‘Harmonium’ and ‘Manhunt’ Essay

The speaker’s attitude towards his father in ‘Harmonium’ is honest and realistic. The speaker names the brand of his organ â€Å"Farrand Chapelette† and he names places such as ‘Marsden’ in Yorkshire possibly having a connection of where he and his father grew up. This makes the poem a lot more personnel and therefore the poet manages to gain sympathy from the reader. The use of honesty makes the poem a lot more sentimental whereas in ‘Manhunt’ the wife keeps their background quite discrete. Although the poem does explore the physical and mental effects of dealing with war injuries, it doesn’t include the wars in which he’s participated in and any other personnel information. The poem ‘Manhunt’ is a lot less specific than ‘Harmonium’, which makes it relevant to many other war victims. The husband in Manhunt is not open to his experiences of the past. The speaker in ‘Harmonium’ uses colloquial language to create a friendly, warm, conversational tone. In ‘Harmonium’ Simon Armitage uses language like â€Å"bundled off to the skip† to try and say that the Harmonium is broken. In the poem Manhunt the speaker uses a more compassionate tone, which makes the poem touching. This is created when she unravels the list of her husband’s injuries with each injury getting worse and more heart-breaking. Both of the poems use imagery to convey their feeling to their loved ones through images. In the poem ‘Harmonium’ the speaker’s father is portrayed as a broken ‘Harmonium’, which helps the reader visualize the physical and mental state of the child’s father. In the poem ‘Manhunt’ the husband is continuously referred to images reflecting his health. He is described as having a ‘fetus of metal beneath his chest’ giving the reader a visual image of the metal bullet buried beneath his skin. In the poem ‘Harmonium’ Simon Armitage uses parallelism to intensify the relationship between father and son. He does this by repeating ‘and he, being him†¦.and I, being me† this shows how the son will take the place of his father as time goes on. However in the poem ‘the Manhunt’ the speaker  links herself to her husband. Her husband is described as being the victim of a Manhunt and the poem explains how she is trying to regain her husband’s trust and confidence the idea that the husband is involved with this Manhunt is repeater throughout the poem. The wife is described as ‘widening her search’ to regain her husband; this links to the title ‘Manhunt’. In the poem ‘The Manhunt’ the speaker uses lots of sensational, loving verbs in the poem, reflecting the intimacy of husband and wife, and keen devotion from the wife hoping to heal her husband. The wife says that she is able to ‘climb the rungs of his broken ribs’, a closely observed detail of her hands exploring the altered body of her husband. The idea of the ladder is reflective of the effort involved in the wife’s gradual search for answers. This demonstrates the wife’s confidence when she speaks. However, in ‘Harmonium’ the speaker uses indefinite descriptions such as ‘shallow or sorry’ and ‘phrase or word’; this shows that the speaker is not very comfortable and confident about talking about his father, this suggests that he might be regretful or resentful of his past decisions. The writer feels inadequate. The poem ‘Harmonium’ has four stanzas of different lengths. The first stanza describes the harmonium ready to be throwed away. The next is a closer investigation of the instrument, with detailed descriptions of its parts. The third stanza considers the history of the instrument. The final stanza, which describes carrying the harmonium from the church, is concerned with the relationship between the speaker and his father. However in ‘The Manhunt’; the poem consists of a series of unrhymed couplets. This creates a sense of fragmentation, which matches the feelings of the soldier’s wife as she try’s to understand the man her husband has become. The poem describes the phases of a wife’s search for answers from her injured husband who has recently returned from a war zone. The poem ends when the search is closed. In conclusion the speaker’s attitudes in both poems are quite similar since they are both by Simon Armitage however the spea ker in ‘Harmonium’ takes a more honest and realistic approach with a colloquial tone than the discrete, unspecific, compassionate speaker in ‘The Manhunt’.

Intrinsic Motivation: Surefire Way to Win Over Downturn Essay

Though none opposes the fact that motivation is the real driving engine of every action, there is considerable differences among the theorists about its mechanism, especially when it comes to explore the possibility to bring out the best out in the employees of an organization, where one school of thought advocates for extrinsic motivation for instant solution and the other insists on capitalizing the long-term efficacy of intrinsic motivation. Under the present context of economic downturn, this issue is extremely important, as extrinsic motivation primarily involves money. Therefore, this paper explores the core elements of motivation and concepts of extrinsic and intrinsic rewards from relevant literature, before coming into its own conclusion. Core of Motivation The core of motivation contains three elements like Consciousness, Inverted Qualia and Absent Qualia. These three together create various mental states. Consciousness It has six major identifiable states like 1. State of awareness: When someone is aware of something (Rosenthal, 1986). 2. Qualitative states: Sensing something out of something like enjoying a meal or experiencing a pain. Such experiences are called â€Å"qualia†, and are regarded as â€Å"intrinsic, private, ineffable and nomadic features of experience, † (Dennet, 1990). 3. Phenomenal states: A state involving more than sensory qualia, covering spatial, temporal and conceptual organization of experiences about the world and the person’s inference about it. 4. What-it-is-like states: Associating a sense of experience with another. 5. Access consciousness: It’s like seeing a thing and ideating something and then deciding on something, where there may or may not be any relationship among the above-said three stages. 6. Narrative consciousness: This â€Å"stream of consciousness† contains a series of thoughts from the â€Å"perspective of an actual or merely virtual self† (Dennett, 1991). Inverted Qualia It refers to a personal package of intrinsic and intricate experiences, with which humans decipher various external signals and respond to them, where the nature of experience governs the nature of response. The difference in perception causes inverted qualia, as for example someone might like green tea and detest coffee for no unexplainable reasons. This trait has a strong connection with intrinsic motivation (Dennet, 1991) Absent Qualia The concept of absent qualia claims that functional duplicates of a creature would do the same. As for example, if Mr. X likes tea and dislikes coffee, then his absolute clone would also do the same, for which the clone would not need an intricate and intrinsic package of experiences (Dennet, 1991). This concept backs the idea of getting result through extrinsic reward – as for example, if Mr. X and Mr. Y do identical jobs under identical conditions, then if Mr. X feels satisfied with cash reward, Mr. Y would too follow the suit without a second thought! This study thus highlights two sets of hidden relationships, one, between inverted qualia and intrinsic motivation/rewards, and two, between absent qualia and extrinsic motivation/rewards. In any case, humans’ (apparently) involuntary association with rewards too has its routes in their perceptions, which maintain a master list of individual desires, and accordingly propel them to fulfill such desires. Put into an imaginary diagram, the mechanism of human mind can look somewhat like below: Mechanism of Motivation Motivating Tools From the organizational perspective, the ways and means to motivate the employees can be many. However, the common ones among them are, 1. Rewards 2. Retention 3. Morale 5. Job-enrichment 6. Reinforcement 1. Rewards System: Rewards or recognition system has a great bearing on the emotional plane of humans. † Every behavior comes out of ‘pain and gain’ principle†, says Khera (2004, p. 110). There can be many types of tangible gains like money, vacations or gifts, or they can be intangible, like recognition, appreciation, sense of achievement, growth, responsibility, sense of fulfillment, self-worth, etc. 2. Retention: It highly motivates the employees, as â€Å"Retention is critical to the long term health and success of the company† (Heathfield, 2008). 3. Morale: The elements like praise, love and faith can charge up anyone under any circumstance. 4. Job Enrichment: It relates to the in-house grooming of the employees to become an expert in the related field. 5. Reinforcement. By all means, it is a tool to control the employee behavior (Positive, 2000), which binds the company activities together. Other Factors Related to Motivation There are three other factors that can be instrumental to keep employees motivated, and they are: Job Satisfaction, Goal-setting and Performance appraisals. They are considered to be the self-boosters of the employees, and according to Murphy (2001), belief is a thought that causes the power of subconscious to be distributed into all phases of life. Motivation and Reward System Reward systems are created to fuel the employee cooperation, effort and overall satisfaction of all members of the company Cacioppe (1999). Other researchers like Hackman (1997) Shea and Guzzo (1987) too have endorsed this view, and suggested to align rewards with group activities. The basic parameter of the formulating a reward structure, however, is expected to apply the common logic like optimizing the ability of the workforce as a whole, though in practice it might go down to an individual, especially where the work patterns are not interdependent. This situation commands a quick review of the nature of intrinsic and extrinsic rewards. Intrinsic Rewards Deci (1975) says that intrinsic rewards evoke a sense of personal causation – i. e. , an inward mechanism serving as the guiding engine for the action, where its elements are usually intangible and working on the plane of one’s perception, where the journey is being enjoyed over the outcome. Extrinsic Rewards Extrinsic rewards are supposed to generate perceptions of external causation (Deci, 1975) by being mostly tangible in nature – a hike in salary or status, or material gains in other forms. However, researchers like Guzzo, (1979) defies any division in the reward system and considers it a single, usable tools to tweak the frequency of desired response of the employees towards a desired direction. Researchers like Hull (1943) and Skinner (1953) placed extrinsic reward as a direct link between stimulus and response, and their views include punishment as a stimulus too, besides subscribing to the power of stimulus. Reaction No matter how much Hull (1943) and Skinner (1953) wanted to establish extrinsic motivation as the best motivating tool to earn competitive advantage, extrinsic motivation carries a hidden cost besides the cost involved in its implementation. Researchers like Deci and Ryan (1985) used attribution theory and suggested that humans constantly reassess the reasons for their behaviors besides others. Before that, Lepper et al. (1973) had observed that reinforcement generates two effects for the management, like gaining control over activity or fastening the process; two, the backlash effect in absence of reinforcement. The example below would explain it better: A group or an individual gets a reward of x amount of money for a period y, where x+y=m, m being the increased rate of production. Before that, the situation was y=z where production was z. Now in the absence of reinforcement and with the influence of attribution theory, the situation would stand like y-x = n, where n < z. This clearly goes against the basic reason for motivating the employees, i. e. , to enhance the profit of the organization. â€Å"Engagement occurs when an employee connects emotionally with his work,† says Paul Glen (2007), and if one checks the mechanism of motivation, one gets convinced that extrinsic motivation cannot influence the employees to connect emotionally with their work, as it is guided by absent qualia, i. e. , a momentary and involuntary chase, where emotion has no role to play. On the other hand, the intrinsic motivation is guided by inverted qualia, i.  e. , conscious chase and that clearly takes along emotion in its journey and influence the human mind in no less than six ways. Conclusion The research and discussion above clearly shows that extrinsic motivation system can be a threat in disguise for the organizations especially under the present context of economic downturn, while intrinsic motivation can be the ideal solution under the same circumstance, where it can raise emotional attachment with the organization and inspire the employees to produce more for less. References Cacioppe, R. (1999). Using team-individual reward and recognition strategies to drive organizational success. Leadership and Organization Development Journal, 20(6), pp. 322-331. Deci, E. and Ryan, R. (1985) Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behaviour. New York: Plenum Press. Deci, E. L. (1975). Intrinsic motivation. New York: Plenum. Denett, D. C. (1990). Quining qualia†. In Mind and Cognition, W. Lycan (Ed. ), Oxford: Blackwell, 519-548. Dennett, D. C. (1991). Consciousness explained. Boston: Little, Brown and Company. Glen, P. (2007). You Can’t Outsource Retention. Computerworld, July 16, 2007. Guzzo, R. A. (1979). Types of rewards, cognitions, and work motivation. Academy of Management Review, 4(1), pp. 75-86. Hackman, J. R. (1997). Why teams don’t work. In R. S. Tindale, J. Edwards, & E. J. Posavac (Eds. ) Applications of theory and research on groups to social issues. New York: Plenum.

The Multi-dimensions of Art & Milk

The concept of art has been an ever changing forefront of movements, development, evolution and a pending example of how the human race has delved into different realms of expression and exploration into their surrounding environment.   There are varying theories as to the worth of art, pop art in particular and its legacy to the human race; or, all art in general may be examined through critical eyes and have the same question presented in such scrutiny.   The purpose of this paper will be to examine the worth of The Milkproject and how it aids in examining people and products in their everyday life.There has been much debate as to the purpose of; in Oscar Wilde’s famous quote he says, â€Å"All art is completely useless† and while this may be the case in fact, since art does not serve some rudimentary purpose in propelling the human race forward into any evolutionary or revolutionary states, art must be approached from a different angle.   The theorists Dick Hig gins states that,Pop Art?   How could it play a part in the art of the future?   It is bland.   It is pure.   It uses elements of common life without comment, and so, by accepting the misery of this life and its aridity   so mutely, it condones them.   Pop and op are both dead, however, because they confine themselves, through the media which they employ, to the older functions of art, of decorating and suggesting grandeur, whatever the detailed content of their artist’s suggestions (Higgins 49).Thus, with this definition of the death of art through the lack of evolution it is willing to play in progressing forward into a new age of media a viewer may rightly surmise that the endeavors of the Milkproject are far more revolutionary than any other artistic movement being designed in this century.   It is with the inclusion of technology and the approach of applying the common life with something integral to the world such as milk and how and where it travels that this project will have a lasting impression in the art world.It is through diversity of art and the inclusion of different medias into a conglomeration art project that the Milkproject is able to transcend the usual boundaries of art and to delve into something more important, more human.   The project used photographs, sound recordings and live models and life to portray the transportation of milk from a farm into the houses of the general populace.   The integration involved in this journey is what beckons Higgins to recollect the diversity of Duchamp in his theory and to state that it is only through this mixture and inclusion of media that art is able to evolve, and evolve it does with the Milkproject.The true genius of the Milkproject is that is it interactive; with the audience as well as the participants.   The beauty of the project is that is focuses on something common in everyone’s lives so that everyone has a basis for an interest in the project.   As this paper has previously quoted art seems useless:   from the dowdy baroque pieces to the overly large pop art media pieces, there seems to be no real connection between the lay person and art.With the Milkproject this foreignness is bypassed as milk is the main ingredient in the art, and the reactions of people to milk, its journey and process is all a part of the final project.   In Kaprow’s article â€Å"Happenings† in the New York Scene he describes how ‘Happenings’ is an interactive based art experience, â€Å"You come in as a spectator and maybe you discover you’re caught in it after all as you push things around like so much furniture† (Kaprow 84).   This same process of being involved in the Milkproject despite not being the artist of the muse, is what propels the fundamental interest of the viewer.The idea behind the Milkproject as an artistic expression is only defined as such by the intermingled use of photography and voice.   This is why the project is such an important piece; because in most art pieces, the movement is static, the flowers remain the same through time, but with the human voice and the interaction of the product with the audience, the viewer or participant is able to relate on a more humanistic level with the project and thus transform it from a Happening into a thing of real life consequence: from the farm and whatever happens with the farm (financially, weather-wise, etc) to the mouth of the consumer.   Thus, the Milkproject transcends Kaprow’s Happening as he defines it,Happenings are events that, put simply, happen.   Though the best of them have a decided impact—that is, we feel, ‘here is something important’—they appear to go nowhere and do not make any particular literary point.   In contrast to the arts of the past, they have no structured beginning, middle or end.   Their form is open-ended and fluid; nothing obvious is sought and therefo re nothing is won, except the certainty of a number of occurrences to which we are more than normally attentive.   They exist for a single performance, or only a few, and are gone forever as new ones take their place. (Kaprow 85).Thus, the Milkproject is not so clearly defined as art that has no ‘structured beginning, middle or end’ (Kaprow 85) but rather to the extent of the milk’s journey from teet to mouth of the consumer is found these three parts; excepting in the idea that the project itself is a continuation of the milk’s journey transform by the project into art.It is now clear that the Milkproject is a transformable art.   Thus, the art behind the project is not limited to the process of the milk traveling but extends to the reactions of the farmers and the consumer as is proven with the voice recorded tapes.   The audience in turn at the exhibition becomes part of this process as well, which makes the integrated media of the Milkproject evo lutionary in its concept.   This concept of mixed media and the extension of art into the audience is portrayed in Aarseth’s theory on literature,Where this new adaptation might prove to be a radical departure is in the way we shall use it to define textually independent of its traditional associates, the reader/receiver/audience and writer/sender/author.   This move, which might be seen as self-defense†¦A text is not what we may read out of it, nor is it identical with what someone once wrote into it.   It is something more, a potential that can be realized only partially and only through its script (Aarseth 59).One must merely substitute the word literature and text with art and this passage clearly defines the purpose and impact of the Milkproject.Another interesting dynamic to the Milkproject is its use of the narrative.   As was mentioned with Higgins, art does not transcend itself often; that is to say that art does not cross from a painting into a sculptur e, and that is why media is such an important tool for this new era of art.   Most art does not speak for itself, does not lend the viewer with a cemented impression or underlying theory to its own existence as was illustrated in Kabrow’s Happenings.   With the inclusion of a running narrative in the Milkproject, a new dimension of art is being presented and very well incorporated into the integrity of the project.The inclusion of a narrative is not the only aspect of the genius of the Milkproject but the way in which it is included is what makes the narrative a work of art.   The narrative is typically thought of as a story telling device through literature.   In the dynamic of the Milkproject the narrative becomes a palpable part of the exhibition in that it is presented not through written words but electronic devices and thus remaking the project a part of a long lasting tradition of oral story telling, something the native Americans of other cultures pass on stor ies from generation to generation (de Certeau 95).   It is with this oral tradition being included in the project that a sense of human identity and connectedness from the Netherlands to America and further can be appreciated, as Landow expresses of the narrative and technology,Electronic textuality brings with it many changes, but not all concern loss, as so many critics of culture seem to believe.   Lyotard, for instance, claims that the new information technologies produce effects much like the journalist’s rewriting†¦but the evidence of hypertext works thus far created, both instructional and literary, suggests that on the contrary electronic linking graphs idiosyncrasy and personal association in particularly liberating ways.He grounds his charge on the doubtful claim which hypertext linking would seem to contradict, that the â€Å"new technologies †¦submit to exact calculation every inscription on whatever support:   visual and sound images, speech, mus ical lines, and finally writing itself,† and he argues that â€Å"the noteworthy result of this is not, as Baudrillard thinks, the constitution of an immense network of simulacra† but rather the great â€Å"importance assumed by the concept of the bit, the unit of information† (Landow 32).The importance then of the inclusion of the narrative through a technological device then is proven to be a necessary part in the Milkproject not only in a traditional art sense but in a cultural sense as it propels the human story forward by the means of the human ingenuity:   through the bit, through oral tradition by way of a story that is significant to the human race, and its progeny:   a farmer’s milk into the mouths of the consumer, is something that will always be of importance because of its nutrition as well as this project’s ability to show that the world, the economy, cultures, are working in a globalizing fashion to sustain human life in all parts of the earth, thus art imitates nature (Guattari & Deleuze 2).The Milkproject extends the visual world and enters the verbal world so that the audience may better understand the significance of the work.   The emphasis of the verbal, or oral storytelling in this project is what makes the project all that much more human.   The implementation of the digital voice recordings along side the still motion shots taken from video footage is what humanizes the project and for the audience its what makes the project real, and strikes a cord of commonality, thus, not only is the audience member intrigued because of the element of milk, a product used by a large portion of the world’s population but also the voiced concerns of the farmers and consumers are juxtaposed with the audience reactions as de Certeau states ,We could moreover extend this problematic to the relations between the act of writing and the written text, and even transpose it to the relationships between the Ã¢â‚¬Ë œhand’ and the finished painting.   AT first isolated in the area of verbal communication, the speech act turns out to find only one of its applications there, and its linguistic modality is merely the first determination of a much more general distinction between the forms used in a system and the ways of using this system, that is, between two ‘different worlds,’ since the ‘same things’ are considered from two opposite formal viewpoints (de Certeau 98).Thus, the use of the narrative becomes a part of the exhibition in an intrinsic fashion.The focus of this paper has been on the inclusion of several styles of art in one artistic piece, the Milkproject.   Through the use of verbal narrative, mixed media, photographs, technology, and video the ‘artists’ of this project have been able to create a Happening which goes beyond the open-ended suggestion of Kabrow and into a story which develops through the journey of milk from udder to con sumer across continents.The use of GPS in this project was also a major player in extending the static components of art being non-transcendental (i.e. paintings can’t be sculptures and vice versa) and allows the project to be multi-dimensional and thus long lasting.   However, the stroke of genius in the Milkproject is the inclusion of various media in order to engage the audience in the reality of the milk’s journey.It is with this final statement of the project that the purpose of the project becomes apparent:   the audience’s interaction, and reaction to the project is a part of the project if not the main purpose.   Thus, the journey of the milk does not end with the consumer but carries on into the audience and this is what allows the Milkproject to not be a stagnant art form but an interactive exhibition whose genius rests with the reality that the journey’s participation hinges upon the viewer.   Thus, the journey of milk is found in its e nd with the art viewer.Work CitedAarseth, E. â€Å"Nonlinearity and Literary Theory.† Hyper/Text/Theory Landow,  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   George P. (Ed)   Baltimore & London: John Hopkins University Press, 1994  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   excerpts 51-86Burroughs, W. The Cut-Up Method of Brion Gysin. The New Media Reader Nick  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Monfort and Noah Wardrip-Fruin (Eds) Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press 2003 83 88.De Certeau, M.   Walking in the City.   The Practice of Everyday Life.   Berkley.   UniversityOf California Press.   1988.Deleuze, G. and Guattari, F. Rhizome. in A Thousand Plateaus Minneapolis and  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   London: Minnesota UP, 1987 excerpts 2-25;Higgins, Dick. Intermedia. Leonardo 34:1 49-54Kaprow, Allan. Happenings’ in the New York Scene.The New Media Reader Monfort,  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Nick & Wardrip-Fruin, Noah (Eds) Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press, 203 83-88Landow, G. P. What ’s A Critic to Do? Hypertext. George P. Landow (Ed) Baltimore:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   John Hopkins UP, 1994 32-46Marek, K.   Bizarre New World. (The World May Be) Fantastic, Biennale of Sydney  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Catalogue 2002 217-20.Plant, S. On the Matrix. Cybercultures Reader London & New York: Routledge, 2000   325-336

Guantanamo Bay Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Guantanamo Bay - Essay Example The US has faced frequent attacks for holding inmates without trial and for their alleged mistreatment." (Guantanamo Bay). The United Nations has also got involved in the issue now and they have demanded for the immediate closure of this camp. The same has been strongly opposed by the US government and they have put forward that the inmates are treated very humanely in these camps and hence denying all the allegations made against the US. The camp was originally established to keep the suspected terrorists of Afghanistan. "Pentagon officials insist the US is entitled them to hold "enemy combatants" - who do not enjoy the rights of prisoners of war or US citizens accused of crimes - without charges or trial for the duration of hostilities. (Guantanamo Bay). The United nations have proofs of torture in these camps and hence they demand an immediate action by the US. The UN claim that the torture in these camps have reaches another level, the inmates are exposed to extreme temperatures and are fed through nasal tubes, the inmates are also exposed to extreme conditions produced by light and sound. ... The US soldiers slam the heads of the prisoners against the cell; many more unimaginable things are done by the US soldiers' day in and day out. "The US says interrogations are yielding useful intelligence, including some from inmates who have been detained for up to two years." (Guantanamo Bay). "The current Cuban government considers the U.S. presence in Guantnamo to be illegal and the Cuban-American Treaty to have been procured by the threat of force in violation of international law" (Guantanamo Bay). There have been enough proofs found which show that the US soldiers have crossed all the limits and hence they must immediately pull out of Cuba, else the world is likely to witness another war. Major Issues A recent article published in The Guardian claims that a former Guantanamo inmate is a present Taliban leader heading many major operations. This is very bad news for the US and for all the other countries fighting terrorism. The inmates are being treated unfairly by the US army and the same motivates the inmates to escape the Bay and avenge the unfair treatment that they got from the US army. This is a huge problem which must be sorted out as soon as possible, many more members will join Taliban in order to teach the US a lesson in other words to give them a taste of their own medicine. The world is very familiar with the way the US soldiers treated Iraqi citizens. It is not very difficult to figure out why the inmates are turning against the US and joining dangerous groups. "The new Talibanmilitarycommander leading attacks against British troops in southernAfghanistanwas released fromGuantnamo Bay15 months ago after persuading a US military tribunal that he wanted to live a peacef ul life with his family, according to US

Risk management in Aviva Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Risk management in Aviva - Essay Example Introduction The current state of this society is an effect of outcome of the long term process. Today, the entire world economy is facing a tremendous growth in every aspect of life. It can be interpreted as an effect of globalisation which can be termed as broadening of the ideas, innovation, relationship and other types of activities among the different countries of the world. Many scholars believe that globalisation is the primary reason behind these. Moreover, they also consider that international trade and business and technological developments are the most importance and crucial effect of globalisation. In fact, the growth of international trade and business and technological advancement are two primary sources of globalisation. In case of international trade, the countries form different parts get opportunities to enter into a new arena of business. In this process, the international traders come into the contact of new experiences like cross cultural diversities, better opp ortunities, and different market exposures etc. Due to effect of globalisation, the nature of trade and business has changed significantly as its importance for inter-dependency has been urged for the development of society. The term, international trade denotes to the commercial transaction between or/among countries that involves transfer of product, wealth, money, services, technology, resources etc. Due to emergence of international trade and business, the world economies have experienced a missive growth. However, with this rapid development, the multinational companies are also being exposed to multiple types of risks. Therefore, in effect, the structure and nature of business and its strategies have been changed to cope up with these risks making the entire process complex (Daniels et al, 2010, p.7). This paper will attempt to analyse the implications of multiple types of risks faced by a multinational organisations. In order to meet this objective, the primary focus of this paper will be on Aviva, a global insurance company. As this company is present in many world economies, it is exposed to a number or risks like political risks, financial risks like interest fluctuations, foreign currency fluctuations, market risks etc. This paper will also include appropriate strategies for diversifying such risks in respect of Aviva’s global insurance business. 2. Brief Description about the Company: Aviva Aviva is one of the most popular global insurance companies in the global financial service market. It is basically an UK-based company and the sixth largest insurance company in the world and the biggest in the UK market (Aviva-a, 2011). The major market for Aviva includes the broad regions like Europe, North America and Asia Pacific market covering more the 28 countries. For its international business management, the company primarily focuses on the three core strategies. Firstly, the company aims to heighten and enhance its focus on geographical segmen ted market. Secondly, it is tries to increase its consumer’s value by offering the best combination of general and life insurance. Thirdly, Aviva is also trying to strengthen its core competencies that have enabled it to be one of the market leaders in global context. The company has gained a high expertise in technical excellence, effective operational, financial discipline and marketing related activities like promotional, distribution etc (Aviva-b, 2011). The company has acquired a large base of consumers in the global market and it service nearly 53.4 million of consumer by offering value-created product with its 45000 employees worldwide. The primary products of Aviva mainly include the life

Rare Genetic Disease Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Rare Genetic Disease - Essay Example The significance of this article lies in its assertion to establish a link between molecular biology and medical outcome. This claim is partially validated by the result of the research however, since the article is limited only on how the molecular make-up of an individual (represented by a laboratory model, in the research) is contaminated by progerin. It would have been more credible had the writer included researches done in clinical setting as well. At this point it is worth mentioning that such article is easily accessible by the general public. Hence, fundamentals such as 1) history, 2) special features of children that have been affected by progeria, 3) diagnosis 4) how progeria affects aging, and 5) drug/s or medication that might have been tested to cure or retard the effect of progeria should have been briefly discussed.. Furthermore, A better understanding of the causes of this syndrome (Progeria) could lead to better insights into the mechanisms of both development and a ging. Furthermore, the article emphasized that the cause of HGPS was identified in 2003,2 but failed to mention that progeria syndrome took its root as early as 1886 when Dr. Jonathan Hutchinson first described the disease.3 Certainly there are more studies available that might have served as a foundation to this article. One of those considered an authority in the study of HGPS is the Progeria Research Foundation (PRF). Following are some of the results from studies conducted by PRF. About one in four to eight million newborns (both sexes) have been affected by Progeria. Children around the globe including Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Canada, China, Cuba, England, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, Poland, Puerto Rico, South Africa, South America, South Korea, Switzerland, Turkey, the US, Venezuela, Vietnam and Yugoslavia have been affected by the disease. Signs of progeria-affected newborns include growth failure, loss of body fat and hair, aged-looking skin, stiffness of joints, hip dislocation, generalized atherosclerosis, cardiovascular (heart) disease and stroke. The children have a remarkably similar appearance, despite differing ethnic backgrounds. Children with Progeria die of atherosclerosis (heart disease) at an average age of thirteen years (with a range of about 8 - 21 years). They suffer from the same strokes and heart attacks that affect millions of aging people throughout the world. But heart disease in progeria is fast, and they can get strokes as early as (four) years old.4 These and other studies aimed at discovering the cure and effective treatment for Progeria and its aging related disorders should have been cited in this article to clarify and support its contention. References: 1 Rare genetic disease (03 March2008). E-Lab. Accessed on 02 April 2008 from http://www.scientistlive.com/lab//Biotechnology/2008/03/03/19907/Rare_genetic_disease 2 Ibid. 3 Gordon, Leslie B (Summer 2007). Progeria: Growing Old Too Fast. Your World -- A Biotechnology Magazine, 16 (2), 3-5. Retrieved 02 April 2008 from 4 Progeriaresearch.Org, c 2006. Progeria 101 Fact.The Progeria Resear

Employers Duty of Care Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Employers Duty of Care - Essay Example From this study it is clear that Jake’s actions are actually within his scope of employment. According to Damewood, the duties and responsibilities of an auto shop service manager is â€Å"normally focused on satisfying the customers through correctly determining the problems with their vehicles and repairing them in a timely and cost-effective manner†. Although Herman identified that he should just focus on providing the free change oil service, the extra service provided by Jake ensures that the customers would be satisfied with his work. Further, any additional costs needed from checking the basics: the brakes, tires and transmission would be revenue for the shop. Jake could likewise just focus on the free change oil service, as advertised and advised by Herman. According to the paper Jake could seek the car owners’ permission to provide the basic checking services for extra charge that would provide revenue for the shop and would not necessarily cause unneces sary work slowdown for those car owners who opted not to avail of these extra services. In so doing, Jake would still be complying with the duties expected from his scope of employment and still adhere to the priorities set by Herman, his manager. As employer, Herman is responsible for Jake’s injury primarily since the injury was sustained while doing the responsibilities expected of him in the service department. According to U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration, â€Å"employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace†. The injuries sustained by Jake form part of OSHA’s regulations that cover autobody repair and refinishing where injuries that were identified include â€Å"being struck by an object, struck against an object, and caught in an object,

Digital Journalism Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Digital Journalism - Assignment Example Many years ago before the development of radios, televisions, newspapers or cellphones, people used the traditional methods of communication. These methods were nevertheless inefficient and many people didn’t receive the information. Years on, technology was advanced and newspapers and the use of telegrams were established. After that, technology continued to advance until the present day, where technology has grown and advanced further making it possible for many people get information anywhere and everywhere (Pavlik, 2008). Technology can therefore be referred to as a driver that has changed journalism for the past two decades and continues to transform it. The development of journalism attempts to deal with dynamic growth of developing and developed nations. Digital technology has designed journalism in many different ways. Many countries have developed new forms of media technologies like radio and televisions, which has been possible because of development of cables television, as well as high definition and digital television (Pavlik, 2008). Another significant development was the rise of internet and the World Wide Web that has created access to any information, radically raising technology for the past decades. This new form of digital journalism has brought the global market close together and it has given people the platform to get access to information. The developments of mobile phones and handsets have been among the most significant developments in journalism. This is because they have widened the access of information and news to people all over the world. The most significant development of journalism is the quick access to internet; this has been possible due to its availability and the low cost.

Analysis of the Movie Exorcist Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Analysis of the Movie Exorcist - Essay Example The documentary-like and gritty feel of the film also gives an added realistic mood and that might signify the reality of everyday life. Damien Karras is the main character who is both a psychiatrist and a priest. He is depicted as a torn man with doubts that are wiped away once he confronts the Devil. The scene where he visits Regan and records her growling voice while speaking to each other in Latin is probably the only humorously peculiar scene in the entire movie The trend towards more graphic violence in movies parallels the transition of the general viewing audience to a higher shock level. The audience is shocked by physical harm for instance fist fights or slapping, movie monsters like demon Pazuzu, urination scenes and vomit, gratuitous blood scenes. These scenes are supported with green projectile vomit, spinning heads, shaking beds and gross makeup. The movie is full of graphic domestic violence, documentary film violence (executions and accidents) and the desecration of the Virgin Mary. Expansive landscapes of death and demons walking like horrible spiders add the impression of the Beyond. From the emergence of the Hammer horrors on films have shocked the audience further by the fact that evil is so often allowed to triumph at the end of more recent films is as much connected with this change in the tolerance threshold as with the incidence of a darker, more pessimistic outlook on life. Sound effects play an important role in heating up the atmosphere of constant horror.  For instance, the slingshot sound effect and shadows create the impression of something terrible and unknown.

Why kids attract towards animation and 3d animated films Essay

Why kids attract towards animation and 3d animated films - Essay Example Bentrancourt and Chassot (2008, p. 3) highlight that the fundamental reason why kids are attracted towards animated films is due to the visualizations they create, which helps in overall understanding of situations. Further, it is claimed that animations are very helpful for kids because they enhance memory of the animated information which later aids to advance comprehension of various situations depicted by the animations. Therefore, it is observed that animations are attractive to children because they create memorization and comprehension of whatever subject they illustrate. Moreover, kids are attracted to animations and 3d animated films because they are funny and entertaining to watch. Therefore, they are very appealing, humorous, motivating and most often capture children’s attention. In their tender age and little comprehension abilities, kids get bored when watching television, hence, they are usually inclined to watch more fun and entertaining programs than TV programs, which are mostly in the form of animations (Shanghai Jianghong Gifts, 2008). For example, if children were doing their homework at home and an adult was watching news, they are likely not to develop any interest in the TV. However, if the channel is changed to a cartoon program, the kids will lose interest in the homework and will be motivated to watch TV. This proves that kids are attracted towards animated films because they are fun and entertaining to watch. In addition, kids are attracted to animation films because animations use space in representing elements in their relations. In this case, animations create characters that kids are able to relate to and themes which make character differences and this attracts them to watch animated films. Therefore, when kids watch animated films, they also develop favourite characters who might be good in the film. Hence, this will give the

A Research Proposal on the Role of the Chief Executive Officer Essay Example for Free

A Research Proposal on the Role of the Chief Executive Officer Essay Questions One of the major problems in business is the notion of whether companies should be concerned with other issues than profitability. Adam Smith in 1863 claimed that the process of achieving the overall good for the society is something that will happen inevitably happen because of his idea of the invisible hand of the market. However, more contemporary ideas assert otherwise as they believed that there are a number of conditions that would hinder the invisible hand to work effectively (Mohr and Webb, 2002). The concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is deeply rooted on the commitment of organizations to continue their business in an ethical manner. It is in this respect that organizations are said to necessarily contribute to the overall economic development of ones country while at the same time improving the quality of life of not only its employees and its families but also the society where it belonged (Watts and Holme, 1999). One of the central concerns with regard to the necessity of the implementation of CSR by a particular organization is the impact of a particular company’s decisions and actions within the society together with their responsibility in the aforementioned. As such this means that when aligning certain organizational goals or projects, it would be better if organizations will evaluate first their actions and make sure that they are in accordance to the welfare of the greater good (Parsons, 1954). As such, the impact of an organizations decision within the society is very vital in CSR. It should be emphasized as well that an organizations duty should span more than the economic and legal aspects but also assume the good of the majority. Archie Carroll said that an organizations social responsibility is something that includes the interplay of four important factors. These are economic performance, adherence with the law, ethical responsibility, good corporate citizenship, and improving the societys quality of life (Carrol and Buchholtz, 2003). However despite companies claim for CSR implementation, a significant number of evidence tells that every year, there are numerous companies that are charged for violating environmental laws (Kassinis and Panayiotou, 2006, p. 68). Problems The success of a company’s CSR and the its effect on the company’s image has been viewed by a number of studies to be directly correlated on the role of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) (PR News, 2007). It has been said by Kassinis and Panayiotou (2006) that the role of the CEO is very vital since they are the ones who are primarily responsible for the boards decision-management functions and the even the extent of corporate wrongdoing. The interpretation of the CEO in terms of various environmental issues that could have affect their firms and its choice of environmental strategies have also a significant implication on the overall image and performance of a particular company. Studies such as those conducted by PR News Wire in 2008 claimed that to belong to Fortune’s Worlds Most Admired Companies, the CEOs role together with his or her capacity to create a strategy or hire specific experts who can effectively handle CSR concerns, such as hiring a competitive Chief Communications Officer (CCO,) is very vital. Companies which belong to Fortunes annual awards are often evaluated based on their reputation. According to PR News in 2007, it is often the case that CEOs are the ones who are held accountable in terms of the failure to protect the company image in whenever a crisis arises. The study of PR News revealed that in out of 950 global business executives in 11 countries, 68% of the results attributed unethical behavior to the CEO, and 60% cited environmental violations and product recalls to the CEO as well. The influence of the perceptions of various stakeholders, regulators, communities and employees has been viewed by Kassinis and Panayiotou (2006) as critical to the welfare of the firm as they are centrally involved in enforcing the laws and other policies that companies must adhere to. Figure 1: Relationship Between CSR and Stakeholders Source: Tokoro (2007) The figure above shows the direct relationship of stakeholders to CSR in terms of the restrictions that they impose, the resource deals that they pass and the overall value creation of the organization. Gap in Research Even if the claim on the role of CEOs in terms of dealing with issues of CSR and company reputation, other studies suggests that CSR strategies and policies are instead delegated to the shareholders (Kassinis and Panayiotou, 2006, p. 67). It is often the case that the demands of the shareholders are oftentimes in conflict with the interest of customers, suppliers, governments, unions, competitors, local communities, and the general public (Sims, 2003, p. 40). The table below shows an overview of perceptions of Table 1: Stakeholders View of Corporate Responsibility Stakeholders Nature of Stakeholder Claim Shareholders Participation in distribution of profits, additional stock offerings, assets on liquidation; vote of stock; inspection of company books; transfer of stock; election of board of directors; and such additional rights as have been established in the contract with the corporation. Employees Economic, social, and psychological satisfaction in the place of employment. Freedom from arbitrary and capricious behavior on the part of company officials. Share in fringe benefits, freedom to join union and participate in collective bargaining, individual freedom in offering up their services through an employment contract. Adequate working conditions. Customers Service provided with the product; technical data to use the product; suitable warranties; spare parts to support the product during use; RD leading to product improvement; facilitation of credit. Creditors Legal proportion of interest payments due and return of principal from the investment. Security of pledged assets; relative priority in event of liquidation. Management and owner prerogatives if certain conditions exist with the company (such as default of interest payments). Suppliers Continuing source of business; timely consummation of trade credit obligations; professional relationship in contracting for, purchasing, and receiving goods and services. Unions Recognition as the negotiating agent for employees. Opportunity to perpetuate the union as a participant in the business organization. Competitors Observation of the norms of competitive conduct established by society and the industry. Business statesmanship on the part of peers. Governments Taxes (income, property, and so on); adherence to the letter and intent of public policy dealing with the requirements of fair and free competition; discharge of legal obligations of businesspeople (and business organizations); adherence to antitrust laws. Local communities Place of productive and healthful environment in the community. Participation of company officials in community affairs, provision of regular employment, fair play, reasonable portion of purchases made in the local community, interest in and support of local government, support of cultural and charitable projects. The general public Participation in and contribution to society as a whole; creative communications between governmental and business units designed for reciprocal understanding; assumption of fair proportion of the burden of government and society. Fair price for products and advancement of the state-of-the-art technology that the product line involves. Source: Sims, 2003, p. 41 For instance, consumers expect that the company should be able to carry out their business in a responsible manner; on the other hand, stakeholders expect that their investments would be returned. In other instances, customers are looking forward a return on what they paid for, while suppliers look for dependable buyers. The government wanted companies to follow legislations, while unions seek benefits for their members. The competitors, expected companies to do their business in a fair manner and local communities wanted the aforementioned to be responsible citizens. Finally, the general public expects organizations to improve the over all quality of human life, while shareholders might view this proposition as utopian (Sims, 2003). The figure below shows the dynamics of stakeholder interactions. Figure 2: Value Creation Through Dialogue with Stakeholders Source: Tokoro (2007) As such, it is in this respect that it could be said that CEOs and a particular company’s responsiveness to the demands of CSR and eventually creating a strong image is something could not be the sole determining factor for a successful CSR. Instead, the question of whether CEOs are only implementing the demands of the company’s stakeholders, or the CEOs only attending to consumer, suppliers, government, community and general public demand should also be taken into close consideration. Deficiency As most researches often attribute the success or failure of a CSR strategy to the CEO, the role and influence of other stakeholders in the organization are not often viewed as significant variables worthy of consideration. Only most recent researches are significantly attributing stakeholder roles in terms of its relationship to CSR. Albeit, based from the researcher’s survey of various secondary data, there are hardly any robust literatures stating the influence of stakeholders to the CEO and eventually the latter’s decision on how to implement its CSR program. Purpose The study is vital in order to not only contribute to the existing studies on the role of CEOs and a successful CSR program; but also to further strengthen the claim on the relationship of CSR and a favorable company image. More importantly, subtle factors that might have influenced CEO decisions, strategies and policies such as those coming from company stakeholders will be taken into close consideration and in addition, will be taken as important variables for the research. Although studies on the direct relationship of company stakeholders and CSR and presented by various researches, the role of the stakeholders in terms of influencing the CEO in its CSR decisions are seldom taken into consideration. As such it is with this respect that the research seeks to significantly contribute to the scholarly studies devoted in order to analyze such dynamics. Research Questions Main Question For the purpose of this research, the study wanted to know: What is the role of the CEO in terms of promoting the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs of their organization and its relation to building a favorable image? Subquestions Specifically, the research wanted to know: 1. What is the relationship between a successful CSR program and the role of the CEO? 2. What is the relationship between a successful CSR program and a favorable brand image? 3. What is the role of the following in terms of influencing the CSR strategies of a particular organization: a. Shareholders b. Consumers c. Suppliers d. General Public 4. How did company shareholders, consumers, suppliers and the general public influence the strategy of the CEO in terms of implementing its CSR program? Methodology Research Tradition For the purpose of this research, the study will be employing both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Â  It is often the case that quantitative research employs the method that is based on testing of theories. It uses measurement of numbers, and statistical analysis to perform its studies. The idea behind quantitative research is often to ascertain that a generalized theory or the prediction of a theory will be confirmed by the use of numbers. The aforementioned normally starts with a research question or a hypothesis in addition to other theories that are needed to be tested. The approach of quantitative research includes the use of formal and generally recognized instruments (O’brien 1998). In addition to this, the quantitative tradition of research focuses on conducting experiments with an underlying expectation that a consensus would be arrived at. This method usually aims to arrive at a predictable generalization, and a causal explanation. Quantitative research can create a controlled environment in order to attain inductive analysis. The goal of this research tradition is to establish a consensus by reducing data to numerical indications, hence finally identifying if certain generalizations are valid or invalid (O’brien 1998). In this research method it is very relevant that the researcher must maintain its independence from the research object; and consequently, the research outcome is expected to be not value affected (O’brien 1998). The quantitative methodology also tests cause and effect by using deductive logic. When done correctly a quantitative research should be able to predict, and explain the theory in question (O’brien 1998). On the other hand, the Qualitative research focuses primarily on words rather than numbers. The main research instrument for such a type of tradition is the process of involvement of the researcher to the people whom he or she studies (Dyamon and Holloway, 2002). In relation with this, the viewpoints of the participants are also taken into much account. The Qualitative research tradition focuses on small-scale studies wherein deep explorations are being conducted in order to provide a detailed and holistic description and explanation of a specific subject matter. Rather than focusing on a single or two isolated variables, the aforementioned takes into account interconnected activities, experiences, beliefs and values of people, hence adopting a multiple dimension for study. This tradition of research is also flexible in a sense that certain factors are being explored due to not necessarily adhering to a strict method of data gathering. It also captures certain processes wherein changes in sequence of events, behaviors and transformation among cultures are closely taken into consideration. More importantly, a qualitative research is normally carried out in venues that are within a respondents natural environment such as schools, offices, homes, etc. This allowed participants to be more at ease and be able to express their ideas freely (Dyamon and Holloway, 2002). Data Gathering The data gathering will consist of secondary and primary data collections. Ghauri, Gronhaug and Kristianslund (1995) emphasized the importance of secondary data collection most especially through desk or library research. Secondary data collection normally includes data that were collected by another researcher or writer. It is often the case that they are lifted from books of recent publications, journals, magazines, newspapers and even trusted websites such as those of private organizations, non-government organizations, government organizations and the likes. The review of related literature will provide a scholarly perspective on the subject matter and at the same time made the researcher aware of both previous and contemporary research on the subject matter. For the purpose of this research, the author will be using scholarly journals and articles, books and magazines specifically focusing on the oil and gas industry; and freight industry in the Middle East, most specifically Turkey. The scholarly literatures will be primarily taken from EBSCO Host, JSTOR and Questia Media America, an exclusive on-line library. For the primary data collection for quantitative data, the study will be conducting surveys among consumers, suppliers and general public using questions of ordinal measurement using Likert scales for General Electric. Surveys include the process of using questionnaires with the aim of making an estimation of the perceptions of the subjects of the study. Surveys are considered advantageous because it could be used to study a huge number of subjects (Ghauri, Gronhaug and Kristianslund, 1995). On the other hand, interviews will be conducted among selected GE shareholders regarding their perception on the role of the CEO and implementation of the company’s CSR. Data Gathering Methods and their Justification For the purpose of this research, the researcher will be using self-administered questionnaires. Self-administered questionnaires often times offer a higher response rate and are also relatively cost effective (Ghauri, Gronhaug and Kristianslund, 1995). Foremost of its advantage rests on the notion that the process of data gathering could be more personal and also the researcher will be able to clarify certain notions that could be unclear in the survey form. However, one distinct disadvantage of such a method is the difficulty of administrating the survey to multiple respondents all at the same time. In addition, the self-administered data gathering could be very time consuming as well. The research will also be conducting an interview in order to collect the qualitative data necessary for the research. Interviews are very relevant most specially in getting data that could be a rich source of information that surveys could not provide (Ghauri, Gronhaug and Kristianslund, 1995). For the purpose of interviewing, various stakeholders from General Electric Corporation will be asked with regard to their perceptions of how GE should be employing its CSR, and their perceptions on the role of the CEO in terms of effectively implementing its CSR and the company’s image. Questionnaire Design The questionnaire design for the survey will be made in a detailed, precise and logical construction of close-ended questions. In addition with this, the questions will also be made in accordance with the research question and the objectives of the research (Oppenheim, 1992). The questions will be formulated using an ordinal scale and will be close-ended in nature. Such is relevant so that respondents would only have to encircle or check the designated number of their corresponding responses (Oppenhein, 1992). In addition to this, close-ended questions are very easy to answer and could enable the researcher create a summated value that could be use for data analysis. The questions that will be used in the interview will be tailored in such a manner that would directly answer concerns that are in accordance of the objectives of the study. The questions for the shareholders will be specifically created in a manner where there will be an open flow of information and exchange of ideas. The details on how consumers, suppliers and general public wanted the company to act together with its policies and possible ethical practices will be included in the survey. In this respect, questions will be formulated with a closed-ended nature. Sampling For the purpose of this research, the researcher will conduct a survey based on simple random sampling (SRS) which will include randomly choosing participants coming from consumers, suppliers and general public. On the other hand, the research will be employing purposive sampling methods in terms of choosing the stakeholders of General Electric who can participate in the study. Target Population According to Ghauri, Gronhaug and Kristianslund (1995) research should cater to a target population that has all the necessary information for the research such as sampling elements, sampling units, and area of coverage. For the purpose of this study, the author is trying to identify the role of consumers, suppliers and the general public. As such, the study will be asking 120 respondents to participate in the survey of which will primarily come from consumers and suppliers of General Electric as well as the general public who are concerned with General Electric and its operations. Reliability and Validity The studys reliability and validity go hand in hand as patterns of measurement are both dependent on the aforementioned (Zikmund, 1994). Reliability primarily focuses on the internal consistency and the repeatability of the variables within the research. On the other hand, validity centers on the correctness and appropriateness of the question that one intends to measure (Ghauri, Gronhaug and Kristianslund, 1995). According to Chisnall (1997), validity is generally considered and established through the relationship of the instrument to the content, criterion or construct that it attempts to measure. A lack of validity can lead to incorrect conclusion. In order to make sure that the instrument that will be used are reliable and valid, the researcher will assure that such is patterned based on the objectives of the study, the secondary data and also on the feedback that was given based on the pilot study that will be conducted. Analysis of Data Data information gathered from the surveys and interviews and secondary data from the other studies found will be used for the analysis that would answer the research question. Charts and comparisons of data will be used as analysis tools. Statistics used will be based on the survey results from the questionnaire made by the researcher. Statistical Products and Service Solutions (SPSS) will also be used to determine the stand of the respondents regarding a particular question formulated in the survey (Griego and Morgan, 2000, p. 2). References Carroll A. and Buchholtz A.K., (2003). Business and Society: Ethics and Stakeholder Management, 5th ed. Mason, O.: South-Western. Chisnall P. M., (1997). Marketing Research, 5ed., Berkshire: McGraw-Hill. Woodruff H. (1995), Services Marketing. London: Pitman Publishing Daymon C. and Holloway I., (2002). Qualitative Research Methods in Public Relations and Marketing Communications. London: Routledge. Ghauri, P., Gronhaug, K. and Kristianslund, I., (1995). Research Methods In Business Studies: A Practical Guide. Great Britain: Prentice Hall. Griego O. and Morgan G. (2000). SPSS for Windows: An Introduction to Use and Interpretation in Research. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. Kassinis G. and Panayiotou, A. (2006). Perceptions Matter: CEO Perceptions and Firm Environmental Performance. The Journal of Corporate Citizenship, (23), p. 67. Mohr L.A. and Webb D. J., (2001). Do Consumers Expect Companies to Be Socially Responsible? the Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility on Buying Behavior. Journal of Consumer Affairs. (35) (1). OBrien, Gerard J. (1998) The Role of Implementation in Connectionist Explanation, Psychology, (9) 6, p.3. Oppenhein, A. N, (1992). Questionnaire Design Interviewing and Attitude Measurement. London: Pinter. Parsons, Talcott (1954). Essays in Sociological Theory. Revised Edition. New York: Free Press. PR News Wire (2008). Corporate Communications Officers in Worlds Most Admired Companies Have Longer Tenures, Fewer Rivals and Report to the CEO; New Study Underscores Critical and Evolving Role of the CCO -; Forecasts CCOs Shifting Focus To Reputation, Social Responsibility and Social Media in 2008. Accessed in the PR News Wire Database. PR News (2007). Quick Study: CEOs Bear Responsibility; Customer Relations Is Dysfunctional; Social Media Invades. PR News. Potomac, (63), 9, p. 1 PR News. (2006). Changing Face Of CSR: New Trends Redefine Doing Well By Doing Good. PR News. Potomac, (62) 42, p. 1 Sims, R., (2003). Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility: Why Giants Fall. Westport, CT: Praeger. Tokoro N (2007). Stakeholders and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): A New Perspective on the Structure of Relationships. Asian Business Management, 6 (2), pp.143-162. Watts P. and Holme R. (1999). Meeting Changing Expectations: Corporate Social Responsibility Available: http://www.wbcsd.org/publications/csrpub.htm [accessed 5June 2008]. Zikmund, G. W. (1994). Exploring Marketing Research. Dryden.

The Importance of the Modern Era of Political Philosophy Essay Example for Free

The Importance of the Modern Era of Political Philosophy Essay The Modern Era of political philosophy is best characterized as a revolt against the traditional constraints of the time. Machiavelli believed that politics should be separate and distinct from ethics, morality, and religion. Protestant reformers such as Luther and Calvin went head to head with the Catholic Church, paving the way for religious individualism and incorporating various political revisions. Hobbes called for a major overhaul in England concerning not only political and religious issues, but social and economic ones as well. As modern philosophers began to voice their opinions, Central, Southern, and Western Europe began to change drasticallychanges that would affect the direction of Western political thought forever. Niccolo Machiavelli, born in Florence, Italy in 1469, was the first political philosopher to recognize the importance and potential of the nation-state, an idea he shared with the world. This idea was shared primarily through Machiavellis most notable works: The Prince and Discourses on the First Ten Books of Titus Livius. The Prince was dedicated to the new Medici (the ruling family in Florence at the time) ruler, Lorenzo; some modern interpreters have viewed the work primarily as a plea for forgiveness, as Machiavelli wanted his civil service job back after being suspected of treason. As indicated in his two major works, Machiavelli had two distinct goals: the desire to return to active government service and the promotion of stability and freedom from foreign control, secular or religious, for all of Italy. Martin Luthers (1483-1546) discrepancies with the Catholic Church began early in his career when he attacked the sale of indulgences and also came to the conclusion that human nature is wretched and sinful. He also criticized the popes absolutism and the church hierarchy. When Luther finally poured his heart out onto paper in 1517, the result was his Disputation on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences, otherwise known as the Ninety-five Theses, which he promptly nailed to the church door in his hometown of Wittenberg, Germany. Three years later Luther wrote an essay  entitled An Appeal to the Ruling Class. Each of these works as well as Luthers other writings made three main allegations against the church. These allegations were known as the Three Walls. The first wall he attacks is the fact that secular power has no control over the pope. The second wall deals with the idea that the church is more than just the pope; it encompasses everyone who is a member of the faith. This particular wall disputed the idea of papal infallibility as well as the pope as the sole authority of the church. The third wall Luther confronts concerns the claim that only the pope can summon a council to resolve or address church issues, such as questions of doctrine. Later that same year, the pope excommunicated Luther from the Catholic Church, but not before Luthers words had a significant impact on the Catholic Church. These events cause Christians to reexamine the relationship between church and state-authority through the eyes of the individual, as well as defining limits on both church and state power. John Calvin, born in 1509, founded one of the first sects of Protestantism that developed after Luthers revamp of the Catholic Church. Calvin shared the belief that human deeds cannot ensure salvation and that government serves as a punishment and remedy for human sin. In his book Institutes of the Christian Religion, Calvin distinguishes two types of government: the spiritual, by which the conscience is formed to piety and the service of God; and the political, by which a man is instructed in the duties of humanity and civility. Almost overnight, the Protestant Reformation brought the monolithic foundation of medieval Christianity down, leaving behind several new concepts in political thought. During the first half of the 17th century, English philosopher Thomas Hobbes found conflict on numerous fronts concerning English society. The first issue was concerning religious freedom, pitting King Charles I and his Anglican Church against a number of independent Protestant sects. Hobbes and his Protestant followers claimed that the Anglican Church was too close in organization and liturgy to the Catholic Church. They also rejected the claim of Charles I to rule by divine right. The second issue was political in nature, concerning the fact that England did not have a written  constitution (and still do not today), thereby allowing for Parliamentary error and inconsistancies. The third issue that Hobbes was concerned with was the fact that social and economic issues were becoming interrelated due to a growing middle class who demanded more political representation in Parliament. During Hobbess lifetime, the world experienced a scientific revolution due to important discoveries. The spirit of forward progress influenced Hobbess understanding of politics as well. Hobbes treated his issues like scientific theory, always concerned with precise definitions and correct terminology. On what basis could the practice of government be conducted once society was no longer a community? asks the central philosophical question concerning Hobbess political philosophies. Hobbes reinforces the basis for politics of the Modern Era by uniting absolutism and consent, taking his cues from the scientific revolution of the era. Hobbess most important philosophical work, Leviathan, discusses human nature from the standpoint of the individual, thus defining the foundation for Hobbess political universe. Obviously, Hobbess political focus is on the individual; however, some critics argue whether Hobbess philosophies were intended as a scientific blueprint for a fit government as Hobbes saw it, or if his philosophies merely succeeded in raising questions about the balance between individual liberty and social order. Of all the versatile philosophers associated with the Modern Era of political philosophy, only Niccolo Machiavelli can be described as the personification of the transformation from the medieval to the modern era. Machiavellis aggregate view of politics focuses on the individual. In contradiction to the values of ancient and medieval political philosophers, Machiavelli establishes a separation between personal morality and necessary political practice. The Florentine also supports the idea of a republican state, thus allowing the greatest degree of liberty. He created a new science of politics with a more down-to-earth and practical set of principles. Machiavellis recognition of the importance and potential of the nation-state not only set him apart from his predecessors, but also ushered in a new era of political thought, paving the way toward the unfolding  Western political tradition. The importance of the Modern Era of political philosophy is plainly evident in todays society. A large part of the Constitution of the United States is based on the liberal philosophies of the Modern Era. The idea of separation of church and state is most prolific during this era, and it remains today one of the fundamental principles of liberty upon which the governments of the United States and numerous other nation-states in the West are based. Also, the focus of individual liberty is very apparent in many of the political discourses of the Modern philosophers. Had the philosophers of the Modern Era not battled the widespread corruption apparent in the Catholic Church and the ruling classes across Europe, who is to say that the Western political tradition would have unfolded at all?

The Competitive Advantages Of Effective Knowledge Management Commerce Essay

The Competitive Advantages Of Effective Knowledge Management Commerce Essay Today, the future and the value of a company depends on provide the new product and service quickly and timely in order to meet the needs that always change in the market. Thus, I believe that knowledge is the more importance factor than land or capitals to create a competitive advantage for enterprises. And now, this essay will discuss more about the value of managing knowledge and some competitive advantages that can be created through knowledge management in the company. Then, I would like to discuss about the In addition, this essay is also talk about the leadership and managerial skills in the organization by implementing successfully KM. DISCUSSION ABOUT THE KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT: Data, Information, Knowledge: Nowadays, we are living in an age of information that we can find easy through television, internet, magazines etc. But not all information is reliable. Transforming information into knowledge within the organization is an advantage. However, not all managers have able to do it. Thus, the first thing I want to discuss about the difference between data, information and knowledge in order to transform raw data into meaningful information. Data is the raw material. It can be a set of discrete facts and exist in any form such as number, symbols, imaging etc. Data represents unorganized and unprocessed facts. Data is transformed into information by adding value through context, sorting, calculating, analysis and evaluation. Information can be considered as a processed data. Data and information are everywhere but knowledge is hard to get. You need information in order to get knowledge. However, knowledge is not information. Information is only becomes knowledge when you have able to realize and understand specific purpose of it. Knowledge is usually come from learning, thinking or taking experiences in a particular area. Knowledge has two types: Explicit knowledge and tacit knowledge. Explicit knowledge is the visible knowledge. You can find them easily through book, documents, reports, films, magazines, etc. The explicit knowledge is easily transferable. In contrast, tacit knowledge is the knowledge that put in your mind. Simply, tacit knowledge is the personal experience, skills and hard to transferable. For example: Each pastry cook can made Tiramisu cake with different flavors, although all of them use with the same Tiramisu Cake recipe. Some cake are delicious, some cake are bad. Because skilled pastry cook has not shown own experiences in recipe. May be, they can add some special ingredients to make their cakes with good flavorful. This is the tacit knowledge. They did not share their experiences as well as knowledge for everyone. I think this is the importance aspect in the organization. The managers must look for ways to employees can share tacit knowledge together in a particular sector. Tha ts also the objective of knowledge management. Knowledge management: Knowledge Management (KM) can be defined as the logical process that helps people to use knowledge effectively and efficiently. Knowledge management is the process the company uses to measure the value of the intellectual value of each employee in the company. Moreover, it is the process used to evaluate and track key metrics associated with the organization of intellectual property can be used to create better services, products and value to shareholders of the corporation. There are many different knowledge management life cycles. They are made by Wiig (Wiig Knoeldge management cycle 1993), Zack (Zack Knowledge Management Cycle 1996), Nickols (Nickols Knowledge Management Cycle 1999), McElroy (McElroy Knowledge Management Cycle 1999), Rollet (Rollet Knowledge Management Cycle 2003), Bukowitz Williams (BW Knowledge management cycle 20003). Actually, they have some common steps and meaning. However, each cycle has its own characteristic. Look at the table below for comparison. Nickols (1999) Wigg (1993) McElroy (1999) Rollet (2003) Bukowitz Williams (2003) Zack (1996) Acquisition Creation Individual and group learning Planning Get Acquisition Organization Sourcing Knowledge claim validation Creation Use Refinement Specialization Complication Information acquisition Integrating Learn Distribution Store/ access Transformation Knowledge validation Organizing Contribute Presentation Retrieve Dissemination Knowledge Integration Transferring Assess Distribution Application Maintaining Build/ sustain Conservation Value realization Assessing Divest Source: Adapted from Kimiz Dalkir, Knowledge Management in Theory and Practice (Oxford: Elsevier Butterworth, 2005), pp. 27. Competitive advantages: Although there are many different perspectives on knowledge management, however the general objective of knowledge management is look for ways to employees share and learn knowledge as well as experiences together. Thats not only help employees improve the expertise knowledge, but also the knowledge management can create the competitive advantages and enhance value for enterprises. As you know, human resource is the valuable asset in organization. If the organization can use this resource effectively, organization will become very strong. Knowledge management can give all the employees in organization many opportunities to show ideas and innovation. Therefore, organization can have more opportunities and advantages than competitors. The employees can share expertise knowledge, experiences or passion together. Thats also make all of the employees in organization more closer and understand  each other  better In addition, transforming from tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge is not only help improve expertise knowledge of employees, but also help the organization have enough capable of responding promptly to the change in personnel. And now, I would like to give you a reality example as well as an incident by not applying knowledge management in organization.   It occurred in my familys restaurant in three years ago. When my manager intends to open a restaurant of his own, he has left the restaurant. The important thing, he has taken away all the experience, the trade secret and a lot of good employees and the relationships. Then he became a competitor with my restaurant. During that period, my restaurant encountered a lot of trouble and business performance decreased seriously. Another example, at Tam Viet Group in 2007, a vice president has left the company and he established an own company to direct competitive with the Tam Viet. By applying knowledge management, all these knowle dge such as customer relationships, unfinished projects, etc. were acquired and stored by all other employees. Therefore, Tam Vietnamese were not affected. Additionally, Knowledge management can also give to the enterprise with high adaptability in the rapidly changing marketplace. The competitors are always updates their products and services better to meet the demand of customer. Therefore, most of the successful enterprises are always catch information and transfer them rapidly. By applying the knowledge management, the enterprises can easily compete with other competitors. The organization can launch new products with the higher quality than competitors at the same cost. The employees can save time through making decision or solving the problems quickly and exactly. KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT ON SUPPORTING MANAGERIAL PRACTICES: Similar to those competitive advantages that I mentioned above, knowledge management can help manager so much in practices. Firstly, the employees have a freely environment to performance themselves. The employees can share and learn knowledge, experiences, idea together. Therefore, the manager can collects and exploits tacit knowledge or innovation in order to enhance competitor advantage for the organization. Additionally, KM can help manager make decision timely and exactly by capturing,  analyzing  and  conversing  of information logically. In addition, the manager will have enough response to device with changing of the marketplace as well as the human resources. Leadership and managerial skills: A manager needs to have a good leadership to change products, systems and people efficiency. A good leader must have capacity to accelerate the process to decide a matter and to make process work effectively and quickly. It is a difficult problem. A good manager should have more diverse skills in order to have enough capable of handling all of problems in the organization. The first skill is the information technology (IT) skill. I think this is the key For example: in my first internship at ACB bank, I can get information of customer trading history via CIC.org.vn website. You will save more time for get information of customer. Thats progress of technology. Thats also the reason the manager should have a good IT skill to support the management easier and faster. In the high technology age, a good manager should know to take advantage of technology to support for the management and sharing knowledge in the organization. If so, companies will have more competitive advantages than competitors. In addition, a manager should also build a trust and respect relationship with employees. Listening skill is also important. As a manager, you should build an open structure. I mean that you should gap of discrimination between superiors and subordinates. The subordinate can easily meet and express freely their opinions to you. Listening will help you clearly understand about your staffs in order to make decisions fairer and more accurate. Lets change the last skill that I want to discuss is the communication skill. In my opinion, communication is the most difficult and complicates skill of the manager. According to John Quincy Adams If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader. Its a great statement. A manager has to know create motivation for employees in order to they have enthusiasm and try their best to work. The motivation is not only based on the high salary, but also based on the workplace. A manager can adapts communities of practice (COP) program in the company. COP is considered as a group of people hold together by sharing the knowledge, experiences, ideas or something like that. COP program can provide a place for employees in particular areas or require employees work in team to share methods or tacit knowledge and mutual support. Thus, the employees can improve their knowledge; learn more about the experiences and more closer. Besides that, manager s hould also consider one of the challenges of communication, the different cultures. Especially is the multinational company. this is a new step to the understanding by employing individuals from various backgrounds, cultures and lifestyles. Perceptual, Cultural and language barriers are a challenge to be overcome when a company work in the global orientated environment. It affects team spirit, work efficiency, directly affect the business situation of the company. Moreover, it is the cause of lack of teamwork, morale low. The different culture can affect a company and its success in variety of ways. CONCLUTION: In conclusion, the knowledge management is a new way to develop your company in the future. From the very beginning, the essay discussed some basic concept of the knowledge management for you. As you can see the next part talked about the competitive advantages that the company can take from KM. There are so many, for example: using human resource effectively, transferring from tacit knowledge to deficit knowledge, etc. Moreover, the knowledge management will help the managers in many ways. And, of course, the managers have to learn and develop his/her skills to managing knowledge. There are some basic skills that a manager should have are listening skills, IT skills, etc. In the knowledge economy, knowledge management has more impacts on organizations. Applying knowledge management is considered as a key for success organization. The strong organization always has a good knowledge management. Rà µ rà  ng trong nà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ n kinh tà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¿ hià ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¡n Ä‘Ã ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¡i hÆ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ºng tri thà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©c, vai trà ² cà ¡Ã‚ »a quà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £n là ½ tri thà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ © là   và ´ cà ¹ng quan trà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ng. Nà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¿u khà ´ng à ½ thà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©c Ä‘Æ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ £c Ä‘ià ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ u nà  y mà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â€ž ¢t cà ¡ch Ä‘Ã ºng Ä‘Ã ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¯n, nguy cÆ ¡ tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¢n thà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¥t tri thà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©c rà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¥t dà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ xà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £y ra và   mang là ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¡i nhà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ¯ng thià ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¡t hà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¡i khà ³ cà ³ thà ¡Ã‚ »Ã†â€™ tà ­nh toà ¡n hà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¿t. Tri thà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©c cÃ…Â ©ng nhÆ ° nguà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬Å"n nhà ¢n là ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ±c là   yà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¿u tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ sà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬Ëœng cà ²n cho sà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ± tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬Å"n tà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¡i cà ¡Ã‚ »a mà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ i tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ chà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©c. Tà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¥t nhià ªn, Ãƒâ€žÃ¢â‚¬Ë œÃƒ ¢y là   mà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â€ž ¢t khà ¡i nià ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¡m cà ²n mà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ºi nhÆ °ng mà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ i tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ chà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©c cà ¡Ã‚ ºn phà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £i chà ¡Ã‚ » Ä‘Ã ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â€ž ¢ng nghià ªn cà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©u và   và ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ­n dà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ¥ng sà ¡ng tà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¡o. Quà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £n là ½ tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬Ëœt tri thà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©c tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©c là   hià ¡Ã‚ »Ã†â€™u rà µ Ä‘Æ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ £c bà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ £n thà ¢n, bià ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¿t Ä‘Æ °Ãƒ ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ £c Ä‘ià ¡Ã‚ »Ã†â€™m mà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¡nh và   Ä‘ià ¡Ã‚ »Ã†â€™m yà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¿u cà ¡Ã‚ »a mà ¬nh Ä‘Ã ¡Ã‚ »Ã†â€™ tà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ « Ä‘Ã ³ Ä‘Ã ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚  ra nhà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ¯ng bià ¡Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¡n phà ¡p gà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ·t hà ¡i thà  nh cà ´ng trong nà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ n kinh tà ¡Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¿ tri thà ¡Ã‚ »Ã‚ ©c.

Essay examples --

In the past, people have always tried their own ways of using daily measurements. It was needed and used for daily trade as well as further businesses. These things could only have been made if the people knew they were being fair and honest; hence, the reason that different measurements needed to exist. Many short distance measurements were based on the lengths of the human body. The width of a thumb was used to resemble the inch, which we used today in the English System of Measurements. The foot, which is twelve inches, was compared to the length of the human foot; however, today it is derived to be longer than most people’s feet. The yard, which is equal to three feet, was inferred to be the length from the tip of the nose, to the end of the middle finger when the arm and hand are extended. The Anglo Saxons of England measured these short differences in their own ways too. The length of three barleycorns was their length of the inch (it was very close to the modern length) . Then in 1066, the Normans conquered England and brought back to England the Roman tradition of the twelve inch foot. During the reign of Henry I the foot became official and was engraved on the base of a column of St. Peter’s church in London (Rowlett, R. (2001). A dictionary of units of measurement. English customary weights and measures). He also arranged the yard to be established in England as well. Although, inches, feet, yards etc. measured shorter distances, miles were used to measure much longer distances. This mile was a Roman unit, which was primarily the length of 1,000 paces of a Roman legion. The â€Å"pace† was meant to be two steps, about five feet, which measured the mile to be roughly about 5,000 feet. The basic unit that was used for weight ... .... Origin of the metric system). Currently, people of many countries use this SI unit for measurements. The meter is used for measuring length (it can be converted to millimeters, centimeters, decimeters, kilometers, decameters, and hectometers). The liter is used to measure volume and its conversions are similar to the meter conversions. The gram is used to measure mass and its conversions follow the meter’s conversions as well. Scientists from all over the world make sure of they use this metric system in order to communicate data and make all calculations simpler. Although a vast majority of world uses the metric system in daily activities, the United States, UK, and other countries decide to still use English units daily. And even though everyone in the world may use different measurements daily, it was all created to make our lives a little simpler each day.

He think he Jesus :: essays research papers

It was a typical day as any other with the only exception that it was nearly 50 degrees in the middle of December. People were operating as they always due skating through their business day while they sip on their Starbucks and yell at someone on their cell phone. But hey, that’s the world we live in, blank stairs, exchanging un-pleasantry’s and so on and so forth. Kids like me sit at tables trying to make some kind of pointless conversation with an attractive female while we stair into their eyes trying to figure out which words will get you laid up with them the fastest. All is moving fine until your plan is interrupted. Not by your â€Å"game† of course, never that, but by this bummy looking older man who decides to sit at the same table.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Do you need help with your chemistry homework?† He asks my potential prey and points to her chemistry book that has been opened to the same page for the past 20 minutes. He wears a look of confidence despite his tattered fashion and yellow teeth. Now I am not one too big on believing in stereotypes, however, I call it how I see it and he looked like a bum, point blank. He began to speak about the basics of chemistry while sipping on coffee heavily saturated in sweet and low. As he began to speak and shed light on this topic, he flipped the conversation to history and the lies we’ve all been told. Everything he was saying I was familiar with, however I could tell he was shocking the female that was sitting across from me. At this point I realized that she had become a lost cause for the moment since she was very enthralled by our new acquaintance. In the midst of the truths he was speaking, he rambled a great deal as if he couldn’t mainta in a single thought long enough to fully explain it. He then began to denounce the importance of money, however he bragged about the diamonds from exotic countries that he owned. He carried a paper bag that was pretty full. As he began to dig in it to as if to prove himself, he pulled out so called skins from different animals around the world. They were supposedly worth a great deal of money and he was carrying them since he was awaiting a business meeting.

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn :: Essays Papers

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn The novel begins with Huck himself writing the story. He briefly describes what has happened to him since "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer". Huck was adopted by the Widow Douglas and Miss Watson, both of whom took pains to raise him properly. Dissatisfied with his new life, Huck runs away. Tom Sawyer manages to bring Huck back by promising to start a band of robbers. However, many of them soon become bored with the make-believe battles and so the band falls apart. Pa returns to find Huck and his money. Judge Thatcher and the Widow try to gain court custody of Huck, but a new judge in town refuses to separate Huck from Pa. Huck soon decides to escape after Pa starts to frequently beat him. After running away Huck runs into his old friend Jim, who was Miss Walton's slave, before he decided to run away. Jim is frightened at first, believing Huck to be dead, but soon is happy to have a companion. The river starts rising, and at one point an entire house floats past the island. Huck and Jim climb aboard to see what they can salvage. They find a dead man lying in the corner of the house, and Jim goes over to look. Jim realizes that the dead man is Pa, and he carefully refuses to tell Huck who it is. Using a large raft, they float downstream during the nights and hide during the days. Jim and Huck continue floating downstream, becoming close friends in the process. Huck rescues two con-men named Huck and "the King". Farther down the river the King and Duke sell Jim into slavery. Huck decides to rescue Jim, and daringly walks up to the house where Jim is being kept. Luckily, the house is owned by none other than Tom Sawyer's Aunt Sally. Huck immediately pretends to be Tom. When Tom arrives, he pretends to be his younger brother Sid Sawyer. Together he and Huck contrive how to help Jim escape from his "prison," an outdoor shed. That night they get Jim and start to run away. The local farmers follow them. Huck, Jim, and Tom manage to escape, but Tom gets shot in the leg by a farmer.

Letter of Advice… Interpersonal Communication Essay

This a great article with good advice on how to communicate with your husband, wife or partner for the future. Without Communication there will not be a happy and long lasting result in a marriage. Within reading this article I was able to relate the knowledge with my own marriage of 5 long years. Learning how to communicate within listen as well as my tone and other forms to communicate has been susceptible for us. There has been along hard battle to fight through my ordeal, but the lessons of reading and responding with the actions have been very tolerable. I have had a very bad problem beening lonely after my children went to college and after I closed my business. Drawing more to my husband, I felt he was pulling away from me. There was not a day went by that I feel deeper in a depression without communicating that with him, I just assumed he would have noticed. Now after talking the problem out and with quality time as well things are much better. Being able to relate to â€Å"Many couples think they are communicating with each other†, they are wrong at times, because I was that person. Within the statement, â€Å"Romantic relationships begin with a lot of sharing and excitement, (Terri Orbuch) I feel this is very true, because that’s why you get married. But, as time goes on other things take place within priorities before you mate. I blame this on life sometimes. Self-disclosure really is an important key to having satisfaction in a marriage even or a relationship, because it is an act of verbally or nonverbally revealing information about you to others. Within revealing your true thoughts and self you may allow other people to know the â€Å"real you† and not your public personality, which often leads to building the relationship to higher levels of communication. Self-disclosure is what your spouse will be entitled to that knowledge. When it comes to gender differences, there really is a level of expression that women and men have to different. When you make a connection and are able to understand how interpersonal communication works, you are better able to express and reveal information about the inner you. I have noticed that my husband keeps a lot of things bottled up on the inside and I really try to get him to talk about things. But within recognizing my husband’s stand on issues, I don’t push too hard. Gender roles are even greater over the years as men and women both have trouble in expressing their feelings, but if we learn to communicate better things will be easier. After all, we just want to be loved and cared for by our spouse. Unfortunately, I believe I have loved, lost, and lived to love again through our time together. I believe with time, exploring, and the use of self-disclosure that my husband and I will find our way back to an exciting new beginning to share with our extended family through generalization. I fit into the category because many relationships are typical. All arguments and issue seems to be the same, only to be in a different scenario. Communication plays a valuable role in our relationships one that leads to a long-lasting and healthy marriage. Some good advice is to make the best of every opportunity while having fun and loving the person you are with right now.