The Master and the Disciple - Who is Who in the World of the Research Paper

The Master and the Disciple - Who is Who in the World of the Counterintelligence - Research Paper Example The two intelligence communities have been working in close cooperation with each other since the first timid steps of the FBI in counter-espionage, and are still working together, even closer than ever, due to a set of reasons their paths followed in many ways different directions, in the meaning of strategic goals, budgetary constraints with the ensuing structural features, staffing, and efficiency, with all the consequences that stemmed from it. And finally, the paper draws a conclusion that sharing common values and pursuing similar objectives, in particular after the decay of the British Empire, but what is more important, learning from each other’s failures and achievements, the US and the British concepts of intelligence and counterintelligence have quite logically and understandably converged. ‘Counterintelligence means information gathered and activities conducted to protect against espionage, other intelligence activities, sabotage, or assassinations conducted for or on behalf of foreign powers, organizations or persons, or international terrorist activities, but not including personnel, physical, document or communications security programs.’(Executive Order 12333 - United States intelligence activities, Part 3 General Provisions, art. 3.4 Definitions, retrieved on 14 April 2010 < http://www.cia.gov/about-cia/ eo12333.html>) Since the very dawn of the purposeful gathering of information about the plans, capabilities and intentions of foreign powers, it had become essential for a nation not only to keep the powers concerned unaware of that knowledge but also to preserve its own plans, capabilities, and intentions from being revealed. Besides the broad national interest, it’s the ever-growing necessity of effectively detecting and countering the possible threats and hostile activities, which makes any intelligence entity to produce a significant effort in order to safeguard its own operations.

Trustees of Indiana University Essay Example for Free

Trustees of Indiana University Essay Planning and building the landscape of education and the academic community is not an easy task or responsibility. There are various standards or guidelines that the academic institutions, its staff, teachers, communities, parents, and other stakeholders should adhere to in order to develop and provide educational programs and services that exceeds quality and excellence. At the heart of this imposing goal of education is the accomplishment of various research studies for the purpose of formulating, determining, and proving or debunking various theories, models, paradigms, frameworks, strategies, techniques, etc. that respond to various concerns for all the dimensions and aspects of education. For instance, several research studies conducted within the scope of the field of education were designed to address how Educational Philosophies are supposed to be drafted based on diverse viewpoints on learning and education, i. e. idealism, realism, existentialism, and so on. Moreover, theoretical perspectives that are being developed based on research studies and practical experiments lead to the development of various teaching strategies and techniques that address various problems from different angles of the learning situation. Under these pretexts, we realize why learning educational theories and models in different aspects of learning and education is important. The theories and models serve as a guide that helps government institutions, academic institutions, and teachers develop educational standards and guidelines, as well as specific programs, activities, learning content, and so on. In this way, the landscape of learning and education are well-planned and designed to accomplish, in the process, the genuine goals and objectives of education and the responsibilities of the academic institution, its staff, and the teachers, toward the nation, the government, the community, the parents, other stakeholders, and most importantly the learners. Developing an Understanding of Instructional Design One specific aspect or dimension of the teaching-learning process is Instructional Design. According to Jonassen, Tessmer, and Hannum (1999), Instructional Design may be considered initially as a process by which comprehensive information is obtained in order to determine how learning shall be best facilitated. The foundations of the Instructional Design shall be based on the nature of the learners, the features or characteristics of the learning environment, the availability of resources and information, the educational philosophy observed by the academic institution, the goals and objectives of education, rules and laws governing education, new trends or paradigms in education, and so on. These information shall be utilized to identify the processes, strategies, techniques, methods, materials, etc. that are to be used to facilitate learning and transmit knowledge to the learners. (Jonassen, Tessmer, Hannum, 1999) In order to develop sound, efficient, and appropriate practices in Instructional Design, various theories have been formulated to support the planning, implementation, and evaluation process. One of these theories includes the Instructional-Design Theory. The Instructional-Design Theory, according to Reigeluth (1983), is an outline that directs how learning shall be best facilitated. The Instructional-Design Theory constitutes three key concepts which help individuals, particularly teachers, as well as academic institutions, plan and design the content, the methods, strategies, techniques, etc. of instruction for the purpose of enhancing how learning takes place. In developing the landscape of education as the primary concern for the literature, several references, such as books, publications, and journals have been published over the years discussing the Instructional-Design Theory. However, not all information discussed in these references may be considered valid and reliable. Hence, reviewing references that shape the foundations of education, particularly in Instructional Design is important in order to obtain information that are relevant, appropriate, efficient, and advantageous for application to educational processes and operations. All about the Book Charles M. Reigeluth and Alison Carr-Chellman wrote the third volume of the â€Å"Instructional-Design Theories and Models† three-part series. The subtitle for this volume is â€Å"Building a Common Knowledge Base. † The main theme of the book still adheres to the concepts of the Instructional-Design Theory, however, in this third volume, there was much emphasis on solidifying the bases or foundations of Instructional Design founded on the vast scope of information on frameworks, models, paradigms, and so on, that build on how Instructional Design is viewed, planned, implemented and evaluated. Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman’s goals and objectives in coagulating the foundations of Instructional Design were realized through their discussion of the common knowledge or information shared by the variety of archetypes, standards, paradigms, etc. In addition, Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman may be highly regarded as reputable sources of information. Their experiences as members of the academe have made it possible for them to provide fitting contributions to the book. Reigeluth is a professor at Indiana University’s School of Education, Instructional Systems Technology Department. He has obtained a Ph. D. in Instructional Psychology at the Brigham Young University. (Indiana University, 2009) On the other hand, Carr-Chellman is also a professor at the Pennsylvania State University’s Department of Learning and Performance Systems. She has obtained a Ph. D. in Instructional Systems Technology (Indiana University) and a Master and Undergraduate Degree in Education (Syracuse University). (SAGE Publications, 2008) Central to the discussions and arguments in the book is the belief of the importance of establishing a common knowledge base that would fuse the bases and extract the essence of Instructional Design that will be the foundations of other models, theories, strategies, techniques, and planning or designing, implementation, and evaluation of Instructional Design as a process. This review primarily focuses on how Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman’s work is a great contribution to the field of education, particularly in shaping and developing the foundations of Instructional Design despite and even with the diverse changes to learning situations principally caused by concepts in constructivism. A SUMMARY OF THE BOOK The first unit of the book, â€Å"Frameworks for Understanding Instructional Theory,† provides generally common information, represented in specific contexts and structures, about the definition, dimensions, and mechanics of the Instructional Theory, the Instructional Design and Instruction, the philosophies that govern the process of instruction, and how instruction is being applied within various learning situations. This particular unit was developed in order to provide introductory information. It sets the stage for the succeeding discussions on the Instructional-Design Theories and Models by: (1) defining the features, conditions, conceptual framework, and delimitations of the Instructional-Design Theory, (2) discussing the importance of instruction and its role in facilitating learning and the transmission of knowledge, and (3) relating concepts and ideologies on the Instructional Theory and Instructional Design to practical situations that commonly occur within the setting of the teaching-learning process. The second unit of the book, â€Å"Theories of Different Approaches to Instruction,† constitutes five approaches to instruction with varied goals and expected outcomes. Each was written by different authors who contributed to complete the objectives of the book. The five approaches aforementioned are: (1) Direct Approach to Instruction which targets the fast and efficient transmission of knowledge through direct teacher-learner interaction, (2) Discussion Approach to Instruction which facilitates learning through discourse and interaction, (3) Experiential Approach to Instruction within learning environments that allow practical learning or the application of knowledge and skills, (4) Problem-Based Approach to Instruction wherein learning is facilitated by urging students to define problems and develop resolutions, and (5) Simulation Approach to Instruction which places the learners within an environment that represents reality. The third unit of the book, â€Å"Theories for Different Outcomes of Instruction,† addresses problems, challenges, and difficulties in the teaching-learning process as caused by diversity and the complexity of learning and the learners, which necessitates the realization of different outcomes from the learning process in order to promote holistic learning. These four theories, which seek to accomplish varied outcomes from the learners, include (1) Skill Development, (2) Understanding, (3) Affective Development, and (4) Integrated Learning. Apparently, these theories are responses to the need to diversify learning so as not to capitalize excessively on cognitive learning and instruction. These theories are based on the perspectives of holistic learning, which looks into other aspects of the person aside from his cognitive faculties. The fourth unit in the book, â€Å"Tools for Building a Common Knowledge Base,† tackles the practical aspect of developing a framework of Instructional Design, which is based on universal knowledge and information that withstands various changes and transformations in the landscape of education through time. There were various issues discussed in this particular chapter. The first issue has something to do with the conceptual framework of the Instructional Theory – that is the base knowledge or hypothesis for the theory, its goals and objectives, contributions to education, suggestions and recommendations, general points and ideas, and so on. Other issues constituted the design or process by which the academic institution is to undergo reformation. These designs or processes include the successful implementation of a Learner-Centered Education, the dimensions of learning and the Instructional Theory, how the Instructional Theory is to be applied to educational processes and operations appropriately considering the inception of the Information Age, and the necessity to apply common knowledge base to capture the genuine essence of Instructional Design as a process to facilitate the improvement of the educational landscape. ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF THE BOOK This book is the third installment in a three-volume set on Instructional-Design Theories and Models. The first volume of the book was set down by Reigeluth, the editor, with primary issues and concepts focused on narrating, defining, and describing the basic concepts that build on the theory of Instructional Design within the context of the existing landscape of education during that point in time. (Reigeluth, 1983) The second volume develops the major concepts and ideas in the first volume but with additions or contributions from paradigm shifts and newly discovered theories that seek to improve or enhance the framework of the Instructional Design Theory. (Reigeluth, 1999) Based on the concepts and ideas from the first and second volumes of the book, the fundamental features and contributions of the third volume are realized. The essence of this book lies in its undercurrent objectives of fusing the concepts and ideas from the first volume and the second volume in order to provide an improved source of information that builds on the core concepts of the Instructional Design Theory and the current trends integrated into the theory in order to develop or enhance its foundations as well as how it is applied with considerations on the modern issues and concepts. Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman have efficiently worked together in order to collate significant information that contributes to progressive knowledge of Instructional Design as a theory by focusing on how all the major and significant parts of the theory, whether traditional or modern, shall be put together to reconcile rational yet long-established theories with modern constructivist theories. We may consider the process of developing this book as gaining the best of both worlds – that is, the face of Instructional Design in the past and at present time – to provide a new paradigm of the Instructional Design theory that is deep-rooted on a secure and time-tested model but is also appropriate for current learning environments and situations. Under these pretexts, the contributions of this book to human knowledge was realized because it presented something new or innovative that is logical and sensible as well as practical. From the words of Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman (N. D. ), the maturity or development of knowledge in this particular context is only facilitated when theories are built on other theories. Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman’s vision in creating this book embodies innovation and development at the face of the necessity to continually improve one of the primary institutions in society that provides services in education. Delving into one of the many technical aspects of the book, Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman has also succeeded in providing a reputable or reliable and valid source of information based on the list of references used to complete this third volume. Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman were able to obtain information that was integrated into the book from the individuals who developed the various theories discussed in the second, third, and fourth chapters of the book. Gaining the original ideas and perspectives from the theorists themselves establishes its reliability and validity since information were obtained first hand. Moreover, Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman, as the editors of the book, have handpicked a variety of primary and secondary references to back-up their theses or main arguments in the book. This means that both editors made an effort to approach the matter impartially and evenhandedly. The book was consistently structured and organized from start to finish. It was topical in such a way that divisions were planned to categorize all similar ideas together, such that definitions were placed in the first unit, the theories for approaches in the second, and so on. In addition, the book was arranged chronologically in order to relay simple and singular information first before moving on to the complex ideas which have something to do with how the pioneers of education as a process are to synthesize information from the first units to develop a common knowledge base for the design and implementation of the Instructional Design Theory. Overall, the ideas were organized from general to specific and similar concepts or ideas were placed together in a single unit in order to prevent confusion on the part of the readers and to present a clear and concise conceptual structure. However, in the same way, the structure of the book solidified some of its flaws regarding how the main theme was covered and how the readers are expected to synthesize the information provided in order to come up with a common knowledge base to enhance the framework of current theories or models of Instructional Design. Mostly, Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman presented concepts and ideas on the approaches and expected outcomes of instruction. Although introducing new theories is relevant in the quest to develop or improve the structure of Instructional Design or theory, the arrangement of the ideas and the scope of the discussions do not sit well with the primary objectives of the book, let alone its subtitle that was supposed to define its content. I believe that Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman should have published two different books in order to secede the discussions in units two and three, and the fourth chapter, which genuinely captured the essence of the book. Furthermore, Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman should have given more thought on providing comprehensive and sufficient information on how individuals are to develop a common knowledge based on Instructional Design as a theory as it was the fundamental nature of the third volume of the three-part Instructional-Design book series. In terms of the content of the book, the number of sources, from books to journals, magazine articles, etc. that I have read over time has taught me that different types of information made available for readers are not meant to be technically and practically critiqued, but instead digested in order to determine whether they represent rational and exploitable ideas and concepts for the advancement of human knowledge and development of education. Reigeluth and Carr-Chellman decided to contribute something to the field of education by introducing this third volume of the Instructional-Design Theories and Model series and the time and effort placed to do so is entirely commendable. Moreover, the diversity of learning situations and the complexity of the various aspects of the teaching and learning process nowadays justifies the applicability or non-applicability of new theories, approaches, techniques, strategies, etc. being introduced to the academic institution. This means that some ideas presented would turn out to be effective in some learning situations and ineffective in some. The most important thing is to obtain the most important pieces of information that would be valid in all aspects and situations in order to establish a contingency plan that would prevent flaws and failures in education. This ideology represents what this book embodies as a bulk of knowledge. CONCLUSION By and large, the book is a significant piece of reference that contributes to the massive field of education, specifically in developing the foundations of Instructional Design as a response to the diverse changes in the learning situations and environments principally caused by concepts in constructivism. Although there were some flaws evident in the structure and organization of the book, it presents several pieces of information that meets the necessity for additional knowledge that expands Instructional Design. In addition, the book is an excellent reference for individuals who are exploring the variety of theories and models that build up Instructional Design. With the success of the book in fusing conventional ideas with contemporary ones in an attempt to solidify the generally accepted foundations of Instructional Design as a theory and reconcile it with innovative theories and models, the only inquiry that remains is what the future holds for Instructional Design in terms of how it is to be approached and how its current paradigm is to be modified. References Indiana University. (2009). Profile: Charles M. Reigeluth. Retrieved 14 Apr 2009, from The Trustees of Indiana University. Website: https://profile. educ. indiana. edu/Default. aspx? alias=profile. educ. indiana. edu/reigelut Jonassen, D. H. , Tessmer, M. , Hannum, W. H. (1999). Task Analysis Method for Instructional Design. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. Reigeluth, C. M. (1983). Instructional-Design Theories and Models: An Overview of their Current Status, Vol. I. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. Reigeluth, C. M. (1999). Instructional-Design Theories and Models: A New Paradigm of Instructional Theory, Vol. II. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. Reigeluth, C. M. Carr-Chellman, A. A. (N. D). A Common Language and Knowledge Base for ID?. Retrieved 15 Apr 2009, from the University of Georgia. Website: http://it. coe. uga. edu/itforum/paper91/Paper91. html Reigeluth, C. M. Carr-Chellman, A. A. (2009) Instructional-Design Theories and Models: Building a Common Knowledge Base, Vol. III. NY, USA: Routledge. SAGE Publications. (2008). Alison. A. Carr-Chellman. Retrieved 14 Apr 2009, from SAGE Publications. Website: http://www. sagepub. com/authorDetails. nav? contribId=530086 University of North Carolina. (N. D. ). Book Reviews. Retrieved 14 Apr 2009, from Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2. 5 License. Website: http://www. unc. edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/review. html

Prejudice Essay -- Prejudging essays research papers

Missing Formatting In today’s world, there are many social issues, like poverty, vandalism and unemployment. However, prejudice has become the most dramatic one. Prejudging people for their appearance is a common practice that humans perform. People are not only ridiculed for their color, but also by their religion, sex or age. Therefore, I consider that racism, ageism and sexism are the three major problems in our society and we need to cease them immediately. Much of our world’s history were based upon racism. In the 1600’s, white men used Africans as slaves and treated them as they were not human. "Colored" people were not even allowed to use the same drinking fountains as white people. Fortunately, in the last three decades, race prejudice has taken a positive turn. Many rights progra...

Submarines :: essays research papers

The Evolution of the Sumarine Due to War The submarine is an extreamly useful tactical tool. Bred through war, the submarine is one of the most advanced covert weapons technologies today. The submarine is a ship designed and built to travel under water. A "true" submarine spends the majority of time under water and is capable of staying under water indefinaltely(Rush 140). The only "true" submarine today is the nuclear sub. The first "true" submarine is the U.S.S nautilus(Rush 141). There are two main types of war affiliated submarines, attack submarines and ballistic missile submarines. The attack submarine is designed to seek and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships. The much larger ballistic missile submarine is designed to carry multiple warheads to attack enemy cities and military facilities ashore(Polmar 748). The submarine origionated over 2,000 years ago when Alexander the great went below the Mediteranian Sea in a glass barrel(Wyckoff 13). Submarines were toyed with by scientists through the years but not many uses were found for the concept of a submersable until the revolutionary war. The first attack submarine was the Turtle, designed by a student at Yale university by the name of David Bushnell, it's purpose was to sink a British war ship in New York Harbor(Polmar 750). It's mission was a failure but none the less was the first attempt to sink a ship with a submersable(Polmar 750). The first success was made durring the Civil War(Polmar 750). The Confederate sub Hunley rammed the Union ship Housatonic in Charleston Harbor, and both the Hunley and the Housatonic sank(Polmar 750). The Hunley's weapon consisted of an explosive at the end of a long pole wich was to be set off when in close enough proximity to the ship it was to attack(Polmar 750). The submarine has advanced dramaticly due to war. The first major advancement in submarine technology is the invention of a gasoline and batery powered submarine by John P. Holland(Polmar 750). This ship was bought by the US Navy in 1900 and named the U.S.S Holland(Polmar 750). The U.S.S Holland was capable of speeds of 6 knots submerged(Polmar 750). The gasoline and battery powered combination allowed for submarines to run on gasoline while surfaced, and by battery power when submerged and combustion was no longer possable without wasting valuable oxogen within the submarine. The next leap in the technological development of the submarine was the periscope developed by Simon Lake in 1902(Polmar 750).

Fast Food and Economy Essay

Present essay addresses the negative issues of fast food in modern society through the prism of the comprehensive analysis of its affects on health, culture, ethics and economy. There is no denying the importance of the fact that the issue of the fast food became relevant as a result of the modern globalization processes, which influenced the spread of the ‘American’ style of nutrition through the mechanism of its commercialization.   The evolution of fast food, as Jakle suggests, dates back to the post-industrial era of Western society including rapid development of automobile roots and road restaurants (Jakle, 21-26). Such components of fast food as hot dogs, hamburgers etc. were traditionally the elements of national patterns of nutrition, however, due to economic and cultural globalization, mentioned products reached new markets and peoples and proclaimed themselves as generally accepted patterns of food consumption. Such transnational corporations as McDonalds represent the paramount of the latter processes, because they control not only national markets, but international markets of food consumption in general. Negative effects of fast food were widely addressed in journalist and scholarly research, however, comprehensive framework of its analysis as cultural and economic phenomena is not still created. Based on these reservations, present essay defends the following thesis: Fast food is characterized by the negative effects on several spheres of human life. First of all, consuming fast food results in poor health consequences and including stomach deceases, diabetes etc. Secondly, fast food results in the degradation of national cuisines and cultural patterns of consumption, based on the perception of consumption as a spiritual ritual, characterized by emotional and aesthetic satisfaction. Finally, the third sub-thesis of the present essay refers to negative economic consequences of fast food, because it results in the low priorities of national food industries due to monopolization of this market by such American giants as McDonalds. Health Implications Negative health implications of fast food are the most obvious and are generally the object of the harsh critique. Fast food contains large quantity of calories and fats, which results in the deterioration of biological metabolism and concentration of sugar in the human blood and consequently abnormal functioning of various organs.   As Adams suggests, fast food consumption is one the main causes of the obesity epidemics in many countries, including the most widespread implication for the abdominal fat (Adams, 155). The research on fast food implication on health also revealed that it develops signs of the insulin resistance, which may be described as the early indicator of such decease as diabetes (Obesity in America, 2008). As Schlosser, the author of Fast Food Nation suggest in this respect, ‘it seems wherever America’s fast food chains go, waistlines inevitably start expanding’ (Schlosser, 242). The problem of obesity as result of fast food consumption is evident in many Western and nowadays non-Western countries, where the fast food industry is the most developed. The problem is amplified by the fact that obesity is not officially acknowledged as the health problem or epidemics. Only health consequences of obesity on heart, lungs and other crucial organs are addressed, however the main problem is not resolved, because such approach deals with the secondary issues, but not the causes. The diet and healthy food consumption, however, becomes very difficult for the majority of ordinary people fast food market offers cheaper products. To sum it up, health implications of fast food are widely acknowledged which certifies to the relevance of the first sub-thesis. Cultural and Ethical Implications of Fast Food Negative cultural and ethical implications of fast food are connected with the mode of its production and consumption. Fast food represents an industrial pattern of production, which focuses on profit and quantity, rather than quality. It is standardized and utilizes products, which are not always biologically healthy. Such approach results in degradation of national cuisines, which traditionally focused on home-made products, which are to be properly served and properly eaten. This tradition is still present in restaurants; however the majority of people still are forced to consume fast food due to intense advertising and relative cheapness. Culture of fast food is something that is characterized by haste, rationalization, lack of spirituality and aesthetic beauty. Unlike prepared meals, fast food has nothing to do with creativity and professionalism and hence it lacks cultural meaning. Negative ethical implications of fast food production may be observed in mass slaughterhouses, where meat and other products are prepared. Schlosser describes the atmosphere, which reigns there in such a way, â€Å"burning hair and blood, that greasy smell, and the odor of rotten eggs.† (Schlosser, 68). Fast Food and Economy Fast food is inextricably connected with poverty, because it parasitizes on the majority of people, who have no financial possibility to consume healthy food. The latter is closely linked with the absence of adequate health education. The globalization of fast food market also results in the monopolization of the food market in the developing countries. McDonald’s hamburgers are currently the most famous type of food and are considered by many as tasty and trendy. National cuisines are still popular; however, the trend spreads in the direction of their defeat by fast food market. The latter negatively affects the economies of developing countries, which lose external markets. McDonalds-style monopolization aggravates poverty, existing in developing countries by means of degrading its health potential and consequently its labor market. Opposing Perspective on Fast Food Those, who support fast food usually point to its cheapness, fast preparation and availability. The first argument was criticized in this paper based on poor quality of fast food and its parasitizing on poverty; the second point proceeds from the false assumption that fast preparation is something valuable. In contrast, present paper showed that it results in poor consequences for health and culture. Conclusion Present essay defended the stated thesis that fast food negatively affects human health, culture, ethics and economy. Health implications are evident in the wide number of studies, as well apparent syndrome of obesity in Western countries. Cultural and ethical implications relate to the degradation of the patterns of spiritual and cultural food consumption, based on family   and national traditions. Finally, economic consequences refer to the trend of standardization of fast food production, its link with poverty and social inequality. References Adams, Catherine. (2007) â€Å"Reframing the Obesity Debate: McDonald’s Role May Surprise You.† Journal of Law, Medicine, and Ethics Vol. 35: 154-157. Jakle, John (1999). Fast Food: Roadside Restaurants in the Automobile Age. Johns Hopkins University Press. Obesity In America. (2008). The Endocrine Society; The Hormone Foundation. Accessed on 25 May, 2009 at . Schlosser, Eric. (2002). Fast Food Nation. Penguin Books.

Financial strategies of the Confederacy vs. Union governments economic choices

Financial strategies of the Confederacy vs. Union governments economic choices While explaining the economic reality of the Confederacy in times of the Civil War, some fundamentals on the financial strategies of the Confederate and Union governments must be considered.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Financial strategies of the Confederacy vs. Union governments’ economic choices specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More One of the major points, which is to be taken into account, is the Confederacy’s inflation financing. Thus, one is to keep in mind that there is a direct interdependence between the economic strategies of the Confederacy and their military failure. On the other hand, effective financial choices of the Union are mostly associated with the so-called policy of combination. In other words, summing up loans, taxes and notes determined the success of Union governments’ military engagements. The Thesis Statement The analysis of the economic policy of the Confederacy in time s of the Civil War gives us an opportunity to understand how the government’s ability to secure resources to mobilize military forces influences the success of military engagement. The Body Raising Funds As The Government’s Most Important Step To Succeed As far as Southerners’ economic choices were mostly conditional, one can probably conclude that the major mistake of the Confederacy was that they failed in aggrandizement of federal power, when such opportunity was available. Taking into account the fact that the Confederate governments were mostly focused on states’ rights and slavery, one can suppose that their financial strategies were not static. It seems to be obvious that the government’s ability to raise funds, in order to support military strategies development as well as to reinforce administrative capabilities is extremely important for the war effort.Advertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get you r first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Of course, political incentives cannot be neglected, as they also influence financial choices. The Economic Choices Of The Confederacy And The Union The political basis of the Confederacy and the Union concerning war financing gives us an opportunity to trace back the interdependence between economic choices and military outcomes. One of the most important issues, which cannot be ignored, is that â€Å"the key decision-makers on both sides knew each other well from previous experience in Washington; and the military and financial strategies that had been employed throughout the ante-bellum period were common knowledge† (Razaghian 2). In other words, one can make a conclusion that the economic policies of the both sides had to be somewhat similar. In reality, the assumption, however, does not make any sense. It is necessary to remember that the success of the Union can be explained by the government’s right decision to adopt long-term financial strategies. The Confederacy, in their turn, lost time in effortless contemplation. It is a well-known fact that the Confederate government decided to leverage tax power, when such actions were not already necessary. According to Razaghian, the major mistake of the Confederacy was that â€Å"they relied on loans and non-interest bearing notes† (3), while the success of the North can be explained by its government’s decision to collect taxes.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Financial strategies of the Confederacy vs. Union governments’ economic choices specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The Importance Of The Key Political Interpretations Generally, there are many opinions on the reasons of the Confederacy’s failure. For instance, the viewpoint that â€Å"the Confederacy lost because of disagreements between Jeffersonian governors and an increasingly centralized r egime in Richmond† (Beringer et al. par. 2) is criticized by many historians, as the key political interpretations seems to be omitted. Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation And Its Meaning Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation is also to be highlighted, as it increased the chances of Union military victory. Thus, one is to keep in mind that the impact of proclamation was mostly positive, as the Union gained the support of the masses, including the African-American population. Moreover, it should also be pointed out that the inhaitants of both unoccupied and occupied territories provided the North with support. The Demands Of The War So, taking into consideration the financial policies of the sides, one can conclude that taxation can be regarded as the most appropriate strategy to succeed. However, there is a need to state that the demands of the war must be controlled. In other words, as far as the demands can be changed, the government is to react immediately. Thus , new demands require new financial policies to be adopted. For the Confederacy, the understanding that taxes had to be increased came too late. Thus, one of the members of the Confederate government stated: â€Å"We have been compelled to issue a large quantity of Treasury notes, when, perhaps, it would have been more to the true interest of the country to have resorted at first to high taxation† (â€Å"Southern Historical Society Papers† 458-459).Advertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The Conclusion Finally, it is necessary to point out that irrational and short-term economic choices of the Confederacy led to their failure in the Civil War. Immediate mobilization of military resources and reconsideration of certain economic requirements, however, cannot be regarded to be saving, as the North’s resources were more powerful. If the Confederate governments relied on taxation in time, the only effect they could achieve is to limit the resources of the North; although military success could not been gained anyway. It is the interdependence between political incentives and economic choices, which is of primary importance; as the incentives determine military outcomes. Beringer, Richard, Herman, Hattaway, Archer, Jones and William N. Still, Jr. Why the  South Lost the Civil War. Athens: The University of Georgia Press, 1986. Print. Razaghian, Rose. Financing the Civil War: The Confederacy’s Financial Strategy,  2004. â€Å"Southern Historical Society Papers.† New Number Series, 13 (1958):51. Print.

Scholarship Essay

Scholarship Essay Scholarship Essay I am the kind of person that becomes relentless when my sights are set on a target. When I determine my priority, I make every adjustment necessary to align my actions and thoughts towards that goal. This is something I have learned about myself during my transition into college. No matter what the endeavor, I am tenacious and resourceful enough to achieve success. This trait, as I have discovered, is perfect for scoring the highest possible grades in my university coursework. Some of my friends from my hometown barely recognize me because of the vast transformation I have undergone to become a scholar. Before coming into college, my priorities were not aligned with a desirable long term outcome. Georgia State University has provided me the perfect platform to set positive goals, and then accomplish those goals via the abundance of resources and opportunities available to me. I have never held myself to a higher standard than I do now. I will spend hours upon hours in the library to absorb the information from my courses. I am not satisfied with myself until I can not only regurgitate the information as it is written in the chapter or lecture, but also analyze and interpret the content in a way that I understand without ambiguity. My grade point average is one reflection of my insatiable desire to exceed my curriculum. I also have extracurricular aspirations that will advance my professional and personal goals. My work with a major programming board on campus, Spotlight Programs Board, provides me valuable information about event logistics and networking that are crucial to my success as an independent

Memory1 essays

Memory1 essays Memory is defined as the faculty by which sense impressions and information are retained in the mind and subsequently recalled. A persons capacity to remember and the total store of mentally retained impressions and knowledge also formulate memory (Webster, 1992). We all possess inside our heads a system for declassifying, storing and retrieving information that exceeds the best computer capacity, flexibility, and speed. Yet the same system is so limited and unreliable that it cannot consistently remember a nine-digit phone number long enough to dial it (Baddeley, 1993). The examination of human behavior reveals that current activities are inescapably linked by memories. General competent (Baddeley, 1993) behavior requires that certain past events have effect on the influences in the present. For example, touching a hot stove would cause a burn and therefore memory would convey a message to not repeat again. All of this is affected by the development of short-term memory (STM) and lo ng-term memory (LTM). Memories can be positive, like memories of girlfriends and special events, or they can be negative, such as suppressed memories. Sexual abuse of children and adolescents is known to cause severe psychological and emotional damage. Adults who were sexually abused in childhood are at a higher risk for developing a variety of psychiatric disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and mood disorders. To understand the essential issues about traumatic memory, the human minds response to a traumatic event must first be understood. The memory is made up of many different sections with each having different consequences on one another. Can people remember what they were wearing three days ago? Most likely not, because the memory only holds onto what is actively remembered. What a person was wearing is not important so it is thrown out and forgotten. This type of unimportant information passes t...

Life and accomplishments of W. E. B. Du Bois Essay

Life and accomplishments of W. E. B. Du Bois - Essay Example After graduating from Harvard as the first African American with a doctorate, he becomes a professor of History, sociology and economics at Atlanta University. Throughout his life, it is estimated that Du Bois wrote over four thousand articles, essays, and books. As a result of his contributions, many university and government institutes have been named after Du Bois and currently he even has a face book appreciation group. His contribution to societal development through activism and scholarly work has been applauded by many scholars. He underwent a lot of hardships to accomplish his doctorate degree at Harvard University which was a remarkable achievement as was he was considered the first African American to earn such kind of honor. Through his determination and need to see a society free from racism and discrimination he cofounded National Association for Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). His contribution to African studies has been evidenced through his scholarly writings m ore so touching African American way of life. For example, According to Gooding (178), Du Bois contributions particularly provided an important but often overlooked perspective of Africana culture, history and philosophy. He also participated in the redevelopment of Africana studies and relating it to the events of the 21st century. Among his major scholarly works included The Philadelphia Negro and The Souls of Black Folk these books endeavored to show that Africans had same capabilities as their fellow whites and there was no reason for discrimination. On the other hand, his contribution to Africana philosophy of education was through such writings that demonstrated intellectual struggle, personal sacrifice, group leadership, and African historical and cultural grounding in understanding Africana studies. Through such contribution it has provided a pedagogical paradigm that helps to understand and explain African ability to excel. W. E. B. Du Bois has also been hailed for his exem plary political activism which contributed to black liberation, racial justice and the liberation of poor masses. Throughout his career life, Du Bois was instrumental in championing women liberation and black liberation. His writings particularly provided an important insight on Africana history, culture, and philosophy–informed framework for redeveloping Africana studies and crises associated to it in the 21st century. He has also been important in the development of critical social theory making Africana studies multicultural in its approach. The scholar has also contributed to Africana studies through relating critical theory to radical political mentality. Additionally Du Bois’s theoretical perception and pragmatic findings were trend setting as he challenged ideologies about black inadequacy. Unlike others during his reign Du Bois enhanced his theoretical beliefs on black dilemma, and the black middle class with experienced research documenting structural racism a s the major perpetrator of racial inequality. Throughout his teen years Du Bois developed an interest in race relation and went ahead to become the local correspondent for the New York Globe. He spent two years at the University of Berlin in Germany studying economics and history. During his studies in Germany, Du Bois saw the frequency of racism in a globalized context. Du Bois worked in a

Arab-Israeli Conflict and its impacts on International relations Research Paper

Arab-Israeli Conflict and its impacts on International relations - Research Paper Example That action immediately led to the first military conflict between Israel and few Arab countries, followed by a series of major Wars as well as minor conflicts between them throughout the second part of the 20th century. Among these conflicts, the Suez Crisis and the Six Day War were considered to be the important wars, because those wars not only impacted the geographical ‘make-up’ of the area but also impacted the international relations of various countries. That is, the international relations of the involved Arab states, Israel as well as then superpowers, United States and Soviet Union underwent changes, with alignments and realignments happening. USA and Soviet Union played ‘major’ roles in impacting or even ‘dictating’ many countries’ international relations in that period. Because of that role, equations between them, as well as their relations with the Arab states and Israel evolved maximally due to the Arab-Israeli conflicts impacting the International relations from 1945. Although, during the First Arab-Israeli conflict, USA and Soviet Union sided with Israel, realignment started happening before the Suez crisis and during the Six Day War, wit h Soviet Union siding with the Arab states, while USA supported Israel and also tried its best to maintain its neutral stance. This paper will discuss how Arab-Israeli conflicts reached the crescendo during the Suez Crisis and the Six Day War impacting the international relations of not only the involved countries but also other major countries. Genesis of the Conflict Before the World War I (1914-1918), the present day territories of Israel and Palestine were under the control of the Turkish Ottoman Empire.1 However, with the Arabs feeling discriminated under Turkish control, they fought and drove out the Ottomans with the aid of the British, who were against the Ottomans for their support of Germany. British elicited the support of the Arabs to fight against the Ottomans by promising to give them, the conquered land. In 1916, the British Commissioner in Egypt, Sir Henry McMahon gave a promise to the Arab leadership that in the aftermath of the war, former Ottoman provinces can be given to them. â€Å"I am empowered in the name of the Government of Great Britain to give the following assurances†¦Great Britain is prepared to recognise and support the independence of the Arabs in all the regions within the limits demanded by the Sherif of Mecca.†2 However, in 1917, the British Foreign Minister Arthur Balfour gave another commitment to the leading Zionist leader, Lord Rothschild that Britain is committed to â€Å"the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people†, which came to be referred as the as the Balfour Declaration. 3 When the British got the territories through the League of Nations in the aftermath of the First World War, they minimally allocated the territories to the Arabs, and kept Palestine under their control.4 This mixed stance of the British continued for years to come. During these years, there was heightened inflow of the Jews into these territories. The Jewish Immigration to the Holy Land, which was go ing on since the 1880s

Historical Perspective on Motivation Term Paper

Historical Perspective on Motivation - Term Paper Example In any activity, the importance of motivation cannot be overemphasized. There are a whole range of historical factors that have a great influence on the study of motivation in the workplace. This paper provides a historical perspective of the motivational behavior in human psychology, and discusses how teachers can enhance the motivation levels of the students to help them improve their academic performance in light of the theories of motivation. Characteristics of Agrarian Societies The history of food production has been greatly influenced by the land cultivation by means of plough. People made use of animals to increase their land productivity as the animals helped them bring the soil’s nutrients to the top. The yield of crops was particularly increased by combining the techniques of irrigation with plough. â€Å"The invention of the plow, about 6,000 years ago, was an event so significant that many still speak of it as the â€Å"agricultural revolution†Ã¢â‚¬  (Elw ell, n.d.). This also enabled people to make the fallow land cultivatable. The agricultural societies increased in size as the burden of people busy in other activities was reduced. These societies led to the establishment of political institutions such as the formalized bureaucracy and played an important role in the evolution of different socioeconomic classes in the society; particularly into a class that owned the land and another class whose people worked on the lands of others as farmers. Factors characterizing the Agrarian societies included but were not limited to family businesses, stability, and use of simple tools for agricultural purposes. Since the agrarian societies have always played the main role in bringing economic stability and...   The history of food production has been greatly influenced by the land cultivation by means of plough. People made use of animals to increase their land productivity as the animals helped them bring the soil’s nutrients to the top. The yield of crops was particularly increased by combining the techniques of irrigation with plough. â€Å"The invention of the plow, about 6,000 years ago, was an event so significant that many still speak of it as the â€Å"agricultural revolution†Ã¢â‚¬  (Elwell, n.d.). .The agricultural societies increased in size as the burden of people busy in other activities was reduced. These societies led to the establishment of political institutions such as the formalized bureaucracy and played an important role in the evolution of different socioeconomic classes in the society; particularly into a class that owned the land and another class whose people worked on the lands of others as farmers. Factors characterizing the Agrarian societies i ncluded but were not limited to family businesses, stability, and use of simple tools for agricultural purposes. Since the agrarian societies have always played the main role in bringing economic stability and prosperity in the world, advancement of their agricultural productivity is obligatory so that the growing demand of food production can be met. In the modern history, the industrial revolution caused the transformation of the society from the agrarian and handicraft economy to an economy controlled, led, and governed by machinery and industry.  

What can Nigeria learn from the previous mistakes in electricity Research Paper

What can Nigeria learn from the previous mistakes in electricity liberalisation - Research Paper Example The industrial policy decisions and public finances, the physical characteristics of supply, the magnitude of capital requirement and size of industry, and the complex and close relationships between the industry and other significant economic elements all combine to impose challenges to the liberalization process. During electricity industry the liberalization in Brazil, Argentina, and Peru, various mistakes occurred, though these industries are the road to set successful models. Currently, Nigeria is liberalizing her energy industry, and may draw upon the earlier flaws of these models to fortify the sector. This paper seeks to present a discussion on the fundamental mistakes and discuss the way forward for Nigeria. Privatization is a term that evokes sharp political reactions. The concept covers a great range of policies and ideas, varying from reasonableness to impractical. Despite the variation and the somewhat unclear meaning, privatization has unequivocal political objectives and origins. Proposals for privatization not only return the service to the original private sphere but also seek to create new types of market relations and assure results superior or comparable public programs. In essence, privatization refers to the transfer of government assets or services to the private sector. The state may sell some of its assets to private investors, or alternatively lift statutory restrictions on competition between publicly and privately owned enterprises. Furthermore, by the state may be contract out services that it initially provided. The primary objective of privatization is to increase government efficiency1. Nonetheless, implementation of this concept may result in either negative or po sitive effects on government’s revenue. Essentially, privatization is the opposite of nationalization. Reasons for Privatization In general, privatization of the electricity industry in Nigeria was a result of the desire to increase efficiency and competitiveness, as well as the belief that the market place powers can achieve this more efficiently and effectively than state control. Nonetheless, given the previous history of government participation in services and goods production in Nigeria, and the prevalent history of crisis in these public enterprises, the process of privatization in Nigeria has various expected objectives. First, privatization is a way to inject market discipline to the board members, as the board must reflect the interests of shareholders, primarily the private sector investors whose interest lie with profit maximization. Second, the process results

ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE PLAN Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE PLAN - Assignment Example In evaluating the implementation of a new project or delivery method in an organization, what would be the critical data sources you would use to measure the financial outcomes? In evaluating the implementation of a new project or delivery method in an organization, the best critical data sources one would use to measure the financial outcomes are the balance sheet and income statement, especially in the health care organization. Steven Berger (2007) theorizes the financial analyst can compare the variance between the financial statements indicated as prior to the implementation of the new project or delivery in an organization and the financial statemetns indicated as after the implementation of the new project or delivery in an organization. For example, the financial analyst will determine if the health care organisaton’s sales had increased after the implementation of a new project or delivery method by comparing such sales with the sales generated before the implementatio n of the new project or delivery method. An increase in the sales will indicate the change was beneficial to the health care organization.

What can Nigeria learn from the previous mistakes in electricity Research Paper

What can Nigeria learn from the previous mistakes in electricity liberalisation - Research Paper Example The industrial policy decisions and public finances, the physical characteristics of supply, the magnitude of capital requirement and size of industry, and the complex and close relationships between the industry and other significant economic elements all combine to impose challenges to the liberalization process. During electricity industry the liberalization in Brazil, Argentina, and Peru, various mistakes occurred, though these industries are the road to set successful models. Currently, Nigeria is liberalizing her energy industry, and may draw upon the earlier flaws of these models to fortify the sector. This paper seeks to present a discussion on the fundamental mistakes and discuss the way forward for Nigeria. Privatization is a term that evokes sharp political reactions. The concept covers a great range of policies and ideas, varying from reasonableness to impractical. Despite the variation and the somewhat unclear meaning, privatization has unequivocal political objectives and origins. Proposals for privatization not only return the service to the original private sphere but also seek to create new types of market relations and assure results superior or comparable public programs. In essence, privatization refers to the transfer of government assets or services to the private sector. The state may sell some of its assets to private investors, or alternatively lift statutory restrictions on competition between publicly and privately owned enterprises. Furthermore, by the state may be contract out services that it initially provided. The primary objective of privatization is to increase government efficiency1. Nonetheless, implementation of this concept may result in either negative or po sitive effects on government’s revenue. Essentially, privatization is the opposite of nationalization. Reasons for Privatization In general, privatization of the electricity industry in Nigeria was a result of the desire to increase efficiency and competitiveness, as well as the belief that the market place powers can achieve this more efficiently and effectively than state control. Nonetheless, given the previous history of government participation in services and goods production in Nigeria, and the prevalent history of crisis in these public enterprises, the process of privatization in Nigeria has various expected objectives. First, privatization is a way to inject market discipline to the board members, as the board must reflect the interests of shareholders, primarily the private sector investors whose interest lie with profit maximization. Second, the process results

The Walt Disney Method Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Walt Disney Method - Research Paper Example He is achievements are evidenced by the creation of a successful business empire that holds its basis on the creativity he developed together with ideas. Disney’s innovative method of working remains relevant until the date and a majority of organizations still emulate the process referred to as Disney approach although it took a further development from Robert Dilts. The paper, therefore, examines Walt Disney approach as well as its usage in professional practice. The method is based on creativity with the aim directed at achieving a result that borrows from the best ideas through the elimination of the unimportant ones in the creativity process. The technique is based on Disney’s success where he managed in turning what appears as fantasies into ideas. Robert Dilts further developed the creativity technique of Disney to achieve the heights of a national language processing tool where companies across the American population perceived the method as essential in enhanci ng in achievement of organizational goals and strategies (Unamuno et al., 2007, pg 67). Organizations borrowed and still continue to borrow from the method, to enhance in presented well revised and coordinated set of ideas before embarking on any project. The most important point from Disney towards the development of the method relates looking at an issue from a different perspective as well as including all those ideas in the conclusion. Whenever Disney developed an idea for a film prepared for the public.  

Ethical Lens Essay Example for Free

Ethical Lens Essay During the Ethical Lens Inventory exercise that I did, I learned that I do not really have a personal preferred ethical lens. I see the gifts and the weaknesses of each lens and I am able to move fluidly among them to adapt the right tools to each situation to assure the best outcome. I am able to use my reasoning skills to determine my duties, as well as the universal rules and the systems that will assure fairness and justice for everyone. I also listen to my intuition to determine the greatest good for each individual, as well as the virtues that will best serve the community. I have either a mature ability to use the right tools in a given situation or a paralyzed belief that everyone has a valid point. Although each of us has preferred lens, some who are ethically mature and able to use the tools of all the lenses, adapting them as appropriate in a given situation, test in the center of the grid. Others who test in the center of the grid actually have underdeveloped ethical skills. Those without skills tend to be paralyzed by their ability to see all sides and are too desperate to please everyone. I personally think I do more of the being desperate to please everyone than the not being able to see all sides of the situation. I was able to get this information from the exercise I did at: http://www. ethicsgame. com/Exec/Eli/EthicalLensResults. aspx? R=1 My Core Values are: Autonomy, Equality, Rationality and Sensibility. I value autonomy and equality equally and I value rationality and sensibility equally. My Classic Values are: Temperance, Prudence, Justice and Fortitude. I am able to manifest all four classic virtues depending on what the circumstances require. My Key Phrase is: â€Å"I make ethical choices for myself and others. † I am able to see myself and others clearly, therefore I do not make assumptions about why people act the way they do or how things should be done. My Definition of Ethical Behavior is: Doing the Right Thing. I tend to hold this high standard for myself but I do not judge others who fall short, so long as their intentions were honorable. My Tools for Analyzing Problems are: Reason, Experience, Authority and Tradition. I am comfortable using all available tools to analyze a problem. These can include critical thinking skills, reference to experts, my own past experience and the traditions of the community. My Gift to the community is balance among all four lenses, because I can see the benefits of each of the lenses and I can use the tools of all of them. The mature expression of this position has no blind spot. I am able to see both the strengths and the weaknesses of each lens and to harmonize the four core values of autonomy, equality, rationality and sensibility. Discernment comes with ethical maturity and provides direction in specific situations. My Risk is: Inaction. I run the risk of seeing everything and deciding nothing if I am not self-aware. As one who sees the legitimacy of everyone’s point of view, I am particularly prone to delay or outright inaction. My Temptation is: Superiority. Believing that my balanced vantage point gives me a superior ability to resolve ethical dilemmas, I may convince myself that I have all the answers and do not need any input from others. My Vice is: Insistence on Agreement. By insisting that everyone validate all points of view as I do before moving forward, I become tyrannical and may actually provoke dissenters into sabotaging the process as the only way they feel they can maintain the integrity of their different viewpoint. My Crisis is: Confusion. Unless I develop the practice of mindfulness and reflection, at some point I will become confused and find that I have lost my moral compass. The downside of being able to see everyone else’s perspective is that I can lose track of my own. My Seeing Clearly is: Listen to my heart; use my head; act with confidence. To see more clearly, I need to first consider the nature of the problem. Then I need to use both my head and my heart to discern which course of action will best manifest interdependence. Once I have assessed the ramifications of the various options, I will need to act with confidence and courage. Although there may be more than one way to resolve a problem, some actually are better than others. I think I could use my personal ethics to determine a course of action by knowing how I feel about the situation along with all the circumstances involving the situation.

The Structure Of The Supermarket Industry Economics Essay

The Structure Of The Supermarket Industry Economics Essay This assignment will provide a critical analysis of how a Multinational Enterprise Operates domestically but have foreign ownership by looking at how it creates value, analyzing the industry structure in which it operates and the strategies that it uses within that Industry. As the local markets throughout the world are being deregulated and liberalized foreign firms are looking to locate part of the production process in other countries where there are cost advantages. These might be cheaper sources of labor, raw materials and components or have preferential government regulation. 1.1 Foreign Ownership: Shoprite brand is South Africas largest food retailing which comprises 309 Shoprite outlets. Shoprite goes as back to 1997, started as a small chain of supermarkets. Today Shoprite has managed to increase its operation outside South Africa from one store in Lusaka, Zambia in 1995, to 71 stores in 16 countries, Tanzania being among those countries that Shoprite has its operations. In December 2001 the first Shoprite store in Tanzania was opened at Pugu Road giving a wide range of quality products at affordable prices. Currently Shoprite have four stores in Tanzania, Mlimani City in Mlimani Mall in Dar es Salaam kilombero in Arusha, Pugu Road and Mayfair Plaza in Dar es Salaam. With a wide range of products and at lower prices, always Shoprite has attracted many customers over the years. 2.0 Analysis of an Industry Structure: 2.1The Industry Examining the Supermarket industry through Porters 5 forces (as shown below) shows that the Supermarket industry is intensely competitive, particularly in the low price segment, this competitiveness results from a high bargaining power of consumers, meaning they are able to shop around and switch at no cost . Despite high capital requirements, the threat of entry from new competitors is high in the supermarket industry, with new planned entrants in the future years. 2.2Threat of Substitutes- over all threat Medium as industry is susceptible to changes in the economy/income. More people choosing to go to markets and purchase their needs. Generic substitution- Disposable income spent elsewhere, if economy enters a recession consumers are likely to spend money elsewhere ( small shops rather than in Malls and supermarkets) 2.3 Bargaining power of suppliers- overall supplier power is Low/Medium and changes with the external environment. Food Producers have high cost of production and supermarket can easily take the advantage of this during a fall. Large numbers of food producers -Supermarket owners are likely to find the cost of switching to other producer cheaply. 2.4 Bargaining power of consumers overall consumer power is Medium/High Consumers can shop around as there are many supermarkets in markets Low switching costs for consumers- doesnt cost anything to buy products from Game instead of Shoprite. Creation of comparison window shopping, advertisement where consumers will easily be able to compare products prices and just pick the lowest price. 3.0 Threat of Entry from New Competitors It is not only current rivals that pose a threat to firms in an industry; the possibilities that the new firms may inter the industry also affect the competition. Any firm should be able to enter and exit a market and if free entry and exit exists, then profits always should be normal. The capital requirement to enter the industry is high Many supermarkets planned to be opened in the future. Differentiation: There is no gap in the market- already many existing supermarket. Expected retaliation is high from existing Supermarket, could drop prices to squeeze out new entrants, as demonstrated with Nakumatt 3.1 Competitive Rivalry- HIGH High threat of substitutes Competitors are in balance There are high fixed costs There is no differentiation in the industry 4.0 External Analysis Through analyzing the external environment is easy to understand the industry and make strategic decisions. The purpose of Shoprite external analysis is to understand what may affect the future of the company as a whole. Pastel Analysis: 4.1 Political: these refer to government policy such as the degree of intervention in the economy. In the last five years the government of Tanzania has been amending its foreign policies by providing conducive environment to encourage multinational companies and investor to invest in Tanzania. This is an opportunity for Shoprite since there is going to be free movement of labor, goods, within the east Africa countries. 4.2 Technology: New technologies create new products and new processes. Technology is fast growing in Tanzania such as introduction of ATMs, increase in number of telecommunication companies, with recently introduction of Fiber Optic internet which will give more access of information to individual people. This is opportunity to Shoprite to use the advantage of internet, radio, and magazine to market its products. For examples in last ten years there were few ATMs which bores many customers and businesspersons, because they had to make a huge line into banks for them to do transactions but now is not the same people are more reliable using ATMs which facilitates transaction. Also Telecommunication companies have introduced new technology of money transfer such as M Pesa and Zap which give easy movement of money. On line shopping, and computer aided design are all improvement s to the way the business is done as the result of technology. Through technology Shoprite can reduce costs an d encourage innovation. These developments can benefit consumers as well as the organization produce the products. 4.3 Economical These include interest rates, taxation changes, economic growth, inflation and exchange rates. The increase of fuel cost can result into high cost of production hence affects the price of product to final consumers. The global economic crisis can have a huge impact to Shoprite as multinational company in its operation likewise to demand of individual is ultimately to be affected. 5.0 Internal Analysis To understand a successful of Shoprite, the internal strategic capabilities must be understood. This section will focus on identifying the key internal strengths and weaknesses (from SWOT). This will be achieved by examining the resources and competencies for Shoprite, applying the VRIO model to these resources and looking at the performance of various business functions within the organization. An organizations resources can be Physical, Reputation, Organization, Financial, Intellectual and Technological (Johnson et al, 2004) the below analysis shows the full extent of Shoprite resources and capabilities and only the key factors will be drawn upon here. Although Shoprite has very strong branding and recognition across Africa, it does not necessarily mean that they have a good reputation or good customer relations. It is one of the low price profit making in the supermarket industry yet they have a bad reputation for not purchasing local commodities and have bad relationship with local farmers who produce vegetables. Most clients complain much on how Shoprite operates, they feel the company just takes their money and have nothing in return to society. As referred to earlier, Shoprite has a very simple, yet effective organizational set up based on the low cost strategy which the owners feel is key to Shoprite success. 5.1 Key factors of this strategy are: Improve distribution over the past 12years, Shoprite has expanded its thrust northward beyond South Africa borders. Currently, 198 corporate outlets serve consumers in 16 countries outside of South Africa (fastmoving, 2009). By open more outlets allows Shoprite to widen market share which increase company profit. By using differentiation strategy Shoprite have been able to segment its customer in different categories. Shoprite is composed of the group checkers, checkers hipper, Ushoprite save, House and home, Ok furniture and Ok franchise Division , for example Shoprite focuses on customers from the middle to lower-income consumers in the living standards measurement 3to8. Low prices this has attracted a large group of customers who their purchasing power is low. 6.0 SWOT ANALYSIS 6.1 Strengths and Weaknesses The key strengths identified from Shoprites internal operations are their stable financial position, good branding, a responsive organizational structure, a strong management team and strong distribution operation. With the strong financial, good branding and strong management has been a motivation for the company growth. Currently Shoprite has 382 operation stores across Africa and one in India. The group continued to extend merchandise ranges upward to cater for a broadening middle class, while retaining the full selection of staple products (Annual report Shoprite). Despite the current depressed economic environment Shoprite is looking five years ahead in planning for growth, intends opening 23 stores in the 2010 financial year. The main weaknesses are its bad reputation for not purchasing local commodities/ products and bad relationship with the local farmers and individuals. Shoprite is taking advantage of its strength (low price strategy) and key competencies (strong brand) to sustain a competitive advantage. The Shoprite (and management team) may not have the best reputation in the industry but does this matter? Shoprite has been extremely successful financially and look set to continue this success in the future, high profit and keeping costs low is the strategy that they are successfully achieving. 6.2 Opportunities and Threats After examining the Strength and weakness it can be seen that there area a variety of factors that need to be taken to the consideration. Shoprite has already taken advantage of key opportunity buy branding and positioning itself as the first Multinational Retailing in Tanzania. After Government provide good business environment such as laying of goods regulations many foreign investor have been interested to invest in Tanzania this can be a threat to Shoprite. Also by introduction of the many banks in Tanzania that has enabled many local entrepreneurs to get loans and open mini supermarket in small towns which is the big threat since more people will be motivated to go those stores and that can reduce Shoprite market share. The key opportunity identified in this market are the increased target market from EAC (East Africa Community ) expansion previously there were only three country but now there five countries where Sudan in the process of the joining the community . Since there w ill be free movement of people within the membership countries hence will increase demand. Shoprite have already taken advantage of internet expansion and this will provide further opportunities ad the internet expansion (introduction of Fiber Optic) that allow online Shopping ( E commerce ) . 6.3 VRIO: A model which allows insight into whether the organizations resources and capabilities translate to the potential for sustained competitive advantage (Johnson et al) Value Rareness Imitability Organization Physical Yes Yes No Yes Reputation Yes No Yes Yes Organization Yes No Yes Yes Financial Yes Yes No Yes Intellectual Yes Yes Yes Yes Technology Yes No Yes Yes 7.0 Key Competencies: Good brand awareness-Shoprite has a strong presence in the public eye which has increase awareness its brand across Africa. Likely in Tanzania Shoprite has large market share because it was the first large Supermarket to be opened. Organizational Structure-Through jointure and opening of many branches and using low price strategy has helped Shoprite to satisfy customer needs. Advance Technology-All Shoprite supermarkets, wherever they are` located, are now equipped with the latest scanning equipment and linked directly to the groups main compture centre. This direct access has great improved stock control and replenishment and using the sales analysis provided enabled store management to monitor closely consume acceptance of product not previously available in a particular outlet. Financial Stability-Despite the groble Economic recession the company total turnover has grown to 20.9%. It benefited from the employment created by the mega infrastructural projects being under taken with a view to the 2010 FIFA world cup in South Africa and the increase in the number and size of social grants. 8.0 The Economic Impact of the MNE Mnes may affect many aspects of countrys economy -balance of payments, growth, employment objectives, and so forth. Under different conditions, these effects may be positive or negative, either for the host country or the home country. In addition, potential gains to host countries go up as local environments become more attractive for FDI. 8.1 BALANCE -OF PAYMENTS EFFECTS Why will Tanzania wants capital inflows? Because such inflows give the country the foreign exchange it needs to import goods and service and to pay off foreign debt. Keep in mind that FDI brings both capital inflows and capital out flows. For the government will be much concerned about the net balance of payment effect and about the possibility that when the books are ultimately balanced, the effect of their net balance of payments may be negative. Lets see what Tanzania will benefit from MNEs. A MNE investment in country may result in a significant injection into the economy of the country. This may provide jobs directly of through the growth of local subsidiary business such as banks, insurance. It may be initiate a multiplier process generating more income as newly employed workers spend their wages on consumption. MNEs May provide training and education for employees thus creating higher skilled labor force. These skills may be transferred to other areas of the country. Often management and entrepreneurial skills learned from MNEs are an important source of human capital. MNE contributes tax revenue to the government and other revenue s if they purchase existing national assets. 9.0 The Problems of Multinational Enterprises The MNE may employ largely expatriate managers ensuring that incomes generated are maintained within a relatively small group of people. The attraction for the MNE may be the large supply of cheap manual labour who they can employ at low wages. This may contribute to a widening of the income distribution. It will also not lead to the transfer of management skills. MNE investment in LDCs often involves the use of capital intensive production methods. Given that many LDCs are often endowed with potentially large low wage labout forces and have high level of unemployment this might be considered inappropriate technology. More labour intensive production methods might be a more appropriate option for alleviating poverty and aiding development. Any resulting growth might be considered anti-developmental. MNEs engage in transfer pricing where they shift production between countries so as to benefit from lower tax arrangements in certain countries. By doing this they can minimize their tax burden and the tax revenue of national governments. As many MNEs are very large and have considerable power they can next influence on governments to gain preferential tax concessions and subsidies and grants. Outward oriented economists maintain that the cycles of poverty will not be broken from within the domestic economy. The level of investment needed to raise productivity and incomes is not possible .Thus foreign direct investment through the MNE activity is essential. By investing in areas and utilizing the factors of production where the LDCs have an absolute and comparative advantage MNEs will lead to a more efficient allocation of the worlds resources. However if this leads to overspecialization and overdependence in certain sectors of the economy then the host country will vulnerable especially if the MNE decides for commercial reasons to leave the country in the future. 10.0 Action Plan for Implementation Planning is indispensable for a company, not too ensure that they stick to plan put to know when they are deviating from it. Shoprite would need to develop a board that will deal with improving the relationship with the local communities. It would be advisable Shoprite reduce importing of vegetable from South Africa instead buy form local farmers this will reduce cost of production since all goods will be locally production hence enable to lower price. The key changes for Shoprites business functions in implementing this strategy would be for the production department as the majority of others aspects will be handles by the service provider. 11.0 Conclusion MNEs play a major role in the country economy development, whoever the government should be more careful with the MNEs by putting laws that will guide them. Same time government should this opportunity as the key for developing the local industries and businesses which will increase government revenue, hence high Growth Domestic Production (GDP).

Insomnia Essay -- essays research papers

Insomnia comes in many forms and worries people of all ages, most commonly for just a night or two, but sometimes for weeks, months, and even years. Insomnia has many causes. Insomnia is a symptom, much like fever or stomachache. There three symptoms commonly shown by people who have insomnia: difficulty falling asleep, no problem falling asleep but difficulty staying asleep with many awakenings, and waking up too early. Difficulty sleeping at night may be related with the following daytime symptoms: sleepiness, anxiety, impaired memory, impaired concentration, and irritability.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are three basic types of insomnia. The first type is called transient insomnia -- lasting for up to several nights and is usually caused by excitement or stress. Adults may sleep poorly before a key meeting at work or after a quarrel with his or her partner. Many people sleep worse than usual for the first night or two away from home, particularly if they have traveled across many time zones. Nighttime strong physical movements, the flu or other brief illnesses may disrupt sleep temporarily.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The second one is situational insomnia. That is two or three weeks of poor sleep and is often developed during ongoing stress at work or at home. Situations such as job delay, divorced, serious illness or death are primary in this type of insomnia. Relief from the situation that provoked disturbed sleep or accommodation to it usually returns a pers...

Essay on Symbolism, Imagery and Diction in Homer’s Odyssey

Symbolism, Imagery and Diction in Homer’s Odyssey During the course of history, the world has seen many fine works of literature like Homer’s epic, Odyssey. This book is a standard against which to compare all literary novels. The symbolism permeates the pages drawing the reader into the intriguing plot that includes twists within the central theme. Also, the author intelligently uses imagery and diction painting dramatic images in the reader's mind - building upon major the themes. The book contains a captivating use of symbolism making the story more interesting and understandable. This magnetizes the reader into the book. "At the first show of dawn, great Alcinous left his couch, as did that ravager of cities, Odysseus, kinsman of Zeus." (Homer, 79) In this quote, Odysseus is referred to as the kinsman of Zeus who is the supreme god. Here, the word kinsman is used as a symbol to portray Odysseus's strength and bravery. He is so brawny that he has the honour of being called the kinsman of Zeus. Apart from Zeus, there are many other gods mentioned in the book. One can associate each god with some or the other symbol. Zeus announces, "It is Poseidon the world-girdler who is so headily bitter against him..."(6). This quote shows that Poseidon, the god of the sea and earthquakes, is referred to as the world-girdler, which literally means world shaker. Poseidon is given other aliases including earth-shaker, which suit him not only because of his position, but also because of his nature, which is very hot-tempered. The riveting plot includes deception and unexpected twists within the central theme thus adding interest. After the Trojan War, the veterans returned home to their own land to a hero's ... ...rils. (214) As seen by this quote, the words Homer uses, such as spurted, create vividly graphic images in the mind of the reader. The details of how Antinous is killed here help enhance this theme that is exhibited throughout the novel. As displayed above, there is a good use of symbolism in The Odyssey to add to the interest of the reader. Also there are unexpected twists and turns around the central theme to keep the reader in suspense. Finally, Homer ingeniously uses the words to create stunning pictures that help relate to the text, and disclose and heighten key themes depicted in the book. The Odyssey is clearly an exceptional piece of writing that will forever remain a classic. This epic is undoubtedly part of the elite group of books published over the course of time.

Airstar Case Study

Abstract: Airstar’s organizational design is outdated. Former president and actual president have been managing the company under the assumptions of a predicable environment. Airstar is having problems with communication and job-description along the company. Tasks have been assigned superficially and job responsibilities are not descriptive enough. The cross-functional communications among managers is not working effectively and employees have been working up their own job description. Because of that, goal accomplishment is fast becoming obsolete and decisions are being made on the basis of practicality. Also, the company is facing external threats from major competitor such as General Electric and Pratt & Whitney. The stagnation from top managers is causing chaos internally, because business environment is constantly changing and most managers have been in the company for more than twenty years. So, for maximum efficiency, Airstar needs to guide their employee with standards and written guidelines in order to succeed and move forward. Introduction: Airstar Inc. manufactures, repairs, and overhauls pistons and jet engines for smaller, often previously owned aircraft† (Daft, 2008, p. 84). It has a solid history and its strength comes from the fact that it is well known in the market and employee loyalty. However, the rapidly changing industry parallel with the change in the presidency is causing problematic factors for Airstar. A company that has been in the market for twenty years producing customer and employee loyalty now has threat with new arriving business competition and the ever-changing business environment. Unfortunately, Roy Morgan, the president, assumes that he could continue to run the company as it had been twenty years ago. In the past, decisions had been made on the basis of practicality. However, the current environment is in need of changes in duties and management practices. The lack of ample communication concerning duties and how to restructure them for better efficiency is causing internal chaos. So, communication appears to be the Aquiles problem of Airstar. Problems The first significant issue for Airstar is the threat of the changing environment. As Walmart founder Sam Walton said once that advantage competition is not just continue to develop but to stay ahead of competition and the learning curve of its environment (Walmart, Inc. , 2010). To continue to exist, the organization needs to not merely adjust to, but also to influence the changing environment, and in consequence, creating a company worth for its stakeholders. According to the case study, there is a major lack of leadership and coordination. The second significant issue for Airstar is that the current system is neither cooperative, nor strategic intent. Strategic intent means that â€Å"all the organization’s energies and resources are directed toward a focused, unifying, and compelling overall goal† (Daft, 2008, p. 60). It shows that the values established by the founder were never reviewed for the purpose of internal and external changes. The company vision and mission statement are worthless if there are not communicated throughout the various hierarchies of the company. Also, Airstar current system has shown overlap responsibilities between employees. Specific tasks should be assigned to employees that are better suited for these tasks. Another significant issue for Airstar is the instability of its external environment. This problem could provoke stressed employees and in consequence, a less effective performance (Rolfe, 2005). Managers should not only communicate effectively, but also listen to employees and be responsive of the way they experience different factors within the company. Such consideration will bring better management strategies not only in assigning the most appropriate duties, but also in managing the stress factor related to required structural adjusts. The last significant issue is the threat created by new competitors. Competitors, who are new to the market, will make every effort to follow solid business principles to attract value customers and gain market share. Airstar is no longer the sole service provider of its industry, and finds itself in an environment that is quickly changing. Here is where the mature organization comes to play. Airstar has been known for its safety, superior quality, and customer service. These are strengths that can be hard to conquest and could possibly allocate Airstar ahead of its competitors. Interventions Jim Robinson, vice president of manufacturing, pointed it out six principles that appear to focus on internal changes and could provide Airstar with a better position to handle external environmental changes and a stronger internal structure. First, formalization is lacking because of the long lifetime of the company without written rules and regulations. It is recommended that Airstar begins its internal renovation process by creating a list of recommended rules, regulations, and policies. Second, these initiatives are communicated in writing, so it can provide managers and employees with the opening to comment. Then, after being implemented in writings takes place, meetings could be held to discuss comments. Third, it is recommended that Airstar creates a mission statement, a number of goals for future that relate to it, and strategies to arrive at these goals. Then, after implementing the goals and tasks to achieve internal productivity, Mr. Morgan should assign appropriate personnel members to avoid the overlapping that has been occurred in the past. Furthermore, the external environment requires to be monitored on a frequent basis so that indispensable responses can be implemented in a timely manner. The monitoring procedure can also be allocated to specific personnel members, who should communicate with top managers via meetings. Fifth, the hierarchy of authority should be established and updated according to the variety of tasks and strategies within the company. As Robinson refers, Airstar’s internal structure should be kept to a minimum. It is a sound standard keeping the internal structure of the company as simple as possible in order to center on goals rather than on endeavoring to manage extensive personnel members and their many duties. Conclusion Airstar has proven to retain a quite considerable, although somewhat lesser, customer base. I believe the company has the potential to recover itself with internal structural changes, as recommended above. Mr. Morgan attitude is very optimistic towards implementing adjustments for the benefit of his company. His willingness to hire a consultant and put into operation suggestions shows that he is serious about fetching his company up to date with the external environment. However, it is important that Mr. Morgan and his entire management team do not make these decisions on an isolated foundation, but that employees should be incorporated in implementing some of the changes. References Daft, R. (2008), Organizational Theory and Design, 10th ed. Mason Ohio, South-Western Cengage Learning. Rolfe, Foreman and Tylee, 2005, Welfare or Farewell? Mental Health and Stress in the Work Place†, Issue 268. Retrieved from Academic Search Complete Walmart, Inc. (2010). Walmart Corporate. Retrieved November 16, 2011, from Walmart Annual Report: http://walmartstores. com/sites/annualreport/2010/

The Road Essay – Cormac Mccarthy

The Road by: Cormac McCarthy Described the novel as a â€Å"gripping, heart-rending story, which explores the depths of despair and savagery beside the heights of love, tenderness and self-sacrifice. † Destruction, survival, isolation, and death are prominent themes in The Road. Most life has been wiped out by some unnamed catastrophic event. Cities are destroyed; plant life is gone; animals have disappeared. Civilization has broken down, and chaos reigns in its place. No matter where the man and the boy go, houses have no roofs and are rotting from the rain and wind. The natural cycle of seasons has been destroyed: it seems to be perpetually winter. Even the stability of the earth is off-kilter, for an earthquake shakes the ground on the East Coast. In a storytelling style that is stripped as bare as the novel’s setting, McCarthy recounts the journey of an unnamed man and boy, in an undefined location, who search among the debris in the aftermath of some cataclysmic event for morsels of food and warmth. Though their lungs are tortured by the thick ash that discolors and taints the air, and their unshod feet are blistered and almost frozen, they trudge forever forward, always hoping for something better, something similar to the past. They rarely find it. And they dare not linger, because other wanderers, likewise cold and hungry, will inevitably come upon them, fighting for the tidbits that the man and boy have found. In stark contrast to the devastated surroundings stands the man and boy’s unshaken devotion to one another. In a landscape where nothing blooms, their love flourishes and grows deeper, even as they wonder all the while which one of them will die first. They keep three things in mind as they move south toward a dream of warmth: they must find food, they must find clean water, and they must continually hide. bib: D. Dona Le, author of ClassicNote. Completed on July 24, 2009, copyright held by GradeSaver. Updated and revised by Adam Kissel September 19, 2009. Copyright held by GradeSaver. McCarthy, Cormac. The Road. London: Picador, 2006. McCarthy, Cormac. No Country for Old Men. London: Picador, 2007. White, J. M. â€Å"The Road (Book Review). Appalachian Heritage. 2006-12-01. 2009-07-20. . Whitmer, Benjamin. â€Å"The Road (Book Review). † The Modern Word. 2006-10-23. 2009-07-18. . Woodward, Richard B. â€Å"Cormac McCarthy’s Venomous Fiction. † The New York Times. 1992-04-19. 2009-07-14. . Kollin, Susan. â€Å"Genre and the Geographies of Violence: Cormac McCarthy an d the Contemporary Western. † Contemporary Literature 42:3 (Autumn 2001): 557-588. JSTOR. TCD Libraries, Dublin, Ireland. 18 July 2009. . Ellis, Jay. â€Å"‘What Happens to Country’ in Blood Meridian. † Rocky Mountain Review of Language and Literature 60:1 (2006): 85-97. JSTOR. TCD Libraries, Dublin, Ireland. 18 July 2009. .

International Business Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

International Business Assignment - Essay Example For instance, Ricarodo-Millian viewpoint indicated, not only did the United States make productivity gains by free trade with Eastern nations even the Eastern nations were able to improve their per capita income, though only up to a fraction of the United States’ per capita income. Moreover, free trading nations could harness the potential of each other’s strengths in exchange for weaknesses. This concept emerged from the way United States traded for certain products, like agricultural produce and manufacturing, with Eastern nations that had huge potential for production of these items, it also exported electronic and technical goods to the Eastern nations that were relatively less evolved in terms of those goods. Classical economics about free trade proposes that such trading actually nullifies all potential imbalances that would eventually follow increased trading between nations. As per Ricardian principles, unemployment is temporary. However, this temporary phase ca nnot be defined as the US labor force has been experiencing job losses for more than 3 decades, which started when the US started free trade with neighboring nations through the NAFTA during 1994 by outsourcing manufacturing jobs to Mexico (Iyer, 2005). This resulted in loss of more than 750,000 jobs in the US. Considering that the same scenario continued with other NAFTA members such as the Philippines, Canada, and some European countries. This resulted in an increased number of exports from these countries into the US, thereby addressing all their economic deficit issues. Following job losses in the manufacturing units of the US, even the service industry began outsourcing jobs to Eastern developing countries like India. This increased job losses for most of the IT and IT enabled service personnel in the US. These shifts in economics and labor markets from economics perspective resulted in bringing about balance between different nations in terms of growth, GDP and per capita inco me. Samuelson (2004) asserts that free trade has only lowered the labor-market by clearing real wages because the market moved to places with high supply of labor at lower wages. However, Giddens (2011) points out that the global electronic economy provides such opportunities to individuals at one corner of the world to actually shake up what once seemed as rock-solid economies. Globalization has pushed many economies downwards by pressurizing local autonomy, as incase of the US and European companies. Some economists believed that job losses would not render people of the rich countries to be idle, but would push them harder towards new inventions, which would benefit their economy. Although inventions have happened in the US, these inventions were insufficient to provide jobs for all jobless people; this further increased economic inequalities in rich nations, like the US, too. Free trade policies have undoubtedly improved living standards of most of the people in developing natio ns, which has thus resulted in an increase in consumption, costs, and demand for manufactured products, natural resources and agricultural produces. Most of the developing nations have liberalized regulations on foreign direct investment, which has given greater push for retailers to expand into newer