, such as pilgrims, give themselves and one another. Wheeler seeks to balance Victor W. Turner’s pilgrimage thesis with his confluence model of pilgrimage. The former views pilgrimage as a social undertaking and emphasizes the liminal nature of pilgrimaging communities. According to Turner’s understanding, the social experience of pilgrimage consists of communitas. Put differently, while hierarchical political structures differentiate people by positions and social roles, communitas often comprise communities of equals who recognize each other wholly. According to this view, pilgrimages are occasions for experiencing communitas. Therefore, the Turner thesis views pilgrimages as journeys to a sacred communitas source that can be a source of renewal and healing. Contrarily, Wheeler’s confluence theory views pilgrimage as communal as well as fragmented and private or personal. This confluence model makes it possible to see how opposing ideologies are felt and heard, and how people experience differences in the pursuit of fulfilling personal desires. These desires fill all spatial dimensions as pilgrims move confluently and ritualize what wheeler describes as “common space” (Wheeler 29). He uses the example of the Mecca pilgrimage – which is open to all Islam denominations and where prayer is situated in space – to illustrate how such journeys sometimes happen at the confluence of leisure (tourism) and devotion. Wheeler’s confluence model offers a new understanding of the concept of pilgrimage by characterizing groups with divergent beliefs and needs traveling and sojourning to sacred sites. It also accounts for individual people whose private and frequently competing needs, identities, and desires align and go beyond the fringes of the corporeal into the collective. This way, confluence delineates the common space. At the core of Wheeler’s confluence theory of pilgrimage is the argument for the distinction between the communal or collective and the private or personal. In other words, the theory makes a case for pilgrimage as a both a sacred and secular undertaking, as well as the division between the popular and the institutional. Wheeler aptly captures this view in his statement, “pilgrimage is not a monolithic institution; it shifts meaning as often as it shifts ritual centers” (27). Wheeler’s theory can be applied to two pilgrimage examples studied this semester, which are the Great German Pilgrimage of 1064–1065 and the Hajj. The first was a mammoth pilgrimage to Jerusalem that preceded the First Crusade. It was led by several notable personalities, including Bishops Gunther of Bamberg, Otto of Ratisbon, and William of Utrecht, as well as Archbishop Seigfried of Mainz; its function went beyond the officially sanctioned. The German pilgrimage occurred at the confluence of the individual faith of the believers and the need to enhance the Papacy’s wealth, privilege, and influence. It represented an inaugural trip for most believers that would be defined by the ritual accomplished at the conclusion of the trip. The pilgrimages of Christians from early Church rested principally on biblical and Hebrew traditions. The journey to Jerusalem represented a historical and cultural basis of the Great German Pilgrimage and other Christian pilgrimages. Wheeler notes, “each Christian, and the church itself, were inevitably moving on sacred pilgrimage to the heavenly city even while living side-by-side with the ‘Other,’ the non-believer” (30). However, through the Great German Pilgrimage, the pope and other crusaders also hoped to inflame Christian passion and provoke the First Crusade. There was already a conflict between Muslims and Christians nearly three decades before the pilgrimage to Jerusalem. A war was in the offing in the Holy Land, brought about by adversaries of Christ and something had to be done. It is evident that the Great German Pilgrimage occurred at the confluence of individual need for spiritual nourishment and renewal and enhance the Papacy’s influence and authority by provoking the First Crusade. The confluence model is also essential in explaining the Hajj, an annual pilgrimage by Muslims to Mecca. The Hajj can be conceptualized as a pilgrimage that goes past the sacred and sometimes transforms into religious tourism. Viewed from the above perspective, the confluence model helps account for the numerous religious voyages. For avoidance of doubt, this confluence is between pilgrimage and tourism, wherein both the pilgrim-tourist and the pilgrim move towards the sacred site or location. From the discussion above, it is clear how Wheeler’s confluence model contributes to the understanding of the two pilgrimages mentioned above. The confluence theory offers vital insights into pilgrimages as being both communal and also individual. These journeys often occur at the confluence of religious devotion and tourism or devotion and other interests of the pilgrims (the collective and the private or personal). For Hajj, this can include religious tourism and a sacred sojourn simultaneously. Doctrinal changes that have occurred over the decades have allowed diverse and extremely elaborate Islamic pilgrimages to develop. The number of believers to Mecca now exceed those who observe the official and Quran obligated Hajj pilgrimages. Works Cited Wheeler, Bonnie. “Models of Pilgrimage: From Communitas to Confluence.” Journal of Ritual Studies , vol. 13, 1999, pp. 26-41. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Online Classes vs. Traditional Classes Essay Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Differences between online classes and traditional classes 3. Conclusion 4. Works Cited Introduction Modern technology has infiltrated the education sector and as a result, many college students now prefer taking online classes, as opposed to attending the traditional regular classes. This is because online classes are convenient for such students, and more so for those who have to both work and attend classes. As such, online learning gives them the flexibility that they needed. In addition, online learning also gives an opportunity to students and professionals who would not have otherwise gone back to school to get the necessary qualifications. However, students who have enrolled for online learning do not benefit from the one-on-one interaction with their peers and teachers. The essay shall endeavor to examine the differences between online classes and the traditional classes, with a preference for the later. Differences between online classes and traditional classes Online classes mainly take place through the internet. As such, online classes lack the regular student teacher interaction that is common with traditional learning. On the other hand, learning in traditional classes involves direct interaction between the student and the instructors (Donovan, Mader and Shinsky 286). This is beneficial to both the leaner and the instructors because both can be bale to establish a bond. In addition, student attending the traditional classroom often have to adhere to strict guidelines that have been established by the learning institution. As such, students have to adhere to the established time schedules. On the other hand, students attending online classes can learn at their own time and pace. One advantage of the traditional classes over online classes is that students who are not disciplined enough may not be able to sail through successfully because there is nobody to push them around. With traditional classes however, there are rules to put them in check. As such, students attending traditional classes are more likely to be committed to their education (Donovan et al 286). Another advantage of the traditional classes is all the doubts that students might be having regarding a given course content can be cleared by the instructor on the spot, unlike online learning whereby such explanations might not be as coherent as the student would have wished. With the traditional classes, students are rarely provided with the course materials by their instructors, and they are therefore expected to take their own notes. This is important because they are likely to preserve such note and use them later on in their studies. In contrast, online students are provided with course materials in the form of video or audio texts (Sorenson and Johnson 116). They can also download such course materials online. Such learning materials can be deleted or lost easily compared with handwritten class notes, and this is a risk. Although the basic requirements for a student attending online classes are comparatively les in comparison to students attending traditional classes, nonetheless, it is important to note that online students are also expected to be internet savvy because all learning takes place online. This would be a disadvantage for the regular student; only that internet savvy is not a requirement. Students undertaking online learning are likely to be withdrawn because they hardly interact one-on-one with their fellow online students or even their instructors. The only form of interaction is online. As such, it becomes hard for them to develop a special bond with other students and instructors. With traditional learning however, students have the freedom to interact freely and this helps to strengthen their existing bond. Conclusion Online learning is convenient and has less basic requirements compared with traditional learning. It also allows learners who would have ordinarily not gone back to school to access an education. However, online students do not benefit from a close interaction with their peers and instructors as do their regular counterparts. Also, regular students can engage their instructors more easily and relatively faster in case they want to have certain sections of the course explained, unlike online students. Works Cited Donovan, Judy, Mader, Cynthia and Shinsky, John. Constructive student feedback: Online vs. traditional course evaluations. Journal of Interactive Online Learning , 5.3(2006): 284-292 Sorenson, Lynn, and Johnson, Trav. Online Student Ratings of Instructions . San Francisco: Jossey Bass, 2003. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
African Circumcision Festival and Western Attitude Case Study Why to attend a circumcision festival in the West African village you are working in as a Peace Corps volunteer? If I faced such a situation I would attend the event for several reasons. First of all, I am in the village with the purpose to improve the health situation. I should know what the villagers do and how they treat their lives. All the aspects concerning health care should be done in my presence. Therefore, it is my direct responsibility to be informed about all the changes which occur in the village and about all the traditions connected with health. People in West African villages have specific traditions and customs which may seem barbaric for civilized people. I am sure that if I faced such a request I would be happy to visit such an event as this would help me become closer to people, to understand their visions and considerations. I am sure that I would not be shocked as having lived in the place for 1 year I managed to get used to the environment and to draw specific conclusions about people. How would you respond to the village elders? Village elders are highly respected people in West African villages therefore, I am sure that my response would be affirmative with all the respect. Moreover, I would consider it an honor to sit while the ceremony near such respected people. I am sure that I would respond in such a way that to underline my respect for elders. I would make sure that I want to visit this event for the elders to be sure that I am interested in the supportive environment at the workplace and the place, I am living. I would also notify the elders that I was not impressed with the tradition and in my opinion, it is harmful to perform such things in those conditions, however, I would visit the place with pleasure to show my respect and to help the villagers to change their vision of hygiene. Would you attend? Why or why not? As I have already mentioned, I would attend the event being in West African villages with the purpose to improve healthcare, I must visit all the events which are connected with the health issues. Circumcision is a surgical operation that is going to be completed by professionals. Being aware of the absence of the medical education of the members of the village, I am sure that people who are going to participate in the traditional circumcision do not have medical education either. Therefore, I will visit this place with the purpose to see what is going on there and to explain the basis of the medical knowledge if I see that something goes wrong. Moreover, I will be able to understand the life priorities of these people which will help me in completing my work. I am to inform people about the basis of their hygiene and about the most important data they are to know about healthcare. What are your “cultural limits”? How do you maintain your cultural limits while still respecting the cultural values of the people around you? We live in the modern world and I understand that different people may have various customs and traditions. I cannot say that living in a strange country I am going to apply to the traditional behavior of those people, however, I am not going to judge them. Different people live according to their beliefs. Still, healthy behavior and other issues connected with health and life bother me. I am sure that the traditions which deal with human health and which may harm them should be eliminated. I am not going to say about it in a rude form, however being a medical worker, I will do all possible to assure people that they are to lead a life free from dangerous actions. Having lived in African villagers, I got to understand that these people have a lot of barbaric traditions. I knew that I was going to face such issues, therefore, I was not shocked and prepared myself for their activities. Even though I do not like them and I would do all I can to protect their health, I will not try to restrict them from the issues which do not affect their health condition even though I consider those actions inappropriate. What cultural values would influence your decision to attend or not attend? My cultural values are not connected with gender, ethnicity, cultures, and other factors which usually prevent people from performing particular issues. I am sure that none of the cultural values would influence my decisions as I am going to be guided only by the professional issues. Medical factor in the expecting traditional act is the only important factor which is going to affect my decision, as having chosen to live in the West African villages I knew that I would have some cultural difficulties if I have any and the very decision to go to Africa was supported with the fact that having personal cultural visions I am not prejudiced about them. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Discharge education contains the instructions patients require to be able to provide their own care outside of the hospital. Appropriate discharge instructions help to cut readmissions of the patients. The guidance given through discharge education secures the patients’ better understanding of their health condition and adjustments they need to make to improve their quality of life. * Efficient discharge education minimizes the risk of mistakes a patient may make during self-care and secures faster and easier recovery. Improperly educated patients are under a risk of misinterpreting their doctor’s instructions, taking the medication wrongly or making errors during self-care procedures. Good discharge education informs the patients about the medication and procedures they were prescribed to treat their condition. As a result, properly informed patients are better at following the doctor’s instructions and have better chances for quick recovery. * Discharge education may include appropriate training of a patient concerning the measures they need to take to secure their wellbeing. If a discharged patient is prescribed to monitor their blood glucose or their blood pressure, but they do not know how to use a tonometer or glucometer, they are likely to have problems following the doctor’s instructions. This is why discharge education is to provide clear instructions and demonstrations as to the application of the necessary equipment. Discharge education can be individualized to each particular patients and adjusted for their needs. Due to the diversity of patients’ backgrounds, the education should be adjusted to a number of different languages to ensure proper comprehension of the information. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
(2000, p. 795). It emphasizes the fact that air contamination has a negative influence on the health of the representatives of the general public. In particular, professionals believe that it contributes to mortality and morbidity greatly. The authors assess the influence of the total outdoor pollution and its part that is connected with high traffic. They pay attention to Austria, France, and Switzerland, which are familiar with attributable cases of morbidity and mortality. Objectives The professionals are willing to reveal the way air pollution affects the public health. The research study is conducted to identify the number of mortality cases that are caused by air pollution. In addition to that, the authors are willing to define how many cases of mortality are caused by motorized traffic. It is also critical to mention that they discuss adult and children population separately as well differentiate cases of (chronic) bronchitis, asthma attacks, and restricted activities. With the help of this information, the authors are willing to improve healthcare situation and trigger the development of new environmental health policy options. Methods In order to find out what is the exact impact of air pollution on the population “epidemiology-based exposure-response functions for a 10 µg/m3 increase in particulate matter (PM10)” was used (Künzli et al., 2000, p. 795). The professionals focused on the connection between air contamination and mortality for adults who are about 30 years old. All populations were assessed regarding hospital admissions because of related issues. The attention was paid to respiratory and cardiovascular problems, in particular, as well as asthma attacks. The sample for chronic bronchitis included the male and female population of 25 years. The cases of bronchitis episodes were investigated on the basis of children population under 15 years. Finally, on the basis of the individuals who are 20 years old, restricted activity days were discussed. The authors modeled data for each square kilometer. They utilized PM10 emission inventories to focus on the specific data and separate those cases that were connected with the contamination caused by traffic. For the meta-analysis, the data starting with 1996 was used. It was gathered on the related websites mainly, which ensured its authoritativeness. Results The research study showed that more than 5% of mortality cases per year are caused by air contamination, which equals to more than 40,000 situations. In 50% of all these cases, the connection with the motorized traffic was observed. Chronic bronchitis and its episodes turned out to be observed more seldom than other health issues (about 25,000 and 290,000 cases). The authors also emphasized that 500,000 asthma attacks took place during the same period of time. Finally, in almost 17 million cases, days of restricted activities were held. The professionals concluded that in the majority of cases PM emissions were caused by traffic, which proved their initial point of view. They also indicated that people who live in the most populated areas are at the highest risk because air is extremely contaminated there. Materials of Interest This very study reveals specific interest to various pollutants that contaminate the air. They are treated as indicators of exposure. Still, the attention is mainly paid to PM fractions. This is a mixture of particles that get into the air and influence people’s health adversely. Limits and Values Künzli et al. (2000) state that PM should not exceed 7.5 mg/m3; because relative risk is already expected when it equals 10 mg/m3. Reported Levels The issue of air contamination with PM turns out to be critical, as according to the research study, 10 g/m3 increase in PM10 was observed. An annual mean PM10 is 10–15 g/m3, which is almost 30%. In some areas, the results are even more critical as it excesses 55% and show the PM10 concentration of more than 40 mg/m3. Such results prove that the reported levels of PM are much higher than it is allowed. As a result, the possibility of facing even more crucial health issues increases. Exposure Pathway The researchers come up with the conclusion that individuals who live in the areas with high traffic are exposed to PM more than others. The traffic-related air proportion cases equal “43% in Austria, 56% in France, and 53% in Switzerland” (Künzli et al., 2000, p. 796). Risk Potential On the basis of the information obtained with the help of this article, it is possible to state that risk of having health issues because of air contamination with PM is rather high in those territories where traffic is excessive. Unfortunately, today the concentration of PM that equals at least 10 mg/m3 can rarely be observed, especially in big cities. However, I tend to believe that those individuals who are healthy and tend to try to keep fit are not likely to be exposed to risk because they have good protection mechanisms. Still, I believe that if the professionals pay appropriate attention to this article and develop alterations on its basis, the situation can be improved greatly so that fewer people would face adverse outcomes. Reference Künzli, N., Kaiser, R., Medina, S., Studnicka, M., Chanel, O., Filliger, P.,… Sommer, H. (2000). “Public-health impact of outdoor and traffic-related air pollution: A European assessment”. The Lancet, 356 (1), 795-801. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Common Leadership Styles in Nursing Essay There are multiple leadership styles in nursing; however, it is possible to define several commonly applied styles – transformational leadership, autocratic leadership, laissez-faire leadership, and servant leadership. Transformational leadership is a specific type of relation-oriented nursing leadership that focuses on employees’ motivation to perform beyond expectations (Poels et al., 2020). It is highly efficient as associated with higher job satisfaction, increased staff-wellbeing, decreased burn-out rates, and workers’ retention. Divided into groups, employees may take responsibility and solve problems more efficiently in a time-sensitive manner. However, transformational leadership is inefficient in new organizations without a well-developed structure. Autocratic leadership is characterized by a leader’s decision-making, excessive control, and intolerance for mistakes. Although this type of leadership does not promote communication between a leader and followers, transparency, collaboration, and a comfortable working atmosphere, it is efficient when quick and competent decision-making is necessary (Durmuş & Kırca, 2019). In contrast with the autocratic type, laissez-faire leadership is frequently applied by inexperienced leaders who provide a team with autonomy and decision-making without any feedback concerning outcomes. In general, the advantages and disadvantages of this style depend on team members’ competencies and experience. Thus, a highly experienced team prefers to operate without control, while a team that needs supervision can make many mistakes working autonomously. Finally, servant leadership presupposes a leader’s care concerning team members’ needs. It is efficient in diverse multidisciplinary teams; however, a poor-performing team may suffer from long-lasting preparations, especially when quick actions are required. In addition, there is a difference between leading, managing, and following, predominantly in these concepts’ functions. Thus, leading refers to motivation, inspiring others, taking responsibilities, and serving as a role model. In turn, managing implies administration and control over working processes for goal achievement. Following means the commitment to specific instructions and work under control. In general, all three concepts are not role-bound – nurses may lead, manage, and follow simultaneously regardless of their roles. References Durmuş, S., & Kırca, K. (2019). Leadership styles in nursing . IntechOpen Book Series. Poels, J., Verschueren, M., Milisen, K., & Vlaeyen, E. (2020). Leadership styles and leadership outcomes in nursing homes: a cross-sectional analysis. BMC Health Services Research, 20 (1009), 1-10. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Differences Between Economics and Business Essay One is watching the news or reading the latest article from Forbes, and you see the terms “business” and “economics” used interchangeably; one may wonder about the differences. Business and economics are similar in that they are supplements to each other, both dealing with the process of creating products and services and selling them to generate output. These are fields of study that are closely related and include a range of shared subtopics, such as enterprises, marketing, finance, manufacturing, and banking. Both are social sciences that focus on financial measurement and analysis, focusing on variables that impact the market and also focus on short- and long-term projections, as well as the inner workings of various industries. Finally, both business and economics tend to focus on various problems facing the nation, its citizens, government, and private enterprises (Vaidya). However, there are some differences between economics and business, which are based on their conceptual purpose. Economics is a study focusing on understanding human behavior and, in turn, how that reflects on the broader economic elements of whole nations. Meanwhile, business is aimed at studying the process of the exchange of goods and money specifically, and all the related elements starting from production to the final sale, and how a specific enterprise fulfills this process. It can be argued that business is a subset of economics, as the human behavior in that exchange of goods is a point of focus (Casson). A major difference is in concepts, economics deals with theories and broad elements of the economy, such as supply and demand, interest rate, and international trade. While these undoubtedly impact business, both individual entities and as a field of study, business focuses on the process of wealth creation within the context of the economy and typically applies practical theories. Economics focuses on and attempts to maximize the welfare of society, while business is centered on its shareholders. Both face different issues, with economics encompassing poverty, unemployment, taxation, and federal expenditure, while business focuses on product positioning and differentiation, marketing, growth or lack thereof of profitability, and individual or industry performance (Gitman et al.). While business and economics share many commonalities, their conceptual and practical differences make them distinct sciences. Works Cited Casson, Mark. The Theory of International Business . Palgrave Macmillan, 2016. Gitman, Lawrence J., et al. Introduction to Business . OpenStax. 2018. Web. Vaidya, Dheeraj. “Difference Between Economics and Business.” WallStreetMojo , Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The explosion occurred on the 26th of April, 1986 at 1:23:58 am. According to the article, on this Saturday, the Ukraine located nuclear power station that had four reactors exploded during reactor number 4’s testing (Wald, 2011). Consequently, the temperature rose beyond 2,000 degrees Celsius and as a result melting the fuel rods (Wald, 2011). The quality issues raised in the article, therefore, were design and operation flaws. Although it is known that the explosion was a result of a power surge, the exact causes of this surge remained uncertain. However, the article categorically floated the idea that the fire and meltdown resulted from design flaws as well as operational errors. Chosen Quality Management Tools for Use * Brainstorming: This approach is chosen due to its ability to allow the exploration of a range of options. Additionally, it forms the basic starting point of investigations whereby a range of possibilities is floated for further evaluation. Through this tool, various professionals can propose multiple factors that could result in quality problems at the plant. * Cause and effect diagram: This approach is as well useful in such an evaluation given that it allows various possible causes to be linked to their likely effects. This allows the quality management team to not make timely identification of the possible challenges but also make headway in identifying the impact the individual challenges are likely to have on the plant’s functionality. * Pareto Chart: Based on the concept that most of the challenges in operation are caused by only a few problem items. This is useful in the identification of those items with extremely grave consequences and accords them, the importance they deserve. 3 actions to be taken in investigating the problem 1. Undertake a critical investigation of possible challenges associated with the management of the nuclear plant. This includes reviewing the reasons behind the successes and failures of other plants. 2. Bring together a team of experts to review the scenario and suggest possible causes. 3. Investigate each case and look at its possible effect on the building while attempting to match the recorded facts relating to the problem. References Wald, J. D. (2011). Chernobyl Nuclear Accident (1986). New York Times, p. 6. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
In most American states, especially in the north, wildfires cause massive loss of vegetation and lives. In particular, the states of Idaho, Montana and others in the region are adversely affected whenever the phenomenon occurs. However, the current situation in Idaho is worth discussion due to the economic and health impacts of wildfires in Wood River Valley, Sun Valley and Beaver Creek. Arguably, the Idaho Wildfires have led to massive loss of economic resources, destruction of opportunities. In addition, they threaten the public health sector. In august 2013, a number of efforts were made to ensure that the wildfires in Idaho did not affect tourism and other vocational activities in the region (Jasper 16). However, the extent of the phenomenon threatened the fire authorities, to an extent of calling for immediate evacuation of humans and animals (Miller 12). For instance, the Beaver Creek fire around the Wood River Valley caused massive loss of vegetation cover. The fire threatened the lives of thousands of people living in the area. For instance, the area is popular with wealthy homeowners, who have set up large and luxurious Lexuses (Miller 12). In addition, it threatened the lives of thousands of employees, residents and tourists during the month of august. According to Jasper (16), the Beaver Creek wildfire is a rare phenomenon because it has come into close proximity with a substantial-sized community, threatening their lives, businesses and the economy. In fact, the University of Oregon’s study on wildfire shows that the economic impact of the wildfires in the region is mixed. For instance, the increased spending on fire related services and fire suppression efforts cause socioeconomic damages. In addition, the report suggests that the fires cause long-term instability in the state’s labor markets because there is a surge in the need for labor during wild fires and layoffs after the fires are over. In the health sector, the wildfires have affected thousands of people living in rural areas. The volume of smoke, for instance, is large and has the potential to cause some health concerns in the area. For example, fresh air is always a public health concern during wildfires. In addition, the ability of the Beaver Creek fire to come close to the residential area this year is an additional threat to humans and property. While it was possible to provide the locals with cleaner air using aircrafts, reaching out for rural populations is always difficult, thus compromising the rural public health. However, the last wildfire in Idaho also affected communities living in towns such as Beaver Creek due to its proximity to a large population. Large tracts of city land were occupied with dust and smoke from the fire, which affected the air around the towns. In this way, the air transportation industry remained closed for more than a week, while streets and most businesses remained closed. In addition, thousands of tourists were evacuated, despite being a peak season. While some of these aspects only affected the economic sector, others affected the public health sector. For example, the impact of smoke and dust may be ignored, but it is theoretically evident that it may have affected the health of some people, especially those with asthma. In conclusion, the recent wildfires in Idaho are a significant threat to the economic and health sectors. Effective fire response and prevention protocols must be put in place to avoid these threats in future. Works Cited Jasper, William. “Burning Up the West: Feds, Greens Cause Catastrophic Fires”. The New American . 23 August 2013: 16. Print. Miller, John. “Uncontrollable Idaho Fire Ruins Vacations for the Rich and Famous”. The Time News . 23 August 2013: 12. Print | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The Ukita Family and the Skeen Family Compare & Contrast Essay The Ukita family has a medium degree of well-being because it owns all necessary household appliances, including the washing machine, two TV sets, the microwave oven, and the kitchen machine. The children and parents are well dressed and they have enough clothing in their wardrobe. They also have a family car, which is another necessary attribute of wealth. As per the Skeen family, it has relatively similar level of well-being because they have enough household appliances, two cars, and good furniture. They also garage for their automobile. Both the Japanese family and the American family seem to be happy and well off, but in a difference sense. The Ukita family is more concerned with material well-being, which can be judged from the things that are placed in front of the house. Besides, the family itself is sitting around the table and watching TV. Therefore, it can be concluded that the parents are more interested on earning more money and become richer. Despite their focus on household values, the Ukita family still adheres to the Japanese traditions by eating traditional dishes and sitting at the table without shoes on. The family leaves the shoes outside the kitchen before entering the room. In contrast, the Skeen family attaches much more importance to spiritual and cultural values rather than to the material ones. Mrs. Skeen holding the Bible is another evidence of the family’s adherence to religion and traditions. The wall with family photos handing on it is another thing that supports the family’s adherence to family values. Therefore, the members of the Skeen family are less concerned with material well-being because all household appliances are placed in the background of the photo. Aside from economic well-being, the photos depict the differences in social well-being and its influence on the families. In particular, the Ukita family is depicted as sitting in front of the TV and watching news. So, it is possible to suggest that they are interested in what is going on in the world, but are less concerned with what is going on in the neighboring house. In contrast, the Skeen family rely less on mass media because they are more focused on face-to-face communication. They are more open-minded and less prejudiced. Environmental issues are also brightly illustrated in the photo. Hence, the Skeen family considers environmental problems a priority because all of the furniture items seem to be made up from the ecologically pure materials. Unlike the Skeens, the Ukita do not pay much attention to the environment because there is no sign of their interest in the surrounding world. While comparing these two families, it should be stressed that the Japanese family is under greater influence of popular culture and consumerism trends because all of the items presented are traditional objects that an average family should have, including clothing, appliances, and car. Unlike the Japanese interior, the American family is more likely to stay beyond the media culture expansion because they are less attracted with the material values. The poses of the Skeen member are also more open and they look happier than Japanese family members. Allocation of objects, including car and furniture in the foreground serve as a sound argument for the adherence to consumerism. The Skeen family stands separately from the interior, which indicates their indifference to material objects. Works Cited “MW-Japan”. n. d. JPEG File. 20. Nov. 2012. Print. “MW-US”. n. d. JPEG File. 20 Nov. 2012. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The New Samsung Razr MZR Features Essay Recently, the company launched the new Samsung Razor MZR, which is poised to be a market leader as far as the current trends in mobile telephony are concerned. The new Razor MZR boasts of several inherent features that make it a convenient and reliable option for many users. In addition to that, the phone has a sleek design that is aimed at ensuring penetration in its target market, which comprises of youthful individuals who usually look for style, technology, and convenience when shopping for mobile phones. In order to enjoy the functionalities and new features offered by Razor MZR, all one requires is a duly registered Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) card that will enable them access all the phone’s features through their mobile communications networks. Below is a step by step description of how to access the phone, its features, and other additional security and safety requirements associated with the phone’s usage. Setting up the phone * Open the package containing all the phone’s components including the battery, phone covers, and charger. * Install your SIM card in the slot labelled SIM. * Install the phone battery in the battery socket and ensure that this installation is done correctly. * Put on the phone cover gently and ensure that it fits properly. * To switch on the phone, long press the red button key and wait for around two seconds. * If all this has been done correctly, a welcome message appears with the company’s logo at the centre of the screen. Accessing the Phone’s Main features * Once the phone has been switched on, follow the prompt requiring you to set up your access credentials so that only you can have access to your phone. * Once you have set up the relevant details, it is now possible to access the various phone features using the phone’s touch screen interface. * Touch on the icon that you wish to further explore and see all the features and applications that are contained thereon. * To access your contacts, a phonebook icon that looks like an actual book is used to do this. * To browse the internet, use the web browser icon by touching it and inputting the appropriate URL address on the browser’s search bar. Additional Features In addition to the traditional phone features, the new Samsung Razor MZR has other additional features that set it apart from many of the mainstream mobile phone devices in the market today. These features include Wi-Fi functionality, high resolution camera, reliable Bluetooth connectivity, GPRS satellite system, a big internal memory of up to 8 gigabytes, and an expandable external memory slot of up to 32 gigabytes. * To enable the phone access wireless networks around it, use the wireless access button on the left side of the phone labelled Wi-Fi. * Push the button upwards to switch it on (access to wireless network) and downwards to switch it off (no access to wireless network). * The camera can be accessed through the camera icon on the phone menu. * To take a photo using the phone’s camera, push down the centre navigation key and hold it down until a camera flash appears. * Just like the camera, the Bluetooth functionality can also be accessed using the phone menu icons. * Identify the connectivity icon and select it. * In the options presented, select Bluetooth and then proceed to select Bluetooth on. Best Regards | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Job’s Suffering and God’s Response Essay Three Radical Ideas The Book of Job discusses several radical ideas regarding human suffering and God. First, the Book of Job focuses on questioning the so-called “rules” that were created before Job’s existence. Regardless, no rulebook could help understand those rules. Even though Job starts questioning the fairness of the world, he does not ignore the fact that certain rules do exist. The fact is, Job chooses to challenge the existing rules due to the visible unfairness of his suffering (Harris 203). This is why Job starts to doubt God. On a bigger scale, this is a direct link to the authors’ distrust towards tradition. These Job’s thoughts reflect a serious philosophical implication relating to the problem of suffering (Harris 203). Another radical idea of the Book of Job is that pain is (and should be) an irreplaceable aspect of human existence. The authors of the Book of Job provide us with explicit examples of different types of pain and imply that no one can evade pain. Job is exposed to physical pain (rash and blisters), emotional pain (the deaths of almost all Job’s close ones), and spiritual pain (as Job questions the reasons for punishment and tortures himself on the inside) (Harris 204). Overall, the question that is raised by the Book of Job is whether we know how to react to the pain that is associated with divine loyalty (Harris 206). The last radical idea is the perception of death. In the Book of Job, almost everyone dies. Regardless, the book itself does not concentrate on the process of destruction and does not normalize death. The key aspect of this idea consists in the fact that physical destruction is closely related to the philosophical side of the question (Harris 206). Ultimately, the deaths of people from Job’s “society” elicit the thoughts regarding the meaning of human life and its fragility. Leviathan, God, and Job After God shows Leviathan to Job, He asks him if the latter can retort. This is where Job realizes that he is not righteous and there is no reason to persist and prove his righteousness to God (Hobbes 221). Nonetheless, this situation presents God perfectly. He is not cruel; He is rigid. God’s struggle with Leviathan leaves no chance to Job as he has countless questions without an equal number of answers. God says to Job that he has to be courageous and answer His questions if he has nothing more to say to God. Further, He asks Job if the latter can be equal with God. Job demands justice for himself because he considers himself righteous and expects to be treated fairly by everyone (including God) (Harris 206). Job believes that the wicked should be punished, but he cannot punish them himself. This is why God rigidly rejects Job’s protest. The fact of accusing God will not establish Job’s righteousness. God hints at the fact that righteousness cannot exist without Him and Job virtually has no right to sue a certain right to righteousness from God. Leviathan gives the idea of a symbol of dark forces that cannot be defeated by man alone (Hobbes 221). The representation of nature is a hippopotamus lying in the water, which has no concern for people, whether they are righteous or sinners. God ultimately outlines His struggle with Leviathan and His attitude towards Job’s accusations by saying that there is no sense to address nature because one will achieve nothing from it. In the face of natural powers, righteousness does not stand a chance as only God’s direct intervention can help. Works Cited Harris, Stephen L. Understanding the Bible . McGraw-Hill, 2013. Hobbes, Thomas. Leviathan . Continuum, 2005. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Film-Making Techniques in “Citizen Kane” Essay The film Citizen Kane (1941) is regarded as the best movie of our times. The creators of this movie used very innovative techniques for that time. First of all, the narrative technique of the film was very innovative: the whole film is made by a number of flashbacks as if it was made by the short newsreels. The movie begins with the death of the main character, and then the audience is shown the retrospective of his life, from his childhood up to his last days. This not-linear structure makes the audience more attentive and interested in events because it is like a puzzle, which is gathered together in a single and complex picture. The audience is not just listening or watching a life story. They are getting to know interesting and the most memorable moments of the main hero’s life. One of the interesting techniques here is that in the very beginning of the movie, the reporter has an aim: to find out what the last word of this man means. And at the end of the film, we understand the meaning and guess a riddle. Speaking about the filmmaking techniques, there are two of them, the most impressive. First of all, it is the use of the so-called low-angle shots when the ceiling appears in the shot. It was quite unexpected for me because I can’t remember a lot of examples of such a thing. The other technique that impressed me is the use of so-called “deep focus,” when everything, the foreground, and background, is equally seen, i.e., in a sharp focus. I didn’t notice it at once; I can’t actually remember the precise episode when I became aware of the fact that everything is seen untypically well. And it is very interesting, for we are used to the foreground in the sharp focus and background is uncertain, or vice versa; and in this film, we see all the details distinctly. Another interesting move of the film creators is the last scene: when the stuff of Kane is burnt down, among which we find the clue to the riddle – “Rosebud,” Kane’s sled. And the film ends with the same vision it was started the plate “NO TRESPASSING.” To my mind, this ending shows us that most human life can be unnoticeable in terms of the whole of humanity: we see nothing changes before and after the death of Kane – there is that plate on the gate. That great mention was still there with that plate, even without its inhabitant. But another message of this film is people choose their destiny, and they must live their lives carefully: having simple happy moments instead of making a lot of money, which are not even used properly, for that luxury which surrounded Kane was unnecessary even for him because he didn’t have someone to share his fortune with. This film can be called old, but it can never be regarded as outdated. First of all, the idea of the film (to reach the real values of life, and not to chase for money, losing one’s heart and soul) remains very important nowadays, because the problems revealed in this movie are eternal. And as for the filmmaking techniques, it is necessary to say that a lot of modern filmmakers can and even should learn from Citizen Kane how to create a really good movie. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Research Question 2. Identification of population 3. Performance of search for the evidence 4. Conclusion 5. References Research Question How often do premature infants with nasogastric tube feedings finally become breastfed? Identification of population The objective of the research is to undertake comparative studies of nasogastric and breastfeeding methods as two complementary methods of feeding premature babies and to take adequate steps to wean infants away from tube feeding to an established breastfeeding regime. (Transitioning preterm infants with nasogastric tube supplementation: Increased likelihood of breastfeeding, 2009). The population would be newborn infants in state and private nursing care centers. In the randomized survey conducted, 84 premature infants with birth weights between 1 kg to 2.5 kgs were taken as participants. It was seen during the course of the research that when compared to infants being bottle-fed, tube fed, premature infants created more chances for breastfeeding in the time span of 3 days, 3 months, and 6 months period after discharge. “Odds ratios (confidence intervals = 95%)showed that the group receiving nasogastric supplements was 4.5 times (1.4 to 15) more likely to be breastfed at discharge and 9.4 times more likely to be fully breastfed (3.1 to 28.4).” (Kliethermes et al., 1999). Variables in the research study: The expertise of the midwifery processes and the careers are important considerations for the success of this study. Besides, there needs to be physical closeness between mother and child during the process. Types of data (Qualitative and Quantitative necessary to answer the question): Both qualitative and quantitative data are needed. It is also necessary to have the quantitative details of terms of premature newborns, birth weight, type of delivery- Caesarean section or normal, etc. Performance of search for the evidence It was observed during the course of the research that when compared to infants being bottle-fed, tube fed, premature infants created more chances for breastfeeding in different time span after discharge. “Odds ratios (confidence intervals = 95%)showed that the group receiving nasogastric supplements was 4.5 times (1.4 to 15) more likely to be breastfed at discharge and 9.4 times more likely to be fully breastfed (3.1 to 28.4).” (Transitioning preterm infants with nasogastric tube supplementation: Increased likelihood of breastfeeding, 2009). Conclusion It is seen through the deliberations of research that using a nasogastric tube is a better option than bottle-feeding and enhances the chances of breastfeeding the preterm infant at discharge, as long as required parameters are adhered to. However, it is necessary that further study should explore differences in the implications of it on mothers’ confidence levels, imprinting, and suck mechanism when preterm infants are bottle-fed and breastfed. (Kliethermes et al., 1999). References 1. Kliethermes, PA., et al. (1999). Transitioning preterm infants with nasogastric tube supplementation: increased likelihood of breastfeeding . NCBI: Pub Med. Web. 2. Transitioning preterm infants with nasogastric tube supplementation: Increased likelihood of breastfeeding. (2009). Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, & Neonatal Nursing, 28 (3), 264-273. Wiley Interscience. 3. Transitioning preterm infants with nasogastric tube supplementation: Increased likelihood of breastfeeding: Abstract. (2009). Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, & Neonatal Nursing, 28 (3), 264-273. Wiley Interscience. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Introduction 2. Fuel Cell 3. Future of the world 4. Conclusion 5. References Introduction Energy is essential to the world. It ensures smooth execution of industrial and domestic activities. However, its availability is uncertain since most sources face extinction. These include fossil fuels and hydropower, among others. Fossil fuel sources face depletion due to exhaustion. On the other hand, global warming has led to unpredictable weather that has dried most water catchment areas. This has affected reliability of hydropower. In addition, other sources of energy like nuclear plants have caused calamities in areas such as Japan and Russia, among others. Therefore, to minimize risks of hazards from nuclear power plants and to reduce depletion of energy sources, major stakeholders in the energy sector have turned to alternative sources. These include fuel cell energy, solar energy and wind energy, among others. This paper will explore fuel cell energy and its implication on the future of the world (Chevron Corporation, 2013). Fuel Cell Fuel cell can be described as a device (electrochemical) that converts chemical energy into electrical. It does this by combining hydrogen (in some cases hydrocarbon) fuel with oxygen (usually from air) to produce electricity. Other products of this reaction are usually water and heat. This reaction does not involve conventional combustion reaction and it therefore produces (DC) direct current. This device is made by sandwiching an electrolyte member between oxidant electrodes and fuel. The kinds of fuel utilized are sometimes biogas or fossil fuels. The oxidant utilized in this process is usually air. The process involves oxidizing of fuel at the anode from which electrons are released to the cathode. Electron move through an external circuit. When these electrons meet the fuel (in this case hydrogen), they push charged ions through the electrolyte. These ions then move through the conducting electrolyte to complete the circuit. This process is simple and it does not require complex parts as observed in other methods. Moreover, it has high efficiency of conversion, which enables it to produce both power and heat (CHP). It has negligible emissions to the environment and low-impact characteristics. It is therefore desirable in most applications as it is environment friendly. It is also necessary to note that fuel cell plants can utilize other fuel sources like coal gas, propane, municipal gas, industrial gas and natural gas. This source of energy is cheap and convenient for both domestic and industrial use. it provides efficiency, flexibility and CHP, which is essential for sustainable development (FuelCell Energy, Inc., 2013). Future of the world The world’s future is bent on realizing credible and reliable sources of energy. The full implementation of fuel cell power plants would help in realizing these objectives. Fuel cell energy is environmental friend; this puts it on course as a credible alternative source of energy. Moreover, the fact that it produces both power and heat would be advantageous to industries that implement its use worldwide. Furthermore, it has various alternative sources of fuel such as propane and natural gas, among others. This would help in management of fossil fuels for a prolonged future of the world. Fuel cell technology is timely and convenient of a world that is facing numerous problems associated with the environment. Moreover, use of energy from fossil fuels have increased depletion of ozone layer thereby contributing to global warming. Use of fuel cell technology would reduce overreliance on fossil fuels and hence reduce green gas emissions that deplete the ozone layer. Fuel cell energy presents a future to the world. In fact, its ability to be utilized for both domestic and industrial purposes inclines it for potential growth. Moreover, the massive costs incurred in generating electricity from other sources would be greatly reduced. This would allow for focus on other sectors of growth to develop the world’s economy. Fuel cell technology provides the most viable option for industries to utilize fuel efficiently. This would also minimize depletion of fossil fuel sources as the sector majors on fuel cell energy. It is also necessary to note that combining fuel cell technology with other alternative sources such as solar, wind and geothermal power would be beneficial to the future of the world. This would reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a drastic manner. The world would have a positive future with fuel cell energy. Conclusion The world is facing unpredictable future due to exploitation of its nonrenewable energy sources. This has caused major stakeholders to explore alternative sources. These include fuel cell energy, nuclear power, solar power, wind power and geothermal power, among others. However, among these sources, fuel cell energy provides the best source of energy for the world in terms of risk, reliability, efficiency and cost. For instance, while solar energy is relatively cheap, it has low efficiency and reliability. On the other hand, geothermal power is efficient but very expensive. This leaves fuel cell as the best source of energy. The world would therefore have a bright future if fuel cell power plants were to be implemented fully (Cartlidge, 2003, p. 1). References Cartlidge, E. (2003). Fuel cells: environmental friend or foe? Web. Chevron Corporation (2013). Fuel Cells: Providing Clean, Reliable Power . Web. FuelCell Energy, Inc . (2013). Fuel cell technology . Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Amazing Grace Hymn by John Newton Essay Amazing Grace is a Christian hymn widely sung in the world. It was written by a slave trader, John Newton in 1770s. Newton was an ordained Anglican priest and his journey to priesthood was not a usual one. He was a son of a merchant ship commander and his father took him in some of the voyages when he was 11 years old. John lived a desperate life that was sinful and wretched up as a slave trader. He joined the naval service where he became a mid shipman, the job he did not like. His job changed to a common seaman and due to this humiliation, he thought of committing suicide (Aitken 29). In one of the slave expeditions, Newton faced a storm, he prayed to God and survived. On one occasion, John fell into the sea. In an attempt to rescue him, his fellow crew threw a hook on him which hooked his thigh, they pulled him to safety and from there onward, John walked with a limp. John’s mother died of tuberculosis and he was left with a family friend to take care of him. These are the acts that led Newton to compose the song because he saw how God’s grace was amazing. The song was personal to John as it was a song of salvation and redemption. Newton was a sinner but through the amazing grace of God, he is now found (Aitken 17). God’s grace is not of this world and it is supernatural, that’s why Newton refers to it as to an amazing one. People think that religion is the making of an individual’s mind and that it is under the influence of the person acting on it. No man can give or take away another man’s grace. John suffered from a stroke that incapacitated him and he was unable to return to the sea. He saw this as a test to his spiritual well-being and it motivated him to study Christianity further (Steel 36). Christians believe that the son of God Jesus Christ will save them from the evil through the repentance. The blood of Jesus Christ on the cross washes away the sins Christians commit. They believe that grace washes away their sins and a wretch like John got his salvation because of God’s grace. John became an Anglican priest after he left the slave trade. “Amazing Grace is at its heart the hymn-equivalent of what Christians believe is the greatest redemption story in history” (Shmoop Editorial Team par. 3). John’s redemption was spiritual and had God’s grace in it. The song talks of the harm that would befall a Christian if he doesnt rely on God. It brings the picture of someone who has experienced “many dangers, toils, and snares” (Shmoop Editorial Team par. 3) but the grace of God saved him and he is now safe. It tells about forgiveness and celebration of life after death. “They may have been lost, but now they’re found, blind, but now they see” (Shmoop Editorial Team par. 6). The blindness, John is speaking about, is spiritual blindness. The grace of God can open the eyes of the spiritually blind. The song brings a different way of solving our problems. The theme of the song states that when there are many difficulties in life, the solution is to kneel in front of God for answers. It encourages believers of the existence of life after death. John says, that when this flesh and heart shall fail and the mortal life stops, he shall possess “a mortal life full of joy and peace” (Steel 29). It is a unifying factor that brings together religions and the concepts of freedom in a free society after death. The song is used in many occasions like funerals to give hope to the bereaved that there is a life after death. Works Cited Aitken, Jonathan. John Newton: From Disgrace to Amazing Grace . Wheaton, Ill: Crossway Books Press, 2007. Print. Shmoop Editorial Team . Amazing Grace Meaning . Shmoop University, 2012. Web. Steel, Danielle. Amazing Grace . New York, NY: Delacorte Press, 2007. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The Concept of Pop Music Expository Essay Music can be divided into many styles depending on a host of factors, including the message, tempo, target audience, region of origin, and the instruments used to make the music. Different styles and forms of music have qualified to be known as popular music due to their wide appeal to some sections of the population, though they may be equally disliked with passion by other sections of the population. Pop music is one such style of popular music that I personally dislike. Deriving from rock and roll, Pop music found its distinctiveness in the 1950s to not only become one of the world’s most listened style of popular music, but also one of the very few styles to achieve a global appeal and following. In contemporary times, pop music is best represented by such artists as Christina Aguilera, Rihanna, Carly Rae Jepsen, Taylor Swift, Shakira, Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars and Britney Spears. Some of the noted founders of pop music include the Raspberries, Cheap Trick, The Beatles, The Knack, and Big Star ( https://www.liveabout.com/what-is-pop-music-3246980 ). Pop music has unique characteristics that differentiate it from other styles of popular music. For example, pop music is often characterized by short-to-medium length songs, which are essentially written in a basic format such as the verse-chorus arrangement. Another characteristic of pop music which makes it distinctive from other styles is the common employment of repeated choruses and catchy hooks in songs, making the songs memorable and easy to grasp within a short span of listening. Additionally, it can be argued that most artists who sing pop music are concerned primarily with advancing audience pleasure in listening to the music. These characteristics imply that pop music is not performed and recorded as a symphony, suite, or concerto; rather the most basic arrangement for pop music is the song consisting of verse and repeated chorus, and ranging between 2 ½ minutes and 5 ½ minutes in length. It can be argued that pop music employs the concept of simple harmonies as most artists augment a melody line by playing musical notes at the same time, either higher or lower than the melody note itself, and therefore thickening up a vocal or guitar lead line to provide the whole melody with a totally different feel. Pop idols such as Britney Spears and Shakira make a massive distinction in their songs by adding just a few harmonies in elected places in line with the concept of simple harmonies. Additionally, it can be argued that pop musicians not only employ repeated choruses, melodic tunes, and catchy hooks to come up with a totally distinctive type of music, but also use electric guitars, bass for instrumentation, and drums to enhance the musical experience. Pop music finds its huge appeal in the targeted audience by not only utilizing electric guitars, drums, bass for instrumentation, and simple harmonies, thereby making the music pleasurable and smooth to listen to, but also in its capability to borrow and incorporate elements, concepts and ideas from a wide range of musical styles, including rock, metal, R&B, country music, disco, Latin music, punk and hip hop. These adaptations do not necessarily imply that pure pop does not exist; on the contrary, the genre continues to find wide appeal as music which characteristically consists of comparatively brief songs played on the contemporary electric guitar, bass and drums with lead vocals that have a very imperious catchy chorus, or hook. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Moreover, the measures were assessed basing on the cognitive task that ensured alternation occurred across the reward and no-reward conditions. The study utilized several hypotheses. Firstly, it denoted that children suffering from ADHD will have an increasingly high tendency to make errors while exhibiting diminished post error slowing when compared with control children. Secondly, diminishing ERN and Pe amplitude will be observed more in the suffering children than in the control group. Thirdly, an improvement in the performance, post error slowing combined with early error detection (ERN amplitude) and error evaluation (Pe amplitude) will be recorded across the two groups. Fourthly, rewards will result in higher effects in the suffering children when compared to the controls. Fifthly, the suffering children will be more affected by negative feedback when compared to the developing children (FRN). Thirty children who included 24 males and 6 females ranging from the age of 10-12 years were included. In addition, the participants must be suffering from ADHD-combined type while a control group of 25(6 females) of similar age range. In ADHD group, the children exhibited not less than 6 symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity and functional impairment (score of 3 or greater) with a diagnosis of ADHD-combined subtype. For the control group, exhibition of less than 4 symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention coupled with less than 3 ODD symptoms and fewer than 2 CD symptoms coupled with negative diagnosis on all DISC-IV parameters. Children with IQ less than 80, parent comorbid development disorder, clinically elevated self reported anxiety were excluded. The children attended a singular 3 hour session after discontinuing stimulant medication for 24 hours. Assent and consent forms were reviewed, explanation of ECG application procedures before completion of the cognitive task. The stimuli used during the Eriksen Flanker Task comprised a series of arrows facing in similar or opposite directions. Identical and non-identical resulted in congruent and incongruent trials respectively with interference leading to errors of omission and commission. Electroencephalographic (EEG) and the response locked ERPs represented the independent variables included mean reaction time, N2 amplitude, post error slowing, and post-Too slow speeding formed the dependent variables. The psycho physiological measures were well justified with supporting methodological and empirical evidence. Repeated measures of ANOVA proved useful during the analysis of the two groups’ relation with the parameters. The results showed a shorter response deadline for control patients, less accuracy and slower on incongruent in relation to congruent trials, participants responded more swiftly on correct trials while a larger as expected amplitude was recorded in incongruent than congruent trials. Differences in level of ERPs for errors were exhibited between the two groups unlike for correct responses. Moreover, greater levels of responses were reported for negative feedback unlike for positive feedback. The findings of the study showed consistency with self regulation and motivational models. In addition, the findings provide backing for the cognitive-energetic model with regard to evaluation and motivational processes. The results serves as additional evidence that rewards plays a major role in improving the behavior of suffering children. The study gives the importance of behavior modification and the need to apply behavioral and neural correlates inn the synthesis and evaluation of self regulatory models widely used in ADHD management. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The Issues of Pharmacogenetics Essay Background Pharmacogenetics is a rapidly expanding field with expectations of applications to human health. There has been mounting fear on the possible misuse of genetic information derived from genetic research and through that an intrusion on the privacy of an individual (Rothenberg & Terry, 2002). This concern about the misuse of genetic information and intrusion into the privacy of individuals has led to the development of safeguards to prevent such misuse, which has implications not just on current research, but on pharmacogenetic testing involving tests that may be developed in the future (Hamyas et al, 2004). Issues In the United Kingdom the collecting of material including genetic material for research and testing is governed by the Human Tissue Act 2004 (HT Act). The HT Act makes it mandatory for those involved in the removal, storage and use of human tissues, which includes human cells to have a license, as these are licensable activities. The HT Act also makes the retention of human material of tissues and cells for DNA analyses without the consent of the concerned individual an offence under DNA ‘theft’. These regulations of the HT Act impact reflect the importance of pharmacogenetics being a licensed activity and the role of the consent of the individual in any current tests and tests that may be developed in the future (Human Tissue Authority, 2004). The enrolment of subjects for pharmacogenetic testing is a documented process, which usually involves the creation of two separate documents consisting of the drug research protocol and the pharmacogenetic sampling protocol and informed consent from the research subject has to be sought and received for both the protocols. The informed consent document for pharmacogenetic sampling has necessarily to give appropriate information for the subject to make the informed decision on the donation of genetic material that is founded on the merits and risks of the aims and procedures alone (Anderson et al 2002). According to Anderson et al 2002, p.284, informed consent is “how potential research subjects make a judgment about the contribution that their involvement in the research can make, relative to the risks or benefits to them as individuals.” This makes the judgement to participate in potential testing hinge on the quality of the information provided to the concerned individual. This quality is provided when the all relevant information is provided to the concerned individual including the information on sample storage; sample replication, which includes the creation of immortalized sample lines, and/pr the provision of the samples to third parties, which include investigators and commercial entities, for any collaborative studies. The information given should also include the clear plans drawn up for sample destruction or depletion, particularly with regards to protecting the individual from any intrusion into the privacy of the individual (Anderson et al 2002). Two issues for the use of genetic material for future tests emerge from the regulations on the use of genetic material for pharmacogenetic testing. The use of the genetic material for any testing purposes is limited to the consent of the subject based on the information of the objectives and the procedures of the testing. This means unless the subject has been informed of the extension of the objectives of the current research into any future testing purposes, the genetic material cannot be used, even if the subject has consented to the use of genetic material in the current research objectives and procedures. The second issue is that genetic material cannot be stored indefinitely and has to be destroyed or depleted according the definite plans on sample storage as informed to the subject and agreed to by the subject in the interests of the privacy of the subject. These issues thus lay large hurdles and act as preventive measures in the use of collected material in pharmacogenetics tests that may develop some time in the future. Literary References Anderson, D. C., Gomez-Mancillai, B., Spears, B. B., Barnes, D. M. Cheeseman, K., Shaw, P. M., Friedman, J., McCarthy, A., Brazell, C., Ray, S. C., McHale, D., Hashimoto, L., Sandbrink, R., Watson, M. L., Salerno, R. A., Cohen, N. & Lister, C. E. 2002, ‘Elements of informed consent for pharmacogenetic research; perspective of the pharmacogenetics working group’, The Pharmacogenomics Journal , vol.2, pp.284-292. Hamyas, A., Madden, K. K., Nogee, L. M., Trusgnich, M. A., Wegner, D. J., Heins, H. B. & Cole, F. S. 2004, ‘Informed Consent for Genetic Research’, Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine , vol.158, no.6, pp.551-555. Human Tissue Authority. 2004, ‘Human Tissue Act’. Web. Rothenberg, K. H. & Terry, S. F. 2002, ‘HUMAN GENETICS: Before It’s Too Late Addressing Fear of Genetic Information’, Science , vol.297, no.5579, pp.196-197. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
“A Peace To End All Peace” by David Fromkin Essay The chapter under consideration deals with the Bolsheviks’ expansion, which shaped the development of the relations between the countries of the Middle East and Russia. It is important to note that though Lenin claimed it was important for nations to become independent, Bolsheviks made everything to re-conquer eastern territories. This Bolsheviks’ imperialistic policy made natives of the eastern territories develop strong hostility to the Russians. Interestingly, Bolsheviks claimed that the power of the proletariat is the most humanness order to build. They also promised to help nations conquered by the czar’s regime to regain their freedom. At the same time, Lenin claimed that the East did not have the working class to help the peasantry to build a democratic and just society. Lenin also stated that “[i]n effect this meant that the peoples of the East were not yet ready to exercise their right to be free” (Fromkin 476). At that, Stalin believed the nations should be subordinate to the central power, i.e., the power of Moscow. Basically, the short-term goals of the two leaders were similar. It is also important to note that religious beliefs and cultural traditions made people of the East oppose the new order. Natives of the East were against the rule of the proletariat, and Lenin inevitably fought the majority. Fromkin provides an example of Turkistan, which reveals the experience of other countries of the Middle East. Eventually, “[l]ike other such colonies, it found that its economy was exploited for the benefit of its European masters” (Fromkin 477). Thus, the Bolsheviks’ policy did not differ from the policies of other imperial European countries, which tended to exploit people of other countries. Therefore, the author provides insights into the development of relations between European Russia and the Russian East. The author also explains the reasons which made Bolsheviks move farther. The new ruling group was afraid of any external threat which could come from such countries as China or Persia. It is possible to claim that the author reveals some of the reasons (or rather major reasons) for complicated relations between European Russia and some countries of the Middle East. Bolshevik’s policies contributed greatly to the development of such tense relationships. Bolshevik’s imperialism can be regarded as another example of European empires’ attitude towards the countries of the Middle East. Thus, Bolsheviks considered the countries of the East to be an inseparable part of their huge empire. This meant that Bolsheviks could exploit people, lands, etc. of that part of their empire. Admittedly, such an imperialistic policy evoked resistance in the people of the East. People of those countries acknowledged that any force which came from the west was hostile. No matter what promises Europeans made, the people of those countries turned out to be deceived. Of course, the East developed a specific profile of the Western country. The East tended to be hostile to Russians. To sum up, the chapter focuses on the relations between Russia and the Russian East in the 1920s. The author provides insights into the development of hostility to Russians in some countries of the Middle East. The author states that Bolsheviks, who claimed to bring a new better order, actually continued the imperialistic policy of czarist Russia. This was one of the ways of exploitation which made people of the East detest and distrust the Russians. The events of the 1920s, to a great extent, shaped the development of the relations between the countries of the Middle East and Russia. Works Cited Fromkin, David. A Peace to End All Peace , New York, NY: Holt Paperbacks, 2001. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Mythology of the Mongols. A Lecture for Librarians Coursework According to Brian, Mongolia is a Chinese province known as ‘Outer Mongolia?’ The Mongol language is one of the renowned Altaic families of languages that include Vigur, Turk Oroquen, the Ewenk, the Daur, and lastly, the unanimous Manchu (Brian, 1998). The Mongolians are credited with diverse literature such as ‘Secret history,’ a story about the ancient life of Khan Chingis. This is a historical time between the years 1162 and 1227 A.D. Other than the common Mongolian culture, the Mongols have other variety stories, told in both Chinese and in English (Australian Aborigine Creation Myth, 2006). The stories include: 1. The story of the boy hunter 2. The story of the three sisters 3. The two friend’s story 4. The story of the greedy dog References Australian Aborigine Creation Myth. (2006). Creation Myths. Williams University. Web. Brian, P (1998) Reading about the world, Washing State University Press | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Women’s and Men’s Wages Discrepancies and Reasons Essay Earning lower wages by women as compared to men is a reality that is evident across various professions. On average, female workers are paid 79 cents for a dollar that their male counterparts are paid despite the great number of females having joined various occupations in addition to their enormous achievements in academics (Schieder & Gould, 2016, p. 1). After adjusting for characteristics such as cumulative years of schooling, career background, and locale, different research studies contend that overt gender discrimination has an impact on male and female wage differences (Schieder & Gould, 2016). Sexism is an issue that many employed women have to grapple with in their workplaces. Additionally, high-paying professions require long hours of commitment that may be disadvantageous to many women as they tend to shoulder most of the family caretaking responsibilities (Schieder & Gould, 2016). Without a doubt, societal norm is a major factor that encourages gender biases that are attributable to the existing wage gap between women and men in their respective workplaces. The arguments about women having lower wages compared to men are convincingly true as other researchers agree on the existence of such discrepancies. From some scientific studies, women were found to earn 84% of men’s compensation in terms of the average hourly remunerations of part-time and full-time employment (Graf et al., 2021, p. 1). Based on the evidence, the mean wages for females were slightly lower than for men. Notably, motherhood has been cited as a factor that interrupts women’s career development. It has been established that of all workers who have taken any form of leave from their occupations, mothers tend to have significantly more time from work compared to fathers (Graf et al., 2021). Implicatively, the responsibilities associated with motherhood are more compared to fatherhood concerning caretaking in a home setup. With the support of these elaborated findings, I find the arguments of Schieder and Gould on the wage gap between female and male workers to be incontestable. References Graf, N., Brown, A., Barroso, A., & Patten, E. (2021). Gender wage gap in U.S. held steady in 2020. Pew Research Center. Web. Schieder, J., & Gould, E. (2016). “Women’s work” and the gender pay difference: How biases, societal morals, and other forces affect women’s occupational choices—and their pay. Economic Policy Institute , 20 . Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Chinese Gods’ Various Teachings Essay The majority of Hong Kong residents were initially predominant worshipers of Confucius. They believed in the Holy Trinity of Guanyin, Amutabha Duddha and Shakiyamuni Buddha. Later on, Hong, the self-proclaimed Heavenly King and God’s son, introduced Taiping during an era of great peace. Taiping demanded former worshipers of Confucius to first repent their iniquities before they could embrace the new faith. Taiping era led to the demolition of Confucius mortals as well as subsequent serious attempts to eradicate Confucius who was later judged in Heaven. He also made to repent and later on, as Hong told his subjects through his elder brother, “Jesus” was enjoying Heavenly happiness. It later emerged that Hong had structured Taiping so as to create his own kingdom in Hong Kong. The entry of British missionaries in Hong Kong led to the revelations of errors in the Biblical interpretations done by Hong. For instance, Jesus was the only Son of God and not a brother to Hong. More so, other additions, deletions and inclusions in the Taiping version of the Bible that differed with the received text were also revealed. These revelations led to a rebellion led by Huoxioi in unity with other missionaries against Hong and Taiping. It is recorded that approximately 20,000,000 Chinese were directly affected by this war which marked the beginning of true Christianity in Hong Kong that later spread to other parts. The Taiping civil war saw the correction of the version of the Taiping Bible, both Old and New Testament to the initial version as perceived to have been received from God. The various teachings of Taiping on Christianity and worship were also denounced by the missionaries who now embarked on teaching about the true God in Heaven. Worship buildings initially used by Taiping were converted to classes of religion for Christians. Liang Afa and other converts also embarked on helping the Chinese believe in the true God through their teachings. The Confucius, Taiping era, the rebellion led by Robert Morrison and eventual civil war had various impacts on the Christian fraternity in Hong Kong. The initial converts who had earlier denounced Confucius to follow Hong and the Taiping were left confused especially on who was the true God since Hong and the missionaries both claimed to serve God. They must also have been made to doubt God and his course of action. According to the teaching of Taiping, God was portrayed as benevolent to the extent that He even forgave Confucius. They were also taught that Jesus and Hong were God’s real children. There was no instance when God was so weak to let His Son’s Kingdom be overthrown in a war. The war also locked out a few individuals who were willing, but yet to embrace Christianity. It appeared to them that Christianity was like a path to sovereignty and power on the land. The transition from Confucius to Taiping and finally the fall of Taiping seemed like a tussle for power in Hong Kong. Those who were impressed by the Christian values but not interested in the tussles opted not to be Christians. Hong disguised himself as the Heavenly King in an attempt to create his own Kingdom in Hong Kong leading to the religious civil war in China. Although the rebellion had numerous effects, it gave rise to the worship of God in China. The fall of Taiping was not only in Hong Kong but in most parts of China. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Medical Errors in Emergency Care for the Elderly Research Paper Patient safety is one of the indicators to assess the quality of medical services. However, a common phenomenon is the occurrence of medical errors when threatening the elderly. During this process there are a large number of interruptions in the work, which leads to errors, and puts the health of patients at risk. Although not all have a negative effect, they are considered to be the cause of most inaccuracies. Interruption causes additional strain, loss of concentration, and therefore is a serious problem. PICO In acute aged care how does interruptions compared to no interference influence the decrease of medical errors? Justification of Research The PICO provided for this topic has a quantitative approach to determine whether the results are statistically explained and valuable. Thus, the analysis based on direct observations provides the ability to draw conclusions about at least one result (error or interruption). Therefore, the probability of an accidental outcome decreases accordingly. The theme was chosen because of the general interest in the problem of interruptions or no interruptions. As research on this matter will assist improve the quality of treatment. Articles The article conducts a study aimed at identifying the reasons that lead to errors in the provision of emergency care for the elderly. For this aim, nursing databases were used, however, the research did not involve an investigation of the gray reports. The conclusions were inspected using an inductive content review. The failures were organized by content: those related to nursing competence, prescription and patient factors, medication management, and safety culture (Metsälä& Vaherkoski, 2014). A considerable proportion of remedy imprecision was due to a deficiency of awareness or knowledge in prescribing and technology usage. Disruptions or interruptions were also decisive for the number of mistakes. The conclusions of this study prove that doctors should interact more to limit misadministration. They are responsible for patients’ lives, and therefore they should spend more time on their education. It is also essential to record that ordering medicines should only be done in a peaceful state, with full attention and without disturbances from other things. The next study represents ten analyses carried out in the United States of America and Europe, according to which it is described how interruptions affect the general health of the sufferer. Although, there is no holistic conclusion that would provide indicators of clustering is the gap in the research. The problem with the research is that they used only the direct observation method. However, due to absence of sufficient control it is not clear the mistakes of doctors or nurses lead to deterioration of the patient’s condition (Raban, & Westbrook 2014). Moreover, it is not obvious which origins of delays and phases of drug treatment have an impact on the productivity of the cure. The outcome of the article is based on materials that there is still proof of the advantage of interventions to essentially decrease the rate of interruptions. However, this does not guarantee the effectiveness of decreasing mistakes in the introduction of drugs. References Metsälä, E., & Vaherkoski, U. (2014). Medication errors in elderly acute care–a systematic review. Scandinavian journal of caring sciences , 28 (1), 12-28. Raban, M. Z., & Westbrook, J. I. (2014). Are interventions to reduce interruptions and errors during medication administration effective?: A systematic review. BMJ quality & safety , 23 (5), 414-421. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The loyalty ladder is the structural model that implies the different levels of customer engagement in the selling process of a company’s products (Gerami & Vahid Yazdanian, 2018). Usually, the researchers define five levels of customer loyalty: suspects, prospects, customers, clients, and advocates (Gerami & Vahid Yazdanian, 2018). The loyalty ladder is an efficient tool to establish long-term relationships with clients. Different companies apply various marketing strategies to move customers from one level of the ladder to another. A loyal customer predominantly buys goods and services from only one brand, not paying attention to its competitors’ offers. Such a customer is the main driving force of the business, in the long run, helping to build a positive image of the company and advertising it for free in his inner circle. Therefore, creating a loyal customer base and assessing customer loyalty is a top priority for a company that plans to remain in demand on the market for a long time. In today’s e-business, the loyalty ladder is exceptionally vital in attracting customers online. The e-marketing strategies allow more advanced methods to build efficient loyalty programs. For the analysis of the practical appliance of the loyalty ladder, two brands of organic cosmetics were chosen: Pacifica and Annmarie. Both retailers provide online opportunities and loyalty programs for customers. Considering their activities from the perspective of customer loyalty, the brands’ programs aim at different ladder levels. The first online brand, Pacifica, offers a digital gift card ( Digital gift card , n.d.). A gift card of over 50 dollars in total is beneficial for the customers due to the random gift of over 75 dollars ( Digital gift card , n.d.). Thus, the card attracts new customers and benefits the current clients. Moreover, the cards have a thematic design relevant to many celebrations. The marketing strategy used by the brand aims at the recurrent buying of the customers. The program addresses the prospect’s and clients’ levels from the loyalty ladder perspective. However, it fails to establish the advocates’ relationships with the clients. Considering the variability of the brand, which can be found online, the strategy is poor in terms of long-time loyalty. The customer is not directly involved in the brand. Thereby, the chances of choosing other brands are higher. Though considering the mentioned ladder levels, the program is successful. The second example relevant to the analysis is Annmarie cosmetics. The company created the Wild & Beautiful Collective loyalty program to move the customer from the client’s level to the advocates ( Join the Wild & Beautiful Collective , n. d.). The community created for regular customers allows the company to develop its brand by providing discounts and point programs. The constant contact with other clients and creators of the brand empowers the higher level of engagement. As a result, clients are more focused on one brand, which minimizes the risk of competitors’ victory. This approach is highly relevant for e-commerce, enhancing loyalty. The program is beneficial for both the brand and customers due to paid subscriptions and various privileges. However, Annmarie’s strategy fails at the level of attracting new customers. Even though the profound base of loyal customers and advocates is established, broadening the brand’s potential is also vital for future development. Therefore, both brands provide loyalty programs based on their current needs. They succeed on one level while failing at another. Addressing all the levels of the ladder would be the perfect strategy for both retailers. However, brands promote programs relevant to the current budget and opportunities. Annmarie’s approach is more efficient from a long-term perspective. The Pacifica’s one is beneficial in terms of broadening the client base. References Digital gift card. (n.d.). Pacifica. Web. Gerami, M., & Yazdania, V. (2022). Customer loyalty and electronic loyalty . 5th International conference on Information Technology, computer and Telecommunication Technology of Iran, 1 , 1–5. Web. Join the Wild & Beautiful Collective. (n.d.). Annmarie. Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The author aims at uniting hip-hop ideas with such issues as gender differences, political commitment, and the identification of personal ideals. It is necessary to comprehend that hip-hop is not just an ordinary music genre that unites people. Hip-hop is “an artistic form of protest” (Gupta-Carlson, 2010, p.515) with the help of which many b-boys and b-girls can demonstrate their attitudes, share their stories, and prove their life beliefs. However, even if hip-hop can be defined as a free movement of people (disenfranchised African Americans in particular), there are still a number of contradictions and concerns about the idea of gendering hip-hop spaces. The main idea of the article under analysis is the intentions of female hip-hop artists to prove their choices and demonstrate their abilities by using the same rights male hip-hop artists have already got. There is no need to underline the supremacy of women or identify their differences with men. There is only one big hope to use hip-hop as a chance to share personal stories, express and challenge personal ideals, and get access to a normal life that is so cherished by many women of Seattle. Gupta-Carlson (2010) underlines that hip-hop gives women a voice. At the same time, hip-hop itself is defined as a voice for those people, who might feel that they do not have a voice but want to be heard and create their own calls for action. The author’s position is powerful indeed as it provides people, both, men and women, with the belief that hip-hop is a good portion of motivation for people, who lose their sense of life, who want to find meaning, and who want to belong to a community sharing similar ideals and approaches. Using personal observations, interviews with Seattle citizens, and the stories told by different women, Gupta-Carlson admits that it is not enough for women to have jobs, earn money, and come back home day by day in order to be happy. Hip-hop maybe that missing part for African American women to achieve happiness and satisfaction. “Planet B-Girl” is a symbol created to inspire young women of Seattle and consider hip-hop as one of the possible solutions to their personal problems. The summary offered by the classmate is strong indeed. The main points are clearly underlined, and the evaluation of the material offered by the author of the article is developed. On the one hand, there are no additional phrases and explanations that may distract the reader from the main points of the article. On the other hand, it seems like several thoughts developed by the author about hip-hop and the feministic ideals could be given to provide the reader with a general overview of the chosen topic. Still, the project under analysis may be improved if the author tries to delete several direct citations in the summary part and add more details about the reasons why the author of the article comes to a conclusion to identify and develop the evaluation of three failures of hip-hop feminism. It can be more interesting not to read the sentences taken directly from the article but to clarify how the classmate understands the messages of Jeffries, the author of “Hip Hop Feminism and Failure,” and interprets the material offered. Works Cited Gupta-Carlson, Himanee. “Planet B-Girl: Community building and feminism in hip-hop.” New Political Science 32.4 (2010): 515-529. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The Business Environment of Amazon Case Study The business environment consists of the factors that affect the operations of a business. These factors are identified through the environmental analysis, which is conducted either in the form of the SWOT or the PEST (EL) analyses (Powell, 863). Resources and capabilities are used by the business to gain the competitive advantage. These are the inputs available to a business that makes it operate successfully, and these may either be tangible or intangible (Warf and Stutz 113). The coordination of resources is the key to the success of a business. On the other hand, capabilities refer to the capacity of a business to either coordinate or deploy the resources within an organization, and are developed progressively. In the case study, Amazon, the leading online retailer, and supercenter, can outdo the competition by the adoption of new IT procedures to enter into the bookselling industry. This acts as turnaround in the aforementioned sector. One of the key environmental factors for Amazon is the competition within the industry due to the emergence of many publishers, and also due to the existence of other bookselling stores such as B & M stores and Barnes and Noble. Owing to the first mover advantage and development of new IT marketing policies, such as the use of the internet for selling books, Amazon had a large clientele base and it was difficult for its competitors to attract customers the way it did (Hill and Jones 272). Another key factor is the customers (consumers). The company’s mission emphasizes on the goal of Amazon to be the most custom-centered company in the globe. After the enrollment or signing up to its website, it was difficult to get the customer sign into other firms’ websites due to the loyalty attached to the Amazon products (Hill and Jones 272). Finally, the industry itself was another key factor. After taking the first mover advantage, Amazon turned around the bookselling industry by offering fresh competition to bookselling giants such as the Borders (Hill and Jones 272). Amazon possesses key internal resources and capabilities. To begin with, the incorporation of a first mover advantage through the use of patented customer-oriented software would be of a great value to Amazon. Moreover, adopting exceptional IT policies would help in reducing the competition. Furthermore, shifting focus to the web-based approach of buying and selling books online would enhance its performance. As it is an online-based company, that offers its customers immediate and instant access to its books in print form, it helps to boost its sales. Finally, embracing the formation of strategic alliances with the largest book publishers would ensure that Amazon’s customers get products without any delays in the distribution. The key strategic choices undertaken by Amazon are outlined above, including formation mergers with the well-established firms in the IT industry. This has helped it to increase the profit margin significantly. Amazon has also acquired other websites such as ‘Exchange.com,’ ‘Jungle.com, and ‘Planetall.com’ as a way of developing new and superior website techniques in order to enhance efficiency and retain the clientele base. Amazon launched the digital bookstores, video and music, and also the Amazon’s ‘Kindle Reader’ in order to give its customers varied options. Finally, Amazon’s movement into the ‘cloud’ computing and leveraging of its key competencies helped it to realize the value of its assets, vital for global expansion the drawbacks notwithstanding. The successful implementation of Amazon’s roadmaps enabled it gain the advantage over its competitors. Consequently, it realized record profits in the year 2011. Works Cited Hill, Charles, and Jones Gareth. Strategic Management, An integrated approach (10 th edition) . New York: St. Martin’s, 2014. Print. Powell, Thomas. “Competitive advantage: logical and philosophical considerations.” Strategic Management Journal 22.6 (2001): 863-865. Web. Warf, Frederick, and Stutz Barney. “The World Economy: Resources, Location, Trade and Development.” Online Journal on Economic 16.1 (2007): 110-113. Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Supportive Communication Obstacles and Recommendations Report (Assessment) The essential factor in communicative interaction is effective communication. However, many people fall short of this requirement and posses ineffective communication skills characterized by superiority complex, insensitivity, and an all knowing attitude. Supportive communication is the foundation of effective communication. Thus, this assessment essay analyses obstacles to supportive communication and recommendations on improving supportive communication. Supportive communication should be effective in preserving the relationship between parties involved while effectively addressing a predicament (Heath and Bryant 289). However, this is not the case in the relationship between Jill and her parents. The first communicative obstacle in this scenario is the incongruence approach Jill’s parent gives the problem. Though they seem supportive, this is not the case. They have a formed opinion of what is right for their daughter and are insensitive of her feelings. Jill’s mother asserts, “Political science? You never make money doing that. We only want the best for you”. Disregarding Jill’s opinion on career choice is likely to strain this relationship. The father makes an intimidating evaluative statement about monetary sacrifices which invokes a defensiveness feeling, prompting Jill to remind them of her life. In self defense, she says “I have to live my life, not yours!” Instead of being problem oriented, the parents personalize their comments prompting Jill to despise their suggestions (Whetten and Cameron 109). The mother asserts, “We’ve made so many sacrifices… give us respect in return.”Besides, the father makes invalidating statement which makes Jill’s choice unimportant. He asserts, “We do understand what’s best for you…we want you to be a doctor”. Such a statement lowers confidence and worthiness and leaves the person feeling impervious, inferior and indifferent especially when supposed supportive party is fixed minded and unwilling to accept an alternative (Heath and Bryant 289). Jill’s parents are rigid and ignorant of advising response from her. Generally, when there is ineffectiveness in supportive communication, defensiveness is unavoidable especially when a party feels attacked. An effective supportive communication lies n the pillars of congruency, descriptivism, validation, flexibility, respect, and sensitivity (Heath and Bryant 289). Jill’s parents should be problem oriented and accept her choice after creating a free environment for discussion. During this interactive forum, utmost congruency from both parties should characterize the decisions. Through expressing true feelings, communication congruence is likely to facilitate cordial relationship among the trio (Whetten and Cameron 109). Moreover, it is important for the trio to acknowledge the fact that they are a family. In making statements, the parents should adopt descriptive speech about range of solutions to the presumably sticky situation which has been inactive for period of time. The trio should be objective when expressing their feelings and focus on reaction and behavior, and not personality. Before making a statement, Jill’s parents should put into consideration the consequences of emotionally triggered utterances. Therefore, it is essential for the parents to validate their statements to win back Jill’s confidence and a sense of self worth. When practicing supportive communication, the communicator should be flexible enough to accommodate alternative solutions to a problem. This motivates the third party to positively participate and contribute an input (Whetten and Cameron 109). After all, supportive communication is a two way channel in which respectful communication travels. Rather than assuming the feeling of superiority, Jill’s parents should learn to exercise flexibility before making absolute resolutions to divert any indifference feeling which may overwhelm their daughter. Jill should internalize conjunctive communication characterized by free flow of information among the trio. Despite her opinion of the impervious parents, Jill ought to have made owned statements when she discovered her career. Conclusively, supportive communication is effective when the third party’s assumes the role of being a supportive listener. However, applying these attributes depends on the communicative skills of an individual. It is fair to identify own inaccuracies in communicating. When these attributes are effectively used, counseling and coaching, which relies on supportive communication, may carry positive feedback and boost life skills. Works Cited Whetten, David Allred and Kim S. Cameron. Developing Managerial Skills . New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2007. Print. Heath, Lawrence and Bryant Jennings. Human Communication Theory and Research Concepts, Contexts, and Challenges . London: Routledge, 2000. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Problem Summary 2. Method Selection 3. Analysis Flow Chart 4. Hypotheses Formulation 5. Data Collection 6. Results 7. Conclusion 8. References Problem Summary The purpose of this presentation is to decide whether the new invention promoted by the research department should be used for the appliances in the future. The research department of an appliance manufacturing firm has developed a solid-state switch for its blender that the research department claims will reduce appliance returns under the one-year full warranty by 3%–6%. The claim needs to be tested before making the final decision about using the switch in the future. Method Selection The purpose of the analysis will be to determine if the proportion of returned blenders with new switches were deferent from the proportion of blenders with old switches. If the difference between the proportion is statistically significant, the new switch will be considered more desirable. In order to test for proportions, two independent samples of blenders need to be taken and the proportion of returned blenders need to be compared. The comparison can be conducted using the Z-test for differences in proportions as recommended by Zou and collogues. Analysis Flow Chart The present slide demonstrate a flow chart of analysis. First, null and alternative hypotheses need to be stated. Second, data needs to be collected and organized. Third, the statistical test needs to be run after testing for assumptions. And finally, the results need to be interpreted. Hypotheses Formulation The null hypothesis is that there is no significant difference between the proportions of returned blenders with new and old switches. The alternative hypothesis is that there is a significant difference between the proportions of returned blenders with new and old switches. Data Collection Data from two samples of 250 blenders was collected using simple random sampling. Simple random sampling was used because it helps to decrease the level of bias during the participant selection procedures, as everyone in the population receives an equal chance to participate. Results The test was performed after checking if all the assumptions were met. In particular, both samples were random and independent. The test results revealed that there was no significant difference between the proportions of returned blenders with new and old switches with a significance level of 0.05. The p-value was 0.075, which was below the significance level. Therefore, the null hypothesis was accepted. Conclusion The results demonstrated that the claim made by the research department was false. Since there was no difference in the number of returns, it is not recommended to decide which switch to use based on this parameter. Further research should be conducted to improve the quality of switches. References * Etikan, I., & Bala, K. (2017). Sampling and sampling methods. Biometrics & Biostatistics International Journal, 5 (6), 00149. * Zou, K. H., Fielding, J. R., Silverman, S. G., & Tempany, C. M. (2003). Hypothesis testing I: proportions. Radiology , 226 (3), 609-613. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
An Analysis on Market Growth Rate & Competition in Juice Industry Essay Introduction With increasing health awareness, in respect to increasing education levels, consumers are paying more attention to the ingredients of the drinks they consume. The consumption of healthier drinks is increasing in a considerable rate. Consumers are now demanding more healthy and natural products. Fruit/vegetable juice suffered as a result of the economic downturn, with this product area seeing marginal total volume sales decline. However, sales proved more resilient than many product areas due to the health and wellness trend, with many switching from carbonates to fruit/vegetable juice as a result of its healthier and more natural image reconstituted 100% juice saw a better performance than more expensive not from concentrate 100% juice or nectars. Market Growth rate of fruits & Vegetable juice industry With economic disturbance all over the world, the disposable income of per person has decreased. The price has become one of the deciding factors in many countries. Due to which the buying capacity is adversely affected. Many companies are striving for the survival and the big companies are going for competitive strategies to maintain their sales level. Consumers are preferring fruit and vegetable juice market over aerated drinks on the basis of health and price. This makes increased market growth rate for fruits & vegetable juice. Competition in fruits & Vegetable juice industry There is a cut throat competition going on in all over the world among all the major market leaders and the local companies. To survive it has become essential for them to come out with new competitive strategies. With consideration of the Government policies of that particular country companies are taking different strategic decisions such as new product development, innovation in new flavors, new packaging, distribution etc. Companies fighting for the market share in the juice market are: Orangina Schweppes, Maspex Czech, Linea Nivnice, General Bottlers CR (PepsiCo), Kofola, Rauch, Coca cola co., Albi, JW childs, García Carrío, Eckes AJ, Dana dd, Minute maid, Hain, Kraft foods, Tcx, Gat foods, Summer pride, Hiwa, Citrovita, Fructa. Country wise market growth rate analysis & competition Spain In Spain, Unemployment level is high and there is an impact on disposable income level due to Government measures. As a result, price is the deciding factor. With health and price in consideration fruit and vegetable juice market share is been increasing. The retail share has been increased to 35%. The market growth rate in juice industry has gone up to 68% with very high competition amongst the companies. (Country Report. Fruits/Vegetable Juice in Spain 2011) France In France, to increase the volume share the companies are heavily investing in new product innovation and communication campaign. With intense innovation it is very difficult for the company to launch new product development and at the same time maintaining the interest of consumers while pushing the sales. The with all the marketing strategies the companies managed to increase the market growth rate up to 62% giving rise to a very high competition. (Country Report. Fruits/Vegetable Juice in France 2011) Belgium In Belgium, Fruit and Vegetable industry is very fragmented. Many companies compete with each other. In 2010, Coca Cola was the market leader but with the innovation in new flavors and new packaging, the Minute Maid Brand had shaken the root of Coca Cola. Following same strategy Friesland Foods België has introduced new brands. In fruit juice market private label companies accounted for 44% market share in Belgium. The market have reached to maturity level yet the market growth rate is 42% with high competition. (Country Report. Fruits/Vegetable Juice in Belgium 2011) Turkey With increasing awareness of health and wellness, the fruit and vegetable market share is definitely increasing but still the market growth rate is at moderate level of 37%. The competition level is also moderate. (Country Report. Fruits/Vegetable Juice in Turkey 2011) Czech Republic In Czech Republic, due to the unstable economic conditions consumer have reducing expenditure on non – essential products. When buying fruit juices, consumers prefer to buy juices with higher content of fruits. They constitute 68% of retail volume share in Czech Republic. The fruit juice market may decline in coming years since the financial crisis have negative impact on the Czech Republic which in turn, will make the consumers more price sensitive. As a result, fruit juice will lose out to aerated drinks. All the above factors lead to slow down the market growth rate to 32% with moderate competitiveness. The table below summarizes the market research on market growth rate and competition among 5 countries. Works Cited Euromonitor International (2011) Country Report. Fruits/Vegetable Juice in Spain . Web. Euromonitor International (2011) Country Report. Fruits/Vegetable Juice in France . Web. Euromonitor International (2011) Country Report. Fruits/Vegetable Juice in Belgium . Web. Euromonitor International (2011) Country Report. Fruits/Vegetable Juice in Turkey . Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Team Dysfunction and Leadership Essay “The five dysfunction of a team, a leadership fable”, gives an overview of what happens in most organizations. In the scenario presented by the characters in this book, it is clear that the attitude of a leader will always have an effect on those that he leads. The first reason why teams fail to function as expected is lack of trust. Trust is needed for cohesion within the team. In a team scenario, trust involves beliefs by team members that the actions of a specific member are well intended. This leads to openness among team members who will have no need to hide anything from the group. Lack of trust can lead to costly consequences to the team and the organization (Lencioni, 2010). A team that lacks trust among members needs to be heavily supervised since members are always reluctant to meet and to share ideas. Another sign of a dysfunctional team is the fear of conflict. Conflict can be productive in some cases. It can help to strengthen relationships as well as lead to improved decision making. However, this conflict should not be political but ideological. A good conflict should produce excellent output without leaving the conflicting parties with hard feeling towards each other. An effective team will engage in conflict during heated debates but there is no residual left after the debate since they know that the discussion is for the good of the team (Harris and Sherblom, 2010). The teams that avoid conflicts and especially ideological conflict do so with the aim of avoiding hurting the feelings of the teammates. However this mostly leads to personal attacks which cause more pain than ideological conflict. There is also the notion that conflict leads to the wastage of time. However ideological conflict saves time. A team can also fail to perform well due to lack of commitment. A functional team makes decision and moves to implement the decisions. All members work as a team in the implementation process including those whose ideas had been rejected by the team. However, dysfunctional teams lack commitment to the group and the decisions that are made by the team (Lencioni, 2011). The main reasons for this dysfunction are the need for teams to reach consensus on various issues and the requirement for certainty of issues. A lot of time is usually wasted by teams as they try to get as much information as possible with the view of making optimal decisions. Avoidance of accountability is also an indicator of a failed team. The avoidance of accountability involves team members’ unwillingness to correct negative behaviors of the fellow team members which might have negative effects on the team. Another dysfunctional characteristic of a team is the inattention of the team members to team results (Lencioni, 2011). Therefore, this means than the concern of the team members is not in the team. The five dysfunctions of a team relates to the organization theory in a number of ways. This model analyses the behavior of each member of the team and the effects of such a behavior to the team. It also looks at the collective behavior of the team as a consequence of the behavior of each member of the team. The model also looks at the roles played by the team leader in shaping the behavior of the team. This is at the heart of the organization theory (Richard, Murphy and Willmott, 2010). Managers in an organization have the role of shaping the behavior and attitude of employees toward achievement of certain goals. Failure to achieve this is always blamed on the management. This is also the case in the five dysfunctions of team which considers the failure of teams to be the responsibility of team leaders. References Daft, R., L., Murphy, D., J. and Willmott, H. (2010). Organization Theory and Design . Andover: Cengage Learning EMEA. Harris, T., E. and Sherblom, J., C. (2010). Small Group and Team Communication. Boston: Allyn & Bacon, Incorporated. Lencioni, P., M. (2010). The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable . New York: John Wiley and Sons. Lencioni, P., M. (2011). The Five Temptations of a CEO: A Leadership Fable. New York: ReadHowYouWant.com. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Galilei’s Letter to the Grand Duchess of Tuscany Essay Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Galileo Galilei 3. His Purpose for Writing 4. Works Cited Introduction Documents, written in the past, offer readers an opportunity to see how life was during different periods in history. This letter, written by Galileo Galalei, was written to the Grand Duchess Christina of Tuscany. At the time this letter was written the Grand Duchess was one of the most powerful women in Italy. She was the widow of Ferdinando I de Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany. Her son, Cosimo II de’ Medici, became Grand Duke in 1609 and was in power when this letter was written. Galileo must have believed that a communication with the Grand Duchess could influence her son and others in power. In addition, it seems that the letter may also be an open letter to the church, scientists, and philosophers of that period. The letter appears to support the coexistence of scientific exploration, discovery, and religion. Galileo implores the reader to try to understand that science can complement academia and the church. Galileo also explains the belief he has that science, exploration, academia, and the church can coexists rather than one or the other should be believed as the truth while all else is considered untrue. Galileo Galilei Galileo was a prominent philosopher and astronomer of his time. He believed that science and religion could coexist if not compliment one another. He was treated poorly by those who questioned his findings about the stars and his belief that scientific investigation and exploration could complement religion. His letter to the Grand Duchess seemed to plead for support of his theories and attempt to gain her support as a proactive ally. With her support he would gain the support of others by her approval. His Purpose for Writing Galileo wrote this document to gain the support of the Duchess and her son. He writes a good argument that asserts that he is not against the church. He was against people who misinterpreted the scriptures and used their interpretations to argue against him and his discoveries. Galileo asserts that his discoveries were made by a pious and devout Catholic and were not contradictory to the Church or the Bible: “and if not, let my book be torn and burnt, as I neither intend or pretend to gain from it any fruit that is not pious and Catholic” (Galileo Galilei, p3). Galileo’s letter to the Grand Duchess is very believable and shows Galileo as a man passionate about his belief that scientific discoveries are not made for the sole purpose of discrediting the Catholic Church or the Bible. The letter portrays Galileo as a man who truly believes that discoveries are there to be found. During the time this letter was written many believed in ‘blind faith’ or that the leadership of the Church would not mislead its congregations. The value highlighted in Galileo’s letter is that the Church and science can coexist. Galileo was a man ahead of his time. He made important discoveries while also maintaining his allegiance to the Catholic Church. Many of today’s best scientists are faithful churchgoers and passionate about science as well. Galileo would be very pleased about how science and religion have coexisted for some time. Works Cited Galilei, Galileo. (1615) Galileo Galilei: Letter to the Grand Duchess Christina of Tuscany, 1615. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
English Peasants’ Revolt of 1381 Essay Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Comparison and Trustworthiness 3. Conclusion 4. Bibliography 5. Footnotes Introduction The comparison of multiple historical texts can reveal the differences and inconsistencies in the stories discussing old events. The two primary sources, The Chronicles of Froissart: Wat Tyler’s Rebellion and “Anonimalle Chronicle: English Peasants’ Revolt 1381” present two descriptions of the Peasants’ Revolt that happened in England in 1381. In both chronicles, the central persons are presented in similar ways. However, some major parts of these events diverge from one another. It is unclear whether one source can be trusted over another – both authors mention different names and details about the situation, although the overall description of the revolt is the same in both sources. Comparison and Trustworthiness In his work, Froissart explains all actions of peasants and the royal court in detail, presenting both points of view and discussing the plans and beliefs that both sides had at the time. The author shows the “commons” as unwise and uncultured and describes their actions as incontinent. For example, Froissart discusses the idea for the rebellion, introducing one of its originators as “a foolish priest in the country of Kent called John Ball, for the which foolish words he had been three times in the bishop of Canterbury’s prison.” 1 Thus, it is made clear by the writer he does not agree with the rebels’ cause. This tone of narration suggests that the author could present his biased opinion, thus making the source untrustworthy. In Anonimalle Chronicle, the peasants are also introduced as foolish, although the author focuses on one of the leaders of the rebellion, Wat Tyler (Tighler), and his lack of manners. In this case, Wat’s actions are described as “very rude and disgusting” and improper in the presence of his king. 2 Although presenting the king as smart and the peasants as foolish, the authors of the two sources tell the story of the last meeting between Richard III and Wat Tyler with several differences. First of all, Froissart calls the mayor of London Nicholas Walworth, while in the Anonimalle Chronicle the mayor is named William Walworth. 3 4 This inconsistency makes both sources unreliable, as the reader is unable to determine which name is correct without consulting another primary source. Second, the moment of Wat Tyler’s death is also described in different ways. In Froissart’s book, Wat Tyler does not dismount his horse and is struck by the mayor after threatening the king’s squire. The rebel is killed by the mayor and the squire instantly – “the mayor drew out his sword and strake Tyler so great a stroke on the head, that he fell down at the feet of his horse … Then a squire of the king’s alighted, called John Standish, and he drew out his sword and put it into Wat Tyler’s belly, and so he died.” 5 On the other hand, the Anonimalle Chronicle’s author states that Wat Tyler was not killed by the mayor instantly, and the rebel rushed at the squire with his dagger first. “And for these words Watt tried to strike him with his dagger … the Mayor of London, William Walworth, reasoned with the said Watt for his violent behaviour … and arrested him.” 6 Then, the writer argues that the mayor was struck by Wat, for which Walworth counterattacked and wounded the rebel. Tyler escaped and was captured by the mayor in a hospital, from which he was “carried out to the middle of Smithfield, in presence of his fellows, and there beheaded.” 7 These descriptions of Wat Tyler’s death differ significantly, making both authors unreliable narrators. Conclusion The primary sources describing the Peasants’ Rebellion of 1381 have similar descriptions of peasants and royalty regarding their behavior and intelligence. However, the retelling of particular events and names differ greatly between the two works, making both authors’ narrations unreliable. It is unclear whether one author is more trustworthy than the other. Readers may need to consult a third source to see which narrative is supported by another person. Bibliography Berners, John Bourchier, Jean Froissart, William Harrison, and Thomas Malory. Chronicle and Romance: Froissart, Malory, Holinshed (The Harvard Classics Series). Edited by William Caxton and George C. Macaulay. New York: Project Gutenberg, 2004. E-book. “Medieval Sourcebook: Anonimalle Chronicle: English Peasants’ Revolt 1381.” Internet Medieval Source Book . Web. Footnotes 1. John Bourchier Berners et al., Chronicle and Romance: Froissart, Malory, Holinshed (The Harvard Classics Series), ed. William Caxton and George C. Macaulay (New York: Project Gutenberg, 2004), e-book, chap. 3. 2. “Medieval Sourcebook: Anonimalle Chronicle: English Peasants’ Revolt 1381,” Internet Medieval Source Book , Web. 3. Berners et al., Chronicle, and Romance , chap. 3. 4. “Medieval Sourcebook.” 5. Berners et al., Chronicle, and Romance , chap. 3. 6. “Medieval Sourcebook.” 7. Ibid. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Abbasid Era in the History of the Islamic World Essay The Abbasids rule could be considered one of the turning points in the history of the Islamic world. They came when the Umayyad rule was weakened by numerous inefficient Caliphs who were not able to unite the state and contributed to its further defragmentation and collapse. Additionally, Umayyads provided Arab Muslims with more powerful positions which resulted in the growth of peoples dissatisfaction and anger. In such a way, Abbasids managed to seize power by using the country’s weakness and cultivating the idea of their right to rule the Islamic state in which both Arab and Non-Arab Muslims had same rights and privileges. In general, the Abbasids rule could be divided into two central periods. The first one, the Golden Age, is the most important age in the history of Islamic states. Powerful Caliphs initiated the rise of industry and the agricultural sector to guarantee the stability and growth of their state. Moreover, they also cultivated religion, art, science, medicine, and many other significant fields of human knowledge. For this reason, Muslims managed to enrich the worlds history by numerous inventions and discoveries. The second period is characterized by the gradual decline. Abbasid rulers lost their ability to govern the land efficiently and devoted little attention to social and military aspects of their state. For this reason, having faced the Mongolian invasion, they had to move from their traditional lands and were finally destroyed by the Ottomans. However, the importance of the Abbasids rule could hardly be overestimated. Islamic nations still associate this dynasty with the age of their unification and blistering rise. Islam had turned into one of the most powerful world religions which created the basis for the further development of culture, trditions, and relations. Altogether, the Abbasids shaped their state and stipulated crucial changes in peoples mentalities. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Physical Education and Its Benefits Exploratory Essay Physical education should be an integral part of the curriculum. It is amazing that schools can compromise physical education with all its benefits. Schools in particular know the benefits of physical education in a student’s life and should be able to fight for the children’s rights. Physical exercise promotes blood circulation in the body especially in the brain and such activity works to reduce stress and improve on mood and attitude of the student as work without play makes Jack a dull boy. Moreover studies have proved that physically active children achieve more in class. The national association for sports and physical education recommend at least sixty minutes of exercise daily or for most days of the week. Statistics show that over ten million children aged between six and nineteen are overweight in the United States. Among the adolescents, the number of the over weights toady is four times than in the last decade; a very alarming rate. The dangers of being overweight are too adverse to be true. Some of the health risks associated with obesity and overweight are polygenic disorders like pre-diabetes and diabetes, heart diseases, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, apnea and many more. Additionally, nutritionists say that an obese child is likely to be an obese adult. The fact that fat cells are capable of increasing in number during childhood but in adulthood the body system can only work to fill the existing ones and not to form new ones supports this claim. Obesity is a major health concern in most of the countries and especially in the US as aforementioned. Obesity is hard to manage not mentioning its health related risks; it calls for specialist medical care, which is very expensive to a given country; therefore, nations cannot afford to cut down the programs that help to manage and/or prevent obesity. With most foods working to accumulate fats in the body and the changes in lifestyle, policy makers cannot ignore this pertinent issue. Physical exercise in schools should draw their support from family members, the society and the government. The government should set aside money for physical exercises in particular in the national budget as it does not only affect the students positively but also saves the country’s economy greatly for a ‘sick’ nation is an unproductive nation. There are other benefits associated with physical education, which should compel parents and the government to embrace the activity. Physical activity improves on the students overall confidence; for instance, performing in the field instills courage in the student. In addition, many students learn of their talents in school sports most of whom secure sporting jobs internationally which is beneficial to the individual student, the parents and the nation and this underscores the need to revive this dying yet necessary activity. Physical activity also promotes a healthy lifestyle in adulthood. Students grow into responsible citizens who influence their children positively; the best news is that this behavior passes from generation to generation hence giving rise to a healthy nation. Hygiene and sex education are part of the physical education curriculum. These work together to give birth to an all round person. Another virtue learnt is teamwork as most sports in schools are holistic and this promotes the spirit of unity in a student’s life. The factors above would be lost if the government does not intervene to save the dying physical education. Schools will not be a place of molding one into a responsible citizen, as the curriculum would be incomplete without physical education. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
International Social Welfare Issue Analysis Essay Social welfare is a form of state support directed towards all the neediest sectors of the population in order to overcome inequality. The issue of social welfare has a long history and first appeared in ancient Rome and has existed throughout human history. Today, the concept of social welfare is popular in the world. It is an important part of the so-called welfare states: France, Germany, Canada, and the Scandinavian counties – Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland. Nowadays, discussions about the advantages and disadvantages of these programs and their necessity take place in the United States and the world in general. Social welfare policy is very important to social workers. At the legislative level, it changes the lives of people, since the laws corresponding to the progressive social policy make any type of discrimination legally impossible (Segal, 2015, p. 389). However, the change in legislation does not always mean a change in people’s minds. For example, in the United States, homophobia still exists, but the positive attitude towards LGBT people continues to grow. This means that progressive changes in legislation go along with the change in attitudes of the people, but not at the same time. Unfortunately, the issues of inequality, discrimination, racism, and sexism continue to be important problems on the world’s agenda today. That is why it is very important for social workers and all socially conscious people to promote the ideas of social welfare and make people understand why it matters. This issue can be addressed with the work of advocacy groups because it directly affects the well-being and prosperity of people. The forms of struggle for the expansion of welfare policy are: voting for candidates supporting welfare programs and the promotion of the benefits of welfare policy in the media. Support of welfare programs at the international level is also very important because support for initiatives to distribute benefits from more prosperous states to less prosperous ones is also required. To conclude, the issue of social welfare is a major issue on the American and world agenda. It is important because it helps to improve the standard of life and distribute wealth from the rich to the poor. Welfare programs also support fighting against various forms of discrimination. They are crucial to social workers, that is why they should study how these programs work and promote their implantation. Reference Seagal, E. A. (2015). Empowerment Series: Social Welfare Policy and Social Programs, Enhanced . Cengage Learning. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Economics of Integrity and Profit Maximizing Analytical Essay Introduction Profit maximizing firms strive in investing on goods and services without any consideration on integrity. To most investors, integrity, being natural, is rarely accorded the attention it deserves. However, a deeper and broader approach of consumption integrity reveals that it takes integrity for customers to make any purchases. Therefore, successful companies should endeavor to shift their attention from building their brands by enhancing the company’s integrity. Bernasek asserts that integrity is shifting attention from product oriented to customer satisfaction (1). Bernasek defines integrity as a corporate asset that needs investing in. To her, integrity is the confidence that brings assurance that the products purchased are of exceptional quality, safe, and represent value for money. In addition, integrity is the foundation from which company values such as culture, norms, and accountability emanates. Unlike the goodwill that represents the monetary value of the firm, integrity represents the value that customer attaches to it products and services. Hence, by investing in integrity, the company places customer’s satisfaction at the forefront. This eventually becomes a strategy that cements customers’ royalty and enhances business going concern. It takes integrity for any customer to trust that the milk he or she purchases is safe and fit for consumption. Despite the fact that the milk company processes its products behind the veil, the consumers still trust that the milk is not contaminated and it contains all the ingredients written on the pack. What happens when the producer lacks integrity? Should customers consume contaminated milk, they will get sick, and lose trust in the company’s products. Eventually, the company revenues will decline drastically and shortly a firm may close down. Lontos outlines that it is a hectic task, and expensive venture to win-back customers, thus, it is economical to retain them in the first place (153). With the advent in technological advancement, consumers withdraw their money at the convenience of the nearest ATM. Before the bank makes the cash available in the ATM, it takes many companies to make such an easy transaction a success: the bank hires ATM engineers to fix the machines, it hires programmers to code the transaction interface, and the bank contacts internet suppliers to connect ATMs with their databases. All these firms need to portray high level of integrity for attaining customer satisfaction. Even with such a high number of parties involved, ATM users still believe that their money is safe, and the bank holds their pin details confidential. This illustration reveals that integrity compels contracting parties to place the interest of the customer first before personal gains. The success of Toyota Company helps to illustrate the relationship between integrity and economic prosperity. The company has been the world carmaker over the years, but it still manages to convince customers to use its products. Toyota Company embarks on continuous improvement of its products to meet customers’ current needs and future satisfaction. With the focus on integrity being constant, the company in return ensures continuity in cash flows. Therefore, investing in integrity as an asset not only enhances customer royalty, but it also guarantees financial payoff. Conversely, to compromise integrity paves way for customers’ transition and commences the downfall of a business empire (Bhote 79). E-commerce (Amazon and eBay) is yet another area that portrays the importance of investing in integrity as an asset. During the online shopping, the customer picks products to the shopping bag and then pays for them using his/her credit card. The customer trusts that the product he or she purchases is genuine and matches the description provided. In addition, he trusts that the seller will deliver the product according to the agreement. The customer expects the seller to deduct the stock value from the credit card. At times, the seller is at liberty to bleach the agreement and deduct more, with integrity, the seller satisfies the customer by taking the right amount. At times, firms deliberately avoid investing in integrity in order to pursue their selfish motives. For instance, large Multinational Food Companies operating in the US aim at maximizing profits at the expense the consumers’ health (Robbert). These Companies produce junk food and sell cheaply to ignorant people who do not assess the hidden costs. For example, beef cattle feed on biologically incompatible feeds to make them mature faster; this leads to E.coli bacterial effect. The bacterium affects over 75,000 people, and it also causes obesity to the children. In addition, chickens that used to mature for three months now takes 45 days to reach maturity due to chemicals injected (Food Inc). The movie (Food Inc) reveals how the multinational companies have controlled the food industries in an attempt to fight competition to protect their greedy motives (Robbert). The economical understanding of integrity perfectly relates with Adam Smith’s belief in sympathy as a regulator of self-interest. To Smith, self-interest is the motive of pursuing business while the sympathy is the capacity or the regulating force. However, striking a balance between the two is not always an easy call, since the motive often suppresses the capacity (Davenportm, 210). Integrity shows sympathy or concern for the potential users of the product. Just like in Adam Smith’s analogy of sympathy, integrity shifts attention to provision of customer satisfaction profitably. Works Cited Bernasek, Anna. The Economics of Integrity . New York: Harper Collins, 2010. Bhote, Keki, R. The Ultimate Six Sigma: Beyond Quality Excellence to Total Business Excellence. New York: Amacom, 2002. Davenport, Stewart. Friends of the Unrighteous Mammon: Northern Christians and Market Capitalism. Chicago: University of Chicago press, 2008. Lontos, Geoffrey, P. Consumer Behavior in Action: Real-Life Applications for Marketing Managers. New York: M.E. Sharpe, Inc, 2011 Robbert, Kenner. Food Inc . 2008, Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Free Speech Regulated on Social Media Essay Regulating free speech on social media is associated with objective conclusions about the consequences that uncontrolled user activity entails. According to Alkiviadou (2019), in the modern age of free access to online communication, the forms of interaction in the digital space often cause criminal actions. Cybercriminals, acting anonymously, can gain access to valuable and private information by blackmailing victims. The concept of hate speech has entered into modern life and become a phenomenon that cannot be addressed successfully due to the breadth of social media (Alkiviadou, 2019). In addition, there is no adequate control framework that would allow prosecuting those who violate the law on the Internet, despite the efforts of individual governments. As a result, Alkiviadou (2019) stresses the need to develop sustainable tools to curb free speech in today’s technological realities. Otherwise, the risks of data breaches and bullying increase dramatically. While the need to regulate social media is driven by cybercrime issues, the restrictions imposed on ordinary users run counter to democratic principles of free speech. Inobemhe (2021) cites an example of the situation in Nigeria and notes that the attempts of the local government to create restrictions on the Internet reflect the desire to limit users in their rights. Freedom of expression, whether in society or the virtual space, cannot be limited by any framework since, according to Inobemhe (2021), this is an attack on democracy. Social media is a convenient channel of interaction, and most people use it for peaceful purposes. Moreover, as Inobemhe (2021) argues, any deterrence is unlikely to bring improvement because cybercriminals can always find new ways to realize their plans. The more restrictions are imposed, the more dissatisfied people are, which is natural in modern society. Therefore, attempts to regulate freedom of speech on social media are controversial activities associated with threats to democratic values. References Alkiviadou, N. (2019). Hate speech on social media networks: Towards a regulatory framework? Information & Communications Technology Law , 28 (1), 19-35. Web. Inobemhe, K. (2021). Social media regulation in a democratic Nigeria: Challenges and implication. Media & Communication Currents , 5 (1), 71-88. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Introduction 2. Chicano and American Film Industry 3. Conclusion 4. Works Cited Introduction The film “From Prada to Nada” portrays the issue of inequality in the American film industry. Different actors play various roles in this movie. According to many Latino artists, the roles availed to members of their culture are stereotypical. Many Film Directors have always failed to select the right actors for every targeted role. This strategy has made it impossible for such actors to achieve their goals in life. This paper examines the stereotypical nature of the roles given to Mexican actors. Chicano and American Film Industry Individuals from Mexico or non-Latinos usually play the role of Latino characters in various films (Schweinitz 48). This development is notable in the film “From Prada to Nada.” To begin with, the film explains how more Latinos play different roles in the film industry. However, the most disappointing fact is that most of these Latinos play various stereotypical roles in the film. For instance, Mary and Nora play vital roles that give the film a new meaning. These two characters live in East L. A. with their family members. They eventually find it impossible to achieve their goals in this community. These characters eventually find themselves in poverty ( From Prada to Nada ). The existence of discrimination has made it impossible for many Latinos and Mexican-Americans to achieve their goals. This film also shows how different immigrants have distanced themselves from their cultural beliefs and lifestyles. For example, many Latino characters want to achieve their goals without associating with relatives. The majority of the “neighborhoods portrayed in the film are defined by crime, enmity, and fear” (Schweinitz 52). The supporting characters in the film portray the challenges affecting Latino society ( From Prada to Nada ). Some Latinos also join various gangs or engage in unacceptable practices. These Latinos have failed to realize their goals due to such problems. The portrayal of non-Latinos in the film also demoralizes every adorable Mexican actor. Stereotyping remains a critical problem in every Mexican-American film. Many actors from non-targeted cultures play the role of Mexican characters. The presentation of Camilla Belle as Nora Dominguez supports this fact. The film has several stereotypical aspects that make it unprofessional. For example, it treats Latinos as weak and inferior. Such Latinos do not get any meaningful or positive roles in the film. The film offers a negative portrayal of materialism. It is, therefore, agree that the film fails to promote the best ethical standards” (Schweinitz 64). The video clips of Dolores del Rio, Anthony Quinn, Edward James Olmos, and Cantinflas also contribute a lot to these stereotypes. These actors are not part of the Latino community, thus forcing new individuals “to play different roles that should have been availed to various Chicano actors” (Schweinitz 192). This approach ridicules every Mexican who can play such roles in a better manner. The issues mentioned above explains why every character should deal with the issues affecting many Mexican-Americans in the country ( From Prada to Nada ). This situation explains how better ideas and strategies can address the issue of discrimination. Conclusion In conclusion, the roles given to different Mexican actors are unacceptable in society. This approach “explores the positions held by different Latinos in every American society” (Schweinitz 104). A similar argument is notable in the roles given to different non-Latinos in the film “From Prada to Nada.” Stereotyping occurs when non-Latinos play various Mexican roles. The above strategy damages the entire Latino culture. Works Cited From Prada to Nada . Ex. Prod. Gary Gilbert. New York, NY. : Pantelion Films. 2011. DVD. Schweinitz, Jorg. Film and Stereotype: A Challenge for Cinema and Theory . New York, NY: Columbia University Press, 2013. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Components That Make Up a Chapel Program Essay The eight components that make up a chapel program include worship, exterior elements, counseling, activities, staff support, and religious education areas, among other components. Exterior elements give impressions when visitors visit a chapel, including the chapel’s quality of services (Green, 2016). These elements include landscaping, chapel signs, and parking sections; landscaping elements aid in creating natural loveliness for guests visiting the chapel. These elements may include flowers, trees, shrubs, earth berms, and water features. Landscaping provides defining of building entries and screening parking areas; chapels provide building entry signs on the location that gives visitors directions on the primary entrance. In addition, chapels require outside schedules that complement the building design, adjacent parking areas, and Well-lighted car park areas with satisfactory spaces for ultimate attendance events. Chapel Program There are possibilities that chaplains have short tenancies if their biblical knowledge contradicts to their significant degree spontaneity of objectives and goals. Such activities perpetuate and promote weak faith risks in Christian athletes, making some chaplains more worried about their admissions in sports inner sanctums than they are almost confronting and speaking out its evils. The authentic spiritual development of coaches and athletes can compromise the best sports chaplaincy culture in four varying ways whereby chapels have time restrictions. A chapel sermon usually lasts from 20 to 45 minutes, while church services last between 30 and 150 minutes (Linville, 2016). Therefore, chapel programs take 45 minutes or one and a half hours, depending on the particular assemblies and how the programs are done. A church program can take an hour between sermon, prayers, musing, and other church events. For instance, in Greg Linville’s “ Sports chaplaincy and North American society Strategies for winning in the clubhouse,” the author says he was recently requested to lead a chapel program where football teams played football. The author was notified only to take a maximum of 15 minutes for chapel and 5 minutes to lead the chapel programs that never took long hours (Linville, 2016). Chapels often function as an intermediary between seminars and motivation talks and seldom look like formal worship services. Chapel participants specifically seek motivation and inspiration rather than divine growth, while some attend the chapel to attain their faith-based responsibilities, including parental, friendship, or partner accountabilities. People a Chaplain Should Approach to Start a Chapel Program The chaplain should approach the people when starting sports are the athletes and coaches who could be categorized as inflexible at Christianity. Some elite participants look to have convenience faith more than conviction faith. A sum of contestants who flop to reunite their confidence and generous lives consent sport overall (Mitaxa & Butler, 2016). The captivating of tall profile players and trainers to Jesus for the determination of conveying a podium for them to declare the word of God has been an eye of North American athletic chaplaincy departments. While on surfaces, this may appear like a moral objective. The authenticity of its significance similarly blemishes it. Nevertheless, elite contestants who vocally decree Christ are more dedicated to accomplishment in-game than their confidence. They also lack the ground theologically and psychologically and often bomb to animate out their trust. They may find themselves uncovered theologically but then again individually and emotionally uncertain and as soon as their ethical slips become obverse page news (Mitaxa & Butler, 2016). Instead of supporting evangelism, such proceedings can harm and disrupt gospel actions. More prominently, they may hurt the trust of the persons concerned. References Green D. (2016). Sports chaplaincy at the Olympics and Paralympics: Reflections on London 2012. In A. Parker et al. (Eds.), Sports chaplaincy (pp. 55-67). Routledge. Linville G. (2016). Sports chaplaincy and North American society: Strategies for winning in the club house. In A. Parker et al. (Eds.), Sports chaplaincy (pp. 32-43). Routledge. Mitaxa N., & Butler C. (2016). Sports Chaplaincy Australia. In A. Parker et al. (Eds.), Sports chaplaincy (pp. 44-55). Routledge. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Crime and Punishment in Texas Essay The rate of crime in Texas has reduced dramatically for the last ten years. Statistics show that the crime rate in Texas is the lowest since 1974; the murder rate and burglary rate are the lowest since 1966 and 1968, respectively. The decline reflects an improvement in public safety, and therefore Texans should feel satisfied by this achievement though despite having some relief, a problem still remains. The death penalty has also decreased, and cases reported to the police also have reduced. The reduction in the overall crime rate is due to the fact that a number of serious crimes are not reported to the police as opposed to other states. “Many people are more attracted to crime because they believe the benefits of crime outweigh the costs, and this has led to increasing in crime rate.”(Mickey M. 1998). As for the number of prisoners, Texas has the highest number of them, and this is due to the fact that it is one of the states with the highest population in the United States. The Criminal justice system of Texas came up with a strategy whereby they outline the expected punishments for different crimes. “The assessments of expected punishment among the criminals vary widely, and this is because they do not have concrete information about imprisonment and conviction.”(Mickey M. 1998). As for the matter of execution, Texas has more than any other state. Texas is the second-largest state as far as population is concerned, and this has contributed heavily to the increase in the number of executions. However, Texas is not the leading state in terms of execution for Oklahoma is ahead of Texas, and therefore the perception that Texas has more execution does not hold any water. The criminal justice system of Texas is working though it is not working for all Texans equally. One of the reasons why the system is working is that “Texas’s appellate judges are elected by the people of the state, not appointed by another authority. Texas’s political tone is generally conservative; therefore judges might find it advantageous to take a tough stance on crime to ensure reelection; critics also argue that the quality of these elected judges is not as high as those appointed in other states.” (William W 2007) Capital cases in Texas are dealt with by the appointed attorneys who are regarded not to be qualified. There are cases whereby the accused may be in financial problems and cannot afford to hire their own lawyers. These individuals go for court-appointed lawyers, and in some cases, they do not possess the necessary skills and techniques to tackle the case. A good example is that Calvin Burdine hired a lawyer to represent him on his case, and the fellow fell asleep so many times during the trial. This resulted in contentious issues whether the lawyer needs to be awake during the trial or he missed some vital points during the case process. It is because of this reason that several appeals followed, and this made the case go for retrial. However, the system has done a lot to improve the image of the system though so many people have suffered under the past regime of incompetent lawyers and judges. To summarize, crime and punishment have been reduced, and this is because of the policies implemented by the criminal justice system, which aims to benefit all Texans. The system was strongly against the death penalty and how crime can be reduced. Work Cited Mickey Manson. Crime and Punishment in Texas. New York: Harvard University Press. 1998. William Adolphus Wheeler. An Explanatory and Pronouncing Dictionary of the Noted Names of Fiction. New York: Harvard University Press. 2007. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The God of Love in Greek & Roman Mythology Essay Love is central to many ancient myths, as it is generally described as an extremely powerful force that can help gods and mortals to overcome various hardships, find peace of mind, settle down, and live happily with their loved ones. Eros is the Greek god of love, whose Roman equivalent is Cupid. There are various contradicting myths concerning the origins of Eros, his supernatural powers, and his place in the hierarchy of gods. Nevertheless, the deity was very popular, as it was worshiped in most ancient greek city-states and later in Ancient Rome. Originally, Eros was considered to be one of the primordial gods, alongside Gaia, Tartarus, Erebus, Hemera, and Nyx. Parmenides, one of the pre-Socratic philosophers, even claims that Eros was the first god to ever exist. Nevertheless, the first generation of gods was typically not given human characteristics. Therefore, when a growing need to describe the formation and the power of love in detail became obvious, Eros was granted a different biography that could allow for the description of his own feelings and passion. That is why in later myths, he is described as the son of Aphrodite and Ares. Moreover, over time the love story of Eros and Psyche became one of the most admired myths in both Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome. Ancient Greeks realized that love was an umbrella term for a wide range of strong feelings, from simple pleasure to interpersonal affection and virtue. Therefore, the fact that numerous stories featuring Eros contradict each other proves that the ancient Greeks and the ancient Romans had difficulties defining it. The variety of Eros’s biographies helps realize the evolution of the concept from one of the most vigorous powers that create the world to a strong, beautiful emotion that makes human souls so beautiful. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The American Declaration of Independence Essay ‘The Declaration of Independence’ is one of the importance documents in the history of America as it has laid a foundation to a better constitution (Maddern 534). This paper held the records of all the injustices that occurred to the citizens at the hands of the Great Britain rulers. Therefore, a union known as Second Continental Congress formed a committee to air their grievances through an official statement from one of their members, Thomas Jefferson. This text further, explained the demands of the group, for instance, the need for natural or legal rights which included the right for Revolution (Anderson 31). Since then, this testimonial has become an essential pillar in the push for human rights. On the Declaration, Thomas Jefferson argued that the sole purpose of the text was not to discover new laws or arguments that have not been ascertained before by any other person, but rather bring a justification to the need for independence from the ruling party. The distinctive feature of his argument is the fact that there was the lack of respect from the rulers resulting in the violation of both political and economic rights. On the contrary, he sees this action as a refusal to “assent” to the fundamental standards of human dignity that could facilitate a better relationship and overall development, “We hold these truths to be sacred and undeniable… ” (Parkinson 44).According to him, this lack of respect will not disappear unless a rebellion takes place to facilitate the activation of their rights as colonialists. Today, the race issue has made the Declaration less relevant. The rampant problem of racism is a significant hindrance ‘to acting together for all’ as Jefferson intent ended in his statement of having typical “civil religion.”It is quite the opposite as different people have grown overly suspicious of others depending on their races. Besides, the authority of the federal government is also a contributor to reducing the text’s relevance. In fact, a comprehensible constitution has been designed to be followed especially for issues concerning the human rights. The law provides clear procedures to pursue such matters instead of resulting to revolution, failure to which will lead to the breach of the Constitution (Steele 1). In the contemporary American several liberties are at stake. One such freedom is right to live especially among the young black Americans. It is a growing concern as the black youths are shot dead by people in the authority due to the increasing suspicion. In fact, they are considered a security threat, unlike their white American counterparts. The other liberty that is at risk is the right to equal treatment under the law. The violation of this right is seen to continuously occur due to the extensive racism. Most of the people of color have been heard complaining of unequal treatment or discriminated against in particular by the authority. This issue also results in divided decisions in government as some people struggle to prove to be better than others (Sargent 429). From the above explanations, it quite evident that the argument in ‘The Declaration of Independence’ contributed significantly to American history of human rights (Ray 32). However, in current contemporary society, the text loses its relevancy due to the development of other better ways of solving disputes through the stipulated constitution. Nonetheless, some liberties are at stake even in the light of the constitution as noted above. Works Cited Anderson, Owen. “Thomas Jefferson and Thomas Paine.” Self-Evident Truths in American Law The Declaration of Independence and God (n.d.): 31-49. Web. Maddern, Stacy Warner. “Thomas Jefferson: The Declaration of Independence – By Michael Hardt.” WorkingUSA 11.4 (2008): 534-36. Web. Parkinson, Robert G. “The Declaration of Independence.” A Companion to Thomas Jefferson Cogliano/A Companion to Thomas Jefferson (2012): 44-59. Web. Ray, Kristofer. “Thomas Jefferson and A Summary View of the Rights of British North America.” A Companion to Thomas Jefferson Cogliano/A Companion to Thomas Jefferson (2012): 32-43. Web. Sargent, Daniel. “Ark of the Liberties: America and the World – By Ted Widmer.” Presidential Studies Quarterly 42.2 (2012): 429-30. Web. Steele, Brian. “Jefferson’s America.” Thomas Jefferson and American Nationhood (n.d.): 1-10. Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
It was established in 1979 by the United States Department of Health and Human Services to develop mechanisms for increasing quality of life and bringing awareness and understanding. Its framework covers over 1200 objectives relating to key public health areas ( Comprehensive laboratory services survey summary data report, 2016 ). Primary goals are set every decade to work out effective plans on the implementation of modern healthcare strategies in the activities of American health organizations and services. Since the establishment of the initiative, significant progress has been tracked in improving health and well-being in the USA. As a new health educator, I plan to consider strategies formulated by Healthy People 2020 in setting the curriculum guidelines for students. A better understanding of problems emerging in the healthcare sphere may be achieved by analysis of recent researches conducted within its framework. Additionally, I may use online tools and resources established by Healthy People 2020 to raise public awareness concerning health issues. These resources are described in more detail below in this paper. The evidence-Based Resources database available on the Healthy People official site provides a wide range of materials derived from surveys and researches conducted in the sphere of health care since 2000. Therefore, it may be used by health educators as a source of credible data needed to develop an objective vision of a current situation in the public health area. All materials are easily accessible which allows us to use them in the educational process ( Who’s leading the leading health indicators? 2019). Interactive Data Search Tool helps to find publications on a specific topic using different filters, such as topic area, year of publication, or data source. These publications may be used as sources for research projects and papers. Healthy People eLearning platform helps students and health educators to get access to case studies on a broad range of healthcare issues. Also, during the study process, public health educators can use the archive of webinars and video lessons available on the site as well as materials from events organized by Healthy People ( Healthy People 2020 leading health indicators: Progress update, 2019) . Regularly, Healthy People presents infographics demonstrating progress achieved toward the accomplishment of its plans and strategies. Healthy People strives to maximize innovative collaboration between different private and public agencies to combine efforts in assessing the needs of the community. With this regard, public health educators may encourage people to participate in initiatives supported by Healthy People ( Comprehensive laboratory services survey summary data report , 2016). A program for effective interventions (MAP-IT) was created for mobilizing potential partners in the sphere of health care. It is available on the website with all the related instructions and sources for those who want to contribute to public health enhancement using mechanisms of efficient communication. Another useful resource introduced by Healthy People is Content Syndication. It was established by The Health and Human Services Administration. This instrument allows users to share content from the website to other online platforms in a very simple way. The information is updated automatically via a special widget that has to be added to a site, so no extra time is needed to monitor and update information. It is possible to select which data is to be integrated and easily match it with the frame of the site. Learning Modules project was established to cover a wide range of topics concerning such healthcare issues as injury and violence prevention, emergency preparedness, access to health services, and many others ( Healthy People 2020 leading health indicators: Progress update, 2019). It is an instrument for integrating the Healthy People initiative into public health education. Lectures are given by highly professional health care experts. Modules include student assessments, recommended readings, and supplemental learning resources. They can be learned as a course or separately to get the required information on a specific subject. Progress achieved in corresponding Healthy People 2020 objectives may be evaluated with the use of data provided on its website. For example, to analyze such Leading Health Indicators as environmental health, it would be useful to look into a midcourse review that gives a snapshot of achievements made in the first half of the decade. Also, many related documents may be found via the Evidence-Based Resources database. It contains all the reports, research papers, and programs regarding such critical issues of environmental health as air pollution, water quality, waste management ( Healthy People 2020 leading health indicators: Environmental quality, 2019). Interactive infographics and presentations are also presented on the site. Additional information on this topic may be provided by health care experts in lectures within the frame of the Learning Modules project. The progress achieved within the past decade indicates that the activity of Healthy People 2020 makes a significant contribution to the enhancement of life quality of the nation. This platform provides health educators with all the tools and resources required to guarantee the effectiveness of their work. I plan to use suggested instruments for developing my proficiency as well as for increasing public awareness of the determinants of health. References Comprehensive laboratory services survey summary data report . (2016). Web. Healthy People 2020 leading health indicators: Environmental quality. (2019). Web. Healthy People 2020 leading health indicators: Progress update . (2019). Web. Who’s leading the leading health indicators? (2019). Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Clipper Navigation Transportation Company’s Services Case Study Clipper Navigation is a transportation company that offers high-quality, low-cost services. Since it is in the transportation industry, it mainly provides services, while products fill a secondary role. However, services offered by the company extend beyond the expected necessary minimum and encompass tourism and the premium transportation segment. The former is ensured by the presence of observation areas and a sundeck aboard the ferries along with the opportunity of orca watching, while the latter is due to unprecedented speed for the industry. The products offered by the company include beverages and food served during the trip as well as likely souvenirs. Considering the offers made possible as a result of cooperation with other transportation businesses and tourist firms, it is possible to characterize the combination of products and services supplied by Clipper Navigation as of higher contingency than sufficient for its industry sector. The horizontal partners of Clipper Navigation might provide transportation services that compete with those offered by Victoria Clipper ferries. More specifically, these can include marine transportation services, land-based transport, and air travel companies operating on the same or similar routes to those covered by Clipper Navigation. Other possible horizontal partners are tourist businesses that offer amusement trips, whale watching tours, and routes to sightseeing locations. The possible services of vertical partners are more diverse. First, these include transportation that goes beyond the capabilities of Clipper Navigation, e.g., railway companies and the aviation industry, which operate on a scale unreachable for ferries. The possibility to file a reservation for a route that aligns with the customer’s schedule is a huge advantage for the company as it increases customer satisfaction. Next, organizations that can provide information on seasonal whale behavior (e.g., seasonal changes) and predict their presence in the area of operation might be useful partners. Any food or beverage served on board the ferry is a product that likely comes from a vertical partner. Likewise, souvenirs and memorabilia, which often accompany tourist amusement trips, might come from such a source. However, the most notable service that originates from a vertical partnership is the opportunity to book a ticket for a specific holiday tour to the mountains or a ski resort. As can be seen from the classification, the two types of services have an essential difference. Services from horizontal partners reside within the same business sector as those of Clipper Navigation, while vertical partners are either suppliers of crucial components for the business or operate in marginal fields. In other words, the latter are not in competition with the company. Clipper Navigation’s internal characteristics that contribute most to flexibility are the speed of their ferries and the price of services. These satisfy the most basic of customer demands—the need for effective and fast transportation at low cost—and contribute to monetary flexibility. Reliability of schedules is another trait that is in high regard and, combined with the number of vessels, ensures high logistics flexibility. However, the most important feature is the company’s coordination with other transportation and tourist services, which results in product and service combination flexibility and arguably adds the most value to its services. Therefore, it requires operational activities on the part of the administrative department to ensure the precision and reliability of booking services. This segment can be improved by introducing visual aids for the customers to streamline the booking process and make it more comfortable. Since the service is in high demand among business travelers, it would also be beneficial to seek partnership with airlines that provide high-speed business-class flights to further improve the combination flexibility. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Basic Death Notification Procedures 2. Death Notifications and the Media 3. Death Notifications for Police Officers 4. Conclusions 5. References Delivering death notifications is considered to be among the most dreaded and unpleasant tasks given to a police officer. When receiving word about a deceased friend, loved one, or a family member, the survivors tend to express shock and sorrow (Dryden-Edwards, 2015). The police have several guidelines and rules in place that address this subject. When delivering bad news, it is important to minimize the feelings of anger and pain. This paper is dedicated to discussing the process of death notifications, explaining why the immediate relatives must informed before the media, and analyzing the differences between notifications for a police officer and a civilian. Basic Death Notification Procedures When tasked with delivering a death notification, there are several indispensable concepts that every officer and counselor must know. These concepts are: * Delivering death notification in person. It is very important to surround the surviving relatives with compassion and understanding during the initial shock that follows the dreadful news (Darren, 2014). Sending a letter or making a telephone call must be avoided, as it will not provide any support to the survivors. This is why arranging a meeting in person is an indispensable procedure, even if the surviving family members live very far away. * Delivering the news in time and with certainty. The notifiers must be completely certain that there was no mistake in identifying the deceased person, prior to delivering the bad news (Page, 2010). There were numerous incidents of death notifications delivered to wrong families ( Police tell wrong family about death, 2014). The psychological impact of such wrongful news can be devastating and cause long-term trauma. * Working in pairs. Most notifiers approach the survivors in pairs, and for a very good reason. One might never know what the reaction to the news would be. The initial shock from the notification might induce a catatonic state (Brasic, 2016), which would require urgent medical assistance. At least two persons are required to provide adequate and timely assistance (Darren, 2014). * Delivering the news in plain language. The message must be related directly, to avoid possible misunderstandings. It is recommended to avoid delivering the notification at the doorstep (Darren, 2014). Instead, the officer must request to come in and prepare the survivors for the news they are about to receive. * Providing compassion. The purpose of delivering death notifications in person is to provide compassion (Darren, 2014). The notifiers must support the survivors in any way they can. It is important to avoid cliché words and phrases, however, as nobody finds them helpful. Religious rhetoric is potentially harmful. * Follow-up measures. Many survivors feel abandoned and confused after receiving death notifications (Darren, 2014). It is very important to call them the next day and inquire about how they feel. In addition, the notifiers must provide all necessary information about the cause of death, help retrieve any personal possessions and offer an advisor to help with funeral arrangements. Death Notifications and the Media While publishing obituaries is a common practice in many western countries, it is strictly forbidden to spread the news through the media until all direct relatives and close friends have been informed (Darren, 2014). There is a good reason for that. If the media is allowed to publish information about a person’s death, it is very likely that the relatives would hear it prior to being contacted by the notifiers in person. This is very dangerous, as the surviving family members are forced to confront the issue with no preparation, counseling, or psychological padding. This can cause grievous and long-lasting psychological traumas, as the surviving family will remember that moment for the rest of their lives. Should the death notification prove to be erroneous, it would be much harder to reverse the damage (Darren, 2014). Death Notifications for Police Officers While the standard protocol for death notifications is not much different between a civilian and a police officer, the process is much more thorough. The reasons for that are simple – most police officers who die in the line of duty suffer violent deaths, which is much different from dying of old age or in an accident. When a police officer dies, one of the notifiers has to be the unit commander, and the other one – a professional counselor or a chaplain ( Line-of-duty police death notifications, 2010). The police department tends to have specific plans in place for line-of-duty police death notifications. Aside from notifying relatives and family, the news is also brought to the “police family” – friends, colleagues, and co-workers of the deceased officer. Counseling at this stage is important, as deaths have a great impact on morale and discipline of an entire police unit ( Line-of-duty police death notifications, 2010). Conclusions It is very hard to plan for the unthinkable. At the same time, we are all human, and experiencing grief from losing our loved ones is an inevitable part of our lives. I believe that it is important to know what to do in such situations, to provide compassion and understanding. At the same time, I believe that families of the police officers who died in the line of duty are entitled to extra support and care. Violent deaths are sudden, bloody, and unexpected, which makes them even harder for the surviving family members and friends to accept. References Brasic, J.R. (2016). Catatonia . Web. Darren, D. (2014). Death notifications . Web. Dryden-Edwards, R. (2015). Grief: Loss of a loved one . Web. Line-of-duty police death notifications . (2010). Web. Page, D. (2010). Death notification: breaking the bad news . Web. Police tell wrong family about death of son – who then opens the door . (2014). Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Role of NGOs in Global Governance Essay The Purpose of the International NGO/CBO Summit Non Governmental organization forms the primary base in the implementation and promoting equity and representing the welfare of the ordinary citizens in the society. The International NGO/CBO summit which was held in March 2007 between the 26th and the 30th in New York was aimed at expanding the knowledge on the emerging issues affecting Non-Governmental Organizations and the limitations that they face in the course of carrying out their mandate. The presence of various NGOs in the summit indicated the commitment of the NGOs to voice their concerns concerning the people they represent. Most of the NGOs in the summit are sponsored according to the role they play in their respective area of operation. The importance of the presence of the NGOs is that they are the voice of those they represent. (Welch 2001) Problem Discussed at the Summit The summit addressed various issues in the modern world that shape the role of NGOs. It has occurred that some NGOs are perceived to overstep their mandate by either diverting from their primary objectives or taking sides. One accomplishment of the NGOs is that in recent times, they have addressed various issues such as environmental concerns and education a practice that has led to a more responsibility-oriented society (Rugendyke 2007). NGOs acts as role models hence their charitable practices influence other people to do likewise. Some of the problems that emerged are such government interference where some government has the wrong perception in the mandate of the NGO. Other problems include financial constraints and a lack of skilled personnel to carry out various practices. In global governance, the NGOs can participate in community development practices to try and improve the living standards of the people. This can occur from the simple process of maintenance to facilitating systems that guide the code of conduct of the local society concerning their environment. To operate effectively, NGOs need technical and moral support from the individual governments hence it’s up to the government to play its part in assisting a development revolution brought by NGOs. NGOs are the voice of the people in an environment where human rights may be violated (Donnelly 2007). Since the operations of most NGOs are at a local level, The NGOs understand the local people better hence can communicate to the government on issues affecting the local community. This, however, should not lead to political interference a move that would lead the people to have less trust in NGOs. The NGOs hence should facilitate the flow of information between the people and the government in the best way possible. In global governance, NGOs are required to be transparent and exhibit the highest level of professionalism. Some NGOs are found to lack credibility in the course of carrying out their mandate. Regarding the amount of trust the local people bestow on these organizations, it is highly unethical for the NGOs to either overstep their mandate or underrepresent the same people they claim to represent (Bhose 2003). The key thing in this is that NGOs should be neutral and engage in fair practices that do not exhibit any bias or injustice whatsoever. References Bhose J.S. (2003) NGOs and Rural Development, New York: Concept Publishing Company. Donnelly J, (2007), International Human Rights, New York: Westview Press. Rugendyke, B. (2007), NGOs as Advocates for Development in a Globalizing World, New York: Taylor & Francis. Welch, C.E. (2001), NGOs and Human Rights: promise and Performance, New York: University of Pennsylvania Press. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Debit and Credit in Accounting Essay Accounting is necessary for the operation of the enterprise because it allows receiving income from the work of the company, record all receipts of funds, expenses. Accounting data is constantly changing depending on the operation of the enterprise. The concepts of debit and credit are among the main ones in accounting. Credit and debit-performance indicators of the enterprise allow checking the company’s stability and profitability. Proper accounting documentation is essential, first of all, for the organization itself. Debit is the arrival of funds, the profit of the company. The sources of income can be different: sales of products, provision of services, payments of funds by creditors. By debiting the active balance sheet accounts, meaning the company’s asset registration accounts, assets at the beginning of the reporting period, and their increase during the reporting period are indicated. For example, when funds are credited to the current account, the received amount is reflected in the account debit. On the debit of the passive balance sheet accounts, meaning the accounts of the registration of the enterprise sources, a decrease in the sources of funds is reflected. For example, if an enterprise receives a loss based on the results of the reporting period, the amount of the loss is reflected in the debit. Credit describes an item of expenditure and includes the payment of salaries to employees, the cost of purchasing products and their transportation, taxes and various fees, and raw materials for production. The loan to the active balance sheet accounts reflects a decrease in the corresponding assets. For example, when paying from a checking account, the payment is reflected on the account credit. For the credit of passive accounts, the availability of the company’s sources of funds at the beginning of the reporting period and their increase during the reporting period are indicated. For example, the profit received by the enterprise at the end of the reporting period is reflected on the credit of the account, thereby increasing the sources of funds of the enterprise. In conclusion, in order to determine in which case the credit and debit rise or fall, it needs to correctly determine what was spent or whether the funds were earned. It is necessary to monitor the expenses and income of the company carefully and ensure that the debit and credit converge in the amounts for the reporting period. This is necessary to assess how the company is growing financially or its existence is not profitable. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
How the Globalization Can Be Achieved Nowadays? Essay Just as Kofi Annan says that every crisis in our world has an opportunity, I also believe that even in our modern world the forces of multilateralism, globalization and global cooperation is possible to a certain extent. One nation alone cannot control globalization and thus, it too needs others to cooperate so that everyone can benefit from globalization, equally. Today the whole world is facing a huge depression and we have already seen instances of international cooperation among various nations for fighting against this crunch. It is also my opinion that until and unless multilateralism is implemented, prosperity, welfare, security, opportunity and stability for all cannot be guaranteed and overall inequality of wealth among the nations cannot be properly tackled. Thus, if the richer countries agree to provide aids to the poorer ones and if the developing countries realize that without globalization, world cooperation and multilateralism they will be affected the most, globalization, which was once a dream, is certainly possible. If our world leaders take the initiatives by placing standards and goals for the wealthy and developed countries so that they provide development aids to cut down global poverty, changes can be brought about in developing countries too. I think that globalization can be achieved by spreading political, economic and social freedom all over the world and by lowering limitations on the dissemination of information among the various nations. According to me, globalization is also possible if the countries increase their mutuality and interrelation by integrating their economies for the betterment of the whole world. Although this seems to be almost impossible, the world leaders have to look beyond their borders and increase their participation in our global economy. Globalization, world cooperation and multilateralism are not only affecting our present state but are also shaping the future of our world. People of the world will not benefit until and unless there is cooperation and collaborative efforts all over the world. We need to have a global civilization that respects multiculturalism and each other. I think that the only way a world of globalization, multilateralism and global cooperation can be achieved is if all the nations together put their hands together in setting goals for aids and prioritize them, mobilize their funds and develop, sponsor and promote the mechanisms needed for increasing international cooperation. The countries also need to set up close inspections to observe their public health and also strengthen their human resource and institutional resource and bring about developments in their technical fields. I feel that although globalization, multilateralism and world cooperation may seem to be both inevitable yet a highly desirable force in our changing world today only if the countries realize the bane these forces can bring about will they be able to implement them worldwide. This world will never be able to obtain globalization, multilateralism, or global cooperation simply by reducing population rates, by improving their infant mortality rates, or by minimizing the poverty rates. I think that we can achieve globalization if the people of the nations feel empowered so that they are able to speak out their concerns and as a result affect the decisions made for them. If people understand that globalization will have positive and beneficial results for them, it will help in its implementation and their development and growth. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Proctor and Gamble’s Organization 2005 Program Case Study Introduction Proctor and Gamble’s (P&G) Organization 2005 was envisaged in being a series of far reaching initiatives in order to achieve a faster growth for the company. The initiatives required wide ranging modifications in the work culture, processes, and organizational structure so as to enable employees to make further efforts in speeding up the process of innovations. Organization 2005 also aimed at leveraging the global presence of P&G as also to enhance profits and sales by launching a range of new products, by shutting down unviable manufacturing facilities and cutting down on jobs. Such initiatives were headed by Durk Jager, CEO of P&G who had assumed the office in 1999. Over a period of six years, these efforts were to cost Proctor and Gamble $1.9 billion. Jager was confident that fast track restructuring was imperative for the creation of innovative expansion opportunities for Proctor and Gamble, and while introducing the new programs he had conveyed his confidence to analysts in this regard. Jager’s new policy pertained to creating an environment which would produce plans and goals that were bolder in bringing about big innovations with better speed. He redesigned the system of rewards for employees in order to strengthen the connection between results and compensation. Main body The Organization 2005 program entailed the reorganization of the Global Business Units and establishing of eight regions for Marketing Development Organizations. The Global Business Services of P&G were consolidated in order to have functions such as HR, accounts, IT and order management directly under the corporate organization. Most of the corporate employees were shifted to the new units and the company redesigned its training programs to bring better results from employees. However despite his best efforts, Jager fumbled and was not able to carry forward the plan effectively and he resigned. The news sent the company’s stocks tumbling down to levels that were the lowest since the mid 1990s. He was succeeded by Lafley who seemed to be on the right track after taking over the mantle, but it still remains to see whether the moves made by him will pay off for Proctor and Gamble. The prime reason for Jager’s failure was that he exerted extra pressure on the P&G executives to quickly bring the company products into the market. Jager’s acquisition of American Home Products and Warner-Lambert proved to be failures and his plans proved to be very aggressive due to the reckless introduction of new products. Managers were not appreciative of his style of confrontation and there was increasing disenchantment amongst them. Organization 2005 was to be completed in June 2003, and after the removal of Jager, Lafley had changed the company’s focus towards enhancing the market share of its bigger brands in markets that were already developed. It would be advisable for Lafley to first convince his people in detail about the objectives of the program. He needs to bring about better discipline amongst executives and managers and to organize their working environment into a systematic team work so as to bring about synergy and better performance. His biggest challenge is to generate growth for the company by introducing the company’s products in new markets so as to grab a larger chunk of the market share especially in the developing economies. This is so because Proctor and Gamble already has a dominating market presence in the mature markets. At this stage when so much has already been done in terms of investment and efforts, Lafley cannot revert to the previous organizational structure but has to improve upon the present circumstances within P&G to bring about a positive turn around. Organization 2005 entailed huge costs for P&G, and Lafley will have to strike a balance between making the best of the remaining staff and the reduced resources available to meet the given targets. By restructuring the management team he can improve upon the operations of P&G and thus increase profitability. He needs to also bring reforms by way of bringing in an efficient supply chain management so as to streamline the cost structure to reduce manufacturing costs and overheads. Conclusion It becomes more important for Lafley to boost employee morale in view of the policy of large scale retrenchment adopted by Jager. New employee rewards programs have to be initiated so as to enhance trust of the organization in the view point of company staff. He will have to make full use of the usual retirements and attritions, voluntary separations, job retraining, relocations and hiring reductions. A good idea for Lafley will be to offer existing employees additional responsibilities and to provide them training and lucrative incentives in learning new skills. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The annual incidence is between 20 and 50 cases per 100.000 persons (Smith, 2016). Currently, Grave’s disease is considered a hereditary autoimmune disease that is transmitted by a multifactorial (polygenic) route. The disease is most common among women, epidemiological and environmental factors have a significant influence (Weetman, 2000). The factors provoking the development of the disease include mental trauma, nervous strain, age-related changes in the activity of the endocrine glands, infectious and inflammatory diseases, craniocerebral trauma, disease of the nasopharynx. Characteristic symptoms of Grave’s disease are hyperthyroidism, goiter, and exophthalmos (bulging eyes). Due to the variety of functions of thyroid hormones, the disease has many clinical manifestations including cardiac, endocrine, dermatological, neurological, gastrointestinal, ophthalmological, and dental pathologies (Weetman, 2000). Thyrotoxic crisis poses a particular danger to life, with the development of the disease, severe damage to the heart, liver, and gonads develops. Although the disease requires clinical and laboratory confirmation, signs of ophthalmopathy or dermopathy are enough to confirm the diagnosis in a patient with diffuse goiter and hyperthyroidism (Weetman, 2000). However, for an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to have biochemical abnormalities as well as characteristic clinical features. Various methods are used to treat Grave’s disease, depending on the causes and conditions. Traditional medical treatment involves antithyroid drugs, which results in a remission process in 40-50% of patients (Smith, 2016). Radioiodine therapy is also used, which allows patients to recover from the symptoms of the disease within weeks. Indications for surgical treatment are allergic reactions or a persistent decrease in leukocytes, large goiter, and heart rhythm disturbances. The operation is performed only when the state of drug compensation is reached, since otherwise, a thyrotoxic crisis may develop in the early postoperative period. With adequate and timely treatment, the prognosis is favorable, yet, there is a chance of hypothyroidism development after surgical treatment. References Smith, T. (2016). Grave’s disease. The New England Journal of Medicine, 375 (16), 1552-1565. Web. Weetman, A. (2000). Grave’s disease. The New England Journal of Medicine, 343 (17), 1236-1248. Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Behavioral Observation in the Two Cultural Set-Ups Essay Table of Contents 1. Description of the behavior observational setting 2. Summary of the observations made 3. Data analysis and Interpretation 4. Works Cited Sociology is a discipline that studies society and analyzes the distinctions between different layers of the society arising due to numerous factors like political, economic, cultural, etc. In society, there are populations with cultures and sub-cultures of their own, which happens to be a distinguishing feature for them. In order to mark these differences out, one needs to spend some quality time observing and recording those observations to come to a valid conclusion. The quantitative means to analyze and verify any observation gives it solid support to be projected as a theory, at least in a social setting, but scientifically. In this brief research report, the objective is to describe the class setting where the observation those American students tend to ask more questions than Asian students and to scientifically interpret the behavioral differences in the two cultural set-ups. Randy Hodson’s homepage on the OSU website has been used as a reference to prepare this report. Description of the behavior observational setting The task assigned needed to observe sets of students in various classes at different timings, and closely note down the observations, in order to come to any inference. The observational time span was Monday to Friday in a week and involved spending time in different class sessions of various subjects like sociology, physics, biochemistry, cosmology, and Economics. The class sessions chosen were generally of 2-hour duration with a 10-minute break in between the two sub-sessions. The class strength varied in different subjects with respect to Americans, Asians, and others. For the purpose of this social experiment, the others would include the students of all other races combined other than Americans and Asians. Summary of the observations made The experiment ran from Monday to Friday in a week and the following observations were made with respect to the subjects, Americans, Asians, the others and the number of questions asked during the class sessions by each of these categories. In Sociology class (Monday), a total of 65 students attended, out of which Americans, Asians and the others were respectively, 38, 20 and 7. In Physics class (Tuesday), a total of 72 students attended, out of which Americans, Asians and the others were respectively, 36, 26 and 10. In the Biochemistry class (Wednesday), a total of 82 students attended, out of which Americans, Asians and the others were respectively, 44, 28 and 10. In Cosmology class (Thursday), a total of 60 students attended, out of which Americans, Asians and the others were respectively, 33, 21 and 6. In Economics class (Friday), a total of 70 students attended, out of which Americans, Asians and the others were respectively, 37, 25 and 8. Subjects Americans Asians Others Total Sociology 17(0.45) 06(0.30) 02 25 Physics 18(0.50) 09(0.35) 02 29 Biochemistry 26(0.59) 11(0.39) 03 40 Cosmology 20(0.61) 10(0.48) 02 32 Economics 21(0.58) 08(0.32) 02 31 The table above depicts subjects, races and the no. of questions asked in each category. The figures in the bracket depict the percent of questions asked by students of a race. Note that in the table, the data (not in brackets) mean that a single student belonging to a race may ask many questions. For example, 17/38= 0.45, 6/20= 0.30, etc. Data analysis and Interpretation There are two ways to look at data. One with respect to races and the number of questions asked. This is quite clear from the table that American students have asked the bulk of the questions, but we do need to look at the percentage of students of different races asking the questions in the class. This can be obtained by combining the data sets. This analysis will differentiate the cultural differences as to why Americans tend to be more questioning. It’s all about how society evolves, and which all factors influence the process. The American society is an open society that encourages questioning, while the Asian society does not. This is reflected in the students’ behavior in the classes. While American students may go to the extent of discussing and debating things, Asians prefer to be low and perhaps they would have asked questions if it was in writing than verbal. The American society has allowed the intermingling process from the beginning, but the Asian societies have been more behaviorally isolated and this reflects too in their actions. The American society encourages aggressiveness in the thought process, and the seniors value those ideas. But on the other hand, Asian societies have been found to be timider as the elder family members and even teachers never prompted to encourage the thought process to flow uninhibitedly, and in fact, sometimes it goes totally opposed, and at other times completely ignored. American students are more vocal about what they believe. To conclude, one can say that there are cultural differences between Americans and Asians, and this is reflected in their questioning behavioral pattern, discussions and debates in a classroom setting and this may not be the case in the majority of Asian students. Works Cited Hodson, Randy. “Welcome to the Homepage of Randy Hodson!” sociology.osu.edu. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The Warren Court’s Rulings and Criminal Procedure Essay The U.S. Supreme Court, headed by Earl Warren as its chief justice for nearly two decades in the 1950s-1960s, was responsible for several landmark rulings expanding the federal and judicial power and promoting civil rights and liberties. The Warren Court’s rulings also have a long-lasting impact on everyday police work since they significantly affected the criminal justice process, including arrests, evidence search, and court proceedings. Perhaps, one of the most widely known implications of the Warren Court’s rulings is the so-called Miranda warning that features in many police detective films and shows. The Miranda warning refers to the criminal suspects’ right to silence, and police officers are required to give this warning to anyone in their custody before interrogation. Police also inform the suspects that they have the right to an attorney that will be provided to them by the state if they cannot afford one. Otherwise, any statement made by the suspect is not admissible to be used against them during criminal proceedings. The Miranda warning requirement originates from the Court’s 1966 decision in Miranda v. Arizona , which proved to be one of its most controversial cases, with the opponents of the Miranda warning calling for it to be repealed (Candela, 2011). Decisions made by the Court also affected the evidence search and collection procedure followed by the police. The Supreme Court relied on the Fourteenth Amendment, which addresses the U.S. citizenship rights to make constitutional rights applicable at the state level. This decision was adopted in the 1961 Mapp v. Ohio case which many believed has revolutionized prosecution and police practices. In particular, the Court referred to the Fourth Amendment prohibiting unreasonable searches and seizures to extend the Exclusionary Rule to the states. Thus, evidence collected in violation of the suspect’s constitutional rights is frequently inadmissible in court proceedings, meaning that police have to obtain a search warrant to inspect the suspect’s belongings (Maclin, 2012). Furthermore, the Warren Court aimed to ensure that criminal defendants enjoy fair trial and due process which found a reflection in several of its decisions. While these rulings mainly affect the trial proceedings, they also have an impact on how police can conduct their operations. For instance, the decision in Gideon v. Wainwright stated that felony defendants will be provided with an attorney if they cannot afford one. The reach of this decision extends, however, not only to the trial itself but also to critical pre-trial stages such as interrogation and eyewitness identification (Tomkovicz, 2014). The Court based its decision on the Right to Counsel as provided by the Sixth Amendment addressing the rights during criminal prosecution. Combined with other Warren Court’s rulings, this decision provides comprehensive legal protection to the accused, which its critics believe to be unjustifiably broad. While some may argue that the Warren Court was too liberal in reviewing the existing laws and has thus overstepped its boundaries, the Court had a significant impact on the everyday police work to ensure fair and respectful treatment of criminal suspects. References Candela, K. (2011). Miranda rights. In W.J. Chambliss (Ed.), Courts, law, and justice (pp. 173-186). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications. Maclin, T. (2012). The Supreme Court and the Fourth Amendment’s Exclusionary Rule. Phoenix, AZ: Apollo Education Group. Tomkovicz, J.J. (2014). An introduction to fifty years of Gideon. Iowa Law Review, 99 (5), 1875-1892. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Social Media Impact on Drug Abuse Essay (Critical Writing) Modern society, especially those groups of adolescents, are now suffering not only from drug abuse but from social media addiction as well. Evidently, these two major issues affecting the generation today are interrelated. Social media content exposing drug consumption can be regarded as a risk factor that can potentially encourage people to try drugs (Levinthal, 2014). As the amount of drug-related content on social media platforms is growing rapidly, many of these platforms now tend to introduce user policy guidelines, which hide or even block such publications. Although many people do not see any threat in sharing the content of them consuming both licit and illicit drugs, the major issue concerns celebrities who make drug-related content. Serving as role models for millions of followers all over the world, in such a way, they declare that drug use is safe and absolutely normal in the context of today’s society. Hence, people who admire them are subconsciously predisposed to try drugs to become closer to their role models, who, on the other hand, do not realize the level of responsibility they have for their actions. Another critical issue with drug-related content is the absolute romanticizing of drug use. Social media users do not often post the implications of the consumption or the process of drug withdrawal. According to the statistics, active social media users, especially adolescents, are more likely to try drugs because of the influence they see on the platforms (“The influence of social media on teen drug use,” 2020). Thus, social media platforms definitely contribute to the misuse of various drugs by romanticizing their consumption and making “social drug use” acceptable among users. References Levinthal, C.F. (2014). Drugs, Behavior and Modern Society. London, UK: Pearson Education. The influence of social media on teen drug use. (2020). Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Marx Weber Theories of Religion Sociology Essay Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Definition of “prophet” and “priest” 3. Application in modern society and discussion 4. Reference list Introduction Max Weber has made important developments in sociological theories, particularly in the sociology of religion. He looked at religion as a very important institution in the society just like family, economy or political systems (Johnstone, 2007). He is a proponent of various theories; however, his perspectives on religion have elicited debate and mixed reactions over the years. All in all whether his sentiments stand the test of time or not, he must be applauded for his attempts to come up with the meaning of a prophet or a priest. Definition of “prophet” and “priest” Weber was not a positivist and therefore, he believed in “vest hen”. As a result of “vest hen”, he looked at the society as always seeking solutions from a higher supernatural power. Therefore, charisma and power formed important basis for his perspectives. Weber made a clear distinction between a priest and a prophet showing one as being contrary to the other. He defines a priest a part of a well organized, central unit of religious officials. Unlike a priest, a prophet was defined as the bearer of an innovative, transformed or customized religious canon or divine law, instead of a perpetuator of conventional tenets. Such a person can bring about drastic revolution and changes in a society (Johnstone, 2007). Therefore, from that definition, Weber expressed a prophet as a charismatic leader or a person with charismatic authority who had a lot of power and charisma over the society. He can therefore influence the dynamism of the social systems including religion and politics. On the other hand, a priest is looked at as one with hierarchical or traditional power just there to meet certain tenets. Therefore a priest is less likely to initiate revolutions since he lacks charisma (Williams, 2004). Application in modern society and discussion Weber also asserted that priesthood in religion is basically formed by the elite and hierocracy from the beginning. On the contrary, a prophet emanates from a preacher belonging to the middle or lower social class (Johnstone, 2007). He points out that, in case of corruption and oppression in the priesthood, the prophet comes out to condemn and initiate an attempt to change the priesthood and the people as well. He expertly used illustrations from various religions like Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Buddhism, Hindu and ancient Chinese religion to show the influence of a prophet in a society (Johnstone, 2007). I agree with Weber’s sentiments on the role of a priest because for a truly religious society, they walk in the footsteps of the priest. When the priesthood is corrupt or oppressive, it roots a precedent for sacrilege and corrupt leadership. Therefore, it is under these circumstances where prophets are borne. They respond to a professed extraordinary revelation and share it with the society, often in homily form (Bodemann, 1993, p.230). Therefore, a prophet is a competent cleric, initially conveying repentance message, and subsequently social reform. This may be true in the modern society especially in Christian circles leading to birth of various churches and faith; however, I think this is more practical in the political scenes. Weber has allied the prophet too much to religion and confined his emergence therein. However, this applicability in the contemporary world leans more on the political world than in religion. His association with social class and charismatic authority is agreeable, but it is more politically inclined than religion. However, I do not totally agree to his classifications of prophets especially in the Christian society. For instance, his classification of Amos as a prophet and Ezekiel not being a prophet but a priest is not convincing (Williams, 2004). His insights should have been deeper in this aspect instead of applying historical facts. I disagree with the criteria that he used to classify prophets into religious strata. Unlike his argument, I believe that a prophet can arise out of any social system and thus, a priest is more likely to be bred in religious circles which do not always apply for prophets. All the same his work is commendable. Reference list Bodemann, M. (1993).Priests, Prophets, Jews and Germans: the political basis of Max Weber’s conception of ethno-national solidarities. European journal of sociology , 34: 224-247. Web. Johnstone, R. (2007). Religion in Society: Sociology of Religion, 8th Ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson/Prentice Hall. Web. Williams, D. (2004). Max Weber. Traditional Litigation, Legal Rational, And Charismatic Authority . Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Homeland Security Intelligence and Its Effective Use Essay The primary role of Homeland security is to protect all states within the US against terrorist activities (Homeland Security). As a security umbrella, Homeland Security Enterprise has a serious duty of ensuring that all Americans are safe. As such, DHS has a responsibility to reduce terrorism vulnerability, minimize the damage that occurs as a result of terrorist attack, and help American citizens recover from this kind of disaster (Alperen 2011, 23). Therefore, this memorandum will highlight a number of ways that Homeland Security Enterprise can approve to increase effective use of intelligence within the organization. There is no doubt that ensuring the national homeland security is one of the biggest challenges of the 21 st century due to the high level of technology and a number of problems that may arise when protecting the homeland. These problems are deeply rooted in the “over-centralization, pervasive complacency, and entrenched politics” (Mayer, Carafano, and Zuckerman 2012). These kinds of problems often make different states work improperly. As such, there is a need to increase the use of intelligence in order to ensure that these and many other obstacles are eradicated for safety of the American citizens. Effective use of the intelligence will ensure that all the security enterprises are steps ahead of security threats caused by their enemies. This will not only guarantee national security but will also help in ensuring that all infrastructures are safe, and there is no data breach (Alperen 2011, 33). The use of effective intelligence security measures will improve multiple security products as well as minimize vulnerability of all security systems. Now, the question is how Homeland Security Enterprise can increase the effective use of intelligence. First, there is a need to review the mandate and structure of Homeland Security Department (Homeland Security). Since the creation of Department of Homeland Security, its structure has not been reorganized. Therefore, there is a need to review and make numerous changes in the homeland security organization structure. This will ensure that the Homeland Security Enterprise is flexible. The restructuring of the organization should be based on the past and present security threats. Secondly, there is a need to adopt an approach that would ensure the decrease of illegal immigration to the US (Homeland Security). The Homeland Enterprise should, therefore, adopt a fair, honest and realistic approach to immigration enforcement policies (White 2011, 27). This will make the local authority responsible for maintaining and implementing all the policies that discourage illegal border immigration. These measures are important in ensuring maximum border security as they pose a major threat to national security. Thirdly, Homeland Security Enterprise should adopt policies that will ensure it focuses on its vision and mission (White 2011, 45). These policies involve maintaining the use of major counterterrorism tools. They consist of those authorized by the USA PATRIOT Act. In addition to these policies, there is a need to establish a national domestic counterterrorism and intelligence structure (Mayer, Carafano, and Zuckerman 2012). Such a structure will help the organization develop its intelligence, and eventually become steps ahead in combating terrorism. In addition to this, there is a great need to re-evaluate the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) (Mayer, Carafano, and Zuckerman 2012). Evaluating this docket will imply restructuring its mission. The mission of this department is to provide air transport services (Homeland Security). By re-evaluating the department, the Homeland Security Enterprise should also ensure that security policies are effectively adopted and implemented. This will call for improvements in air security through adoption of new and effective screening procedures. In addition, the Department of Homeland Security should also be ready to work with other departments to increase its effectiveness (Mayer, Carafano, and Zuckerman 2012). As such, it should work with modal administrations and other departments that have adopted a regulatory system and implemented an operational and enforcement body in its security system (Homeland Security). Working hand-in-hand with such partners will help the DHS understand other systems and sectors (especially, the transportation industry, which is more vulnerable) in order to adopt and implement better intelligence security policies (Mayer, Carafano, and Zuckerman 2012). Collaboration with other department will also ensure that DHS will be able to handle hazardous materials and respond adequately to any emergency cases. Last but not least, there is a need to enhance the process for declaring federal disasters and giving out homeland security grants (Homeland Security). With such measures, resource wastage will be effectively minimized, and security department will be more efficient in terms of emergency and disaster preparedness. This is because the system in place will effectively utilize all the resources for disaster management. In summary, due to the high level of security threat, which has increased because enemies have adopted modern technology and techniques, there is a great need to increase effective use of intelligence within the Department of Homeland Security. Such measures will ensure that the national security will be improved, and Americans will be safe. To increase the use of intelligence, the DHS should review its structure, focus on its primary mission, work with other administrative bodies, adopt an approach to decrease illegal immigration to the US, and re-evaluate the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) (Homeland Security). Reference List Alperen, Martin. 2011. Foundations of Homeland Security : Law and Policies. New Jersey: John Wiles and Sons Publisher. Homeland Security. 2012. The National strategy for Homeland Security . Web. Mayer, Matt, Carafano, James and Jessica Zuckerman. 2012. Homeland Security 4.0: Overcoming Centralization, Complacency, and Politics . Web. White, Jonathan. 2011. Terrorism and Homeland Security . Belmont: Wadsworth Publisher. Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Notably, it looks at the relationship between fashion and culture, body modification and identity, and the influence of contemporary media on message delivery. The paper goes further to discuss the influence of mobile phones on ethnographic blending and the impact of social movement on social transformation. Many people consider fashion as a means of demonstrating ethnonationalism. Persons belonging to different nations and cultures are always thought to dress in ways that make it easy for other people to identify them. Someone may wonder why the background affects the dress code. Arkin responds to this dilemma by insisting that people dress in a particular manner as a way of showing their love for their nation or community (723). However, national fashions cause prejudices between people of different origins or even of the same origin. Why should there be prejudices? Prejudices arise due to national hegemony: citizens of some nations feel superior to those from other nations. Some people also feel offended whenever their countrymen “betray” their national fashion. Apart from fashion and ethnonationalism, many people in the US have embraced a culture of tattooing and piercing their bodies as a way of identifying with modernism. This culture gives many of them a sense of fulfillment. One may wonder whether this trend only affects certain social groups. On the contrary, this culture transgresses every social boundary (Sweetman 173). What aspect of tattooing and piercing do individuals like? According to Sweetman, individuals who tattoo or pierce their bodies are not interested in a single part of the process. Their interest is in the entire process (168). The pain they go through during the tattooing and piercing processes is very significant to them just as the finished product. The other ethnographic practice worth studying is the switching and preference of media during breakups. It is, usually, very difficult to communicate and understand breakup messages. This situation has worsened in modern times. Why is it difficult to communicate and understand breakup messages? Gershon answers this question by arguing that people understand certain messages when specific media are used for communicating the messages (390). Such people fail to understand the same messages when senders use different types of media. If this is the case, why is the situation more complicated in modern days than it was in the past? The reason for the complication in the communication of breakup messages today is an increase in the number of media. In the past, people never had the opportunity to love some media more than others. On the other hand, people may have or lack mutual intelligibility depending on their media preferences today. Therefore, break up messages end up being disregarded for using media that the recipients do not prefer. It is also worth noting that modern technologies, such as mobile phones, also have ethnographic values for different groups of people. Many people may wonder how this could be possible. Mobile phones are products of modernism, which makes many people view them as agents of ethnographic destruction. On the contrary, mobile phones serve as a means of demonstrating loyalty to people’s cultures while at the same time demonstrating adoption to modernity. In other words, mobile phones can help blend tradition and modernism. McIntosh describes this situation using Giriama text messages, which use code-switching, English short forms, and vernacular in demonstrating the blending of tradition and modernity (McIntosh 341). Having already stated that modern media have been increasing in number as time passes, one may wonder whether ancient ways of communication such as social movements are still useful. However, looking at recent occurrences in the world reveals that demonstrations are still valid. A suitable example of instances when demonstrations have been successful is the Occupy Wall Street protest. Citizens complained about corruption, economic inequality, and greed among bankers (Krugman par. 6). They prolonged it until the media gave them attention. This paper has discussed fashion, tattooing and piercing, technology, social movements, and their ethnographic influences. All of them have profound impacts on society. Works Cited Arkin, Kimberly. “Rhinestone Aesthetics and Religious Essence: Looking Jewish in Paris.” American Ethnologist 36.4 (2009): 722-734. Print. Gershon, Illana. “Breaking up is Hard to Do: Media Switching and Media Ideologies.” Journal of Linguistic Anthropology 20.2 (2010): 389-405. Print. Krugman, Paul. “Confronting Malefactors.” New York Times 6 Oct. 2011: n. pag. Print. McIntosh, Janet. “Mobile Phones and Mipoho’s Prophecy: The Powers and Dangers of Flying Language.” American Ethnologist 37.2 (2010): 337-353. Print. Sweetman, Paul. “Only Skin Deep? Tattooing, Piercing and the Transgressive Body.” The Body’s Perilous Pleasures: Dangerous Desires and Contemporary Culture . Ed. Michael Aaron. Edinburg: Edinburg University Press, 1999. 165-183. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Theoretical Perspective on the Giraffe’s Adaptation Cause and Effect Essay Adaption is any alteration in the structure or performance of a creature that makes it more appropriate to its immediate environment (Keller et al., 2009). Every creature is adapted to an environment in its own unique way. It is through adaptation that living things can live in diverse environments. By means of natural selection, animals and plants have managed to evolve by the process of adaptation. Through adaptation, organism’s traits deemed healthy are passed over to the next generation by natural selection. Through this process, nature allows those organisms that possess healthy traits to survive while eliminating those with undesirable qualities. Among these organisms are the giraffes. The giraffes have been able to adapt to overpopulation that result in limited strategic resources (Keller et al., 2009). Several theories have been developed to explain how the giraffe’s neck evolved. Among these theories are the Lamarck theory and Darwin’s theory (Hodge, 2008). In Lamarck’s view, the ancestors of the modern giraffes were like the modern antelopes and gazelles. Faced by competition for food, the giraffes needed to adapt to browsing the leaves on top of trees. Because of the constant strain to reach these leaves, the giraffe’s neck stretched overtime resulting in its modification to fit the changing environment (Hodge, 2008). Thus, the Lamarckian theory affirms that the giraffe’s long neck resulted from the constant stretching in the attempt to access the higher foliage. The Lamarckian theory asserts that the long-necked giraffes with time faced out the short-necked giraffes as they got less food. The lack of fossils to substantiate the Lamarckian theory has led to the adoption of the Darwin’s theory (Hodge, 2008). Darwin’s theory asserts that the giraffes long physique and stretched out neck were adapted for browsing on higher tree branches (Darwin et al., 1996). Due to competition from other hoofed animals inhabiting the savannahs, the giraffes became better adapted during the dry seasons when the foliage supply is less. Similarly, Darwin’s theory argues that the giraffes consisted of the long necked and short-necked giraffes. Darwin suggested that through natural selection, the short-necked giraffes faced a lot of competition from hoofed grazers while the long-necked giraffes face little or no competition. By reaching the taller trees, the long-necked giraffes maintained a good nutrition resulting in healthier offspring. On the other hand, the short-necked giraffes gave birth to unhealthy offspring, and in the end due to lack of food and increased competition died leaving the long-necked giraffes to dominate (Darwin et al., 1996). Currently, within any population of giraffes, their height varies. Therefore, adaptation can still affect such populations since when food is adequate, the giraffes have no problem, but in case of pressure in their strategic resource like in times of drought, foliage will be scarce. During such times, the long-necked giraffes will have a higher percentage of survival and reproduction unlike the short-necked giraffes (Hodge, 2008). In this regard, natural selection will favor the long-necked giraffes more than the short-necked giraffes. Giraffes can be said to be better adapted to their environment than other hoofed animals that compete for the same resources. The giraffe’s elongated neck allows them to access higher foliage unreached by their competitors. Thus, during drought, when foliage and grass become scarce, giraffes’ competitors will be adversely affected whereas the giraffes will have little or no competition allowing them to live on to the next season as their competitors survival rate is reduced by the lack of strategic resources (Hodge 2008). References Darwin, C., Glick, T. F., & Kohn, D. (1996). On evolution: the development of the theory of natural selection . Indianapolis, IN: Hackett Pub.. Hodge, M. J. (2008). Before and after Darwin: origins, species, cosmogonies, an ontologies . Aldershot: Ashgate. Keller, M., Fuller, N. R., & Darwin, C. (2009). Charles Darwin’s On the origin of species:a graphic adaptation . New York, NY: Rodale. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Overview of the internet age Essay The advances that have been made since the advent of the internet age have come with their own limitations in society. While it is irrefutable to observe that internet connectivity has hastened the pace of development in the modern world, it is also profound to mention that digital crimes have been elevated with this kind of development. Some of the recent empirical researchers carried out on the development of information and technology reveal that organized crime is entering its fourth great era (Fafinski, 2009). This era will most entail the use of internet knowledge to commit cyber-related crimes. In any case, the internet era has practically converged the offline and online environments due to the rapid flow and sharing of information from one point to another. Due to improved ease of sharing information, it has also been discovered that there are myriads of illegal organized activities that can be conducted through the internet by individuals with the aim of committing a felony. About 80% of modern digital crimes are presumed to be organized by individuals in remote locations through the internet. Although the young tech-savvy generation has been closely associated with the fast growth of digital crime through the internet, it is understood that individuals who are above 35 years account for nearly 45% of all the digital crimes committed through the internet. On the other hand, the youths who are perceived to be tech-savvy account for about 29% of all the digital crimes (Caeti et al., 2005). In about 50% of the organized crimes that are conducted through the internet, there are usually between six to ten individuals who collaborate to commit such acts. Nonetheless, it should be noted that digital crimes do not rely on the performance of groups since individuals can equally engage in acts of crime. The digital crimes committed through the internet have indeed evolved since the early 1920s when authorities largely struggled with offenders who broke the set prohibition laws. During the early 20 th century, racketeering, gambling and consumption of illicit alcohol were coordinated and conducted offline (Caeti et al., 2005). As such, the impacts of such crimes were minimal since the influence was largely localized. The modern society has a wide access to information as a result of quick access to internet connectivity. The latter has turned the world into a global village, making it easy for criminals to access private and confidential information. For instance, one of the most dominant digital crimes entails cybercrime whereby individuals or organized groups hack into private data stored in emails, websites or offline databases. In any case, the fourth era of digital crime is a major threat to the overall wellbeing of the modern generation (Caeti et al., 2005). Even though exposure to internet poses major security threats to individuals and the society at large, it has proved to be a necessary evil that the modern world cannot do without if fast development is to be achieved. For instance, the internet provides an extremely efficient and elaborate means of communication. In addition, information technology has been boosted by the presence of internet connectivity. Vast knowledge has been acquired and transmitted through the internet. Moreover, the society is now more enlightened than it used to be some decades ago (Fafinski, 2009). One outstanding attribute of the internet connectivity is the online learning portal that several institutions are using to disseminate knowledge. Needless to say, business enterprises have also sprung up and hastened their pace of development through the internet. Therefore, it should not be eradicated in the modern world. Governments should come up with prohibitive measures and safety use standards that govern the internet. References Caeti, T. J., Liederbach, J. R., Loper, K. J., Fritsch, E. J. & Taylor, R. W. (2005). Digital Crime and Digital Terrorism . New Jersey, NJ: Prentice Hall. Fafinski, S. (2009). Computer Misuse: Response, regulation and the law. Cullompton: Willan | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Analysis of Jetstar Airways Report Table of Contents 1. History of the company 2. Issues affecting Jetstar Airways 3. SWOT Analysis of the company 4. Conclusion 5. References History of the company Jetstar Airways is an Australian air transport company with its headquarters in Melbourne. This low-cost airline was created in order to counteract the competition brought by the Virgin Blue airways to the Qantas. This airline was indented to offer cheap air transport to the Australians. It is worth noting that jetstar is a subsidiary of the Qantas and faces competition from a several air transport providers in the region. Other airlines associated with Qantas, the mother of jetstar airways include Jetstar Asia Airways, Value Air and Jetstar Pacific Airlines. The major competitors of Jetstar airways are Virgin Australia, Tiger Airways Singapore and the Tiger Airways Australia (Eagleeye, 2011). Having been launched by its parent airways provider the Qantas in 2001, Jetstar Airways started offering its services to the Australians on the 25 th of May 2004. The company was received well in the market and this motivated it to start offering international services in 2005. Although the company originated from the Qantas, it should be noted that it has an independent operating system from that of its mother company. The diagramed below gives a summary of Jetstar Airways indicating the type and number of crafts owned by the company in 2001, the number of passengers in each type of craft and their destinations. Figure 1 Jetstar Airways Fleet Aircraft Total Orders Passengers Notes J Y Total Australian & New Zealand domestic routes; Airbus A320-200 45 12 — 177 177 Asian and trans-Tasman routes; Sydney to Nadi — 180 180 Airbus A321-200 6 9 — 213 213 Australian domestic routes; Asian routes. — 214 214 Airbus A330-200 11 2 38 265 303 International routes. Boeing 787-8 — 15 [ TBA 313 This type is expected to boost international routes in future. Total 62 38+ Adapted from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jetstar_Airways Issues affecting Jetstar Airways Jetstar Airways is currently facing management problems. This is evident from the feed back given by travelers after using Jetlink Services. For instance, customers have for a long time companied about the challenges they face when seeking to buy tickets. A case in point occurred on the Friday of 4 th April 2011 when a customer complained that he called the companies management several times seeking to buy a ticket in vain. Responding to this challenge, Jetstar management published a report that the company would not follow up on any cases concerning customers’ complaints. This move by the company’s operator is a major drawback to the company’s operations given the stiff competition in the market (Sandilands, 2011, 57). Another customer claimed that he was not satisfied with the treatment customers receive when they board crafts belonging to the Jetstar Company. According to this customer, the company has a tendency of overloading passengers. He added that reporting to the company’s management yields no fruits because the management does not follow up customers’ complaints. Customer’s dissatisfaction is a serious issue affecting Jetstar Airways because it retards the company’s growth (France-press, 2011). Jetstar has also faced political managerial influence from its mother company, the Qantas. For instance, the pressure exerted on the company’s management to increase profits has led to Jetstar increasing its prices. This has in turn led to the company losing a considerable percentage of its customers. SWOT Analysis of the company This is an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the strategies adapted by a company. This analysis goes ahead to look at the opportunities and threats facing the company in its efforts to grow. The importance of conducting SWOT analysis is to give a recommendation on the areas that a company needs to rectify in order to succeed in its operations. Despite the challenges facing Jetstar Company, it still has a potential to grow. Among the strengths that guarantee the company future growth includes the huge net profits made by the company. For example, the company registered a $10.4million profit in its fourth quarter in 2009 from a $ 55.1 million net loss in its previous period. The diagram below summarizes the performance of the company in 2009. It indicates the company’s marginal growth in the 2008-2009 financial years (Eagleeye, 2011). Figure 2 Source: Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation & Jet Airways. Derived from https://centreforaviation.com/ on 29/11/2011 The major weaknesses facing Jetstar Company include poor management and brand confusion. The many companies associated with jet have made it difficult for the company to sell its brand in the market. Mission statement: To establish Jetstar airways as the low-cost air line of choice for both local and international passengers. Value statement: As a company, customer satisfaction is our priority. We value confidentiality, honesty, continued self-improvement and accountability. We are fully committed to adding value to our customers. Strategic objectives: * To extend our market to cover the international community * To improve our service provision for customers * To enhance modern technology in the overall management of the company Key strategies for the next five years: * To embrace CRM in our customer management department * To invest more money in establishing international routes Conclusion Jetstar Company was established by the Qantas to provide low-cost domestic services. The company faces stiff competition from the virgin blues and tiger airways among other companies. The company faces several managerial; and political issues but the huge profits made by the company gives it an opportunity to grow. An analysis of the company’s financial records indicates a positive growth. The many companies that use the name jet have made it difficult for Jetstar Airways to sell its brand effectively in the competitive market. References Eagleeye, (2011). Jetstar will not follow up on any case about customer complaints . Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jetstar_Airways France-press, (2011). Airline Jetstar under Investigation. Web. Sandilands, B. (2011). The carefully avoided issues in a tiny Jetstar Asian profit. Retrieved from https://centreforaviation.com/ | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Modern Sport Ethics Essay Table of Contents 1. Competition vs. Recreation 2. Performance Enhancement 3. Political Perspective 4. Conclusion 5. References Sport is a very important part of the human culture. Ever since the Olympic Games were introduced in the Ancient Greece, it drew attention of thousands of people. Even though some people may argue that sport does not play any key role in their lives, it does, to some extent, influence their worldview. The major question in sports competitions is how to make them fair. However, there is also a question on whether it must be fair in the first place. Doping and other forms of performance enhancement have recently become the most discussed subject, as people try to define whether or not it is ethical to use them. Competition vs. Recreation Robert Simon (2015) is telling a story in the beginning of his book about the sports argument he had with a group of people (p.1). He claimed that the primary goal in sport is winning, while everyone else insisted it was leisure. The argument is popular among many groups of people. In fact, this is a question of philosophy. If sport is all about winning a race, it implies that the participation of athletes who do not reach the top positions is meaningless. Many athletes join competitions not for the medals but for the mere process. Many sports disciplines require a person to train from a very young age and competitions are the source of understanding how well the body answers to the pressure. All people are physically different and this fact alone puts them into more or less advantaged positions to each other. However, this does not mean that they should lose interest in a race if they see another athlete who is more physically fit. Yet, if winning is not important, then there is no purpose of competing. Regarding sports as pure leisure downgrades the amount of work done by athletes to reach the particular physical state and skills. The popular perception of sports as leisure comes from games like football or baseball, where the individual input is not so highly valued as the teamwork. Nevertheless, winning is always expected. Thus, some athletes, coaches, and whole teams sometimes search the ways to get the victory by any means. Performance Enhancement Since sport is a physical activity, various performance enhancement tactics are targeted at making changes to the body. However, not all means of doing this are legal. One of the most popular, yet prohibited, ways to boost the sports results is doping. It is the chemical substance that is injected in a body, which makes the short-term changes to the person’s hormonal level and state of mind. The practice of doping usage is officially prohibited by all the international sports committees. It is easy to understand why it is so frowned upon. Various body types respond differently to drugs and other medicine. Thus, even if two people use the same doping, they would likely get the different results. Besides, performing under any kind of medicine does not allow to tell that the final score is a result of a hard work. However, there is a list of medicine that can be used during competitions. It mostly concerns various medical states like illness that would not let an athlete perform on the top of his or her possibilities. Shogan (2007) mentions several heath issues that professional athletes often experience as the result of their exercising (p.124). However, nobody asks the question whether such harm is justified. Probably, sport is an industry that damages the body despite the use of doping. Political Perspective Sports competitions very often mean big money. Team owners are interested in victories as their revenues depend directly on them. It is easy to assume that they do ot mind if their athletes use doping. Moreover, if the matter concerns the international competitions, things like the national pride or disappointment play a key role in the society’s perception of sport. This year’s Olympic Games in Rio started with a scandal. The World Anti-Doping Agency passed out the report where it described the results of investigation of the doping usage by Russian athletes (Gibson, 2015). This report became a reason for the International Association of Athletics Federation to suspend almost the whole Russian team from the participation in the Olympics. However, in 2016 the group of hackers received the information that WADA had practiced the prescription of medicine to American athletes which could potentially be considered as doping (Ingle, 2016). This situation is an excellent example that rules are followed only when it benefits the influential people who possess the power. Conclusion There is no doubt that doping undermines the idea of fair play. It does not allow to judge the real performance of athletes that is a direct result of their hard work. The international committees are doing the right job by revealing the cases of doping usage. However, the current system has its drawbacks, as there is evidence of using the official reports for achieving certain political interests. The international society should improve this system to ensure that sport stays both entertaining and competitive. References Gibson, O. (2015). Russia accused of ‘state-sponsored doping’ as Wada calls for athletics ban . The Guardian. Web. Ingle, S. (2016). Wada cyber attack: Williams sisters and Simone Biles targeted by Russian group. The Guardian . Web. Shogan, D. (2007). Sport ethics in context . Toronto, ON: Canadian Scholars’ Press Inc. Simon, R. L., Torres, C. R., & Hager, P. F. (2015). Fair play: The ethics of sport . Boulder, CO: Westview Press. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Performance Appraisal and Women Essay (Critical Writing) One of the best methods of performance appraisal that is non-discriminatory to women is the use of metric based methods of evaluation. The metric approach is actually quite simple, the company sets a series of performance metrics in relation to performance goals and the quality of the work expected by the company performed by a particular individual. For example, in the call centre industry metrics are often used to examine the length of a call (customer service representatives need to address an issue within a certain span of time), to find out whether the issue was resolved and to evaluate the overall quality of communication. These factors are in turn compared to a chart detailing performance levels and where a certain individual falls on them. Within the context of methods of non-discriminatory evaluation, a metric based system works best since it is not gender biased. It focuses primarily on performance and how well an individual measures up to the needed performance output set forth by the company. Another way of looking at metric based methods of evaluation and how they would be appropriate means of employee appraisal is to examine it from a promotion based perspective. Going back to the example of the call centre industry, it can be seen that in call centres such as Convergys, promotion is based primarily on how well an individual conforms to the set metrics of the company. There is no discrimination or favouritism, rather, strict guidelines and contractually based promises that are given wherein if a particular individual were to adhere to a set performance level over a predetermined period of time, they would be automatically promoted towards the next tier of operations based on availability. Such a practice would be ideal for women since it eliminates possible issues related to gender bias or politicking within a company. Organizational Investment in Employees One of the major problems that companies have to deal with on a daily basis comes in the form of their natural employee churn rates. Churn rates refer to the amount of employees that leave the company versus the amount that comes in. It is normally the case that companies finding themselves in a relatively high churn rate industry (such as in the call centre or manufacturing industry), often develop a certain reluctance towards investing in the training and development of an employee. While it may be true that training should make an employee more capable and thus a far more valuable asset to the company in the long term, the fact remains that if a company was to invest so much in training particular employees only for them to resign and utilize the skills they learned to work for a rival company, this would be considered as not only a waste of time and effort but actually detrimental towards a company’s industrial competitiveness. Taking this into consideration, it is deemed appropriate to implement methods of employee retention so as not to waste the amount of time and effort invested in employee training regimens. One possible means of addressing such an issue comes in the form of developing internal policies that allow a certain degree of flexibility when it comes to scheduling, time off and the implementation of worker based strategies for improving the performance of the company (Samson 1). Implementing such a strategy will ensure that current and future workers that apply to a company will be encouraged to stay longer since they will get the flexibility that they crave from their jobs. Works Cited Samson, Sarita M. “Attrition Issues and Retention Challenges of Employees.” Asia Pacific Journal of Research In Business Management . 4.7 (2013): 1 | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Indirect Definition of the Unit of a Penny Weight Report Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Experimental procedure 3. Data and observations 4. Results 5. Discussion 6. Conclusion 7. Works Cited Introduction The elusive unit charge of an electron was determined by Robert Millikan’s oil drop experiment in the year 1909, a Nobel laureate. As such, in his experimental setup, and with an aid of X-rays and a pair of charged plates, he was able to suspend an oil droplet on a free fall with the objective of establishing its charge. Basically, a suspended droplet was momentarily subjected to varying X-ray illumination to vital in determine the number of electrons. Consequently, he realized that the quantities of charge were a multiple factor of- 1.6 x 10^-19 C. Conclusively, he established that this was the unit charge of an electron (Millikan 24). Akin to Millikan’s experiment, the unit weight of a penny can indirectly be determined by simulation. As such, this simulated experiment is designed to determine this parameter indirectly. Experimental procedure In this experiment, the students were to be provided with an empty beaker of which they were to be weighed and recorded. The beaker containing all the available pennies and, also the beaker plus half the number of pennies were to be separately weighed and recorded initially before the commencement of the experiment. About 15-20 volunteers- students were to randomly pick a handful of pennies in a beaker (one at a time), weigh and record the observations. Fundamentally, all the pennies were to be returned to the beaker prior to a subsequent handful pick and, counting was prohibited. From the data collected, the smallest difference recorded between handfuls gave the mass of a penny. Consequently, with available data and, with Millikan’s oil drop knowledge of calculation, the weight of a penny was to be obtained. Data and observations Sorted data Difference Multiples Average mass per sample (S ma ) 22.59 32.57 9.98 4 2.50 57.50 24.93 10 2.50 72.74 15.24 6 2.54 75.50 2.76 1 2.76 82.53 7.03 3 2.34 85.07 2.54 1 2.54 87.41 2.34 1 2.34 87.64 0.23 0 0.00 92.46 4.82 2 2.41 109.94 17.48 7 2.50 112.13 2.19 1 2.19 120.00 7.87 3 2.62 139.68 19.68 8 2.46 200.21 60.53 25 2.42 215.75 15.54 6 2.59 The average mass of one penny 2.48 Mass of all pennies 1680.36 Number of pennies ̴ 678 Pennies * Mass of a penny =2.46 g. * Mass of empty beaker= 170.16 g. * Mass of beaker plus all pennies= 1850.52 g. * Mass of beaker plus a half number of pennies=1010.34 g. Results The mass difference is the difference between consecutive masses measured: From the table above, 9.98 is the difference between 32.57 and 22.59. The rest follow suit. The multiple is obtained as below: * Multiple= (mass difference)/ (mass of a penny). * For instance; 9.98/2.46 ≈4 * Average mass per sample = (mass difference)/ (multiple). * For instance; 9.98/4 ≈ 2.50 Therefore, the average mass of one penny (M avg ) is obtained as below: * (∑S ma )/ (total number S ma showing significance difference). * = 34.71/14 * ≈ 2.48g * The total number of pennies= (total mass of pennies)/ M avg * = (1850.52-170.16)/ 2.48 * ≈ 678 pennies Discussion The main objective of this experiment was to partly establish the weight of a penny indirectly and, partly to simulate how Millikan determined the charge of an electron and what his findings were. From the simulation, it was established that the average weight of a single penny was approximately 2.5 grams almost tallying with the measured value (2.46 gms.). Analogous to Millikan’s experiment, the handfuls represented the oil droplets while the mass of a single penny represented an electron charge. As such, the random masses represented a varying X-ray illumination hence, on dividing by the mass of a single penny; one is finding the multiples of electron charge. In his experimental setup, and with an aid of X-rays and a pair of charged plates, Millikan was able to suspend an oil drop on a free fall. With varying X-ray intensity, he was able to vary the charge quantities which were a multiple of 1.6 x10^-19 C- a unit charge of an electron (Millikan 24). Conclusion Conclusively, the objective of the experiment was met since it was established that the average mass of a penny was 2.5 grams almost similar to the measured value (2.46 gms.). Works Cited Millikan, Robert. The electron and the light-quant from the experimental point of view (Speech). Denver: MacMurray, 1924. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Gap Inc.’s Key Performance Indicator and Retail Strategy Case Study Table of Contents 1. Sales 2. Operating Profit 3. Gross Margin 4. Average Store Size Sales Gap’s sales grew significantly between 2000 and 2004, signifying a period of economic success. Notably, this tendency contradicts the display in the text, which claims that sales slowed in 2000 and hardly grew in 2001. The claim that sales growth slowed but did not stop can explain 2000, but the rise in 2001 directly contradicts the claim that sales grew only 1%. In the next two years, the sales began increasing due to the appearance of the new director, Paul S. Pressler. However, they peaked in 2004 and started slowly declining until 2007, when a sharp drop occurred. This change can be attributed to the leadership of Glenn Murphy, who assumed the CEO’s position at the time. However, the new executive was eventually able to recover the company’s sales and return them to the level close to that at his arrival by 2012. Operating Profit Gap began the period of 2000-2012 with a steep drop in its operating profits, caused by its misjudgment of fashion trends in 2000. The company was able to recover in 2001, and the new CEO, Paul S. Pressler, continued the trend of improving operating profits in 2002 and 2003. However, similarly to sales, operating profits peaked then and began declining to a level similar to those before the manager’s appearance. He was able to start recovery but was replaced by Glenn Murphy in 2007. Murphy concentrated on increasing operating profits, continuing the growth steadily until 2011. At that time, the staff replacements and other issues, such as the emergence of large competitors who were able to outsell Gap led to a drop in the KPI, but the value recovered to its 2010 level in 2012. Gross Margin Gap’s gross margin dropped significantly in 2001, most likely due to the aforementioned failure of the company to follow the trends that made sales and discounts necessary to liquidate the goods. It began recovering in 2002 when Pressler took the lead. However, like the other statistics, the KPI peaked in 2004 and began declining afterward. The fall continued until 2007 when Murphy assumed leadership and began working on recovering profits. The efforts were successful until 2009 when both Inditex and H&M overtook Gap as the largest specialty apparel retailer. The effect manifested in full force in 2011, with a steep drop to the gross margin. However, Gap’s management was able to stabilize the situation somewhat, and the decline was less severe in 2012, though still present. Average Store Size Gap expanded its stores considerably in 2001, likely expecting its rapid expansion to continue, but the misjudgment came as a surprise. As such, its growth slowed, but continued nevertheless, as Pressler’s policy was to close underperforming stores and open new ones, though slower than before. The increases continued throughout Pressler’s entire tenure in the company except for a small drop in 2006, where the company’s performance began declining, and the CEO was fired. Fisher was able to continue the trend, but Murphy started to shrink stores as part of his cost-saving policy. He began investing in online sales, which did not require physical store space to occur, and so the company’s brick-and-mortar locations continued shrinking throughout the period until 2012. The drop in 2008 is likely sharper than that in 2009 due to the increasing prominence of Inditex and H&M, which forced Gap to cut costs quickly. Its recovery enabled the company to conduct the process more steadily later. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The Economy and the Effect of the Economy on IBM Essay IBM has faced a decline of 6.7 percent in revenue earnings since 2011 through 2014. Quarterly report indicates that there has been a 4 percent dip in revenue of third quarter quarter (Lohr par. 14). The decline in the operating profit in third quarter and the reduction of sales has been attributed to the underperforming economy. This essay evaluates the reasons behind the declining financial performance of IBM and tries to understand how far the economic slowdown has affected the company’s performance. What happened to the strong performing company, which has often been called recession proof? Until 2010, the company saw an increase in revenue earning, however, performance dwindled post-2011. Recent economic conditions have definitely affected IBM. For instance, an increasing strength of dollar has affected the performance of many companies, including IBM, who have a strong overseas operation (Townsend and Wong par. 1). Some critics believe that the initial increase in revenue of IBM was mostly imbibed from company’s auditing policy of customers, quick selling to unlicensed customers, and heavy layoffs of employees (Cringley par. 3). The company is loosing a lot of its revenue due to its poor management of the global customer services division. The company is so understaffed that it aims to incorporate an automated project to help service its customers. The bad performance of the company has been because of the economic recession of the global economy. IBM’s business soared and stock prices rose initially in 2007, when the recession had just hit the economy, because investors believed it was safe to invest with such a strong name. However, with recession worsening, and buyer sentiment remaining dampened, the overall market remained bad, and business essentially poor. This resulted in reducing consumer and stockholder confidence on the company that resulted in the fall in the stock prices of the company. The business model that IBM pursued was to retain its strong business ground, holding on to its core business, and expand into new business opportunities (Lohr par. 16). The company is entering into new business avenues with data analytics and microchip divisions. However, the poor performance of the core business of hardware and software was stagnating these growth plans. The recession that began in 2008 and continued until 2013 showed a few specific characters such as a fall in credit availability, fall in consumer confidence, decline in export, bust of the housing bubble, fall in GDP due to austerity measures followed by countries, and problems with exchange rate (Hetzel 120). The economic downturn has affected many businesses. The economic recession has dampened consumer demand, thus reducing demand for goods and services. This has affected most businesses especially the automobile industry. IBM has seen a decline in demand from its customers, thus, reducing sales and revenue. Austerity measures resulted in tightening of fiscal policy of the economy, thereby reducing spending. This too adversely affected business. Exchange rate fluctuation has affected businesses. The most recent rise in the exchange rate of US dollar has affected many businesses that have operations spread globally. Large deficits in balance of payment of countries resulted in shrinking of the economy, thereby affecting the businesses. When businesses face recession, usually they take one of the following strategies to steer their business: prevention, promotion, pragmatism, and/or promotion (Gulati, Nohria and Wohlgezogen par. 7). IBM primarily went on a defensive mode to protect its core businesses and then followed a progressive strategy and adopted defensive and offensive strategy for its business. Hence, their initial strategy was saving their core business, but as the recession deepened, they started saving their core business as well as venture into diversified business interests. Works Cited Cringley, Robert X. “How Big Blue Blew It: Inside IBM’s Catastrophic Earnings Miss.” 2014. Forbes . Web. Gulati, Ranjay, Nitin Nohria and Franz Wohlgezogen. “Roaring Out of Recession.” March 2010. Harvard Business Review . Web. Hetzel, Robert L. The Great Recession: Market Failure Or Policy Failure? New York: Cambridge University Press, 2012. Print. Lohr, Steve. “Weak Results at IBM as Its Strategy Shifts.” 2014. The New York Times . Web. Townsend, Matt and Andrea Wong. “Dollar Rally Into October Upends Earnings From 3M to IBM.” 2014. Bloomsberg . Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
School-Based Interventions for Students With Behavior Problems Essay Educators define at-risk behaviors of a student as those actions or characteristics which are not usually displayed by his/her coevals, and which may produce a negative effect on his/her health or academic performance (Bender & Neutens, 1997, p 11). Speaking about this thirteen-year-old adolescent, we can single out the following at-risk behaviors 1. daydreaming that results in poor concentration; 2. unsociability that leads to alienation from classmates; 3. restlessness or lack of perseverance. All of these issues must be addressed by his/her teacher. For this purpose it, it is necessary to develop a plan of intervention. Daydreaming or attention deficit presents significant difficulties for both teachers and learners because it decreases the capacity of a persons memory, critical thinking ability, and participation in the discussions etc. There are several methods to cope with this issue; one of them is to remove this student from a reinforcing setting into setting with lower reinforcing value (Bowen et al, 2004, 288). In other words, this pupil should be placed in an environment where he/she will have to be constantly alert and attentive, for example, at the front desk. The presence of the instructor will act as a powerful stimulus for him. Another strategy is to engage him in group work. A person, who has to communicate with other people, unavoidably becomes more concentrated. It is important that his teammates are on friendly terms with him. This adolescent must not feel like an outsider in this team. One of the most important tasks for a teacher is to ensure that this teenager is not excluded from the group (Bender & Neutens, 1997). Thirdly, propensity to daydreaming can be alleviated by alternating the assignments this student and his/her activities. It should be borne in mind that attention weakens if a learner has to do monotonous tasks. For instance, an individual is rather unlikely to remain focused if he reads or writes for more than thirty or forty minutes. Therefore, it is necessary to make a pause or switch to a different assignment. It should be noted that daydreaming may be due to the fact that this pupil does not get enough sleep. This is why a teacher should talk to him and explain the importance of biorhythm. A person of his/her age should sleep at least seven or eight hours. The thing is that sleep deprivation can be the underlying cause of many disorders, including lack of concentration, slow reaction or even depression (Bender & Neutens, 1997). So, we can argue that explanatory work can be extremely beneficial as an intervention measure. Unsociability or reticence is another disturbing form of at-risk behavior. This student has very few friends in the class. One of the possible interventions has already been described in the previous section; it lies in encouraging this student to participate in teamwork and class discussions. He/she may be asked to assess the responses of others and uphold ones opinion. It is also possible to assign group-projects to a class. These projects may last for one or two weeks. This will offer students a good opportunity to know each other better. Thus, in this way this teenager may become more communicative. It should be taken into consideration that these interventions must not be conspicuous; they must not hurt the feelings of the teenager, otherwise this student may view oneself as abnormal. We should mention that in some cases, unsociability can be ascribed to low self-esteem, and it is vital to raise it (Bowen et al, 2004). So, it is advisable to praise this student, if he shows good results. A teacher may also assign him a task, demanding responsibility and accuracy. This will be a token of trust, which will enhance his/her motivation. The educator must make sure that this adolescent does not regard oneself inferior to others. Restlessness or lack of perseverance is much more difficult to manage. The thing is that such conduct is more typical of children of seven or ten, who are not used to working on the same task for a long period of time; sometimes, they find it very hard to sit in a chair during the course of a lesson. As it has been previously pointed out, teacher should alternate tasks, assigned to this teenager. The activities of the students must not be monotonous because monotony is one the reasons why learners may abandon academic tasks. Careful monitoring may also be an effective strategy, to be employed by a teacher. The educator should ask this student whether he/she needs help on a particular assignment or whether there is something unclear. Proffer of help must be unobtrusive otherwise this adolescent may view oneself as the one, who constantly lags behind. We should say that lack of parental control is one of the reasons why students can assume an irresponsible attitude to their studies. We should remember that this teenager lives a divorced parent. Thus, an educator may ask this parent to pay more attention to the academic performance of his/her off-spring. It has to be admitted that this analysis lacks more specific data, particularly: the performance of this student in various subjects, his/her IQ rate, interactions with the opposite sex and so forth. Yet, interventions, described in this essay, may help to resolve many of his/her problems. Reference List Bender S. J. & Neutens J (1997). Teaching health science: elementary and middle school. New York: Jones & Bartlett Publishers. Bowen. J.M. Jenson W.R. & Clark L.(2004). School-based interventions for students with behavior problems. New York: Springer. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
“The Journey of Crazy Horse” by Joseph M. Marshall Essay Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Discussion 3. Conclusion 4. References Introduction This book depicts a Lakota narration in the truest sense. In that Joseph M. Marshall is a Lakota himself, grown up by family and grandfathers, trained to give esteem to, join in and most prominently – be accountable to a Lakota way of life. At the middle of that everyday life, in accordance to Marshall, positions the Oglala organizer Crazy Horse. And so lot have ever since the death of Tasunke Witko. Marshall although has a very exceptional viewpoint of the man, the legend and the fable. They selected similar ways, though in dissimilar eras (born approximately one hundred years separately.) Both trained from a young age to be accountable to a way of life that was true to the Lakota of the occasions. Discussion Marshall’s novel should be, no, necessities to be registered right up there with Sandoz and Ambrose, probably even above them. As Marshall is not just writing further memoirs on Crazy Horse, he is narrating the story of Tasunke Witko. The majority stories concentrate on the fights of Manifest Destiny and rarely cover the land of pre-Oregon Trail contact. Through the narrations Marshall reveals a picture of Lakota life previous to the infringement of which he correctly deems European settlers. This is Lakota territory that is being occupied and Marshall tells of what was in the balance that made the Lakota struggle hard to defend it. Marshall does what few authors do, locates Crazy Horse in the educational background of his occasions and shows the modification of the Lakota world that Crazy Horse was on supply for. Some have observed this narration a bit over-dependent on Native “word-of-mouth”, but that is just an additional mirror image of the educational dissimilarities that Marshall acts out in the novel. Just as white people need books to look to, to pledge their histories occurred, Indians generally have the old people, the narrators, the scratches, the practices to establish our stories are genuine, and that is no dissimilar to us than whites requiring books. (Which is why American community pleasures their leaders like old books, and probably, they put them away never to be comprehended or they lust throw them away?) Conclusion Marshall’s book made readers think of one’s own old parents, who were no less a fighter than Crazy Horse. All sons have a romanticized viewpoint of their parents. Nobody ever actually supposes that their parents had extensive and inclusive lives previous to becoming our parents. Marshall’s book brings the readers nearer to that realization as his narration of the life of Tasunke Witko, depicted that there were conditions, a way of life, of adoring and failing, of disagreement with opponents, a way the planet was before Tasunke Witko became Crazy Horse the Legend, previous to our parents became our parents. References The Journey of Crazy Horse: A Lakota History by Joseph Marshall III. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The First World War’s Aftermath Essay The First World War produced profound effects on various societies that were involved in this military confrontation. Overall, it undermined the stability of imperial powers and prompted many people to take a more active part in the political life of the society. Imperial countries were able to draw millions of people from Asia or Africa (Bentley and Ziegler 768). Among their colonies, one can distinguish Algeria, French Indochina, New Zealand, or Australia. For instance, one can mention the formation of ANZAC or the troops formed by the soldiers for Australia and New Zealand. These people could not understand the reasons why they had to fight for some interests or goals of imperial powers. So, they spoke about their right for self-determination or the idea that nations should be able to form sovereign states (Bentley and Ziegler 768). So, the main political effect imperialism was the rise of independence movements. Furthermore, imperial countries relied on the colonies to supply their troops. Thus, they increased the economic burden placed on these territories. However, imperialism also produced significant social effects. As it has been said before, the countries representing the Triple Entente often involved people from Africa or Asia. Many of them choose to settle in Great Britain or France (Bourne 52). So, one can speak about demographic and social changes. Finally, imperialism led the development of national cultures and identities. One can say that imperialism and militarism are closely related to one another. Yet, militarism undermined the political and economic of the countries involved in Ward War II. For example, much attention should be paid to Russian Revolutions of 1917. They are a series of political upheavals that resulted in the downfall of monarchy. This downfall can be explained by the inability of this country to cope with the burden of military confrontation. In this case, much attention should be paid to war economy or the efforts of a state to supply resources to the army. Additionally, militarism contributed to the rise of many social movements. One can mention that many people, who observed the horrors of war, supported the principles of pacifism or the ideology that places emphasis on the need to avoid wars. For example, one can look at the diaries of Vera Brittain who points out that young Europeans did not believe that war had to be an inseparable part of their lives (Brittain 403). Similar arguments are expressed by Käthe Kollwitz who speaks about the sacrifice of German youth (Kollwitz 432). This author concentrates the experiences of German women. To some degree, her works can be related to feminism or the social movement that calls for the empowerment of women. Additionally, militarism shaped the culture of that period. Various artists, writers and poets focused on the experiences of soldiers many of whom had to struggle with shell shock or the trauma caused by battle. For instance, one can mention the poem Dulche et Decorum Est written by Wilfred Owen. He describes the experiences of soldiers who die because of poisonous gas (Owen unpaged). This poem is about soldiers who were initially “ardent for some desperate glory”, but their expectations were bitterly disappointed (Owen unpaged). Similar themes are explored by John McCrae in his poem In Flanders Fields. The poet writes about people who “loved and were loved”; yet due to some reason they were forced to sacrifice their lives (McCrae unpaged). Additionally, it is necessary to examine the impacts of nationalism which resulted in the formation of many sovereign states such as Poland or Finland. Yet, it is also critical remember about the increased hostilities within many countries. To illustrate this point, one can refer to the Armenian Genocide or the slaughter of at least 1 million people in Turkey. Finally, it is important to describe the way in which diplomatic alliances shaped various societies. For example, the formation of Triple Entente or alliance formed England, France, and Russia increased the economic connections between these countries. The same argument can be applied to Triple Alliance or the military union of Austria-Hungary, Germany, and Italy. Works Cited Bentley, Jerry, and Herbert Ziegler. Traditions & Encounters, Volume 2 From 1500 to the Present , New York: McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2011. Print. Bourne, Stephen. “Black Poppies.” History Today 18 Oct. 2013: 51-57. Print. Brittain, Vera. “Diary Entries and Poems on the War.” Lives and Voices: Sources in European Women’s History . Ed. Lisa DiCaprio and Merry Wiesner. Boston, Houghton Mifflin Company, 2001. 396-403.Print. Kollwitz, Käthe. “Letters and Diaries from World War I. ” Lives and Voices: Sources in European Women’s History . Ed. Lisa DiCaprio and Merry Wiesner. Boston, Houghton Mifflin Company, 2001.428-432.Print. McCrae, John. In Flanders Fields . Poets.org. 1915. Web. < https://poets.org/ > Owen, Wilfred. Dulche et Decorum Est . The War Poetry Website, 1918. Web. < http://www.warpoetry.co.uk/owen1.html >. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Dominant World Powers in 1885-1918 Essay Introduction By the end of the nineteenth century, besides the predominance of Old Europe on the global international arena, certain signs already indicated the future formation of two dominant world powers (Kennedy, 1988). The main indicator that defines the national strength of the leading world countries was industrial productivity. Besides the manufacturing strength, the key factors that had an impact on the destiny of the leading countries were their political instabilities, alliance policies, and geographical positions. Changes in the Balance of the Leading Forces in 1885-1914 The end of the nineteenth century was characterised by a rapid development of economies, due to industrialisation and urbanisation of countries. The power of each leading country was defined by the state of its military, economy, technological advancement, foreign policy and government efficiency. The balance of forces on the global arena changed with the emerging strength of Japan, Italy and Germany. Italy was gaining weight by leading progressive internal and international policies. Japan was in relative security due to its geographical isolation and remarkable patriotism. Germany had become one of the most prominent players on the map of Old Europe (Kennedy, 1988). The nation was strong both in the high rate of growth of its population and economy-wise, possessing both human and material resources. Despite being one of the most influential military forces on the continent, the country was spending a relatively small percentage of its human resources and GDP compared to Russia and France. Austria-Hungary’s main industries were coal, steel production and textile; the country has achieved great successes in the fields of mechanisation and electrification. Meanwhile, there were internal tensions and complicated relations with neighbours. All these factors led to a weakening of the situation in the country, making it dependent on German military support. France possessed a significant colonial army and naval bases in Africa and Asia. Besides a substantial growth in the economy, France was the fifth leading world power. Great Britain was the largest world empire, possessing colonies across the whole globe. It had the biggest fleet, a secure banking system, and developed traditional industries. Great Britain had a conflict on interests with France over its colonies in West Africa and Asia. Russian Empire was one of the countries with the fastest growing population, having at the same time the lowest rate of urbanisation and industrialisation per capita. Its economy was based on the production of steel, coal, textiles, and food processing. In the first decades of the 20th century, it experienced a series of political crises, which resulted in the Communist Revolution in 1917. The beginning of the 20th century was linked with continuous economic growth of the United States in both traditional industries and the development of modern technologies. Due to its geographical isolation, the country could enjoy uninterrupted development. Formation of the Great Alliances and the Military Situation in 1890-1914 The beginning of the twentieth century was linked to tensions between the leading countries. They were caused by the development of imperialism that was building barriers to free trade, the competition of growing military forces, and the fight against the balance of world forces. Another vital factor was local conflicts, destabilising the situation inside the leading countries. All these reasons prepared ground for World War I. The triple Alliance was a political and military agreement between Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy. The policies of the countries of the triple agreement were focused on emerging wars for their colonies. To oppose the Triple Alliance, the union of the Entente was formed in 1904, featuring France, Great Britain, and Russia. In the course of World War I, Italy cancelled its obligations in the Triple Alliance and joined the opposing camp of Entente. However, Triple Alliance was in its turn supported by the Ottoman Empire and Bulgaria. Already by the beginning of 1917 the states of Italy, Austria-Hungary, and Russia were at the verge of collapse. The result of the war was predetermined, resulting in disastrous economic situations in the participating countries, and the fall of the most powerful empires – the Russian, the Ottoman, the German, and the Austro-Hungarian. Reference Kennedy P. (1987). The rise and fall of the great powers: Economic change and military conflict from 1500 to 2000. The rise and fail of the great powers. New York, NY: Random House. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The 5 Why’s Method and its Application as a Problem-Solving Method Report Introduction Under the Six Sigma DMAIC analytical approach, there is an evaluation stage that is known as the 5-why process. It is a deep causal technique that entails continually asking ‘why’ so as to shed off the symptoms and isolate the root cause. This is a preferred method of ensuring quality as it does not involve statistical analysis, therefore, making it simple. In addition, it helps determine the relationship between different root causes of a problem and above all identifies the root cause of a problem (Determining the Root Cause, 2012). In an attempt to pin-point the basis of a problem most managers adopt the 5-why analysis. It is mainly used with chronic problems so as to eliminate them. As a problem-solving analysis method the main idea is to go beyond the symptom thereby enabling a permanent solution to be identified and implemented. It is an alternative to other analysis methods such as Pareto charts, fault-tree analysis and cause-and-effect diagrams (Practical Problem Solving Method, 2012). The actual process This problem-solving process involves four key elements: 1. Identify the situation- here the problem is pin-pointed, explained and the Point of Cause (PoC) established. This facilitates formalizing the problem to enable focus. One begins with a descriptive statement that states what the business offers i.e. its services and how the business offers this i.e. means of delivery to clients 2. Initiate the investigation- here a 5-why investigation is carried out and it entails grasping the root cause for the problem, for why it was not detected early and for why the ‘system’ allowed the problem to occur. The main aim is to find out exactly why the problem happens. 3. Problem rectification- here a specific action is taken to at the very least provide a short-term solution to protect the customer. 4. Avoidance through error-proofing- this entails ensuring the problem does not persist. Also, the lessons are noted down for future use. Each of these elements enables a break-down of the problem to answer questions that include who is responsible, what information is lacking, why has not a permanent action been taken and what is the way forward. There is a model known as the 5-why funnel used to break-down the process step-by-step with the three elements, each raising a why question (Determining the Root Cause, 2012). The first element merely highlights the problem. Alternatively, the 5-why analysis can be combined with the cause-and-effect diagram to illustrate numerous reasons that result in a particular shortcoming. Conclusion This process is practical for day-to-day business as it does not have to be used within a Six Sigma project, and its usefulness is felt where the problems being solved involve human interactions. It is also useful because it inculcates a mindset of preventive-action within an organization. A drawback associated with this technique is that it validates a reality but does not provide a solution for the whys leading to the final basis of the overall problem (Belohlavek, 2011). It should be noted that although the original purpose was met, this discussion focused on only a small section of the 5-why technique. In this regard, the essay cannot be described as exhaustive as it leaves room for further analysis and evaluation, something that was beyond the scope of the current assignment. References Belohlavek, P. (2011). Unicist Business Strategy: Ontology based and Object driven Strategy . Web. Determine the Root Cause: 5 Whys . (2012). Web. Practical Problem Solving. (2012). | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The optimal growth conditions of pumpkins include; temperate oceanic climate, sunny conditions, warm soil of pH ranging from six to seven and temperature of between sixty to seventy degrees Fahrenheit. The type of soil required for growth of pumpkin should be well-draining with plenty of organic material. Pumpkins are tender herbs which grow annually. Low temperatures of below 50 degrees Fahrenheit such as those that occur during spring and fall are known to cause stunting or slow growth in pumpkins. Pumpkins require enough water to grow well, but care should be taken to ensure their leaves remain dry at all times. The soil should be kept warm at all times. Heat and humidity provide a conducive environment for the development of powdery mildew; a major disease which affects pumpkins (Preparing your Garden). One way of keeping the leaves dry is by ensuring that the pumpkins are watered early in the morning to give them sufficient time to dry during the day. This, in essence, protects the pumpkins from diseases which are known to thrive well in damp conditions. However, watering of pumpkins should be done less frequently and the soils must have good water retaining capacity (How Much to Water Pumpkins). Pumpkin seeds are planted on small heaps of soil with a depth of between one to two inches and spacing of four to six feet. A plant with fully grown leaves and roots is used as a transplant. Spacing is also an essential requirement for pumpkin growth. Pumpkins require a lot of tourists home, and therefore the soils need to have sufficient organic matter. Areas, where pumpkins grow, should also be free from weeds, and other crops as these are known to compete with pumpkins for the available nutrients Reducing weeds is achieved by using plastic and organic mulches that also help to conserve water and hence minimize the frequency of watering. Most common parasites that affect pumpkins are squash vine borers and cucumber beetles (Preparing your garden). Frequent dusting and spraying can prevent these parasitic infections. Squash Vine Borers (SVB’s) are a nuisance to pumpkin farmers. Squash Vine borers are known to destroy pumpkin vines from the inside. The disease can be fatal to the pumpkins if untreated. The signs and symptoms of Squash Vine Borers infestations include; wilting, sudden changes in ripening, holes and sawdust-like power on the vine. Once the vine is infested with Squash Vine Borers, the only remedy is complete removal using a sharp object after which fungicide is applied to the area of infection. However, removal causes more harm to the vine (Teuro). A variety of pumpkin diseases such as powdery mildew thrive well in areas with high temperatures and humidity. To be on the safe side, farmers are advised to apply fungicides the moment the disease symptoms are detected. This is advantageous since fighting the disease once it has spread can be quite costly (Preparing your garden). Pumpkins and microbes form symbiotic relationships. Microbes found in the soil contribute to the growth of pumpkins by enhancing soil fertility and aeration. They help in the breakdown of organic matter within the soil that makes up humus of the soil. While some microbes are pathogenic, others help in nitrogen fixation in the soil, they also breakdown and hold together in-organic compounds in the soil; this helps in improving polluted soils. Bigger organisms in the soil facilitate aeration and formation of good soil structure thus improves the soil’s capacity to retain water. Mutualism between pumpkins and other organisms such as earthworms, beetles, and termites are crucial since they provide the nutrients for optimal growth of pumpkins. Bacteria in the soils and root nodules of some plants aid in nitrogen fixation whereas fungi aid in the decomposition of non-biodegradable materials (Board of Agriculture). The humus formed helps in the absorption of minerals by plants and also assisted in stabilizing the soil pH. Because of its dark color, it aids in energy absorption from the sun. The quality and productivity of the soil are of importance in the growth of pumpkins since it is the medium where plants derive nutrients for growth. It is therefore important that soils should be preserved from degradation and the use of chemicals minimized while encouraging natural farming methods. Mutualism is therefore very critical for the growth of pumpkins and other plants without which they will not grow well. Works Cited Board of Agriculture. “Soil and Water Quality: An Agenda for Agriculture. USA.” National Academy Press. USA. 1993. 184-197. How Much to Water Pumpkins . Pumpkin Growing Tips. 2005. Web. Preparing your Garden . Pumpkin Growing Tips. 2005. Web. Teuro, Higo.” Effective Microorganisms: A New Dimension for Nature Farming.”Japan University of the Ryukyus.Japan.1997.2-8. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Various philosophies and lifestyles are involved in the movement, which means different trends can be distinguished within the movement itself. Such trends include the raw vegetarianism, raw veganism with sub-trends like “paleo” vegan diet, fruitarianism, juicearianism and sproutarianism, and raw animal food diets, for example, anopsology, primal diet, and “paleo” meat diet. Some of these trends are more popular than the other, and some are almost marginal, but it would be a fair assumption to say that the social component in these movements is as essential as the nutritional. To illustrate the mentioned thesis in this paper, it may be necessary to do a background research on the movement and then analyze its present state and future directions and perspectives. While the concept of consciously choosing to eat raw food is ancient and dates as early as Ancient Greece and Rome, where fasting and eating raw fruit and vegetables was considered healthy and beneficial for body and mind, the actual raw foodism movement was born at the beginning of the twentieth century, and later was revived twice in 1970s and the late 1990s, as the interest for “fancy” and healthy food habits steadily grew. For some time, the movement has been “underground” among other trends like vegetarianism and veganism, more popular at the time, but then, as Frederic Patenaude reminisces in his article, “The Death of the Raw Food Diet”, there appeared an actual “raw food scene”: If you had been a 100% raw foodist … [and] if you could claim to have done it for a decade or longer, you were viewed with a godlike aura. All the gurus were claiming to eat a 100% raw food diet, and were encouraging their followers to do so. If you were strong enough … you would convince as many people as possible to do the same. You would hang out with other raw foodists almost exclusively, and try to “spread the word” in a way that dangerously resembled a cult. ( The Death of the Raw Food Diet par. 24-26) The social component of the raw foodism is evident, and its aims and objectives are similar to any other social movement, including the attraction of new participants, getting their message across and drawing the public attention to their cause. A few extremities also existed in this movement, similar however to many other social sects, which were also described by Frederic Patenaude in another article: “It is true that certain methods of cooking … create many carcinogenic substances in the process, it is false to say that all cooked foods are “toxic.” This is the type of statement that make people say that raw-foodists are fanatic and make them discredit our message at once” (par. 18). By now the movement has created a lot of followers and admirers, though not all of them are as “fanatic” as Patenaude describes, but the opponents of this lifestyle are present too. For example, Richard Wrangham in his research named “Cooking as a biological trait”, claims that “raw-foodists were vulnerable to energy shortage. Thus of the 18% that followed a 100% raw-food diet, 31% were judged to suffer from Chronic Energy Deficiency. The negative effect of an inadequate energy supply was indicated by women’s reproductive performance, which worsened steadily with larger amounts of raw food” (37-38) and opposes the raw-foodist reasons that our ancestors ate raw food, ergo it would be wise to follow their example: “while cooking gave humans dietary flexibility, it also constrained our species… Cooking may be cultural, but current evidence suggests that its effects have fed back into our biology, and have thereby created constraints that … shape and define our evolutionary biology” (43). Even after numerous debates and conducted researches, it remains uncertain whether the raw food diet is harmful or healthy, or both in different circumstances. All the while, the appeal of the raw-foodist lifestyle has attracted a few celebrities that help to spread the rumor and in return attract more followers; arguably these two facts are interconnected. “The Independent” newspaper illustrates this point: “Actresses such as Uma Thurman, Demi Moore and Natalie Portman … are devotees, while … Gordon Ramsay last week called for more people to turn to raw meat, and the country’s first raw-food restaurant has opened in London” (“The raw meat diet” par. 5). The actor Woody Harrelson also advocates raw veganism and eco-activism, as well (Sager par.15). With such defenders and admirers, the future of raw food diet may seem secure, and the movement itself has the potential to develop and grow. Nevertheless, in the last years the opinions began to form, claiming that raw-foodism is impractical, time-consuming, and possibly dangerous fad ( 14 Fad Diets You Shouldn’t Try par. 1) that will soon vanish and be forgotten among other fancy trends. Whether such claims are true or is the raw food eating lifestyle an important and meaningful life experience for the individuals that follow it, is a question that yet remains to be answered. Works Cited 14 Fad Diets You Shouldn’t Try n.d. Web. Patenaude, Frederic 2009, Fanatisicm in the Raw Food Movement . Web. Patenaude, Frederic 2013, The Death of the Raw Food Diet, Web. Sager, Mike 2012, Who Doesn’t Love Woody Harrelson? , Web. “The raw meat diet: do you have the stomach for the latest celebrity food fad?” The Independent. 2011. Web. Wrangham, Richard and NL. Conklin-Brittain 2003, “Cooking as a biological trait.” Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A 136.1 (2003): 35-46. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Behavioral vs. Cognitive Approach to Learning Research Paper Table of Contents 1. Behavioral Approach 2. Cognitive Approach 3. Cognitive-Behavioral Approach 4. References Behavioral Approach This approach relies on the idea that in the process of learning, students respond to various stimuli from the external environment. Thus, according to behavioral theory, the role of an educator is to provide useful stimuli that can lead to the formation of the desired behavior (Skinner, 2011). Behavioral learning theorists believe that learning revolves around the continuous repetition of the same action that is accompanied by appropriate feedback on behalf of a facilitator (Skinner, 2011). In the most general terms, learning is considered to be successful if the change in behavior happens as a result of proper conditioning. The process of learning is rather slow in this case because the required result takes time to achieve. First, the behavioral pattern must be introduced and established, then – consistently maintained. Complex learning falls into a series of small successive steps that have to be repeated until the reaction is automatic (Jonassen & Land, 2012). The approach also relies on the assumption that there exists only one correct way of doing something, one “true” answer that students must know. Further, it disregards the peculiarities of each learner. Therefore, a facilitator receives unlimited control over the learning process. He/she is free to choose any means to reach the required objectives (Skinner, 2011). Cognitive Approach Unlike behaviorism, which concentrates on the importance of the educator’s role (with students as passive recipients of information, who are supposed to react in a prescribed way), the cognitive approach is more concerned with the learner’s mental activity in generating ideas and educational opportunities. The teacher should not provide ultimate control – his/her task is to choose the best strategy to ensure comprehension. Both sides are equal in the process of learning (Gardner, 2008). Cognitive theorists consider that learning occurs as an internal mental process and is predetermined by one’s intellectual capacity. The speed of learning is higher than that required by the behavioral approach since students take an active role. The process starts from the perception of a holistic picture and the components that form it (in the cognitive phase) and proceeds to gain skills while performing the task (in the fixation phase). If the task is rather easy to comprehend and perform, the process is not divided into stages (as in behavioral approach), whereas complex learning is exercised step by step: each easy task is practiced as an individual activity before all the constituents are combined. The automatic phase is shared with behavioral learning because its ultimate goal is to achieve self-action (Riding & Rayner, 2013). The key difference is that cognitive learning can take place only when it is meaningful for each party involved. Learners must be aware of each stage of learning; they should experience and structure new information, not only perceive it passively (Riding & Rayner, 2013). Cognitive-Behavioral Approach Analyzing these approaches, one could admit significant differences between these important theories. The main distinction is the approach to how people acquire skills, knowledge, and experiences. Behaviorists are sure that a persons individuality is formed under the impact of external factors, while cognitivism tends to emphasize the role of an individuals thinking and analysis. The given differences create the basis for the further divergence of these approaches and the creation of opposite teaching methods. Moreover, the adherence to various perspectives conditions the appearance of several vigorous debates related to the efficiency of the methods that are based on both cognitive and behavioral approaches. Modern science tends to accept the great positive impact of both these methods; however, there are still attempts to prove the advantageous character of one or another. Although the two approaches appear to be drastically different, their combination is still possible with the purpose to achieve better results. The fact is that both these methods are focused on the investigation of the major cognitive processes and the methods that could help a person to evolve more efficiently. For this reason, it is possible to speak about the possibility to elaborate some integrated approaches based on the combination of the above-mentioned approaches. However, such type of combination is more generally applied in psychology. The approach focuses on the development of personal strategies of learning that would solve emerging problems and change ineffective patterns of cognition. It is both purpose-focused and action-oriented, which means that it allows students and teachers to choose the most suitable method of learning new information. Therefore, it is possible to resort to repetition and reinforcement as well as give students more freedom of choice and encourage their ideas when they can contribute to the ultimate result. The key point here is flexibility and openness to variations. However, in practice, it requires much more effort on behalf of the educator because it is much harder to implement than either of the two theories taken separately (Jonassen & Land, 2012). In this regard, despite numerous differences between these approaches, there are still opportunities for their combined usage that come from some similarities. References Gardner, H. (2008). Art, mind, and brain: A cognitive approach to creativity . New York, NY: Basic Books. Jonassen, D., & Land, S. (Eds.). (2012). Theoretical foundations of learning environments . London, UK: Routledge. Riding, R., & Rayner, S. (2013). Cognitive styles and learning strategies: Understanding style differences in learning and behavior . London, UK: Routledge. Skinner, B. F. (2011). About behaviorism . New York, NY: Vintage. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Tea as an Alternative to Preventive Medicine Research Paper Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Consuming tea helps in preventing chronic diseases 3. Conclusion 4. Works Cited Introduction The need for alternative diagnostic methods is on the rise, especially on the use of plant extracts and phytochemicals rather seeking medical care from doctors and physicians. Researchers are working on developing preventive and curative drugs that have the least added chemicals. Research records assert that tea consumption is one of the mechanisms of reducing the onset of chronic diseases; however, the clinical implications are not clear. In Australia, for example, more than 50% of the total population use non-medically prescribed alternative medicine (Carson and Riley 144). However, the arising biasness between the health care medical providers and the alternative medication experts raise a series of concern. Tea extraction is from the green leaves of a plant called Camellia sinensis . Consuming tea helps in preventing chronic diseases The key function of tea is to provide stimulation to the body. However, extracts from tea accomplish many other biological functions other than the stimulation. Tea comprises of polyphenols, alkaloids, amino acids, carbohydrates, proteins, chlorophyll, volatile organic compounds, fluoride, aluminium, minerals, and trace elements. In vitro and animal experiments indicate that polyphenols extracts from tea affect the parthogenesis of several chronic diseases (Beliveau and Gingras 1021). Tea catechins act as antitumerigenic agents and immune modulators in immunodysfunction of transplanted tissues or introduction of carcinogens. Tea controls the emergence and re-emergence of leukaemia. A research on green pigment in tea, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) shows its ability to control the spread of the chronic lympocytic leukaemia B cells isolated from patients suffering from leukaemia. Beliveau and Gingras (1022) records that tea produces angiogenic cytokine that prevents the apoptosis due to secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor, reducing chances of contraction of the heart disease. Tea is an essential component in the control of the degeneration diseases of the heart. A specific concentration of catechins, which is the pigment that contains medicinal properties in tea, if injected into the human plasma show protective effect against the degeneration of the tumour cells of the body. Consequently, consuming tea or applying tea on an individual’s body reduces sunburn from the ultraviolet radiation. Green tea prevent the development of tumor cells by activating the detoxification of the glutathione S-transferase and quinone reductase responsible for the protection of the tumor cells that cause chronic diseases. The principal polyphenols in green tea, EGCG, EGC, ECG, and EC and the theaflavins and thearubigins in black teas contain antioxidant that prevent cells from DNA damage due to the reaction of oxygen with cells (Beliveau and Gingras 1022). In addition, tea limits the proliferation of the tumor cells. The consumption of tea reduces the damage of the cells due to the ultraviolet rays from the sun. This prevention technique reduces the chances of development of tissue cancer, as well as that of organs such as spleen, pancreas, and liver. Even though most scientists believe that tea reduces the chances of contracting such cancer, there is still no established mechanism on how the polyphenols prevent cancer, however, several evidences from human studies show link to cancer prevention. Epidemiologic studies indicate a relationship between tea consumption and the reduction of cancer of the colon, breast, ovary, prostrate and lung cancer. A study of the treatment of 60 Japanese, divided into two groups, with green tea after a year indicates that those that were treated with tea showed low level of the above cancers while those not treated developed the cancer (Carson and Riley 145). However, there is inconsistency in the results since most researchers are unable to determine the dosage of the tea used. Other limitations of the study are genetic variation whereby some people develop allergy to tea drinks, and, therefore, show contradicting results. Clinical trials investigate the role of tea and tea polyphenols in the control of cardiovascular diseases such as blood flow and pressure as well as the regulation of cancer of the heart. Recently, a trial on the effectiveness of tea and their polyphenols using people with leukoplakia for oral and heart cancer lesions indicates that the polyphenols have a depressive factor that reduced the size of the lesions after a period of six months. The group that did not receive oral polyphenols showed an increase in the size of the lesions. This indicated that green tea has a protective effect to the development of oral cancer. Research statistics show that tea supplements of caffeine reduce the occurrence of precancerous lesions of the esophagus. The worsening of the condition leads to the development of cancer of the throat. Besides, tea polyphenols reduces the gastric content in the stomach. Polyphenols reduce the amount of serum pepsinogen in the stomach reducing the chances of eruption of stomach cancer. A high level of serum pepsinogen is associated with gastric atrophy, which is an indication of stomach cancer. In addition, green tea catechins or green extracts reduce the risk of prostate cancer. The catechins inhibit the development of tumour cells in the prostate, thus minimizing the possible occurrence of cancer. Conversely, research indicates that men who consume seven or more cups of tea are likely to develop prostate cancer. Conclusion Regardless of the importance of tea consumption in the control of chronic diseases, excessive consumption of tea has adverse effects on the health of users. For instance, fluoride in the tea causes tooth decay and damaging of the bones. The oxidation of the carbohydrates initiates tooth decay. Excess consumption of aluminium lowers blood clotting and the formation of haemoglobin that transports oxygen to the tissue. Works Cited Beliveau, Richard, and Denis Gingras. “Green tea: prevention and treatment of cancer by nutraceuticals.” Lancet 364.9439 (2004):1021-22. Print. Carson, Christine, and Thomas Riley. “Non-antibiotic therapies for infectious diseases.” Antimicrobial resistance in Australia 3.27 (2003): 144-147. Print. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The Theme of Interrelatedness Essay The reason for writing this is a comment made by a man in a coffee shop. He remarked, “All religion is about belief in dogma, belief in God, and learning right from wrong.” As I reflected on this comment for long I came to notice that the statements he made are incorrect if applied universally and absolutely to all religions. Mary Pat Fisher in Living Religions makes this idea very clear. In the preface of the book she clarifies, “Religion is not a museum piece.” (Fisher, 2005. p 13). On the contrary, in this new era it is alive in people and places around the world. The development, doctrines, and practices of the major religions of the world bear witness to the fact that the world is interrelated and the various religions are the result of various cultural traditions. A major theme of several religious traditions is to view the world as interconnected either in relation to human relationships, relationships with ancestors or with nature. In a Resolved Question conducted by a website on the interrelatedness of everything in the cosmos as it is expressed in many indigenous religions, the importance of these relationships developed, and the spiritual purpose, the best answer chosen by the voters read “spiritual purpose? Everything is interrelated, they were just stating a fact.” (Resolved Question). There is much more than belief in specific dogma, in God, and other such things of the individual religions. To many religions, everything in the universe is initially interrelated. If all religion is about specific dogma, there would be no relatedness among the religions. But there are meeting points in the beliefs of the religions like in the case of human relationships. The essence of many a religion is the universal brotherhood of the humanity. They all stress the universality of this relationship. The teachings of Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam may be taken to illustrate this point. Whereas Christianity advocates treat all the neighbors just as God, Hinduism is based on the universal brotherhood and fraternity. This human relationship is the main idea of most of the r=other religions as well. In the modern context, it is essential that we consider this interrelatedness of the world on the basis of human relationship. The root cause of all the miseries and conflicts related with the religions is the narrow view that the dogma of particular religion is primary and there is nothing beyond that. In fact, the religions of the world are based on a theory of the interrelatedness of the world. The interrelatedness of the universe is constituted, also, by the relationship with the ancestors and nature. The philosophies of most of the religions are based on their relationship with the nature. They all profess a nature-based way of life in which there would be utmost priority to the nature and its forms. Accordingly, the essence of humanity is the life with nature and it has no existence without nature. The eastern religions particularly focus on the co-existence of nature and man. Both the world and nature are related and they exist in a mutual relation. The teachings, philosophies, and way of life of the religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and others focus on the same interconnection of the world. Christianity also teaches a nature-based philosophy. Is it, then, matter of fact that all religion is about belief in dogma, belief in God, and learning right from wrong? It is true that the religions have their own dogma and beliefs. But the prominent theme of interrelatedness of the world cannot, at any cost, be overlooked. The religious traditions are various but they all focus mainly on the theme of interrelatedness of the world. Thus the entire world, to the religious traditions, is beyond the difference in the specific dogma and beliefs of God. The remarks of the man in the coffee shop were motivated by the narrow-mindedness of the understanding of the religions. People of this nature forget the theme of interrelatedness of the world that several of the world religions uphold. Works Cited Fisher, Mary Pat. Preface. Living Religions, (6th edition) Pearson Education. 2005. p 13. Resolved Question. Yahoo! Answers. 2007. 17, 2007. Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Setting in “Hills Like White Elephants” Story Essay Ernest Hemingway’s famous short story “Hills Like White Elephants” is a short work but full of contextual details. The setting in which the events of the story unfold is notable for how much it influences the course of the narrative. Various non-obvious aspects presented by the author allow the reader to find new meanings in the story and reveal the characters more deeply. First of all, it is worth noting the location within which the conversation unfolds. The Spanish countryside emphasizes conservative views on difficult moral decisions such as abortion. The railway station refers to the crossroads on which the couple is located. The hills against the background of the story unfold to show the man’s lingering from the events and his misunderstanding. First, Hemingway chose a specific location to describe the actions of his story. Spanish setting “contributes to the ironic tone of the story, for the moral drama takes place in a predominantly Catholic country where the church stands in firm opposition to abortion” (Johnston). Thus, the narrative acquires an ironic and satirical tone since the central conflict between the characters has a moral basis. In countries with dominant religiosity, such conversations could not arise at all. Moreover, the girl, unlike her companion, does not know Spanish and asks him “what does it say” (Hemingway 229). This emphasizes her dependence and incompetence, the American being her only acquaintance and guide. The bar at the train station is also a notable element of the story’s setting, as it symbolizes path and movement. This location emphasizes the tension of the situation as abortion is an “unspoken reason for their trip to Madrid” (Bloom). Being in a bar, drinking, and having a not effective conversation, the characters show that they are in an uncomfortable situation where they both do not want to make a decision. The railway station is a pathway for both of them, on which their joint fate is decided. Thus, the setting of the story emphasizes the dynamics of events, the reader experiences anxiety. Moreover, the train must arrive soon, which means that a decision must be made, which cannot be delayed any longer. Another significant detail, undoubtedly, are the hills themselves, against which the conversation unfolds. Kozikowski notes that “American man, as distant from metaphor as he is from the hills.” In reality, the hills symbolize childbirth, just as their color refers to the difficult decision and the uniqueness of the girl’s position. However, only she was given to understand how much pregnancy and abortion are of great importance in a woman’s life. Her companion cannot understand this fact, which is emphasized by the presence of hills, to which the girl pays attention, but the man does not. The setting, in this case, emphasizes the man’s indifference and Jig’s anxiety. Hemingway skillfully incorporates many details into a short story, turning it into meaningful work. It is difficult to learn much information directly from a conversation between a girl and a man. However, the setting allows the reader to understand the meaning of events occurring. The irony of the situation is underscored by the Spanish location with a dominant Catholic restrained faith, within which it is impossible to talk about abortion. The railway station is a symbol of a difficult decision, as well as its fatefulness. The hills refer exclusively to the values of the girl, which the man does not share since he cannot understand them. Thus, the setting in the story plays no less role than the characters themselves and their dialogue. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Introduction 2. Talk, Demonstration, Role Playing, and Reinforcing 3. Possible Implications for Different Stakeholders 4. Conclusion 5. References Introduction Although cases of employee illnesses are a common problem in business practice, such issues in the healthcare sector may have severe consequences for all stakeholders. It is seen in Sarah’s example, when her case of tuberculosis and the subsequent declassification without her consent led to her isolation in the workplace and possible infection of another home health assistant. The assistant manager is obliged to inform the Home Health Care Agency’s employees and clients about precautions while maintaining Sarah’s privacy to prevent a possible outbreak and spread of the infection. Researchers note that “health information is the data related to a person’s medical history, including symptoms, diagnoses, procedures, and outcomes.” (“What Is Health Information?” n.d., para. 1). The most appropriate methodology for providing information in such conditions would be a theoretical and practical educational training course on pulmonary diseases, focusing on the types of tuberculosis. This paper will examine the three steps of the training course for each group of stakeholders and discuss the possible implications of this problem. Talk, Demonstration, Role Playing, and Reinforcing The educational course includes a theoretical part, talk or lecturing, and a practical part, which involves a demonstration and role-playing. According to Chaghari, Saffari, Ebadi, and Ameryoun (2017), “training programs are essential for the survival and viability of the organization in the competition arena” (p. 26). The HR Department Assistant Manager may appoint as a trainer one of the experienced employees of the organization or hire a freelance specialist. The first step, or lecturing, should include the causes and conditions for the occurrence of pulmonary diseases with the emphasis on tuberculosis, as well as the results and consequences of treatment. Researchers note that “this is an effective way to help the group work together to solve a problem” (“B. Choose appropriate training methods,” 2019,para. 10). This category should also include debunking myths and prejudices about people who have had pulmonary diseases to stop the isolation of Sara by other coworkers. The lecture should be supported by a demonstration of scientific data and statistics, as well as video materials with people who had overcome tuberculosis, and their spouses, relatives, and friends. Researchers have proven that learning and understanding are faster and more productive when multiple senses are involved (“B. Choose appropriate training methods,” 2019). In the role-playing process, employees should apply and remember the knowledge gained about practical methods of primary identification of pulmonary diseases, ways to prevent infection, and the rules of interaction with current and former patients. Also, everyone can undergo reinforcing learning for a better understanding of the knowledge gained. In parallel with this process, it is also necessary to inform the management of the Home Health Care Agency and its clients. These procedures may be limited within the framework of theoretical training and should be held through such communication methods as face-to-face and email (Liebler & McConnell, 2020). Emails should include both original materials and links to peer-reviewed and popular sources. Possible Implications for Different Stakeholders Ignoring the need to solve the problem may lead to a number of serious negative consequences. It is worth noting that social isolation in the workplace that Sarah has experienced worsens physical and mental health (Tanskanen & Anttila, 2016). Such a situation also leads to less productivity and, therefore, weakening financial independence. Management may suffer financial losses because multiple cases of employees’ infection reduce the number of work staff, which limits the range of services provided and, therefore, profits. The situation with tuberculosis contagion is the most dangerous for clients, because they may also get sick. Such an incident will cause further rejection of medical services and distrust of home health care organizations. This may even lead to premature deaths due to the absence of a specialist in the vicinity. Such cases have a negative effect on the entire organization in the form of reputation losses. Conclusion This paper considers possible ways of informing various groups of stakeholders within the framework of Sarah’s privacy. Several steps have been proposed for this problem from the HR Department Assistant Manager perspective. All these steps are combined into an educational training program. The first point is a lecture focusing on pulmonary diseases, especially tuberculosis subtypes. The informative speech is aimed at studying the causes and methods of infection, as well as the consequences of the disease and treatment. All this is supported by various visual materials, after which the coworkers participate in practices for the correct protection and interaction. The purpose of this training is not only to reduce the risk of the disease, but also to destroy the social isolation in which Sarah found herself after recovery. Possible negative consequences of such a problem were also put forward from the prospect of it being further ignored. One of the most important implications is the general deterioration of Sarah’s well-being. Agency’s clients also risk not only getting a pulmonary infection but also being even in a worse situation due to the absence of a medical professional. References B. Choose appropriate training methods. (2019). Web. Chaghari, M., Saffari, M., Ebadi, A., & Ameryoun, A. (2017). Empowering education: A new model for in-service training of nursing staff. Journal of Advances in Medical Education & Professionalism, 5 (1), 26-32. Liebler, J. G., & McConnell, C. R. (2020). Management principles for health professionals . Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Publishers. Tanskanen, J., & Anttila, T. (2016). A prospective study of social isolation, loneliness, and mortality in Finland. American journal of public health, 106 (11), 2042-2048. What is health information? (n.d.). Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The Nurse’s Role in Quality Health Care Essay Staff nurses constitute a major part of all workers in the healthcare organization. In high-performing hospitals, such as those that achieve Magnet designation, the role of these nurses is vital to the facility’s success. Nurses employ their experience and knowledge while caring for patients on a daily basis. Therefore, their contribution to quality performance is substantial – their efforts directly influence patient health. In order to promote quality improvement, staff nurses should adhere to the latest guidelines, engage in continuous learning, interact with nursing leaders, and voice their suggestions to create a communicative and open culture. It should be noted that the opportunity to speak up exists for nurses whose leadership inspires professional and personal growth (Bormann & Abrahamson, 2014). Nevertheless, staff nurses should employ their leadership skills to unite other nurses and serve as an example of quality and active participation. Another affecting factor is the organizational culture of the healthcare facility. For example, my workplace utilizes a functional bureaucratic structure (Yoder-Wise, 2015). This means that all employees have a specific set of rules and duties and all connections between them are official and rigid. The leadership style of both the CEO and CNO, however, can be described as democratic. While both leaders are not involved in the majority of small conversations, their feedback and approval are vital in implementing new projects in the workplace. Moreover, they rely on the qualified members of staff or managing levels to contribute to the discussion. Thus, the combination of a bureaucratic structure and democratic leadership creates a system of rigid communicational channels where each worker is allowed to participate in some capacity. The lack of open interaction among units, however, leads to ineffective decision-making participation. In some cases, this lack of conversation between lower and higher levels of workers leads to problems. In regards to financing decisions, for instance, senior management does not always understand the need to increase the financing or make corrections to the budget. The rigidity of the process also stalls all decisions since the official process of implementing change, challenging the quality of nurses’ performance (Spath, 2013). Moreover, nurses may feel as though their contribution to decision-making is insignificant in this setting (Manning, 2016). In turn, this can lower their initiative and participation. As a result, nurses and managers often have to overcome challenges in addressing financial problems in their departments. In order to resolve this issue, the organization should aim to change its structure and make the participation of nurses more valuable and appreciated with the help of transformational leadership. According to Manning (2016), the transformational approach helps both managers and nurses because it creates a unifying goal and produces values for the organization. Moreover, the focus on communicative and personal patient care and safety can become a viable strategy in increasing performance quality. A flat structure of leadership can be achieved on a small scale in units to include all nurses and specialists into the decision-making process. By giving nurses more freedom to suggest their ideas, the hospital can positively influence their commitment (Yoder-Wise, 2015). While providing employees with freedoms, the aspect of accountability should not be abandoned – nurses should understand that their decisions have an impact which can produce both positive and negative results. As an outcome, nurses’ performance may benefit from this balance, further moving the organization towards a high level of quality care. References Bormann, L., & Abrahamson, K. (2014). Do staff nurse perceptions of nurse leadership behaviors influence staff nurse job satisfaction? The case of a hospital applying for Magnet® designation. Journal of Nursing Administration , 44 (4), 219-225. Manning, J. (2016). The influence of nurse manager leadership style on staff nurse work engagement. Journal of Nursing Administration , 46 (9), 438-443. Spath, P. (2013). Introduction to healthcare quality management (2nd ed.). Chicago, IL: Health Administration Press. Yoder-Wise, P. (2015). Leading and managing in nursing (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Mosby. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The Benefit of Existence in Philosophy Essay (Critical Writing) The philosophers view the concept of life and death from different angles. Parfit (2004) claims that the situation differs because the conditions of people’s lives vary. This claim implies that if the life of a person is beneficial, then this life is worthy. On the contrary, if a person suffers, it would be better for an individual not to exist. This argument is reasonable because it introduces the explanations of different options and the analysis of the consequences. A person may support this claim by offering the idea about the existence of various circumstances and the relativity of people’s lives, introducing the details. On the other hand, some individuals may contradict the author’s argument, claiming that there should be one truth and one single solution to the issue. The author argues that if a person is never born, there is no one “who never exists” (Parfit, 2004, p.120). This idea implies that the writer uses the feelings of people to explain the worthiness of human life. One of the most controversial points is that death and never-existence can be compared. Mainly, the philosophers may argue that the difference is significant between these two states. This assertion stands out because it regards the theme of life, death, and the afterlife, which is always debatable. If it were possible to address the author, it would be relevant to ask whether the philosopher would prefer life or death in his situation. Perhaps, he would reply that it depends on his analysis of his whole life in general. This idea of the thinker is reasonable because it can be compared with the social issue of death penalties. Mainly, the theme explored in the reading is significant because it might help understand whether capital punishment is justified. The author’s position is that people deserve existence when their life benefits them. This point can be supported by the claim that humans’ lives should also serve the lives of others. Reference Parfit, D. (2004). Whether causing someone to exist can benefit this person. In D. Benatar, Life, death & meaning: Key philosophical readings on the big questions (pp. 119-124). Rowman & Littlefield. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
My Changing Taste in Music Report (Assessment) One of the invariable realities in our lives as human beings is that we are in a constant state of changing. These changes may be gradual or abrupt and can be as a result of our surroundings, education, peer influence or various other factors. One of the aspects in my life that has undergone radical changes is my taste in music. This change has been gradual and while I cannot with certainty point to a particular instance in which the change occurred, the results are very evident. In this essay, I shall discuss two different types of music so as to exemplify my changing taste in music over the years. I shall examine the various factors that may have led to or positively influenced this change in taste. From my childhood years, I have been exposed to the country genre of music. This was mostly due to my parents who were avid fans of most of the classical country tunes by the likes of Dolly Parton and Don Williams. Despite this early exposure to country music, this music genre never made a lasting impact on me. As soon as I could choose my own music preferences, I withdrew from it until finally it was but a distant memory in my mind. The first genre of music that I can consider my own was Rhythm and Blues (RnB). The core factor that made this genre have such a strong appeal to me was the fact that I did not share it with anyone else in my family. RnB therefore made me feel different from my parents and therefore to some extent special. In my outside world setting, RnB was more of a class status as it marked me off to belong to a certain group in my school. In retrospective, I admit that RnB may never have been me “own genre of music” since my love for it was brought about by the peer influence. Regardless of the primary reasons for my listening to RnB, with time I grew to embrace it and love the genre as only a true fan can. Its lighthearted beats and catchy choruses were a source of joy and I constantly hummed to the latest tunes that were playing on the radio. I can still vividly recall searching for the lyrics to songs by the likes of R. Kelly and chanting them, albeit in the wrong tone and tempo, with my like minded friends. In the last three years, I have noticed that my taste in music has shifted from RnB to Celtic. While this does not mean that I have altogether forsaken it, the Rhythm and Blues genre no longer captivates me and I cannot picture myself dedicated any significant amount of time to it. Ironically, I would not have consciously listened to Celtic music in my earlier years. In the few instances that I chanced to listen to it, I found it awfully dreary and the fact that there lacked a catchy only made the matter worse. The diction of most of the artists in this genre was mostly unclear and as such, there was no motivation for me to pay any attention to this music. However, all this has greatly changed with time. At present, most of the music that I listed to is Celtic and I find myself taking the time to search for the lyrics of my favorite songs so as to better appreciate the music. My discovery of this genre of music was mostly as a result of the experiences in my life. The many activities that I involve myself in resulted in my interacting with a wide variety of people who have differing tastes in almost all aspects of life: from clothes and colors to religion and politics. These people exposed me to different kinds of music that I would otherwise never have cared to listen to. It is from one of these encounters that I discovered the Celtic genre. While discovering the Celtic genre was a function of my experiences, my love for the music can mostly be attributed to my education. From my literature classes, I have gained a deeper appreciation of poetry and folklore. Most of Celtic music as performed by artists such as Enya and Loreena Mckenitt is presented in a poetic manner and the stories told therein have a complex plot that appeals to one’s intellect. This genre therefore ceases to be just bright tunes and catchy phrases but takes on a more intricate role as one gets to appreciate the poetic prowess of the artists. In addition to this, the music contains a wide range of instruments and the rich sound produced is a welcome change from the monotonous RnB sounds. In this paper, I set out to discuss two different types of music that highlight my changing taste through the years. To this end, I have discussed the Rnb and Celtic genre. The reasons for my change have been identified and the changing process showcased. As I stated at the beginning of this paper, the only invariable thing in life is change. As such, I acknowledge that my current taste in music may change over time. However, I am at the moment content with the Celtic genre which I feel is inspiring, entertaining and intellectually stimulating. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Meanwhile, even the gems of a size of a toenail can reveal a back story worth of at least a novel adaptation. Despite their huge price, diamonds are produced in the poorest countries, which makes the latter even poorer and, therefore, contributes to the conflicts within these countries, as well as strikes with the hypocrisy of the promotion campaigns of major diamond-producing companies, e.g., De Beers. De Beers’ Advertising Campaign: The Pinnacle of Promotional Hypocrisy It must be admitted that the video offered by Schmuddelfinger (2012) is truly astonishing – watching the history of diamonds production and of the world’s greatest jewelry companies is really exciting. Moreover, it is extremely gripping to track the history of the African countries where the raw materials being produced. However, when it comes to the most striking element of the movie, it goes without saying that the contrast between the poverty of the African countries and the riches which are located there is the most astonishing thing. Even though it is clear that it is practically impossible to process diamonds and produce jewelry in Africa, the contrast between the images of the poor African diamond miners and the jewelry advertisement campaigns developed by De Beers raises the shock values rather high. Concerning the Conflict Trap: When Rebels Rise Another peculiar aspect of the African diamond trade concerns the conflict trap. It seems that at certain point, digging for diamonds developed into a peculiar cycle of increasing conflict within the country. As Schmuddelfinger (2012) explains, the money obtained from digging for diamonds was used in the least appropriate way possible: “In Sierra Leone, in the 1990s, our UF rebels used revenue from diamonds to fund a brutal civil war” (Schmuddelfinger, 2012). Hence, the case of African diamonds is a clear-cut instance of a typical conflict trap described by Collier. “Once the war has begun, the economic damage undoes the growth achieved during peace” (Collier, 2007, 33). Repeated in a cycle, the phenomenon leads to the ultimate decay, which can be the case of the African countries supplying diamonds for the rest of the world. Natural Resources Trap: Exploring the Paradox It is also striking that the African countries exporting diamonds suffer from what Collier defined as the “natural resources trap” (Collier, 2007, 38). According to Schmuddelfinger (2012), “What created the value in diamonds is withholding the supply, making sure that the supply is regulated ad there’s never a flood of diamonds on the market, that’s one thing that De Bees did” (Schmuddelfinger, 2012). Hence, the conflict for the resources was created, which also contributed to the African countries’ poverty. Conclusion: The Treasure Trove Has Been Discovered Therefore, these are not the resources that a certain country has, but its position in the chart of the world’s most influential states. Even with its truly incredible amount of resources and the richest mines of diamonds, the above-mentioned African countries remain among some of the world’s poorest states. Moreover, it seems that, without their resources, these countries would have never taken such low positions. Since other countries managed to take the control of one of Africa’s key riches, the countries are permanently in the conflict trap and natural resources trap, which can be solved only with the help of reconsidering the national strategies. Reference List Collier, P. (2007). The bottom billion: Why the poorest countries are failing and what can be done about it. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press. Schmuddelfinger (2012). Blood diamonds – the true story . Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Tax Consequences Advice Sue of the Above Transactions Report Table of Contents 1. Issue 2. Rule 3. Application 4. Conclusion 5. Reference List Issue * Has Sue been paying her tax on rent? If yes, has she been receiving rent from the house? * Does Sue make any taxable income as a result of selling the rental house and the land? * Does the tax system of her country tax capital gains? * Can Sue be treated as a resident or a non-resident and does the tax system involved treat them differently? * Are buildings and land depreciated? * Does the tax system in question allow for depreciation to be deducted before arriving at the taxable income? * Does the tax system in question allow women to pay their taxes separately or do their husbands file collective tax returns for their families? Rule The information provided is not sufficient for one to tell if Sue has been receiving rent and if yes, she has been paying her tax. We cannot tell if Sue is a resident or non-resident since we are not told anything about her citizenship, permanent home or the number of days she has stayed in the country. In most tax systems, capital gains are not taxed but this country’s tax system taxes capital gain. The capital gain is taxed after allowing for a discount depending on the entity being taxed. For partnerships, a discount of 50 percent is allowed before dividing the capital gains among the individuals for tax purposes (Lasser, 2012). Companies are taxed on their capital gains but after receiving a discount of 50 percent on the gains. Individuals receive a slightly higher discount on the capital gains before subjecting them to capital gains tax. They are allowed to deduct a discount of 75 percent of the capital gains before taxing them. Usually both buildings and land are not depreciated instead they appreciate in value with time. Depreciation is not an allowable expense in most tax systems and in this case, it is not clear whether it is an allowable expense. However, capital allowance is a uniform allowable deduction that is used to replace depreciation and it is meant to encourage investments. It is issued to those who indulge in particular investments (Barkoczy 2013). Women are not allowed to file separate tax returns unless they do not meet any of the specified conditions according to the laws of most countries. They are only allowed to file their returns separately when they are not married or have separated with their husbands in a manner that shows no signs of getting back together in the future. They are also given a chance to be taxed separately when their husbands are not residents of the country in question. Thus, they have an option of filing separate returns when they earn their income. On the issue of the transaction; it is clear that Sue makes some profit upon selling the land and the house. The profit is obtained as shown in the calculation below: Sue should pay a tax on the $300,000 capital gain which is taxable income obtained from the transaction. The tax amount she should pay depends on the taxation rates for an individual in her country. If her country allows personal relieve then she should set it off from the gross tax and pay the net tax obtained. The capital gain obtained from Sue has to be allowed a discount of 75% before subjecting it to any taxes because Sue is an individual. The exact value as calculated above is $900, 000. In this case, Sue’s husband is not brought into the picture although it appears like the capital gain income is at arm’s length. Therefore, Sue should be allowed to file a separate tax return (Barkoczy 2013). Application The law requires any income obtained in a country to be taxed although this depends on whether one is a resident or a non-resident. For non-residents, the rule of taxing income at the source applies and their income is also subjected to final withholding tax at the source. The percentage depends on the rates of the country in which the non-resident person earned that income. No personal reliefs are allowed on the withholding tax. For residents, different rates apply. The rates for most countries are retrogressive and depend on the income bracket of an individual. Personal relief is allowed to the residents and it is deducted from the gross tax to arrive at the final tax (Nethercott and Devos 2012). Conclusion It is not clear from the information provided whether Sue is a resident or a non-resident. However, one thing is clear that she earns some income in the country. The taxable income earned is $300,000 and it is to be taxed. The amount of tax she will pay depends on her status of residence. If she has also been receiving rent and has not been paying her taxes, she should pay the tax together with the penalties stipulated in the laws of the country but if the country allows personal reliefs to its residents, then she will be allowed to deduct a personal relief from the gross tax liability before arriving at the net tax liability. Reference List Barkoczy, S 2013, Foundations of Taxation Law (5 th Ed.), CCH Australia Limited, Sydney. Barkoczy, S 2013, Tax Legislation and Study Guide (16 th Ed.), CCH Australia Limited, Sydney. Lasser, K 2012, Your Income Tax 2013: For Preparing Your, 2012 Tax Return , Wiley & Sons, London. Nethercott, R and Devos, T 2012, Taxation Study Manual , CCH Australia Limited, Sydney. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Sociology of Film “The Last Emperor” by Bertolucci Essay This paper is about the film “The last Emperor” by Bertolucci which tells the story of the last emperor of China Pu Yi. It can be supposed that telling the story of an emperor is describing the life of a man with great power. Nevertheless, following the story of Pu Yi, it turns out that this emperor never had a power at all. The film shows that Pu Yi never was responsible for any action or event whether in his life or the life of people in China. Furthermore, the image shown of the emperor in the film is a prisoner like image even before he was cast in prison. He indeed enjoyed some luxury life through the years when he was not in prison, but this luxury was brought to him in a way that kept him as a symbol or an icon which was put merely for decoration. Following the previous analysis I can say that I truly feel sorry for him because he was put in the position that imprisoned him not by his will or his actions. Even before he was abdicated, while an emperor he was stripped from the simplest rights that were given to other children, i.e. the right to leave his house. Another reason for feeling sorry for him is that he was completely helpless as a grown man. As he was served from his childhood, he was not used and taught to do the simplest things like tying his shoes or filling a glass of water, which made him feel powerless. It turned out that he was happy the most, when he served as an ordinary gardener later in his life when he took some control over his fate. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Certain roles are ascribed to men and women, and the majority of people consider these roles to be rules. However, there are also those who believe that it is wrong to assign some functions to females and other functions to males. Even with enormous progress in technology, science, and society, it must be doubted “very much that sexual equality has been reestablished on Earth” (Russ 7). In Russ’s short story, femininity on Whileaway develops in a cultural environment that enables women to choose the roles they wish and inspires them to feel free from gender prejudices. For many centuries, women have been considered to be destined to look after their families, children, and husbands, while men are viewed as strong, powerful, and independent bread-winners. Despite the reconsideration of traditional duties for men and women, there are still many biases associated with gender. Because of inequality, it is complicated for women to have success in politics, law, engineering, and other such careers. Meanwhile, men continue to be treated as invulnerable, which makes it very difficult for them to seek emotional and social support. Russ’s story depicts opposition to the traditional division of gender roles. Women living on Whileaway do not divide chores into men’s and women’s tasks because after a plague had killed all men there, only the female population remained. Thus, the range of characteristics of the planet’s inhabitants includes all features pertaining to both genders. Some women are “very fair, very shy, always painfully blushing” (Russ 2). Others can give “a cold, level, venomous look” (Russ 2) and have muscles “like metal bars” (Russ 6). Because of the particular environment on the planet, it seems evident that gender is a construct created by society. On Whileaway, the development of femininity has been affected by the cultural environment. Women living on this planet had no choice but to share all kinds of duties without considering any of them too easy or too difficult. They even created a method of reproducing without men through the process of “merging of ova” (Russ 4). Because there is no role division, everyone is equal, and every citizen can do what she prefers. The only regret the narrator mentions is that “artists can practice full-time only in old age” (Russ 3). Still, as far as the other spheres of these women’s lives is concerned, they are quite satisfied with what they have. Thus, when several male astronauts arrive from Earth, the population of Whileaway is not happy and feels anxious. The primary reason is that the visitors do not even consider the planet to be normal, saying that that “kind of society is unnatural” (Russ 5). It can be seen that while the femininity of Whileaway’s people has been influenced by the cultural context, the masculinity of the visitors is governed by biology. A biased attitude toward the division of gender roles is evident in almost everything the visitors say. The intonation of one man’s question, “Where are all the people?” makes it clear to the narrator that he means “men” (Russ 3). This is the first and probably most blatant indication of the visitors’ inability to treat women as equals, even though the men continuously mention that gender equality has been achieved on Earth. The biological government of astronauts’ masculinity is demonstrated in many other cases. For instance, when one of them says, “You’ve adapted amazingly,” referring to the absence of men, the narrator is surprised that the visitor regards living without men as a tremendous loss (Russ 4). Another example of biological rather than cultural impact on the astronauts’ masculinity is their comment about the marriages of Whileaway’s citizens. A man says that a couple consisting of two women is “a good economic arrangement” because they both work and take care of children (Russ 5). These and other instances demonstrate that the visitors’ masculinity is driven only by biology, and they cannot understand how women managed to survive without men for such a long time. Russ’s “When It Changed” is an impressive depiction of inequality between the genders based on biological characteristics. Whereas females on Whileaway are driven by cultural environment, the visitors are governed by biology. Numerous instances of men’s deprecation of women signify that equality between the genders has not yet been attained. The author demonstrates that the world could be more harmonious if there are no prejudices and when people’s functions are not divided into men’s and women’s roles. Work Cited Russ, Joanna. When It Changed . 1972. Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
Chinese and Taiwanese Nationalism Essay The development of nationalism in contemporary China and Taiwan alike illustrates the modernist theory of nationalism as an imagined community constructed through shared perceptions rather than an immanent entity rooted in blood and soil. Taiwan provides a good example of how national identity may be constructed despite the ethnic differences of the country’s population. According to Dreyer et al. (2003), the democratized Taiwan after 1986 began building a “new Taiwanese identity” intended to unite the long-time inhabitants of the island and the newcomers from the mainland into a cohesive nation (para. 4). Hughes (2019) also confirms this assessment by demonstrating how the political effort development of this new identity relies on the idea of shared destiny rather than potentially divisive ethnic origins. Similarly, the developing Chinese nationalism – and, in particular, the rise of popular ziganwu bloggers – can be explained through patriotic education programs stressing common Chinese identity (Wong, 2021). Given the fact that the People’s Republic is even more ethnically diverse than Taiwan, it highlights even more how the national identity is constructed despite objective differences rather than imminently present throughout history. In terms of the Sino-Taiwanese relations, this parallel development of national identities may further complicate Chinese plans of reunification. Dreyer et al. (2003) note that the Taiwanese political nation is not yet fully formed, and, moreover, representing Taiwanese society as strictly separated into pro-unification and anti-unification camps would be an oversimplification. In purely ethnic terms, there may be little difference between the Nationalists and Communists for the Taiwanese since both are mainland Chinese. However, if Taiwan succeeds in creating a shared feeling of nationhood uniting the Taiwanese and mainland newcomers, it may pose yet another challenge to China’s pursuit of unification in not only ethnic but national terms. References Dreyer, J. T., Gold, T. B., Rigger, S., & Tkacik, J. J. The evolution of a Taiwanese national identity . Web. Hughes, C. R. (2019). Revisiting Taiwan and Chinese nationalism: Identity and status in international society. In Fell, D. & Hsiao, H. H. M. (Eds.), Taiwan studies revisited [ePub version]. Retrieved from Google Play. Wong, T. (2021). China: The patriotic ‘ziganwu’ bloggers who attack the West . Web. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
The Essay “Ideas of Nature” by Raymond Williams Essay Thesis The ideas of nature and the relationships humans share with it are too complex and multi-layered to be summarized in a singular concept or definition. However, the tendency of humankind to separate itself from nature is dysfunctional and can lead to humanity alienating itself. Synopsis Raymond Williams’s essay details the evolution of humanity’s ideas of what constitutes nature and its relationships with this concept. First, he recalls the associations between the word “nature” and the essential qualities that lie in the foundation of all things (Williams 1980, 68). Then, he proceeds to outline the different understandings of nature and its principles in chronological order. The abstracted and personified idea of “Mother Nature” (Williams 1980, 69) has in the nineteenth century began to shift towards the image of a machine with fixed laws of motion. In understanding nature as a construction, man has placed himself in the center of the system, which has fuelled humanity’s willingness and capacity to intervene (Williams 1980, 75). As the man began to transform, exploit, and conquer natural habitats, the new idea of nature emerged, the wilderness, untouched by humans. Recognizing the connections between theories and assumptions about nature helps to understand the thought process behind them and its relationship with human history. However, its main importance lies in an analysis of how the separation between nature and men is ideologically incompatible with developing new, accountable relationships with the natural world (Williams 1980, 85). Comments Williams’s account of the evolution of ideas about nature is especially valuable within the provided social and philosophical context. He puts personification and mechanization of nature in perspective by linking it to the view of God as the ultimate creator, common for the Christian world throughout history. In later segments, Williams mentions the capitalist approach to any available resources as raw materials and how it resulted in men viewing themselves as conquerors of the natural world. This adds a socioeconomic layer of analysis to the contemporary perceptions of nature and is helpful in dissecting the environmentally damaging ramifications of this approach. The article depicts the idea of separating human and natural as inherently alienating for humankind. It highlights the dysfunction of putting these concepts in opposition and competition by focusing on the way these tactics help humans to avoid responsibility for their actions against nature. After nature is conceptualized in the public consciousness as “all that is not man,” the possibility of developing a functional relationship with the environment is severed. Williams traces this idea back to its origins to highlight the artificiality of this division, just as he concludes the border between economics and ecology to be artificial as well. Williams concludes the article by stating the necessity of conceptualizing a new understanding of nature to shift the way humanity interacts with the physical world and to evolve further. Such necessity is well-articulated as the analysis of the current approach and its history ties this image of nature to the consumptive attitude humanity has developed towards its environment. Furthermore, this approach is revealed to be effectively dishonest as it ignores the complexity of humans as biosocial beings. As these ideas have historically evolved alongside general social realities, it is now time for humans to enter a new stage in their understanding of nature. | human | 0 | 0 | 0 | human |
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