12 Angry Men Structural Elements

How does Rose use structural elements to strengthen his examination of the judicial system? Rose uses the structural elements of the play to further his position, critiquing the flaws of the judicial system. 12 Angry Men takes place in ‘real time', which allows for the play's characters to further develop and creates a sense of realism. The characters of the play are representative of the play's message, that decisions such as the one the jurors must make are important, and cannot be viewed with apathy and walked away from. The apathy and prejudice that most of the jurors possessed when they initially made their decisions is something that Rose intended to criticise, as this same apathy and prejudice was clearly in 1950's society, and may divert the judicial processes. In the beginning, the 8th juror is the only one who feels sympathy for the boy being persecuted, believing that if he is to be sentenced to death in an electric chair then his case at least needs to be treated with empathy and caution, rather than carelessly putting the case behind in the quickest fashion and moving on, from apathy or prejudice. Over the course of the play the jurors realise that this is something they cannot walk away from, that they cannot escape from, and something that they must dedicate themselves to, they realise that the life of a young, poor boy, who lived in the slums and suffered from an abusive and harsh childhood is more important than what lies beyond the courtroom doors, and the fact that not only does the play take place in ‘real time', but also largely takes place in one setting, better yet, one room, only conveys this feeling of the realisation that apathy is not the solution. They are trapped, isolated from the freedom of their lives, and the apathy or prejudiced that may have been a part of their lives, and confronted with the care they must have for the life of someone else. The washroom exists as an escape for them, a place for their true thoughts, where even the apathy and hatred within them may return, but in the end it is connected the private room in which they vote, in the end they cannot simply decide whether a boy lives or dies based on that same apathy or hatred, it should be a lengthy and important process that should take into consideration the facts and the gravity of their decision, and not be influenced or diverted by the views of the people making that decision. Rose believes that the judicial system is flawed, yet by creating characters such as the 8th juror, the protagonist and also the first dissenter, he also believes that the judicial system is one that would be able to function with a treatment of empathy, severity and importance. By having the characters all change their decision, through empathy and the realisation of the importance of their vote, he suggests that this is the solution, rather than the personal lives, views or beliefs influencing and making the decision in a judicial process, in particular, one as severe and brutal as the one in the play.

External and Internal factors at Sony Ericsson Essay

Sony Ericsson In 2001 telecommunications leader Ericsson and the Sony Corporation joined forces to establish Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications. Because of this joint venture, Sony Ericsson recognized sales of over seven billion dollars in the first year. This was mainly because the combined mobile phone business company now offered a range of mobile communication products that went far beyond the simple mobile phone technology of its time. Marketing Marketing, more than any other business function, deals with customers. Creating customer value and satisfaction is at the very heart of modern marketing. Marketing is the delivery of customer satisfaction at a profit. Sound marketing is critical to the success of every organization–large or small, for profit or non-profit, domestic or global. Large for-profit firms such as Sony use marketing. This is where globalization, technology, and ethics come into play. Global Marketing The world is shrinking rapidly with the advent of faster communication, transportation, and financial flows. Products developed in one country are finding enthusiastic acceptance in other countries. In fact, international trade is booming. Since 1969, the number of multinational corporations in the world’s fourteen richest countries has more than tripled. According to Business Week, written by Gail Edmondson, â€Å"many U.S. companies have long been successful at international marketing: Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, IBM, Xerox, Corning, Gillette, Colgate, General Electric, Caterpillar, Ford, Kodak, 3M, Boeing, and dozens of other American firms have made the world their market. And in the United States, names such as Sony, Toyota, Norelco, and Mercedes have become household words† (Edmondson, G., 2000). Globalization has become the increasing tendency of the world to act as one market. Technological advances in travel and communications are the driving  force behind market globalization. For instance, new communication technologies, such as the ones offered by Sony Ericsson, allow people and/or teams from all over the world to work on projects and share information without leaving their desks. At the same time, advanced technologies allow manufacturers to produce their goods in foreign locations that offer an abundant supply of low-cost labor (Mescon, M, Courtland, B., & Thill, J., 1999) Innovation Companies today need to take advantage of their innovative capabilities to develop new businesses. Without exploiting the potential idea of innovation, companies will not be prepared for the effects of new technology, demanding customers and globalization. To keep up with the fast-paced world of mobile communications technology, Sony Ericsson will need to combine telecommunication solutions with proven entertainment technology to be considered the forefront of telecommunication innovation. However, there are difficult challenges that Sony Ericsson must go through to bring to the market a stream of improved products and services that enable the business to achieve higher profits. Incorporating innovative ideas and new technologies is the key for a successful business to compete effectively in the global environment. In the past year, Sony Ericsson has launched groundbreaking products for their mobile technology. The success of the company comes from the distinction of other companies in terms of design, imaging, and applications. With a unique combination of Sony’s digital imaging and Ericsson’s mobile platform, Sony Ericsson seems to have the upper hand in coming out with the latest technology to meet consumer demand. With any advancements of innovation, design is a key step to initiate any innovative ideas. Sony Ericsson takes pride in their industrial designers because of the importance to impress consumers with never-before-seen looks and groundbreaking technology. From the birth of an idea to the launch of the product, Sony Ericsson’s  designers monitor the progress of the product systematically, making sure the innovative idea keeps its shape and stays new. Designers will also need to keep a close eye on any changing trends in the mobile communication market as they can inspire as well as influence the elements of innovative design. Sony Ericsson continues to innovate in design and newly launched products to strengthen its reputation as a design leader. In addition, the company strives to be a cutting edge provider of applications, creating partnerships with software developers and content providers to meet everyday consumer demand. Technologies Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications offers services globally to a communication market with high end, state-of-the-art mobile phone equipment, accessories, PC-cards, and M2M (Machine-to-Machine) technology. Our computer era is about making people more productive in the working environment. It is a technology that is geared to help people interact with other people through the aid of always on computers, communication, and powerful high bandwidth. The M2M communications technology is going to be different in the sense that it will allow electronic devices to interact with people and other devices. This will not require as big a bandwidth as computers use now days. This technology features higher reliability and efficiency, and it also enables users to remotely access and manage other array of equipment without having to move around or keeping a technical staff. This type of technology is presently being used by Sony Ericsson and is evolving rapidly particularly in the area of wireless equipment. M2M is also used for business applications such as: Security and emergency response Mission-critical uptime Optimized logistics Management resources Mobility and collaboration Personalization and customization Another of the latest popular technologies is called Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA). This is a technology for wideband digital radio communications of Internet, multimedia, video and other capacity-demanding applications. WCDMA is the dominating 3G (3rd. Generation) technology, providing higher capacity for voice and data and higher data rates. WCDMA uses a new spectrum with a 5 MHz carrier, providing 50 times higher data rate than in present GSM networks (and 10 times higher data rate than in GPRS networks) WCDMA handles up to 2 Mbps for local area access or 384 Kbps for wide area access. A coming release will include enhancements up to more than 10 Mbps. WCDMA is also known as UMTS and has been adopted as a standard by the ITU under the name IMT-2000 direct spread (Ericsson, 2004). Multimedia Messaging Service technology is another feature found in many Sony Ericsson’s communication devices of today. This feature enables users to send/receive multimedia messaging. MMS technology applies to communication applications, information, and entertainment. Because of the nature of the applications, MMS is especially helpful because it is designed for time critical situations, such as sport and other breaking news, alerts, stock market developments, etc. MMS also optimizes video images, video and audio signals in real time. Ethics In order to understand how Sony Ericsson Industries became a company gripped  in ethical and social responsibility, one must first look at its history and mission. In an article on the World Wide Web, â€Å"A Study of Smart phones† it talks about some of the history of Ericsson. Back in June of 1998, Ericsson made Symbian a privately independent company. Ericsson had one mission and that was, â€Å"To provide solutions to communication needs† (Ericsson, 2004). Ericsson made an ethical decision and commitment to the diversified customer base to always provide the end user with user friendly, expedient, business savvy computer compatible phones that severed and performed a wide variety of uses. That mission statement and ethical commitment grew, as did the Symbian coalition, which eventually included companies such as Matsushita, Motorola, Nokia, and Psion’s. With this new collaboration of world leading communication players came the new mission, which was, â€Å"To set the standard for mobile wireless operating systems and to enable a mass market for wireless information devices† (Grey Matter India, 2004). In 1998, Sony Ericsson had implemented the objective mission into the organization. In 2001, another mission was reborn. This mission statement focus was on the needs and wants of the consumer that included and embraced the ethics and the social responsibilities in present day. In 2001, the headlines stated â€Å"Welcome to Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications.† Then in October of 2001, Sony published on its website its new mission, which was â€Å"Our mission is to establish Sony Ericsson as the most attractive and innovative global brand in the mobile handset industry† (Ericsson, 2004). They went on to publish there social responsibility statement, which stated, â€Å"It is Sony Ericsson’s policy to behave in a socially and ethically exemplary way and to operate business in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Sony Ericsson believes in respect for human rights and in the ethical treatment of all employees† (Ericsson, 2004). The Joint Venture Whether a company is small or large, there comes a time when a company needs to shift the way the company is managed. Large companies, such as Sony Ericsson, have been using self-directed work teams for years to improve quality, increase productivity, raise morale, lower costs, and boost  motivation. A self-directed work team is a group of workers from different functional areas of a company who work together as a unit largely without supervision, making decisions, and performing task that once belonged only to managers. However, it is important to note, that managers in companies using teams, such as Sony Ericsson, do not just sit around drinking coffee. In fact, they work just as hard as before, but the nature of their work changes dramatically. â€Å"Managers at Sony Ericsson take on roles of coaches who empower those around them to make decisions affecting their work and share information with workers. As facilitators, their job is to support and to serve the teams functioning in the organization and to make sure they produce results† (Ericsson, 2004). References Edmondson, G. (2000, August 28). See the world, erase its borders. Business Week, pp. 113-114. Ericsson. (2004). About Ericsson. Retrieved February 20, 2005 from the World Wide Web: http://www.ericsson.com/about/ Ericsson. (2004). Technologies. WCDMA. Retrieved February 20, 2005 from the World Wide Web: http://www.ericsson.com/technology/ Gray Matter India. (2004). Smartphones. White Paper, pg. 8. Retrieved February 21, 2005 from the World Wide Web: www.greymatterindia.com/downloads/Whitepaper_Rise%20_of_Smartphones.pdf. Mescon, M., Courtland, B., Thill, J. (1999). Business Today, 203. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall

Employment Relations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Employment Relations - Essay Example (Taylor & Bain, 2005) In Australia, the legislation change further decentralised employee relations systems to provide employers considerable power in their ability to dismiss employees and to promote individual contracts without the protection of awards and collective agreements. There is an increase at the international level for employers using contractual employees and require longer working hours in their quest of labour flexibility. There is an assumption that labor markets are not purely competitive, and when you compare this assumption to the mainstream economic theory, employers have more negotiating power than employees do. It is also assumed that there are natural conflicts between employers and employees, for example, high profits without increase in wages could cause conflicts hence conflicts are viewed as a vital part of the employment relationship. Since labor markets are seen as imperfect and employment relationships include conflicts of interest, workers cannot depen d on markets or their superiors to protect their rights, and in extreme cases to prevent worker exploitation. Therefore, institutions need support in the endeavor to protect rights of workers. Narrow Focus In many organizations, an issue that arises out of industrial relations is a narrow focus by the employees of the organization. Employees or staff members may view tasks at hand as duties they have to perform to complete their job rather than viewing how the role the employee plays benefits the organization as a whole. Many employees simply see their managers as someone who tells them what to do rather than as a facilitator that can help them achieve their own professional goals as well as bring the company to a point where it achieves the goals of the business. Inflexibility of Employer An inflexible employer stifles the employees’ creativity and when employees feel as if their creativity is being stifled or that their opinions do not matter, it can cause rivalry between t he employees and management of the organization. When creativity is squashed, it causes the company to lack in innovation, which ultimately leads to incompetence of the company in the marketplace. Employers that allow employees to participate in running the company by allowing suggestions and feedback from the employees and even empowering employees to take on more responsibility for the route the business takes, typically enjoys a more successful employment relations environment. Thus, the poor pay package of employees at Rio Tinto and its inflexibility as an employer has adverse effects on its employment relations (Hannan, 2011). Division Another issue that directly relates to employment relations environment is an â€Å"us against them† attitude in terms of Rio Tinto and its employees. Employees have the notion that there is a great segregation between them and the management or their superiors in the workplace. This division between the two groups of a business has caused a lot of issues such as contract negotiation problems, strikes and the required intervention of trade and labor unions. When management and employees can relate and communicate with each other, they easily solve their problems, such as not being able to negotiate work contract

An Economic Concern In A South American Country Assignment

An Economic Concern In A South American Country - Assignment Example Over the past eight years, it experienced its single drop in GDP in the year 2009 when GDP fell by 0.6 percent. This was caused by the global recession that year. But it was one of the fastest to recover. In 2010, GDP grew by 7.5 percent and for 2011; it is expected to grow 5.6 percent. Moreover, for the next five years, barring any severe external shocks like another global recession, Brazil’s economy is expected to grow by 5.5 – 6 percent (EconomyWatch Content, 2010). Much of this growth comes from the services sector. It accounts for the biggest slice of total GDP with 67.5 percent. About 66 percent of the country’s labor force is employed in this sector (EconomyWatch Content, 2010). Major industries comprising this sector include telecommunications, energy, banking, commerce and computing services. In the field of energy, Brazil is one of the largest producers of hydroelectric power. It is also the ninth largest oil producer in the world. In the field of bank ing, large foreign banks have made huge investments in the country (EconomyWatch Content, 2010). The manufacturing industry is another large contributor to GDP with 26.4 percent of the total GDP pie and employs 14 percent of total labor force. Industries found in the country are automobile and parts, machinery and equipment, petrochemicals, computers, aircraft, textiles, steel, cement and consumer durables (EconomyWatch Content, 2010). Making up ten percent of total GDP is the export sector valued at USD 201.9 billion in 2010 (Gorn, n.d.). The bulk, or 60 percent, of its exports are manufactured and semi-manufactured goods. Commodities like oil, soy, coffee, iron ore and steel has also helped increase total exports. Lastly, Brazil is touted as the world’s largest producer of coffee, sugarcane, tropical fruits and orange juice, and has the largest cattle herd in the world (EconomyWatch Content, 2010). Other agricultural products are soybeans, tobacco, cocoa, corn, cotton and f orest products. Agriculture contributes 6.1 percent of GDP and employs 20 percent of the labor force (EconomyWatch Content, 2010). 4) What are 2–3 relationships between the economic concern you selected and that specific country's economy? Brazil’s growing economy has created a total of 14 million jobs since 2003 (EconomyWatch Content, 2010). Increases in GDP means that goods and services produced by businesses were being bought either by the local market or by the export market. And businesses have responded by increasing supply through the formation of new businesses or expansion of existing businesses. This therefore leads to higher employment rates. Thus, the unemployment rate has significantly gone down over the years. While unemployment increased from 7.9 percent in 2008 to 8.1 percent in 2009, this was mainly due to the slowdown in the global economy. However, in 2010 unemployment again dropped to 6.7 percent (EconomyWatch Content, 2010). The main benefit of hig her employment is higher incomes for the people in general. With higher incomes comes better quality of life. Comparing the per capita figures for 2009 and 2010, per capita income rose by 7.5 percent for the period (EconomyWatch Content, 2010). This has translated to higher demand for goods and services. With more money in people’s hands, generally, people’s tendency is to spend, which again redounds to the benefit of

Motivation Statement Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Motivation Statement - Assignment Example I want to pursue an employment position with Sony Corporation as this would allow me the flexibility to choose between the different paths available under the graduate entry scheme. The fact that the corporation offers me the option to choose either a career in the Research and Development or Engineering section or any of the other career paths after the mandatory year in training makes the position attractive to me. The first year needs to be spent in the Graduate Entry scheme with the corporation providing me the necessary acclimatization and the consequent career choices that are available. The current state of the Electronics industry offers much scope for innovation and quality control with the latest efforts in Six Sigma and Zero Defect initiatives offering graduates with expertise in quality certifications the chance to move up the ladder. Since I have undergone several courses related to quality control, I believe that I have the skills to carry out the necessary audits and programs designed to train personnel towards Quality control. Thus, I believe that I have the necessary background to specialize in these fields. The focus of Sony corporation’s efforts towards quality control dovetails with my own emphasis on the same and I would like to be part of the initiative and apply whatever I have learned so far. The Electronics industry is highly quality conscious and it is in this field that I plan to work and give my best towards the efforts to maintain quality. Finally, my understanding of the current economic situation is that the Industry would devote more time to innovation and productivity and I hope to maximize my utility to the company given the emphasis that I have placed in these fields till now. Thus, I would like to be part of the corporation’s graduate entry program. I hope my skills and expertise would be rewarded for doing so.

Greek Art Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Greek Art - Essay Example It also absorbed ideas from Italian and European arts during the Romantic period. These ideas invigorated the Greek revolution which is, arguably, still taking place today. Greek art is made up of five forms which include: pottery, painting, architecture, jewelry making and sculpture (Maphosa 4). Modern Greek art is as a result of gradual development of the ancient which started during the Romantic period. Many of its elements were absorbed from other European arts and consequently culminated in a unique Greek Romantic art style (Smith and Plantzos 633). This was inspired by the country’s history and geography as well as revolutionary ideals. After the end of the Ottoman rule, education opportunities in arts were limited in independent Greece and, therefore, many Greece artists studied abroad. Majority of the Greece artists of the 19th century studied at Munich International Center for arts (Smith and Plantzos 698). After graduation, they returned to Greece and shared their knowledge with the Greek community. This led to the development of personal and academic bonds between Munich artistry and early Greek painters which in turn gave birth to the Greek Munich School of painting. Nikolaos Gysis was one of the great figures in the 19th century Greek art because he acted as both an artist and a teacher at the Munich academy (Smith and Plantzos 700). The Greek art was characterized by realism, academism, landscape painting, still life, genre painting, portraiture of the upper middle class, and impressionists’ features. Later these features were replaced by symbolism and art Nouveau. In the 20th century, Greek art was represented by many artists who were more interested in living conditions, local customs, and everyday Greek life (Norris 174). Many gifted painters emerged such as Theodoros Vryzakis, Nikiphoros Lytras, Georgios Jakobides, and Georgios Roilos among others. Theodoros

A study of why Norway did so much better than UK and Greece in the Dissertation

A study of why Norway did so much better than UK and Greece in the financial crisis - Dissertation Example It is obvious though that government economic policy does shape the quantitative results as can be determined from the GNP and GDP. Because of this, the global financial crisis also highlighted the different approaches that governments employ in managing the economies of their respective countries. The experiences of Norway and Greece expose the fundamental differences in government’s type of leadership in the economic sphere, particularly in finance. While many countries, including the economic powers reeled in the midst of recession, Norway’s economy grew stronger by almost 3 percent while its government enjoyed an 11 percent surplus budget (Thomas 2009). Greece’s economy, on the other hand, started to plummet at the onset of global financial crisis. While Norway, despite its relatively robust economic policies, managed to institute reforms to cushion the impact of the recession, Greece continues to experience worsening social turmoil brought about by the crisi s. The Greek government gets a huge part of the blame as it failed in the area of financial management. According to the Global Financial Integrity analyst Dev Kar, â€Å"over the past decade ending 2009, Greece lost an estimated US$160 billion in unrecorded transfers through its balance of payments† (2010). This extremely blatant example of economic mismanagement is just one of the major factors that have caused the current financial crisis in the Mediterranean country. Further explications of the reasons why Norway fared much better than Greece during the global financial crisis would be presented in this literature review. The development of Norway’s economy took a long and tedious process before it achieved its current healthy conditions. While the uncertainties plagued the country in the decades and centuries before, it has been able to sustain its growth since the 1970s. There were times since the mid-1970s when the growth rate slowed but, compared to the respect ive economies of its European neighbours, Norway’s steady development has been considered as unprecedented. Ola Honningdal Grytten of the Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration points out that there are three major factors that contributed to the economic growth of the country, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries. Grytten identifies these as the country’s richness when it comes to natural resources, its skilled labour force, and its willingness to make use of the latest technology for productive endeavours (2010). In his article, Grytten acknowledges that government policies play a very important role in the maximisation of the said assets. For a long time, since the years of the economy’s rapid development, Norway was led by the Labour party. The Labour-dominated government initiated countercyclical policies which resulted in deindustrialization in the 1970s, a process which many economists, was regressive in essence. Countercyclical policies include the imposition of heavy taxes on business to generate funds for the government, particularly for its welfare programmes. During those times, the country was on the path of becoming one of the most advanced welfare states in Europe. Grytten’

Incorporating Ethical Standards Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Incorporating Ethical Standards - Essay Example That is all that is needed to perform a full background check on the person using advanced HR information technology. A simpler and less digital solution would be to ask each employee for a certificate of good conduct. Performing other medical checks such as blood checks for high cholesterol and another physical test can help the company create a wellness program to increase the quality of life of its employees. 2. Incorporating ethical standards is beneficial in both the creation of contracts and technology information systems. Ethics can be included indirectly in a contract by incorporation clauses that include social corporate responsibility initiatives. For instance, a contract can stipulate that the transportation vehicles used to move merchandise must be green vehicles that use an alternative fuel other than gasoline such as trucks powered by natural gas. Including ethical clauses can serve a social purpose, but often the inclusion of social clauses increase the operating costs of a company. Ethics can help legitimize an information technology system. ... Â  The HR department must incorporate safeguarding protocols to ensure nobody has access to the privilege information written in the contracts. The use of privacy in the workplace can be considered an ethical action. 3. In your response, you mentioned that technology keeps evolving at a rapid rate. I completely agree with your statement. Moore’s Law states that the speed of computing power doubles every two years. As computing power increases the consumer benefits because people are getting better computers at cheaper prices. In certain industries inflation negatively impacting costs. The cost of a developing a new drug during the last five years has increased from $800 million to $1.2 billion. Pharmaceutical companies need to find ways of incorporating technology to lower developmental costs. 4. People that work as telecommuters do not have boundaries at work and personal life become the same. A way for a telecommuter to separate home life and work is by creating a special o ffice in their homes where they perform their work. I believe that ethics is very important for people working as telecommuters. Due to the lack of supervision telecommuters must act ethically and comply with the code of conduct of an organization. It would be unethical for a telecommuter to drink alcohol while performing work for the company. 5. A few years ago I worked at a company that had an IT specialist that often acted very unethical. He was constantly using his access to information to snoop into other employees’ lives.

Social Evils Essay Example for Free

Social Evils Essay Social Evils, as the name suggests means the presence of something or some deeds existing in society which are not acceptable at all. As we know that every society or community across the seven seas has its pros and cons. Therefore, it would be incorrect to perceive that the world is picture perfect. It is a fact Universally acknowledged that no society is free or spared from the presence of Social Evils. These evils manifest themselves in so many ways that a rational human being is perplexed to discover its existence in various forms. Each society comprises of both moral and immoral people. Thereby, we can witness the contamination of the society that vanishes its goodness. It also pertains to the fact that the innocent and moral people are adversely affected as they become the target of suffering and agony. The absence of goodness and nobility in a society gives birth to Social Evils and they pave a way for themselves by overshadowing the minds of people. In the present era, the Social Evils are spreading as fast as fire. It is a renowned phrase that: A filthy fish can contaminate the entire pond. Thus, this proverb aptly suites the modern times. We cannot negate the fact that Social Evils have been present eversince Man has started to exist in groups. Man, who is ironically the higher creation has degenerated himself to such an extent that the entire surrounding in which he lives tends to have a negative impact as well. A man is judged according to his actions. Any conscious person with a sound moral sense is able to notice the vivid deterioration of his or her society. Whether we believe it or not, Social Evils are present around everybody but it is the individuals own choice either to adopt them or to reject and protest against them inorder to create a peaceful and harmonious environment in the society. Each person is nevertheless, aware of the presence of Social Evils and considers them as bad, wrong and unacceptable. Yet, they still follow them despite being conscious of their consequences. However, the question is that what causes their occurance and existence? Social Evils project chaos in the society and so their real causes must be determined.

College Student Pressures Essay Example for Free

College Student Pressures Essay Students committing to the college of their choice are unaware of the peer pressures that arise when one attends school. Many may feel as though peer pressures tend to happen more often when one lives on campus, but it can occur off campus too. For example, peer pressures can lead to partying, drinking and drugs. The want to attend class is a daily pressure because there aren’t any consequences when no attending. Another main college pressure is financial stress. The percentage of partying that goes on throughout college is very high and is a common interest that happens every week. From facing the pressures of to staying and studying for a huge test, friends bothering each other constantly to go out and drink with them and pressure to take drugs to â€Å"have a good time. † These examples happen very often, and it is hard to say no to them, one factor is that friends may say â€Å"you’re no fun†, and making friends feel bad about not going out, and then the students start to not care about studying thinking you don’t need to do it anymore. In high school, going to school every day was a daily routine. Children always did because their parents made them, and if they didn’t, there were consequences. In moving up to going to college, there are no consequences in skipping class. If students skipped then they would miss the lesson of the day, and there is no â€Å"making up the work,† teachers are there to teach and not to babysit, so they could care less if students show up to class or not. This is a main pressure, students think, I don’t need to attend class today, and if they don’t go, there is no punishment or consequence. The common question of how am I going to pay for this, is commonly asked daily in a college students head. Financially pressures are high and rising throughout universities. The stressing and struggle to find enough money to pay for tuition and the costs of books and housing while living at school add up. Even though some student can qualify for financial aid cover the costs only temporary and have to deal with the costs later after graduating. This pressure leads some college students to either drop out or to focus more on working and less on their school work.

Reflection on Demand and change in Nurse Manager

Reflection on Demand and change in Nurse Manager Over the last decade management in nursing has become increasingly demanding (Hyrkas et al 2005). The role of nurse managers has undergone significant change as nurse managers have taken on more administrative roles. Restructuring and specialization of healthcare organizations has had an impact on the role of the nurse manager. If preparation of nurse managers is inadequate, potential for role confusion and role stress increases, undermining role effectiveness in this key position (McCallin Frankson, 2010). Within the hospital and specialized clinic setting a synergy between business practice and clinical practice is vital to the success of the organization. In my experience as a nurse manager, while attending monthly management meetings, I have experienced hospital administrators (CEOs and CFOs) that understand that nurses are essential for a hospital or health clinic to function, and to maintain a high quality of care. But at the same time these administrators express concerns tha t department managers are not as responsive as they would like in relation to alignment with organizational resource management and objectives. In these instances it appears that the administrators and department managers are out of sync in what they understand the job role to be. This perception does not negate the clinical expertise of the manager but may demonstrate a lack of business skill, or understanding of the business objectives and expectations of the role for the clinical manager. Healthcare is a business and, like every business, it needs good management to keep the business connected and running smoothly. The aim of this paper ..As part of my personal development plan, using the example of cardiac care clinics, role challenges are discussed, and implications for nursing management that present a new approach to nurse manager development I will explore the challenges that face nurse managers to better understand the integration of business expectations and the role of the nurse manager in the setting of cardiac care and identify possible improvements that could close perceived training gaps being experienced. I see this knowledge as being helpful in my personal development but also in developing templates to assist other managers to improve as they embark into managing specialty clinics. Healthcare organizations are working to provide optimal care in cost effective ways. The tension between these two objectives is challenging for all levels of management. In my experience with cardiac care, I see nurse managers being challenged to develop optimal planning algorithms, patient satisfaction surveys, or building new clinical paths, such as cardiac care service lines for focused cardiac management. Choices ultimately have to satisfy clinical objectives of optimal care, outstanding communication, collaboration and transparency of information. At the same time organizational issues need to be addressed in order to deliver products and services in a sustainable way (cost effective, evidence based, and state-of-the art). Nurse Managers are required to become experts in the fundamentals of business management which often is beyond the education and experience of a registered nurse (Wright, Rowitz, Merkle, 2000) (Mathena, 2002) (Douglas, 2008). To address these concerns within the setting of a specialized clinic, specialized training and support could be designed to develop the skills and models to support the development of effective nurse managers. As nurses, much of how we learn to manage and lead is learned informally as we advance in our careers. However, this does not mean that it cannot be done better. Management skills may be learnt on the job but are also skills that should not be left to chance. The gap in management and business preparation among nurse managers is an area that could be improved (Noyes, 2002). One argument is that these skills are acquired in the University of Life (Pedler, Burgoyne, Boydell, 2007, p. 13). Education and support of clinical nurse managers received considerable attention in the 1980s, with accounts of preparatory courses which were considered to have been effective at the time (Gould, Kelly, Goldstone, Maidwell, 2001). In the years since much has changed in healthcare. Continuing ill preparedness for nursing management and leadership continues to be documented (Douglas, 2008). As the span of the role has expanded, nurse manager workloads have increased (Lee Cummings, 2008). This can lead to role fatigue that threatens individuals, the role itself, along with the clinical objectives of the cardiac program. The situation is sustained when nurses are promoted into management roles without any formal management training at all (Platt Foster, 2007). In my experience, the cardiac specialty clinic has intense challenges; the scope of the role is wide-ranging. A nurse manager enters a cardiac specialty role with advanced clinical expertise and must promptly become a strategic planner, human resource authority, quasi-business manager, financial analyst, risk manager, operations manager, quality specialist, and clinical expert (Crowther, 2004). Other competencies include staffing management, performance evaluation, team development, delegation, conflict re solution, change management and problem solving (Mathena, 2002). Research suggests that nurse managers receive little management support and little is done to set expectations, track performance, or offer feedback (Tuglan, 2007) Poor access to formal organizational support suggests that a nurse managers management skills are learnt utilizing trial and error methods (Paliadelis, Cruickshank, Sheridan, 2007) To better understand the integration of business expectations and the role of the nurse manager in the setting of cardiac care, I conducted semi-structured discussions with key stake holders and support experts (CMO, CFO, DON, Purchasing Manager, and Nurse Managers). With the permission of the individuals I documented field notes to later review and analyze systematically, to identify recurrent themes and understand perceived gaps existing between the clinical and the business aspects of management within the specialized cardiac clinic. A simple thematic approach was utilized where the notes were coded according to similarities and differences that were grouped into categories and then arranged into themes. Three themes emerged from the notes namely, understanding of the managerial role, management and business training deficits, and a general feeling of management overload. The discussions were structured based on clinic management, operational management, value proposition, market segment, strategic position, and clinical strategy. This structure provided a framework to categorize the differing responses to identify the applicability of clinical and business theory to establish a clearer understanding of the elements required to build a nurse manager development strategy. In understanding the cardiac clinic managers role, administrators acknowledged Within the cardiac arena, healthcare knowledge that nurse managers must possess has changed and continues to change dramatically, these changes are more complex, frequent and rapid than ever before CEO. The clinic managers themselves identified a lack of clarity; comments indicated that the managers role is diverse when compared to the job description. Within the cardiology specialty, the cardiac managers role has become more challenging today than in the past, mainly due to the numerous changes that are occurring in cardiac care today Cardiac Clinic Manager. The lack of preparedness for the role was an area that reinforced what the literature stated. Common comments included: Not all nurse managers are successful in the transition from staff nurse to management. The successful nurse managers achieve results through their ability to develop leadership skills, critical thinking skills, and over time, a development of mutual respect. Director of Cardiac Services. I was the go-to person for the cardiology step down unit; I had good clinical skills, and was promoted into a management position. You could describe my transition as baptism by fire Cardiac Clinic Manager. When asked what a successful nurse manager would look like, the majority of answers indicated that success was interpreted as maintaining staff satisfaction, avoiding patient complications, and dealing with the day to day problems associated with the patient flow through the clinic. Integrating specialized cardiac clinical experience with management skills is identified as challenging, management role descriptions need to be supported and aligned with organizational objectives. I see this as having implications for the development of cardiac clinic nurse managers because if roles are vague managerial communication and leadership will be challenging. The second theme evident was a business management deficit. Business and financial management was identified as being an area of nurse management that made the role demanding. As a manager I have had to manage information technology, finances, human resources, business strategies and organizational operations. This is a very wide subject potentially requiring knowledge of many aspects of business as it relates to, health economics, quality, value, reimbursement, and strategy. Although some nurse managers identified a familiarity with budgeting and performance improvement, they also expressed that these were areas that they had no formal training, and that were viewed as outside of their control. There was no formal business training. My problems are figures, budgets and reports. I was completely computer illiterate, and am not much better today Clinical Manager. Situations were also described where nurse managers dont speak up, or attend organization planning, or strategy meetings, and as a result the organization bypasses them when making key decisions. Nurse Managers are not taught how to influence business practices within a healthcare organization. Many clinic nurse managers dont seem to take ownership of the operational management of their departments Purchasing manager, Several hospital administrators identified that the Nurse Manager are rarely considered experts in the logistics associated with the supply, operational, and fiscal management. Administrators agreed that nurse managers have a difficult position, in that they have 100% accountability for quality care, and productivity within the specialized clinic, but not 100% authority. Connecting the clinical aspect of cardiac services to funding is essential for financial managers to select appropriate working capital strategies to support the overall business strategies and objectives (Marsh 2009). As I consider the nurse mangers role in todays specialized healthcare environment, it is important to place the subject into context of what has happened and what is happening in our field of work, because managers in todays cannot simply emulate managers of the past (Ellis, 2005, p. 3). Key stakeholders (administration, CEO, CFO) interviewed identified that trends in cardiac healthcare are being affected by such things as: the global market place, the impact of information technology, demands for higher quality and faster service, shorter implementation times on healthcare initiatives, increasing specialty focus and disease management customization, external relations: consumers and industry. High expectations challenge managers asked to stretch resources and time beyond what can be effectively managed. Managers speak of feeling overwhelmed. Common comments included: There are not enough hours in the day, to complete the report, budgets, planning and meetings Cardiac Service Line Manager. And Its about what is achievable and what is not you have to deal with it Cardiac Clinic Nurse Manager. Quality management was a phrase that was identified by all, and appears to be a priority in todays healthcare arena, describing a level of management or service. Some philosophers Plato 2500 years ago to Robert Pirsig in 1975, in Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance, argue that quality cannot be defined, that we just know it when we see it. In striving to provide, and document proof of quality services nurse managers are pressured to manage and identify the key performance indicators that would be most valuable and then report formats that would be most useful to users, all with little or no training in this area. The role of todays specialized healthcare manager is seen as even more complicated due to the rapidly changing environment surrounding cardiovascular services. Literature supports the fact that managers of previous generations did not have to deal with the rapidity, complexity, and frequency of change that managers are faced with today (Ellis, 2005, p. 13). As new management roles are created, in response to change, the clinician, transitioning to management must give up their role as an individual contributor. As an individual contributor success is measured by the accomplishments of the individuals work. As a manager, you are no longer responsible for what you alone accomplish. You must now work with your direct reports to achieve the goals of the department and the organization. Specialized clinics should not have to reinvent the wheel, with the adoption of methods, tools and techniques the specialized clinic could evaluate current strategy and test future scenarios. There must be a perceived need for change with decision makers. During informal field discussions I discovered many instances that indicated a need for change as well as the need for inclusive ways of framing seemingly complex problems. This was verbalized through feelings of frustration and inadequacy; these situations could be categorized as general inadequate knowledge and preparation. Understanding the role of the manager, is important and in broad terms, I see this as achieving results through, and with others, to help their healthcare team be productive and effective in providing quality care. To do this, competencies such as guiding, supporting, and development of others to higher levels of performance are needed. Managers need to create an environment that encourages and motivates individuals to perform (Chief Nursing Officer) When you create the right environment, achieving results through others becomes much easier. (Boyette Conn, 1992) Data from the interviews indicated that clinical nurse managers appeared to feel clinically competent but generally experienced lack of concordance when dealing with a range of issues, in particular; human resources, managing budgets, communicating at a business level and using information technology in everyday practice. The most effective nurse managers are identified as those who accept full accountability for their own training and development within the clinic and for the outcomes that the clinic achieves. This paper has attempted to explore the issues affecting a nurse manager, specifically as it could relate to a specialized clinical area. I have found that the need for educational support is compounded by a business management deficit and high expectations (possibly unrealistic) that may be causing work overload among nurse managers. It can be stated that the nurse manager role encompasses both management and leadership, and that managers are appointed without the essential organizational management skills or support, making these managers vulnerable in their positions. Obtaining, training, and retaining nurse managers who have the skills and knowledge to manage specialized cardiac clinics is extremely important. Management development is a highly necessary pursuit (Tanner, 2002) (Srsic-Stoehr, Rogers, Wolgast, Chapman, 2004) for nurse managers to assist in addressing the challenges in their positions. Drucker 1967 on developing managers believes that development is not about identifying talent for todays requirements, but it should embrace developing managers to manage the future. It is important to ensure that a policy of developing the management and leadership potential in all and particularly of newly appointed managers. Individuals should also ensure that they focus on developing their own management skills through training, reading, analyzing, and following the example of good managers and by assessing, monitoring, and improving their own performance. The best managers increase the health of the workers whom they manage (Maslow, 1998, p. 94). There are a number of possibilities in up skilling nurse managers, self development or personal development, with the nurse manager taking primary responsibility for their own learning and for choosing the means to achieve this. Ultimately it is about increasing your capacity and willingness to take control over, and be responsible for, ones own development. Self development can mean many things, developing specific qualities and skills, improving performance in your job, advancing your career or, achieving your full potential as an individual. The question here is can an individual be willing and disciplined enough to identify and complete the ambitious goals that would be required here? There are many suggestions in the literature that guide and recommend models and methods to train and develop nurse managers; one suggestion is to develop in-house leadership through a Nurse Leadership Academy, as outlined in appendix II. Once a hospital initiates this kind of program, it can expand it to other leaders in the organization, and also begin developing an internal cadre of coaches and mentors. It has been suggested that one way to manage and assist the specialized cardiac clinic organizations improvement process is by implementing concepts such as Lean Six Sigma to improve performance, core process or quality service (Womack and Jones 1996, 2005). These programs assist in organizational development but not the individual. Six Sigma courses are designed to teach employees and management ways to eliminate wasteful processes, automate processes, minimize error and better utilize resources. Training of managers in Lean Six Sigma can facilitate positive change but the process has also been likened to trying to build a plane while trying to fly in it. There have been many suggestions on training needs for the nurse manager, from information gathering and design specific programs to meet areas of concern such as communication, finance, information technology, leadership and quality, to subsidizing formal academic education through higher education, but sometimes these pathways are over engineered and do not designed with a supportive structure that facilitates practice adoption. Higher education is essential for managers to further branch out and develop professionally, programs such as MBAs, Informatics, Masters programs in hospital administration offer much opportunity, but are also often not supported or backed up with mentoring programs and resources from within the managers clinical workplace. Passionate as I am about the potential contribution of specialized cardiac care programs and management education of the leaders for tomorrow, I remain convinced that a supportive approach is the foundation within this specialty area. In the foreseeable future specialized clinics are going to own the problem of training and developing managers, a component of this will involve support and encouragement of nurse manager personal development, with the nurse manager being encouraged to take primary responsibility for their own learning. Tertiary healthcare education programs, rightly or wrongly, are not about to relieve healthcare of this burden or, I should say opportunity, but has the potential to support an individuals quest for professional development as a manager. Much of this can be supported with the initiation of individual development plans IDPs (Appendix III). This is not what I had envisioned as I started this evaluation looking into new approaches to nurse manager development and education. I see that a personalized approach is needed for both my own development and the development of other managers; the approach would not necessarily incorporate a generic formalized education plan, but would encourage the goals, with the support of organizational resources, backed up by an E-learning capability and personal mentor. I see clinical management in specialist centers is not merely for the intellectually curious. Management should be for those who are not content to follow, for those who believe that the best way to win is to rewrite the rules, for those who are unafraid to challenge orthodoxy, for those who are more inclined to build than cut, for those more concerned with making a difference than making a career, and for those who are absolutely committed to staking out the future first. David Roffe the CIO of St Vincents Hospital group in Sydney identifies the goal for managers may be identified as enlarging their personal development to fully encompass the emerging healthcare reality. Appendix I In many instances a cyclic self evaluation has us going back to evaluate how to move forward. Boydell 2003 doing things well, doing things better, doing better things, Sheffield interlogics Appendix II Nurse Leadership Academy Outline The program could include but is not limited to the following elements: 1. Selection of high-potential candidates. Many hospitals start with the existing Nurse Managers to create a common language and way of thinking about leadership. Then they involve a second group of high-potential Assistant Nurse Managers and Staff Nurses. 2. Initial welcome, orientation, and content delivery. A two or three day retreat grounds participants in the key elements of being a successful leader in the hospital. At the same time, participants choose ambitious goals to improve quality, service, and cost at the organization. Note that time must be reserved to prepare for this retreat. For instance, we will assess an organization in order to tailor our existing Nurse Managers Performance Leadership Program to the specific needs of the organization. Also, we will work with leadership to determine key areas for improvement. 3. Monthly follow up meetings to discuss progress on goals, hear presentations from hospital leadership (e.g., a board member might discuss the role of the board), and learn additional content. 4. Ongoing one-on-one coaching as needed. 5. Some form of recognition after a year. Appendix III

Unjust War :: essays research papers

The Vietnam conflict began in the late nineteenth century. The French conquered Vietnam and made it a protectorate. For nearly forty years, Vietnam had not experienced settled peace. The League for the Independence of Vietnam (Viet Minh) was formed in 1941, seeking independence from the French. On September 2nd, 1945, Ho Chi Minh proclaimed it independent of France. The French opposed their independence from 1945 to 1954. The French wanted to reestablish their rule in Vietnam but were beaten at the battle of Dien Bien Phu on May 7th, 1954. Ho Chi Minh led the war against France and won (lawson 13-15). After the war there was a conference in Geneva where Vietnam was divided into two parts along the seventeenth parallel. North Vietnam was mainly Communist and supported Ho Chi Minh, while the south was supported by the United States and the French were based there (bender 55-59). There was still some Communist rebels within South Vietnam. These were the Viet Cong. The South Vietnam ruler was Ngo Dinh Diem who was anti-Communist. At the conference, Laos and Cambodia became independent states (johnson 34). North Vietnam wished to unify North and South Vietnam through military force. Since the United States feared the spread of communism in Asia, John F. Kennedy provided economic and military aid to South Vietnam to prevent the takeover by North Vietnam (bender 35). At this time, this was still a civil war and because this was a civil war the United States had no right to become officially involved, but at this point it did (mcleod 120-125). The North Vietnamese resented the little intervention by the United Sates and so, three Vietnamese torpedo boats fired on the U.S. destroyer, "Maddox" on August 2nd, 1964. The "Maddox" had been in the Gulf of Tonkin, (international waters), thirty miles off the coast of Vietnam. On August 3rd, 1964, President Johnson gave the right " to attack with the objective of destroying attacking forces.† Retaliation air attacks began on August 3rd. Their aim was to destroy North Vietnam's gunboat capability. As two more United States destroyers were supposedly sunk, more air and sea forces were sent. Up until now, the U.S. had refrained from direct combat. This is when the United States formally entered the Vietnam War. The U.S. did this for two reasons. We wished to maintain the independence of South Vietnam and we had to prove to allied nations that we would help them resist Communist overtaking.

Workplace Ethics Essay -- essays research papers

The judicial system in the United States is in desperate need of Christians with high ethic principles to take control of our courts. More Christian lawyers in our courts is one way of getting ethics into the judicial system. There are major controversial issues lawyers encounter when dealing with their clients and business in general. Firstly, many people question if an honest lawyer can defend a guilty client. â€Å"t is true that a lawyer is expected to represent a client zealously within the bounds of the law, but the question may fairly be asked whether this relieves the lawyer of any moral obligation other than compliance with the law. Put more broadly, when a person acts in a capacity of a lawyer, is he relieved of the personal or moral responsibility for the consequences of his action...

Challenges of Ecotourism in Antarctica Essay

Antarctica is one of the largest and most fragile environments on earth. It is rare and unique, and few people get the opportunity to visit such an extraordinary place. Antarctica’s unique environment and climate sets it apart from other tourist destinations. However, the hostile wilderness creates many challenges for ecotourism. There is a concern regarding the high concentration of tourists and their environmental impact at the few landing sites available. The real debate is whether tourism can benefit, or threaten the conservation of Antarctica. Ecotourism, in its early historical origins has been closely linked to nature – oriented tourism. For example, Laarman and Durst, in reference to ecotourism, defined it as a nature tourism where a traveler is interested and drawn to a destination because of its features and natural history. The visit combines education, recreation, and often adventure’ (Laarman and Durst 1987:5). Defining ecotourism is not easily done, difficulties defining it are mainly due to the multidimensional nature of the definitions, and the fact that each dimension involved represents a continuum of possibilities (Blamey 1997). The Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as ‘responsible travel to natural areas, which conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local people’ (Western 1993:8). Ceballos-Lascurain (1987: 14) defines ecotourism as ‘traveling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated natural areas with the specific objective of studying, admiring, and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural manifestations (both past and present) found in these areas’. The tourism industry of Antarctica is often overlooked as a factor of environmental degradation. It is important that more attention is drawn to assessing the current state of this large continent. Beck (1994) states that, tourists, scientists, and other visitors to Antarctica have tremendous environmental impacts. Tourist shipping can pose an environmental risk, and there is good reason for concern. There have been several marine accidents in recent years. There was the case of an Argentinean supply vessel Bahia Paraiso, which ran a ground on January 28, 1989, spilling 600 metric tones of fuel into Antarctica’s pristine waters (Culver 1991). Other environmental impacts include engine emissions that contribute to air pollution. The noise generated from outboard motors on inflatable zodiacs, turbulence created from tourist ships and the â€Å"grey water† sewage they emit also creates harmful effects. More responsibility is being demanded out of eco tourists visiting Antarctica. For example Salen Lindblad’s 164-passenger ship the Frontier Spirit has been reinforced, and also contains a sewage treatment plant, refrigerated waste storage area, and a special storage area for non-biodegradable waste (Cebellos-Lascurain 1996). Another main concern is in the peninsula region of Antarctica where there are several highly concentrated, high profile sites. The concentration of tourism activities leads to the potential for over visitation in these areas. A present study of Magellanic penguins demonstrates that human impact puts a great amount of stress on the species. Simple human presence can be physiologically stressful for breeding at nest sites (Fowler 1999). The Antarctic environment is very fragile and not used to human activities. However the study also found that birds exposed to high levels of tourists are not effected over time and concludes that as a result tourism should be concentrated to certain areas while others are kept off limits to human presence. People have been going to Antarctica for over 100 years. Prior to 1950, nearly all trips to Antarctica were either exploratory or scientific expeditions (Cessford 1997). As a result of human activity in the area there has been a connection with industrial, national and scientific programs. Human activity has also caused the development of alien microbes, fungi, plants, and animals. These â€Å"alien† species that are mostly European in origin exist on most of the sub – Antarctic islands and some even occur on the continent itself. These species in turn can have both a direct and indirect impact on the Antarctic ecosystem (Fenot 2004). It has only been recently that biologists have conducted any research into diseases of Antarctic wildlife to note the effects of human activity. These studies look at marine mammals and penguins for bacteria flora and pathogens (disease causing organisms). Blood tests for antibodies of a variety of species have also been taken to check for viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic disease. A study conducted in the summer season of 2000/2001, Dr. Todhunter and Dr. Terris took swab collections of specimens from passengers’ boots aboard the Kapitan Khlebnikov, which led to tentative findings of a wide range of potential pathogens. In another study 233 fecal samples from 8 bird species were taken from 6 different penguin colonies, which are regularly visited by tourists. The samples were investigated for pathogens of potential human origin. No human related bacteria were found, which suggests that the tourism industry in the Antarctic region has achieved its goal of not introducing any pathogens so far. While the tourist season only ranges from October to April, currently tourism in Antarctica involves over 30 agencies, and 40,000 tourists per annum (Lambert 2005). Antarctica is the ultimate destination for anyone interested in natural history, but it also challenges the same people that visit to think about our responsibilities to all life on earth† (Lambert 2005). Tourists to Antarctica are most likely to fall in to the category of eco tourist, as there are no restaurants, theaters or art galleries, and the experience is about learning about and viewing one of the earth’s last untouched continent s. Boo (1990) states that for conservation management to succeed, tourism must be a tool to educate thus creating real benefits for a geological location. Although tourism and human contact on Antarctica is showing some negative impacts, it has also encouraged conservation efforts in the region. Another step towards the recognition of potential environmental impact is the creation of the IATTO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators). In 1991 seven tour operators active in Antarctica formed IATTO. It was created to act as a single organization. The goal of IATTO is to promote and practice safe environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the Antarctic. Currently there are 80 member organizations representing 14 countries. IATTO 2008) This environmental protocol designates Antarctica as a natural reserve devoted to peace and science and seeks to ensure human activities, such as tourism, have no adverse effects on the Antarctic environment, or on its scientific and aesthetic values. With a recent increase in the number of members in the IAATO it shows that companies are becoming more aware of the environmentally se nsitive concerns related to Antarctica and the importance of such an organization. The increase in membership does not necessarily mean that there has been a drastic increase in the number of tourists visiting Antarctica. All current Antarctica tour operators file yearly environmental impact assessments to their national authorities. There are few places on earth that have never been to war, where the environment is fully protected and scientific research has priority over anything else. (IAATO 2008) The Antarctic treaty can be accredited with the successful protection of Antarctica. Formed on June 23, 1961 the treaty covers the area south of 60 degrees latitude and consists of 46 countries. Its objectives are simple and unique, demilitarize Antarctica and make it a zone free of nuclear tests, and disposal of radioactive waste. As well as be used for peaceful purposes only (IAATO 2008). To promote international cooperation in the Antarctic and set aside disputes over territorial sovereignty. The treaty parties meet each year and have adopted over 300 recommendations and negotiated separate international agreements, of which 3 are still in use. These include: 1. The convention for the conservation of Antarctic seals which was established in 1972. 2. The convention for conservation of Antarctica marine living resources established in 1980. 3. The protocol on Environmental protection to the Atlantic Treaty established in 1991. These agreements and the original treaty provide the rules to govern all activities in relation to Antarctica. Collectively known as the Antarctica Treaty System (ATS). In conclusion it is apparent that Antarctica is a very fragile environment, and any kind of human involvement can pose great risks if the correct precautions are not taken. It is clear to me that eco tourism can benefit the great continent of Antarctica, those visiting become ambassadors as they learn about the importance of preservation. Boo (1990) explains that tourists become emotionally attached to an area and will contribute funds to preserve it. It is important for organizations like the IAATO to continue their promotion of safe and environmentally responsible travel to the Antarctic. Continued research is necessary to make sure that tourists as well as scientists leave as little of a human footprint as possible. Antarctica is a beautiful place on earth, and I believe that when people are educated about their impact on such a vulnerable area and regulations are put in place to protect the area that everyone should be able to experience the Antarctic continent in all of its magnificence.

Kerala Essay

Kerala, the ‘God’s Own Country’, lies in the extreme Southern part of India. It has an area of 38863 sq. km and a population of 3. 18 crores. Kochi, or more familiarly, Cochin is a city of many parts. Around for a long, long time, Kochi played a pivotal role in the development of shipping and trade in the region. Kochi’s prime location on the west coast, its fine bay and protected harbor made it popular with seafarers and merchant ships who made frequent stops to stock up on spices, coffee and wood enroute to the rich markets of Europe and West Asia. And so down the ages, Kochi prospered as a busy port city and commercial centre. Its seafront is still extremely relevant to Cochin and to India: it houses a Naval Base and one of India’s busiest ports. It’s twin city, Ernakulam, is an important railhead and industrial centre. Kerala – God’s own Country tagline has been used because of its location, landscaping and its surroundings. It is the amalgamation of lush and tropical Malabar Coast on the west along with verdant backwaters in the centre ranging from Cochin to Kollam and Nilgiri mountain range covered with tea plantations in the east. Kerala†¦ The God’s own country Kerala, meaning â€Å"land of coconut trees†, is one of the relatively well kept secrets of all the exotic destinations in the world. However, Kerala’s popularity has increased over recent years. National Geographic† travel magazine lists Kerala among the fifty must see locations in the world. Not surpirisingly, the State Tourism Department promotes Kerala’s natural beauty, breathtaking lush landscape and tropical beaches as â€Å"God’s own country†. The result has been a signifiant influx of tourists and foreign visitors. The Sanskrit saying â€Å"athithi devo bhava†( treat your guest like God, with respect and honour) is ingrained in the collective ethos of the people of Kerala.

Advertisement Creates Artificial Needs

Advertising a product is the medium of introducing to customers, therby increasing the product sales. Some people say that advertising encourages us to buy that we really do not need. Others say that advertisements tell us about new products that may improve our lives. I agree with both statements that advertising of new products improves our lives to some extent and at the same time people are encouraged to buy things they really do not need.These days people are daily seeing advertisements of products in Televisions, Week-end magazines and even in some newspapers. These advertisements give us a rough idea about the new product, how it looks like, its new features and even prices also. Sometimes they prompt us to buy those products. Standards of people's life improves due to these advertisements. Say for example by seeing an advertisement of a new microwave or toaster oven, we are tempted to buy the product, which will be helpful to us.We will enjoy its usage. Many people are even b uying the products on the internet by seeing the advertisements. Also that if we want to know something about a product, we can't directly go to the shop and enquire about it. Advertisement provides means of dissemination of information for health and social issues as well as for products. Only producers gained through the process of advertising their products. Advertising manipulates us to buy things we don't need by playing on our emotions.It creates artificial needs. Sometimes they create confusion in the minds of people which brand of the product to buy. This is why The content of advertising has long been subjected to much criticism. With the advertisement of proucts on cigarettes, alcoholic products, poeple are tempted buy them, which will harm their health. So what I conclude is adverstisement of product is a good idea which encourages people to buy when in they are in actual need of the product.

Gillette – Product Innovation

Question 1 : Evaluate product innovation at Gillette throughout its history. Gillette has invented the first safety razor with disposable blades in year 1901 which is one of the new-to-the-world products. This safety razor serves as a basic product, for the market segment of men who shave regularly, providing them high quality shaving experience. The safety razor differentiates itself from the razor used at that period of time– the straight razor with an open blade, with its cover over the two edged blades, make it easier to handle and prevent cuts while shaving. This safety razor can be evaluated as a successful product, with its outstanding market performance of 50%-70% over the next 7 decades, and achieving $6. 80 profit per share. However, due to the lack of focus on product development, Gillette lost its market edge to Wilkinson Sword-Schick’s Stainless-steel blade, a new entry to the shaving market with a significant reduce in market share to 49% in 1962. However, Gillette didn’t realize the importance of product innovation and it took them 12 years to introduce the world with another product, the Trac II razor , a safety razor with two blades whereby the second blade cut the number of strokes required & reduced facial irritation. Trac II is an improvement and revision of Gillette’s disposable safety razor. However, although being capable to continue its dominance in the razor segment, Gillette is unable to regain its past glory of high profit per share performance, and remained at the range from $1. 3 to $2. 83 in 1974. Later in year 1976, Gillette continued to innovate and introduced other products with improved performance, such as the Atra razors with a pivoting head which enable men to shave their neck. Other new products which continue to lengthen Gillette’s product line are the Good News! disposable double-blade razor, which is more convenient for men to use and Daisy razor, which serves the segment of wome n who shave regularly. These new product lines strengthen Gillette’s position in the global market by gaining 75% of the global market share whereby Gillette achieves for the first time in the history—the $2 billion mark of sales volume by the end of 1980. In addition, the Good News! brand had been the best-selling disposable razor in the United States each year since 1976 and with its moderate increase in sales enabled it to maintain its position as the number-one seller in this product category worldwide. In the effort to further widen the product mix of Gillette to capture other segments of the market, Gillette continues to evelop new products. The Atra-Plus shaving system, which featured a refillable Atra cartridge with a lubricating strip, is an example of another incremental innovation. Along the same revolution is the Good News! line to include a disposable razor with a lubricating strip. Other new product-mixes which carries Gillette’s brand name are the Aapri facial care produ ct, Dry Idea deodorant, Bare Elegance body lotion, Mink Difference hair spray, White Rain hair care products, and Silkience shampoo and moisturizers. These products help Gillette to serve other segments other than men and women who shave regularly and also build Gillette’s brand awareness and brand equity in the long run. In 1990, Gillette continues to strive for the dominant sales position around the world with more incremental innovative products. Gillette launched the original Sensor razor, the first razor to have spring-loaded blades which claimed that the blades receded into the cartridge head, when they make contact with skin, helping to prevent cuts and allowing for a closer shave. In 1993, the Sensor Excel was introduced with the added feature of â€Å"Microfins,† a piece of rubber with slits at the bottom of the cartridge and Gillette claimed this helped to raise facial hairs, making for a closer shave. Along the same product category which serves the women segment is the Sensor for Women system, launched in 1992, which is the revision of the Sensor and Sensor Excel product line. This system established a major hold on the market for female razor products in the United States. With such effort, I think Gillette succeeded in increasing Gillette’s brand awareness thus increased its brand equity, although the continued success of the Sensor family of shaving systems led to the gradual decline of the Atra and Trac II twin-blade shaving systems. Six years after in year 1998, Gillette introduced the world with Mach 3, a razor with three thin blades designed to provide a closer shave in fewer strokes with less irritation. The Mach3 featured five improved microfins and spring blades, a pivoting head with greater flexibility and a blue lubrication strip that faded with usage to encourage users to change their blades more frequently. The feature of the fading lubrication strip served as a great influencer to impact the consumer to buy more of Gillette’s product—the cartridges. The Mach 3 became Gillette’s most successful new product ever as sales hit $ 1 billion in only 18 months. Besides, being the winner of the American Marketing Association’s Grand Edison Award as the est new product of 1998 also proofs the success of this innovative product. Further innovation efforts in this product line are the Mach3 Turbo and the Venus system for women. Besides, Gillette is able to widen its market share to teens who shaves with a line of Sensor razors in a variety of colours in an attempt to develop lifelong customers at a young age. Due to the high profit margin Mach3 created for the shaving market and the uncontested market space, Schick’s enter the market with Quattro—the world’s first foue-bladed razor. Besides, another product which carries Schick’s brand is the Intuition razor, also suite as the close substitutes to the Venus and Sensor shaving system. The occurrence of direct competitor, competing for the same market segment has affected Gillette’s market share to fall 4. 3 % from 67. 3% to about 63%. Therefore, Gillette started to react aggressively by continuing its progressive geometry technology innovation by introducing the Fusion razor in 2005. The Fusion uses a unique five-blade design with a single blade on the back of the cartridge for use in trimming moustaches and sideburns. Initial sales were very successful as over 4 billion razors were sold within the first two months, 20% more than when the Mach 3 was launched in 1998. Despite many sceptical issues were brought up involving the pricing strategy, product value and the frequency to have to replace the cartridges, Fusion still gain its success by approaching the $ 1 billion sales within 3 years. However, the consumers reflected in the Consumer Reports whereby Fusion was no better than other razors, particularly the Mach3. In the later stage, Gillette continued to innovate by offering power versions of its razors that contain tiny electronic motors in the handle. These motors create a vibration in the blades that cause hair to stand more erect, thus giving a closer and smoother shave. The powered razors also helped promote each company’s batteries. Other products which contribute towards Gillette’s sales are the supplementary products, for example the chemistry if shaving creams, gels, and aftershaves in order to compliment the shaving experiences.

Bond Markets and Hedge Funds

While watching the video, this video came in my mind again and again, and it would be most suitable to talk about this in this paper. After a thorough research, it could be found out that the debate regarding which market is bigger and better has been up for long but talking about my perception and as per the proofs with me, the bond market is undoubtedly greater than the stock exchange. There are some reasons for proving this assertion (Cheng, 2010). Firstly, let us talk about the size of each of these markets and after that, we can talk about other aspects of these two markets. As of today, the bond market is estimated to be more than mind blowing $82 trillion whereas on the other hand stock market is estimated to be around $40-$50 trillion. This estimated evaluation alone puts the bond market in the front seat as it is more than twice the size of the stock market which speaks volumes about the value of the bond market. Another important aspect is that bond market has a higher and larger number of issuers than the stock market. The different segments of issuers range from corporate, government, municipal, funding; mortgage supported, etc. Whereas the stock market has issuers from a particular set of corporate sector panies and for example, in the United States of America, there are around 17,000 enterprises of the public sector. One thing which cannot be neglected is that stock market is undoubtedly more influential on sentiments. Now for example, if someone asks what is the key indicator for the stock market? They will get an apt reply S&P 500 or Dow most probably but on asking the same question for a bond market most of the people would remain clueless (e.g.,. Indexes such as Merrill Lynch Domestic Master) this gives the stock market a wider and broader voice and reach. Now once that has been discussed, as per my assumption bond market remains more powerful and influential than the stock market. The reason for saying so is that bond markets have a stable and fixed return guaranteed and hence, they are more predictable. Now if the yields are naturally high, then their does not generate a need for investing time and one in stocks. There is no similar risk reward. But yes, definitely if the yields are quite low in bonds then it would be wiser to switch to stocks. This is what gives the bond market the advantage as they are predictable and the customers can switch as per their ease but this does not work so smoothly in stock markets, and one does not have the privilege to predict stocks, and they are much more volatile. Hence, it can be said that this analysis is not a clear or high-end research work but still practically it is quite apt, and if this question is asked personally then definitely the answer would be that bond markets are much stronger and influential than the stock markets (Staff, 1995). It is also imperative to understand that both bond and stock markets are closely webbed, and most of the major stakeholders have a good hold in both these markets and keep shifting their funds from one to another as per the requirements. The stock market will always remain tempting and glamorous amidst the general masses but yes no doubt bond market will have greater influence as it es with the benefit of stability and guaranteed returns and attracts more institutional cash. This question has been pondering for a longer period but after watching the video, it certainly incited me to write about this issue the very first time when this question came across was when the opposition of Labour party in the UK accused the governing party of the Conservative party of giving away favours to its hedge fund managers. By the year 2015 since 2010, more than fifty percent of the cream layer of these hedge funds had donated their money to the Conservative party which when totalled estimates around Euro ten million. Since then and in past also, these hedge fund managers have been recognized as experts in investment skills and also known for their wealth. But how do these experts of investment work? Let us see in the subsequent sections. Well, it is peculiar to understand that rather than being recognized as an asset class, they are more correctly defined by the structure possessed by them. Hedge funds have a long history, and it all started when in the 1940's a man named Alfred Winslow Jones had set up an investment structure which helped him to bet for the fall as well as the rise of the prices and charge a small fee as his performance fee. It again got a boost in the late 1990's especially when George Soros speculation forced sterling out of the mechanism of the exchange rate, and he was dubbed as the man who broke the England bank (Clarke, 2007). Now talking about hedge funds in detail, they can be called as the pots of money which are opened or revealed only to a specific set of investors who usually use a set of plex instruments and strategies. In the beginning, they were assigned the job to produce an absolute or positive return in the market, and this had to be done by betting on falling prices and also for long shots by relying on the market for rising prices. Now, for example, a hedge fund can bet on BP, which is a big giant pany in the sector of petroleum and oil by buying its shares and on the other hand shorting the market. This short allows the hedge fund to bet on an individual pany and at the same time insulating the fund from the bigger risk of taking a loss due to a big decline in the market. More often than not, hedge funds try to exploit the small mispricing of the market which can pay off in a handsome amount only and only if the best are all leveraged. Most of the fund try and magnify their resources by the help of borrowed money. It is peculiar to notice that this approached can be applied by the hedge fund owners for different types of markets ranging from shares, mergers, currencies and equity (Economist, 2015). To reflect the higher skill set, fund managers charge more than the mutual fund managers. Conventionally these hedge fund managers earn a â€Å"two and twenty" i.e. a 2% annual charge from the capital which is under management and a performance fee of twenty percent from the profits earned and this is the reason why so many hedge fund managers are rich as they get a handsome amount for the duties they impart (Gad, 2013). But now a lot of things have been changing as the regulators are keeping a closer eye on these managers and even the investors have started demanding for much lower fees especially due to recent performances with average results from these managers. Hence, in the end, it can be said that bond markets are more important than the stock market if not on scientific research methods then at least as per the practical and available arguments. Secondly, the hedge fund owners have been getting a lot of money because of the policy of two plus twenty which gives them handsome amount of payback Cheng, L. (2010, August 12).  Which is more important – the stock market or the bond market?  Retrieved July 3, 2016, from https://larrycheng /2010/08/11/which-is-more-important-the-stock-market-or-the-bond-market/ Clarke, M. (2007, March 27). How hedge funds work.  Investing. Retrieved from https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/investing/article-1600380/How-hedge-funds-work.html Economic Importance of the Corporate Bond Markets. (2014). Retrieved July 3, 2016, from file:///C:/Users/HP/Desktop/New%20folder/Corporate%20Bond%20Markets%20March%202013.pdf Economist, T. (2015, March 30).  How hedge funds work. Retrieved July 3, 2016, from https://www.economist /blogs/economist-explains/2015/03/economist-explains-16 Ferguson, N.  Ascent of Money  Retrieved from Furlong, M., & Co-founder. (2015, February 17).  Hedge fund investing overview: What you need to know. Retrieved July 3, 2016, from All Posts, https://www.slicedinvesting /learning/finance/hedge-fund-investing-overview-need-know Gad, S. (2013, October 22). What are hedge funds?  Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes /sites/investopedia/2013/10/22/what-are-hedge-funds/ Staff, M. F. (1995).  5 bond market facts you need to know -- the motley fool. Retrieved July 3, 2016, from https://www.fool /knowledge-center/5-bond-market-facts-you-need-to-know.aspx

History and Political Science Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words - 1

History and Political Science - Essay Example However, with independence and exacerbated peace missions across warring countries, this has changed over time. Many states around the world are independent and sovereign. China and Germany for example were ruined after the Second World War, but have emerged as leading world powers today, right from the post-war period. Security measures, trade and financial systems are essential factors that are promoting global relations today, enhancing the persistent globalization process. Modernization and contemporary trends in cultural, social, economic and political aspects define globalization today. Globalization is a process that has been going on for quite a long time now. It is this process that has resulted in global power shifts between states. The start of globalization is a historical phenomenon. It is dated decades of years ago, when states began to unite against others. Different states were objective about accumulating significant authority and power against others. The idea was t o dominate weaker states by strong states. In this regard, it was necessary that states unite to concentrate their powers and authority. On the same note, other objectives were realized in the process, characterized by global powers that keep shifting from time to time. Globalization is a diverse concept that is defined by numerous concepts, each of which is unique from one state to another. Converging cultural, social, economic and political practices are central to globalization in the modern times. It is highly characterized by interconnectedness of modes and means of communication that make it easy for the entire world to keep in touch. Populations in many states today have both locals and foreigners. The slave trade and migration of persons from one state to another marked the start of contemporary globalization. The moving out of business enterprises from their locales to international locations further exacerbated globalization and state relationships. The start of globalizat ion is basically seen from its definition. Globalization in the global power between states context is defined as an expanded economic integration, characterized by interdependence of states through international free trade, market economies, investments and capital flows (Raymond, Barbara and Bob, p.121-122). This process started as soon as world states began to realize their rights and freedoms at a time when weaker states were dominated by string states. The fading away of colonialism, slave trade and war between states marked the start of globalization. This was also the start of the realization of global power between states. Global politics have from then become diversely distributed, with globalization acting as the shaping power of the said distribution. The influence of global commerce has significantly led to the realized trends in global power between states. Multinational corporations and Bretton Woods institutions have further accelerated the influence of globalization on global powers and authorities. This has been aided by ease in international communication and transport, collaboration between states and technological advancements from time to time. (Raymond, Barbara and Bob, p.122) says, â€Å"global commerce linked with the spread of global fibre-optic networks, digitization, satellite communications, the world wide web and computer technology have impacted state-to-state power relations dramatically.† The effects of globalization

The Role of Oxidative Stress in Diabetic Retinopath Dissertation

The Role of Oxidative Stress in Diabetic Retinopath - Dissertation Example Insulin is an important component in the regulation of the glucose pathway in humans as well as some other animals. Because of this, the inability to effectively create or use insulin results in significant health problems, and also has the potential to create diabetic complications as the disease progresses (Hartnett et al. 2000). Diabetes dramatically increases the chance of obtaining either a vascular or a microvascular condition (Pennathur and Heinecke 2004). The first form of diabetes is type I, where individuals are unable to produce insulin. People with this form of diabetes make up approximately five to ten percent of the diabetic population. They are also known as insulin-dependent (IDDM), and the two terms can be used interchangeably. In contrast, the remainder of diabetes patients are able to produce insulin but do not have the correct cellular response to the hormone. This is known as type II diabetes. Individuals with this form of the disease are non-insulin-dependent (N IDDM). As diabetes progresses, a number of different complications can develop, including diabetic retinopathy, which results in permanent loss of vision due to tissue damage (Hartnett et al. 2000). ... Because this occurs, the oxidative species are able to significantly damage the tissues of the body (Evans et al. 2003). It is argued that this is strongly related to the development of hyperglycemia (Cvetkovic et al. 2009). The development of complications has significant impact for people suffering from diabetes, resulting in significant decreases in quality of life, among other effects. One particularly strong effect of diabetic retinopathy is that at the current time it is incurable, meaning that people with this complication must life with its effects for the rest of their lives. Currently, diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common complications that occurs as the result of diabetes, and the majority or all suffers will end up with the complication after having diabetes for between 15 and 20 years (Bucolo et al. 2012). Because of the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and its significant effects, it is crucial to understand the way that this complication develops, and wheth er these mechanisms are able to be used in the development of preventative or curative treatments for the disorder. As with other diabetic complications, oxidative stress is believed to play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of diabetic retinopathy. The aim of this paper is to examine recent research in the field of oxidative stress in diabetic retinopathy, and consider the strengths and weaknesses of current knowledge. It is hoped that the conclusions of this paper will help to inform future research and determine the gaps present in the research on this area. 2. Oxidative Stress in Diabetes Oxidative stress is the underlying factor in most mechanisms of diabetes (Neri

Visual Pleasure and Narrative Cinema - Laura Mulvey Essay

Visual Pleasure and Narrative Cinema - Laura Mulvey - Essay Example These are the issues that Muvley is attempting to address using psychoanalysis. In essence, Muvley outlines that the female can only fit within the male dominated society by considering herself as castrated due to her lack of a male sexual organ. In addition, the female also has the alternative of constructing meaning through her child. Muvley continues to outline that the film industry especially Hollywood has not been able to give meaning to the role played by the woman in a perspective that it free of the male perception. According to Muvley, the source of female persecution is the society’s poor understanding of the role of the female and the same aspect is reflected in the film industry. Reading the article has significantly changed my perception of movies especially in the contemporary world where some movies claim that they support feminism. In other words, most movies claim to be supporting the role and position of the woman in the society while in actual sense they are just displaying the woman as a shadow of her male counterpart. The observation also brings into question the strategies that can be employed by the society to ensure that the female is adequately represented and that she can be able to identify with female protagonists in films. An example of such a film is the movie A League of their Own. The film recounts the story of women who engage in professional baseball after most of the men are sent to war during the 2nd World War. Although the film might be taken as a film emphasizing on gender equity because the female has been given the chance to demonstrate her skills in a male sport, there are aspects in this photo that indicate that the female is still a shadown of the male. The photo displays the female as being strong and bold and even managing to take a role in a sport that was previously known to be

Find everything related to food Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

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