Final Exam Civil War Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Final Exam Civil War - Essay Example The Missouri contract of 1820 was a warning signal of the civil war that was looming. When Missouri applied for admission in the United States in 1918, people were awakening on the issue of slavery. At that time, the issue of slavery was very sensitive between the southern pro slavery states and Northern antislavery states. Consequently, the requirements set for Missouri’s’ admission suggested that it had to restrict slavery within its boundaries. Moreover, before its admission, the number of slave states and Free states in congress was equal. The admission of Missouri in either category would result in a shift in power. The admission of Maine as a free state, however, resulted in Missouri’s admission as a slave state with all the benefits that the other slave states enjoyed. Later on, the pro slavery Missouri state presented a law, forbidding legislature to free slaves against their masters’ wishes (McDevitt 121). The southern states felt threatened by the rapid growth of power of the Northern states politically and economically. They feared that the Northern states might stall slavery expansion as they had tried before the Missouri Comprise. The Northern legislators wanted to prevent the spread of slavery to the new states. However, Southern legislators wanted the new states to be allowed to carry out slavery (Burgan 6). This and other differences resulted in the civil War (Gallagher 239). As mentioned earlier, the south was predominantly agrarian. They produced tobacco, cotton and other products, which the north used as raw materials in their industries. Since the Northern States were industrialized, they manufactured most goods thereby benefiting most. They invested the revenues collected in economic expansion. On the contrary, the Southern states who were the producers paid high manufacturing tariffs and other shipping costs. They felt exploited by the North because 90% of their revenue at that time went into taxes

Creative Writing Essay Example for Free

Creative Writing Essay The seven habits described in Stephen R. Covey’s book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, are life-altering improvements that require hard work and commitment to change oneself from within. The book has been considered a milestone in the genre of self-help books. First published in 1989, it has been assisting many people since. The first habit, ‘Be Proactive: Principles of Personal Vision,’ is the foundation, the beginning steps towards effectiveness. The whole point that Covey emphasizes on is that; the manner in which two types of people react, which is similar to the difference between day and night. These people are proactive and reactive; the former focuses on values, the latter on feeling. Nevertheless, proactive people can be said as void of much feelings and emotions. This outlook can be seen as a potential disadvantage to those who seek to bring a change in themselves. Proactive people see love as a verb, not feeling and interactivity is their best tool; a little more than unnerving for many people. The reason for this is that we depend wholly on ourselves alone or on others alone; never believing in interaction. Proactive people consider the ‘I can be’ of themselves whilst, reactive people concentrate on the ‘If I have’ in life. The author says that if we think any problem as being ‘out there’ then that though is the problem. Yet, the author thinks it is innocuous to guide people by motivating them but disregards the thinking process. Pro-activity then, is not much different from reactivity, the strong point of the animal world, if we do not think over what we are about to do (Orsini, 1996). It seems that Covey’s actual point here is self-control which comes foremost when we aim to be morally uncorrupt. Covey has used his own terminology to describe various phrases in the book. For instance, the phrase: inside-out approach in various situations in life. It says that the change from within is more prominent and permanent than a mere change from outside (Weber, 2009). Character sprouts from our attitude and the way we behave; changing it will be the progress. His ‘principles of personal vision’ doesn’t really relate to each other. There is a different concept under every heading in this habit. Every human being has its own set of responsibilities; this idea arouses feelings of uncertainty. It is so very easy to abandon our responsibilities in the name of others’ weaknesses. We cannot accept the fact that everything we do in our life is our decision; even when we are forced. Another aspect of this is that, we ourselves have to take initiatives and provide ourselves with opportunities. It isn’t right if someone keep saying, ‘If I could only be more slim and lean,’ and does nothing about it. If outside authorities mold our choices, we cannot be held answerable for our actions, this defines determinism. Covey defines this as a phenomenon that puts the blame on others. The theory is that we will act in the way that we are trained to do so; by our genetics, psyche or our environment. All in all, the phenomenon doesn’t help in the 21st century because people don’t care anymore if they are socially acceptable. Since the start of this century, we have succeeded in steering clear out of the grasp of so-called conditioning and determinism. Nevertheless, many people do not recognize the amazing ability of our mind to choose the way to respond to a stimulus. Only our body can be reined in but not our mind. We have the incredible power to imagine, of an independent will and self-awareness. To be self-aware is like to be able to see yourself from afar; to assess yourself and the way your mind works. This ability is unique in humans. On the other hand, the philosophy of free will is not accepted by several people. Outside influences only affects those people who let them affect them. When we acquire the skill to create circumstances, we also gain the power to empower them. Just as there was a woman who helped her boss overcome his weakness by compensating her own talents; this made her more trustworthy. It isn’t sufficed to say that, we have no control over the events that takes place in our lives. If the character is built up to concentrate otherwise, then the theory isn’t acceptable to the psyche. The reality is that deep down inside we have a conscience which is always making us aware of what is right and wrong; and yet we can choose to ignore it or be aware of it and do something required to be done. Then it only becomes a question of utilizing it and a choice to be either kind or cruel. At times humans can burry it as deep inside as if it isn’t there at all. The author’s discussion about the Circle of Concern and the Circle of Influence is not very convincing. It is hard for a person to follow the concept and its advantages. It acknowledges the fact, that people usually focus their energy and efforts worrying about futile concerns. There are some incidents which we can only be concerned about and others, which we can successfully mold into a result that we require. We can, directly or indirectly, control some situations in life. This is secondary to our Circle of Influence. It says that we can choose our actions, but not the consequences that come with the actions that we chose. Hence, our actions cannot guarantee that we will not fall. Then the author describes this habit further by saying that, we should accept our mistakes and correct them. In addition, we should also be aware that we cannot undo them, so regret is a pointless exercise. Between both these points is the fact that we can still commit mistakes. The book talks about making and keeping commitments; which we can do so if we start small and grow bigger. Essentially, we will be developing habits by keeping our commitments and achieving goals. A bit far fetched logic, but reasonably sought out. From our language to our response towards people, all things determine our character and the level of our proactive or reactive behavior. No one can hurt us without our permission; we can decide that we are not going to be affected by certain events in our life. The day we accept that we are the ones responsible, that’s the day we truly begin to see ourselves. This habit ultimately aims to build up our character. Deciding to be somebody driven by values, not by having things is a lesson; in accepting the consequences of our actions and eventually keeping our commitments. References Covey, S. R. (2003). The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. New York: Simon Schuster. Orsini, J. (1996). The Stephen Covey Phenomenon—An Evangelization Opportunity. Retrieved June 19, 2009 from http://www. ewtn. com/library/BUSINESS/COVEY. HTM Weber. edu. (2009). Establishing Your Sense of Direction. Retrieved June 19, 2009 from http://faculty. weber. edu/molpin/healthclasses/1110/coveystuff. htm

Man Vs. Himself In The Scarlet Letter by Hawthorne :: essays research papers

A great deal of blood has been shed and many wars have been fought during the history of civilization; however, man’s greatest battle and most formidable enemy is only himself. This has been made only more evident with the passage of time and the development of the human character. However, one factor that has remained constant in the human character through this development is conscience. Conscience can be man’s saving grace or his damning affliction; its presence may simultaneously purify and mar. As contradictory as this may sound, it has been explored in depth by Nathaniel Hawthorne who chronicles one man’s battle against himself in The Scarlet Letter. In this novel, an anguished Arthur Dimmesdale struggles to pacify his conscience and withhold the secret of his sin from being known. As his conscience continues to consume all that is his very essence, Arthur Dimmesdale illustrates Hawthorne’s theme of a sin-stained conscience and redemption only through truth. The novel begins to delve into the heart and conscience of Arthur Dimmesdale when Roger Chillingworth questions him about his thoughts on sinners and their secrets. Feeling full well the torment of his own secret, Arthur proclaims that those who hold such "miserable secrets†¦will yield them up that last day†¦with a joy unutterable." By this expression, Arthur offers a glimpse into his tortured heart and shows how heavy a burden his secret is. When Chillingworth further inquires about such sinful secrets, Arthur holds his hand to his breast, a motion that he carries out as "if afflicted with an importunate throb of pain." Evidently Arthur does this frequently, and the reader is presented with the thought that this gesture possibly is not done as much out of physical suffering as spiritual suffering. Not only is the health of Arthur’s body in question, but the condition of his heart, his soul, is dubious. A supernatural light is later shed upon this question as Chillingworth uncovers the secret Arthur had tried to keep intact. It is visible to him as he pulls aside Arthur’s ministerial robe: a scarlet letter A upon his chest. Although Hawthorne lets this aspect of the novel remain ambiguous, this engraving on Arthur’s chest suggests that the burden of his sin had seeped so deeply within him, it has now forced its way outside; it is at all his levels. At this point in the novel, Arthur’s sin had begun, if it had not already succeeded, in consuming him. Arthur’s conscience was now stained with sin, and its weight will

Dawson’s Creek, the Movie Woo, A Perfect Storm, and A River Runs Through It :: Television Woo Perfect Story River Runs Essays

Dawson’s Creek, the Movie Woo, A Perfect Storm, and A River Runs Through It What is it that improves an author’s writing ability? Is it inborn creativity? In many ways yes, but without a doubt an author’s ability to write comes from skills that he has acquired through everyday life. One of these skills is the combination of watching and reading. It is not just the ability to watch and read, it is how well he can incorporate these skills into a written work. Television and the movie screen can also be tools in a writer’s tool belt. Dawson’s Creek (a television drama) and the movie Woo have aspects incorporated into each whole, these aspects finding comparisons in literature. There is no far stretch required to find a correlation between a screen work and a written work. Since it is not hard to find this correlation between screen work and written work there should be no large task in finding helpful tools in several different genres of literature. The written works A Perfect Storm by Junger and A River Runs Through It written by Ma clean offer literary techniques of their own. How can all of these forms of entertainment contribute to the written word? Television adds many qualities to the nineties life. This is even true of the prime time teen angst drama. Dawson’s Creek (classified with the above prime time teen angst drama) can and does contribute interesting qualities to a written work. This show is a prime example of social interactions. Every character is at least acquainted with every other character, which gives the watcher the chance to see one character in many different situations. The word situation does not always mean social interaction though. Situations encompass the setting also. In television the set is made to be large, bright, and overall catching to the eye. Since a television screen is so small all of the important aspects of the set are brought forth they are easily viewed. This show of blatant importance can help an author decide on what is a really important part of their literature. Television though is not the only tool a writer can take advantage of. Indeed movies can also be of great importance. The motion picture Woo contains several interesting tools, which are readily available to an author. This movie was performed in an English dialect that not many identify with or write with.

Example of Critical Thinking

I dropped out of college 3 times since I graduated from high school. The challenging part about it is that I know I need an education to be successful in life and to support my family but I often get bored with school very fast. If its not interesting or doesn’t grab my attention, I’m not interested. I barely made it out of high school. So this time I felt I had to do something with my life besides living. I decided to go back to school and what was challenging was the decision to even go back to school.Two questions I had about that problem of dropping out were, do I really want to go back to school? What could I do differently that I didn’t do at my last 3 schools I went to? After thinking about the career path that I wanted to work towards, I did my research on different schools with my chosen degree program. The school choices were Phoenix University, Ashford University, and Devry University. My oldest sister attended Phoenix University to become a schoolteac her. She told me stories about her classes, instructors, and difficulty dealing with peers in class.She also had problems dealing with finances for school and they were giving her a hard time. So taking her experience with that school and doing research on my own, I decided that that school would not be a good fit for me, (facts & opinions) My past experiences with online schools and my decision on choosing Ashford for my choice of school to work towards my degree came from wanting a school that will work with my busy schedule and me. I needed Instructors that are willing to help you instead of telling what to do and expecting you to figure out what it is that you’re trying to learning.I needed a school that would be fair and helpful when needed. These things I’ve listed were things I weren’t getting from my past schools I’ve attended. I also had take blame for my action as well. Turning in late work or not at all. Procrastinating to get things done and t urned in on time. I have to focus on my goal and that is to graduate with a degree and become the successful person my grandmother would want me to be. In conclusion, I believe if I work hard, stay focused and do my work I will be successful this go round with school here at Ashford University.

Gatacca essays

Gatacca essays The movie Gattaca is made up of ideas of human spirit and perfection. The society where everyone wants to be perfect. Made men in the world of Gattaca are taught from the beginning of their lives what they have been designed to achieve, they know their expectations and they know their limitations. Jerome is one of the example. Jerome is a perfect baby genetically born. He is a perfect man and couldnt face fall but through the movie, Jerome has proven that he is not a coward and he has redeeming qualities. By meeting Vincent, the invalid or born by love, with clear ambitions and goals, which nobody think he could success. from a young age I came to think of myself as others thought of me, chronically ill, Jerome is given the chance to experience something new and different, the ability to dream about what could be. He shares every part of Vincents transformation into a valid. This includes blood, hair, skin and urine and part where they can take sample from, and helped Vincent to change into a valid, and possible in achieving his dream. Jerome get the chance to learn about the hope of doing something thought impossible, however Jerome got the chance to experience this achievement through Vincents dream. It is the chance to experience something different that makes Jerome think that he got the better end of the deal. After coming second in the swimming race Jerome gave up all he had achieved, feeling his life was useless and not worth living. This lack of motivation was brought up by the society in Gattaca where everyone is going after the perfection they pursue. Everyone wants the best for their babies. Jerome he was told that due to his score of 9.3 he was able to achieve anything, He was genetically born to be champion swimmer. This causes the result that he couldnt take that fact of failure. The burden of perfection and the failing made Eugene attempt to take his own life. I ...

The Journey of Life Essays - Ageing, Gerontology, Demography

The Journey of Life Essays - Ageing, Gerontology, Demography Five-page paper comparing Haber and Gratton with Cole is due. Think in terms of argument, sources, and methods. Essay (5 pages) on two works on American aging is due on March 3 (10%). You will have the opportunity to rewrite this paper (as long as the original draft is submitted on the due date). Revisions will be due one week after I bring graded first drafts to class. Grades on the two drafts will be averaged SUMMARY The Journey of Life is both a cultural history of aging and a contribution to public dialogue about the meaning and significance of later life. The core of the book shows how central texts and images of Northern middle-class culture, first in Europe and then in America, created and sustained specifically modern images of the life course between the Reformation and World War I. During this long period, secular, scientific and individualist tendencies steadily eroded ancient and medieval understandings of aging as a mysterious part of the eternal order of things. In the last quarter of the twentieth century, however, postmodern images of life's journey offer a renewed awareness of the spiritual dimensions of later life and new opportunities for growth in an aging society. 1Aging in the Western tradition: cultural origins of the modern life course 2The aging pilgrim's progress in the New World 3'Death without order': the late Calvinist ideal of aging Part IIThe Dualism of Aging in Victorian America 4Antebellum revivals and Victorian morals: the ideological origins of ageism 5Popular health reform and the legitimation of longevity, 1830-1870 6Aging, popular art, and Romantic religion in mid-Victorian culture 7In a different voice: self-help and the ideal of 'civilized' old age, 1850-1910 Part IIIScience and the Ideal of Normal Aging 8The aging of 'civilized' morality: the fixed period versus prolongevity, 1870-1925 9Toward the scientific management of aging: the formative literature of gerontology and geriatrics, 1890-1930 10The prophecy of Senescence: G. Stanley Hall and the reconstruction of old age Epilogue: beyond dualism and control - reflections on aging in postmodern culture In humanistic fashion, Cole attempts to explore the "historical shoreline of later life, charting its cultural forms and sounding their depths," ultimately arriving at reflections on aging in "postmodern culture." Cole uses this history to probe deeply into the depictions of aging and the aged, their "meaning," and the perceptions they suggest. He is at his best when analyzing the cultural biases of a science that emerged to explain and manage old age. Although he calls upon a wide array of sources to present stimulating and insightful interpretations, Cole focuses on the Western tradition; room still remains for cross-cultural questions from anthropologists and folklorists. Cole, an associate professor at the University of Texas, here explores the evolution of societal attitudes toward aging, gender and familial ideals from antiquity to the present, discussing both political and philosophical influences. He devotes a major portion of this excellent and accessible scholarly study to examining a wide variety of religious beliefs, many of which envision life as a spiritual pilgrimage. However, with the rise of secular individualism, today's ``scientific management'' of aging has prolonged the life span, Cole observes, and liberated older men and women of many burdens and duties. On the other hand, he contends, the elderly have been deprived of their traditional cultural roles, special functions and positions in society. Furthermore, he notes, with a youth-oriented culture that tends to consider aging a chronic disease, the spiritual aspects of growing old and of death as natural parts of the life cycle have been slighted. Illustrations. (Jan.) (c) Copyrigh t PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved This work challenges the assumption of value-free studies of aging and offers a critical evaluation of the meanings of aging in American society. Deftly interweaving religion, economics, gender, health trends, and science, Cole documents the period from the Reformation to post-World War I. Tracing the decline of religious values, the rise of the economic pressures of individualism, and the reliance on scientific management of health, he offers new insights into patterns of behavior. Ian J. Wharton HIST 4003- Aging In World History March 3rd 2016 Paper #1 In The Journey of Life by Thomas R. Cole, Cole looks at the changing outlook on aging over the course of history, but never askes questions on it. An argument he makes however is that we need

Music Video (Madonna) essays

Music Video (Madonna) essays Sally Stockbridge claims that the meaning of rock videos "varies depending upon the context in which they are viewed, and the context or positioning of the viewers or fans." It may be apparent that music video is a social institution where record companies manipulate listeners by using an all-embracing ideology of consumption and where listeners are expected to unconditionally accept the constant ideological meanings of the label's bands, but listeners simply won't respond in a pre-determined manner (Wicke, 1990:79). Music is placed in the context of their everyday life and leisure, and within this context they interpret it using their own meanings and values based on the background of their own social experiences which they have developed over a lifetime. As "consumers" react to music in a class-specific manner, the contexts they place the music in have become more and more densely packed (varied). The music industry has recognised the diversity of the listening audience and have co mprehensively surrounded rock music with a cultural context made up of fashion, magazines, media images and the aura of its stars (Wicke, 1990:79). Thus these contexts develop into sub-cultures which, with their deliberate signs of being different, play an important role in the social conflict over the cultural meaning and value of rock music (Wicke, 1990:80). Youth subculture is positioned in opposition to "parent culture" and thereby is at odds with society's norms as it is perceived by society as a "delinquent culture"; However, this undermines its importance as a legitimate expression of the fan's attitudes, beliefs and values (Leonard, 1997:240). Youth culture is influenced by music video, as it is a vehicle for the issue of youth's "social and moral obligations". Madonna is an extremely socially conscious performer who has noticed this and has addressed the most traditionally hidden part of music culture by allowing fans to adopt her persona (as se...

Confidentiality Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Confidentiality - Essay Example This paper will aim at explaining the importance of maintaining confidentiality in secrets, operations and information basing on information provided by the two investigative reporters in their book. In ‘Top secret America’, the authors provide a list of investigative articles that describe the growth of secret intelligence in the United states after the 9/11 attacks. The book provides a three part series that explains on thousands of companies that work get to work on issues revolving homeland security, intelligence and counterterrorism (Priest & Arkin 5). The book presents the highly secretive world of America’s intelligence that few know about their existence, running costs and operations. The work conducted by these organizations gets highly classified, and the public lacks an idea of what processes get conducted. The high level of confidentiality by the ‘secret American world’ has had its benefits to the country in regards to war against terror. The two investigative journalists, who are also the authors of the book, provide evidence on their frustrations in tracing code names, acronyms without explanation and buildings without addresses (Priest & Arkin 189). In their book, Arkin and Priest reveal of another parallel world existing in America consisting of thousands of federal agencies, private companies and individuals doing ‘top secret work’. They reveal of increased spending on counter terrorism, which does not get accurately accounted for by the federal government (Priest & Arkin 223). The secret work of these agencies gets aimed at protecting the country from potential terror threats. Placing confidentiality in the operations of these agencies is necessary in keeping information regarding military actions and decisions secret from potential enemies. This helps the forces to secretly plan on attacks and detect threats without getting suspected. Maintaining a high level of secrecy and confidentiality also he lps the joint special operations command-JSOC, in their target military operations and reconnaissance. In the book, the authors explain the development of the JSOC into a lethal force and highly secretive command which conduct much work than the CIA currently (Priest & Arkin, 98). According to work conducted by Priest, the author describes JSOC as a force that gets to shape the universe in undetectable ways. Due to its highly secretive stature, the command conduct target military operations such as the one that got to kill Osama Bin Laden. The high level of secrecy maintained in these organizations is vital in alienating target terror threats. This helps the country in fighting against terrorism. The JSOC has turned out into a lethal arm of the military due to the little information that gets shared or is available about it. The high level of secrecy maintained by the JSOC has resulted in people getting curious over this mysterious organization. The high level of confidentiality tho ugh, has also served to assist the country inn getting rid of its enemies since the 9/11 attacks and keeping the country safe (Priest & Arkins 258). The success of the JSOC has resulted from few people knowing about its operations. As a result of its obscurity, the JSOC has got to not only carry out operations in countries that America is at war against but also other states around the globe. From the

Examine the view that dividends are irrelevant to rational investors Assignment

Examine the view that dividends are irrelevant to rational investors when considering the value of shares from a theoretical and empirical perspective - Assignment Example Primarily, when firms make enormous profits, the managers can either decide to use it for expansion by investing in new projects or pay it to the shareholders in the form of dividends. The dividend policy usually guides this process. Dividend policy is the set of guidelines or principles that companies adopt to decide the amount of the profits that shareholders are to receive (Miller and Modigliani, 1961). Even though, the business uses these sets of principles to determine the value of the dividend the decision on whether to pay the dividends or not lies in the board’s decision. In fact, when the board of directors declares the dividends to be paid it becomes a debt to the corporation and cannot be recanted or rescinded quickly. Dividends can either be paid on temporary or permanent basis or sometimes it can be paid once or twice a year. Deangelo (1995) argues that, investors are usually interested not only in the stability of this payment but also the level of dividend payment. From this perspective, therefore, the managers should be aware of the impacts of unexpected changes in the dividend payment to the potential investors. Both the existing investors and potential investors are affected by the changes since such uncertainties could alienate them from investing with the organization. According to Bhattacharya (1979), unstable dividend payment aspect may negatively influence the perception of the investor based on the long term company’s performance in the financial markets. Even though, most economists believe that it is the value and stability of payment of dividends that the investors should rely on while making decisions; research ascertains that this is irrelevant and should warrants sidelining. Many from other schools of thought including Miller and Modigliani believe that what the company pays in the form of a dividend is totally

School Uniforms are Necessary in Todays World Essay

School Uniforms are Necessary in Todays World - Essay Example School Uniforms are Necessary in Today’s World There is a long history of the use of uniforms in school, most coming from the private sector until recent years, all of which demonstrate these benefits do exist. While most of the uniform policies used in public schools include relatively general restrictions, such as navy or khaki pants and solid color shirts with collars without brand name requirements or specific, school-related insignia required, there has still been a great opposition to these policies by people who mistakenly insist that school uniform policies somehow restrict a child’s ability to express him or herself. Examining the history of the use of school uniforms in public schools in this country reveals that requiring school uniforms provides a number of advantages that outweigh any arguments against them. The idea of requiring students to wear uniforms is nothing new and has been used for at least a century to help foster a sense of academia and respect for oneself within the school setting. When President Clinton said â€Å"I believe we should give strong support to school districts that decide to require young students to wear school uniforms†, he had based his opinion on a history of school uniforms having a calming effect on students. In England, school uniforms had been used for years both to distinguish those children who were part of the lower classes, attending schools that provided their uniform clothing for them, and to distinguish those children who were of the decidedly upper class as a badge of honor and social placement.

What kind of education did Cyrus receive in persia and media, and how Essay

What kind of education did Cyrus receive in persia and media, and how did these two education bring out what Cyrus is like by nature - Essay Example ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Xenophon gives an account of Cyrus’s education in his childhood and boyhood first at the court of his father who is the King of Persians and secondly at the court of his father, the king of the Medes. With respect to the Persian constitution, the state educates the children and they learn the art of justice, moderation, and hunting as a way of preparing them for their future engagement in war. The number of citizens is restricted to 120,000 men who are referred to as â€Å"those equal in honor† and comprise those whose parents could give formal education. Any of the citizens (isotimoi) is allowed to hold office but the stress of the Persian constitution is strict law and regulation. If anyone does not fulfill any of the required steps in preparation to becoming a full citizen, then they are disqualified from the citizens’ body. Similarly, decisions concerning justice and rule of law are rigorously upheld. During one of his school days, Cyrus is whipped by his teachers because in a trial case brought before him, he decides in line with common sense instead of the written law. When he is twelve years of age, Cyrus leaves Persia for Medes where he lives at the court of his grandfather, the Medes’ king. Contrary to Persia, life at the court of Medes is excessive. At one time, Cyrus reproves his grandfather for drunkenness and lack of reasonableness. When Cyrus has to decide between remaining at the Medish court or going back to Persia, his mother compares the Medish and the Persian courts in strong terms. The mother describes the two courts as not being in agreement about what justice entails. She describes the Medish kingdom as tyrannical whereas the Persian kingdom is founded on equality which they believe constitutes justice. She describes the king of Persia as very observant on the law rather than his will. She warns Cyrus to be careful lest he is beaten alive when he returns home (Persia) on the ground of the tyrannical rather than kingship

Criminal Procedure in Regards to Search and Seizure Essay

Criminal Procedure in Regards to Search and Seizure - Essay Example Through the study of the differences between two cases that set precedent for the decision of State v. Randolph (2002) in Tennessee, including California v. Hodari D. (1991) and United States v. Mendenhall (1980), these circumstances will be addressed. Also discussed within this paper will be how these decisions impact both law enforcement officers in trying to carry out the duties of their jobs, and how those same decisions can affect those with mental health conditions when faced with search and seizure circumstances. Response Paper Number One: Criminal Procedure in Regards to Search and Seizure Differences in the Decisions Between California v. Hodari D (1991) and United States v. Menedenhall (1980) In the case of State v. Randolph (2002), as reviewed in the Memphis Law Review by Brent A. Heilig, the main issue to be dealt with is, in broad terms, the search and seizure of citizens. Though this practice, according to Mr. Heilig, is supported by Article I, Section 7 of the Tennesse e State Constitution, as well as the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution, it is frequently questioned and cited throughout the case. For purposes of precedent, as with most legal cases, two previously decided cases were given for comparison, United States v. Mendenhall (1980) and California v. Hodari D. (1991). ... Mendenhall (1980), the Supreme Court concluded that if a person believed they were free to leave at any time, they were not seized. This is fairly straightforward. If a person believes that they are not free to leave an area before, during, or after being detained by law enforcement, they have been seized. If they believe that they are free to leave, they are not. However, in the case of California v. Hodari D. (1991), the Supreme Court ruled that a person was not considered â€Å"seized† unless some form of physical restraint was directed at an individual by an officer, or the individual has yielded to some form of authority shown, thus introducing a subjective element. Even the wording of the California v. Hodari D. (1991) decision is subjective; while a â€Å"form of physical restraint† can be interpreted fairly easily, as law enforcement officers have such means at their disposal, the term â€Å"show of authority† cannot. It is not defined, exactly, what a sh ow of authority is, whether it is calling for a suspect to halt, activating flashing lights on a patrol car, or simply showing some form of identification as a law enforcement officer. Regardless, the main point is that if they do not submit, they are not considered seized. The second main difference highlighted between the two decisions is that instead of moving in a broader direction as far as seizure parameters were concerned, California v. Hodari D. (1991) moves in the other direction completely. As per United States v. Mendenhall (1980), all that is required to define a seizure is the belief by a person that they are not free to go. This defines a broach scope of seizure, and sets a precedent for future cases that can easily be applied. By its very nature, the phrase â€Å"not free to leave† can

What kind of education did Cyrus receive in persia and media, and how Essay

What kind of education did Cyrus receive in persia and media, and how did these two education bring out what Cyrus is like by nature - Essay Example ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Xenophon gives an account of Cyrus’s education in his childhood and boyhood first at the court of his father who is the King of Persians and secondly at the court of his father, the king of the Medes. With respect to the Persian constitution, the state educates the children and they learn the art of justice, moderation, and hunting as a way of preparing them for their future engagement in war. The number of citizens is restricted to 120,000 men who are referred to as â€Å"those equal in honor† and comprise those whose parents could give formal education. Any of the citizens (isotimoi) is allowed to hold office but the stress of the Persian constitution is strict law and regulation. If anyone does not fulfill any of the required steps in preparation to becoming a full citizen, then they are disqualified from the citizens’ body. Similarly, decisions concerning justice and rule of law are rigorously upheld. During one of his school days, Cyrus is whipped by his teachers because in a trial case brought before him, he decides in line with common sense instead of the written law. When he is twelve years of age, Cyrus leaves Persia for Medes where he lives at the court of his grandfather, the Medes’ king. Contrary to Persia, life at the court of Medes is excessive. At one time, Cyrus reproves his grandfather for drunkenness and lack of reasonableness. When Cyrus has to decide between remaining at the Medish court or going back to Persia, his mother compares the Medish and the Persian courts in strong terms. The mother describes the two courts as not being in agreement about what justice entails. She describes the Medish kingdom as tyrannical whereas the Persian kingdom is founded on equality which they believe constitutes justice. She describes the king of Persia as very observant on the law rather than his will. She warns Cyrus to be careful lest he is beaten alive when he returns home (Persia) on the ground of the tyrannical rather than kingship

EMA COURSE WORK Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

EMA COURSE WORK - Essay Example Other factors such as transporting the materials, utilities, etc could also be used however as stated before it is only an example. Variance Analysis is the difference between what is actually paid and the standard cost. The variance is used as a means for management to discuss performance and to review them. One of the major criticisms of standards is that some forms of standards are outdated and not as widely used as others. Another criticism is that the standards are not attainable. This means that the standards are not within reason. Considering that most standards are outdated and incorporate many different components, it is easy to see how mistakes can be made. If the company uses the wrong information on any of the components than it is guaranteed that a variance will be revealed upon further analysis. The standards are also not changed over a period of time and therefore are prone to be incorrect due to changes in technology or even by inflation. Standards are said to give em ployees the motivation to meet goals and to push his/her self to meet or exceed the goals of the company. This motivation is also said to benefit the company as a whole because it increases efficiency and productivity. The best way for standard costing to be effective is to have someone from every level to participate. There has traditionally been a problem trying to get enough people to participate so that the results are reasonable. Participants will look for the easy target and this can pose a problem. The easy target is not necessarily the optimum target or the most cost efficient. Participation in the costing or analysis would require a lot of time and knowledge that the participants do not have. Also the more time they spend on it the more it will cost the company in the form of salaries and benefits. There is also the risk of the participants being out for their own individual gain. They could feel as if their participation could help them further their own agenda instead of that of the company. They could also spend too much time talking and not enough time coming up with solutions. Lack of knowledge can also factor into this because if the participants do not understand the goal they are trying to reach, then time can be spent teaching them instead of getting down to business. Management of Time is also another criticism of standard costing and variance analysis. The process is time consuming to say the least and most managers already feel as if they don’t have enough time to carry out their day to day activities let alone deal with standard costing or variance analysis. Managers in particular might feel as if this is something that someone else should be doing, namely someone in the corporate office if there is one. Absorption costing fuels another criticism of standard costing and variance analysis. Absorption costing assumes that all costs of the production of a product are included in the final price of the product (AccountingCoach, LLC). T his type of costing can create some problems because it could lead to extremely high standard costing which in turn would always lead to variances. If a product includes all of the fixed costs such as utilities of the entire building, rent of all buildings, etc than the standard cost could be extremely high and overstated. The costs are not allocated over all of the products that are produced in the same area but instead the costs are absorbed into the

My Future Essay Example for Free

My Future Essay In the future I see myself studying The Natural Science Program, hopefully with a friend through my years in High School. After school I want to study into becoming a doctor, probably in another country than Sweden, hopefully France, which will be interesting. It will probably take up a lot of my free time but it will be worth it in the end. I will probably study alongside a friend, having him as my roommate which hopefully will make my studies enjoyable. Hopefully I’ll have a beautiful girlfriend while I’m studying to encourage me alongside my mother. I wouldn’t like to get married until I’m like 25 years old, any younger I would consider it kind of weird and I would want to enjoy the bachelor life a while before getting married On my spare time I would go out and meet some French girls and hang out with some friends. I’d like my life to be adventurous and fun, but that would be kind of hard to achieve due to the fact that studying to a doctor would take up a lot of my time. After I have achieved the job as a doctor or if I achieve it I will buy a nice house and a nice car that hopefully will attract girls. ï Å  When or if I become a father I do not want to become the over protective type just because of the fact that I don’t like when my parents behave that way for me, but I will set some boundaries. But of course I also know that it is for my own best, they do it because they love me.

Theories Of Corporate Social Responsibility Management Essay

Theories Of Corporate Social Responsibility Management Essay Introduction The field of corporate social responsibility (CSR) shows to have become more important around the world. The role of business and the way it is perceived by society has gone through several changes throughout the history. Over time, until today, an increased awareness of the impact of business and its interaction with social and environmental issues have emerged. Companies are today obliged to some certain responsibilities in the society where they are active. The most basic responsibilities are laws and rules that they have to supply under. Organizations today are forced to show that their business stands for something more than just profits, and that their activities add some value, or at least do not negatively affect the community around them (Ledwidge, 2007). What is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) CSR is a concept that has many different definitions and a concept that is growing in the corporate world today. Look in most journal articles and you can find the list. But do the people really understand what exactly means by corporate social responsibility? van Marrewijk, (2003) defined CSR is regarded as the panacea which will solve the global poverty gap, social exclusion and environmental degradation. Refer to a work by Abeysuriya et al, (2007), corporate social responsibility of CAR common purpose for facilitating the move towards a socially and ecologically sustainable future through voluntary business activities. Boyd et al, (2007) defined corporate social responsibility as general sense reflects obligations to society and stakeholders within societies impacted by the firm. Beckman et al, (2009) pointed out that CSR known as the organizations status and activities with respect to its perceived community responsibility. CSR is developing in the ethics, marketing, and management fields. The ethics consists of three types of issues i.e., macro-, meso- and micro-level based. The macro- and meso- refer to stakeholder engagement and micro- is center of specific such as code of ethics. van Marrewijk, (2003) defined CSR is regarded as the panacea which will solve the global poverty gap, social exclusion and environmental degradation. Ethical challenges Robinson et al, (2006) noted that one challenge entrepreneurs face is about how to define the ethical dilemma explicitly, so as to address it within the context of the entrepreneurial purpose. The ethical issues in business has to do with making the right choices and there is often no apparent single right way and may meet optimist expectations. Entrepreneurs are therefore frequently faced with choices in business that creates tensions between their need to be ethical and their desire to optimize profits. This tension may sometimes manifest as a fundamental choice between private gain and public good, though this is perhaps to simplistic a way to view the matter Robinson et al, (2006). The author noted that any decision where moral considerations are relevant may give rise to an ethical dilemma. In general, an ethical dilemma may result from a decision that: requires a choice between rules has no rule, precedent or example to follow morally requires two or more courses of action, which are practically incompatible should be taken (in self-interest), but which appears to violate a moral principle The process of Corporate Social Responsibility Figure 1: Phases and steps within the CSR process (Extracted from ORiordan and Fairbrass, 2008) ORiordan and Fairbrass, (2008) demonstrated the potential moves (CSR processes, phases, and steps diagram) in figure 1. According to the authors, there are two distinct stages can be identified i.e. strategy development and strategy implementation of CSR. The strategy development phase includes the following factors: Values which drive the strategy; Alternatives which encompass the various range of options available to decision makers (e.g. using an analogy from chess, the pieces on the board that are available to be moved); The strategy (or action) which is the ensuing results from the decisions taken in the two earlier steps of phase 1. The implementation phase marks stage two of the CSR process. It includes the factors: Implementation and control which involve the technical aspects of implementation at a more tactical level and the crucial step of control of the entire process (i.e. the feedback loop); Finally, the output step is included based on the rationale that a results-orientated approach is beneficial to ensure an effective and efficient use of managerial resources. Theoretical foundation Refer to Clark, (2000) CSR consists of four steps process i.e., awareness or recognition of an issue, analysis and planning, response intern of policy development and implementation. The process of CSR also includes environmental assessment, stakeholder management, and issues management. Becker-Olsen et al, (2006) mentioned that CSR a link between social initiatives and improved financial performance. According Besley and Ghatak, (2007) CSR is dependable with profit-maximization in competitive markets. In equilibrium firms sell ethical brands and neutral brands, and consumers self-select according to their valuation of the public good. According to Margolis et al, (2008) the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate financial performance across eight categories of CSR and found that different initiatives have significantly different impacts on financial performance. Pies et al, (2009) documented that the ordonomic approach can be used in business ethics to foster effective leadership skills and encourage CSR. The ordonomic perspective is a valuable framework for discussing the meaning and role of ethics in effective leadership and CSR in the age of globalization. The authors explained that the ordonomic approach provides a three-tiered conceptual framework for analyzing society and social interaction (refer to figure 2). Figure 2: the three-tiered conceptual framework of the ordonomic perspective (extacted from Pies et al, 2009) This framework distinguishes between the basic games of antagonistic social cooperation, the meta-games of social rule setting, and the meta-meta games of rule-finding discourse. The authors stated that the basic game of social interaction refers as cooperation is only made possible by the existence of institutions, i.e., rules. for mutual advantage. The meta game is rule-setting processes that are geared toward creating a mutually advantageous social structure. Finally, the meta-meta game serves as a rule-finding discourse. Its discursive practices aim at critically discussing semantics and with the goal of developing shared perceptions as to the social interdependence of the players (Pies et al, 2009). Levels of Corporate Social Responsibility Carroll (1991) stated that CSR consists of four level basic responsibilities to society i.e., economic, legal, ethical and discretionary. From these four level responsibilities, Carroll uses to build his CSR model (refer to figure 3). Philantropic Responsibilities Ethical Responsibilities Legal Responsibilities Economic Responsibilities Be a good corporate citizen. Contribute resources to the community; improve quality of life Be ethical. Obligation to do what is right, just and fair. Avoid harm Be profitable. The foundation upon which all others rest Obey the law. Law is societys codification of right and wrong. Play by rules of the game Figure 3: The pyramid of corporate social responsibility (Extracted from Caroll 1991) Refer to the Carrolls model, economic responsibility is the foundation of the pyramid. The next level involves legal responsibilities, which is followed by ethical responsibilities. At the top of the pyramid is philanthropic responsibilities which is to be the highest level of corporate responsibility. Economic and Legal Responsibilities Economic responsibilities mean that the core activity of a business is to provide goods and services. The legal responsibilities refer to companies cannot only focus on the profit motive; simultaneously they are expected to act in accordance with current laws and regulations transmitted by federal, state and local communities as the ground rules under which business should operate (Carroll, 1991). Table 1: Economic and Legal components of Corporate Social Responsibility (extracted from Carroll, 1991) Economic Components (Responsibilities) Legal Components (Responsibilities) 1. Perform in a manner consistent with maximizing earnings per share. 1. Perform in a manner consistent with expectations of government and law. 2. Be committed to being as profitable as possible. 2. Comply with various federal, state and local regulations. 3. Maintain a high level of operating efficiency. 3. Be a law-enduring corporate citizen. 4. Maintain a strong competitive position. 4. It is important that a successful firm is defined as one that fulfils its obligations. 5. It is important that a successful firm is defined as one that is consistently profitable. 5. Provide goods and services that at least meet minimal legal requirements. Ethical Responsibilities Refer to Caroll, (1991) ethical responsibilities represent standards, norms and expectations that consumers, employees, shareholders and the community look upon as fair, even though they are not transferable into laws. The ethical responsibility is the voluntarily responsibility by the company to act in a manner that is fair and justice and to avoid or at least minimize the risk that the shareholders of the company is affected in any negative manner. In the latest years the ethical responsibility has created high expectations on corporate managers and social pressure forces the companies to act in a manner that is far beyond their legal responsibilities. Philanthropic Responsibilities Philanthropic responsibility is always voluntarily and could be implemented through both devote the employees time and the companys money for the best of the society and always try to strive for improving the world around them. The societal approach indicates that companies are responsible to the society as a whole, of which they can be seen as an integral part (Carroll, 1991). Table 2 Ethical and Philanthropic components of Corporate Social Responsibility (extracted from Carroll, 1991) Ethical Components (Responsibilities) Philanthropic Components (Responsibilities) 1. Perform in a manner consistent with expectations of societal mores and ethical norms. 1. Perform in a manner consistent with the philanthropic and charitable expectations of society. 2. Recognize and respect new or evolving ethical moral norms adopted by society. 2. Assist the fine and performing arts. 3. Prevent ethical norms from being compromised in order to achieve corporate goals. 3. That managers and employees participate in voluntary and charitable activities within their local communities. 4. It is important that good corporate citizenship be defined as doing what is expected morally or ethically. 4. Provide assistance to private and public educational institutions. 5. Recognize that corporate integrity and ethical behaviour go beyond mere compliance with laws and regulations. 5. Assist voluntarily those projects that enhance a communitys quality of life. Different approached had been used by van Marrewijk, (2003) i.e, three theories about different levels of CSR (refer to figure 4). Figure 4: General model of CS/CR and its dimensions. (van Extracted from Marrewijk, 2003) According to van Marrewijk, (2003) there the ultimate objective of CSR is to obtain Social Sustainability. This cannot be achieved without the different levels of CSR, in economy, social and environmental issues. In the shareholder approach it is clear that the central aim for a company is the pursuit of profit maximization and that the social responsible activities are not concerned with the corporate body but are a major task for the government and the public sector. In this process CSR is only interesting in the way that it contributes to achieve he objectives of the company, which in the long run is profitability for the owners. Theories of Corporate Social Responsibility The implementation theories correspond to the basis to create a model that describes a CSR implementation process According to Carol, (1991) business and politics communities have been influenced by the globalisation process and the displacement of values from material to immaterial values that has taken place. Refer to a work by Garriga and Melà ©, (2004) CSR theories associated with four groups i.e., (table 3) Instrumental theories The corporation is used strategic tool for wealth creation. There are three main groups of instrumental theories which depend on the economic objectives. The three groups are; Maximizing the shareholder value According to the authors, any investment social demands that contribute to maximizing the shareholder without deception and fraud are include in this group. It has been noted that the shareholder value maximization as the supreme reference for corporate decision-making. Strategies for achieving competitive advantages Garriga and Melà ©, (2004) noted that this group of theories are concentrated on long term social objectives by knowing how to allocate resource and create a competitive advantage. There are three approaches can be included within this strategies i.e., social investments in competitive context, natural resource-based view of the firm and its dynamic capabilities and strategies for the bottom of the economic pyramid. Cause-related marketing Cause-related marketing refers as the process of formulating and implementing marketing activities and the goal is to enhance company revenues, sales or customer relationship by building the brand through the acquisition of, and association with the ethical dimension or social responsibility dimension (Garriga and Melà ©, 2004). Political theories The authors pointed out that political theories focus on interactions and connections between business and society and on the power of business and its inherent responsibility. There are two major theories can be distinguished through Corporate Constitutionalism and Corporate Citizenship Corporate Constitutionalism The authors mentioned that the firm has power to influence the equilibrium of the market. Social powers of the firm are internally and externally without destroy power. They channel organizational power in a supportive way and protect against unreasonable organizational power. Corporate Citizenship Corporate citizenship refers as responsibilities and possible partnerships of business in society. It has been reported that some theories on corporate citizenship are based on a social contract theory. Corporate citizenship theories generally have a strong sense of business responsibility towards the local community, partnerships which are the specific ways of formalizing the willingness to improve the local community and for consideration for the environment. (Garriga and Melà ©, 2004). Integrative theories According to the authors, the integrative theories depend to social demands for its existence continuity and growth. Social demands means society interacts with business and gives it a certain legitimacy and prestige. In addition, the authors noted that the theories of this group are focused on the detection and scanning of, and response to, the social demands that achieve social legitimacy, greater social acceptance and prestige. Issues management The concept of social responsiveness broadens with the concept of issue management which refers as a process for making a corporate response to social issues. Issues management is a process of the corporation can identify, evaluate and respond to those social and political issues which may impact significantly upon it. The principle of public responsibility Public policy consists of law, regulation and broad pattern of social direction reflected to public opinion, emerging issues, formal legal requirements and enforcement or implementation practices. Garriga and Melà ©, (2004) noted that if business adhered to the standards of performance in law and the existing public policy process, then it would be judged acceptably responsive in terms of social expectations. Stakeholder management Stakeholder management focuses on the public responsibility principle and combines groups with a stake in the firm into managerial decision making (Garriga and Melà ©, 2004). Corporate social performance Refer to Garriga and Melà ©, (2004) the corporate social performance theories includes social legitimacy with process for giving appropriate responses. The corporate social performance also include the principles of CSR, expressed on institutional, organizational and individual levels, processes of corporate social responsiveness, such as environmental assessment, stakeholder management and issues management, and outcomes of corporate behavior including social impacts, social programs and social policies. Ethical theories Garriga and Melà ©, (2004) documented that ethical theories focus on the ethical requirements that strengthen the relationship between business and society which is based on principles that express the right thing to do or the necessity to achieve a good society. Normative stakeholder theory The authors noted that the normative stakeholder theory is a way to integrate social demands. Normative stakeholder theory has a normative core based on two major ideas stakeholders are persons or groups with legitimate interests in procedural and/or substantive aspects of corporate activity (stakeholders are identified by their interests in the corporation, whether or not the corporation has any corresponding functional interest in them) and The interests of all stakeholders are of intrinsic value (that is, each group of stakeholders merits consideration for its own sake and not merely because of its ability to further the interests of some other group, such as the shareowners). Universal rights Universal rights (human rights) UN Global Compact includes in the area of human rights, labor rights and the environment protection as a basis for CSR. Sustainable development Sustainable development requires the integration of social, environmental, and economic considerations to make balanced judgments for the long term. In order to maintain the sustainable developmenet there is a need for the organizations aims and intentions be aligned with the organization strategy, as an appropriate response to the circumstances in which the organization operates (Garriga and Melà ©, 2004). Table 3: Corporate Social Responsibility Theories and related approaches (extracted from Garriga and Male, 2004) The common good approach Refer to the authors, this approach maintains that business, as with any other social group or individual in society, has to contribute to the common good, because it is a part of society and it shouldnt be harmful to society. Morimoto and Hope, (2005) are using Grounded Theory approach to undertake the complex issues CSR auditing. According to the authors the grounded theory is grounded in the data; developed from it by the analysis process and tested in the existing data for verification. It is systematic rigor and thoroughness from initial design, through data collection and analysis. Chih et al, (2009) institutional theory on CSR comprising a series of propositions specifying the conditions under which corporations are more (or less) likely to behave in socially responsible ways such as financial performance and economic environment, competition, legal environment, private regulation and the presence of independent organizations, business education environment, and employer-employee relations Another study by Frederiksen, (2009), the author had chosen two kinds of teleological moral theories, i.e. egoism and utilitarianism, and two kinds of deontological moral theories, i.e. libertarianism and common-sense morality and moral theory, i.e. utilitarianism and common-sense morality. From the authors finding, the companies act in CSR is not according to their CSR policies on goal-orientated teleological moral theories, such as ethical egoism or utilitarianism, but they prefer on duty based common-sense morality. In addition, managers mainly perform with goal-oriented teleological moral the ethical guidelines, utilitarianism and this theory is in disagreement with deontologically oriented theories i.e., common-sense morality. Teleological moral theories Egoism According to Frederiksen, (2009), CSR concerned with benefiting the company such as employees, the local community and companys self-interest. Ethical egoist refers to any kind of social arrangement that would be rational for their own best-interest. Therefore, egoism in a company should to do good or refrain from doing harm only if it is good for the company, normally meaning if it helps to maximize profit. Utilitarianism It has been stated that the relationship between CSR and utilitarians is companies have a moral obligation to promote the best possible outcome, i.e. maximise happiness from an impartial perspective. Impartiality refers as the one is impartial in relation to who the benefactor is and who the beneficiary is such as those who closely related to the company, employees (Frederiksen, 2009). Deontological moral theories Libertarianism The author noted that the relation of CSR and libertarianism, it is believe that companies have no moral obligation to positively help anyone; they are only morally obligated not to violate anyones negative rights. Common-sense morality The relationship between CSR and the common-sense orientation believe that companies have a moral obligation not to violate anyones rights and that they also have positive duties towards certain groups, such as employees, the local community and others closely related to the company. The author mentioned that common-sense moral principles seem to be principles concerning special obligations; for example special obligations towards shareholders or other closely related groups. Hsieh, (2009) documented that there are two prominent theories of corporate purpose i.e., stakeholder theory and corporate citizenship theory. Stakeholder theory The corporation ought to be managed for the benefit of all its stakeholders Corporate citizenship theory It emphasize business enterprises in respecting and defending human rights and in contributing to social welfare and human development within society Refer to Padgett RC, Galan JI, (2009), resource-based view (RBV) theory related to CSR in the sense of they can generate competitive advantages; the firm is also affected by external factors. RBV in the study of CSR is explained by the emphasis it places on the importance of specific intangible resources, such as know-how, corporate culture and reputation for firms to obtain competitive advantages. Table 4: In summary of Corporate Social Responsibility Theories Theories Types of theories Authors CSR theories associated with four groups Instrumental theories- strategic tool for wealth creation Political theories- on interactions and connections between business and society and on the power of business and its inherent responsibility Integrative theories- social demands for its existence continuity and growth. Ethical theories- ethical requirements that strengthen the relationship between business and society Garriga and Melà ©, (2004) Undertake complex issues regarding CSR auditing Grounded theory It is systematic rigor and thoroughness from initial design, through data collection and analysis. Morimoto and Hope, (2005) Institutional theory CSR comprising a series of propositions specifying the conditions under which corporations are more (or less) likely to behave in socially responsible ways such as financial performance and economic environment, competition, legal environment, private regulation and the presence of independent organizations, business education environment, and employer-employee relations Chih et al, (2009) CSR associated with two kinds of teleological moral theories and two kinds of deontological moral theories. Teleological moral theories Egoism Any kind of social arrangement that would be rational for their own best-interest to help maximize company profits. Utilitarianism To promote the best possible outcome, i.e. maximise happiness to those who closely related to the company, employees. Deontological moral theories Libertarianism The companies have no moral obligation to positively help anyone; they are only morally obligated not to violate anyones negative rights. Common-sense morality and moral theory Principles concerning special obligations not to violate anyones rights and that they also have positive duties towards certain groups; for example special obligations towards shareholders or other closely related groups. Frederiksen, (2009) There are two prominent theories of corporate purpose Stakeholder theory the corporation ought to be managed for the benefit of all its stakeholders Corporate citizenship theory It emphasize business enterprises in respecting and defending human rights and in contributing to social welfare and human development within society. Hsieh, (2009) Resource-based view (RBV) RBV theory allows to analyse the effect of RD intensity on CSR Resource-based view (RBV) theory Importance of specific intangible resources, such as know-how, corporate culture and reputation for firms to obtain competitive advantages. Padgett and Galan, (2009) Corporate Social Responsibility Implementation Marimoto et al, (2005) there are six key elements to the achievement of successful CSR are perceived as good stakeholder management, good corporate leadership greater priority for CSR at board level, integration of CSR into corporate policy at all levels and in all divisions of business, regulation at the national and international level understood and demonstrated across all areas of business, active involvement of, and good coordination between, government business, NGOs and civil society. Raps (2005) noted that in order to achieve successful implementation of CSR, there is a need to understand a long-term process that requires creativity and careful planning. The author pointed out ten critical points to overcome and improve the difficulties in the CSR implementation context. Commitment of top management Refer to Raps, (2005), the importance of having top-managers working hard to achieve the purpose of the strategy is crucial for the implementation to succeed. Top-managers must influence middle managers in order to get their true message forward; they cannot relay on and believe that the middle-managers perception of the implementation is the same as theirs. Involve middle managers valuable knowledge The author pointed out that to make use of the knowledge that middle managers possess and make sure they are involved increases their motivation and make them feel like they are a part of the process. This motivation boost is important for everyones everyday day work since the middle managers engagement increases the awareness of the implementation throughout the organization. Communication is what implementation is all about Refer to Raps, (2005) illustrates in his communication-model how it is possible to provide appropriate information regarding implementation throughout the organization (Figure 5). Figure 5: Issues to be addresses in the communications plan (Extracted with Raps 2005). Integrate point of view It is essential to see the implementation as a method used integrated within all aspects of the company. Traditionally implementation often overemphasizes the structural aspects e.g. organizational structure and disregards other existing components such as cultural aspects and human resources perspective. All of these aspects need to be taken into consideration to create an integrated measure for implementing activities (Raps, 2005). Clear assignment of responsibilities To avoid power struggles between departments and within hierarchies, there should be a plan with clear assignments of responsibilities regarding detailed implementation activities. This is a preventive way of proceeding. Responsibilities are clear and potential problems are therefore avoided (Raps, 2005) Preventive measures against barriers Change is a common phenomenon for companies today and the companies that are capable of handling change has a great advantage. The ability to manage change has become a core competency. A great challenge within strategy implementation is to deal with potential change barriers. Therefore, it is important to prevent these barriers and by changing the way they view and practice strategy implementation, senior executives can effectively transform change barriers into gateways for a successful execution (Raps, 2005). Emphasize teamwork activities Teamwork is an important part when implementing a strategy. It is however often forgotten when it comes down to implementation process activities (Raps, 2005). Respect the individuals ´ different characteristics Human resources are valuable and intangible assets within a company. Latest studies indicate that HR is the key factor for successful implementation (Raps, 2005) Take advantage of supportive implementation instruments According to the author, there are two implementation instruments can be applied i.e., the balanced scorecard and the supportive software solution. The balanced scorecard provides a functionality to translate a companys strategic objectives into a coherent set of performance measures. In addition, it provides a framework to integrate the strategic planning and meets the requirements that the strategic planning system itself can display. The software solutions can be helpful to improve the quality of strategy implementation and provides clear assignments of responsibilities throughout the organizations implementation process. Calculate buffer time for unexpected incidents The author reported that the most important in strategy implementation is the exceeding of time restrictions. The important key is to find out the time-intense activities and harmonize with the time capac

Government Censorship of Music Misguided :: Argumentative Persuasive Topics

Government Censorship of Music Misguided Granted, there are entertainers in the music business who, as Tipper Gore says in "Curbing the Sexploitation Industry," want to send the message that "sadomasochism is the essence of sex," so that they can make a not-so-honest dollar. As Charlene Choy says in "Romantic Rot," some performers will scream about anything, including "suicide, sadism, incest, [and] bestiality," if it will make them stand out and turn a bigger profit than another musician. Still, Gore and Choy are missing the essence of modern rock. To explain which aspect of modern rock Gore and Choy have overlooked, I will define rock in a broader sense than many people use in their day-to-day conversation: for the purposes of this argument, I will define "rock music" to mean any form of music which has emerged since the 1940's which has had enough popularity to allow people to identify themselves as a member of a group based on the type of music to which they listen. Therefore, types of music as diverse as disco, heavy metal, rap, classic rock (from the 1950's through the 1970's), "grunge," pop, industrial rock, and country-western will be covered under this definition. What Gore and Choy have misunderstood is the way that music can create bonds between people, both between individual fans of a particular group and between the singer and an individual fan. People can learn how others think and can learn more about themselves through the sometimes-brutal reality of modern musical lyrics. Nirvana's song "Dumb" can show popular people how it feels to go through high school as a social outcast. The music of Garbage and L7 can give men a glimpse of the female mind. The music of Nine Inch Nails and the Gin Blossoms can take sane people on a trip through the mind of someone who is losing his (or her) sanity. Music can also help people, particularly those going through painful times (such as adolescence) to understand that they are not alone and that other people have the same feelings that they do. After grunge-rock superstar Kurt Cobain committed suicide in April 1994, one fan wrote to Rolling Stone magazine describing how the music of Cobain's band, Nirvana, made her feel. "I could be feeling like total shit," wrote Carrie Loy, "and hear a Nirvana song and end up feeling renewed afterward.

The Language Of Laughter :: essays research papers

Laughter is part of the universal human vocabulary. All members of the human species understand it. Unlike English, French, or Swahili, one does not have to learn to speak it. We’re born with the capacity to laugh. One of the remarkable things about laughter is that it occurs unconsciously. You don’t decide to do it. While we can consciously inhibit it, we don’t consciously produce laughter. That is why it’s very hard to laugh on command or to fake laughter. It provides powerful, uncensored insights into our unconscious. It simply bubbles up from within us in certain situations. We also know that laughter is a message that we send to other people. We know this because we rarely laugh when we are alone. Laughter is social and contagious. We laugh at the sound of laughter itself. A whole room can erupt in laughter when actually only about a third of the people may know the joke. That is the power of laughter. Most laughter is not about humor; it is about relationships between people. When we laugh, we’re often communicating playful intent. So laughter has a bonding function within individuals in a group. As Victor Borge once said, â€Å"Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.† It’s often positive, but it can be negative too. There’s a difference between â€Å"laughing with† and â€Å"laughing at.† People who laugh at others may be trying to force them to conform or casting them out of the group. Laughter puts things into a new perspective. Everything that makes us laugh is typically something we relate to, but by laughing our brain is opened and sees everything in a different way. Laughter has the remarkable power of making an object come up close, of drawing it into a zone where one can finger it familiarly on all sides, turn it upside down, inside out, and break open its external shell.

Ryanair SWOT analysis

A SWOT analysis is a study which can be undertaken in order to identify an organisation’s, product’s, or service’s internal Strengths and Weaknesses, and also its external Opportunities and Threats. A SWOT analysis focuses on the micro environment of one of the above entities, i.e. â€Å"factors which the organisation has some control over†. – Business Management Course Text, AIT Ireland (2013-20134).SWOT analysis of RyanairStrengthsWeaknessesLowest Cost Base of any European AirlineStrong financial performance despite current economic climate InnovationNegative Public PerceptionOver-reliance on Seasonal trends to increase profit marginsPoor customer serviceOpportunitiesThreatsNew airline routes throughout EuropeOpportunity to increase Market ShareCurrent economic climateIncrease in fuel chargesNatural events and disastersStrengthsAccording to safaribooksonline.com/book/sales-and-marketing, operating as a low-cost enterprise can be a strength for com panies, as it may incentivise an increase in demand for a particular product or service, in relation to its competitors. Low cost providers are a popular choice for financially conscious consumers who do not have any/little loyalty towards the product/service in question, or for consumers who wish to obtain a product/service at the lowest available price. For Ryanair, being a low cost company has been hugely beneficial, as they have almost entirely built their current reputation on being a low-cost airline.At present, Ryanair  is the lowest costing airline in Europe, one third lower than its nearest rival, easyJet. Maintaining a strong financial performance is a major factor to the success of any business. According to http://www.investorwords.com, organisations base their important decisions/strategies the basis of their financial performance. Maintaining a healthy financial performance allows companies to generate revenue. In terms of Ryanair, despite the recession, the company has not only continued to make a profit, but is also Europe’s most profitable airline. In 2013, the company forecasted that they would generate â‚ ¬540 million, a 7% increase over the previous year’s figure.According to http://businesscasestudies.co.uk, Companies must innovate in order to keep ahead of their competitors. This means that companies must focus on incorporating fresh approaches and ideas to their business model in order to remain at the top of their respective field.Ryanair has excelled in being an innovative company, and has changed the outlook on the airline industry through strategies such as pushing the â€Å"low cost† slogan, removing free catering for customers on their flights, and also by moving away from travel agent bookings to internet sales. Through innovation, Ryanair has revolutionised the short-haul industry.WeaknessesNegative public perception/relations can be fatal to any enterprise, as it can lead to a loss in existing customers , whilst also acting as an obstacle in obtaining new ones. Once a company’s name has been tarnished through poor PR, it can be a struggle to regain any popularity lost. Although Ryanair are still the leading airline in Europe, Chief Executive Michael O’Leary has received heavy criticism for numerous PR campaigns, which has given the company a poor reputation amongst many individuals. Many businesses are reliant on specific time of year in order to increase their profit margins.Companies which provide winter wear, such as the Great Outdoors, will thrive during Autumn/Winter, as the demand for jackets, gloves, etc. will be at its highest during these seasons. For Ryanair, the company is heavily reliant on its’ summer performance (particularly July-September) in order to boost profit margins. Since 2008/2009 Ryanair has consistently made losses in at least one of the winter quarters, whereas  the company has made an overall profit in every year for the last 10 ye ars. â€Å"Building positive relationships with your customers isn't just good practice – it will ultimately improve your bottom line.† – James Caan, 2013.Maintaining a positive relation with its customers is a vital component in the majority of successful businesses, as, according to James Caan’s article in The Guardian, â€Å"Customers are the most important asset to your business and looking after them is essential to your success†. Welcoming feedback, (positive and negative) communication between a business and its customers, and handling customers’ complaints are all example of good customer service. However, according to a recent survey conducted by Which? Magazine in the UK, Ryanair was voted as being the â€Å"worst† in terms of the quality of customer service offered by Britain’s 100 biggest firms, with staff Knowledge, attitude, and their ability to handle complaints cited as the main issues.OpportunitiesThe opportuni ty to expand/offer a greater range of service is something which any business interested in growing in stature will be interested in. As a company grows, they have control of the industry which they are competing in, can often dictate prices, and may also benefit from economies of scale (lower unit costs by producing more). –http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/business/aims/sizeandorganisationrev1.shtml For Ryanair, the opportunity to operate new routes throughout Europe is something which the organisation is always improving on. According to http://www.ryanair.com, from April 2014, the airline will expand 85 new routes operating out of Dublin alone, in which the company hopes to generate 1 million new passenger fares from.Inter-linked with the above paragraph, increasing its market share/market growth is another opportunity which looks achievable for Ryanair. According to http://centreforaviation.com, the European aviation sector is still a growing industry, which alre ady suggests that Ryanair may increase its share of the market. However, as Ryanair is already Europe’s leading short haul airline and lowest cost producer, the steps are firmly in place for this opportunity to become a reality. Ryanair targets obtaining 120 million passengers by 2022. The current economic climate has had huge implications  on businesses on a global scale, with many companies, (such as Dell) having to relocate in order to cut costs.Also, as consumers are more aware of the impacts of over-spending during a Recession, many businesses have saw a fall in demand for the product/service which they are offering. However, operating as the lowest costing airline in Europe has had an overwhelmingly positive effect on the company. Although Ryanair offers â€Å"no frills†, many financially conscious people have decided to opt with Ryanair over other alternatives (such as Aer Lingus) during the current economic climate, as they offer a cost effective service. Thi s is evident by the face that Ryanair has become Europe’s most profitable airline.ThreatsAccording to http://www.legalzoom.com, any costs imposed on a business (both internal and external) can have an effect on how a company have choose to allocate its budget, and higher costs may also lead to a business cutting back on certain expenses in order to remain in a healthy financial position. According to Ryanair’s Chief Financial Officer Howard Millar, Ryanair’s single largest cost is fuel costs. To combat against these rising costs, Ryanair has chosen to slow down the speed of their air-crafts, which has added an estimated two minutes onto every hourly flight.This figure may seem small, but for customers who travel with Ryanair on a frequent basis, this could lead to a fairly substantial amount of extra time consumed, with may lead to some disgruntled customers. – Siraj Datoo, 2013. According to http://www.exponent.com, Natural disasters, whether they are hu rricanes, typhoons, tsunamis, or monsoon-related flooding, are all factors that can affect the operations of businesses worldwide. The above factors can have major implications in business operations, as they can restrict trade between business, and they also may lead to products/premises being damaged.For Ryanair, natural disasters such as a volcano eruption, could lead to a huge loss in profits, as this event could lead to flights being cancelled (e.g. the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud in 2011 caused severe losses to many airlines). Also, a fatal accident, such as a plane crash, would also have a major negative on Ryanair, as consumers may feel unsafe in regards to barding a Ryanair air craft.

Focus Group

INTRODUCTION Focus group is a qualitative technique used mostly in marketing research and also other areas of research. This technique is used to collect primary data. This document consists of information about focus group. The main objective of this assignment was to investigate how focus groups techniques are used to collect primary data about the phenomenon at hand in the real world. The research method used was Google scholar for academic journals.The campus library database was also used for more academic journals and textbooks from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) different libraries. The main problem experienced in the completion of this document was that most textbooks about this studied topic were outdated in the author’s campus. Hence, different campuses of NMMU were visited and the right textbooks were found. This document presents a review of the literature on focus groups. It continues with an empirical study on organisational corruption in secon dary schools.Also included, is the reference list of all cited sources as well as an annexure. 2 FOCUS GROUPS In the collection of primary data there are two research methods that can be of use, quantitative and qualitative methods, which can both be subdivided into idiosyncratic primary data collection methods. Because the main focus of this document is on focus groups, therefore only qualitative techniques will be mentioned which are in-depth interviews, projective techniques and focus groups. Seymour (2004:04) defines focus groups (F.G) as â€Å"group of interacting individuals having some common interest or characteristics, brought together by a moderator, who uses the group and its interactions as a way to gain information about a specific or focused issue†. This technique has been utilised in many fields to collect primary data as mentioned above and its characteristics are discussed in the following section. 2. 1 CHARACTERISTICS OF FOCUS GROUPS When F. G are considered to be used in a certain research study then there are characteristics which have to be taken into account, which are: group size, group composition, physical setting, moderator, recording tools and length f group discussion. Below it is a detailed review on each of the above mentioned characteristics of F. G. 2. 1. 1 Group size When determining to embark on F. G one has to think about the size (number) of that certain F. G. Despite the confusion that can be created by different sources stating a different number of possible group sizes. The research of F. G can be undertaken with a group of 4- 12 people (Tong, Sainsbury & Craig 2007:351). Large F. G group size can jeopardise the discussion as it may be difficult to handle the discussion, even so the group size depends on the complexity of the research study. . 1. 2 Group composition After the group size had been decided then the group composition must be considered as well. All participants taking part in a F. G must be homogen eous in the interest of the studied phenomenon (Malhotra & Birks 2006:160). Participants with similar characteristics, which the study is about, make the discussion easier and nicely flowing. 2. 1. 3 Physical setting When choosing the venue to carry out a F. G it is imperative that the chosen venue must also meet the aspects of the phenomenon at hand and of the participants.Daymon and Holloway (2002:194) state that â€Å"choosing the right environment for traditional focus groups plays a vital role as it can attract freely expressed opinions from the participants†. 2. 1. 4 Moderator In the success of F. G moderators play a vital role. It is of crucial role that moderators in F. G keep the environment safe so participants can freely express their opinions and most importantly must use probe questions; such requires a great experience from the moderator (Hague, P. , Hague, N. & Morgan 2004:53).Therefore, the moderator ought to possess skills such as creating chemistry w ith the participants, keep the flow of the discussion and analysing the data collected. 2. 1. 5 Recording tools No person can be able to cram exactly a discussion of over 20 minutes by his head; some points will certainly be missed. Wiid & Diggines (2009:90) express that â€Å"sessions should preferably be recorded (both visual and audio) so that the researcher can review the sessions later in order to gain further insights†.These tools therefore, assist to keep the already realised needed data and the data that the moderator was unaware of during the discussion. 2. 1. 6 Length of group discussion When planning F. G it is essential to plan the duration precisely as it may play an impact on the data collected. However, just like group sizes, length of F. G depends on the complexity of the issue at hand. The more complex of the issue is the more the duration of the discussion is required, but if so then breaks must be taken in between to let the participants to enliven and produce successful F. G (Malhotra & Birks 2006:161).While on the hand, Seymour (2004:05) being unambiguous reveals that â€Å"most focus groups encompass 90 minutes to three hours of discussion†. With the above discussed characteristics of F. G considered, then one has to scrutinise the advantages and disadvantages of F. G. The following section discusses the advantages and disadvantages of F. G. 2. 2 ADVANTAGES F. G has its own advantages which can attract this technique to be used. These advantages are discussed individually beneath. Cost- because discussions are done simultaneously then it reduces the cost (Wiid & Diggines 2009:91).Speed- because a number of individuals are being interviewed at the same time, data collection and analysis proceeds speedily (Gerber-Nel, Nel & Kotze 2003:104). Synergy- a discussion with a number of participants can also be of help by generating more information than one-on-one interviews (University of Toronto [UT] 2002:02). Snowb all- Malhotra & Birks (2006:162) state that â€Å"a bandwagon effect often operates in a group discussion in that one person’s comment triggers a chain reaction from the other respondents†.In elaboration, a comment from one of the participants may reveal an idea to some other participant(s). Scientific scrutiny- because the moderator is also in the venue of discussion with participants, it also gives the moderator the opportunity to also observe (Malhotra & Birks 2006:162). However, disadvantages investigated by the author are more than the mentioned above but the above mentioned are those anticipated as most important. 2. 3 DISADVANTAGES Focus groups have advantages which can jeopardise the collected data or the data collection process itself.These advantages are explained below. Misjudgement- Gerber-Nel et al (2003:104) utter that â€Å"results are misinterpreted due to bias†. Non representative sample- because of the small number of participants in to tal as compared to quantitative, therefore participants in F. G cannot represent any population (Wiid & Diggines 2009:91). Inconclusive results- the results of F. G only retort to ‘what’ but not ‘why’ which can sometimes make the narrow and create a need for a quantitative research study (Gerber-Nel et al 2003:104).Difficulty in analysing- this method mostly consists of words which make it more difficult to analyse (Grudens-Schuck, Allen & Larson 2004: ¶9). 2. 4 WHEN TO USE FOCUS GROUPS With the above discussed sections it is also vital for one to know when to utilise F. G. Focus groups are mostly used to discover behaviour, perceptions, attitudes and processes (Hague et al 2004:50). These traits that F. G are used to discover which responds to the question of ‘when to use focus groups? ’, which in respond will be, F.G can be used in; stand alone method, supplementary to a survey and as a part of multi method design (Daymon & Holl ower 2002:188). The following section will discuss the use of F. G in the study of organisational corruption in secondary schools in Turkey and the information provided is based on annexure A. 3 FOCUS GROUP STUDY ON ORGANISATIONAL CORRUPTION IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ANKARA In Turkey after it was seen that the level of corruption in secondary schools is high, it was then seen important that a study on this problem should be undertaken.The moderator and his assistant decided to use F. G study to identify the perceptions of teachers in Ankara (a city in Turkey). The group sizes of the study were eight and nine respectively, which in total consisted of 17 participants (12 males and 5 females). These participants were chosen due to homogeneous attributes meeting the studied problem, because this study is about secondary schools therefore the participants were critically recruited due to their profession of teaching. Thereafter, the moderator and his assistant held the F. G in a cosmopolit an city of Turkey known by the name Ankara.Apaydin & Balci (2011:821) state that in the study â€Å"audio and video recordings were taken informed consent†. Which helped to later on even realise information shared which the researchers were not aware of. The duration of each focus group was 90 minutes, which the researchers felt the time it was the right time, for each group discussion. The fact that F. G were held made it less costly for this study than any other possible study because a large number of people participated in this study at a time which also made it quite quicker.Some points in this study were raised up by addition or revealing of another idea by some other participant’s comment. On the other hand, the researchers also saw that because at first the participants were suppose to represent secondary schools of Turkey as a nation then later converted to the cosmopolitan city Ankara but still the researchers saw that the number of total participants is quite diminutive to represent such large population. On the findings of this study it was seen of importance that further study should be carried out on different groups so the findings can be generalised. CONCLUSION This study has been a great study which can be improvised in a way. Such way is that the researchers must carry on with the focus groups and compare findings, if even after several discussions same findings are gathered then it would be a point where the findings can be generalised for the secondary schools in Ankara. REFERENCE LIST Apaydin, C. & Balci, A. 2011. Education. Organizational Corruption in Secondary Schools: A Focus Group Study, 131(4):818-829. Daymon, C. & Holloway, I. 2002.Qualitative research methods in public relations andmarketing communications. London: Routledge. Gerber-Nel, C. , Nel, D. & Kotze, T. 2003. Marketing research. Claremont: New African Books. Grudens-Schuck, N. , Allen, B. L. & Larson, K. 2004. Focus group fundamentals. Met hodology Brief: 9. Hague, P. , Hague, N. & Morgan, C. 2004. Marketing research in practice: A guide to the basics. London: Kogan Page. Malhotra, N. K. & Birks, D. F. 2006. Marketing research: An applied approach. 2nd rev ed. Harlow: Prentice Hall.Seymour, A. 2004. Focus groups. An Important Tool for Strategic Planning:1-32. Tong, A. , Sainsbury, P. & Craig, J. 2007. International journal for quality in health care. Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ): a 32-item Checklist for Interviews and Focus Groups, 19(6):349-357. University of Toronto. 2002. The health communication unit. Using Focus Groups, 02:1-59. Wiid, J. & Diggines, C. 2009. Marketing research. Cape Town: Juta. ANNEXURE A: ORGANIZATIONAL CORRUPTION IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS: A FOCUS GROUP STUDY