Global Context of Modern Business Essay

China is believed to have the oldest continuous civilisation. China has over 4,000 years of provable history. Beijing is the capital of China and is the most important point for the country. The official language is standard Chinese, which is derived from the Mandarin language however most business people speak English. There are many dialects in China however there is only one written language. A communist form of government rules China. The Chinese government promotes atheism although the constitution guarantees freedom of religion. The Chinese practice a variety of religions however Confucianism; despite not being a formal religion is practiced widely throughout the country. China is the most densely populated county in the world with approximately 1. 3 billion people as of mid- 2008. Almost 100 percent of the population are ethnic or Han Chinese. There are strict rules regarding childbirth and each couple is limited to only one child. Opportunities There are lot of trade and investment opportunities for exporters in the China market. Some of the major sectors currently experiencing rapid growth are: processed food and beverages, gambling, transport, IT and telecommunications, minerals and energy, environment protection, building construction products and services. Three of the major growth industries though are the exporting of education, processed food and wine products. Education The foreign education sector in China is split in two – students studying abroad and foreign education service providers establishing a presence in Shanghai. The type of students interested in Australia includes those who desire pure language study and those who wish to study university degrees right through to post-graduate/MBA studies etc. As the cost of overseas study remains high, pursuing qualifications through foreign accredited institutions in China has become more practical and more popular. Course delivery can take two forms. One is the foreign school catering exclusively to expatriates, which can be wholly foreign owned and the investor need not be an education entity. The other is a co-operative arrangement or twinning with a Chinese institution where local students are the target markets. These schools are encouraged to provide vocational education. Foreign investors must have a Chinese partner who can lodge an application with the local education authorities for approval. Processed Food As Chinese become more prosperous, demand for more sophisticated products, with a greater emphasis on quality, convenience and freshness continues to grow. This means that significant unsatisfied demand for richly processed foods exists. There has always been a stable market for imported foods in China, especially in respect to hotels, bars and western style restaurants. Increasingly, Chinese consumers themselves are becoming to lay great stress on brand and brand loyalty than before. This means that companies with a strong international brand and aggressive marketing strategies continue to hold large market shares. Foreign companies that have been given permission by the Chinese government to set up supermarket chains include Yaohan, Wellcome, Parkson, Park ‘N Shop, Careful, Pricemart and CHC. These companies are setting up supermarkets in a limited number of locations. Wine Wine is especially popular in the large cities of China (Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou) and has great potential given the increasing disposable income of local people, the health benefits of drinking wine and the government campaign against grain-based alcoholic drinks. However, many Chinese have little knowledge of table wine, and few people can differentiate quality and appreciate the taste. With this in mind, and excellent promotional tool could be wine appreciation and information courses to educate food and beverage managers, restaurant owners and waiters. This would also attract high-income earners and may ultimately stimulate the consumption of quality wine. The Chinese wine market is price sensitive and consequently locally manufactured wine holds the largest market share. French companies are active in setting up joint venture either growing grapes and manufacturing wine or bottling bulk-imported wine. Better quality wine is limited to hotels and restaurants and consumed mostly by Western diners. To successfully sell wine in China, local bottling of bulk-imported wine is considered the most economical and practical way to supply the local market with a competitively priced product. The opportunities arise from rapid economic growth in the world’s largest market and the availability of a cheap manufacturing base from which to sell to China and the world. From a manufacturing perspective, China in the long run will be distinguished by its overall business strength and structure, including the huge investments made to ensure China has a modern competitive manufacturing sector. All businesses need to be clear about whether they want to sell or manufacture in China. Long-term, China business strategies should not be based on the availability of cheap labour – this is disappearing as China becomes wealthier. The number of high net-worth individuals on the Chinese mainland has hit a record high and they are continuing to spend, according to the Hurun 2009 Wealth Report. The study found 825,000 mainland Chinese – or one in 1,700 – with a personal wealth of at least US$1 million. And now the rich are more likely to be found in second- and third-tier mainland cities. A new generation of consumers is emerging in China – they are young, well educated and familiar with non-Chinese cultures. This ‘Y generation’ of 240 million, born between 1980 and 1990, is now the highest earning age group in the country and is looking for a new way of life. They typically live in the major cities on the Eastern seaboard of China and in particular in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Guangzhou where GDP per person is now over US$5,000 but corresponds in Purchasing Power Parity terms to four times that amount. Challenges Starting to do business in China is likely to be more costly and time consuming than in other markets. Challenges arise because of China’s size, its gold rush style growth and the fact China has a very different business culture and environment from what businesses in other countries are used to. China is different in size, culture, politics, geography, history and economic structure. These issues can present challenges for companies looking to sell or invest in China which can only be overcome by thorough research, spending a lot of time in-market and following a focused business plan. Language and culture barriers The main challenges of doing business in China would be language and culture barriers. Before you visit China, it will be a definitely good idea to prepare yourself by studying aspects of Chinese language, culture, history, and geography. Your hosts will appreciate your initiative. If you speak Chinese, they will really appreciate your efforts and take your initiative of doing business in China more seriously than if you do not speak any of their language. Moreover, your ability of being able to understand Chinese language will help you to establish a successful business. It is essential for the foreign-funded enterprises to understand the China’s culture, especially regarding the culture of Guangxi (relationship), so as to be able to gain the popularity and trust of China population. With a good relationship, business can become smoother and probability of failure will be greatly reduced. Stronger bonds can also be built with the customers, suppliers and partners. In China, Guangxi is a complicated field. A special feature of doing business in China will be that Guangxi will have to include relationship with the government body, investors, partners and even relationship with your own staff, so when doing business in China, it is important for foreign investors to learn to coordinate with the China government, especially establishing good relationship with government bodies dealing with foreign trade and economic cooperation. Government procedures Governmental procedures for foreign investors in establishing investments in China is extremely complicated, thus if one is unfamiliar of the procedures, one will delay his business opportunities. Therefore it is important for one to be familiar with the investment procedures before carrying out his investment in China. A safer and more appropriate way will be to seek help from local organisations familiar in the same field of business or consultant firms who are able to provide professional advice and assistance. Determination and patience may be essential for an investor to be successful, however it is necessary for one to require help from professional bodies to ensure that success will be achieved. Conclusion China’s labour market very much appeals to many foreign investors. This is because on one hand, labour cost is low, and on the other hand China’s workforce has become matured and their skills have been constantly upgraded, especially in the coastal cities. Educational development is undergoing at a wonderful pace in China, thus it is no longer difficult to hire high quality labour force in China today. Many successful foreign investors have even credited their success in China to their China’s local staff. One big problem that is causing headache to foreign investors is how to maintain good relationship (Guangxi) with the local staff. First of all, top management should cultivate the company’s vision and values into the employees because what the local people are taught under China’s educational system may crash with the foreign management system. Thus only by letting the employees understand the company better can allow the company to function better.

Cultural Universals Between United States and China

According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, the definition of culture is â€Å"the customary beliefs, social forms, and material traits of a racial, religious, or social group†. Every country has its specific culture and there are some obvious cultural universals between China and America. One example of such cultural universal is the directness of American versus the humbleness of the Chinese people. Another example would be the self independence of the young Americans versus the young Chinese who tend to depend on their parents.What I would like to cover are the holidays observed by United States and China, roles played in the family by husband and wife, parenting styles and conflict management. Holidays observed There are two similar holidays that are celebrated in both United States and China, New Year’s Day and Chinese New Year’s Day. In both countries, New Year’s Day is celebrated for the passing of the old year and the start of the New Year. Chines e New Year which is also called Spring Festival starts with the New Moon on the first day of the New Year and ends on the Full Moon 15 days later.It is celebrated in honor of Heaven and Earth, the gods of the household, and the family ancestors as a family affair, a time of reunion and thanksgiving. During the Chinese New Year, Chinese people decorate the house with red couplets on the doors and they visit each other during this holiday. They will feast on traditional foods like New Year cake and dumplings. New Year’s Day in United States is celebrated on January 1st. It is celebrated with a resolution to get rid of bad habits and start a new one when the clock strikes 12am. Roles between husband and wifeIn United States, family is in a more nuclear and immediate interaction while family in China is larger due to its culture. The Chinese family involves uncles, aunts and other relatives. Most of the American household consist of the father, mother and the children in the sing le household, while the Chinese household is usually bigger and would consist of multiple generations under one roof. In the Chinese family, the roles of men and women are usually pretty much defined by the husband generating income for the family while the wife is responsible for running the household and taking care of the children.The father usually holds the dominant role and decision maker. According to quintessential website, it mentioned that the institution of family is the pinnacle of society. It also mentioned that the traditional Chinese family has a hierarchical order with the man as the head of the family. The father of the house is also responsible for housing and educating his children up until the time of their marriage. The American families advocate equality. The husband and the wife usually have an equality voice in decision-making, and on certain matters, family members are regarded as friend and they should treated equality in daily life.Parenting Style Yale law professor Amy Chua wrote a book named â€Å"Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother† and it talks about parenting styles between the Chinese verses the Western styles. She said that parents who set high standards tend to have kids who are more successful at school. It’s also clear that Chinese parents tend to spend more time pushing their kids to study, practice, and achieve. Her book created a huge controversial piece for the Wall Street Journal on â€Å"Why Chinese mothers are Superior â€Å". This article is about the response of Amy Chua to all the book readers that she believed took her parenting methods too serious.It explains how many Americans were shocked when they found out what she had done to her youngest daughter when it came to reciting her piano piece. It also touched on how Chua called her eldest daughter â€Å"garbage† at the dinner party they attended. She is explaining that she was just raising her children the same way her and her siblings were ra ised by her parents. She tells that her and her husband had many arguments and discussions on how to raise their children, and that he was not always against her.The Wall Street Journal article later conclude that Western parents try to respect their children's individuality, encouraging them to pursue their true passions, supporting their choices, and providing positive reinforcement and a nurturing environment. By contrast, the Chinese believe that the best way to protect their children is by preparing them for the future, letting them see what they're capable of, and arming them with skills, work habits and inner confidence that no one can ever take away. Conflict Management Chinese are more obliging and avoiding than Americans in managing conflicts.In managing conflict the Chinese are more concerned with maintaining interpersonal relationships. Just like any other situation, the rules for the polite way to handle problems are specific to a particular culture. An old Chinese sayi ng goes that â€Å"Do not talk too deep when you are not close enough with the other†, when one feels that their relationship with the other is not strong enough for conflict, he or she has should better express an opinion through someone else. If they disagree about something, they may have a direct communication for the sake of seeking a solution which is acceptable to both parties.In such a situation, Chinese always say that â€Å"we are all brothers, it is needless to argue†. In the process of negotiation, they may take various ways and ask others to â€Å"give me a face†. Quarrel makes both sides ugly; while agreements enable both to have their own shares. † In order to keep their harmonious relationship, they tend to concede and â€Å"give face† to each other. Therefore, both of them are able to walk away and compromise with other party. References * Chinese Culture Family Life. Country facts. Kwintessential. co. uk. Retrieved January 30th, 20 13. ttp://www. kwintessential. co. uk/articles/china/chinese-culture-family-life/article/China/Chinese-Culture-Family-Life/1781 * Why Chinese Mothers are Superior† The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved February 20 2013. http://online. wsj. com/article/SB10001424052748704111504576059713528698754. html â€Å"Tiger Mom: Amy Chua Parenting Memoir Raises American Fears – TIME. † Breaking News, Analysis, Politics, Blogs, News Photos, Video, Tech Reviews – TIME. com. Web. February 10 2013. http://www. time. com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2043477,00. html

UAE Shoe online Business Plan Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

UAE Shoe online Business Plan - Assignment Example Nevertheless, the supplemental funding is needed to start work on web design, purchase of server, computers and software, brand marketing and modifications, and to clear expenses incurred during the initial year of management. Additional funding has already been obtained from; firstly $50,000 from the Local Entrepreneurs Funds; Secondly $700,000 are personal savings, thirdly; $1,200,000 from two investors, and lastly $10,500 as a short-term loan. UAE shoe online will be included as a Limited Liability Company category. This will cushion the proprietor and the two outside investors from matters of personal liability as well as double taxation. Nonetheless, the investors will get the treatment accorded to shareholders and hence will not be given anything more than their personal investment worth $600,000 each. The funding, an extra amount of the capital contributions invested by the proprietor, shareholders as well as the LEF, will enable UAE shoe online to successfully start and susta in operations throughout the first year. Nevertheless, the large initial capital investment will enable UAE shoe online to avail to its customer’s absolute an online shop for shoes of its kind in UAE. A unique, fashionable, and innovative atmosphere is needed to present the customers with a setting that will enhance easy shoe buying. Successful business at the end of the first year will provide UAE shoe online Company with a consumer base that will enable it to be self-reliant in the following year (Evans & Brown, 2009). Objectives- UAE shoe online company’s objectives for the initial three years of business encompass the establishment of an upscale, unique, innovative setting that will distinguish the company from local shoe sellers. Keys to Success- The setting up of a matchless, innovative, fashionable atmosphere that will separate the firm from other domestic establishments and future shoe sellers; the creation of UAE shoe online Company as a fashionable shoe compa ny; and the establishment of an opportunity that is user-friendly in the execution of duties. Mission- As the fame of the Internet grows exponentially, affordability and proximity of resources of the online medium are significant. UAE shoe online company provides individuals, first online shop for shoes, regardless of where they are, purposely to advertise and ensure the continuation of education. Introduction We are now looking to provide our services online. UAE shoe online will provide shoe products and supplies to be consumed by the general population. UAE shoe online also promises to provide quality products at affordable prices with efficient processes. Our mission is to exceed customer expectations with the vision of being the best online shoe supply company. UAE online shoe’s operations are to include online services and marketing will allow the company to keep pace and exceed the performance of its competition. UAE shoe online will provide a wide variety of shoe prod ucts with our focus being on the general population. We offer everything one may need for a shoe in the home from incontinence men, women to children. In today’s society with many people choosing to make their purchases online we are also going to market ourselves to the online world.

Decision Support System (DSS) Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Decision Support System (DSS) - Research Paper Example Data on an organization's external operating environment, as well as internal operational information, is included and an interactive interface allows managers to retrieve and manipulate data. Modeling techniques are used to examine the results of alternative courses of action† (Decision support system.2007). Later on, DSS contributed to several domains, one of them is the healthcare sector. The Armed Forces Longitudinal Technology Application (AHLTA) is an internationally recognized medical and dental information management system that provides a safe and secure online accessibility to the military health systems (MHS) reports of beneficiary. Medical clinicians, who are deployed in various medical treatment facilities worldwide, access the system (DHIMS, 2011). They are provisioned with complete and appropriate health data in order to take informed decisions regardless of location and time. Moreover, AHLTA also facilitates central storage of electronic health records (EHR) dat a used to retrieve patients overall history of injuries and diseases (DHIMS, 2011). AHLTA Functionality The information flow and sharing of information on various levels of the AHLTA system are illustrated below (How data travels through AHLTA, n.d): The flow of information does not cover all aspects of the system and only prioritize on nontechnical aspects. As there are four primary components of the system including: Client Workstations: The workstations that will be used by the clinical staff Local Cache Database: The local cache database stores all the retrieved information, in order to provide information much faster as compared to a normal request of patient information from the system. Clinical Data Repository: The clinical data repository hosts the primary database and includes all the patient and clinical data connected to all the military treatment facilities worldwide. CHCS: Composite Health Care System is a legacy system that is performing the task of maintaining informa tion and information retrieval related to results, appointments and vice versa. Moreover, the AHLTA system operates on two modes i.e. the normal mode and the Failover mode. The normal mode provides provision of all the available information related to patient’s history. The CHCS retrieves and demonstrates demographics, appointment information and results from the clinical data repository that displays all the information to the computer of the client (How data travels through AHLTA, n.d). The fail over mode also operates on the same four components excluding the clinical database repository. In this scenario, the clinical team can have access to document encounters related to patients. Nevertheless, they cannot access the complete record of the patients and historical records i.e. they cannot access CDR. If CDR is not accessible, CHCS sends all the information related to patient appointments, demographics along with all the relevant information to local database cache (LDC) ( How data travels through AHLTA, n.d). Furthermore, the fail over mode supports: Scheduling of appointment information Last four encounters of scheduling patients Information related to patient and family history for patients that are scheduled Inventory information related to stores User Configuration The client server architecture of an AHLTA system were illustrated by â€Å"

Sports nutrition for Adolescence Research Paper

Sports nutrition for Adolescence - Research Paper Example The journal article focuses on determining the hydration enhancement levels of both the coconut water and sports drinks (Feldman, 2012). The study focuses on the artificially colored carbohydrate sports drinks. The drinks contain carbohydrate elements. The study focuses on the use of coconut water to increase the athletes’ hydration levels..The athletes were either drinking coconut water or carbohydrate sports drinks. The athletes’ exercise performances were then measured. The researchers gathered data on the respondents’ regular exercise routines. The treadmill test was used in the experiment s (Feldman, 2012). Rehydration fills the sports person’s need for water. Another research indicated energy drinks supply energy-boosting nutrients to the sports person (Wilborn, 2012). By consuming lesser nutrition amounts, the athletes get easily tired, reducing their racing speed (Seco et al., 2013). The findings show that there is no significant difference between coconut water and the carbohydrate sports drinks. Both methods were able to hydrate the sports athletes. Similarly, the athletes drinking either coconut water and carbohydrate sports drink suffered from stomach upsets. ConclusionThe results of the research show that both drinks are able to hydrate the sports athletes. There is no significant difference between the carbohydrate sports drinks and coconut water, in terms of hydration of the athletes. Both the sports drinks and coconut water enhanced the athletes’ exercises.

Training Public Servants in the Public Sector Research Paper

Training Public Servants in the Public Sector - Research Paper Example Training and development can also be used to provide the workers with new knowledge that they can apply in the workplace. A good training and development program has both mandatory and voluntary trainings (Ncsu). Mandatory trainings are given to the entire staff. Offering other training opportunities is important so that employees that are motivated to become better workers can move up the corporate ladder. Employees that voluntarily take advantage of training opportunities have a better chance to be given a promotion by a firm. Providing training and development can help reduce the stress of the workers by adequately preparing them to perform their job tasks. Training and development initiatives are typically given by the managers, human resource department, or by an outside consultant. Preparing training and development programs in-house can help companies save money. Training and development can help motivate the staff (Bodimer, 2013). To determine whether training adds value to the firm the organization must perform a cost-value analysis. New employees are often given on-the-job training. On-the-jo b training is the most widely method used for training. On-the-job training involves placing the employee into the real work situation and shown the job and the tricks of the trade by an experienced employee or the supervisor (Ivancevich, 2001). A training method that can be used to develop managerial decision making is the in-basket technique. Managerial games emphasize development of problem solving skills. A few years ago I worked at a company that was suffering from productivity issues. The managers of the company were not able to identify the source of the problem. The general manager of the company hired a consulting firm to assess the situation. After one week of observation and analysis the consultant determined that the productivity of

Cost Estimate and the State Of Work Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Cost Estimate and the State Of Work - Assignment Example The IGCE statement is also very important in government reference and file keeping. It is a document when well kept can give the future generation the way the projects were carried and the amount of cash that they utilized for project completion (Federal government, 2009). It is also very important in countrymen taxation and government budget making for the year of the project. It also helps the government in the revenue allocation and in implementation of the governments’ strategic plans (Kinzie, 2010). This will lead to job creation, growth and expansion of the countries industrialization. Therefore a well documented IGCE statement safeguards the government’s properties through internal controls and audit trials for the government’s final project price. Reasons for Confidentiality The reasons why the IGCE should be kept a major secret is because the countries ethics and integrity must be retained and should be above reproach in business dealings with the government (Schwalbe, 2011). This will build the people’s confidentiality in the government hence creating harmony in the country (Federal government, 2009). The contracting officers must go to an agreement with the contracting officer representatives on the confidential financial disclosure report. This report is very crucial in avoiding conflicts between the official duties and the private affiliations. This report is also very vital in curbing away bribery from the public sector.

International Portfolio Diversification Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

International Portfolio Diversification - Essay Example Investing on the stock market can be a very risky venture. According to Yavas (2007), both the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) and the Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT) indicates that investors should hold a well diversified portfolio in order to reduce risk. Beta is used to measure risk. A stocks beta indicates the sensitivity of the stock’s returns to the market returns (Madura 2006, p. 304). Madura (2006, p. 304) states that investors who have a diversified portfolio use beta to determine how well their portfolio reflects movements in the market. Investors believe that favourable characteristics that are related specifically to a particular firm will offset unfavourable characteristics of other firms. This is also true for industries and so it implies that a wide range of stocks spanning various industries should be held. It is expected that certain factors affecting securities on the stock market are either firm or industry specific and so in order to reduce unsystematic ri sk holding securities from a wide range of industries is recommended. This is also true in relation to national securities. Certain risks are country specific and so in order to reduce risk international portfolio diversification is recommended. This paper examines how International portfolio diversification can result in a reduction in portfolio risk. It looks at various elements of risk that are associated with portfolio. It looks at market returns in five countries and shows how correlation between these markets can impact negatively on portfolio risk reduction. An analysis is also carried out to determine whether of the returns on stock markets in Japan and Canada are integrated based on their trade relationships over the years. The findings from other studies are also explored to determine how they concur with the results from this research. How can international diversification reduce risk? There are differences in the level of economic growth among countries. Some are develop ed while others are developing. Yavak (2007) states that these differences can lead to portfolio risk reduction as the timing of business cycles are usually different. According to Eiteman et al (2007) the case for international portfolio diversification can be broken down into two components. They are the potential risk reduction benefits of holding international securities and the potential foreign exchange risks that comes with it. Portfolio risk reduction The risk associated with a portfolio of securities is measured by the ratio of the variance of the return on the portfolio in relation to the variance of the market return (Eiteman et al 2007). As noted earlier, this is represented by beta. As the number of securities in the portfolio increases the portfolios beta approaches the market beta. A portfolio that is fully diversified would have a beta that is equal to 1. Therefore the risk that is associated with holding a particular stock can be reduced through diversification. How ever, risk cannot be eliminated totally (Eiteman et al 2007). This can be explained by the fact that the total risk of a portfolio comprises a systematic and a non-systematic element. The systematic element is associated with the market and unsystematic element is related to the individual elements in the portfolio. Increasing the number of securities in the portfolio reduces the unsystematic element (Eiteman et al 2007). This same approach can be taken in the form of investing in various stock markets across the globe. When investors hold securities in several countries they are able to cushion their portfolio from shocks in any one market. Therefore, if economic conditions in one country are affected by unfavorable factors, any resultant reduction in stock market returns may be offset somewhat by gains in other stock markets or at least be cushioned by the relative weight of other securities held in other parts of the world. This is however, assuming that the markets are not highl y

Militia in the War of 1812 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Militia in the War of 1812 - Essay Example In addition, many on the western front believed that Britain was involved with Native Americans in the attacks upon settlers Confrontation seemed inevitable, and coincident with a declaration of war was the fact that most of the political power resided in the South and the West; The same people who were anxious to go to war with Britain were also the ones whom the president needed to support him in what was, after all, the year of the presidential election. War was almost certain under these conditions. That does not mean, however, that the American states were prepared for war. Many authors agree that the constitution was fearful of creating a large standing army, and for this reason relied upon the citizens to form militias in times of crisis: " The actual standing army was tiny, with the Office of the Chief of Military History calculating that army at about 11,744 men. As a consequence of this small number, the defense of the united States was very dependant upon militia armies raised by the states. As many of the militias held by individual states were disorganized and chaotic, "Many states had to recreate their militia from scratch once war was declared in June 1812". Therefore, one of the reasons why different states had different militia was partly dependant upon the state of this army before 1812: where the militia was in good repair, the state could mobilize these units effectively; where they had fallen into disrepair, the 1812 militia was usually ill-trained and ill-equipped. How these militia were created and maintained was very much dependant upon the individual states. Many of them were opposed to these raised armies being taken away from their state of origin, as a proclamation by the Governor of Vermont in 1813 demonstrates: It appears, that the third brigadeof militia of this state, has Been ordered from our frontiers to the defence of a neighbouring Statewhereby an extensive section of our own frontier is left, In a measure, unprotected, and thegood citizens thereof are put In great jeopardy (Chittenden, 1813) The federal governments were unwilling to put large numbers of their men at the disposal of the National government, and especially, they did not want to see their troops moved out of their province in order to defend another state. There were other reasons why federal states might be unwilling to put up large militias. While many of the Western states wanted the war, states such as New England actually sided with England, and "Massachusetts Governor Caleb Strong even attempted secret negotiations with England with a planfor New England to secede from the Union" (Lutins, 2007). So the second reason for differences in the militia is the differences in support (or lack thereof) for the war. Both of these reasons were also interacting with the great problem which the United States had with federal governments, which is the reluctance of the States to grant power

Mental impairment Essay Example for Free

Mental impairment Essay The law of not guilty due to mental impairment in Victoria, Australia was started as a simple experiment in the mid nineteen nineties as a result of the a case that involved victims that were released from prison on the account of not being guilty on the ground of mental impairment which was initially known as insanity (Patelis, 1996). Such a decision was always made by the Governor after consulting with the cabinet on the way forward. Afterwards, it was shifted to the courts that were concerned with sentencing. The victims who had initially been the favorites of the politicians and the Governors for that matter ended up waiting for long periods of time for their cases to be determined by the courts immediately after this change was effected (Patelis, 1996). This change in the legislation was to mean that the people who were to be released on the grounds of not guilty by reason of mental impairment had to be detained in the precincts of the court for at least a period of time for the purpose of their own security and the security of the community at large. This was part of implementing the obligations that were recognized internationally on the principles of protecting the insane people and also those who had mental problems. The law had been interpreted by the seventy supreme courts in Victoria by the year two thousand and four. To date, this body of law constitutes one of the very vital organs in the mental health section. Factors that cause differences in opinion toward Mental impairment defense. In Victoria and other parts of the world, there are factors that cause people to react negatively towards defenses based on the ground of insanity or mental impairment (Feusch, 1980). This is an issue that is one of the mostly contested about and has ended up generating a lot of debates among many people including those who support the ideas and those who are against the ideas. Many view it with very strong opposition and cannot see the reason why someone should be released or acquitted by the courts on grounds of mental disorders. Such releases have really led to a lot of heat and therefore mistrust towards the said defense and resulted to general bias of the defense (Feusch, 1980). Some states have been forced to go ahead and abolish this kind of defense by the increasing number of outcries from the public. An example is the release of a victim in the United states of America after he attempted to assassinate the then president in the year nineteen eighty one. The president was Reagan Ronald. A lot of changes and shifts in the law about insanity defense came soon after this attempted assassination with many of them concentrating on the not positive public outcry. These negative views and opinions are not only found in the U. S but cut across many mixed cultures (Menzy, 2002, pp. 379). Many of the attitudes facing the defense on insanity can be termed as genuine but one wonders, for how long? The media has also played a role that is looked at as being negative and has led to negative opinions and stigmatization among people on the misuse and abuse of the defense on insanity. Jurors have also been affected by these allegations. Most of them would go to court with minds that are already influenced by the media or by the mare perception of insanity thus ending up passing verdicts that are uninformed and misplaced. There are two main concerns that show case as to why the public has different views on the insanity defense cases (Menzy, 2002, pp. 82). Albeit the misperceptions exist, one would argue that they are uninformed. The first highlight is that, the people look at the defense on insanity grounds as a mare scape goat by which victims of crime can avoid court prosecution and hence punishment. Such beliefs oftenly make the public feel that the criminals evade their rightful justice and yet they have committed crimes. The other reason is that, lack of accurate and correct information about such cases of insanity lead to criticism and negative reaction by the public. The truth is that even if the jurors and the judges are given the right number of cases that involved mental illness, they end up exaggerating the figures by making them look as if they were too many thus inciting the public to have conflicting reaction on the same (Jons, 1999). Such ideas that are misinformed could lead to general bias that influence the decision concerning the mentally ill thus leading to unfair judgment in most of the cases. Case Studies. New Zealand(NZ). In NZ, the people who are found to be not guilty by reason of insanity(NGRI) are released by the courts under special conditions. They undergo treatment, rehabilitation and monitoring by the forensic services on mental health(FMHS) (Jons, 1999). Some of the patients are treated as special cases and can only be released or discharged upon the assent of the minister in charge. This of course, depicts the concern of the public about the risk that is bound to be faced if such people are taken back to the society. The FMHS department has the task of both seeing to it that the patients recover on time and also making sure that the public is protected against such patients. Despite the presence of the FMHS department, there is still the concern about the likelihood of the criminals to go back to the society and cause more crimes and havoc (Peter, 1982, pp. 2). Such cases have not been focused on critically by the FMHS and is becoming a stigma to both the mentally ill and those in the community at large. The acquittees on mental grounds are rehabilitated for a long period of time until such a time when the outcomes are inevitable. Also as a way of treating the patients, the public is to be informed so that their attitude changes in order for there not to be any form of stigma (Peter, 1982, pp. ). A research was carried out by students of a local University on the outcome of the efforts by the FMHS, the patient treatment duration and also looked at the rates at which the criminals are committing crimes after being acquitted. The findings of the research suggested that those offenders who committed major crimes were detained for a long period of time than those who committed less serious offenses. It went ahead to point out that patients were released on the basis of their recovery and not on the duration of time they spent in the hospitals. In England and Wales. In England, there was a scenario in which a person of an adult nature was detained on the grounds of having committed a crime and yet he was mentally ill. The victim had been referred to the hospitals mental rehabilitation unit by one of the courts in England (Finke, 1989, pp. 403). It meant that the doctor who was taking care of him was in charge of renewing his detention period but was not in charge of carrying out medical examinations in case of any challenges arising about the case. An independent doctor would be brought in to carry out the examination in order to avoid biasness. The patient had been classified as one with acute mental disorder and yet in real sense, he was suffering from confusion and a state of disturbance, a condition he developed in his early adulthood (Finke, 1989, pp. 406). Several doctors refused to reclassify him and suggested that he belonged to the mental rehabilitation clinic. A medical officer ones examined the patient and gave contradicting views from those of the other doctors. They then came to an understanding that the patient would be reclassified. Thereafter, several cases of the sort came up but were treated differently from the first one (Finke, 1989, pp. 08). In Australia (Victoria State). It is very clear under section twenty cap one of the crimes Act of nineteen ninety seven that only a person suffering from mental disorder and that he/she is proved to have committed a crime at a time when he was suffering from the illness, can be allowed to used the defense of mental impairment. This meant that the person either committed the crime and was not aware of the quality and nature of the crime or the person was not aware that the conduct and manner with which he/she committed the crime was not right (Finke, 1989, pp. 405). Here in Victoria, if a person is found to be not guilty on the grounds of NGRMI(not guilty by reason of mental impairment, the person is declared to be put under supervision by the court as per part five of the crimes act of nineteen ninety seven or the court declares the person to be unconditionally released. The order may give conditions on the release or may put the defendant in custody. The order is then supposed to be reviewed by the supreme court of justice and by its discretion may order that the person be released. Such reviews are really taking center stage in Victoria. There were a number of attempts aimed at allowing the courts to look for alternative measures to be put in place in order to address the issues of mental impairment. The problem that arose was that the alternatives were planted fully on the courts and not the other organs of government (Capylon, 1984). This led to a situation where there was no significance in the decrease of the number of people who were accused to have committed crimes. The type of system adopted was the Governors pleasure system(GPS) and it was viewed as being unfair by some people. This system could detain someone in custody for a very long period of time and yet the person is genuinely mentally ill (Capylon, 1984). In some cases, the system would propose that the victims be detained in the hospitals for a longer period of time than what was required. It is quite obvious that different people get different treatment in terms of administering verdicts and this is as a result of the type of system being used in Victoria. Some of the cases need a longer period of time on treatment while others require shorter lengths of time. This system does not recognize that. The crimes act, for instance, says that a judge passing a judgment of NGRMI(not guilty by reason of mental impairment), may unconditionally discharge or take an order of supervision (Capylon, 1984). After that, the supervision of the victim is maintained by the court at all times unless otherwise stated. The legislation simply means that its main motive is not to punish the victim but to take care of the safety of the public. In any circumstance, it must be the scenario because the accused has not yet been proved guilty by the courts. Besides, the safety of the victim is also of paramount importance and therefore, care should be taken at any stage of the case in order to avoid further interference with the mental condition of the accused. The courts of appeal and the high courts have time and again deliberated on the issue of dangerousness. The issue is very vital in deciding whether or not a person is supposed to be kept in custody or be taken to the detention facilities. This is thought to present a bone of contention between the different tribunals and organs of law (Capylon, 1984). It goes without saying that the adopted reforms have gone a long way to address the issues of dealing with the mentally impaired and the insane in regard to the type of crime they might have committed and the condition is which they committed the crimes. Such reforms go out of the way to address the difficulties encountered while dealing with the problems brought about by mental insanity. These reforms suggest to some extend that the identified problems be given new solutions with the aim of solving them ones and for all (Feusch, 1980). It is however, very difficult to rule out any possibilities of challenges arising concerning the reforms. Such challenges include researches on the brains functionality and the possibility of studying the behavior of humans. These when done, will be of paramount use when dealing with such issues in the future. The problem of dangerousness predictability is the major worry at hand as it is assumed that the moment a person commits a crime in the first place, he/she is bound to do the same time and again. This of course is a wild goose chase when the NGRMI is applied to such like a situation (Feusch, 1980). This debate has opened a Pandoras box and has made courts to take an approach that is conservative when acquitting the victims who have the ability of causing harm to the community and to themselves in the future. This type of approach goes hand in hand with the high courts principles on sentencing which says that the society should be protected against any form of harm and be given the first priority (Feusch, 1980). One would say that it is in the area of psychology that bigger and greater ideas are to take place. Such advances to some extend will give solutions to the predicaments associated therein. Approaches such as complete treatment of the mental illness using therapy and strong medication are highly recommended. Recommendations. Much efforts should be put in place in order to address the problem of dealing with mental impairment and insanity. Reforms should be made in the existing legislations in order to seal any loopholes that might see some people getting unfair verdicts during judgment as others face the full force of law (Peters, 1982). It is therefore in the best interest of the courts, tribunals and the public at large to spearhead the implementation of such reforms in order for there to be fairness in the way such cases are handled. Proper approaches should be made so that victims acquitted on grounds of mental impairment and insanity are taken care of so that they do not become a menace in the society and to themselves too. Conclusion. It is rather uncalled for that despite the many approaches and advances that have been made in the recent past, no much effort has been put in place to adopt them and implement them cross board. Differences have been witnessed in the manner in which verdicts have been passed in different jurisdictions as it turns out to be unfair in some situations depending on who is being judged. This in itself is a challenge that needs to be addressed and a viable solution be found and effected with adequacy. Further research is needed in this field to address the various problems that are causing ripples in the courts of law and in the judiciary at large. If these are not addressed, there are bound to be a lot of problems in the corridors of law.

Overcoming Barriers to Inclusion for Physically Disabled

Overcoming Barriers to Inclusion for Physically Disabled Special Educational Needs (SEN) are learning differences, difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for a child to learn than other within their peer group. This could be behavioural difficulties, emotional, social and intellectual difficulties. Defining inclusion refers to the process of educating students with disabilities along with their general peers. The general goal is to allow children with disabilities to be educated with their peers in the regular classroom to the maximum extent appropriate for the learning in the least restrictive environment. For some children this means being with typical peers all day and for others it may mean, mainstreaming. (www.amazon.co.uk 2009) The inclusion process is dependent on the child individual needs; they use an Individual Education Plan (IEP) team for example parents, teachers and other school staff put strategies together for inclusion. The IEP is the basic right of any child with a disability. Physical educational can provide many positive benefits for pupils with or without disabilities. Physical Education (P.E) can provide the opportunity to socialise with peers and develop relationships has well as developing their motor skills. Many children with disabilities do not have the opportunity to socialise outside of school hours or participate in physical activities. They depend on this interaction to meet their social needs. (www.amazon.co.uk 2009) Researchers found that for those who are fortunate to participate in an inclusive education do find themselves to have more self worth. On the downside, teachers attitudes to inclusion have a direct effect on inclusion working. If teachers are not open and tolerant to the childs physical needs the child will not be has relaxing and benevolent. Teachers need to be patient with students who learn at a slower pace and accept the responsibilities of incorporating activities to suit regardless of ability level. Its imperative that teachers sees the children first then recognise the disability. Many disabled children were considered has ‘in educable until 1970. Before 1970 children were segregated from their families and put into ‘special hospitals or institutions. In 1978 the Warnock Report was the biggest ever investigation into SEN (Special Educational Needs), this report put the issues of integration of disabled children in mainstream schools for the first time. (inclusion.uwe.ac.uk) Nearly 30 years after Baroness Mary Warnock ‘inclusion into mainstream school, she acknowledges that ‘inclusion had failed. Mary Warnock stated and admitted that ‘schools did not always provide properly for children with disabilities and proposed a radical review of the system. (Guardian 2008) Since the revision of the SEN code of practice there have been several changes for the better. SENCO, head teacher and governing body with other members of staff have an imperative responsibility in the role of providing an inclusive education for those with disabilities. SENCO welcomed the SEN code of practice but they were still concerned with some of the difficulties they were facing in implementing the code. The difficulties they were facing were the lack of resources, time constraints and low status. However the codes of practice have become more effective in their provision for pupils with disabilities by setting them new targets. In recent years teaching assistance has been working alongside teachers to give extra support for children with SEN. Having the extra support in classrooms helps secure mainstream education for all instead of segregation into separate ‘special schools. John OBrien an inclusion consultant says that adults have an important role in helping children to build responsible relationships with each other, especially when those relationships are across a social fracture line like race, gender and disabilities. Developing (inclusion.uwe.ac.uk 2009) inclusion means ending segregation, inclusion is a developing process and is concerned with breaking barriers to help learning increase. During the 1980s and 1990s there was much investment in new special schools to meet the needs of children with learning and physical disabilities. The motivation for these separate schools was that mainstream education was unable to provide the additional support and care that was required. Since the start of the 21st century there has been a political shift in thinking with many special schools closing or merging with their nearest primary or secondary school or college. The social aspect of education is crucial to all learners and that a persons learning or physical difficulties are best met in an inclusive social environment. (www.pedagogy 2009) There are a range of barriers that children face, the three I looked at were inclusion, barriers to inclusion and multi agency working. Inclusion came into force in 1990 and the purpose for this new legislation was to eradicate potential barriers. This was so children could benefit fully from an effectual inclusive education. The belief behind the new legislation was to include all regardless of their impairment to a full time education and for them to grow to the best of their ability. Even though society has moved forward there is still some segregation. Current legislation should be seen in a chronological context as part of a slow process of change for the better. Some barriers children also face are the lack of motivation due to it being painful and tiring for them. However for sensory and learning disabilities the world may seem disorganised and baffling because of their impairment. Another barrier children also face is over protective parents, treating their children childlike and unable. Therefore it is often a great concern for parents when their disabled child starts to express and assert themselves. For many disabled children it is important part of their life to express their identity and feeling (inclusion.uwe.ac.uk 2009). The aims of the Multi Agency Services are to work for disabled children. The services are to provide families with an effective team of supporters to help families in managing their disabled childrens complex health care needs at home. The multi agency is working and making a significant difference to children and their families. However a number of social and emotional barriers for families still remain. (pg 78 making a difference). Mainly families still struggle with daily routines (such as sleep deprivation) to trying to sort out social activities for themselves and their disabled child. The multi agency service had enabled families to short breaks and day trips to elevate some of the pressure of being their childs twenty four hour carer. There are also some families with a disabled child or children who receive no support with help in calming benefits despite being on a low income. Some families felt that there was a lack of co-ordination and flexible support from the multi agency services thus leaving them to suffer emotional pressure. Even though Multi Agency Services had helped some children they are still faced with a multiple of barriers. The barriers they face where exercising their basic human rights, this included feelings that they could not have the rights to communicate, the rights to be independent, the rights to develop friendships and relationships, and to participate in ordinary leisure and recreational activities and the right to be consulted and informed about their care and support. (pg 78 Making a Difference). Although there is still room for improvement within the multi agency service, Overall families that have been involved with the agency have reported that they felt their quality of life had improved. The models of disability provides a framework for understanding the way in which people with impairments experience disability, This helps society to understand the impact society has on impairments. There are two main models which are the social and medical model. The social model has been designed by disabled people. People with a disability says that barriers exist within society and the way society is organised. Before the social model had been developed disabled people felt that they had to voice their opinions because society would discriminate and exclude them from society. The aim for the social model is to remove barriers so that a disabled person can have the same opportunities has everyone else. Society has started to change because a person with impairment can use public transport and gain full access to building thus making them no different to an able bodied person. Under the medical model disabled people are defined by their illness or medical condition. Disabled people are often seen as the problem in society and that its them who should learn to adapt to society and not society to them. The medical model view that disabled people need to be cured or cared for and professional justify that its acceptable for a disabled person to go into a specialised school or being isolated at home where only their basic needs are met. The professionals determine which school the child will attends and the sort of education supplied. The professional are the ones creating some barriers has it will limit their opportunities, thus creating stereotypes who will pity, fear and patronise them instead of working together for a inclusive environment. (www.fepdfscotland In conclusion barriers are starting to be knocked down and people with impairments are starting to be heard. Disabled children want to be respected and listened to and to be able to play with friends, to feel safe and be comfortable. Some other potential barriers were that children faced were feelings of segregation has they would be left out of day to day activities. Some people take for granted that having a disability would prevent the children from having fun thus resulting in isolation. Some families also reported that they did not know where and how to get help and the other barriers they face were actually persuading someone that help was needed. Their Families also found that the provisions they were finally provided with was too little and too late to make the best possible improvement to the quality of their everyday life. For the disabled child parents they found that they miss out on full entitlements to benefits because some services tended not pass on the proper informa tion needed. Some other potential barriers families have faced were the very long waiting list for intervention, equipment and adaptions which meant the loss of integration for children and their needs. Families with disabled children have a real struggle with finding the right services and information to suit their childs needs and when they do finally get the right sort of help they always have to repeat their painful stories to different members of staff. Some services tend to work towards their own priorities rather than what best for the child, this is a particular issue in the transition from childhood to adulthood where they need to consider options of accommodation and employment depending on the person individual needs. Families also found it harder to contribute to everyday life in ways where non-disabled families took for granted. At worst, this can result in social exclusion for all the family. (www.audit-commission 2009) restricted access, service gaps or bullying cultu re put pressure on the whole family. For many children and families there tends to be at least one outstanding member of staff that will give the family support, empathy and expertise. Having such expertise has given the families of disable children the support required which have helped make a difference in a small way. Other staffs as demonstrated a child- centred approach and motivation to work beyond their strictly defined role.

The Evolving Roles of Women in the Economies of Greece and Italy Essays

The Evolving Roles of Women in the Economies of Greece and Italy The role of women in Greek and Italian culture has come a long way since the ancient days. In patriarchal societies, women were restricted to household chores, and were allowed little to no involvement in politics or economic matters. Since these times, major cultural shifts in each of the countries have helped lead the nations to a more western perception of sex roles in their cultures. In the following paragraphs, we will see how historical events have shaped the roles of women in Greek and Italian culture into their present form. Women in Greece Creation Myth To set the tone for how women were perceived in ancient Greece, we first turn to the Greek myth of women's creation. In 700 BC, the historian Hesiod wrote his account of their creation is his Theogony. He writes that women were created as a punishment for men when they first acquired fire. The craftsman god Hephaestus molded the image of a Virgin, Athena dressed her up and they presented the "lovely curse" to the men, for whom she became a hopeless, deadly trap (Blundell). Hesiod goes on to describe women as deceptive creatures, never easing the pains of man's poverty, but always eager to share in his wealth. Hesiod further illustrates these traits in the description of the first woman, Pandora. Opening her jar of curses, she changed the lives of all men, who once lived in an Eden-like world. Women are seen from then on as sort of gift-curse, whose acceptance into society is essential to its continuation, but inevitably brings trouble (Blundell). Transition Periods: Archaic Age: 750-500 BC. Tracing back to the archaic age, we find the sources of women's oppression in Ancient... ...tute of Japanese Studies.? Economic & Social Data Rankings/Greece? <http://web.hhs.se/personal/suzuki/o-English/Greece.html> EIJS.? European Institute of Japanese Studies.? Economic & Social Data Rankings/Greece? <http://web.hhs.se/personal/suzuki/o-English/Italy.html> Fantham. Women in the Classical World.? Oxford University Press, New York 1994.IPC.? Interactive Population Center.? Recognizing and Promoting Women?s Key Economic Roles.? <http://www.unfpa.org/intercenter/role4men/recognize.htm> Vivante.? Women?s Roles in Ancient Civilizations.? Greenwood Press, Westport 1999. MacAlister, Elliott. Women?s Roles in the Fisheries. ?? 1997 Zhao, Megan.? Women in the Renaissance ??<http://info-center.ccit.arizona.edu/~ws/ws200/fall97/grp13/part3.htm> 1997 The Evolving Roles of Women in the Economies of Greece and Italy Essays The Evolving Roles of Women in the Economies of Greece and Italy The role of women in Greek and Italian culture has come a long way since the ancient days. In patriarchal societies, women were restricted to household chores, and were allowed little to no involvement in politics or economic matters. Since these times, major cultural shifts in each of the countries have helped lead the nations to a more western perception of sex roles in their cultures. In the following paragraphs, we will see how historical events have shaped the roles of women in Greek and Italian culture into their present form. Women in Greece Creation Myth To set the tone for how women were perceived in ancient Greece, we first turn to the Greek myth of women's creation. In 700 BC, the historian Hesiod wrote his account of their creation is his Theogony. He writes that women were created as a punishment for men when they first acquired fire. The craftsman god Hephaestus molded the image of a Virgin, Athena dressed her up and they presented the "lovely curse" to the men, for whom she became a hopeless, deadly trap (Blundell). Hesiod goes on to describe women as deceptive creatures, never easing the pains of man's poverty, but always eager to share in his wealth. Hesiod further illustrates these traits in the description of the first woman, Pandora. Opening her jar of curses, she changed the lives of all men, who once lived in an Eden-like world. Women are seen from then on as sort of gift-curse, whose acceptance into society is essential to its continuation, but inevitably brings trouble (Blundell). Transition Periods: Archaic Age: 750-500 BC. Tracing back to the archaic age, we find the sources of women's oppression in Ancient... ...tute of Japanese Studies.? Economic & Social Data Rankings/Greece? <http://web.hhs.se/personal/suzuki/o-English/Greece.html> EIJS.? European Institute of Japanese Studies.? Economic & Social Data Rankings/Greece? <http://web.hhs.se/personal/suzuki/o-English/Italy.html> Fantham. Women in the Classical World.? Oxford University Press, New York 1994.IPC.? Interactive Population Center.? Recognizing and Promoting Women?s Key Economic Roles.? <http://www.unfpa.org/intercenter/role4men/recognize.htm> Vivante.? Women?s Roles in Ancient Civilizations.? Greenwood Press, Westport 1999. MacAlister, Elliott. Women?s Roles in the Fisheries. ?? 1997 Zhao, Megan.? Women in the Renaissance ??<http://info-center.ccit.arizona.edu/~ws/ws200/fall97/grp13/part3.htm> 1997

The Impact of Slavery on Black Women Essay -- Slavery Essays

The Impact of Slavery on Black Women â€Å"Only by experience can any one realize how deep, and dark, and foul is that pit of abominations.† (Jacobs, 120). These words are spoken by Harriet Jacobs (also known as Linda Brent) and after reading about her life experience as a slave, I have come to believe that slavery was far worse for women than it ever was for men. Jacobs never states that black slave men had it easy during the slave years, in fact she tells a few stories about how some slave men were beaten. She also tells about the life experience of a slave girl, herself. Her own experiences made me feel blessed that I was never born as a black woman during the time of slavery. I do not think that I would have been strong enough to endure such times. Let’s begin with the living conditions and the rights and honor of a slave, male or female. First of all, slaves were given one pair of shoes, two pairs of pants, and maybe one shirt that was to last them for at least a year. Most of the time, their shoes were used or old shoes. Once their shoes got holes and wore down, they wore nothing on their bare feet, even through the winter times. When it came to rights, no black slave had any rights. When I say any, I mean none. Just to name a few; they, and this was for women too, had no right to protect their families, marry who they wish, or own any property. Black men were considered to have no honor. Having honor was something that the Elite white men believed that only they could possess Honor in their eyes of the white man was represented by a dual. If you were a black slave, you could not defend yourself or your family because according to the whites, slaves and women had no honor. If they even thought about proving themse lves, which was rare, they were either whipped or killed by their Masters. Slaves were not looked at as men. They were looked as property, nothing but a working tool. The physical torture that a slave went through was not based on how they were treated in regards to work, but on how they were punished. Most of the time they were beat with a whip made from cow hide, until they bled. They would whip the slaves until the overseer (the person who watched over the slaves) was tired. Other times, slaves were not so lucky. For example, Frederick Douglas, an American slave, told a story that went like this. (Douglas, 34 & 35) â€Å"Mr. Gore on... ...tress would convince her husband to sell the child. Women were also denied the right to marry because the Mistress did not want the slave to take time away from tending or nursing her white children so that they could take care of their own baby. Hopefully I have explained enough of what I have learned about slavery to make you understand the injustice treatments that the black slaves had to endure. When I look back at what I have learned in these readings, I remind myself how lucky we are. We are able to marry who we want, keep our children, and have the right to be respected as a person. Today people whose children are abducted go through probably an unimaginable devastation, and slaves back then were expected to continue life as if nothing happened. It is very sad. Slave men did suffer but in my opinion, women by far had it the worst. Works Cited Douglas, Frederick, Narrative of The Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave. New York: Random House, Inc., 2000. Evans, Sara M., Born for Liberty. New York: First Free Press, 1997. Jacobs, Harriet, Incidents in the Life of A Slave Girl. New York: Random House, Inc., 2000.

Navigating the Global- Lost in Translation

The 21st century term, globalization, conceptualizes the contemporary breakdown of traditional barriers and structures between cultural paradigms, culminating in an increasingly interconnected and complex global environment. Manfred Stager, REMIT Professor of Global Studies, describes this trend as the â€Å"increasing desalination of conventional parameters within which individuals imagine their communal existence†. Focusing on the redefinition of cultural and physical boundaries, the quote theorizes the complex and Indeterminate nature of an Interconnected world, and as a result. E uncertainty experienced by Individuals who attempt to navigate it. Sophie Copula's â€Å"Lost in Translation† (2003) comments on agglutination's progressive development toward cultural uniformity, utilizing Tokyo to exhibit habitations of Western and Japanese cultures. Similarly, Witt limeade's â€Å"The Whale† explores the invasion of global forces into Maori culture, depicting the increasing stratifications of traditional values and their eventual submergence by the dominant Western Influence.Both texts explore the conflict between global and local, as well as the need to adapt for individuals to form meaningful connections ND a sense of self-identity. The conflict between local and global forces is the underlying message of â€Å"Lost†, focusing on the Journey of Bob and Charlotte as they attempt to navigate the cultural uncertainty of Tokyo. Copula capitalizes on Tokyo modern Identity of a technically- advanced hybrid city, using It as a synecdoche for the spread of global Influences, namely Westernizes and the increasing prevalence of technology.The film commences with a taxi ride through the urban centre of Tokyo, featuring an advertisement of the protagonist, Bob, an American movie star, surrounded by Japanese signs and banners. The inclusion of intense neon-lighting is juxtaposed by camera close-ups of Japanese characters, serving to highlight th e combination of the traditional and modern-day, specifically the global pressure toward technology. The Increasing Influence of western culture Is shown by Bob's advertisement being dominating over its Japanese counterparts through the use of camera framing, central placement and MIS en scene.The paradoxical use of an American actor to advertise a Japanese whisky also comments on the decline of Japanese culture, instead replaced by preference of global westernizes images and influences. Despite the physical location of Japan, Copula emphases the deterioration of Japanese culture when faced by globalization and therefore, the conflict between the local and global. In â€Å"The Whale†, Witt Alhambra similarly explores the conflict between local and global, namely the extension of Westernizes and as a consequence, the dissolution of Maori culture.The short story characterizes a Maori elder as he struggles to preserve his native heritage and tradition, stating â€Å"[The others ] felt the pull of the Apache Maori word â€Å"Apache†, meaning white man, both emphasis the increasing influence of Western culture, in correspondence with the ideas explored in â€Å"Lost†. This is paralleled by the motif of the meeting house, representative of the Maori culture, â€Å"The outtake work is pitted with cigarette burns†¦ A name has been chipped into a carved panel†, depicting not only the physical defacement of the temple but also the cultural deterioration of the Maori.As explored in â€Å"Lost†, the final line, â€Å"the whale lifts a fluke of its giant tail to beat the air with its dying agony', metaphorically alludes to he inevitable nature of global hybrid and destruction of cultural diversity, epitomizing the conflict between local and global. In â€Å"Lost†, the increasingly complex global environment is explored through Bob and Charlotte cultural displacement, which they are able to overcome through emotional connectio ns.Attracted to each other by their cultural similarities and local origins, Bob and Charlotte form a relationship based on mutual loneliness and uneasiness within Japan's unfamiliar surroundings, emphasized in a medium shot of Bob and Charlotte fidgeting in a hotel elevator, in Juxtaposition to the motionless Japanese tarots. Evident in the close-up take of Charlotte leaning on Bob's shoulder in a karaoke bar, their emotional bond enables them to adapt and find connections to Japan's fast-paced global culture with greater confidence.Illustrated through wide- shot tinged with a neutral palette, Charlotte blends indistinguishably among the Japanese crowd in the busy Tokyo street, and Bob's final Journey to Tokyo airport is captured by a hand-held camera panning across Tokyo urban skyline, symbolizing their renewed sense of acceptance and self-identity within the global landscape. Hence, in Lost in Translation, Copula emphasizes the need for individuals to adapt to the global influenc es shaping our world, and to realize our own existence and individuality beyond cultural paradigms.This concept is similarly explored in â€Å"The Whale†, however, in contrast to â€Å"Lost†, the inability to adapt to global influences leads to further cultural displacement and isolation. The protagonist's retreat from the cultural influences of globalization is illustrated in the melancholy tone of â€Å"Better to die than to see this changing world. He is too old for it. He is stranded here†, revealing his feelings of alienation within an increasingly westernizes world.His cultural isolation is explored repeatedly through the use of exclusion pronouns, writing â€Å"They wave at him, and beckon him to Join them. He turns away', again metaphorically showing his rejection of globalization and instead choosing to solely clinging to his traditional beliefs. The desertion by his people for the popularized western society alongside his inability to adapt catalyst t he emotional impact of his cultural, epitomized by the bleak statement â€Å"He will be glad to die†. Unlike â€Å"Lost†, the protagonist is

Pragmatism and the Environment Essay

The environment is at stake. The world we live in is a state of slow death—that the world is dying everyday just as the human body loses body cells every minute. Every natural resource of the world is continually abused without thought of the consequences. In a way, human beings are that of a virus, a systemic biological specie that consumes an abundant and relatively beneficial part, destroys it, moves on to another area, and leaves the consumed, worthless, and decimated. However, human experience teaches us that we cannot always deny the natural law because as intelligible beings capable of understanding, we have the natural ability to adapt to any environment given and finding ways and means to survive. As such, the development of the human race is not possible if not for our natural inclination of adaptability, protection of species, and survival. In the essay Pragmatism and Environmental Thought by Kelly Parker (1996), she mentions â€Å"what we must not try to do is not to master the natural world, but to cultivate meaningful lives within various environments. † This coincides with the natural law of adaptability, in which human beings need not defy standards as defined by nature but to harness it and provide necessary means of survival. Pragmatic Knowledge and Environmental Issues Pragmatism heavily relies on factual understanding rather than the complete belief in the innate ideas of the human mind. William James, John Dewey, Charles Pierce, among other founders of American pragmatism during the start of the century, argued that there are no innate beliefs in which knowledge is based. This means that knowledge is not innately transposed upon the human mind. Rather, experience confirms this â€Å"baseless† knowledge through factual and concrete understanding—that an ideology is only accepted as true if it is to be found practical in application. Human experience is then the basis of such practicality and its truthfulness is defined through practical solutions. The environment is not detached from the pragmatist or any other being. The environment is part of the experience, that there is a symbiotic relationship between the two biological systems as well as other life systems. Parker (1996) emphasized this point in her essay: â€Å"environment, in the most basic sense, is the field where experience occurs, where my life and the lives of others arise and take place† (p. 29). Every circle must have definite bounds in which it interacts and from that interaction is where experience revolves. Through these experiences, there have been developments in the field concerning the environment, especially on ethics. The development of environmental ethics is based on the pragmatic movement. More specifically, the interaction between the two different world views of nature leads to the eventual development of these ethics. These ethics later become moral standards for people until they become a â€Å"norm† of living for most. Based from these practical experiences, these social norms transform into methods of newer forms of social responsibility and enhance environmental awareness such as new laws and legislations concerning the environment, grassroots activism, among others. The Ethical/Global Problem As inferred by the pragmatic view, pragmatism’s role with the environment is more on application rather than theorization. In a more general perspective, human beings have the natural tendency to abuse their surrounding and not to take into account their own actions against different ecological systems around them. This coincides with the debate on moral pluralism and anthropocentrism. Moral pluralism specifies â€Å"no single moral principle or over-arching theory of what is right can be appropriately applied in all ethically problematic solutions† (Parker, 1996, p. 31). There is no ultimate and essential set of moral laws governing every scenario of moral problems. Because of the subjectivity of experience, it cannot be applied to any moral problem because of the lack of objectivity. In relation to environmental cases, there are different moral standards (i. e. , culture, geographical location) that must be taken into account in order for a set of moral/environmental laws to be applied. These different subjective inquiries on what should be protected, allowed, or banned come into a moral dilemma—whether it would be practical or not. Moral pluralism is also related to the problem of anthropocentrism—the prioritization of values for human beings. Human life is placed on greater importance rather than other outside factors. In her article, Parker (1996) further explains this line of reasoning: Again, this is not to say that human whim is the measure of all things, only that humans are in fact the measurers. This must be a factor in all our deliberation in all environmental issues. We can and should speak on other’s behalf when appropriate, but we cannot speak from their experience (p. 2). The essay proposes that we create standards and laws by speaking for ourselves and for the things that we want to protect based on our own experiences and judgment. For instance, the advocates of endangered species or an ecological subsystem represent their â€Å"party† to other human being. It is through the advocates that these creatures are represented in the debate over human need. The Global Challenge With the looming threat of global warming, greenhouse gas, and other ecological concerns, what we should do is concentrate more on proper action and proper representation of all the numerous aspects of the environment. We have already identified several problems that cause environmental distress recently and from these problems, there should be a formulation of steps to quickly counteract these issues. If left ignored or continually debated upon without any concrete formulas of implementation, these problems will continue to grow until they become uncontrollable. The proper need of identifying these problems will help in creating different strategies as well as formulating legal actions that will help protect and preserve environmental issues. The factual and general perspective is the world is dying and it continues to deteriorate as the number of human population increases. The matter of proper action comes into play through the environmental advocacies all around the world that supports of revitalizing planet earth. However, there remains the fact that human beings generally view the environment as something that can be planted, created, destroyed, and recreated again. This cycle implies that even with human intervention, the natural law of nature will still take its place. Society, especially today, should learn to adapt and live harmoniously with the environment in order to create a symbiotic relationship between the two. We also have to address the apathy of humans towards its environment. We should remove from the human mindset that the ecological system that we live in is not infinite and it will soon vanish if we are to let our actions not reflected upon. By examining our actions, we may come to a realization that everything that we do may affect the environment in ways that we might not even know. Removing this unconscious reinforcement may well be one of the keys in solving our environmental problem. The depletion of our natural resources, the unnatural effects of greenhouses gases and the growing number of human population are just a few of many environmental issues that should be given importance. Although these problems are already experiencing drastic developments for the last six years, we already have the initiative and the technology to somehow lessen its steady increase and may eventually, although not essentially eradicate, balance the gap between human state of living and the environment. Living with an ecological system, we must learn how to balance our actions and lifestyles in order to build a beneficial relationship. In this way, everybody wins. Reference Parker, K. (1996) Pragmatism and Environmental Thought. In A. Light & E. Katz (Eds. ) Environmental Pragmatism. London and New York: Routledge (21-37).

Definition of following terms Essay

Time value of money This refers to the principle that a dollar on hand today has more value than a dollar received sometime in the future. Keown, A. J., Martin, J. D., & Titman, S. (2014). Financial Management: Principles and Applications (12th ed.). : Pearson Education, Inc.. Efficient market Refers to the type of market where everyone receives the same time of information and prices are reflected based on this information. Business Dictionary.com. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/efficient-market.html Primary versus secondary market Primary market refers to the securities a company sells for the first time for the purpose of raising money. Securities traded after initial investment are done through the secondary market. In the primary market, the issuing firm receives the money; in the secondary market if the shareholder of the firm decides to sell he receives the money. Keown, A. J., Martin, J. D., & Titman, S. (2014). Financial Management: Principles and Applications (12th ed.). : Pearson Education, Inc.. Risk-return tradeoff This principle is based on the risk that investors are willing to take for a promise of higher returns on investments. Keown, A. J., Martin, J. D., & Titman, S. (2014). Financial Management: Principles and Applications (12th ed.). : Pearson Education, Inc.. Agency (principal and agent problems) Refers to the problem companies face in motivating their managers who act as agents in pursuing the interests of the owners (shareholders). Keown, A. J., Martin, J. D., & Titman, S. (2014). Financial Management: Principles and Applications (12th ed.). : Pearson Education, Inc.. Market information and security prices and information asymmetry Security prices change as information is provided to all investors. In contrast in information Asymmetry one party may benefit from having more sources of information and therefore making better decisions. What is Information Asymmetry. (2014). Retrieved from http://www.investorwords.com/2461/information_asymmetry.html Keown, A. J., Martin, J. D., & Titman, S. (2014). Financial Management: Principles and Applications (12th ed.). : Pearson Education, Inc.. Agile and lean principles The lean principle in Finance refers to the production practice that companies use in which they target to minimize waste and use the the least amount of resources to meet the customers’ needs. Organizations that use agile type of processes allow to work on smaller projects to revamp production, maximize collaboration and allow for more flexible schedules. What is Project Management. (2014). Retrieved from http://www.villanovau.com/resources/project-management/what-is-project-management/#.VFKo2vldW So Return on investment It’s a form of investment measurement that shows how efficiently a company is using its resources. This ratio is usually expressed as a percentage. http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/return-on-investment-ROI.html Cash flow and a source of value This is the money a company has after it has paid its bills and after it has used the money necessary to operate the business. The value of a company’s investment lies in the amount of cash flow available to spend. The Free Dictionary. (2009). Retrieved from http://financial-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/cash+flow Project management This refers to the processes that involves all aspects of a project, ensuring that it is done well, on time and within budget. Processes in Project management include initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing. What is Project Management. (2014). Retrieved from http://www.villanovau.com/resources/project-management/what-is-project-management/#.VFKo2vldW So Outsourcing and offshoring Outsourcing happens when a company contracts the services of a third party to do the work for the purpose to increase efficiency and lower costs. As opposed to offshoring this does not have to happen out of the country. Offshoring happens when a company moves abroad to reduce the costs of running its operations. What is the Difference between Outsourcing and Offshoring. (2003-2014). Retrieved from http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-the-difference-between-outsourcing-and-offshoring.htm Inventory turnover Inventory turnover is a form of measurement of how frequently a company sells and replenishes its inventory. The Free Dictionary. (2009). Retrieved from http://financial-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/ Inventory+Turnover Just-in-time inventory (JIT) JIT inventory system maximizes the profit by just keeping enough inventory as needed and making more frequent orders, saving space and the money associated with keeping up with large inventories. Wise Geek. (2013-2014). Retrieved from http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-a-just-in-time-inventory.htm Vendor managed inventory (VMI) It is the type of inventory model where the manufacturer is responsible for keeping up with the levels of the company’s inventory. Vendor Managed Inventory. (2014). Retrieved from http://www.vendormanagedinventory.com/definition.php

Emotions make the world go round Essay

Emotions are one of the unique traits of humans. Not all living things created by God were able to have emotions, only men are permitted to feel and express. Although animals have the ability to sense some things, it is not as powerful and as expressive as that of the humans. Human emotion speaks a thousand words†¦ in silent mode. What we have to understand when it comes to emotion is the reality that it comes from different factors which affects the cycle of emotion and feelings. Organism and environment has something to do with this but it is always linked to the question, â€Å"how do you feel? † which basically means that in emotions, feelings are essential (Kuhl, 1986). Do you ever wonder why a new born baby cries after his or her birth? Scientifically speaking, babies cry after birth because they are cold but there is a long story behind this one which we will not elaborate anymore. Looking in another aspect, away from science, babies cry because it signifies their ability to live. It serves as a sign that they are alive and it assures the people inside the delivery room about the baby’s existence. Looking at this situation through science’s perspective, an infant’s emotion is more likely associated with both conditioning and stimulation. Remember that around four (4) minutes before the baby is born, something happens inside his or her body which triggers the crying when the time to get out of the mother’s womb comes (Morley, 2002). On the other hand, when the baby is already born, we all know that the doctor taps the baby which ignites a little sense of feeling or sensitivity on the baby’s side. Therefore, conditioning and stimulation happens before and after the baby is born, thus, it is clear that there is really an effect both inside and outside the baby’s body. Although science can explain almost everything in life including emotions and feelings, in the end, it does not really matter that much when you were used in feeling and not thinking too much. Emotions are reactions in everything which happens to you. Others might associate it with adrenalin rush but thinking outside the box, emotions were proofs regarding your humanity. It is not the basis of weakness but instead, it is the sign that you are alive and doing well. Many people were not able to express their emotions like anger, fear happiness and sadness and decide to go to medical doctors for check ups. Perhaps, this is one proof that emotions are not just a thing in our life but ability. Works Cited Kuhl, J. (1986). Motivation and information processing: A new look at decision making, dynamic change, and action control. In R. M. Sorrentino & E. T. Higgins (Eds. ), Handbook of motivation and cognition: Foundations of social behavior (pp. 404-434). Chichester: Wiley. Morly, G. M. (2002). Why Do Babies Cry? The Anatomical and Physiological Changes During the Moments After Birth. http://www. cordclamp. com/Why Do Babies Cr1. htm

Financial Statement Analysis Essay

Introduction The use of financial ratio is very common in accounting and finance process. These ratios are used for evaluation of a business performance, as well as identifying potential problems. Each ratio is used to inform about various factors like the solvency, earning power, and debt load of the business. These ratios measure the relationship arising between two or more modules of the financial statements and pose a greater meaning if the results are compared to industry standards of businesses with same size and activity. There are various types of ratios including return or profitability ratios, which offer information regarding the management’s performance in the usage of resources. The other ratio example is liquidity ratio, which are used to demonstrate the business ability to pay its present obligations. This measures in short and long term views. The other ratio is the leverage, which examines the extent in which a company has depended on borrowing so that it can finance its operations. The other ratio is the efficiency ratio, which assesses the firm’s credit use, assets, and inventory (Libby, Libby, & Short, 2011). Identifying the company using the exhibits 1 IT service provider 2 Retail grocery stores 3 Commercial airlines 4 Pharmaceutical preparations 5 Liquor producer and distributor 6 Mobile Phone service Providers 7 Semiconductor manufacturers 8 Computer software 9 Commercial banking 10 integrated Oil and gas Conclusion The use of ratios is a very important aspect for the firm. It helps in offering information regarding the managements performance in the usage of resources, demonstrating the business ability to pay its present obligations, examining the extent in which a company has depended on borrowing so that it can finance its operations, and assessing the firms credit use, assets, and inventory. This makes it possible to rate the company’s success. References Libby, R., Libby, P. A., & Short, D. G. (2011). Financial accounting. New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin.

Corporate Social Responsibility Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 1

Corporate Social Responsibility - Essay Example When determining strategies, it is important to integrate social issues as an element of a business’s social responsibility to further instill social realignment of businesses. A firm must implement those social business practices that have economic benefits. The business must carry out its operation in a socially responsible manner which reflects its commitment to corporate social responsibility. Do for the society which is legally required and also benefits the business. Firstly, the business must be able to make enough profits so that future costs can be covered and social responsibility met (Fred R, 2005. Corporate social responsibility can be defined as a form of corporate self-regulation incorporated into a business model. The concept first came into use after the advent of many multinational firms after 1960s. The self-regulated conduct of businesses must abide by the law, ethical standards and international customs. The goal of CSR is to basically endorse the firms to take responsibility for their actions and must not negatively impact the environment, consumers, employees, stakeholders and communities. The must make sure not to harm the public in any way and promote their interest by encouraging community development. It instills the concept of ‘triple bottom line’ that is; people, planet, and profit by including public interest in the decision-making of firms. The businesses have to bring some much-needed changes into their mission statements to comply with the social responsibility. Many businesses have started to introduce the concept of social accounting which emphasizes the need for corporate accountability, that is; developing appropriate measures and reporting techniques to those who the firm is accountable to. There are some standards and frameworks which the business can use as a guideline for their auditing and reporting like AccountAbility’s AA1000 standard. CSR requires firms to produce ethically strong annual fin ancial report and sustainability report so that their social, economic and environmental performance can be measured (Visser, 2008). A business might have to forgo short-term financial benefits when adopting CSR strategy, but there are many long-term advantages that help a business in future, other than financial ones. By adopting CSR, the recruitment and retention can improve. The recruits are more likely to enroll in a firm which follows CSR. The morale of the employees is also lifted when they are asked to participate in social activities like payroll giving, fundraising programmes and community volunteering. A company’s decade old reputation and goodwill can be easily damaged by socially irresponsible actions like corruption scandals or environmental accidents. Negative reactions from media, government, courts and regulators can affect the public image of a firm. CSR also helps build consumer loyalty by practicing distinctive ethical values. Successful businesses such as The Body Shop and American Apparel have a strong reputation for integrity and best practice and therefore maintain a strong brand loyalty. The Body Shop strictly opposes product testing on animals and support community trade with developing countries. Companies easily get a license to operate in many countries when they follow Corporate Social Responsibility. There is also a great argument of insincerity and hypocrisy attached to CSR. Some people

Psychology Journal Article Summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Psychology Journal Article Summary - Essay Example While at first he believed that the relationship merely helped the client, in his later works he showed that it not only benefits the client in being able to share, but it also helps the therapist understand the patient, and more accurately assess their personality and needs. Currently, the view of therapeutic alliance is that as the relationship between the client and the therapist develops, the patient is able to transfer their feelings and thoughts and frustrations to the therapist, which allows the patient to let go of what they are carrying. This is a far more successful therapy than merely sharing feelings with a complete stranger. While alliance has been shown to be helpful during therapy, future work and study is still necessary to determine exactly how helpful the therapeutic alliance is, and when it is best used, and when it is best foregone. Future studies will allow therapists to review and study the affect of the therapeutic relationship on the patient-therapist interaction, and the overall success of therapy.