Charles Murray Essay

The New Right came from the work of the American Sociologist Charles Murray who viewed welfare payments has causing lone parenthood which in turn created an underclass. Charles Murray visited the UK in 1989 and said it has a developing underclass. Murray said: â€Å"the underclass are defined by their behaviour. Their homes are littered and unkempt. The men in the family are unable to hold down a job. Drunkenness is common. The children grew up ill-schooled and ill-behaved and contribute to a disproportionate share of juvenile delinquents† Murray saw underclass as behaviour a lifestyle choice, a disease which infects certain groups of people. ‘When I use the term ‘underclass’ I am indeed focusing on a certain type of poor person defined not by his condition, for example, long-term unemployment, but by his deplorable behaviour in response to that condition, for example, unwilling to take jobs that are available to him.’ This shows how members of the underclass define themselves as different by their own behaviour. Murray singles out three forms of behaviour that define underclass status: * Parenting behaviour * Criminal behaviour * Labour market behaviour Specifically, it is illegitimate births to young women, habitual crime and particularly violent crime, and the refusal of young working class men to enter employment that determines the existence of an underclass. ‘If illegitimate births are the leading indicator of an underclass and violent crime a proxy measure of its development, the definitive proof that an underclass has arrived is that large numbers of young, healthy, low-income males choose not to take jobs. (The young idle rich are a separate problem).’ (Murray, 1990) Since, in his analysis, it is the poor themselves that are to blame for their poverty, because they either choose to act in a certain way, or are conditioned to do so by over-generous government welfare, the policy solutions that flow from this analysis are, not surprisingly, aimed at changing the behaviour of the poor. The alternative, improving the effectiveness of the welfare programmes, is not considered. Indeed for New Right theorists, the welf are state is a major part of the problem. What such theorists would seek is the dismantling of the welfare state, and a situation set up that would make it dysfunctional for individuals to act in deviant ways. David Marsland Sociologist David Marsland has adopted the new right approach and does not believe that poverty is as bad as others are making out. He claims that groups such as the Joseph Rowntree Foundation purposely confuse poverty with inequality and completely exaggerates the extent of poverty. He argues that there is only absolute poverty and that relative does not exist. Marsland is very critical about universal benefits and services such as health care, education and child benefits. He believes that people who are on low income are results of the state being too generous in their benefits and services rather than the individual’s inadequacy to work (Haralambos & Holborn, 2008). A quote from Marsland : â€Å"the expectation that society, the state, the government, â€Å"they†, will look after our problems tricks us into abdicating from self-reliance and social responsibly† (Marsland 1989). However, Marsland has been criticised by Bill Jordan who says that he is wrong to b lame the culture of dependency to universal welfare provision. He argues that selectively means testing benefits can trap people in a life of poverty. It often turns out that people are better off on benefits than they would be in work. It also can exclude the individual from the rest of society and make them feel ashamed and embarrassed that they receive benefits. Also, if education and health care are private then people with disability and unskilled workers may not be able to afford or find work. Jordan also claims that societies that rely upon means-tested benefits and private health care, tend to develop a large underclass, who have little chance of escaping from poverty; this is the case in countries such as America. Jordan states that poverty is a result of societies being too harsh. He argues that the only way to break the cycle of poverty is by universal benefits that are at a high enough standard so people can afford to work and get back up on their feet (Haralambos & Holborn, 2008). Despite this, the New Right approach has been influential across Western countries, and the Conservative party is in power in Britain today.

Historical Criticism of Anton Chekhov’s “The Lady with the Dog”

Russian short story writer and playwright Anton Chekhov's The Lady with the Dog (1899) is a brilliant exposition of how society's laws and institutions hinder an individual's quest for freedom and happiness (RadEssays, n. pag.). According to the poet and critic Dana Gioia, the style in which the short story was written was consistent with the emerging trends in nineteenth-century short story writing (Gioia, n. pag.).On one hand, it was based on the â€Å"anti-Romantic realism of Maupassant with its sharp observation of external social detail and human behavior conveyed within a tightly drawn plot† (Gioia, n. pag.). On the other, it also mirrored the â€Å"modern psychological realism of early Joyce in which the action is mostly internal and expressed in an associative narrative built on epiphanic moments† (Gioia, n. pag.). Hence, Gioia considered The Lady with the Dog, along with his later works, as a turning point in European literature (Gioia, n. pag.).The short story 's main character, Dmitri Dmitrich Gurov, was a man whose life was trapped early by society and the institution of marriage (RadEssays, n. pag.). During the 1900s, Russian society, just like all other societies, believed that marriage is a sacred institution (BookStove, n. n. pag.). To go against this norm (by committing adultery) meant facing social condemnation and ostracism (BookStove, n. pag.). However, Russia's upper classes only paid lip service to this rule – marriage for them was more of a convennient way to establish and secure fortunes and bloodlines (BookStove, n. pag.). Therefore, while they paraded themselves in public as respectable and happily-married people, they secretly engaged in extramarital affairs to temporarily escape the harsh reality of being trapped in a loveless marriage.Gurov was no exception. Although his real interest lay in the arts (he graduated with a degree in this field), he was forced to take up a â€Å"dignified† job in a bank (Chek hov, n. pag.). To make matters worse, his parents had set an arranged marriage for him with a woman he described as â€Å"unintelligent, narrow (and) inelegant† (Chekhov, n. pag.) – simply put, a woman he did not love. As a result, Gurov was miserable, â€Å"bored and and not himself†¦cold and uncommunicative (in the society of men)† (Chekhov, n. pag.).But feminist critcs argued that the real reason for the scorn he felt towards his wife was that she was an â€Å"outspoken woman who considers herself an intellectual† (Answers, n. pag.) – Gurov was intimadated with assertive women and preferred a woman whom he could control (Answers, n. pag.).Just like many other Russian upper-class men of his time, Gurov found solace in extramarital affairs (BookStove, n. pag.). For him, these liasons were more than just outlets for lust – they were manifestations of his protest against the society which condemned him to a â€Å"pitiable† existen ce (BookStove, n. pag.). Although Gurov openly labelled women as â€Å"the lower race† (Chekhov, n. pag.), he â€Å"could not get on for two days together† without them (Chekhov, n. pag.). His treatment of and philosophy towards women reflected the hypocrisy of Russian society with regard to the issues of love, marriage and infidelity (BookStove, n. pag.).Gurov came across an ally in his latest mistress, Anna Sergeyevna. Just like him, Sergeyevna was also a prisoner of her marriage – she got married young (20 years old), but soon regretted having done so (ECheat, n. pag.). She no longer loved her husband, regarding him as a â€Å"flunkey† (ECheat, n. pag.). In sharp contrast to Gurov’s wife, Sergeyevna was â€Å"soft and childlike, weepy and vulnerable, even a bit ‘pathetic’† (Answers, n. pag.) – the ideal Russian woman of the 1900s (Answers, n. pag.). Eager to live a single and uncommitted life once again, she feigned il lness and went to Yalta, a well-known health resort in Russia (Answers, n. pag.).Free from the unhappy situation of their respective families, Gurov and Sergeyevna carried out an illicit affair in Yalta (Answers, n. pag.). Although Sergeyevna initially felt guilty after Gurov kissed her for the first time, she was already in love with him by the time she returned to S (ECheat, n. pag.). Chekhov used symbolisms to decribe the intensity of their passion for one another. The moon, a timeless symbol of fertility, symbolized the birth of Gurov and Sergeyevna's affair (Openpapers, n. pag.). Sergeyevna's pet Pomeranian, meanwhile, represented the dependency, loyalty and amusement that they were looking for in their respective spouses, but found in one another (Paperstarter, n. pag.).When Gurov and Sergeyevna resumed their normal lives, it was then that they realized how much they missed and loved each other (ECheat, n. pag.). After meeting again in a theater, they decided to continue their clandestine affair. They secretly met in Moscow (Gurov’s hometown) â€Å"once in two or three months† (Chekhov, n. pag.).But Gurov and Sergeyevna eventually got tired of hiding like theives just to maintain their relationship. When they had their usual rendezvous at Sergeyevna’s room at the Slaviansky Bazaar hotel, they discussed â€Å"how to avoid the necessity for secrecy, for deception, for living in different towns and not seeing each other for long at a time† (Chekhov, n. pag.). But they were unable to come up with a clear solution (ECheat, n. pag.).Indeed, Gurov and Sergeyevna’s illicit liaison was a no-win situation. True, they had found real love in each other. But in a society that abhors relationships such as theirs, they were left with three options: run away, tell their respective spouses the truth or end the affair then and there (ECheat, n. pag.). Divorce was out of the question – in 1900s Russia, it was a social taboo, along with adultery (Answers, n. pag.). Divorced people were met with the same social denunciation and isolation bestowed on adulterers and adultresses (Answers, n. pag.). The open-ended conclusion added more credibility to the short story’s theme – the choice between being true to one’s self or adhering to what society believes to be correct.Chekhov’s other writings also echoed the animosity between an individual and society. In the short story Betrothed (1903), the protagonist, Nadya, was engaged to Andrey Andreyich, a man whom she didn’t love (Chekhov, n. pag.). She had no other choice – Russian women during the 1900s were not allowed to study or to work outside the home. Hence, marriage appeared to be Nadya’s only ticket to economic advancement (Eshbaugh, 3).But her perspective changed when Aleksander Timofeyich (fondly called â€Å"Sasha†) arrived from Moscow to visit her family. Upon learning of Nadya’s engagement to And reyich, Sasha warned her about the lifeless existence that is the result of an arranged marriage (Eshbaugh, 3).â€Å"Only enlightened and holy people are interesting, it's only they who are wanted. The more of such people there are, the sooner the Kingdom of God will come on earth†¦ Dear Nadya, darling girl, go away! Show them all that you are sick of this stagnant, grey, sinful life. Prove it to yourself at least (Chekhov, n. pag.)!†Despite Nadya’s initial misgivings, she heeded Sasha’s words. With his help, she fled to St. Petersburg, where she attended university (Eshbaugh, 3). Nadya eventually realized that she made the right decision in relying on herself instead of on marriage to achieve happiness (Eshbaugh, 3). Even her family ultimately supported her choice – their letters to her were â€Å"resigned and kindly, (as if) everything seemed to have been forgiven and forgotten† (Chekhov, n. pag.).Betrothed was â€Å"the last published work of Chekhov and thus his dying words to his literary audience† (Eshbaugh, 3). In a way, this explains its optimistic ending. If in The Lady with the Dog, Chekhov exposed the futility of society’s norms of â€Å"marriage for monetary gains (and) living an idle life without purpose and without love† (Eshbaugh, 3), in Betrothed, he imparted that if man can create society and the status quo, he can also change them.Works CitedChekhov, Anton. â€Å"The Betrothed.† 2008. Ibiblio.org. 11 March 2008 . Chekhov, Anton. â€Å"The Lady with the Dog.† 2008. Online-Literature. 11 March 2008 . Eshbaugh, Ruth. â€Å"Literary Analysis of The Lady with the Dog by Anton Chekhov.† 21 June 2007. AssociatedContent. 11 March 2008 . Gioia, Dana. â€Å"Anton Chekhov’s ‘The Lady with the Pet Dog’.† 1998. Dana Gioia Online. 11 March 2008 . â€Å"Anton Chekhov, ‘The Lady with the Dog’.† 2008. RadEssays.com. 11 March 2008 . â€Å"A Review of Lady with a Pet Dog by Anton Chekhov.† 4 July 2005. ECheat. 11 March 2008 . â€Å"The Lady with the Dog.† 11 July 2007. BookStove. 11 March 2008 . â€Å"The Lady with the Dog (Anton Chekhov).† 2007. PaperStarter. 11 March 2008 . â€Å"The Lady with the Dog by Chekhov.† 2008. Openpapers. 11 March 2008 . â€Å"The Lady with the Pet Dog (Criticism).† 2008. Answers.com. 11 March 2008 .

How Movies Portray History

I’ve always watched movies for the sole purpose of entertainment. Thinking about the historical backgrounds they entail never really crossed my mind. The way Hollywood portrays historical events in films isn’t very accurate, which some people see as a problem. After listening to both James Wermers & Dr. Chiltons presentations and reading The Art of War article my train of thought has changed on how films portray history. First, let’s consider the three perspective on the issue of how movies portray history.James Wermers had many opinions on filmography and history. According to him, producers have full rights to using history in fims. He believes that even though history is fair game to the film industry, movies don’t always portray historical events as accurate as they occur. He spoke about film producers use of CGI in movies and how it adds to a movies over all look. Even though CGI is a very clever use of computerized effects, it is not always used as i t should be.He stated, â€Å" CGI is no longer used for a certain effect, it is no longer the question of should we use it but how. † The reality of historical events isn’t always as accurate as it could be says Wermer but it is a good basis to a movie. Dr. Chilton had a political opinion on the matter. She stated that â€Å"filmmakers frequently use films to make statements, whether political or economic, or social, therefore, movies and their makers are protected by the First Amendment. † Whether or not we like how filmmakers are or portraying a specific event. they are entitled to portray it as they please. As Dr. Chilton reminds us, freedom of speech does not only refer to actually speech, it involves writing, sculptures, murals, and of course movies. In the Art of War article we see the artistic aspect of using CGI in films . Even though it states that a lot of the effects in the movie were very unrealistic that is also what made the movie so beautiful. It created this gorgeous scenery that could only be imagined but CGI made it possible to see.Even though the process of filming with CGI is a bit strange and hard to picture until the final product is shown, once you see everything put together it is amazing. After watching 300 and taking in all three of these aspects on movies portrayal of historical events my train of thought has changed immensely. I will now be more cautious as to what I’m actually watching. Is it actually true, is this really how things happened, and is that a real back drop or is it just CGI. I also now question the message movies contain. Instead of just watching to be entertained, I will now watch films with a lot of questions in mind.

One of the most important battles to fight is the right to know what Essay

One of the most important battles to fight is the right to know what is in our food - Essay Example The reason for the knowledge is imperative for determining a good well balanced life. Well-being is strongly supported by mental conditions. When one acknowledges food content, they ingest, a harmonization of psychology conditions together with the biological process following the food attribution to good health (Food Labeling - Consolidation Directive Agreed 1). Whether the food produced is organic or not should be captured in the label. Diseases and human health conditions are another reason manufacturers should label food. Allergies and reactions affect human with varying degrees and dietary supplements, and people should fight to push for labeling as a granted right. To avoid illness and stress setting into one’s life understanding content before they take is paramount. Moreover, financial constraints are becoming a must consider concern in acquiring the food people eat (Gatenby 350). Many eateries do not mind of the side effects of using given spices, components and supplements on the food prepared. Hence, a more reason people should demand to know what they pay for. Finances will be employed in the treatment or paying for food one may never use upon realizing the contents are not enough for their ingestion later (Westminster Food & Nutrition Forum Food Labeling Policy 1). Eating food is a daily must activity in order to be healthy. Business classes have not perceived the need to label the food. Consumer should not purchase food does is not labeled to send a clear message to manufacturers. Being the heart of the production by consuming, human beings should demand their right to understand what they are eating. It will prevent disease spread, financial planning, and psychological satisfaction. Doctors may help keep a tab of health improvement from what is eaten. Should the right to know the content supersede the act of consuming what

Wiki Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Wiki - Essay Example As far as the disadvantages are concerned, viruses are created that keep the capacity of infecting the information saved in a system. Moreover, it appears that people are getting away from physical exercises, as they are much involved I doing computerized tasks. I would like to have a fully computerized cell phone with the help of which, I can do all my computer related tasks. The movie that I have selected for the review of information technology is â€Å"GoldenEye†. It is one among the James Bond series and uses a lot of information technology such as computer systems, emailing, data management, information retrieval, online data access, digital photography and much more. James Bond uses computer accessories for accessing to information and the information that is also secret and confidential is accessed online by the villain of the story. James Bond along with some other characters are shown as mastering the technology but of course, James Bond is the best among them, as he can access all kinds of information that he needs. The technology that deals with the use of power such as the pen by which, a grenade can be set off is portrayed fantastically. James Bond’s movies are always welcoming new technologies and also showing ways for new technologies to come. The web resource for teaching Excel that I have selected is www.techonthenet.com. This resource informs in detail about the Excel and its usage. It informs about the functions and procedures on Excel. The function that I have learnt on internet because of this website is Excel: Min Function. The Min Function, according to the web resource is able to give the least value among many other values. For example, among 2, 4, 6, 2 is the minimum value and the Min Function will give that value. We can place the sign of â€Å"is equal to† that is â€Å"=† and then write Min, afterwards, we put braces. In the braces, we have to give the numbers from

Analysis of a Business Narrative Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Analysis of a Business Narrative - Essay Example Both, Baidu and Google history describes the story of their origins. However, narrative style adapted to describe their history of origination by both companies, is quite different (Reissman, 1993). It is very important for any narrative to have a plot, a central idea, theme on which the entire construction of narration relies. The plot for business narratives can change according to the customer’s response and needs for that particular company. For example, if a company wants to build an emotional connection with its customers, it will try to make the narrative empathetic and would demonstrate the understanding of emotional, social and cultural values. Similarly, if a company emphasizes on the product, it will focus on its product development procedure and how that product can help provide the consumers with the solutions they want (Fritz, 2008). By keeping the above mentioned key point. Baidu search engine narrative and Google timeline is analyzed. Baidu narrative chooses an emotional plot. It shows cultural connection through one of the poem of the Song Dynasty. Then it further describes, as to how this search engine is best suited to the Chinese people as it is sensitive to the various nuances of the Chinese language. Consequently, Google narrative also builds an emotional connection with its consumers, but the style varies. ... The way the story of Google’s initial years is written, it develops a sense of familiarity for American youth. Almost every university student and graduate in America can identify the sentiments for aims, fears, and unleashed zeal to achieve targets and to find a person who shares the same dream as yours and who works along to fulfill those dreams. The story for Google tells the consumer how this conglomerate was started as a university project by two students, who were no different than the average student today. Thus, it develops a relation of similarity with it users by describing the originators as average students. The timeline mentions every person who has been associated with Google in its initial years, even the cook. This shows the emphasis on the element of respect and contribution for even the smallest participation by people who chose to believe in the company at a time when there was no guarantee of success. By telling the story of its inception in a simple manner and recognizing the input of every person, Google conveys the idea of valuing its employees and their contribution even if it’s of a meager kind. Thus, Google considers its employees as an asset, which are important enough to be mentioned in its history. The company conveys the idea of following one’s dream, even if there are numerous hardships and obstacles along the way. The story of Google is a perfect example of how a small startup, which started in a garage, has now become the world’s largest search engine. The company went against the odds, and even though there was competition present in the form of Yahoo and MSN, Google still managed to create a place for itself. Google’s startup and its values represent American culture from which

Health Risks and Benefits Associated with Energy Drinks Essay

Health Risks and Benefits Associated with Energy Drinks - Essay Example Unfortunately, due to the interchangeable use of the words â€Å"sports drinks†, and â€Å"energy drinks†, these young consumers are exposing themselves to the adverse effects of overindulging in the latter. In addition, the lax regulatory policies also make it easier for younger consumers to access energy drinks. In response, some institutions have called for stringent regulations that prohibit the sale of such products in schools. Discussed below are the health risks and perceived benefits associated with intake of energy drinks.   One of the main ingredients used to make energy drinks is caffeine. Caffeine is a highly addictive substance; as such, its use in the manufacturing of any food or beverage is likely to result in users’ addiction to the consumed substances. There are two major categories of energy drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic energy drinks. A high percentage of consumers of energy drinks are unaware of the adverse health risks associated with the consumption of non-alcoholic energy drinks, as they operate under the assumption that the alternative form (alcoholic energy drinks) poses a greater danger. Research by various scholars contradicts this assumption stating,†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦caffeine’s neuropharmacology effects might play a role in the propensity for addiction† (Arria & O’Brien 2012, p.601). Reissig et al. (2009, p. 4-6) postulate that lack of regulatory oversight resulting from lax regulatory requirements especially in countries such as the US increases childr en and adolescents’ vulnerability to developing caffeine related disorders, which include caffeine intoxication.

Use of Electronic Monitoring to Measure Employee Productivity Case Study

Use of Electronic Monitoring to Measure Employee Productivity - Case Study Example Nevertheless, these systems and tools have promoted intrusion into the private lives of employees by both the profession and the employer. Many organizations have opted to use electronic monitoring to track employee productivity and analyze their electronic communication. The issue of electronic monitoring intrusion into employee’s privacy has sparked a major debate between the employers and employee advocates. This paper will discuss the contemporary issues in the use of electronic monitoring by companies to assess employee productivity. Advancement in information technology: Technological growth has facilitated accurate collection and storage of a great pool of personal information usually without the permission or knowledge of the employee concerned, and whether such information is necessary for business functions. The organizations collect personal information for reasons of evaluation of employee performance,security,and protection from lawsuits among others. Nevertheless, the privacy laws are not robust enough to shield employees from intrusion (Watt, 2009). Currently, employees of private corporations in the United States lack legal protection against abusive practices of e-mail monitoring. Therefore, American employers can freely intercept, seek, and read any messages stored on the hard drives of employee’s computer.... This is attributable to the rising incidences of cyber loafing and litigation. Employers believe that their employees will comply with existing organizational benchmarks for behavior when constantly monitored. However, this has resulted to the development of perception of intrusiveness into private life by employees. In the United States, the anxiety about the stock market and concerns about safety of families makes employees seek the latest information from the Internet in the workplace (Rurhsani, 2005). Only under special circumstances would employers put up with excessive use of the internet for activities other than job although they feel that it can lower their performance. Organizations are increasingly demanding the individual employee’s personal information. In spite of enactment of legislation attempting to resolve the issue of privacy, debate is still raging over the ethical issues with regard to the privacy rights. Lack of rational regulation of such monitoring woul d significantly affect employee’s privacy rights (Mujtaba, 2003; Rustad & Paulsson, 2005). Besides loss in productivity and liabilities involved with employee’s cyber loafing, companies are worried about the sending out of sensitive and secretive information to their competitors, vendors, suppliers, and customers by mischievous employees (Rustad & Paulsson, 2005). Incidences have been reported of employees sharing company’s confidential information and trade secrets with outside employees or friends using an employer’s email system. Moreover, some employees have been found to use an employer’s Internet to initiate or operate their own business while working. Lawsuits may result due to employers being held responsible for employee’s misuse of the internet

Harford Bicycle Planning Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Harford Bicycle Planning - Assignment Example Hull consists of a population of 262,000 individuals with a near 50/50 gender ratio. No particular cycling habits were identified through studies pertaining to very regionalized cultural habits in Hull. It is an understanding that certain geographical features and inherent landscape motivations will determine some consumer behaviour, however without this data this marketing function seeks for mass market appeal via a systematic IMC campaign. In this city, the infrastructure for this activity is present, the motivations and incentives are a missing component. Using valid concepts of human behaviour, target markets were identified as subsections: Since no identifiable model of consumer target characteristics could be identified, this segmentation approach represents a modified acknowledgement of the FCB Planning Model and the Elaboration Likelihood Model of consumer decision-making. Taking into assessment the history and structure of Hull, these markets coincide with the geographical proximity of Halford’s product distributors and can be targeted through mass-focused communications over a systematic time period. The concept is not about making comparable difference claims about Halford’s internal brand reliance and partnerships, positioning Halford’s is identifying its strengths and weaknesses that are most likely to be present in the local environment. Halford’s currently refers to itself as much like a distributor when referring to its product selection, thus making it competitive through its product. Halford’s requires a repositioning during this summer period that gives the business a personified image. It is choice of quality positioning as a lifestyle leader for key markets with a supplementary identity as a premier sales organization. Quality. It speaks a different language depending on the target

SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND PUBLIC POLICY-CASE STUDIES IN POLICY PowerPoint Presentation - 1

SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND PUBLIC POLICY-CASE STUDIES IN POLICY DECISION - PowerPoint Presentation Example However, an analysis of the economic and implications to the industry indicate that the project was a worthy venture. In addition, international pressure, technological and issues pertaining to foreign policy indicated that the project was worthwhile. In looking at the procedures followed in estimating the cost of producing the TSR-2 planes there is the realization that budgeting was a major problem. The budgeting process might have been a bad note to begin a project of this caliber, but one still needs to understand that the project was fairly new and the details were still hazy. The BAC Company gave the government a fairly good deal of  £ 625 million but the government’s final offer stood at  £ 620 million. The general realization is that there were many problems that had already been associated with the project other than the cost that influenced its final cancellation. The over-politicization and concentration on the problems overshadowed the long term economic benefits of the project. For instance, the fact that the Australians opted for the America F111 did not imply that they were not ready to buy the TSR-2. TSR-2 was superior technologically and maybe the Australians wanted a better deal with better terms. For instance, the Australians could have been allowed to test the TSR-2 using their own pilots in British Soil. The TSR-2 project also happened at a time when the government had placed strict regulations governing military expenditure. In addition, the bureaucracy created by the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Supplies presented numerous challenges for the project at different stages; these factors only magnified the already evident skeptism surrounding the project. The government was looking at the amount of revenue that would be immediately saved and perhaps channeled in other areas instead of concentrating on the long term benefits of the project. However, the number of jobs

Hippie Culture Essay Example for Free

Hippie Culture Essay Few social movements marked the twentieth century in the United States as the protest movement of the 1960s. However, despite the scope and scale of such a wide movement that encapsulated so many different peoples and causes, including voting rights, women’s rights, civil rights, and ending the war in Vietnam, the movement is better known by a stereotype of the type of people that seemed so instrumental in perpetuating the movement: hippies. Though the great majority of those in the protest movement were not hippies, the movies, music, and cultural events that marked the times were dominated by hippie culture, and few events represented this fact as the stereotype-reinforcing Woodstock Music Festival. By the time Woodstock happened in 1969, the hippie movement was already something that had been growing the entire decade and most people who were not hippies had a good idea what a hippie was. If one would have to describe a hippie then, it could be said to be a young man or woman that was dirty, hairy, unemployed, and on drugs. While these are only a few attributes ascribed to a few hippies, the stereotypes became so strong that they were hard to remove from the other significant contributions they made, including in music, art, culture, and social awareness. So, while hippies were far more complex than most people chose to see them, they were pigeonholed to the stereotype of spoiled middle-class kids with too much time and freedom, and who refused to do their patriotic duties as their mothers and fathers had done before them, most specifically by starting families and fighting in the country’s wars. However, the decade leading up to Woodstock only helped reinforce many of these stereotypes. Hippie culture could have been said to begin the words and ideas of the Beat writers such as Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, and others. These writers laid the foundation for the rebellious, anti-establishment ideals that would come to be so strongly embraced by the hippie culture during the 1960s. However, it would be Bob Dylan, who was strongly influenced by the Beats, who would use their ideas in his folk music. Dylan’s popularity not only made folk music popular, but his songwriting also tackled many of the issues of the time, including war, civil rights, and the basic questions of whether America was heading in the right direction, and if not, why. Dylan’s music influenced the songwriting of almost every major recording artist that came after him, or at least any that achieved any amount of success. Through Dylan and those he influenced, music became the first defining characteristic of hippie culture, showing a long history of music defining cultural movements and times through its almost religious effect on those that listen to it. Religious forces, like art, music, and everything that inspires classification as sacred, Emile Durkheim (1965) writes: â€Å"do not translate the manner in which physical things affect our senses, but the way in which the collective consciousness acts upon individual consciousnesses† (1965, p. 254). Music has the ability to act as a symbol of this collective consciousness, bringing the masses together to celebrate a shared philosophy or perspective. While many contend that art and music is nothing more than an escape from the everyday anxieties that life offers up, it is far more than that. Similar to the sacred in religion, which Durkheim asserts is not rooted in fear as humanist and existentialist theorists claim, but in the idealism of the collective mentality, music becomes sacred when presented in a way that appeals to the individual and the collective. Music and those who perform it act in ways similar to religious totems, representing the ideals of the collective and how they inhabit the individual, and take their roots in exhalation and celebration. According to Durkheim, â€Å"In fine, the sentiments at the root of totemism are those of happy confidence rather than terror and compression† (1965, p. 56). Music became the inspiration for hippie culture and gave them the confidence to fight back against ideals they saw as wrong, including the Vietnam War. There was no better representation of this than Woodstock. The Woodstock Music Art Festival that took place on a farm near Woodstock, New York, August 15 through August 18, 1969 not only assembled some of the greatest rock, pop, and folk musicians of the day, but also had a half million enthusiastic young and old fans celebrating life and music in a concert that changed the way the younger generation was viewed. After Woodstock, the burgeoning counter culture exploded into the mainstream, as the entire United States realized that the hippie culture was a force that could not be ignored, and its icons such as The Who, Crosby, Stills, and Nash, and Jimi Hendrix reinforced many of the stereotypes of long hair, reckless behavior, and sexuality. Woodstock would become a legendary orgy of drug use, sexual intercourse, nudity, and mud, but also of peace, love, and a general togetherness that also characterized hippie culture. Another popular stereotype was the hippie general disregard for all authority, and Woodstock was no different. Over one-hundred thousand tickets had been sold to the event, but soon fans were crashing over fences and simply began streaming in to see the show (Woodstock. com, 2009). However, there were very few incidents of violence and the festival went on to become one of the iconic points in the culture of the 1960s. It also marked the beginning of the end of hippie culture. Woodstock was the last hurrah for a generation of young men and women that did their best to rebel against the previous generations and create their own persona. Unfortunately, stereotypes were rich and long concerning hippie culture, and Woodstock did well to encourage both the good and bad stereotypes. They displayed their amazing music and free-loving culture, but also their drug abuse and contentment with filth. By the time the 1970s began, hippie culture was all but dead, even though many of the hippies continued to live on. Today, hippies are seen as largely a joke and very superficial, which may speak of their ultimate failure to live up to their own ideals. The country is still largely conservative in many regards, still refuses many of the ideals of peace and love that the hippies inspired, and is still at war with foreign countries. Hippies are now seen in modern form as environmentalists, annoying activists for un-American or unethical causes, potheads or vegetarians. Hippies are no longer seen as a viable threat to the conservative ideals of the United States, and have in essence become all style and no substance. While stereotypes helped perpetuate the romantic notion of the idealistic hippie, they just as equally helped destroy a notion that never really existed in the first place.

Youth Counseling Essay Example for Free

Youth Counseling Essay The mental and well being of adolescences is issue that has become very important in todays society. When mental health issues are left untreated in the lives of adolescents, this can lead to a number of negative and life changing consequences that will over time debilitate bother the youth and their family. Adolescence is a period in time of physical, emotional, and spiritual growth. Adolescences is divided into three phases: the early stage which is 10 years old to 13 years old and during this stage their will be sudden physical changes in the body because of the onset of puberty. The next phrase is the middle stage which is ages 14 to 16 and during this time in the onset of peer pressure and acceptance. The final stage is the late stage and age group is from 17 to 21. During this time the youth is transiting from being a teenager to becoming an adult. The years are marked by years colleges, the increase on making decisions, and becoming independent. Miller Rollnick, 2002) According to research, during these years the adolescent have several concerns, for instance, privacy, finding friends, being popular, surviving peer pressure, body image, academic pressure from school, dealing siblings, concerns about their futures, and issues in the family. (Miller Rollnick 2002) With all this these concerns of adolescents, it all trigger positive and negative mood swings, stress, depression, risk taking behavior, and acting out. Counseling adolescence during these stages in life be both challenging and rewarding. Adolescent Counseling: Preventive Health One of biggest counseling concerns for adolescences is preventive health counseling. The leading cause for adolescent death is accidents, homicide and suicide. (Stephens, 2006) In addition morbidity is also related to tobacco, drug, and alcohol use, engaging in risky sexual behavior, lack of physical activity and not eating right. According to the American Academy of Physicians, one third of all adolescence engage in some sort of risky behavior. The question has been asked why provided preventive health counseling to adolescence. The following are a widespread of serious and costly adolescence health issues that are preventable: unplanned pregnancies, sexual transmitted diseases, violence, committing suicide, and the use of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. A study indicates that that about 25% to 30% of adolescences have been considered to be at risk of serious health outcomes based on risky behavior by the teen. Downs Klein, 1995) It is every common for adolescences to participate in more than one risky behavior because there is a rapid physical, cognitive and emotional development that this age and also many health and mental health arise during this time. According to research, some of the challenges in Adolescent health care are the lack of health insurance and the youth does not have a primary care physician. One study states that adolescences see physicians less that all the other age groups and about 73% of adolescents see a physician at least once a year. Center of Disease Control and Prevention, 2005) Adolescences view the physician as good source to get credible information but many times they are reluctant about informing the doctor about their health issues to due to the confidentially issues. (Akinbami, Gandhi, Cheng, 2003) It is important that doctors and counselor both develop a specific and written confidentially policy in their offices that will help assure the adolescent and parent that issues that are discussed in sessions will not be disclose without their consent. Providing preventive counseling to adolescences can be very difficult, this type of counseling is essential for all youth. (Millstein, Petersen, Nightingale, 1993) It is virtual when providing health counseling, the clinician should be provide a comfortable and confidential place and ask question relevant that will help the clinician identify adolescences who may be at risk for or engaging in risky behavior that will compromise their health. Providing health counseling at the this age is common in adolescences. Merenstein, Green, Fryer, Dovey, 2001) In some studies, it is suggest that professional guidelines are implemented to help improve the delivery of preventive healthcare information to adolescences. (Ozer, Adams, Lusting, Gee, Garber, Garnder, 2005) In preventive health counseling, it has been suggested the counselor or physician should do the following in the screening process: (1) Address the patient with direct and open minded questions. (2) Be an attentive listener and do not interpret the youth while they are talking. 3) Watch all non verbal communication, such as body position, eye movement, and posture. (4) Do not judge the adolescent by their appearance. (5) When the youth maybe using slang, please ask the youth to give and explanation. (Stephens, 2006) Many clinicians think that it is important to add preventive care to their practices. ( U. S. Public Service, 1998) Implementing Preventive Health Counseling is important. Physical Activity and nutrition are preventive health measure that adolescences would receive counseling for. For instance, many clinicians encourage their patients to engage in physical activity at least 30 minutes a day and this will help reduce diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia (National Center of Health Statics, 2004) In the sessions, nutrition is also discussed. The youth is asked about their eating habits and how they can improve them. The adolescent would be advised by the clinician to change their diet and consume 5 servings of fruit and vegetables every day and limit their sugar intake. (U. S. Department of Agriculture, 2005) Sexual education is also another preventive measure that used. According to research, there are specific counseling recommendations when it comes to educating adolescences regarding sex. There will be discussion on sexual activity, the number partners, contraceptive use and any history of STDs. (Hedberg, Bracken, Stashwick, 1999) Some counselor use the five A’s strategy when working with adolescences that have tobacco addiction issues and the 5 A’s strategy is ask, advise, assess, assist, and arrange. (Stephens, 2006) Environmental factors in adolescent counseling is not often discussed but it is very important. Preventive counseling for environment factors such include the following not riding the someone who is under the influence of any type of drug or alcohol, do not text and drive, use helmets when riding bicycles, and wearing your seat belt when riding in a car. (Stephen, 2006) Chan Witherspoon (1998) states in their article that preventive health counseling has shown to successful with adolescences with risky behavior. For example, â€Å"Adolescents linked to school based clinic and on campus counselors and health education classes had profound effect on the teen pregnancy rate. College student that completed a risk appraisal questionnaire and that was follow up with feedback was less likely to use tobacco products. (Chan Witherspoon, 1998). There another studies that show that adolescences that received preventive health counseling decreased their risky behavior. (Gans, Alexander, Chu, Elster 1995) Adolescent Counseling: Depression Family Counseling Depression is a treatable condition for adolescents. Depression in the adolescent stage is a significant cause of morbidty for adolescences. (Stephens, 2006) Out 20 adolescents many of the youth show signs of clinical depression. Psychological treatments, drug therapy, and other measures can help alleviate symptoms and help the teen over come depression. † (Morland Bonin, 2013) Some physicians will consider screening a youth for depression if the exhibit the following signs: anger, guilt, missing school, and failing grades. (Son, Kirchner 2000) Researcher stated that treatment of depression is very successful for teen when the parents are involved in the counseling. Family education about depression is a very important components when treating a teens for depression. Ma Stafford 2005) Moreland and Bonin (2013) provided information on how to understand depression and its affects on the moods, thoughts, and behavior can help the teen and their deal with depression in different ways: family members learn about he symptoms of depression and how this will affect the family dynamic and the family will also be educated on how to provide a safe environment for depressed teens. When counseling a treat depression for a adolescent, psychological treatments and talk therapy will help teach the patient and their family to understand what the nature of depression. This will include how to deal with low moods, engage in productive and positive behavior, how manage and maintain relationships with family and friend, how to make wise decisions, problem solving skills, and how to deal with stressful situations that may associate with depression. (Morland and Bonin, 2013) The counseling session will last about 30 to 60 minutes per week with a training therapist. Throughout the session the youth will talk about his or his feelings, emotions, thoughts, and behavior. The counselor and the youth will discuss alternative ways on dealing and coping with depressive symptoms. Morland and Bonin, 2013) When dealing with a adolescent that is in a depressive state, the therapist/counselor needs to have the appropriate training. When a family and choosing a therapist/counselor, it is important that they should consider the person’s education, training and experience with adolescents. (Ma Stafford, 2005) For example, the following questions that family could ask the therapist: :†What type of training or experience do you have treating depression in adolescents? † â€Å"Will the family members be included in some aspect of the treatment? If so, how? (Morland and Bonin, 2013) Another component to the counseling, the youth can be prescribed medication to help deal with depression. Adolescent Counseling: Suicide Suicide in one of leading causes to the mortality in adolescents. (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2000) There are some risk factors that contribute to suicide in adolescents: they are abusing drugs and alcohol, history of depression, and having problems at home and in school. (Bukstein, Brent, Perper, Mortiz, Baugher, Schweers, 1993) According to research, when a youth is having trouble dealing with at difficult situation, they may consider suicide. Another component that leads to teen suicide, is that they have easy access to firearms, drugs, alcohol and cars. According statics, about 30% of teen suicides will involve a firearm and all firearm-related that occur with teens, about 80% are suicides. (Rao, Birmaher, Dahl, Williamson, Kaufman, 1995) There are always warning signs regarding suicide. The signs do not appear just out of the blue. For instance, when a youth withdraws from his family and friends, neglect their personal appearance, they believe speak about being hopelessness, eating habits change, their behavior becomes violent, these just a few warning signs. â€Å"More obvious signs that an adolescent many be suicidal include low self-esteem, and self deprecating remarks. Some teens come right out and talk and write about their suicidal thoughts. † (Hawton, K. , Heeringen, K. (2000). These actions need to be taken seriously and not ignored and help should immediate because these are cries for help. When seeking treatment for suicidal adolescents, it is very important to seek professional help such guidance counselors in schools, crisis centers, or even a pastor. It has been noted that often youth in a depressive state committee suicide. A professional can help by doing the following when dealing a youth that is suicidal: â€Å"An objective, caring listener who can share other more hopeful sides of the picture, help in determining what needs to be changed, finding solutions that arent as permanent as suicide, help to identify the resources needed for these changes, medication for depression when appropriate and Hospitalization a safe place to regain energy and work on problems. † (Hawton, K. , Heeringen, K. (2000). Ethical and legal Issues Related to Counseling Adolescents When counseling adolescents, it is very important to many sure that all ethical and legal guidelines are followed. According to the American Counseling Association, confidentiality, counselor competence, reporting abuse and neglect, and informed consent all require special consideration when counseling adolescents. The ethical and legal conflicts when dealing confidentiality. In some states, the law requires that a counselor maintain the confidentiality of the youth as young as 12 in a school setting; However, in a counseling setting the parents have legal right to all information disclosed in a session regarding child until the age of 18. Ethical codes advise counselors to maintain confidentiality as specified by federal and state laws, but parental rights are upheld by law in most states. † (Herlihy Corey 2006) According to Standard A. 2. a â€Å"all client have the right to inform consent and the freedom to decided to enter and remain in therapy after understanding their rights and responsibilities as well as the responsibilities of the counselor. † (ACA, 2005) When resolving a conflict in counseling, the parents must understand that confidentiality as it applies to their child therapy. Problems arise when a child discloses information in a session that they do not want shared with their parents. But if for some reason the counselor thinks that they child is not danger, it is necessary for the counselor to disclose that information to the parent. But the counselor can use discretion when share this information to the parent. (Lawerence and Kurpius, 2000) When trying to resolve this conflict, the counselor should encourage the adolescent to share information with their parent with the assistance of the counselor. However, if the adolescent is refusing to disclose information to the parent, the counselor needs to try to explain to the youth why it is important to share this information with the parent. (Herlihy Corey 2006) The related code according to ACA Standard B. 2. a â€Å"requires a breach of confidentiality when a the counselor believes such disclousure will protect the client from serious and foreseeable harm. In the case of reporting child abuse, federal and state laws require such reporting by mental health counselors and health professionals. (ACA, 2005) According to law is not a specific competence when come to counseling adolescents. Mental health counselors should have prior education, training, and experience as described in the ACA (2005). The related ethical code in the ACA (2005) Standard c. 2. a states â€Å"that counselors should understand the practice within the boundaries of their knowledge and experience and should not hold themselves out to providing services of which they are not appropriately trained. According to Lawerence and Kurpuis (2000), they stated that inform consent is an agreement between the client and the counselor for the start of therapy and this falls under the jurisdiction of contract law, and in most cases when providing a service to a minor the contact is between the parent the counselor.. The related ethincal code according to ACA Standard A. 2. D states ‘counseling a minor, the counselor must obtain inform consent from the parents or the legal guardian prior to starting therapy with a minor. †

Adequacy of Strong Improvement to Explain RAP

Adequacy of Strong Improvement to Explain RAP CASE STUDY OF APPROACH TO CONSIDER UNCERTAIN COMPONENTS FAILURE RATES IN SERIES-PARALLEL RELIABILITY SYSTEMS WITH REDUNDANCY ALLOCATION Abstract The principle reason for this review is to demonstrate the adequacy of strong improvement to explain RAP. The erlang distribution is used to implement robust optimization. The dynamic values attained by the failure rate is found to be a correct one. Another computation technique is introduced to consider dynamic qualities for failure rate in RAP. Also, because of complex redundancy Allocation Problem, two Simulated Annealing (SA) and Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) calculations are intended to decide the strong framework regarding indeterminate qualities for parameters. Another presumption is that every subsystem can have dynamic excess systems. Keeping in mind the end goal to take care of this issue and demonstrate effectiveness of proposed calculations, an issue in writing is unraveled and talked about. INTRODUCTION of Articles The planning for a system to select the components simultaneously is called the Redundancy Allocation Problem. Here these components are joined by several types to maximize the system reliability including all the properties in the system which are obtained. The reliability range should be maximum for different products to design the best system for a problem. The series parallel system can be of three types such as reliability allocation, redundancy allocation, and reliability redundancy allocation. For the first type the reliability limit is reduced for the usage of the resources in components reliability. The other type contains the redundancy limit to increase the reliability of the system to maximize the system level constraints. The failure rate of every components is studied on the journal articles which were in a determinable surrounding. The failure rate is very difficult to determine to be a exact one in practical environment for various factors as it may vary. The failure rates under various factors are affected. The failure rates arent any specified values in this article. The robust optimization is used to solve the reliability allocation problem for failure rates. In this article, the robustness with the redundancy allocation problem is explained and the mathematical model is developed. There are two algorithms used to find the indeterminate qualities for the parameters. The Simulated Annealing and Ant Colony Optimization algorithm is used and tested by the problem. Nomenclature i : index of subsystems where i à ¯Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ½1,2,,si . ni: number of components used in subsystem i . nià ¯Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ­Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  :set of components used in all subsystems expect subsystem ri,zi (t) : reliability of component i z for subsystem i at time t à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬i,zi, Ki,zi : scale and shape parameters for the Gamma distribution of component i z in subsystem i à ¯Ã‚ Ã‚ ¬i,zi(ni, ni-) : function of robust failure rate for component i z in subsystem i . C,W : system level constraint limits for cost and weight, respectively. R(t; z,n) : system reliability at time t for designing vectors z and n . Explanation of the work presented in journal articles ROBUSTNESS DEFINITION IN RELIABILITY ALLOCATION PROBLEM To maximize the total reliability of a robust system the following assumptions are considered Components failure rate are changed as a result of change in system structure The constraints of the problem are predetermined for any changes in system structure. The total components in the subsystem is increasing when we consider the failure rate of this component The increase in the reliability of the component is caused by the decreased failure rate. THE ROBUST MODEL IN RELIABILITY ALOCATION PRROBLEM It is conceivable to execute two unique systems for parts of subsystems in Reliability allocation problem. The first is dynamic methodology in which every single repetitive part will begin to work at the same time from time zero. Interestingly, there are three unique variations of the cool, warm and hot methodologies rather for the second technique which is known as standby technique. In warm variation and in contrast with cool one, it would be more conceivable that segments flop before beginning to work on system. In the event that we utilize hot variation, it would not be essential that segments are working or they are sit and their failure rates will be consistent any way. As indicated by these definitions, we can create same numerical model for two unique techniques of hot standby and dynamic repetition. The repetitive parts are consecutively utilized as a part of the system at segment failure times and each repetitive segment in the standby system can be worked just when it is e xchanged on. At the point when the segment in operation falls flat, one of the excess units is changed on to proceed with the system operation. The 1, 2 and 3 equations are as follows 4 5 As per these derivations, a model is introduced in which failure rates will be computed in light of condition (5). This condition helps us to consider new failure rate values instead of steady ones. In addition, these new proposed qualities are more down to earth for genuine issues and will help fashioners to reduce existent crevices amongst hypothesis and practice. Then again, we cover the existent deficiencies which have never been focused on in the writing by building up another technique to compute failure rates. The robust relations are solved by the two algorithms Simulated and Ant Colony Optimizing for the redundancy allocation problem. Discussion of Contributions SIMULATED ANNEALING ALGORITHM FOR RAP Simulated Annealing is a standout amongst the most well-known probabilistic meta-heuristics to locate an adequate answer for advancement issues which was essential proposed by Kirkpatrick, Gelatt and Vecchi. This calculation depends on the relationship between the way toward tempering of solids and the arrangement philosophy of combinatorial advancement issues. One the most essential invaluable of the SA is keeping from rapidly focalizing to nearby ideal arrangement. This normal for SA is multiplied by tolerating better arrangements as well as the more regrettable neighbor arrangements with a specific likelihood to escape from a nearby ideal. It is observable that the likelihood of tolerating a more regrettable arrangement relies on upon the estimation of temperature; thus, while the temperature diminishes, the likelihood of tolerating a more terrible arrangement diminishes too. ANT COLONY OPTIMIZING ALGOROTHM FOR RAP Truly, ACO was firstly presented by Dorigo, Maniezzo and Colorni [3]. Key thought of subterranean insect frameworks depends on conduct of characteristic ants that prevail to discover most limited way from their home to nourishment sources by imparting by means of an aggregate memory that comprises of pheromone trails. Ants have a tendency to take after a way with a high pheromone level when numerous ants move in a typical range and they move arbitrarily when no pheromone is accessible. Then again, ants dont pick their bearings in light of level of pheromone only, but instead consider nearness of home and sustenance source, individually. Discussion of Dificiency and Potential Improvements The improvements to be made on this article are to solve large sized problems the heuristic algorithms were not developed and the flexible model to consider the dynamic values can be improved. An another development to be made is to show a robust model for selecting different types of parts simultaneously. The graphical theory could be used to develop by a new model Summary In this review, a nonlinear numerical model is produced for powerful arrangement parallel system with excess portion issue where, it has never been focused on strong enhancement approaches for this issue. In this model, we show another technique to compute part failure rates which is more versatile to genuine issues. Additionally, we create two reproduced tempering and insect province streamlining calculations which brought about proper arrangements, speedily. The last outcomes demonstrate that ACO calculation can bring about happier arrangements in contrast with SA calculation. There are three major advantages of robust model, The first is that utilizing this model will help us to create adaptable arrangements which are more functional to cover deficiencies amongst hypothesis and practice. The second one is that this model produces arrangements with higher framework dependability as opposed to those ones which have been displayed in writing. At last, the third one is that the created arrangements will be powerful and by changing the conditions, they can even now be proper arrangements which are near ideal arrangements. References [1]Ali Ghafarian Salehi Nezhada,*, Abdolhamid Eshraghniaye Jahromib, Mohammad Hassan Salmanic, Fereshte Ghasemid, an approach to consider uncertain components failure rates in series-parallel reliability systems with redundancy allocation.International Journal of Industrial Engineering (2016) [2] S. Kirkpatrick, C.D.J. Gelatt, M.P. Vecchi, Optimization by simulated annealing, Science. 220 (1983), pp.671-680 [3]M. Dorigo, V. Maniezzo, A. Colorni, Positive feedback as a search strategy, Technical Report. (1991). [4]D.W. Coit, A.E. Smith, Optimization Approaches to the Redundancy Allocation Problem for Series-Parallel Systems, Cited as Proceedings of the Fourth Industrial Engineering Research Conference. (1995).

William Shakespeares Measure for Measure Essay -- Shakespeare measure

William Shakespeare's Measure for Measure The desires of the characters in Shakespeare’s Measure For Measure are not entirely clear, and are made ambivalent and ambiguous by the use of their language. Particularly in 3.1.52-153, when Isabella visits Claudio in prison, ambiguous lines and puns make it unclear whether Isabella desires Claudio’s death and whether he truly desires to be free of sin. These desires were further convoluted by viewing the current Folger Theatre production of the play. "Trade" (151) is one pun which illuminates ideas about Claudio's desires. Taken to mean an exchange, Isabella insinuates that Claudio's sin and death are like the title of the play, a measure taken for a measure, or rather a punishment that fits the crime. However, Freud's notion of the compulsion to repeat is evoked when the word is taken to mean a habit. Isabella insinuates Claudio's perpetual sinning earlier when she comments that Claudio's freedom would "offend [Angelo] still" (99) by continuing his behavior. The concept of the death drive as a desire to return to the womb also emerges when Isabella warns Claudio that accepting Angelo's offer "Would bark your honour from that trunk you bear / And leave you naked" (70-71), the image of debarking a tree becoming a form of regression. Claudio's response that he would "encounter darkness as a bride / And hug it in [his] arms" (82-3) is wholly ambivalent and ambiguous. It could be a straightforward admission to his desire for death, also showing that he readily accepts his punishment. Additionally falling under Freud's philosophy, it could instead be an admission of his compulsion to repeat: he would make love to death as his bride, just as he did to Juli... ... truly became emotional during his 15 line speech about the uncertainty of death. He was spotlighted during this passage, making it more like a soliloquy and therefore more honest. The audience was privy to his real fear of death and his desire to live, but then his pathetic supplication on his knees made my desire for him to die increase. What sin he refers to is of course unclear in the text as well as in the production, and literally holding that line above the characters’ heads made it even more uncertain who was truly the sinner: Claudio, Angelo, or Isabella? The audience was left feeling uncertain just as Claudio is about death, and Isabella is about her feelings towards whether her brother should die. Mostly this scene illuminates the universal desire for certainty, made even more apparent from the lighting change during Claudio’s soliloquy.

Intercultural Communication and Acculturation :: globalization, misunderstanding

Communication within one culture can often be difficult, convoluted and result in many misunderstanding, this process can be significantly exacerbated however when communicators are from different cultures. With the world becoming smaller day by day due to globalization and cultures converging from all corners of the globe, communication and culture as we know it has drastically evolved and become very complex. Examples of this can be seen right here as people from all over the world immigrate to America. Throughout history as people from around the globe made America their new home they have had to address and overcome the looming issues of intercultural communication and acculturation. According to Webster.com acculturation means; cultural modification of an individual, group, or people by adapting to or borrowing traits from another culture; also: a merging of cultures as a result of prolonged contact (Webster†¦..). Beyond having to learn a new language which is difficul t enough but through the process of acculturation they have to learn social values, norms, rules that very often is entirely different that that of their native culture. In order to successfully thrive and survive people have had to master a language while navigating through a society that often looks, behaves, sounds and fundamentally believes differently than they themselves do. Making this process even more difficult is always the prevailing desire to hold true to native customs values and traditions which may not be accepted practice in the new society. For example in America we believe in and exercise freedom of religion however in a predominantly Christian society practicing other faiths such as Muslim of Buddhism may prove more confined and contained than in ones home land where the majority practices their religion. Further examples of this point may stem to the work place where women are treated equally and their ideas and opinions are accepted and sought after but in other nations women are treated as second class citizens and therefore have no voice in public environments. These instances can require great adjustment on the part of ind ividuals who may not be familiar with American customs and treatment of women in the workplace or otherwise. Also the inability to find adequate words from a native tongue may pose a problem and great frustration if there is no literal translation in the new language. Although acculturation does not require complete assimilation and abandonment of one’s beliefs or culture it does require embracing and adopting practices of the new culture.

Infant Immortality Essay example -- essays research papers

Infant Mortality in the United States   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Trends in infant mortality are considered to be a barometer of technology and an accurate indicator of the health of a society. Despite technological excellence and numerous social programs offered throughout the country, the infant mortality rate (IMR) in the United States continues to be a national concern. For many, â€Å"infant mortality† brings to mind the deprivation and poverty found in third world countries. Yet in the United States, nearly 40,000 children die every year for some of the same reasons that cause infant death in underdeveloped parts of the world (Anderson, 1987).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Infant mortality is prevalent in this country despite a richly developed and technologically advanced society. According to the Census Bureau, the IMR in the United States has dropped almost 66 percent in the past three decades (Eberstadt, 1991). In 1960, out of every thousand babies born, 26 died within their first year of life. By 1991, that number had dropped to less than nine out of every thousand babies (Eberstadt et al., 1991). According to the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the US infant mortality rate in 1987 was higher than in 23 other countries or territories, including most of Western Europe, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The US infant mortality rate was about 20 percent higher than Norway’s, nearly 50 percent higher than in the Netherlands, and 200 percent higher than Japan’s (Eberstadt et al., 1991). The United States has not always fared so poorly in this international ranking. In the early 1950’s it ranked sixth best (Anderson et al., 1987).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Select Committee on Hunger held a Congressional hearing on infant mortality in the United States on April 29, 1987. Representative Mickey Leland (D., TX), the committee’s chairperson, acknowledged the continued statistical improvements over the prior two decades. But he was very critical of the decline of the United States in the international ranking, expressing dismay that a country as wealthy and powerful as the United States should have an infant mortality rate worse than that of 16 other industrialized nations (Anderson et al., 1987). Through mediums such as this hearing and other forums, the federal government addresses this concern and establish... ...rson must strive to ensure that babies survive. No amount of technological skill can combat the preventative measures of proper prenatal care. The ultimate voice of prevention will only be heard by women who have enough maternal instinct to seek available prenatal and infant care. References   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Anderson, G. (December 1987). Dying Young: Infant Mortality in the United States. America Press, Inc., 498-501.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Barnes-Boyd, C., Norr, K., & Nacion, K. (1996). Evaluation of an Interagency Home Visiting Program to Reduce Postneonatal Mortality in Disadvantaged Communities. Public Health Nursing Vol.13 No. 3, 201-208.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Eberstadt, N. (Fall 1991). America’s Infant-Mortality Puzzle. The Public Interest, No 105, 111-112.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation. (1996). Birth Defects and Infant Mortality: A National and Regional Profile. Petrini, J. (Ed.).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Strobino, D., O’Campo, P., Schoendorf, K. (December 1995). A Strategic Framework for Infant Mortality Reduction: Implications for â€Å"Healthy Start†. The Milbank Quarterly Vol. 73 No. 4, 27.

Enron And Ethics Essay

Having some detailed written code of ethics like Enron had is usually not enough. Enron had a 64 page code of ethics and incase you might be wondering, the pages were not blank. However, despite this, it went down. The organizations ought to infuse some integrity and ethics in their corporate structure and in their success definition. To be precise, Enron ethics were simply ignored by the management and the employees. In any organization, the functions of any department should be based on ethical values, competence, integrity and a clear accountability of financial matters. Enron totally ignored these functions thus leading to its bankruptcy. As the company’s reputation did grow globally, hence there was competition of the employees therefore leading to individual greed and also the generation of egotism in the company. Every employee wanted to earn more, achieve a lot and hence there was the high motivation by the company to succeed. Such an atmosphere leads to a tendency to distrust people as everybody is concerned with their personal interests. There were so many dealings in the finance section hence the company’s goals were underestimated as well as the business ethics. Therefore it is imperative to give an immense background on Enron’s collapse and various views that can be deducted from its collapse. Enron’s, history, collapse the whistleblowers and conflicts The main issue which led to its downfall lay comfortably in the department of the operations management. At one time the company was receiving lots of praises from outsiders and then it was mounted with a decentralized control in the finance sector and also their decision structure gave an unclear and illogical picture on the activities of the company and its operations. Enron Corporation was one of the largest companies in Houston, Texas which used to sell natural gas, electricity and also distributed energy. It also offered other services for example bandwidth interest connections as well as offering financial services and providing management of risk services globally. The company gradually became powerful due to its initiative marketing strategies as well as the endorsement of communications and power bandwidth services and the offshoots of risk management. All these services got supervised by the department of operations management and other departments. Though the functions of these departments were executive in their nature, there was however lack of responsibility, integrity, control and creativity. The absence of these vital ethics did lead to the entire bankruptcy of the whole company. Kenneth lay who died three months before he was to be finally sentenced was the founder of Enron in the year 1985. He initiated the electricity sale and then afterwards US congress did pass legislation on the deregulation of natural gas. Enron before its collapse could report some annual revenues in the year 1990 of $ 10 billion and in the year 2000 to about $ 101 billion (Mark, 2002). In October 2, 2002, early in the morning, Andrew, Fastow who was Enron’s former chief and the financial officer did voluntarily surrender to the FBI agents and was led in hand cuffs to the car trailed by the television cameras and reporters. He was later taken to federal house and was charged with mail fraud, securities fraud, conspiracy, and money laundering. He was sentenced for ten years (Loren, 2003). In the 1990s, Enron was a universal lauded company that did transform all the old businesses and started creating new ones. However, the criminal complains did cap disclosures and revealed that it was poorly managed and had amplified its reliance on some convoluted business ordeals in order to maintain growth objectives and encourage some unbridled ingenuity that resulted to fraud. It is patent that the company had some poor internal controls and unreliable top managers. Enron came crushing in 2001 and filed for what could have been termed as the nation’s vast bankruptcy. What were the main causes of its down fall? First the financial statements of Enron were not transparent and did not give a clear detail on the finances and operations with analysts and shareholders. Second it had a complex business model that actually stretched on the accounting limits thus required the company to use the limitations of accounting in order to manage on its earnings as well as modify on its balance sheet to limelight a constructive depiction of its whole performance. It is completely patent in the Enron movie; these scandals had grown tremendously out of some steady accumulation of the values. Habits and actions that had already began many years before later going out of control. The top managers who were the whistleblowers like Jeffrey Skilling who was the chairman and Andrew Fastow contributed to the downfall. The auditor, Arthur Andersen, also got accused of reckless application standards in the audits out of conflict of interest over the vital consultancy fees that had been generated by this company. Finally, in November 28, of 2001, Enron was declared bankrupt. The company lost confidence in its investors and at the end had very little cash to run business and satisfy some hefty debts. Trade secrets and privacy in Enron Trade secret is by definition any information that the company keeps as a secret in order to offer them an advantage over other competitors. Basically Enron was a multi billion dollar company that had assets that were far flung that did rival those of other companies and countries thus there had to be some information on their weakness in order to bring them down that was unknown to some average citizens. According to Debka, the first hidden weakness of Enron was based on finance which could have made the competitors destroy the company fast. Enron hid hefty blocks of liabilities from investment company’s eyes through creation of shell companies to which they were basically shuffling debts. Since the outside companies had no tie to this company, there is no one in the investment community who realized how immensely in debt Enron was and how it was affecting on its pictures of profitability. The Enron executives knew that if this information if it was made public then the investors would end up selling their stock. Enron basically had to hide some hefty liabilities in their shell company to show the investors that they were still at a profit. The second weakness it had was the fact that it held some contracts on foreign soil thus depending on those countries to pay all their bills according to the agreement. All the conflicts of interest of this company were finally not solved as they accumulated and led to bankruptcy. All this later led to court cases where the convicts were sentenced. All this shows there was some extent of privacy. Kenneth lay already knew that Enron was undergoing some financial trauma but still went ahead to lie to the shareholders and the investors that the company was at its best shape. They kept their financial crisis a secret. Honesty and Enron The moral demand of transparency as well as honesty is the foundational principle in investing in the free markets. Any decision of any corporation to ignore some moral demands that are based on transparency and honesty in their financial arrangements should never be used like an excuse to smother the spirit of the entrepreneurial in aggressive situations (Philip, 2001). Analysts and the commentators analyzed on the hinge matter that led to the down fall of Enron. It is lucid that the demise of Enron did not lie in the deregulation of electric power but in some questionable practices of accounting by the company. Thus we can denote that honesty which is an ethical principal was not curtailed. Despite their higher earnings, in 2001 Jeffrey Skilling resigned for some disclosed reasons and Enron reported a loss of $ I billion because of poor performance. Despite the angle you look at the whole phenomenon, it is quite clear that there lacked honesty at Enron. In the documentary ‘Enron: the smartest guys in the room’ it depicts on some o the social evils like hubris, greed and lies that did bring Enron down. The film does a tremendous job of digging up a lot of dirty acts where the whistle blowers could tell some plain lies to the government, investors, and employees and make it sound very good. Virtues and Enron Despite the mischievous and questionable deeds by Enron, failing to credit them for some charity work they did will be questioning on our ethics too. Most media reports have reported on some good work that was done by Ken Lay, who is the former Enron’s CEO. With his family he gave generously to the church through the family’s charitable foundation which did hold over $ 50, 000,000 of all Enron stock in the year 2000 (Tim, 2010). Enron made some sufficient donations to the legitimate charities. (Francis, 2002). Utilitarianism and Enron Some theories and principles can be used to give an inner analysis on the situation at hand that led to this failure. Utilitarianism theory by John, Stuart Mill, does offer some straightforward method of approach in deciding the morally right action for all situations we find ourselves in. This is a theory that does consider what is good for everybody. To discover what we ought to do, we should identify first the divergent courses of actions that can be performed in the situation and all the future benefits as well as harms that can mount from that. Utilitarianism states that we should always take the course of actions that offers the most benefits when the costs have already been taken into full account (Manuel et al, 1989). In this case it is patent that utilitarianism concept was never used. The company since it already knew that it was going down to the drains could have come up with a strategy that was rational to save them from the predicament instead of fooling those around it that it was enjoying some benefits. They could have used this theory to look unto the future possibilities and work towards attaining sustainability. They should have been a global responsibility to advance in their financial aspects (Yvon, 2003). Egoism and Enron Unlike Utilitarianism, egoism theory states that individuals should only act to their own best interest and self interest. Egoism is basically not effectual for solving the moral conflicts. In Enron Company most people got away with this theory. Egoism is only based in addressing concerns that are based on satisfying our own desires and getting what we really want (Jelena & Kristijan 2008). The employees at Enron lost their jobs and life savings and the higher executives cashed in millions and received other millions in the bonuses for all the stock inflation thus bringing the company down. There were blatant interest conflicts that were overlooked, members of the board received hefty gifts from executives, millions were spent to discourage oversight and government regulations and warnings from within were ignored (Lawrence, 2002). That is pure egocentrism that should be discouraged in the workplaces.

Lang’s Alcohol Study: An Analysis

The study conducted by researcher Alan Lang on the effects of alcohol represented one of the first approaches to using the double-blind form of study. A double-blind study is a type of study in which neither the participants nor the experimenters themselves know who has received the treatment. In Lang’s (1975) study, he and his colleagues pre-tested amounts of vodka and tonic water, and plain tonic water, to determine whether or not the two can be significantly differentiated from one another. After learning that the two were virtually the same in taste, they recruited college men who described themselves as social drinkers to become participants in the study. Some of the participants drank vodka and tonic water while others drank tonic water alone. It was then revealed in the study that practically half of the men who drank vodka and tonic water thought they were drinking tonic water only, while those who did drink tonic water alone thought their drink was mixed with vodka. The last part of the experiment entailed provoking the participants, and the result was that those who believed that they had drunk vodka displayed more anger than those who thought they had drank tonic water only. It can be said then that the primary purpose of Lang’s entire study was to discover the effects of alcohol on human behavior. However, his study deviated from the normal process of using alcohol as a means of studying behavior because of the incorporated element of a double-blind. Also, his study could be defined as a correlational one, as it basically sought to find a relationship between the alcohol and the provoked aggressiveness among the participants. Only a primary source was used, and the subjects in this case were college students of the male gender. As for the selection of the participants for the study however, random selection was not utilized as only men who specifically described themselves as social drinkers were chosen to take part. The reason for this was probably because it was imperative for the results of the study that the participants be drinkers by nature, as only they could effectively have the best chance of differentiating vodka and tonic from tonic water alone. To do random selection would have been difficult as the researchers would have no guarantee as to the drinking preferences of the participants. The sampling method used was also not stratified, as in stratification, the sample population is first divided into a number of parts or â€Å"strata,† in order to relate it to the major variables being studied. The independent variable (IV) in this case is the alcohol given to the participants, whether it was vodka and tonic or plain tonic water alone. The dependent variable (DV) was the response of the participants, specifically the level of aggression displayed in response to the provocation done by the researchers. The theory for this study is that it was done in order to determine the effects alcohol could have on behavior, regardless of whether it (alcohol) was actually given or if it was merely perceived. A probable hypothesis would be that it the mere perception that alcohol was a part of one’s drink could effectively lead to a change in behavior on the part of the participants, without the need for the actual consumption of the alcohol. As evidenced by the documented results, this is exactly what happened. While the research is for the most part valid, especially with the use of the double-blind approach, there are nevertheless certain flaws in the procedure and methodology that could be improved upon by those who would later conduct related studies. First of all, the length of time with which the experiment was done could have been lengthened so that there would be more time to test the reactions of the participants. The use of other forms of alcohol other than vodka and tonic water would have also been a welcome addition to the process of the research, as it would lend even more credibility to the results of the study. The provocation itself could be placed under question; the researchers should have first taken steps to make sure that the provocation would not unknowingly trigger any previously stored extreme emotions. As an example, if one of the participants were black and the provocation was racially charged, this could serve to heighten the aggravated response of the participant as opposed to what would have been only a normal reaction. Perhaps the largest extraneous variable of all was the non-random selection of participants for the study. While it is noted that the researchers needed participants to be social drinkers to validate the differentiation process, there could have been other ways to better improve selection and reduce bias and other threats to validity. What could have been done was to select a large population of college students randomly and then determine who among those selected were drinkers. From that sample, the researchers could have then applied another randomization process to come up with the final list of participants. Nevertheless, in summary the Lang study has proven to contribute much to the body of knowledge in psychology, and for all its faults, still remains to be one of the classic psychological experiments worthy of emulation. Works Cited Rathus, Spencer. Psychology: Concepts and Connections, 9th Ed.. Thomson and Wadworth, 2007. Jung, John. Psychology of Alcohol and Other Drugs: A Research Perspective. Sage Publications, Inc., 2000. Haggert, Steve. Medical Psychology of Alcohol Drinking and Addiction: Index of New Information and References. Abbe Pub Assn. of Washington D.C., 1996 G

Distribution Process of a Retailer Essay

A retailer may have an attractive store, well trained staff and even a distinctive brand reputation in the market. However, these factors don’t count for anything if products are not on the shelf when the customer is shopping. For that reason, ensuring products are available for the customer at all times is a very important process for retailers. The distribution process increases the need to improve quality service, ensures a shorter order cycle time and takes into consideration any environmental factors. The main function of the supply chain is to provide products and services required by end consumers. The supply chain extends from raw materials in some way through May process to reach to the final consumer; each link in the chain processes the material in some way or supports this by processing. It can also include the disposals of any associated waste. An efficient and responsive supply chain will be will be able to improve stock availability, improve choices, offer up to date products and reduce stock levels and mark down. But in the overall terms, costs will depreciate whilst sales and profits increase. UK and other countries within Europe have well developed road and rail infrastructures offering highly efficient and costs effective methods of transport, so road and rail are two of the most popular modes of transport used to move goods these transport could be by van or Lorries. One of the road working infrastructure as an example could be the By rail. The freight rail network is highly developed in the UK. It is very important that companies should think about the entire journey that the products and service take to ensure it efficient enough for the goods to arrive in time correctly. Transportation of goods, once in mainland Europe, could take some time and involve transhipment to a variety of different rail operators. It is better to ship large quantities of goods in one single shipment in order to be cost effective. Another different type of distributing and moving goods in the UK and mainland Europe is By road. It is the most popular method of transporting goods. By road is a good transport method because there are easier links and quicker access to find your current location on where the goods are supposed to be delivered and where you are trying to go. Thought must be given into the type of goods being transported. e. g. road transportation may not be quite suitable for consumable goods. By observation and assessment of the road UK and mainland Europe should determine whether the infrastructure is of high enough standard to verify that the products arrive on time and in excellent condition on time without any delays. By air transport is a quick option and allows retailers to hold smaller stock levels. The costs however for the majority of products are likely to be a sky high price and this means transport might be the best for emergency stock or in covering deadlines. There are various problems which may occur during the deliverance of goods to the location you are trying to reach for example delays at airports. Another way of transportation could be by water, By Water means goods being packaged in a ship and then sent to the UK and mainland Europe within 2 to 5 working days. When consumers purchase products online the goods are sometimes delivered by direct marketing e. g. transports by van, Lorries and etc. This way of transport is good if people wait for the product. A different way of transporting goods within UK and mainland Europe is by container. There is a good level of security which results in low insurance costs. Containers however are usually much expensive when producing and returning empty containers increases and raises the expenses. Special equipment is needed in order to handle the containers and this is a limitation to the number of transfer points. There are benefits for sourcing in The UK. These benefits include shorter lead times, shorter transit times, ability to monitor the total production processes more easily and lastly lower costs in terms of management time and communications. A retail store may think about accepting higher prices in exchange for the lower risk and costs associated with sourcing from the UK or a geographically close country. Costs will be greater when sourcing form distant or less developed country. However, some companies adopt a policy of sourcing form several different countries. These types of shops have a large and also successful private limited company. It is crucial that retailers have suppliers to deliver their products and services for the business. Retailers depending on the products they sell may need one, two or even several suppliers. Suppliers are often divided into four main categories these are retailers a majority of them purchase through company salespeople or independent representatives and also handle products from a variety of different companies who are manufacturers. Prices for these sources can be quite low although this will depend on a retailer’s location as an added cost of shipping freight might be incurred. Another category is Independent craftspeople they are likely to offer exclusive distribution of unique products and are usually offered by independent crafts people, sales representatives or through trade shows. A third category of suppliers are called the import sources, domestic importers operate in a similar way to a domestic wholesaler. A few retailers if familiar with the country will travel abroad to purchase products. Distributors, also known as wholesalers, brokers or jobbers, normally represent an international producer in one of their important overseas markets. The distributor purchases in quantity from a variety of different manufacturers and warehouses the products for sale to retailers. Commonly distributors will be distributed in the market which they have distribution rights, have the financial strength to carry sufficient stock levels, be ready to purchase in large amounts to minimise the expense of international transport, either be entirely or partly involved in promotion and any after sales service requirements of the product, be responsible for the business transactions in their market for the exporter’s products, accept the risks that are associated with trading in a particular market. The logistics process refers to the management of resources within the supply chain to ensure the right product is available, in the right quantity at the right time. There is a possibility of many costs involved in the transportation of goods and selecting the most reliable and accessible is important. Consideration must also be given to transit times, capability, security and to one of the most important elements cost. The supply chain is increasingly influenced by the use of ICT. Many of the developments are designed to raise the responsiveness of the supply chain to customer needs. Companies need to use ICT and information sharing techniques in order to focus on the reduction of responsive time, streamline logistic functions across the supply chain in order to reduce costs and improve efficiency, develop supply chain relationships, enhance customer services for a competitive advantage and also attain international standards and access to global markets. Distribution of eRail Products and Services – Fulfillment is the process of receiving, packaging and shipping orders for products. Any of eRetailer selling goods directly to customers through the e – commerce must deal with fulfillment. For eRetailer it is crucial to fulfill orders as efficiently and cost effectively as possible. There are two key methods used by eRetailer store picking and dedicating warehouse. Generally store picking involves using low levels of technology to assemble orders by picking up the good of the supermarket shelves. Retailers like supermarkets are for example Tesco’s, Sainsbury’s, Asdas, Somerfield these methods are used by Tesco’s direct and Sainsbury’s order online. The advantages and disadvantages of using the methods are there is a shorter delivery distances because stores cover a small, local catchment area, easy access to the target location by using transport modes (road) can reach your destination on time. And the disadvantages of using method includes for example this happen very often out of stock products, high picking costs meaning expensive products which some consumers are unable to pay or cannot afford that particular item and store customer disruption. These would be the advantages and disadvantages that may conclude of using this method.

The Global Fast Food Industry External Remote Environment Analysis

StakeholdersA stake holder of a company is any group or an individual who can have an effect or is affected by the success of the company’s goals. For the company to easily achieve its corporate business objectives (goals) , it must have a good connection with its external parties. This means that if the company’s relationship with its stakeholders is not strong, the company is bound to fail in achieving it’s corporate business objectives. This is because their interest to the corporation influences the corporation’s achievements.The company’s strong relationship with stakeholders is measured based on confidence, trust and cooperation. This means that the stakeholders’ interest to the company will be high if there is high trust, respect and good team work. This is majorly primary strategic management. For a company to maintain its competitive advantage and remain relevant, it should clearly identify its stakeholders and other external parties and strengthen its association with them. Stakeholders will include shareholders, employees, customers and suppliers.  It’s difficult to clearly identify the other external parties because there is no clear formula to define it. But because of advertisements, different people are becoming stakeholders depending on different factors. This involves global impacts of an industry such as climate change or cultural due to marketing and advertising.CUSTOMERThis is an individual or group which receives or consumes the final product or services of the company. For the company to increase and maintain its level of clients, it must produce high and good quality products or services. This will ensure that customers demand will be loyal and high. Also because of competition in the market, the corporation should be dynamic in its activities and the price for the product should be fair as different people have different perceptions to price hence should set fair prices to accommodate al l customers. The company communicates through advertisements, trade exhibitions & promotions, giving free samples, cash discounts, offering credit facilities among others. This increases customer awareness of the product or service.SuppliersThese are short term financiers of the company. Their confidence in the company depends on how prompt the corporation honors their credit facilities and how regular they carry on their businesses. The company communicates to this group through cheques, when they make payments, purchase orders.SHAREHOLDERSThey are the owners of the company. Their shares form the equity capital of the company. For them to retain their interest they must receive good dividends from the profits of the company and their investments must keep on appreciating in that company. This will increase the value of the shares and the company’s’ reputation. The company communicates to is shareholders through the Annual General Meeting, AGM which is convened yearly. These people are important to the company because if they have no confidence in the company, the value of shares will reduce in stock market, investors will withdraw their investments from the company and no new investors will invest, creditors will stop offering their services, employees will not receive their salaries, sales will go down and the hence the corporation will collapse.EmployeesThese are the managers of the company. The receive salary from the company and they are motivated if their working conditions in the company is good. the company communicates to the employees through holding meetings, letters of appointments, letters of dismissal and journals.The importance of the employees in the company is to ensure that the resources of the company are taken care of to achieve high results. This will increase sales and improve the reputation of the company. Also investors will be high and hence the value of the shares will increase.ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSISEconomic environmenta lWorld financial market is being affect by Middle East crisis the and US sub prime crisis and there is a global impact on consumer spending worldwide. At first sight this would seem a disproportionate reaction but banks all over the world are exposed to US debt. Sub-prime lending was lending at higher interest rates as a means of helping American consumers of lower incomes and poorer credit records obtain mortgages. These loans were then sold on, in complex ways, to other institutions including hedge (higher risk higher return) funds. The treatment of sub prime loans by the banks is likely to have far reaching effects including, possibly, a slowdown in the US economy and a confidence linked decline in US consumer spending. The Middle East crisis has affected the world economy because Middle East is the source of oil. Although there are alternative sources of energy still oil remains the most important source of energy. Crisis in the energy sector the world is affected.Fact is that U S retail sales rose only 0.3% in August 2007 suggesting increasing caution of the crisis ahead. US retail sales are a major driver of economic growth and may be viewed as an early response to a housing slump and financial market turmoil. Over the past 12 months, retail sales rose by 3.9% excluding autos. However, the level of spending did not indicate recession tendencies though analysts expect growth to decline in the near future. There were modest increases in sales for furniture (0.5%), electronics (0.4%), sporting goods (0.3%), and health care (0.3%) compared with the same month a year ago. Thus, this national economic problem might have a small effect on the food sector because some foods are usually priced higher than regular food (Xinhua News Agency, 14 September 2007).Technological TrendsNearly half of all Americans have broadband Internet connections in their homes, according to the annual survey by the Pew Internet & American Life Project in July 2007. The number of home b roadband users nationwide now equals the total number of Americans with any type of Internet connection in 2000, the first year the survey was conducted. Four out of 10 African-American adults have broadband access at home, compared to 15% two years ago. Nearly one-third of rural Americans have home broadband connections, compared to about half of Americans living in urban areas and the suburbs. According to Pew, income and race are becoming less important differentiators in US broadband adoption.Also, according to a May 2007, 67% of US consumers favor making purchases at a traditional store. Some 69% said they used the Internet to comparison shop, and 58% said they go online to locate items before going to the store to make a purchase. Only 13% said the Internet had not improved their patronizing experience. The conclusion is that, instead of replacing brick and mortar stores, the Internet is an extension of consumers' patronize experience, providing a resource to research product and price. When asked what the most powerful influencer was concerning purchasing decisions, 60% said word of mouth, followed by advertising (47%) and online information (43%). In view of the technological trend of consumers being reliant on the Internet for information, KFC should consider setting up a website to have an edge against their competitors.This will assist in the increasing of profitability of fast food industry through advertising in the internet, website development which will list the products of the firm. The future of the firm is predicted with little degree of certainty.Socio-Political TrendsAccording to a survey by Light speeds Research, 70% of US adults support government actions like restricting TV ads for food. Women are more supportive than men of such measures, with 73% reporting support of government actions versus 63% of men.According to a nationwide telephone survey conducted by Research! America and The Endocrine Society in December 2006, some 27% of res pondents prioritized obesity as the top health issue for children, followed by lack of health care/insurance (16%) and nutrition/unhealthy diet (9%). According to Health Day News, the research, which was released on Dec. 13, also found that 52% of respondents regard obesity as a public health issue that society should help solve with 46% regarding it as a private issue. According to the National Center for Health Statistics at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 66% of American adults aged 20-74 and 17% of children aged 2-19 are overweight or obese.In some countries, health regulation requires nearly   restaurants to post calorie information on their menus. This means all these developments in the national and local level are beneficial for food vendors because the growing concern about healthy eating would surely boost their sales. In some countries and religions beliefs and values determines the type of food being sold in the market. Take for example in th e Muslim world some meaty foods will not be sold because of the beliefs. This applies to the east and the west. Foods taken in Japan can strange in Africa Europe and other places and the converse is true.REFERENCESAnonymous.(2007);   A Not So Great 2008: Emerging Trends Report.  National Real Estate Investor (Online Exclusive).Armstrong G. & Kotler P. (2007). 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