Media influence in Vietnam

Media influence in Vietnam BY jetports In the sass's the US was pushed Into a large scale Involvement In the crisis in Vietnam. This crisis called for thousands of men to be called to duty for the greater good of democracy. While the war was taking place nearly 8,000 miles off the US shores, it was also unfolding in front of the eyes of the US citizen on national television. For the first time in warfare, the outcome of what unfolded on television instead of what unfolded on the battlefield played a larger role in determining the victor than the opposing force.This is the first but in no way the last time that media ill have a determining effect on the outcome of the war. Many people question the true effect that the US media had on the outcome of the war because they don't realize how much of the war the American public was truly seeing. As the war was beginning to unfold, the average American family was centered around the television. Families back home could sit in front of the TV at any time they desired and see a whole days worth of fighting.At the height of escalation, Robert Elegant served as foreign correspondent for Newsweek. â€Å"War has always been beastly, but the Vietnam war was the first war exposed to television cameras and seen in rustically every home, often In Miming color. Not surprisingly this close-up view of devastation and suffering, repeated daily, strengthened the growing desire for peace†l. Through his own personal experience, Robert saw firsthand the effects of media on the war. By seeing this daily occurrence of media coverage, him and many others can agree that it is to blame for US defeat.At the beginning of the war United States reporters and correspondents set out on relaying American progress in Vietnam back to the homegrown. As the war continued, attempting to send good news home showed to be nearly Impossible. Even with the Increase of media coverage, the U. S. Reporters weren't even able to accomplish what they had or iginally set out to do in the first place, instead they practically diminished what little support remained. If anything what they accomplished was the exact opposite of what they set out to do.As Robert Elegance's corresponding continued, much of what he and other reporters captured stayed the same. â€Å"The best of their reporting accurately conveyed the horror of war. † The news that would reach the living rooms of Americans everywhere would be the news of loss and tragedy In the Jungles of Vietnam. In a time when President Johnson needed public support the most he lost it, thus creating a war on two fronts, one against the Vietnamese, and the other against his own people.With a war for public support beginning, President Johnson and many other prominent United States political figures were beginning to worry. Johnson knew that if he was to lose all of his public support then he would surely lose the war. George Moss, a professor at City college, has a much different view point on the effect of media. Moss believes that the media had no effect on the outcome, the main cause for the loss was distrust n Johnson. During the Et offensive, much of US public support declined. â€Å"Many Americans had turned against the war and had distrusted Johnson long before Et†al.Before the Et offensive had occurred, public support was rather high but once the war had heightened in the late sass's Johnson had begin to see his lack of support. Moss' theory that distrust In Johnson had caused the US defeat In Vietnam Is quickly which is simply the misinterpretation of facts and use of devastating footage. â€Å"Wars have been badly reported in the past. Facts have been MIS-stated, and their interpretation has been biased. Emotions have been deliberately inflamed, and the reporters have ridden to fame on waves of misinterpretation.But never before war coming from the media, the loss of public support can be directly related to the coverage from reporters and corre spondents. Many people may say that the reason that Vietnam was lost was because of poor military or political planning when entering Vietnam, without the media however the people would have never seen how much of a devastating impact these flaws caused. â€Å"The United States lost the Vietnam War because flawed political and military strategic thinking had trapped it in a instant stalemate that would never have sustained popular support. This may have been the case, however without the coverage of the media citizens would have had no way of being informed of these flaws and public support may have never diminished because of it. â€Å"At any given moment, a million images were available to the camera's lens. † When Americans were able to see what was actually happening in Vietnam because of their half hearted politics and military strategy. You may be able to argue that the military and political set ups of the war were flawed but they will ultimately trace back to being b rought to light by media coverage.

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High school â€Å"back in the day Betty Joy Par's High school experiences Jack Schaefer Jack. [email  protected] Com Waterloo- After interviewing Betty Joy Parr about her high school experiences I learned many Interesting things. Currently Betty lives in Huston, Texas. Her husband of 53 years Larry Parr was her high school sweet heart. She Just had a birthday and was 74 on May 30th. After attending high school at Roy Miller High School in Corpus Christi, Texas from 1953 to 1958.After graduating with at class of 475 students she went on to work and noir collage as she helped her husband trough collage as she explained, â€Å"There wasn't money for college so I got a job at a Savings and Loan as a Teller. I put my husband thru college In Arlington, Texas. † As she continued about some major things In history that she could remember she said, â€Å"In Dallas witch Is near where we were living at the time Kennedy was assassinated. Everyone was in shock at the bank where I work ed. † She spoke about some of her favorite high school memories of high school.I asked ere what her favorite things were to do or be in was she said, â€Å"being in the Band and football games. I was a twirler or majorette in the band. † As we talked I asked what her favorite subject was she told me keyboarding. She said, â€Å"Our School had Just gotten five new electric typewriters and we each got a chance to use them. † She told to me that she was involved in many things other then just school. She was also involved in yearbook and student counsel as security also expressing that there was other groups that were at school.She said, â€Å"drama team and Y-teens were offered along with the sports of Football, basketball, tennis, track, baseball. † Betty shared that her two best friends are still close with her. She stated, â€Å"Marlene Price and Betty Jane Sorrel were my best friends. Marlene lives In corpus Christi, Texas and Betty Jane lives here In H ouston. She also said that she soul gets together with 12 other friends from high school. As I went on to ask more about how high school was like I asked what the had to wear she responded, â€Å"We would wear neck scarf and sweaters with skirts, lots of ethicists to make them stand out. She also said they has to wear something different at gym time. As I started to learn more about was a normal say was Like I wondered about the teachers she said, â€Å"We thought they were old but we had respect for them. We knew they were there to teach us and that we better listen. She said she never got in real trouble knowing that there would be a bad consequence. I also was Curious about how relationships were back then. She said, didn't date until your sophomore year. † She said for there first date that it would be to the ivies and then it would be a double date.She told me that a typical Friday night was going to the movies or the popular hang out place Mac's Drive Inn or some type As I had learned so much from her I asked about her overall experiences she said, muff don't feel old, you feel the same inside yourself but when you look in the mirror you see you have aged. † I had to laugh a little bit when I hear this. I think that it is interesting and fun to learn about how what I am courtly going trough 60 years latter really has not changes that much.

The Influence of the Professional Sports Leagues Research Paper

The Influence of the Professional Sports Leagues - Research Paper Example Sporting clubs have developed professional governing bodies, which regulate and develop structures that aim at making the sports industry interesting. The aim of the governing bodies is to increase optimum production in the sports industry (KÃ ©senne, 2007: 6). Sports leagues are competitive and are some of the most paying enterprises around the globe. Some of the well-paid personalities are sportsmen. For instance, English Premier League, Champions League, and La-Liga are some of the promising sports leagues that command a lot of profit in the globe. The income that these leagues earn contributes to the GDP of various countries. Rugby, Athletics, Golf, Baseball, Cricket etc are some examples of a sports organization that contributes to the economy. Economists believe the future of the sporting industry has a bright future because the industry does not practice monopoly, which is responsible for poor quality products and high prices witnessed in other commercial sectors. Sports indu stry promotes a free market where the competitiveness of the products influences the quality and prices. Analysts argue that competition in the sports industry is not healthy because of its impact on the labour market (Masteralexis & Hums, 2011:121). In this regard, the rich clubs use high wages to maintain top players in the club, thus gripping top positions in the league. This phenomenon makes favourable competition difficult for the less wealthy clubs, which are not able to buy top players at high market prices. This opportunity makes the wealthy clubs to source for the top players thereby hampering healthy competition in the industry.

Alienation in Hamlet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Alienation in Hamlet - Essay Example * Alienation can be seen within Hamlet's soliloquies, his conversations with other characters and within his actions. Hamlet may be regarded as the prototype for the scores of "angry young men" what have populated literature, poetry, plays and latterly films since he first appeared on the stage. Hamlet's alienation is personified by his opening line: It is the fact that his first line is an aside that so perfectly encapsulates his alienation from a society that he should be the center of. He does not speak the line to his Uncle, or even the Court, but rather as an inward comment aimed at breaking the third wall of the stage for the audience. He is alienated from his world, and part of ours because of it. As the play continues Hamlet's alienation deepens and starts to influence many of those around him. When he decides to put "an antic disposition on" (I.5, 175) the question arises for the rest of the play whether he is playing at being mad, genuinely mad, or perhaps both. Here is the second part of "alienation" - madness that removes a person from the common spheres of reality. But Hamlet's madness is in fact closer to the reality and genuine feeling than those supposedly sane people around him. Thus later in the scene when he is chided for carrying on with his mourning beyond that which is seen as convenient or seemly, he answers, "I have that within which passeth show." (I.2, 85) Others show their feelings on the outside, they are merely masks of feeling while Hamlet genuinely feels on the inside. The fact that he cannot show what he feels properly, or more importantly, act upon what he feels brings further alienation. After the King chides Hamlet for being too gloomy, the latter produces another pun, as he states "not so, my lord, I am too much in the sun" (I.2, 67). Thus the fact that Hamlet is too much in the 'light' for his liking is mirrored with the fact that he is too much a "son". Hamlet cannot forget his father as the rest of the kingdom appears to have found it so easy to do. This sense of aloneness is another case of alienation for the young prince. He uses a bitter kind of humor to try and hide it, but it is a futile attempt. When Gertrude attempts to lighten the mood by saying that Hamlet's attitude "seems" peculiar to him, Hamlet retorts with the following: . . . seems madam Nay, it is. I know not seems. (I.2, 76) Later in the play these themes develop to fruition. When the actor cries over the death of his imaginary lover Hamlet is disgusted with himself, "what's Hecuba to him or he to her" (III.1, 497). Nothing is the silent reply, but the actor can show more emotion than Hamlet when can when his father has been genuinely murdered. In this opening scene the King and Queen say far more to Hamlet than he says in return. This illustrates the fact that words can at times be used to dissemble rather than communicate. The King and Queen use words to hide the obvious impropriety of their marriage so soon after Hamlet's father's death. Hamlet says so little because there is little that needs to be said. He regards the facts about the marriage as so obvious that they

Options for Organization Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Options for Organization - Assignment Example Even though there are many advantages in implementing security systems in organizations there are some problems also. Therefore, the implementation of security should be done in an efficient manner, taking into consideration of all relevant factors relating to the business and the flew of information therein. Even though it is difficult to implement security, it is an inevitable part in any organization. Security enables an organization to manage the risks within the organization. The problems in an organization can be reduced to a great extent with the help of proper security measures. A company’s data can be kept confidential only if it has good security policies. The development and implementation of security policies helps an organization to meet the international standards. â€Å"Security touches so many different areas of business," says Allan Carey, program manager of security services and identity management research at Framingham, Mass.-based IDC. "With any type of new initiative or initiatives being driven by lines of business, security needs to be involved" (Kaplan). The analysis of security is done to recognize the exposure of security in a systematic way. Organizations should also be capable of evaluating the security methods adopted by their partners. The growing nu mber of threats has increased the importance of security in an organization. There can be both internal and external threats to any organization. Many organizations have suffered major losses due to the lack of security and leakage of information into unauthorized hands. Hackers, internal spying etc have become common in organizations. Proper security measures are needed to tackle these threats. The awareness about security requirements is thus very essential for every organization. There are some difficulties in setting and implementing a proper security system in an existing organization. It necessitates more funds to be invested for the implementation of

Metrics Estimation Analysis And Team Assignment Essay

Metrics Estimation Analysis And Team Assignment - Essay Example Various organizations have their specific measures that yield their desired goals; as well failure to measure project progress and performance reduces levels of monitoring and evaluation. Measurements are crucial in problem identification, the position of a certain program and their respective processes. It is good to pinpoint mistakes and errors at the initial stages by use of appropriate measurement tool which yields a more quantifiable accurateness of more complex projects (Pressman 2006). Metrics in its innate form can identify critical risks and accord resolutions before they happen. Importance of measurements therefore, is crucial a strategic, technical and project level. The goals of an organization are initially done before listing questions and identifying the measures to be undertaken. In order to have successful project development, the measures should each have attributes, evaluation, unit and counting rule. The measures are: 1. Support Definition: The supportability of a system e.g. software can be measured by tracking specific pertinent supportability features. The developer and acquirer have the opportunity to obtain knowledge which can be directed to supportability control. The systems support can be described in the form of memory size, I/O (input and output), the process, average module size, module complexity, error rate, supportability and lines of code change. Counting and Measurement: The metric can measure spare memory over time which should not be below any specification requirement. Metrics also tracks amounts of I/O that are reserved as functions of time again the capacity should not be below the given requirements. On the process, throughput capacity entails the amount of time and should not be below specification requirements. Average module size should not exceed requirement specification. Similar scenarios can be recorded by knowing the number of errors, average time required and average lines of code changed per deficiency. Estimation: the measurements need to start at project level and should include project planning, monitoring which will entirely depend on the gathered information through the process of measurement (Pressman 2006) Ana lysis: metrics used are representations of software and the process yielding them. Advanced process metrics is as a result of more mature software development process. It requires accurate data to provide good metrics process. There are indicators that are brought out by measurement of data. The indicator quality influences the analysis process since both objective and subjective measures are required when determining the current program state. The objective data constitutes staff hours, software lines of code, current function points, the prevailing components, list of items to be tested, number of coded units and the potentiality of changes and errors. On the other hand, subjective data could be based on the feelings of individuals or groups comprehension of certain features. Collected data must determine issues to be addressed, which requires understanding of metric meanings through performing multiple data sourcing, studying the data collection process at a lower level, separati on of collected data, emphasizing on different data sources and realizing the development process. 2. Risk Definition: To run projects effectively, risks have to be identified and solutions given appropriately. The users should beware of existing and potential limitations and give actions appropriately. There is good knowledge on the levels of risks that can occur in software development environments. To avoid risks understanding of all phases and data

International Sales Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

International Sales - Term Paper Example The study would focus upon the gaming console industry as the product to be marketed and sold in the Indian consumer market. The choice of nation assumes significance considering the fact that it s considered among the fastest growing economies of the world with a large number of potential consumers. The future chapters would be devoted towards creating a framework for the market entry strategy of the firm in the Indian consumer market. Market Analysis India represents one of the fastest growing consumer markets in the twenty first century. A research conducted by the global consultancy states that the size of the Indian consumer market is like to expand by approximately four times its present value and is likely to be the fifth biggest consumer market by the year 2025. The majority (approximately 68 percent) of this growth would take place in the urban areas. A research report conducted by Nielsen places the nation in the first slot in a survey conducted on consumer confidence. It i s perhaps for this reason that the nation is witnessing increased private equity participation as well as mergers and acquisitions (IBEF, 2010). The growth of the consumer markets can also be related to the burgeoning economy of the nation. India is presently accredited as one of the fastest growing economies with high growth rates. An increased investment has enhanced the consumption levels of in the citizens of the nations as they have reported higher levels of disposable income. This has led to an increase in the demand for goods and services which reflects large scale opportunities for organizations especially those operating from the Western world. New locations are important for these organizations as the present and traditional markets of Europe and North... The essay "International Sales" provides an empirical analysis of the aspect of international expansion and is devoted towards creating a framework for the market entry strategy of the firm in the Indian consumer market. India represents one of the fastest growing consumer markets in the twenty-first century. A research conducted by the global consultancy states that the size of the Indian consumer market is like to expand by approximately four times its present value and is likely to be the fifth-biggest consumer market by the year 2025. The majority of this growth would take place in the urban areas. A research report conducted by Nielsen places the nation in the first slot in a survey conducted upon consumer confidence. It is perhaps for this reason that the nation is witnessing increased private equity participation as well as mergers and acquisitions. The growth of the consumer markets can also be related to the burgeoning economy of the nation. India is presently accredited as one of the fastest growing economies with high growth rates. An increased investment has enhanced the consumption levels of in the citizens of the nations as they have reported higher levels of disposable income. This has led to an increase in the demand for goods and services which reflect large-scale opportunities for organizations especially those operating from the Western world. New locations are important for these organizations as the present and traditional markets of Europe and North America have been saturated.

Risk and Returns Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Risk and Returns - Assignment Example In order to diversify the risk, the assets are held together forming a portfolio. The sum of variance for the portfolio is almost lower than a single average weight of individual portfolio, therefore, minimizing the overall risk of investment (Rachev, 2005).  To clearly illustrate the model, the following capital structure for Wal-Mart stores for the year 2010 is used. Each component cost could be determined using various formulas. For instance, to determine the cost of debt using the Wall mart sore which has $1,000 PV (par value) zero coupon bond outstanding. Assuming that the bonds are currently trading at $ 385.54 with a 10 year maturity period and a tax rate of 40%, then the cost could be determined as follow. Finally the cost of equity would be determined using capital asset pricing model would be used to determine the cost of the components. Assuming that the risk free rate in the market is 4% and having been given the beta factor of 3 for bond and 0 for money market instruments. For a risk take investor, he will consider using debt which is much cheaper than common equity and preference stock. This is a risky investment, though the overall return will be much higher. The average weighted cost of capital will be much lesser i.e. 9% as par the computation above. On the hand if the investor considers using less debt which is cheaper and opt to use more equality and common stock as shown in the capital structure bellow; In conclusion, it is clear that risk is a universal factor in investment decision since no one can really stay away fro it. Though that is the case, risk can be reduced based on individually capability as well as their knowledge. For one to have successful portfolio management, then it will depend on the right mix of all assets and individual investor’s overall risk expectation. One of the key important choices which an investor has to consider is his where his risk tolerance lies. This

Collaboration and Argument Essay Example for Free

Collaboration and Argument Essay Boothe Collaboration and Argument Collaboration is defined as working collectively with others or concurrently to achieve a goal especially in a creative attempt to put together the right elements of success implemented to accomplish something. Argument is defined as controversy or the implication of expression through opinions for an effort to persuade; for the submission that provides support or is in contrast to some idea. Robert Ennis defines an argument as an attempt to support a conclusion by giving reasons for it. (Critical Thinking, 1995) Irving M. Copi, in his Introduction to Logic, defines an argument as a group of propositions of which one, the conclusion, is claimed to follow from the others, which are premises. Collaboration changes the research process because it is a group ideal instead of an individual ideal. Collaboration gives each individual on the team the ability to share creative and innovative thoughts and interact with others by sharing ideas through critical thinking, preparation and work practice with individuals in defined areas which provide an opportunity for each team member to strive for higher standards within the group. Collaboration can be an incentive for the better-prepared students to provide assistance and encourage the members of the team who are most likely not going to meet the goal, and the less-prepared students are likely to work harder so as not to disappoint the other team members. By having a team leader it shares the accountability for student success through frequent use of collaboration as an approach to improving instruction for an effective use of common planning time. Collaboration encourages diversity with a social support system in a more personal environment that will aid in the development of skills, time management and problem solving that can be used on the job and beyond. Collaboration can actually make it easier and harder when having to evaluate sources. The goal is find a way to get knowledgably team members to be productive an establish a formal process to perform work, develop distinct purpose, and assist in the process of better connections among team members. As a group you have to think as a group with one ideal and be able to comprehend and engage structure collaboration process while maintaining a strong affiliation among teammates. Provided that a time line has been created the work load should be evenly distributed for all of the team members and information should be shared willingly. Communication is very important so that all members can equally speak whether positively or negatively about the topic as well as listening to all of the group members. By analyzing different types of collaborative tasks each member can interoperate what is relevant by their own learning skills, strategies and personal experiences that would encourage conversation within the group that provides feedback and encourages questions, negotiations and open mindedness with the differences of each person’s creative and innovative ideals which will generate a good argument. In order for a group to produce their ethos for a team paper it is important that each member knows the definition of an ethos. Ethos, or a reputable position, is a matter of gaining the confidence of the audience by either the character or the author. Respect and trust are both valuable traits that are needed from your audience therefore giving you the authority on your topic so that the group is able to persuade their audience that their ideas are credible, or more credible than someone elses. The ethos for a team paper is produced as a group within the quality of the produced product. With the blended combination and disposition of the group they must be believable or convincing and be able to characterize the differences between fact and opinion based on sound logic and solid evidence that encourages trustworthiness or credibility prototypes within the group and while persuading your audience. Papers that are written collaboratively are created in a different form then papers that are written by an individual due to the fact that collaboration means to work with another or others on a joint project while individual means working independently. Collaborative writing refers to organizing and the planning of shared written documents during the process of team building. As a team you also have more members that can get the job done faster and even sometimes better. Collaboratively written papers start with preliminary discussions of an ideal then on to brainstorming as input is divided into sections so that participation can be achieved by each team member with open channels of communication within the allotted time line so that the assignment can be assessed by the group to provide the final draft. The independent working individually creates their papers differently by doing all of the work on their own with full control of their time limits, methods, process and style. They are responsible for their own argument. The downside is that they are not able to collaborate and get ideals from others and time restraints can be a factor on large tasks and when something becomes too difficult to handle there is no one to assist you. Collaboratively and individually arguments are written differently on the account of facts and opinions that are researched as a group and the individual argument is researched solely by the individual. The members of the group decide on which activities are to be completed as a group and which one should be completed by individual group members. Deliberation improves critical thinking by providing a constant consideration and synthesis of other viewpoints. These issues become the argument for the group. With respect for the other team members opinions will continue to simultaneously push the boundaries of the other team members’ experiences which will create a new mode of thinking, analyzing, criteria and judgment that often reveals new and unique approaches. Team members benefit from reflection and by verbalization. The peer coaching helps all the members, both the high and the low achievers, to become actively involved with the material. When it comes to independent study there is no one else that can incorporate other viewpoints into their own opinions nor or they able to incorporate communication or listening skills, but they are able to avoid conflicts enhance their own effectiveness and efficiency. When writing collaboratively, an argument that is determined by one’s own position should be decided by which side of the issue they are willing to take on or if they are prepared for both sides by matching up each team member’s ability and talent no matter what their strengths or weakness may be. When determining the fundamental quality of an argument it gives the team member the ability to understand the arguments of others and evaluate the quality arguments used to improve their skills. The person who represents knowledgeable information is factual and some team members may have difficulty evaluating arguments on the basis of their quality. By explaining skills that are important to overall argument and by the use of an evaluation the team may show an increased performance by the immediate feedback. By giving the team members the tools to evaluate the production of their own individual work could enhance their ability to find their position. It is also important that the individual who has his own argument is being respectful and open minded so that the team member has the ability to persuade and influence others on similar subjects and while gaining additional information from their team. When a team member supports an argument that they find not to be creditable the reason for that could be the disagreement of opposing viewpoints due to the lack of interest in the topic or a similar subject in which the member is not convinced of the views causing the team member to reject information that is incorrect or irrelevant. In order to avoid conflict within the team, the team member suspends judgment and avoids new solutions that may hinder statements that are not supported by research that could weaken the final paper. Individuals often have a strong emotional connection to the positions they argue in essays because of the all of the challenging research work that they have done to find credible resources. The individual could educate the other team members about their own experiences of encouragement, awareness and understanding of the argument. Depending on the position of each member f the team the discussion of the topic may not all be shared by the same similarly intense connection therefore the role of the team should be a peer review that encourages and contains constructive criticism; this method is used to improve one’s project and not to shoot down anyone’s work. Two common peer review methods are the inspection method and the walk-through method. Work is heavily analyzed throug h the inspection method. As each individual puts in their input and guides the conversation. Each peer then provides comments to help improve the quality of work. Constructive and respectful criticism provides useful feedback even though the team member may show strong emotion on the argument. The best methods of peer review used for evaluating the quality of an argument in a paper is more of a conversation designed to give constructive criticism through discussion and communications. Using groups to give feedback to other group members on specific questions about their own papers that they would like reviewed. Members are encouraged to write down questions at the beginning of the peer review and ask peers to take these questions into consideration while writing their review. This is feedback encourages students to have their work analyzed through questions and deliberations of their own. Advanced peer reviews encourage paper writing as a mode of conducting peer reviews. Self-Evaluations is the assessing one’s own work. When writing collaboratively, the best processes for making sure sections of a project written by different team members are logically consistent is to make sure that the directions are clear, uncomplicated and easy to understand in order to be rational. Write a short introductory paragraph that would introduce the reader to the topic and explain what it is and how it should affect people and also provide a brief history of the issue. The process for evaluating a team paper for plagiarism differs from the process of evaluating ones work is that group writing represents an exclusive challenge because each person has their own different passions, opinions and backgrounds towards writing. Whether the members of the team are not able to make the time lines and strive for the easiest route or intentional or unintentional copy an author’s work the team’s work could suffer. The team should be educated about plagiarism either by self detection or software programs. The team writing process that would produce the strongest arguments would be an argumentative paper that argues for a particular side that has opposing information or opinions that are debatable issues. In order to be most persuasive, understand both sides of the issue by having at least three reasons that support your point of view and two reasons that support the opposing viewpoint and it is important that the paper has a strong thesis statement and strong support for the position. Counter argument for why they are not valid reasons. The topics that are selected for individual argument papers differ from those chosen for team papers because a decision is made within the group on which person will do what work as an individual, but other factors should be considered such as time and how well the assignment can be completed. All team members have a vested interest in understanding the appropriate response. Conclusion Today’s research and teaching is no longer performed independently or in seclusion. Research and teaching shows that both collaboration and argument work hand and hand and can benefit others and help to address problems when we work in collaboration with those whom we research with. Collaboration provides specific guidelines that help all diverse backgrounds come together with ideals and experiences for solutions and understanding and that argument assists in providing the best reasoning to distinguish between facts and opinions through detailed observation.

Childhood Essay Example for Free

Childhood Essay Though many are of the view that childhood is the happiest time of a persons life I do not think we can generalize it is so. Of cause childhood is a very enjoyable phase in a mans life which is free from many responsibilities and challenges of the adulthood. However I believe there are several conditions that need to be satisfied for a happy childhood. First and foremost, a child should have loving and caring parents who could provide physical, emotional, social and intellectual needs of their child. How many children have such parents today? There are thousands of children raised by foster homes or orphanages. Most of these children have never experienced the love of their mothers or fathers. In fact many a them even do not know who their parents are. These children are often deprived from many privileges and rights of a normal child. We could also see that the numbers of single parents are ever increasing due to various socio economic reasons. It is a known fact that single parents have to struggle hard to raise their children without the help of their partner and in most cases they fail to provide necessary requirements of their children, especially with respect to emotional factors. The security of the child is another important factor that decides whether the childhood is a happy one or not. In my country there was a civil war which spanned for thirty years and fortunately became to an end in the last year. The children who were born during these thirty years of war were raised under its dark shadows. In most families, the fathers had to join the army to fight against the terrorists. Many did not return home leaving endless problems for their families. There were frequent bomb blasts directed on civilians by the terrorists and in many instances children were victims. Also the children in the areas under terrorist control were abducted by the terrorists to strengthen their carders. These children were completely deprived from all their rights as children. They were neither allowed to be with their loved ones nor to attend school. Instead they were given a gun and trained to fire at the enemy. They were taught to hate not to love. How can we say that the childhood is the happiest time for such children?

The market allocates resources

The market allocates resources Introduction The market allocates resources efficiently by the price system. The invisible hand of Adam Smith is a system of prices, which will promote the producers and consumers making their own decision. Consumers make purchase decisions on the basis of utility maximization while producers make marketing decisions according to the principle of profit maximization. Based on the changes in prices, the markets guide resources toward the most efficient aspects of allocation between supply and demand. Chandler (1977) presented that the enterprises internal administration and coordination as the visible hand was replacing the visible hand of market mechanisms. With the rise of modern business enterprise and its managers, the large modern enterprise was gradually replaced the small traditional family firm and was taking over the coordination function of economy activities and resource allocations, as well as its management team were becoming the most influential group of economic decision makers. Actually, the visible hand is not a denial of the visible hand. The effect of both invisible hand and visible hand is conditional. Therefore, the visible hand was not completely replacing the visible hand; it was a kind of supplement and development of the invisible hand from the perspective of administrative coordination. How effective the market allocates resources For market, the price system is the coordinating device that takes care of allocation. Price, which makes balance between the consumers demands and the producers supply, is achieved through interaction in the market. The process of market interaction is what we call the invisible hand. Demand and supply affect the market interaction. On one hand, consumers demand for a commodity depends on its price to a large extent. The total demand will go up if the price goes down. This is the rule of demand. On the other hand, the total supply of goods is also determined by its price. The total supply will go up if the price goes up. This is the law of supply. Figure 1 illustrates that when a commodity oversupply and the price will drop, on the contrary, it will stimulate consumption, so that increase the demand. Besides, it will inhibit the production, hence reduce the supply. Market equilibrium occurs when the supply curve and demand curve meet. The meeting point of supply and demand needs to be achieved through price adjustments. At this time, resources will be allocated in a variety of purposes through price. The market will out of equilibrium no matter supply excess demand or demand overrun supply. The price will then be adjusted until equilibrium comes back. However, the invisible hand is not a panacea. In real life, the market has its limitation in allocating resources. The invisible hand of market can be effectively only in the perfectly competitive market. Public goods, externality, monopoly, market control lag, as well as the unbalanced information may lead to the disorder and chaos of the market economy. For example, according to statistics from Sina Finance, there were 80 big department stores in 2005 in Beijing. A Beijing persons average purchasing power was one- third of a persons buying power in Tokyo, while the number of large shopping malls was 8 times greater than it in Tokyo. This Phenomenon made a general decline in department stores economic benefits, thus malls closed down one after another. It shows that market has a certain degree of blindness and the market mechanism does not always achieve their ideal state. The management was affecting the economy as a Visible Hand Chandler posed the Visible hand of management, which was playing an ever-increasing key role in the allocation of resources. Today, the companies are not the small workshops anymore in the time of Adam Smith. Modern business enterprises were replacing small traditional enterprises. Some of them can be as rich as a country, which have great powers to directly affect national economy and even politics; moreover, they may make sense to the relationships between countries as well. The companys management was playing a significant impact on the allocation of resources. Chandler indicates that before the rise of the modern enterprise, the small personally owned and managed firm was a single-unite firm, which charges a single economic function and operating a single product line in one location. Thus the activities of these small traditional enterprises were coordinated and controlled by market and price system. In contrast, most of the modern business enterprise is multi-unit enterprise, which has its own administrative office, handles various types of products and services and operates diverse types of economic activities in different areas. Therefore the activity of these unites and transactions between them were internalized. They were coordinated and controlled by salaried managers rather than market mechanisms. As some propositions which Chandler mentioned in The Visible Hand (1977), can provide that the visible hand of management coordination was replacing the invisible hand of market mechanisms. Fist of all, small traditional business will replaced by modern multiunit business when administrative coordination allowed lower costs, greater productivity, and higher profits than coordination by market mechanisms. Modern enterprises interiorized the transactions, which transacted between some business units before. This internalization may reduce transaction costs and information costs, improve productivity, provide a more stable cash flow and thus reduce costs to improved profits. Secondly, only by forming a formal managerial hierarchy can the advantages of the internal activities of many business units be created. In modern business enterprises, middle managers control and coordinate the production and distribution in the company. Meanwhile, top managers are not only evaluate and coordinate with the intermediate managers, but also replaced the market for future production and distribution of resource allocation. Thirdly, the management system promotes the companys specialization and sustainable development. The majority of the traditional enterprises are partnerships and family firms, which were always short-lived. In contrast, management hierarchy allows the functions of company be maintained even the staff turnover and makes the salaried managers becoming more professional through various formal trainings. The managerial authority and ownership of enterprise can be divided when the business scale and the scope of operational diversity of business developed to a certain level, meanwhile the manager become more and more professional From the viewpoint of Chandler, to manage and coordinate this visible hands, compared to the invisible hands, could not only bring huge productivity and profits, but also enhance the competitiveness of capital. Thus, it could largely promote the productivity and consumption which caused by the revolution of organization management. That is what called the revolution of business enterprise management It cannot be denied that the visible hand has become a more and more crucial role in the contemporary economy, but there are still some defects in the view of Chandlers visible hand. First of all, Chandlers over-praise of the executive of corporation is just partly making sense to some extent. Managers may hide various levels of opportunism and potential trickery, such as the Enron scandal, as well as high-paying CEO scandal. Secondly, Chandlers understanding of large enterprise is not entirely accurate. Enterprises are expanding for large enterprises, because there is some kind of asset specificity. Enterprises expanding the scale do not mean that it is capable enough to build up its strength. Take the American slaughter Gustavus in 19th century as an example, he run a train transport business and freezer factory because it was the best way that he could control the quality and efficiency of meat-packing. He worried about that he would be plot in secret by his competitor if buying t ransport services and freezers from others. It is obviously that internal management of large enterprise would not substitute the regulatory action of market, the visible hand would play a role only in the case of management mechanism can produce greater productivity than the market mechanism and internal coordination costs are cheaper than the market transaction costs. To sum up, the market allocates resources efficiently by making equilibrium between demand and supply through the price system, while the visible hand coordinates and allocates resources by management. Every sword has its two sides. Both the invisible hand and the visible hand have their strength and weakness. The visible hand can not totally replace the visible hand, while the visible hand is the supplement and development of the invisible hand from the aspect of management coordination. They supplement each other to ensure the allocation of resource processed efficiently. References: Alfred D., Jr. Chandler (1977) The Visible Hand The Managerial Revolution in American Business Massachusetts and London: Belknap Press of Harvard University Press. P.1-4, P6-9 Eitan Goldman Gary Gorton (2000 ) The Visible Hand, The Invisible Hand And Efficiency. National Bureau of Economic Research. JEL NO.D21, G30 Economypedia [online]. [Accessed 1th December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web : Economypedia [online]. [Accessed 1th December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web : Jintang Wang Wenfan Zhong (1995) Modern American large enterprise and American society. Wuhan: Wuhan University Press. P3-5 Wikipedia [online]. [Accessed 1th December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web : Wikipedia [online]. [Accessed 1th December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web : Sean, Douma Hein, Schreuder (2008) Economic Approaches to Organizations Essex: Pearson Education. P.3-5, P9-10, P12-19, P28-38, P42-44, P46-51, P56-60 Sina [online]. [Accessed 1th December 2009]. Available from World Wide Web :

The American Dream in Sinclair Lewis Babbit :: Sinclair Lewis, Babbit

"Do as most do, and men will speak well of thee." [Thomas Fuller (1654-1734):Gnomologia] Men have a dream to improve their lives and better their social status but each man does not realize that he pursues this dream in hopes of pleasing others and not for his own well being. Fuller's quotation demonstrates that people find success and social mobility if they act and do what others want them to do. The American dream of success and happiness can not be reached independently because people need to feel accepted to achieve satisfaction. Each man strives to improve his place in the community oblivious to the hypocrisy around him. Everyone works to impress others rather than pleasing himself. Paralleling Fullers quotation, Sinclair Lewis' Babbit is a satirical portrayal of a man in search of himself enveloped by a society of hypocrisy . George F. Babbit, a middle class man, struggles to find social mobility and beatitude. Babbit overlooks the essential items of life and concentrates his attention towards material goals and impressing the upper class. Due to the loss of his best friend, Babbit realizes his life has no meaning and rebels against society's conformity destroying his reputation. Lacking the courage to be independent, Babbit's dream of true ecstasy crumbles when he succumbs to hypocritical lifestyle realizing that he needs conformity. Strongly influenced by a sanctimonious society, Babbit, a man in search for himself, realizes that he needs conformity to live. Babbit dreams of improving his status in the community, not realizing that hypocrisy is influencing every decision or action he makes. Babbit concentrates his time and energies towards activities and events that impress the upper class. His life revolves around material items and goals. Mr. and Mrs. Babbit host a dinner party, only inviting the utmost respectable couples. They plan a "highbrow affair†¦with evening clothes required" in hopes of impressing their prosperous guests. The evening is filled with meaningless conversation and the men tell crude and unsophisticated jokes. Everyone seems to be having a wonderful time even though there is no real meaning in the evening. Shortly afterwards Babbits "name and face" become noticed throughout the city. In another attempt to impress the upper class, Babbit delivers a stirring speech and suddenly finds that he has become one of the most "popular and well-known figures" at the convention. Babbit's dream of improving his position is coming true, although Babbit is oblivious to society's hypocrisy. From a solid citizen, Babbit becomes an important citizen and volunteers his services as an orator for a political campaign.

Essay --

Mara Salvatrucha Mara Salvatrucha, otherwise known as â€Å"MS-13,† is quite possibly one of the most well known and most notorious street gangs in the world. Beginning in the poor immigrant streets of Los Angeles in the 1980’s, the gang has spread like wild fire across not only the United States, but across the world, from Alaska to Spain (Tkach & Parker, 2006). Originating in Los Angeles, California, MS-13 was founded by refugees from El Salvador. â€Å"Mara† is a Central American term for gang; â€Å"salva† refers to El Salvador, â€Å"trucha,† meaning â€Å"trout† in English, for something that is clever, or sharp. MS-13 is also known as the â€Å"Salvadoran Army Ants.† After MS-13 spread from their birthplace in Los Angeles across countries, their activities helped make the infamous Northern Triangle: Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, as the most violent place in the world that is not at war (Dudley, 2013). Mara Salvatrucha has been named one of the world’s most dangerous gangs due to their origins, growing population of the gang, the brutality of their crimes, the signs and famous tattoos Mara Salvatrucha is known for, the prison life hiding the leaders, and the evolution into organized crime. Starting with civil wars of El Salvador, Guatemala, and Nicaragua, refugees traveled northbound to Los Angeles. In 2012, the United States Treasury Department named MS-13 as a transnational criminal organization. The Treasury Department gave insight on details about how truly powerful MS-13 is, including that the gang is involved with â€Å"drug trafficking, kidnapping, human smuggling, sex trafficking, murder, assassinations, racketeering, blackmail, extortion, and immigration offenses† (Dudley, 2013). Mara Salvatrucha has been placed with the Zetas from Mexico, ... ... from Mexico, Italy’s Camorra, and the Japanese Yakuza, confirming that Mara Salvatrucha is one of the most dangerous gangs. When a member is sentenced to prison, it is beneficial for the member because they learn criminal and gang knowledge by the veterans of MS-13 that reside in prison. Learning the graffiti, the hand signals and stacking, the tattoos and their meanings, obtaining information from different cliques can all be obtained due to members of MS-13 going to prison. While America sits and continuously deports MS-13 gang members away from the States, they are spreading the terror to other countries. Now, in El Salvador, this country is seeing more violence now due to the gang violence than they did when they were going through civil war. Ironically, the civil war is what drove refugees up to Los Angeles and what became the birth place of Mara Salvatrucha.

Where Are The Americans?

In spite of the fact that the American Government Led NATO against Serbia and that the American military is here, and their largest military base outside the United States is in Kosova, Kosovars are still asking: â€Å"Where Are The Americans? † Of course, a more complete elaboration on the basic question is: â€Å"Where Are The Americans? Why aren't Americans supporting our full Independence? Why hasn't their government recognized the full Independence of Kosova? Why aren't the big American corporations coming to Kosova? Why do they let the EU run everything in Kosova? Why isn't an American the Special Representative to the Secretary-General of the UN in Kosova? They went against European opposition and convinced NATO to go to war against Serbia and liberate us from oppression, but where are the Americans now? † Certainly the Americans are here, but the answer to many of the questions rests with the Kosova people, and the politics of Europe. Kosova is in Europe, and it is only natural that the European Community has the central concern and input regarding the status of Kosova. Under the current circumstances, any proclamations by the United States would be viewed as interfering with the European Union, and this would be diplomatically improper. Currently, the official communications regarding the situation in Kosova, and the issue of â€Å"final status† is limited to UNMIK and the European Union, as these are the entities that have UN delegated responsibilities regarding Kosova. The Americans are stronger in their influence within KFOR, which is separate from UNMIK Administration. However, when Kosovars clearly declare their Independence from Serbia, and demand that the UN fulfill its obligations in accordance with 1244(1999) for Kosova to have: â€Å".. provisional democratic self-governing institutions to ensure conditions for a peaceful and normal life for all inhabitants of Kosovo. † Then, and only then, can the United States and other nations respond to a direct request by Kosovars for support in the establishment of an independent democratic process within Kosova! The Americans and others would then be able to question the EU more directly, as to why the European Union is against the full Independence of Kosova, when the history of the Serbians has been one of repeated aggressions, and an absence of any remorse. It is a logical question to ask, why after so many conflicts and so many losses by the Serbs, does the European Union continue to appease Serbia, rather than imposing harsh consequences? We must learn the process of politics and diplomacy. We have been great leaders and warriors, but we must not forget that we have never had a leader in peace. We are physically and morally strong, we are intelligent but we are not experienced in politics and diplomacy. However, we cannot let this situation continue, and we must now use any and all means to become as effective in Politics and Diplomacy as we have been in war. Kosova's political leaders have been active, but we must accept the reality of Kosovar limitations and ensure that all leaders quickly become truly adept in politics and diplomacy. Another response to â€Å"Where Are The Americans† is that the American people are at home in the United States, working, playing, studying, watching Television, listening to the radio, reading newspapers; and all of these things are being done in English. It is true that there are a few thousand Americans who speak Albanian, but how many are in positions of authority and how many are actually doing anything effective to bring the â€Å"message† the â€Å"truth† about Kosova to the American people? How can the average American care about Kosova, if they know nothing about Kosova? Americans are paying close attention to world events, such as the terror threats and the issue with Iraq, and they are paying attention because they are being communicated to in English. Why should American journalists pay attention to Kosova when anything of importance has to be translated from Albanian to English by them? We speak out, and demonstrate, but nothing is said or written in English. If we want to get Americans interested in Kosova, we must speak and publish in the English language in addition to Albanian. Every key speech given; every key event; every meeting attended must be also presented in English. Our daily newspapers should have at least one page in English presenting all the headlines and a brief about the story, and our television news and key presentations must also be done in English. If we want people to listen to us, then we better speak their language! Our periodicals should contain English features, and every major press release by any organization of influence should be prepared in good English. This last statement is important, for if we present English copy that is poorly done, we will look uneducated in the eyes of those reading the material. In the few instances when our business and/or government organizations have provided English versions, they appear to the reader as having been done by a child just learning to speak and write in English. We must utilize the skills of professional translators in any and all areas that affect our future, especially if we wish to reach and involve the American people. We certainly do not provide a good image if we cannot express crucial issues in good English to the world. In business and politics, it is the English language that predominates, and we better catch up fast! Just about every adult Kosovar knows that the European Union is â€Å"concerned† about the unification of ethnic Albanians; the development of a Kosovar military; and the potential for a significant American business, monetary and political influence in the Balkans. But as long as We Kosovars remain silent in English, and the citizens of America remain ignorant of the truth, the EU has nothing to worry about. In the eyes and minds of Americans, it appears that â€Å"everything is OK† in Kosova, and they believe that if everything is going well, why should Americans continue to support the American Military being in Kosova? Americans believe: If â€Å"everything is OK,† let Europe bear the costs of taking care of Kosova and we can move our troops to where they are needed! American politicians respond to the will of the American people, and Kosova politicians and the Kosovar people need to recognize this fact and reach out to the Heart of the United States, the American people! We must have the courage to make strong and timely Diplomatic moves, such as the publicly restating our Independence, and request direct assistance from particular nations in order to counter the current negative intent and actions of the European Union and Serbia to keep us within and under Serbian Dominance. We Kosovars need to â€Å"wake up, and stand up† and speak out, in a loud, firm, clear and unified English Speaking voice, against the effective Serbian Propaganda, The Manipulation of The Hague, and the Appeasement efforts of the European Union. They are making their propaganda in English, and it must be countered in English!

The Folly of Rewarding a While Hoping for B

The Folly Of rewarding A, While Hoping for B Case Study Overview: In this case analysis we shall be examining the unintended contradictory results that reward systems bring about and recommendations in solving the issues highlighted Problem Statement: Many Problems in Organizations are created because of Faulty Incentives and Flawed reward systems that are setup to accomplish one thing but actually does the opposite. â€Å"While Mangers complain about lack of motivation in their workers, they might as well consider the possibility that the reward systems they’ve installed are paying off for the opposite†.Directly linked to these Faulty Incentive and Flawed Systems are key issues with 1) Employee Motivation, 2) Reward Systems, 3) Expectation/Misaligned Perception and 4) Biasness in Decision making that are deeply rooted as a causative agent in the Flawed system Hypothesis 1)Misaligned Perception/Expectation: Process Perspective: A look at Equity theory and Expectancy The ory in understanding the expected outcome perceived by employee as related to behavioral attitude towards rewards systems )Employee Motivation which is dependent on the effectiveness of its reward system: As pointed out by MASLOW HIERACHY OF NEEDS and HERZBERG’S TWO-FACTOR theory of Motivation highlight the effect of rewards both tangible and intangible on behavior 3) Weak or Poor decision Making: As shown by biasness of the community in electing Public service official, even in the face of the right option for endorsement/election 4) Poor performance and attitudes In Most Companies is caused by its reward systems, not the workforce.Analysis: As Pointed out by Expectancy theory that People make choices about behavior based on their expectation of what is likely to happen in terms of effort leading to performance and performance leading to desired reward. On the other hand Equity Theory Points out that those Perceptions about reward systems matter. From Equity Theory, if the R atio of someone’s outcome/input is equal to someone else’s ratio, equity exists.But if not, inequity exists and the theory suggests that People are motivated to reduce their Contribution in some way According to Equity theory, outcomes from a Job include pay, recognition, promotions, social relationships and intrinsic rewards. To get these rewards, the individual makes inputs to the job such as time, effort, experience e. t. c and compares it to someone else’s ratio of contribution. Thus the Individual behavior is affected by his or her Perception than the actual reality.In Sports, An underpaid Basketballer will be discouraged in developing teamwork skill. in order to make up for any inadequacies, Expecting that Scoring will Increase his or her earnings at the detriment of the team success. Similarly, if this player perceives that future rewards might be compromised; such player will reduce his or her commitment in response to his feeling of inequity towards the Team success. Thus it is discovered that people take into account Equity and expectation about future rewards in their choice of behavior.Taking a look further points out that Many rewards systems discourage desired behaviors’ while rewarding the very action that causes problems. Managers obviously design reward systems to motivate people to behave in certain ways, yet reward systems do not always produce the expected results. For example: In World War II troops were committed for the duration unless killed or invalided. They had a strong motivation to hasten the end of the war. Allied troops in the Vietnam War had a tour of a year or less. Their self interest was not tied to the end of the war.While their governments wanted them to focus on winning the war, their rewards were linked to looking after themselves. Not to their opponents. They were there for the duration. Evidence of a Reward System which encourages Contrary behavior can also be traced to the Health Industry . Looking at a health System where Patients bear little or no cost, we shouldn’t be surprised when doctors over test and over treat illness, and nothing is done to curtail this action, because the Patients have no incentive to resist the doctors’ actions.For doctors there may be some direct financial gain from over servicing. More important though is the possible costs and professional damage from malpractice suits. Over servicing diminishes the chance of facing such suits, or losing them if they occur. 3) Evidence of how a poor decision making Process has stereotyped and created a partiality that prevents objective consideration of an issue or situation is seen in Politics. This is a state of being BIAS Most of us want honest politicians who tell us clearly what they will do in office, then stick to that once elected.The actual reality is that politicians don’t behave that way, yet they get elected by our vote and we sustain this reward system. Also, we expect ou r public service to do the best it can with the community resources available to it. Yet there is usually great mismanagement in the public sector, Yet nobody act to resolve this issue or call the minister to order because it will harm the government’s standing and may cost it votes. This portrays a consequence of a community supported reward system unavoidably biased against good public sector management. )Financial incentives are designed to provide direct motivation – do this and you will get that while at the same time can spell doom. For Example giving a Psychiatrist a higher payment for condemning someone to be incapacitated at the expense of an individual being competent, the psychiatrist can be motivated by the higher pay. This Financial reward can therefore serve as a tangible form of motivation 4) Since some people expect that a certain level of effort will lead to certain levels and types of performance.In turn, people develop expectations that a given level and type of performance will be rewarded or punished Recommendations: Since Organization design are changing in response to a changing world, it is thus imperative to look at an alternative way of reward system, one that benefits all and eliminate the problem introduced by the traditional, conventional approach to reward system. While I Write that there is no one cap fits all solution, also interesting is how the recommendations from each case study analysis somehow tend to be applicable to other case study analysis treated earlier in the classAn effectively planned and administered reward system can improve motivation and performance. 1) Starting from the Issues Introduced by the Expectancy perspective and equity Perspective. An Effective manager can help his or her Organization to understand both equity issues and expectancies. This might involve framing the situation for someone, so that his or her perceptions more closely mirror the Managers perception of reality. Managers cons tantly need to clarify performance and be able to measure the attractiveness of rewards to employees. ) Effective Reward Systems should focus on positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is the most effective tool for encouraging desired behavior because it stimulates people to take actions because they want to because they get something of value (internally or externally) for doing it. An effectively designed and managed reward program can drive an organization's change process by positively reinforcing desired behaviors. The question to ask at this point is how to build an Effective reward system.By taking the five steps listed below, an effective reward system could be achieved Timely. The recognition/rewards should be provided frequently enough to make performers feel valued for their efforts. Achievable. The employee's or group's goals should be within the reach of the performers Meaningful. The achievements rewarded should provide an important return on investment to both the performer and the organization. Specific. A line of sight should be maintained between rewards and actions.Reliable. The program should operate according to its principles and purpose. 3) Performance Management. Organizations should concentrate on the process of managing performance and get away from thinking of the annual performance appraisal process as performance management. The process of performance management reflects how the work gets done and creates the environment in which people feel valued for their achievements. The performance management process includes four critical components:I) A Focus on what is important to change or be improved. II) A Measures to determine whether and how much progress is being achieved. III) Feedback so that performers will know whether and how much progress is being achieved. IV) Reinforcement so that everyone celebrates achievements as they are being unfolded. 4) Clear Communication. Managers should clarify what they mean by performance so that there won’t be misalignment and such that employees would understand how they can support what the manager is trying to accomplish. CONCLUSION:Since reward system cannot be eliminated from the organization system and people tend to do what they perceive will be rewarded, the solution presented here require a shift in every facet of reward system practice. Also worthy to note is that since reward system will keep evolving, some systems being implemented such as broad banding i. e increment in the pay steps within a specific Job title without a promotion and cafeteria-Style Benefits i. e. Ability to allow employees to select from a menu of benefits. Will need to be designed in such ways that makes them Nimble and Flexible.

Medias Effect on Violent Behavior in Society

Children's use of media is socialized mostly in the family (cf. Bryant, 1990). Television is an essential part of family life. Viewing occurs mainly with other family members, especially for young children. For instance, in one longitudinal study, more than 70% of the time that 3- to 7-year-old children spent watching general audience programming occurred with a parent (St. Peters, Fitch, Huston, Wright, ; Eakins, 1991). Moreover, television habits are formed early. The amount of television viewed is somewhat stable from age 3 onward, probably because it depends on family patterns that do not change readily (Huston, Wright, Rice, Kerkman, ; St. Peters, 1990). The process of learning is composite and multifaceted. The child should negotiate a series of vital tasks as he or she grows. The child must protect a sense of attachment to mother, father, and family (Bowlby, 1988). Then the child must move through the phases of separation and individuation (Mahler, Pine, ; Bergman, 1975). Here, the baby begins to move toward being a person (i.e., toward developing an internalized world of thought, emotion, and judgment that will facilitate the baby to be autonomous and self-regulating). From there, the child must start to deal with his or her issues of sexual identity, competition, power, and insertion in the group, elements that Freud (1933/ 1964) termed the Oedipal phase. The relationship between unconscious fantasy and the growth of the personality can be understood from the following: The growth of the personality occurs with the maturation of the perceptual apparatus, of memory as well as from the hoarded experience and learning from reality. This process of learning from reality is connected with the development and changes in unconscious fantasy. There is a constant struggle with the child's invincible fantasies and the encounter of realities, good and bad. (Segal, 1991, p. 26) It is also been asserted by experts that media is somewhat unethical for children. Television with its extreme reaching influence spreads transversely the globe. Its most significant part is that of reporting the news and sustaining communication linking people around the world. Television's most prominent, yet most stern feature is its shows for entertainment. Violence in entertainment is a main issue in the growth of violence in society, Violence is the exploit of one's powers to mete out mental or physical injury upon another, and exemplars of this would be rape or murder. Violence in entertainment attains the public through television, movies, plays, and novels. On July 26, 2000, officers of the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychological Association, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry issued a â€Å"Joint Statement on the Impact of Entertainment Violence on Children,† which was subsequently endorsed by both houses of the United States Congress. At this time, well over 1,000 studies—including reports from the Surgeon General's office, the National Institute of Mental Health, and numerous studies conducted by leading figures within our medical and public health organizations—our own members—point â€Å"Overwhelmingly to a causal connection between media violence and aggressive behavior in some children. The conclusion of the public health community, based on over thirty years of research, is that viewing entertainment violence can lead to increases in aggressive attitudes, values, and behavior, particularly in children†¦.† (Joint Statement on the Impact of Entertainment Violence on Children, Congressional Public Health Summit, July 26, 2000). â€Å"The effect of entertainment violence on children is complex and variable. Some children will be affected more than others. But while duration, intensity, and extent of the impact may vary, there are several measurable negative effects of children's exposure to violent entertainment†¦. We in no way mean to imply that entertainment violence is the sole, or even necessarily the most important factor contributing to youth aggression, anti-social attitudes, and violence†¦. Nor are we advocating restrictions on creative activity. The purpose of this document is descriptive, not prescriptive: we seek to lay out a clear picture of the pathological effects of entertainment violence. But we do hope that by articulating and releasing the consensus of the public health community, we may encourage greater public and parental awareness of the harms of violent entertainment, and encourage a more honest dialogue about what can be done to enhance the health and well-being of America's children† (Joint Statement on the Impact of Entertainment Violence on Children, Congressional Public Health Summit, July 26, 2000). New interactive digital media have become an integral part of children's lives. Nearly half (48%) of children six and under have used a computer (31% of 0-3 year-olds and 70% of 4-6 year-olds). Just under a third (30%) has played video games (14% of 0-3 year-olds and 50% of 4-6 year-olds). Even the youngest children — those under two — are widely exposed to electronic media. Forty-three percent of those under two watches TV every day and 26% have a TV in their bedroom (the American Academy of Pediatrics â€Å"urge parents to avoid television for children under 2 years old†). In any given day, two-thirds (68%) of children under two will use a screen media, for an average of just over two hours (2:05). (PR Newswire; 10/28/2003) Moreover, children at elementary level constantly struggle between fantasy and reality can be seen in the child's deep ambivalence concerning accepting the difference between â€Å"what's real† and â€Å"what's made up.† The child frequently attempts to obliterate differences, particularly those existing between the sexes and the generations. The child wants to be everything; he or she wants to be his or her own cause, he or she wants to be unlimited. The child wants to be a boy and a girl; to be his or her own father and mother; to know everything without learning and so forth. One can readily see that TV (as well as movies and video games) can be experienced as a means to gain the delusion of gratifying those wishes. However, teachers and parents distinguish that fantasy and daydreams persist to play an active, at times predominant, aspect of the child's development all through his or her formative years. In many cases, it is not until early adolescence that we see children able to assimilate their fantasies with rational thought in a way that make certain that external reality takes an increasing hold over perception, reasoning, and behavior. Although many more years are required before the child matures into a person who adeptly and constantly discriminates the internal from the external in a usually integrated fashion. It is this slow and accruing process of thought and fantasy being integrated with the resultant increase in the growth of the personality that seems to undergo the most inhibition when the consumption of media images becomes extreme or defensive. Children's animated cartoons show how outer, media-based images â€Å"mimic† the form of unconscious fantasy. The cartoon is a psychologically charged, exciting portrayal of fantastic (animated) characters. Its form is simple: An underdog (disguised child) comes into conflict with others (the top dog = parents or older children). There is danger, threat of destruction or death that is conquering in a magical and effortless fashion where pleasure and laughter are the outcome. The Coyote wants to eat the Roadrunner; Elmer Fudd wants to shoot Daffy Duck. Throughout complex and irrational activities, the â€Å"victim† triumphs over the â€Å"villain.† Furthermore, there are no real consequences attendant to the use of immense aggression and force. Magically, all characters reappear in the next cartoon and the cycle of conflict and decree, pleasing the child's wish to overcome limitation and smallness, is repeated once more. Further, teacher in classroom can develop the child's ability to be creative, to construct a â€Å"transitional space† (Winnicott, 1978) within which to form new blends of inner and outer, is inhibited to the degree that the child's mind is saturated with media-based images, characters, stories, and inspiration. The child must transform the â€Å"raw material† of both his or her inner and outer world in a pleasing synthesis in order to feel truly knowledgeable and in charge of his or her existence. The passivity by-product of TV viewing leads to a restraint of autonomous inspiration and produces what teachers are seeing more and more: anxious, irritable, angry, and demanding children who are unable to â€Å"play† and who demand to be â€Å"entertained† in a mode that approximates their experience of TV viewing. The use of drugs and alcohol utilize the same mechanisms as TV to achieve their psychological effects. As the substance user's body and mind are chemically altered, deep unconscious fantasies of security, charisma, power, or limitlessness are activated. Hence, Winn (1985) was accurate in describing TV as the â€Å"plug-in drug† as the â€Å"use† of TV to fend off depression, anxiety, and conflict is identical in its function to that of drugs and alcohol. The faction of â€Å"instant gratification† can be seen to plea to the universal wish to be the satisfied infant sucking at the breast: a mere cry, the feed and the bliss of satisfied sleep. The reality is unfortunately much more difficult, for what we see are increasing numbers of frustrated, angry, and uncooperative children, experiencing their wishes as demands, and their hopes as entitlements. However, learning is fundamentally based on more about how to communicate effectively with children on the subject of coping with the intimidating aspects of their environment. It is significant to recognize that some level of fear is suitable and indeed may be important to survival in certain situations. On the other hand, overburdening children with fears of horrendous disasters that are either unavoidable or highly unlikely to threaten them personally may add undue stress to the procedure of growing up. Because television is one of children's main sources of information about the world, we need to be capable to make reasoned decisions about what to expose our children to and when. We also require being able to explain crucial features of life to them in an age-appropriate way that preserves their youthful optimism while encouraging necessary and suitable precautions. Annotated Bibliography Bowlby J. (1988). A secure base: Clinical applications of attachment theory. London: Rutledge. This book offers the recent study in attachment theory. Bryant J. (Ed.). (1990). Television and the American family. Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. This book presents a current provides an updated analysis of the interaction between families and television Freud S. (1964). New introductory lectures on psychoanalysis (standard edition, 22). London: Hogarth Press. (Original work published in 1933) The book contains summarizing presentation of some of Freud's later theory, most questioning constructs and a peculiar treatment of female sexuality as well as super-ego formation. Huston A. C., Wright J. C., Rice M. L., Rerkman D., ; St. M. Peters ( 1990). â€Å"The development of television viewing patterns in early childhood: A longitudinal investigation†. Developmental Psychology, 26, 409-420. This book comprises current analysis of educational communications and technology. Joint Statement on the Impact of Entertainment Violence on Children, Congressional Public Health Summit, July 26, 2000. Also Available At: http://www.aap.org/advocacy/releases/jstmtevc.htm This article summarizes a clear relationship between violence in the media and violent behavior in children. Mahler M., Pine F., ; Bergman A. (1975). The psychological birth of the human infant. New York: Basic Books. The work is the revolutionary contribution to infant psychology. New Study Finds Children Age Zero to Six Spend as Much Time With TV, Computers and Video Games as Playing Outside; One in Four Children Under Two Have a TV in Their Bedroom. WASHINGTON, PR Newswire; 10/28/2003. This report presents the findings of a study which took place from September 2004 to July 2005. The article investigated children's use of popular culture, media as well as new technologies in the home in England. Segal H. (1991). Dream, phantasy and art. London: Tavistock/Routledge. This book is about Segal’s ideas on symbolism, aesthetics, dreams, as well as the examination of psychotic thinking also she brings them vibrantly alive in an innovative integration which links them afresh to the work of Freud, Klein, and Bion. St. M. Peters, Fitch M., Huston A. C., & Wright J. C., & Eakins D. (1991). â€Å"Television and families: What do young children watch with their parents?† Child Development, 62, 1409-1423. This word analyzed a number of questions regarding the amount of viewing as well as types of programs children and parents watch alone and together. Winn M. (1985). The plug-in drug: Television, children and the family. New York: Penguin Books. This book is on the subject of the effects of television on children and families.   

Martinez Company Essay

Introduction Martinez Company is introducing a new product that may be manufactured by using either one of two methods, capital intensive, or labor intensive method. For the capital intensive method, the manufacturing costs per unit are; direct material at $5.00, direct labor at $6.00, variable overhead costs at $3.00 and fixed manufacturing costs at $2,508,000 for the period. For the labor intensive method costs per unit are; direct materials at $5.50, direct labor at $8.00, variable overhead costs at $4.50 and fixed manufacturing costs at $1,538,000 for the period. The research department of Martinez Company recommended an introductory unit sales price of $30. The selling expenses are approximately $502, 000 annually in addition to $2 for each unit sold regardless of the manufacturing method used. The second part of the research is to determine how many units the company will have to sell annually for both methods to be equal. To determine this number the company will need to calculate the indifference point. The calculation is the total fixed cost of both methods is subtracted and then  divided by the contribution margin per unit for each method. Indifference point = (3,010,000-2,040,000)/(14-10) = 242,500. So the company would have to sell 242,500 units for both methods to be equally profitable. This is good information because based on the manufacturing cost of each production method the company will have to sell a specific number of units to maximize profitability. Based on this number the company will select each method in accordance with the projected number of units to be sold. Capital-Intensive Manufacturing vs. Labor-Intensive Manufacturing In the future, the Martinez Company will need to use either capital-intensive or labor intensive method for production. Capital intensive manufacturing method focuses on a high level of capital investment, while labor intensive focuses on a high level of labor investment. Capital intensive manufacturing method is mostly used on a large scale production with automated processes. Labor intensive method is mostly likely used on smaller scale production with personalized products. The capital manufacturing method is also based on whether the organization is producing a standardized product or an exclusive product. The labor intensive manufacturing method should be used when a substantial amount of customer interaction is needed. Capital intensive manufacturing method can be used when the work is too dangerous for employees. With labor intensive manufacturing method there are lower fixed costs and higher variable costs. With the capital intensive manufacturing method there are higher fixed costs and variable costs. In this case, the capital intensive method would be the preferred choice if the sales are expected to be higher than the indifference number of $242,500. Capital intensive manufacturing method limits competition by serving as a barrier to entry and as a capital intensive business, the Martinez Corporation can benefit from this. Barriers to entry are obstacles that prevent new companies to function in capital-intensive industries. Capital intensive manufacturing minimizes human error resulting in a more effective and efficient productivity. Another great advantage with capital intensive manufacturing method is the minimal labor impact.

Body soul destinction Essay

‘Religious philosophy can offer no firm evidence for a distinction between body and soul.’ Discuss. Humans appear to have both a body and a mind, the body which is related to physical movements and appearances. And the mind which relates to feelings and emotions, qualia. Many philosophers therefore make a distinction between the mind and body, the dualist view that a person is made of two separate substances. On the other hand, some philosophers take a monist/ materialist view that the mind and the body are the same substance. This is a contentious area of philosophy, and has created a debate known as â€Å"the mind, body problem†. Such philosophers as Plato take a dualist view and try to offer evidence to suggest a distinction between the body and soul. Plato saw the body and soul as two separate entities. The soul that most closely resembles the divine and immortal. While the body resembles the human and mortal, which is endlessly changing and can be broken down. Plato was not trying to suggest the soul was perfect as it joined the body which it is inhibited by, however, he explains that by taking care of the soul the person can develop knowledge. Plato used evidence such as the â€Å"world of the forms†. He suggested that by taking care of the soul and ignoring physical pleasures the soul can return to the word of the forms when the body dies. The evidence of Plato’s theory can be seen everyday. For the body to survive it must meet its basic needs such as food, reproduction and physical pleasure. On the other hand for the mind to be stimulated it has other needs that are met through deep thought and learning. However, there is a flaw to Plato’s theory, how can you have two completely different substances that are the same thing? Plato’s theory suggests the body and soul can work together to achieve a higher level of existence, but if the body and soul are completely different there is no evidence to suggest they would be compatible. Another dualist, Aquinas took a more religious view of dualism. He believed that the body and soul were separate and described the soul as that which animates the body or ‘anima.’ According to Aquinas, the soul operates independently of the body. Aquinas believed the only things that are divisible into parts decay. The soul is not divisible and therefore on this basis of Aquinas’ argument it is able to survive death. However, through the link with a particular human body the soul becomes an individual so even when the body dies the soul that departs has an immortal existence. Evidence for religious views on the soul come from the bible. Within the new testament, there are stories of Jesus’ resurrection that suggest dualism. Within one particular story Jesus’ disciples are walking to Emaus. Along the way they are joined by a man, it is only when they arrive at Emaus and offer the man a place to eat and stay that he reveals himself as Jesus. This supports the dualist view as firstly, it proves that the soul is immortal and lives on after death, and secondly that the soul is separate from the body as the man who claims to be Jesus appears to be unrecognisable implying he has a different physical appearance. For Christians this will act as firm evidence that there is a body soul distinction, however for those who are not Christian the evidence may not be so reliable. Cartesian duality formed by Rene Descartes, describes the mind and body as being separates and is based on the phrase † I think therefore I am.† Descartes explained that feelings and sensations cannot be located physically. He accepted that everything non physical is in the mind and therefore must be distinct from the body. The mind according to Descartes is non – spatial and is distinct from material and bodily substances. He suggested that everything has characteristics and that the mind and body’s characteristics are different therefore hey must be separate. For example a property of the mind may be consciousness, whereas the body has more aesthetic qualities such as height breadth etc. Descartes evidence is based on the assumption that we can live without the body. He concluded that the body has the job of performing physical activities however, it is the mind that contains our identity. For Descartes the mind is I, that we can live without the body as the mind makes us who we are. Descartes took the religious view that after our death the soul is able to continue and be with God. † A man’s soul is that to which the pure mental properties of a man belong.† Richard Swinburne developed a dualist view based on the soul being indestructible and indivisible. Swinburne suggested that is a logical possibility for a person to exist after the body dies, as the soul lives on. The soul according to Swinburne is linked with mental processes and activity and it’s independent from the body. Evidence for Swinburne’s theory comes from near death experiences. In many instances people have claimed to have had near death experiences whereby their hearts have stopped during surgery and yet they have reported detailed accounts of what happened during the time they were clinically dead. For some this is evidence for consciousness, however if the body and soul is one entity this would be impossible. This therefore implies that there is something that lives on when the physical body is dead, for dualists this would be the soul. On the other hand although the details of the experiences seem to be accurate there is no proof that the experiences may not be caused by another physical phenomena. On the other hand Dawkins, a biological materialist would disagree with the opinion that the soul and the body are separate substances. Dawkins bases his theory on evolution and genetics. He would reject any concept of an eternal soul and therefore rejects dualism. Some of Dawkins work includes the â€Å"selfish gene† and the â€Å"blind watchmaker† Within these he rejects any idea of the religious view of dualism and within the â€Å"selfish gene† he explains that humans are a lucky accident and that all life is opportunistic and humans are merely genetic mutations with the need to mindlessly replicate. Dawkins does not deny human dignity and accepts the complexity of human life to be able to contemplate the origins of human life. The evidence for Dawkins theory of biological materialism is based on DNA. Dawkins explains DNA as a code of instructions that is made up of millions of strands of genetic information. Genes according to Dawkins program who a person is, and it is DNA that singly creates what a person looks like as well as their personality. For Dawkins both the mind and body are controlled by the DNA and therefore he suggests that there is no need for a soul. Although Dawkins theory is based on empirical evidence and it has been proved that certain genes decide certain parts of a persons characteristics there is yet no proof to suggest that genes make up the whole of a someone’s personality and therefore it could be seen that there may be something else, this may be the soul. John Hick has formed a view of religious materialism. He stated that humans are one composite being, one substance. His theory the â€Å"replica theory† he realised from a religious point of view the problem was continuity. In life after death how can someone be the same person without their body. Therefore Hick suggests that there must be some kind of replica. This replica is the same person however, whilst they cannot exist at the same time. According to Hick at the same time that when a person dies a replica of them is created by God. This is a way of preserving personal identity after death. The evidence for religious materialism is based on the resurrection of Jesus. Some accounts during the new testament describe Jesus after the resurrection and was recognised by followers before ascension. From a religious view this is evidence for the replica theory as it appears that Jesus died and when he came back had the same physical appearance as well as the same personality. Identity theory puts forward a materialist view of the soul. Identity theory is against behaviourism and suggests that the mind and the brain are in the same place. In the brain, consciousness is generated as well as the other physical processes we link with the brain such as movement. Evidence for this is put foreward in â€Å"the philosophy files†. Within the book and analogy explains how if you were to look in the brain you would be able to locate an area that is stimulated and that thoughts must be generated in this area. We already know only 10% of the brains capacity is used consciously and therefore it is a logical assumption that our mind is located within the brain. An analogy for this is that a woman can be a mother, a daughter and a sister etc. The same person can have many functions, it is therefore the same for the brain which as well as having the functions we already recognise such as controlling physical activity, speaking and controlling bodily functions it ca n also control the mind. Overall, although religious philosophy offers an explanation for the body soul distinction it is based on little empirical evidence. For those who already follow the religion it may fit in with their beliefs however, for those who are atheist of follow another religion the evidence that it uses makes little logical sense. Such dualists views as Plato where the assumptions are based on everyday life may be more appropriate, however there is still little empirical evidence to prove the theory. On the other hand materialists put fore ward convincing arguments based on scientifically testable theories i.e. Dawkins. But neither arguments yet put enough evidence fore ward to either prove their views or disprove that of others. Therefore the statement Religious philosophy can offer no firm evidence for a distinction between body and soul may be considered as correct, however there is not yet enough evidence to suggest that religious views of dualism cannot be true.

Would implementing groupware in our organization be more trouble than Case Study

Would implementing groupware in our organization be more trouble than it would be worth - Case Study Example The complexity of data collection, reporting, and analysis can be averted by the effective implementation of Groupware. Although groupware is intended for individuals to access common data and to empower effective communication, there are certain troubles the implementation of groupware can cause. Groupware is supported by the modern computer network technology which includes email, electronic calendar, chat, electronic meeting systems, video conferencing, and web publishing (Nominal Group Technique). The initial challenge is associated with groupware designing because it is more complex than installing a single user system. Most of the organizations confront with problems related to a proper system design and acquisition. It is an area where entrepreneurs need to hire the assistance of some professionals and vendor experts. In addition, the groupware project manager should have up-to-date technical and professional knowledge because system development and implementation are the significant stages where specialized understanding is needed. Conflicts of interests and employee resistance usually occur when the new system is implemented in a conventional form of organization. For instance, as found in a case study, when two innovations were introduced simultaneously, peer review and groupware, individuals became skeptical of the systems (O’Connor 1999, p. 15). To deal with such situations, organization should make an assessment about the acceptability attitude of the managers, staff and other employees prior to the design and development of the project. Management should keep well designed strategies to educate members on the effective usage of the system for attaining common objectives. However, it is assumed that management will often confront with ‘issues of how to reward a given individual for team outcomes’ (O’Connor 1999, p. 16). Another challenge is