Medical Assistant

The main person that has shaped my personality has been my mother. She has show n me how to conduct myself as a woman, a professional, and as a mother. She has always worker d and shown me and my sister the value of work. Her hard work Instilled In me the desire to succeed. My mother has always been my Inspiration. At a young age my mother came to the US, she had no knowledge of the language mum chi less of the way of life out here. Although the language barrier she managed to meet and ma r rye my dad.My mother quickly found out that America wasn't all It seemed. She married and the n struggled to provide for me and my father. He was a spoiled American kid, In my mothers word s, with opportunities only dreamed of by my mother. She stuck it out and had me and my sis term. Later she divorced from my dad and provided for us all by herself. She started working at South Chicago hospital as a housekeeper when I was only 6 wok s old. Since then she has held her Job and worked two, even thre e Jobs to provide for me an d my sister. The road has been long but she tells me she never regrets it.She has been sat bled and living proof that it can be done. My mother did it without any education and it was a f reign land to her. She now has bought and paid for her home and a condo in Florida, and has law yes helped and provided for me, my sister, and her grandchildren. My mother is my idol. I wish she could see the impact and structure she has instilled on my life. I am so proud to have such a dedicated and hard working mother. She inspires me to do the Impossible. If she can overcome all the odds then I can at least try to.

M3 Interpret the contents of a trading and profit and loss account performance of the organisation Essay

Interpret the contents of a trading and profit and loss account and balance sheet for a selected company explaining how accounting ratios can be used to monitor the financial performance of the organisation . Profit and Loss account. The P&L will not tell you about the underlying health of the business, such as how much money it owes or is owed and what the value of its assets are. It shows how much money did business made in a year. It records two things sales and cost/turnover. The trading account shows the income from sales and the direct costs of making those sales. It includes the balance of stocks at the start and end of the year. There are different sections of P&L which include: 1. Sales- it is the total value of what you’ve sold during the period of time. The formula for it is price time’s quantity. 2. Cost of sales- these are the costs that are directly related to the sales you have made. It includes raw materials or stock you have purchased to resell. It may also include the cost of creating the items that you sold, including the cost of staff time if you are selling service. 3. Gross Profit – This is the sum of sales revenue minus cost of sales. It tells you how much profit you are making directly from your sales. 4. Operating Costs – These are all the other costs associated with running a business, such as the rent and rates on your premises, accountancy and legal fees, and depreciation. These costs cannot be directly linked to your sales and may not change very much even if your sales figures were to change significantly. 5. Net Profit – This is the gross profit minus the operating costs. This is almost the true profit of your business because it’s made up of all the income and all the costs. The net profit is transferred over to balance sheet. Balance sheet A balance sheet shows the value of a business on a particular date. A balance sheet shows what the business owns and owes. It is also used as a guide for solvency of the company. Anything in your business that has financial value is included in the balance sheet. Everything is split into four groups. 1. In first group is included everything that can be liquidated (sold for cash) including stock, cash, and money owed by customers, are current assets. These are usually short term. 2. Second group is more long-term; including property, machinery, patents and long-term investments these are called fixed assets, which are long term liquidation. 3. Third part of balance sheet is current liabilities and they are what the business owes in the short-term: money owed to suppliers, taxes due, short-term loans and overdrafts. 4. The last group is long-term liabilities they are what the business owes in the long-term – to be paid after one year, as well as capital and reserves. Gross Profit Margin This ratio examines the relation between the gross profit and sales revenue. It also measures the % of gross profit that is made from a given amount of sales. It shows how efficiently a business is using its materials and labours in the production process and gives an indication of the pricing, cost structure, and production efficiency of your business. The higher the gross profit margin ratio the better it is for business. The higher the percentage, the more the business retains of each pound of sales, which means more money is left over for other operating expenses and net profit. A low gross profit margin ratio means that the business generates a low level of revenue to pay for operating expenses and net profit. It indicates that either the business is unable to control production or inventory costs or  those prices are set too low. Acid Test Ratio This method excludes stock as stock is not a very liquid asset. Acid-Test ratio provides a more rigorous assessment of a company’s ability to pay its current liabilities. A higher acid-test ratio indicates greater short-term financial health. The acid-test ratio is more conservative than the current ratio, which measures much the same thing, because the current ratio excludes the value of inventory. Net Profit Margin Net profit margin measures how much of each pound earned from sales of good and service the company is translated into profits. It also provides clues to the company’s pricing, cost structure and production efficiency. Net profit is used to pay for interest, tax and distribution to the owners. The higher the net profit margin ratio the better it is for the business. It indicates whether a firm has enough short-term assets to cover its immediate liabilities without selling inventory. A low net profit margin ratio may mean that you are not generating enough sales, the gross profit margin is too low, or that you are not keeping your operating expenses under control to leave an acceptable profit. A business with a low ratio might need to take on debt to pay its expenses. Return On Capital Employed It shows the return for money that is spent and it also says how well you do with the money. ROCE should always be higher than the rate at which the company borrows otherwise any increase in borrowing will reduce shareholders’ earnings and it indicates that the company is not employing its capital effectively and is not generating shareholder value. For a company, the ROCE trend over the years is also an important indicator of performance. In general, investors tend to favour companies with stable and rising ROCE numbers over companies where ROCE is volatile and bounces around from one year to the next. Debtors Days It shows how long it takes debtors to pay you money back. Increases in debtor days may be a sign that the quality of a company’s debtors is decreasing. This could also mean a greater risk of defaults. It could similarly be an indicator that cash flow is likely to weaken or that more working capital will be required. Investors should be aware of why changes in debtor days are happening, especially if there is a very large increase or a clear long term increasing trend. It may reflect a change in how the business operates, or its environment. This is not necessarily bad, but it can be an indication of a potentially serious problem.

Capital Budgeting Problems Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Capital Budgeting Problems - Article Example Rather than that it is easier to the investment. This is due to the difficulty the future organization face in calculating the future benefits; most organizations normally do not undertake new investments. These judgements can be undertaken if the assets are quantifiable. The benefits attached to the intangibles can only be judged by the educated senior executive of the organizations and investments in such projects can be made on the basis of the beliefs of the organizations heads. The investments in these projects should be formally budgeted on the other hand it is strongly recommended to undertake periodic reviews of the outcomes and benefits attached to these projects. With investment in value delivering projects it is also important to invest in organizational skills and system since they affect the value. Activity Based costing system is used to achieve the organisation's objectives by supporting decision-makers inside the enterprise. Internal decision-makers are employed by the enterprise. These internal decision-makers create and use internal accounting information in order to undertake cost cutting and enhance the business profits (Meigs, Williams, Haka & Bettner, 1999). The development of effective management accounting systems although has played an important part in dealing with the problems discussed above but also it has given rise to the problems of downsizing and cost cutting. There are several factors, which were identified to have influence on the structure of these systems. These include differentiation degree of integration (internal & external) and the configuration of the organisations. Some researchers reveal contextual relationship between the above mentioned factors the management accounting system and information systems. (Daft and Mac intosh 1978; Khandwaila, 1972) Although many theories have been put forward in order to find out the efficient allocation of resources of the organizations but each of them has different drawbacks attached to them. Open theories: Open theories address all the social, psychological and structural factors. According to the open theories organisations are the organisms which take inputs from the environment and give outputs. Open systems undertake the analysis of all the different disciplines and levels. The open theories address all the aspects such as political social and technological extending its scope from other theories, which are confined only at studying the economic consequences. Cybernetics: covers the techniques applications. The cybernetics theories contend goal oriented behaviour and emphasise the change of role of individuals according to the situation. The main drawback of the theory is that it doesn't provide a universal solution and fails to provide specified guidelines for the individuals about their behaviour in different scenarios. (Aney, 1980) Social

Performance Review Takes a Page from Facebook Research Paper

Performance Review Takes a Page from Facebook - Research Paper Example It is because of this that this essay seeks to establish the reality on these matters. It is very untenable to posit that regular conversations with employees and familiarity with their stand can overwrite the need for performance evaluation. First, it is likely that these regular conversations also include both formal and informal discourse. Informal discourse does no constitute the frameworks of performance evaluation. Conversely, taking regular conversations and an employees’ acquaintance with their stand is akin to taking an individual’s words for a fact. What an employee says he has done is not what may be the reality. Many are the cases when employees have assured their bosses that they have finished a project, to save face, and with the hope of finishing the project before the boss asks for it. Performance evaluation also factors several measures and frameworks that conversations and familiarity may not capture, the degree of regularity and familiarity notwithsta nding. First, performance evaluation should be carried out on regular basis (for instance, at the end of a fiscal year) and should be facilitated by the human resources (HR) management or a supervisor. It is debatable if the boss will follow through the frameworks that entail performance evaluation, due to the impromptu nature of a conversation. In a closely related wavelength, performance evaluation becomes only meaningful with a performance target in mind or at hand. Even if the boss may have this in mind, it is a fact that his mind will not contain all the specific frameworks of performance evaluation. It is very unlikely that the employer or the boss will keep every employee’s performance target, in order to make sensible performance appraisal. Performance evaluation also meaningful if it factors it is followed up with proper correctional action. Because there would be no proper performance appraisal, it follows that such conversations will not capture proper correctional measures such as workshop drives and training programs, or the degree to which they should be carried out. Question 2 When one looks at the possible effectiveness of the social network performance review to veterans, baby boomers, Gen X, and Gen Y, one realizes that there are changes that have taken place. For the veterans and the baby boomers, it is clear that conventional type of social network performance was used, in lieu of the online social networks. This is because the world had not yet become acquainted to the Worldwide Web. Generation Y and X began using social networks to perpetuate organizational goals, earlier and more frequently than the baby boomers and the veterans due to age. For instance, the veterans (1922-1943) always value clarity and consistency in respect to rules, performance standards and decision making processes. This generation may therefore need clarification on what it is actually expect of it, when introducing social network performance. Baby boomers ( 1944-60) in turn will also realize positive social network performance reviews since this group likes being in control. Generation X (1961-1980) may also register positive social network performance review since it has the ability to flexibly balance work arrangements and work balance. This group also has ready access to exciting and meaningful work choices. Generation Y (1981-2000) may also register pleasing social network performance review since it has a knack for teamwork, fast decision making and self-motivation. Question 3: Justification

Group Effectiveness Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Group Effectiveness - Essay Example Having said this, this part of the paper is aim at finding and assessing group effectiveness in the work place. standards of those using the output; Capability to work interdependently: the degree to which the group's members are able to work together in the future; and growth and well-being of members: the degree to which the experience of being in the group enhanced the individual members through the common goal (Hackman, 1990). Thus group effectiveness refers to the work quality of a work group. This will be illustrated using ASDA an international retail company with headquarters in the States. According to the work group model developed by Hackman (1990), the group that performs its assigned task well but is not able to work together in the future is not a truly effective group. ASDA is WALMART in the United Kingdom. At the stores, employees are defined within the roles they occupy and by departmental functions all working for a common goal. These group members, though working as a group are able to work independently in the absence of a group member. While, groups in ASDA are defined within various functions (e.g., Stocking group, cash department group, teller functions, security group etc) these are all indicative of the effectiveness of the various groups. Group effectiveness at ASDA supermarket, is further identified through a collective sense of "We" feelings amongst the group members. Thus at ASDA the life of a group and it members must be accounted for in determining the effectiveness of the group. This again can be seen from the common a shared common goal. For ex ample, ASDA UK sales have increased in the past two years. Again, return on assets and return on capital employed has also increased. Thus, based on Hackman (1990) argument that a group is effective once the output of the group is acceptable and satisfied those who consume it. 1.1.3 Assessing Group effectiveness at work Place According to Hackman (1998) review, group effectiveness can be assessed from different dimension. The researcher cited Hackett (1995) who illustrated the role of self-efficacy in career choice and development, she illustrates that self-efficacy plays a strong role in individual career choices. To assess the effectiveness of the group, attention should be paid at group commitment and output. At ASDA, employee's group effectivene

Building construction for the fire service Research Paper

Building construction for the fire service - Research Paper Example Some of the concerns raised by the people directly charged with the management of the fires included the charge that priorities of costs over safety and suitability increased the level of vulnerability of risk. Such approaches also lowered the level of efficiencies in interventions in cases of fire accidents. Building code language remains a key challenge that affects the development of the most appropriate strategies of combating fires and other kinds of strategies designed to counter the challenges of safety (Karter, 2001). This problem arises out of the challenge that many of the professionals involved in the strategies lack a common platform on which they can articulate their levels of expertise in reference to particular technical aspects of building code language. Recent developments in the industry have seen bold attempts across the various relevant departments to build the most appropriate strategies for harmonizing the operations within the system. The design and structure of buildings remains a significant contributing factor to the level of challenges encountered by fire fighters. For instance, construction analysts blame the weaknesses in the support beams in the Twin Towers as one of the factors that contributed to the extensive scale of damage that was witnessed after the terrorist attack. Besides the inclusion of special features for limiting the spread of fires, there have been suggestions to include special bridges between skyscrapers in order to provide increased room for evacuation in the event of the outbreak of fires. Suggestions continue to emerge including the suitable size of buildings with some analysts arguing the case for the reduction and the strengthening of beams in order to absorb the shock of accidents, impacts, or explosions. The course of development of the building code and standards has featured

Theories And Models Of Learning Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Theories And Models Of Learning - Essay Example This is the theory of learning that focuses on things that can be seen and does not put into account any mental activities. It is only concerned with learned behavior whether it is through experience or through watching. Proponents of this theory believe that people can learn more from external stimuli than if they are actively involved in the process. Learning is acquiring new behavior and behaviorists describe this as conditioning. There are two types of conditioning that explain the reason as to why both human beings and animals are taught or learn to do certain things. The first type is classical conditioning where there is a reinforcement of a natural reflex or another type of behavior that happens as a result of exposure to a stimulus. Operant conditioning, on the other hand, is the reinforcement of behavior by rewarding it. Every time a particular behavior is practiced, the participant is given a reward. Operant conditioning is the most important type of behaviorist learning a nd is seen as more powerful than classical conditioning. Just as the way positive behavior is reinforced, so is negative behavior. Negative behavior is discouraged by immediate punishment. For instance, the monkeys that were kept in a cage and every time they tried to reach out for the banana, they were electrocuted. With time, they all restrained from reaching out for the banana no matter how enticing it was. Humanists focus mostly on human beings and emphasize on issues of personal choice, creativity, and spontaneity of an individual.

Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 20

Analysis - Essay Example The theory of the New Deal is presented in this section to denote the various changes that were made in the labour industry at the time. There was widespread unemployment, poor working conditions and human suffering in society at the time. Her approach to such issues are presented in these letters where she is famed for having devised a solution to most of the issues presented (Johnson 24-2). She spearheaded the enactment of the government social security system that ensured equal rights for the unemployed, the aged and the dependent in society. This led to a reduction in human suffering among members of society who were unable to take care of themselves. Most of the New Deal accomplishments that were related to labor were attributed to her unending effort (Johnson 24-2). Her approach to human suffering is notable in these readings through her intervention in the issue of Jewish refugees from Nazi Germany. She placed humanitarian needs at the forefront because she believed human lives were to be preserved. At the height of the Nazi killings in Germany, she developed New Deals for Jewish refugees that involved quick assimilation into the United States through the Department of Immigration (Johnson 24-2). She worked hand in hand with the Roosevelt administration to start an era of New Deals in American Society. This document handles the issues of wealth distribution that was presented by Huey Long, a former Louisiana governor and United States Senator in the 1930s. Long is known to have presented elaborate speeches over the radio and some of these are presented in this document as he speaks to the members of the Share our Wealth Society. In this speech, Long advocates for the redistribution of wealth in society through the use of sharply graduated incomes and inheritance taxes ((Johnson 24-3). His radical ideas led to an improvement in public health and public education programs in the

Impacts Of Poverty On Student’s Achievement Essay Example for Free

Impacts Of Poverty On Student’s Achievement Essay Poverty is an issue faced by more children in our nation. Children face problems related to poverty during their schooling. The price that children pay out of poverty is incredibly high than anyone can imagine. Each year, schools admit large numbers of children with needs brought about by poverty which is an issue that the school is usually not prepared to deal with. Poverty is a risk factor in the process of student’s education. This paper examines the impacts of poverty on teaching and learning which determines the student’s academic achievement. The concept of being at risk This term refers to students who are faced by life’s social circumstances such as poverty that puts them at risk of underachieving in school. There are many risk factors which increases the chances of a student to failure. However poverty is regarded a major risk factor due to its compound effect. Some of the factors that are related to poverty and put a student at greater risk of failing include, very young parents, unemployment, low educational level parents, substance abuse, exposure to inadequate or improper educational experiences, dangerous neighborhood, mobility, abuse and neglect as well as homelessness. (Gromard, 2003) These factors affect the physical status of the children as in dressing, the type of food they eat, their personal effects are usually of low quality or cheap. The physical disparities in among the students cause a wide gap between the poor students and their peers from middle or upper class families. Sometimes the isolation of this group of students is automatic in that they themselves assume that others do not want to associate with them. Teachers may also contribute in perceiving students in accordance to their social classes. This is however a rare case because teachers are professionals. Nevertheless, there are some instances that the teacher may talk about an issue in the process of teaching and unintentionally touch the students from poverty stricken families. For example in studying population, the teacher may teach about demographics of poverty which is inevitable. This students may change their attitude towards the teacher and hence the subject. (Knapps, Shields, Clementina, 2001) High mobility is a symptom associated with poverty in connection to other surrounding factors. Students who come from poor families may live in daily or monthly rent houses. This is makes them to move day in day out as their parents look for jobs or runs away from problems like abusive spouses, financial responsibilities or criminal records. This kind of situation may also put the poor family homeless. The conditions they live in affect their education achievement. This result from the emotional impact that moving impacts on children. The children also are forced to join new schools occasionally where they may find it very difficult to adapt. When this factor combines with other issues related to poverty, overwhelming effects on the students’ social, emotional and cognitive development are experienced. Students from poor families attend school irregularly. Transfers to new schools are a routine which brings about difficulty in socialization with new friends in the new school. This may make the student to become either withdrawn or hostile due to their experiences in their past attempts to make friends. The student may therefore develop an attitude of ‘why bother’ with regard to both social and academic aspect schooling as they will after all be moving soon. Due to the various reasons of moving, which are often abrupt, the student come to the new school without records from their previous school which makes it difficult for the school to track the records. As a result, teachers lack the slightest idea of what the student have or haven’t leant. It is a big challenge for the school to place the new students in a class and provide them with the additional services they may require. Even when the school succeeds in placing the new students in class and providing these services, these students will likely move within the school year. It is also difficult for teachers to teach these kinds of students something valuable as they rarely concentrate. Children from poor families become aware of the social economic classes that exist in the society at a very tender age. They grow being aware of their own class and that of their peers which make them to develop a class related attitude as early as in their elementary schooling years. This attitude id carried on throughout their lives in school. Inferiority complex or aggressiveness may be the end result of this effect of poverty in the student’s life. However teachers can help children build up caring and sensitivity towards various cultures including social classes. Lessons and activities in the school should be designed on how children perceive the world and themselves during the different stages of development. For example at the age of eleven, children can comfortably reflect on the causes and solutions to poverty. Achievement gap Achievement gap is the difference in academic achievement between children from various groups or classes in relation to ethnic, income or race. The achievement of students is generally lower than that of middle and upper classes. However at lower levels, children of poverty achieve more than their peers from well to do families. Children from low income families have more in their minds than quizzes, homework or extracurricular activities. As pointed out earlier in this work some may have spent their nights in the streets due to homelessness, at camps or compounds of their friends or relatives. Therefore they are often engaged in thinking about where they will spend that night as well as caring about their parents who go through hardships trying to look for a living for the family. This affects their concentration in class and other school activities hence affect their performance academically as well as socially. (Brown, 2000) The reason for variation in achievement of students is determined by the social environment the students come from and the education that they receive in school. Poverty influences the quality of student’s learning behaviors, their past experiences with education, home environment and sometimes the teacher’s attitude which greatly affect the individual student performance. Students from poor or low income families are generally worried too much about themselves. They usually feel out of place when interacting with children in other social classes. They may feel that the society is unfair by placing them in poverty. The students may decline from participating in class activities and this affects their learning in school. As proposed by Salvin 2001, schools impact on students’ academic achievements are powerful and the success of all the students regardless of their social economic class depend on the teachers’ perception of these students as at promise rather than at risk and at the same time preparing them to get to their full potentials in life. A good education that is focused is usually the only means of breaking the vicious cycle of poverty for the poor children. These children require an education founded in high standards with high expectation for all. The curriculum should be aligned to ensure that a meticulous and assessment go hand in hand with the standards. The curriculum should avoid a decrease in opportunities for the students from the poor background. What usually takes place in the classroom has influence on the achievement of the students and hence teachers should be careful when passing information to students. (Plumber, 2004) The teacher should avoid at all costs any activity that may discriminate students from poor backgrounds. The content of education should be of value and cultural relevant. Teachers should be aware that the instructional and classroom management methods do not necessarily work well for poor students. The teachers can help in closing the achievement gap.

Death in the stranger and night Essay Example for Free

Death in the stranger and night Essay Before Meursault dies, he talks about his philosophy, and how he thinks the universe works. In this philosophical rant that he trails on, he says that nothing really matters in his life, or in anyones life. He begins to understand the actions of his mother towards the end of her life, and says that he understands the actions of the universe, and actually says the universe is like a brother. As if that blind rage had washed me clean, rid me of hope; for the first time, in that night alive with signs and stars, I opened myself to the gentle indifference of the world. Finding it so much like myself-so like a brother, really-I felt that I had been happy and that I was happy again. (122-123). Meursaults indifference to his own death once again represents Camus philosophy that death is simply an action that needs to be carried out at the end of life. This especially represents Camus philosophy since Meursault had been representing the philosophy of Camus in the pages beforehand, which means that Camus most likely holds this attitude towards death, which is what is being broadcast through this book. In Night, the most important death that occurs in the book, among the many that are referenced, is the death of Elies father. Both before and after his fathers death, Elie is extremely attached to his father, emotionally. He takes his relationship with his father so seriously that he says I had to stay at Buchenwald until April eleventh. I have nothing to say of my life during this period. It no longer mattered. After my fathers death, nothing could touch me any more. (107) This shows that Elie is extremely attached to his father, since his fathers death drives him to apathy towards his life. He takes the death of his father extremely seriously. The importance of his fathers life to him is shown through his continued attempts to keep him alive. In example, the head of Elies block tells him Here, there are no fathers, no brothers, no friends. Everyone lives and dies for himself alone. Instead of heeding the mans advice, Elie decides he will keep on trying to save his father by feeding him his rations of soup and bread. This shows that Elies view on death is a personal one. He views death as a loss to the living. He very much cares about the fate of the dead, and would very much have them stay alive than die. The representation of death in the two novels represents the attitude towards death held by the two cultures that the books represent. The Stranger, or Letranger, in the original French, represents French culture, since Albert Camus, who is really an Algerian, was greatly influenced by the French. Since Algeria was a French colony at the time that The Stranger written, French and Algerian culture in the sense of their philosophy on death is really the same. Night represents Eastern-European Jewish culture, seeing as Elie Wiesel, a Jew born and raised in Eastern Europe, wrote the novel and portrayed other Eastern-European Jews in it. Albert Camus novel The Stranger, and Elie Wiesels memoir Night both represented death in two very different ways. Albert Camus, through The Stranger portrayed death as a natural action that had to happen to every person at some time in his or her life, and should not be taken as seriously as it is. Elie Wiesel, through Night, argued that death should be taken seriously, as should the dying.

Positive Representation Of Coach Carter

Positive Representation Of Coach Carter The main character in the film that has been used in the film under a positive light is Coach Ken Carter who is the main character of the plotline. By this I use technical codes to prove the this theory. Technical codes are used in the film Coach Carter to present the Protagonist Coach Carter in a positive light. Technical codes are split into sub-sections of Lighting and Dialogue. Each having there different perspective on how the character is seen in this particular way with each also having a different affect on how the viewer is positioned to feel about the characters actions, words and thoughts throughout the film. Technical codes have a huge importance on the way Coach Carter is presented in the film in this case positively. The use of Lighting in the film has positioned viewers to see Coach Carter in a Positive light. Bright lighting in a room represents positivity with darkness showing negativity, evilness and horror. An example of Coach Carter being respected in a positive way is when he is amongst his new fellow team (students) on his first day, His speech about the teams attitudes and his ways of learning and training are seen with a flash of dime light seen across his face. This effect shows Victory, positivity as well as viewed as Hero figure towards viewers. The use of lighting seen at this time reflects as well his speech obviously making it important and that he is seen as a Protagonist not an Antagonist which would have been seen with a dark atmosphere not light. The use of Dialogue positions viewers to see Coach Carter in a positive way. At the time of struggles with Principal___________ Coach Carter faces many negative comments from Parents and higher authorities though the character uses positive attitudes and words towards the goals and achievements the team wish to accomplish. Coach Carter quotes these kids can win games and achieve high if they set their minds to it, with Coach Carter saying this positivity towards the team and hope is seen through this characters dialogue or speech as if he said negative let down comments he would be portrayed in a negative light. Coach Carter is shown with a great heart at this time as he gives the team the opportunity to improve their studies over basketball as education is crucial in these circumstances and with him teaching the team this he is seen positively. The use of technical codes through lighting and Dialogue are crucial in positioning a viewer to think of a character in this case Coach Carter in a positive light. The use of Lighting against Coach Carter is present with a flash of light and Dialogue with the use of his Hopeful and positive speeches which brings this character forward as positive towards the team and others throughout the film. What Techniques does the film employ to present Coach Carter in a particular way? The use of Film codes in a film are used to position viewers about characters in a particular way. Film codes of Symbolic, Technical, audio and written are used to show the characters in a particular way. Camera angles and shots, lighting, Dialogue and behavioural attitudes and Symbolic objects are used to position viewers about the acts and speech towards others throughout the film. The use of Symbolic objects positions viewers to feel a bias perspective towards the characters. At the time of the lock out caused by the appalling scores from the team coach carter had decided to lock up the gym doors with a thick, metal chain. Throughout a film a chain normally represents power, strength and control. This action was committed by Coach Carter which positions viewers to think that the character has control, command and authority over the team. This shows that Coach Carter is strict and in control. This technique is used to give the viewer the understanding of what the character is like and how he has been purposely positioned by the director to manipulate viewers to think of him a Dominant. Camera angles are Technical codes that are used in the film to position Characters in a particular way. High camera angles are used in films to purposely show innocence and recessive (weak) attitudes towards the character who is being targeted at. Low camera angles are only used by coach carter to represent Authority and power. An example is with one of the meetings with principal___________ in between their argument Principal __________ is set sitting low against the chair with Coach Carter standing up proud looking down on her. This is purposely used to show viewers that coach carter has overtime grown to a higher authority and is more dominant over principal__________. These angles normally show in a film who holds the power at that particular time in this case we know from fact that Coach Carter holds that power as this is shown through the use of camera angles which are Technical Codes. Camera shots are Technical codes used to position viewers to think a particular way towards a character. Coach Carter is sometimes seen up close in intense situations such as at the time when racial comments are used in the gym by the team. Close ups show facial or emotional expressions based on what has been said. Though at this time by the way he is presented we know he is well educated with the fact that he knows what is said is wrong and he opposes the team about it. We are positioned by this to feel for coach carter as we think he comes from good willing intentions and that he is educated to see what is said is wrong. The overall use of camera shots is to show a characters feelings and emotions at a particular time throughout the film. Lighting is a Technical code used to display positively and negativity of a character that has been shot in a particular scene. The use of light is used to show the presence of trust and a hero figure (positively) with darkness representing negativity and troubled times. The scene when Coach Carter mentions that winning isnt everything a beam of dime light is flashed across his face. This is used to manipulate viewers to think that he is in the shape of a hero figure with the adjustment that what he is saying is trustworthy information and can be counted on. Darkness is used throughout the film on Temo Cruz when he is arguing back to Coach Carter on his first entrance to the gym. This shows trouble and bad attitude towards another as most of his face was covered in darkness with the Coaches in light. The use of lighting is important in depicting characters based on the attitudes and to compare and contrast characters with positively and negativity. Audio also known as background sound is a technique used to lead viewers to think about a character in a certain way. The use of RAP music is used at certain times of the film. One part is when Drugs is being dealt with by Temo Cruz in the streets, we compare this action to the music as Rap normally contains profanity language making it a negative and what is being done here, a criminal action which is negative we can easily link the actions of a character to the audio music played at that time. From this we can easily say that the character in the scene with this type of music is portrayed as negative to an audience. The use of audio is a great example in linking right and wrong actions or speech throughout a film. Overall the use of Film codes is to manipulate viewers to think a certain way about a character. The use of lighting, angle, shots, sound have all different effects on how the are used to base an opinion on a character. This perspective is Bias as techniques either present characters as Positive, negative, important or Dominant. Coach Carter is the main character that has most of these techniques used against him as he is the Antagonist and he needs to be easily recognised. The use of techniques has an impact on the feelings and emotions of characters based on their speech and actions. Motivation Motivation is key in impressing and keeping the attention of viewers. The basic plot line is based around an ex basketball coach that returns back to Richmond High school to take the position of training their poorly achievable basketball team. The thing that motivates viewers is the constant action of training and game playing as we are motivated to see who wins and losses throughout the course of the film. There is a high motivation with the speeches that come out of Coach Carter throughout the film as comments of commitment equals satisfaction this motivates viewers to think what is said would be seen later on a if it was false they wouldnt of made it to state championships. The film motivates viewers as it is under true fact, based on a true story this helps as important lines and dialogue is said to prompt viewers as we would like to see how the team ends up with Coach Carters helpful advice. I personally feel that the film motivates me as it is based on a true story and that t he plot is interesting enough to see what may happen in the end.

Personal Identity in Jonathan Swifts Gullivers Travels Essay

Personal Identity in Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels What establishes a person’s identity? What changes this personal identity? Psychologically, we have the ability to change our beliefs. Physically, our human bodies change. How do we frame the issue to better understand man’s inability to decipher his own self-identity, and more importantly, how do we know when and precisely where this change in identity occurs? Issues of personal identity are apparent in Gulliver’s Travels, by Jonathan Swift. Gulliver, the ambitious protagonist, has an insatiable desire for exploration, and throughout his four travels to four very different lands, he allows himself to be shaped by his environment, ironically in a negative way. In fact, his perspectives have changed so much that Gulliver is no longer the same person at the end of the novel as he was at the beginning. The period in which the book was written, the 18th century, is characterized by the intellectual study of the nature of man, as well as the progress of morality . Taking this into consideration, and examining Gulliver’s character, will bring to light issues of morality. Furthermore, examining Gulliver’s change in behavior and temperament from Derek Parfit’s reductionist point of view will offer further insight into non-religious ethics, since this 20th century philosopher holds ideas that are in accordance with the Age of Enlightenment and Reason, despite the lapse of two centuries. Parfit, author of Reasons and Persons, presents the concept of â€Å"Relation R,† or psychological continuity; this is key to understanding the change in personal identity of Gulliver, which occurs by degrees, and not in absolutes. Because of this, we cannot judge Gulliver based o... ... changed to so large an extent, we could no longer hold him responsible to his former commitments. This idea of Parfit’s is revolutionary, since it makes us rethink our instinct to label concepts in absolutes, and changes our perception of morality and punishment. Indeed, Parfit sought to effect change in society at large, arguing that most of us have a false belief about our own nature, and our identity over time, and when we understand and realize the truth, we realize we should change our beliefs. Gulliver’s lack of innate morality allowed him to be shaped by his surroundings, but the changes he experienced reflect the base nature of mankind and its ability to corrupt the good. Gulliver’s Relation R, symbolic of evil nature, forced his original self to break the promises he had made; the lack of justice in this situation showcases the need for moral progress.

Personal Strengths and Weaknesses Essay -- Personal Essays

Personal Strengths and Weaknesses We as individuals have to realize the importance of our strengths and weaknesses in order to make a difference in relating personal growth. Having different goals, priorities and special qualities about ourselves is what gives us individually. The purpose of this paper is to clearly define each of my strengths and weaknesses and figure out a way to identify my personal strengths and weaknesses. Doing so in order to enhance my learning process. In order for me to improve myself and enhance my learning process. Realizing the need to understand which methods and techniques that will better help me to learn at an optimal level. I think this class has definitely helped me understand which methods and techniques that will better improve my learning process. I also believe realizing my strengths and weaknesses will help me to become more self-conscious and a well-rounded individual. My personal strengths are my punctuality, discipline, and my ability to stay focused among the distractions. Punctuality is very important to me. I make sure to never be late and most of the time I arrive early for my appointments and engagements. I feel punctuality gives employers the idea you are eager and ready to engage in work. Having discipline is the ability to gain control by obedience is another one of my strong strengths. Discipline means having the tools to succeed in life and is something we all work on through out our lifetime. Discipline has gi...

Economics of Consumption Tax on Unhealthy Goods.

Economics of Consumption Tax on Unhealthy Goods. Introduction: Unhealthy consumption prevails in the fields of nutrition, energy and transport. Taxing is one a solution to provide a healthier living. With globalization, qualities of goods do fail to meet the international standards. International movements of goods which damage health are increasing with Cross border marketing, promoting unhealthy behaviours of alcohol and tobacco consumption and unhealthy diets. (Richard Smith, 2003). The report narrows down to Daily life consumption of tobacco and alcohol considering the impact of individual’s income, price of the produce and the substitutions available briefing on supply and demand. The taxing of unhealthy goods is segmented under consumption taxation rather than on income. For addictive goods, the level of consumption today not only causes harm tomorrow, but also increases the marginal benefit of future consumption. Literally every country charges through some sort of ad valorem tax through value added tax, sales tax or an expenditure tax. Economic Models to study Demand for Cigarettes: Studies on demand for cigarettes have applied several types of economic models to different types of data with various estimation techniques. In general, two types of economic models are used: the conventional demand model and the addictive demand model. These models have been applied to two types of data: aggregate level data including time-series data for a single geographical unit and pooled cross-sectional time-series data, and individual level of survey data. Conventional demand models which use aggregate data normally specify the demand equation in a way that the quantity of cigarettes demanded is a function of cigarette prices, income, tobacco control policies and a variety of socioeconomic and demographic factors. But there are two exceptions (Baltagi and Goel, 1987; Peterson et al. , 1992), in which a quasi-experiment approach was used to compare changes in cigarette consumption in states in the United States that have raised cigarette taxes to consumption in states where taxes have not changed. A small but growing number of studies have used data on individuals taken from large-scale surveys (Lewit et al. , 1981; Lewit and Coate, 1982; Grossman et al. , 1983; Chaloupka and Pacula, 1998; Farrelly et al. , 1998). These studies differ from those using aggregated data, in that they normally estimate a two-part model, by estimating firstly the probability that an individual will smoke and, secondly, the level of consumption among smokers. The conventional demand model does not account for the addictive nature of cigarette smoking. There are several versions of the addictive model that have been used for studying the demand for cigarettes: the imperfectly rational addiction model, myopic addiction model and rational addiction model (Chaloupka and Warner, 1999). The rational addictive model is the most recent model used for modelling demand for cigarettes (Becker and Murphy, 1988; Becker et al. , 1991; Pekurinen, 1991; Chaloupka, 1990, 1991, 1992; Keeler et al. , 1993). The rationality here simply implies that individuals incorporate the interdependence between past, current, and future consumption into their utility maximization processes. This is in contrast to the assumption, implicit in myopic models of addictive behaviours, that future implications are ignored when making the current decision. Empirically, the demand equation is specified as the quantity of cigarettes demanded in the current period being a function of both past and future consumption as well as those other factors included in the conventional demand model. Becker and Murphy (1988) and Becker et al. (1991) developed several hypotheses from the basic rational addiction model. First, the quantities of the addictive good consumed in different time periods are complementary. As a result, current consumption of an addictive good is inversely related to not only the current prices of the good, but also to the all past and future prices. Consequently, the long-term effect of a permanent change in prices will exceed the short-term effect. Moreover, the ratio of the long-term to short-term price effect increases as the degree of addition rises. In addition, the model predicts that the impact of an nticipated price change will be greater than that of a comparable un-anticipated price change, while a permanent price change will have a larger impact on demand than a temporary price change. Finally, price responsiveness varies with time preference: addicts with higher discount rates will be more responsive to changes in money prices that those with lower discount rates. Specific variables included in the demand model of each study vary, depending on the economic mode l used and the availability and type of the data. Important factors that have been evaluated include costs of cigarette smoking, consumers’ income, cigarette advertising and other promotion activities, and health information. The cost of cigarette smoking should be defined broadly, including not only the purchase price of cigarettes, but the time and other costs associated with smoking. Restrictions on smoking in public places and private work sites, for example, impose additional costs on smokers by forcing them outdoors to smoke, by increasing the time and discomfort associated with smoking, or by imposing fines for smoking in restricted areas. Similarly, limits on access to tobacco by youth may increase the time and potential legal costs associated with smoking. Supply and Demand- Price Elasticities : Cigarette consumption is found to be negatively related to price. The estimated price elasticity from those studies using aggregated data varies from -0. 14 to -1. 23, but most fall in the narrower range from -0. 3 to -0. 5, including the result from the two quasi-experimental studies (Baltagi and Goel, 1987; Peterson et al. , 1992). The estimated price elasticities from the studies using individual-level data, in general, are comparable to those estimates from the studies using the aggregate data. Nearly all of the studies of the price-demand relationship focus on the developed countries. Warner (1990) argued that price responsiveness in less developed countries is likely to be greater than in more developed countries, given the relatively low incomes and relatively lower level of cigarette consumption by smokers in poor countries. Are young smokers more or less sensitive to prices? The question of whether youth are more or less responsive to prices than are adults has been examined in a number of studies using individual-level data (Lewit, et al. , 1981; Lewit and Coate, 1982; Grossman et al. , 1983; Chaloupka, 1998). Findings from those studies are mixed. The earlier studies on this issue found that youth are more sensitive to prices than are adults. This result, however, was challenged by the study done by Wasserman et al. (1991), which found that the price responsiveness of youth was not significantly different from that of adults. Recent studies of youth and young adult smoking (Chaloupka and Grossman, 1996; Farrelly et al. , 1998; Tauras and Chaloupka, 1998) generally supported the earlier results that the price sensitivity of cigarette demand was inversely related to age. Those recent studies estimated the price elasticity of demand for cigarettes by youth was between -1. 1 and -1. 3, very similar to -1. 44 estimated Lewit et al. in1981. The price responsiveness of sub-population groups by income levels has been investigated by a number of researchers (Chaloupka, 1991; Townsend et al. , 1994; Farrelly et al. , 1998). Results from those studies indicate that cigarette demand is less price elastic for more educated or higher income individuals. The economics of â€Å"sin taxes†: Economists always draw sharp distinction between private costs and benefits and externalities. Where goods generate externalities when consumed, and where consumers make well informed, rational choices, efficient consumption choices would be made if tax levied at rate equal to marginal external cost. The 3 main categories of smoking and drinking externalities: -Direct externalities like Costs of passive smoking, Injury to victims of alcohol-fuelled violence and accidents. Costs of collectively-funded medical treatment and care– Treatment of the individual smoker / drinker for tobacco / alcohol –related conditions, other differences in medical treatment and care costs arising from individual consumption. -Other net public expenditure effects like forgone pensions and revenue effects. Under perfect compet ition the supply curve is the marginal cost to the firms in the business. Any costs that are borne by neither the seller nor the buyer must be added to these costs to create the social cost of the good. On the assumption that the only people who benefit from the consumption of the goods are the consumer themselves, the demand curve is the social benefit curve. |Figure 1 : Modelling Externalities | | | |[pic] | |Source :Issues in Economics Today, Robert | So, instead of coming to the market solution of a price-quantity combination P*-Q*, the socially optimal combination is P`-Q`. That is, if there is a market for a good where some of the costs spill over to others, then the market will produce too much of the good and charge too little for it. Modeling Taxes – Government Intervention To correct an externality, we can tax the osffending good, we can limit its use, and we can forbid its use. Of these options, taxes are most appealing to economists, as they allow people who are willing to pay all of the costs of their consumption to go ahead and consume. Using taxes in this way has the positive effect of discouraging those people who are not willing to pay the costs from becoming consumers of the undesirable or unhealthy good. |Figure 2 : Effect of Tax | | | |[pic] | |Source :Economics, John Sloman | When a tax is imposed on a good, this will have the effect of shifting the supply curve upwards by the amount of the tax. In the case of a specific tax, it will be a parallel shift, since the amount of the tax is the same at all prices. In the case of an advalorem tax, the curve will swing upwards. At a zero price there would be no tax and hence no shifts in the supply curve. As price rises, so the gap between the original and new supply curves will widen, since a given percentage tax will be a larger absolute amount the higher the price. The curve shift upwards by the amount of the tax because the firm is persuaded to produce the same quantity as before the imposition of the tax(Q1),and they must now receive a price which allows them fully to recoup the tax they have to pay(P1 + tax). The effect of the tax is to raise price and reduce quantity. Price will not rise by the full amount of the tax, however, because the demand curve is downward sloping. The price rises only to P2. Thus the burden or incidence of such taxes is distributed between consumers and producers. Consumers pay to the extent that price rises. Producers pay to the extent this rise in price is not sufficient to cover the tax. Discussions Increase in price of A will Increase the demand for B and vice versa. High taxation should relatively increase the consumption of quality goods. When related with the income of the general public the consumption is high when the income is high and would prefer luxury products over cheaper items. The availability of alternatives impact the consumption behaviour, people move towards cheaper produces. The consumption level is cut-down by stages and level of quitting or rehabilitation stages increase with alcohol than cigarettes with a relative cheaper price tag (diminishing marginal rate of substitution). The alternative of direct consumption of tobacco (oral or nasal stuffs) are taxed less than the branded cigarettes for example, some tax higher tar and nicotine cigarettes at higher rates than lower tar or nicotine cigarettes, while others impose lower taxes on smaller and/or filtered cigarettes than on longer and/or unfiltered cigarettes. The structure of tobacco taxes in most countries is a mix of both specific and ad valorem taxes that varies across tobacco products. (Frank J. Chaloupka et al) The consumption levels are just a trade-off between the available choices. The positive effect of tax is over powered by the illegal substitutes of drugs and addictive consumption. In addition, many suggest that ad valorem taxes are likely to lead to reductions in average product quality as producers and consumers switch to lower cost tobacco products (Barzel, 1976; British American Tobacco, 1994; Sobel and Garrett, 1997). The high market price will catalyze higher criminal activities as it becomes a habit to consume illegal products with the demand being almost constant. With increase in price the supply tends to increase. But in the addictive market, the supply curve facing issues of quality uncertainty tends to move upward depicting the decrease in supply even if the product is in the thick market. The supply curve literally becomes vertical reflecting on whatever the price market will bear even in the presence of multiple entrants. In the short run, with the demand being highly in-elastic, suppliers would enjoy setting up high price benefit from a high margin of profit after tax. Fluctuating around the firms’ marginal cost, higher prices does not bring in extra supply power. Rather excise tax on tobacco and alcohol are highly regressive in a longer-run where it is a loss to the firm making to exit from the industry. A tax increases the cost of selling each unit of a product and therefore usually decreases the willingness of sellers to supply given quantities. (Joseph J. Cordes et al, 2005). The higher the price elasticity of supply of a good or service, the greater the excess burden of a tax on its sale and vice versa. Conclusion: One can conclude the inelasticity of the demands for unhealthy goods (tobacco and alcohol) increases the consumption taxation as a whole with increase in revenue for the government. On a long run, chances are high for a shift towards elastic demand with respect to the prices. This allows a room for thinking for the policy makers to improve on the taxation procedure by concentrating on the supply side more than the consumer side of the market. References: Becker GS et al. (1991). ‘Rational addiction and the effect of price on consumption’. American Economic Review . Vol. 81 (2),pp. 237-41. Becker GS, et al (1994). ‘An empirical analysis of cigarette addiction’. American Economic Review. Vol. 84(3), pp. 396-418. Becker & Murphy KM (1988). ‘A theory of rational addiction’. Journal of Political Economy. Vol. 96(4), pp. 675-700 Chaloupka FJ. (1991). ‘Rational addictive behavior and cigarette smoking’. Journal of Political Economy . Vol. 99(4),pp. 722-42. Chaloupka FJ. (1998). ‘The Impact of Proposed Cigarette Price Increases’. Policy Analysis No. 9, Health Sciences Analysis Project. Washington: Advocacy Institute. Chaloupka FJ & Pacula RL. (1998). ‘An Examination of Gender and Race Differences in Youth Smoking Responsiveness to Price and Tobacco Control Policies’. National Bureau of Economic Research Working Paper No. 6541. Chaloupka FJ, Warner KE . (1999). ‘The economics of smoking’. In: Newhouse JP, Culyer AJ, editors. The Handbook of Health Economics. Ediiton. 1, Chapter. 29, pp. 1539-1627. Chaloupka FJ, Wechsler H. (1997). ‘Price tobacco control policies and smoking among young adults’. Journal of Health Economics. Vol. 16(3), pp. 359-73. Peter Earl, Tim Wakeley (2005). Business Economics: A Contemporary Approach. Berkshire: McGraw – Hill Education. Frank, R. (2008). ‘The Economic Naturalist: Why Economics Explains Almost Everything’. Virgin Books. John Sloman (2000). Economics. (Fourth Edition). Essex. : Prentice Hall. Joseph et al(2005). Encyclopedia of taxation and tax policy’. (Second Edition). Washiington. : Urban Institute Press Mirrlees, J. , (2000). ‘What taxes should there be? ’. Paper Presented at the 7th Annual Conference, Toulouse, France. March 24. Robert C. Guell (2005). ‘Issues in Economics Today’ (Second Edition). New York. :Tata Mcgraw Hill -Irwin Selected case studies: ‘Issues in the global tobacco economy’. Food and Agriculture Organ ization of the United Nations,Rome, 2003. ———————– Word Count: 2192

Corporate governance Essay

Introduction Corporate governance refers to a system of mostly rules, practices as well as procedures that direct as well as control a company. In most cases it involves the balancing of all the stakeholders that have an interest in the company including the management, shareholders, government, the community to mention but a few depending on the company. Essentially, corporate governance provides a framework that if followed will help the company attain its objective in an all round manner. Though a relatively new phenomenon, this concept has been able to take the world by storm with countries that have embraced it turning in a lot of development that their counterparts. The embracing as well as the internalization of corporate governance by different countries has been able to foster growth and development while creating a business friendly environment in which companies can co-exist with the state as well as the communities in which they operate (Fernando, 2009, p.23). Case study: the United States As recent as 2002, the United States enacted the Sarbanes-Oxley bill into law making it an act. This was ushered in to restore the public’s confidence in companies and markets. Prior to this act, there had been a string of bankrupted high profile companies that had been brought down by internal accounting fraud. This left a twist that ensured that the companies would essentially be governed by state laws and therefore failure due to breach of such laws would be answerable to the government. This ensures that not only are the interests of the company shareholders protected but that then community that usually benefits from activities such as employment are also taken care off. Thus, the country has over years adopted different legislations both at the federal as well as state level that ensure that corporate governance is fully realized in the state. Therefore, from the United States, the UK can learn to enact strong legislations that would act as a guidelines to both state as well as the companies and any other stakeholders of the importance of embracing corporate governance. This would also serve the purpose of regulating corporations that will then have to acknowledge the fact that rules have been put in place and therefore have to be followed and that failure of compliance would lead to outlined penalties (Chew & Gillan, 2009, p. 3). Case study: India India, unlike the United States, has created a committee that deals with corporate governance know as the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The board that in most cases takes on a trustee role for all the companies in India was created through the adoption of SEBI Act, 1992. The act gives the body statutory powers to be able to carry out its duties and functions. These approach adopted in India is believed to have been adopted from the Ghanaian principle of trusteeship and that it is a directive of the Indian constitution with a little twist in between. The preamble of the body is to among other functions â€Å"†¦to protect the interests of investors in securities and to promote the growth (Das, 2008, p. 7). Reference Chew, D. H., & Gillan, S. L. 2009. U.S. corporate governance. New York, N.Y., Columbia   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   University Press. Das, S. C. 2008. Corporate governance in India: an evaluation. New Delhi, Prentice-Hall of   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   India. Fernando, A. C. 2009. Corporate governance: principles, policies and practices. New Delhi,   Ã‚  Ã‚   Pearson Education.   

Transcendentalism was a cult or so to say, a rejection of God Essay

Transcendentalism was a spiritual, philosophical, literary movement that took place in the Boston area between the 1830s and late 1840s (Buchanan 1). The main idea was that the â€Å"soul of the individual is identical to the soul of the world and that it contains what the world contains,† and that the mind can apprehend absolute spiritual truths directly without having to detour through authorities and senses. This idea revolved around idealism, which is defined as â€Å"any theory positing the primacy of spirit, mind, or language over matter† (Campbell 2-3). Some have stated that Transcendentalism was a cult or so to say, a rejection of God. In reality, the movement was a preference to explain an individual and the world in terms of this individual. The individual was considered to be the spiritual center of the universe. Though not a cult, transcendentalism has ties to major religions. From Puritanism we get morality and the doctrine of divine light. From the Quakers, comes the inner light. Then, with Unitarianism there is the belief of the individual, the true source of the moral light (Reuben 2). Lockean philosophy, which involves all objects of the understanding described to be ideas, and ideas are spoken of as being in the mind, as well as Calvinist beliefs were used to underwrite the belief in Christianity and to focus on science and cognizance (Bickman 2). Ralph Waldo Emerson explains the name and the idea behind the movement with his profound statement, â€Å"It is well known to most of my audience, that the Idealism of the present day acquired the name of Transcendental, from the use of that term by Immanuel Kant, of Konigsberg, who replied to the skeptical philosophy of Locke, which insisted that there was nothing in the intellect which was not previously in the experience of the senses, by showing that there was a very important class of ideas, or imperative forms, which did not come by experience but through which experience was acquired: that these were intuitions of the mind itself; and he denominated them the Transcendental forms. â€Å" With the Unitarian church, came the optimistic and rationalistic ideas which lead to Transcendentalism. William Ellery Channing, Andrews Norton, and Edward Everett were ministers and philosophers of this time who were tied with the church. They pretty much made the transcendentalists who they were (Bickman 2). Those who agreed with the ideas of the church and the ideas of Emerson joined a club named, The Transcendental Club. Emerson was the head of it, and Hedge, Francis, Clarke, and Alcott would meet at George Ripley’s house to form this organization. The organization was formed to exchange the thought of new ideas in philosophy, theology, and literature, but the members never decided to come up with a new form of religion (â€Å"Transcendentalism† 333). The taken philosophical meaning of this organization was that the â€Å"man’s practical and imaginative faculties play a part in his apprehension of the truth. † In the art and literature world was a â€Å"creation of works filled with the new passion for nature and common humanity and incarnating a fresh sense of the wonder, promise, and romance of life† (327). Emerson was an educated man who studied at Harvard. He was a minister during the time of the Transcendental Club, and when his wife died, he decided to resign since he could not participate in communion. Emerson then decided to write poetic prose, essays with recurring themes (â€Å"Emerson† 1). He believed that â€Å"reason is the highest faculty of the soul? what we mean by the soul itself; it never reasons, never proves, it simply perceives; it is wisdom† (Campbell 4). With the ideas of oversoul, reason, wisdom, and perception, Emerson wrote what would be the most important essay in his life, Nature (Bickman 4). The focus of the essay was to describe the nature of life and how we are supposed to live. The essay helps to distinguish between macrocosm and microcosm, the difference in the world outside of an individual and that of the world inside (Campbell 4). The introduction expresses how a creature is to interact with God, how nature has no secrets, and how nature is divided between body and soul. After the introduction, Emerson divides the essay into sections titled as â€Å"Nature†, â€Å"Commodity†, â€Å"Beauty†, â€Å"Language†, â€Å"Discipline†, â€Å"Idealism†, â€Å"Spirit†, and â€Å"Prospects†. Throughout these chapters come this Transcendental / Romantic idea. There are no secrets in this form of intervention. Reality is split into nature and the soul (Steinhart 1). By going outside and looking at the stars, you can have a direct relation with nature, but your mind must be open. Emerson mentions, â€Å"I become a transparent eye-ball; I am nothing; I see all; the currents of the Universal Being circulate through me; I am part or particle of God. † He explains how open minded a person can be, and how they can connect with the oversoul through this process (2). Nature is only here to serve for our human needs, so it needs to be used wisely (3). Nature is also strict truth without ambiguity, and it can be perceived as an incarnation of God (8, 11). Emerson and other Transcendentalists believe that humans have the mental power and capacity to power over our own bodies (11). In other words, we control what goes on in our life by using our mind. And towards the end of the essay, comes the idea that when we are saved and restored, in the end we as beings will have the powers equal to those of God (13). Emerson was not the only Transcendental writer. Others included Margaret Fuller, Theodore Parker, Jones Very, Elizabeth Palmer Peabody, and the original Dr. William Ellery Channing. The closest known to Emerson would have to be Henry David Thoreau. Thoreau also grew up in Massachusetts and while in college studied Emerson’s Nature (â€Å"Great? † 1-2). The essay influenced Thoreau to keep a journal of his philosophies. The most influential journal published would be Walden (2). Walden is an autobiography / pastoral / extended familiar essay / literary excursion that pulls the reader into a mythic time that can be related to the present (6). Overall, the journal explains to the reader why the spiritual discipline is necessary for coming into the presence and possession of the sacred world (7). Transcendentalism was the living force that seemed to be extinguished as quickly as the flame started. Perry Miller, a professor at Harvard, says â€Å"Parker killed himself with overwork, and Thoreau expanded himself; Emerson dissolved into aphasia, Ripley subsided into disillusion, Hedge became a Harvard professor? Brownsun became a catholic, as did Sophia Ripley, and Elizabeth Peabody became a ? character’. † In the end, Emerson and Thoreau were easily the most well known out of the Transcendentalists. Emerson’s essays and Thoreau’s Walden seemed to be more popular than the rest of the group (Bickman 4). The thoughts of the Transcendentalists still live on, but as for the writing, it has pretty much ended. Personally, I highly recommend that everyone should read at least one piece from the Transcendentalism period. The reading is very influential and gets the reader thinking about life and how things fall together. The readings also change the reader’s perception of religion and could bring on an interest in theology. From reading Nature and Walden myself, I became hooked on the thought of the oversoul and the internal light within us. The stories impacted my spiritual being, as well as my mind. The philosophies of Transcendentalists also make the reader wonder where the thoughts come from and how they derive these thoughts. In all, it is in a way needed that everyone reads some of the Transcendentalists work, just for a change in thought. Works Cited Bickman, Martin. â€Å"An Overview of American Transcendentalism. † Internet. Available: http://www. vcu. edu/engwed/transcendentalism/ideas/definition. html 6 Apr 2004. Campbell, Donna M. â€Å"American Transcendentalism. † Literary Moments. Internet. Available: http://www. gonzaga. edu/faculty/campbell/enl311/amtrans. html 6 Apr 2004. â€Å"Ralph Waldo Emerson. † Internet. Available: http://www. poets. org/poets. cfm? prmID=205 19 Apr 2004. Great Thinkers of the World. HarperCollins Publishers, 1999. 372. Reuben, Paul P. â€Å"Chapter 4: Early Nineteenth Century ? American Transcendentalism: A Brief Introduction. † PAL: Perspectives in American Literature ? A Research and Reference Guide. Internet. Available: http://www. csustan. edu/english/reuben/pal/chap4/4intro. html 6 Apr 2004. Steinhart, Eric. â€Å"Commentary on Ralph Waldo Emerson’s Nature. † Internet. Available: http://www. wpunj. edu/cohssi/philosophy/COURSES/PHIL218/NATURE. HTM 6 Apr 2004. â€Å"Transcendentalism. † The Cambridge History of American Literature. New York: The Macmillan Company, 1917. 326 – 348.

Innovation Description of Rtc and the Outcome Essay

In my opinion, I prefer to describe RTC as a ‘Blue Sky Innovator’. The reason is that it is relatively autonomy from the Pfizer and the employees there enjoyed creative and flexible research environment. To some extent, it has worked successfully since it has created several drugs per year, and its managerial style has attracted many scientists to join it. It even provide free innovation network for all the sites of Pfizer. However, it has also put itself into a passive position, which resulted in many challenges. This is because it was fully founded by Pfizer, which make them has less authority to manage its employees, which made it hard to recruit new scientists from top universities like Cambridge. The other challenge is that they could not easily convince headquarters of Pfizer to try their new drugs or listen to their presentations. The final challenge is that the ambiguity of mission makes both leaders and employees confused of their goals, which may lead to unsucc essful future. Evaluation of RTC through an Organizational Criteria, Partnership In terms of its partnership, either with the corporation or the other research sites, RTC did quite well to some extent. On one hand, RTC has successfully provided new drugs to Pfizer, and also been trying hard to make closer relationship with Pfizer, by sending many leaders regularly to Pfizer and build personal relationship between the staff. This has made some progress, for example, Pfizer site will track weekly for the process of the projects in RTC, showing big interests of them. RTC has also built relationship with other sites. For example, the Strategic Alliance group and 11-member Research Informatics team, which provides RTC opportunities to work with other sites. On the other hand, it also suffered from these relationships. RTC has to avoid competing with them, which indicates they may miss many opportunities to enhance revenue. The other reason is mentioned above, which is that the passive part of this partnership between RTC and the corporation made it hard to recruit emp loyees or even stimulate them. Recommendation of the Models I recommend that Frank Drake pursue focus more on opportunities as an innovation and technology ‘pusher’. Since there is already one successful example, the ‘biotrove’ project, which could provide some experience of how to cooperate with the scholars and experts. Besides, it could help RTC to build independence from the corporation, as well as other sites. It could be explained as that if RTC did quite well in innovation and technology and market it well, then it could get contracts from the corporation easily. Moreover, if RTC keep trying to spread its awareness around the world, it could even attract cooperation from outside of the firm. As a result, they do not have to only depend on the cooperation with Pfizer to make profit. It could enhance self-control instead, which is good for recruiting and keeping employees. Maybe when RTC finished its step of becoming independent, it could begin to think of another way to grow its business.

Cavalier Poetry

Cavalier Poetry is an early 17th century movement centered chiefly on Thomas Carew, Robert Herrick, Richard Lovelace, Henry Vaughn and John Suckling. Ben Jonson admired most of these poets. Cavalier Poetry takes its name from the supporters of King Charles I in the 17th century. These supporters at this period were called the Cavaliers; They were royalists during the civil wars. Aspect of Literary characteriscs, Cavalier Poetry is different from metaphysical poetry because it does not use complicated metaphors and unrealistic imagery. It prefers a rather clear expression. Although It did not confuse readers with deep meaning and allegory It reflected every thought. Its subject was mostly related to carpe diem (meaning seize the day). Using of direct language is the most common characteristic of Cavalier Poetry. This states a fairly individualistic personality. While writing, the Cavaliers admit the ideal of the Renaissance Gentleman who is a soldier, a lover, clever, a musician, and a poet. However They keep away from the religion subject except making several graceful speeches. They do not try understand depths of soul. Indeed, they treat life freely, and occasionally they treat poetic canvention freely, as well. Life is too enjoyable for them in a study. They must write the poems in intervals of living and their poems reflect things which are much alive and enjoyable than philosophy or art. English Lyrical Tradition was contributed by the Cavaliers. They displayed us that it was probable for poetry celebrating the small pleasures and sadnesses of life. The most comman format of poetry that comes to mind is a typical example of the Cavalier thought structure.

The Appeal of Marilyn Monroe Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Appeal of Marilyn Monroe - Research Paper Example Grady Johnson’s article for the Coronet magazine, written in 1952, captures the popularity and appeal of Marilyn Monroe when she was a rising star in Hollywood. He notes how the emerging star had seen 11 private foster homes in the first 16 years of her life. Coming out of this uncertain start is tough enough. But when we take into account how she’d always felt as an unwanted, underprivileged and low self-esteemed child, this maturation into a beautiful heartthrob is all the more astounding. Even as early as 1952, she was described with adoration by various journalists and film analysts. Here’s a sample: â€Å"She has been pegged the most promising star of 1952 by Movie Columnist Hedda Hopper, and described by Saloon-and-Sex authority Earl Wilson as having â€Å"the year’s most outstanding figure.† Producer Jerry Wald says, â€Å"She walks like a young antelope. When she stands, it's like a snake uncoiling. When she speaks, you don’t hear h er words – it’s as though she were whispering love to you.† She even is developing a singularly unnecessary skill as an actress.† (Johnson, 1952) If such is the adoration of seasoned critics and commentators, one can understand the kind of impact Monroe must have made on the general public. She was able to transcend class and gender barriers and garner the admiration of a whole generation. Even today her legacy is firmly established and her iconic status remains undiminished.  Ã‚   An aspect of Marilyn Monroe’s personal life which had added to her appeal is her numerous affairs. It is not surprising for actresses of her time to be involved with rich and powerful men. She had had relationships with sport stars, co-male-stars, and even with President John F. Kennedy. Instead of diminishing or sullying her image in the public eye, this tendency had only enhanced her romantic appeal. During her peak, she was every man’s dream girl. (Lockwood, 20 11) Contradictions in Personality Acting did not come easily to Marilyn Monroe. Her personal insecurities and vulnerabilities showed up as stage fright and shyness during her early years of

Risk takers Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Risk takers - Coursework Example A risk-taker is a type of an entrepreneur who decides to involve oneself in a risky venture without necessarily taking consideration on the extent of the harm that the venture will cause. This type of an entrepreneur is full of vigor and strength and is fully prepared to undergo all the necessary downfalls that are attached to the risk. A perfect example for this is an entrepreneur buying out a bond during economic boom. In case of a chance of economic downturn, the individual will incur a lot of risk and the net worth of his investments will be negative. This is a type of an investor who doesn’t like involving oneself in risky ventures. He knows and understands the possible outcome of indulging oneself in such activities. This does not guarantee success in any of his ventures. This type of an individual clearly prepares himself to take a risk in case of an option where risk is involved and there is no loophole for escape. He clearly sets out steps to follow and possible procedures to take in case the risk binds him. A risk neutral person is neither a risk-taker nor a risk-averse entrepreneur; he operates comfortably in all the environments and is fully prepared to face the risk in case it binds him down. On the other hand, in case the risk doesn’t affect him, he emerges out as a victor. A risk-taker is bound to enjoy more success in his ventures than a risk-averse person. This is so, because, a risk-taker operates comfortably in a risky environment without necessarily taking caution, this binds him to succeed. A risk-averse takes caution in everything that he, in case of taking risk in order to achieve success, and then the risk-averse person does not comprehend. A risk-neutral entrepreneur operates comfortably under all the

Assisted Suicide Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Assisted Suicide - Research Paper Example Assisted suicide can be in form of Physician assisted suicide, whereby the physician provides the means for death, or Euthanasia which occurs in three forms which include; voluntary, non-voluntary and involuntary euthanasia. Voluntary euthanasia is whereby the patient gives his or her consent for the termination of his life while non-voluntary is whereby the consent of the patient cannot be acquired maybe due to the reason that he or she cannot make independent decision for example in a child. Involuntary euthanasia refers to the situation whereby the patient is assisted to die against his or her will (Sissela, 2005). This essay will discuss issues concerning assisted suicide revolving around the following scenario. â€Å"You are the manager of the Cancer Center in a small suburban hospital. For the past two weeks you have worked closely with your nursing staff because they have been expressing â€Å"Burn Out† (frustration, dissatisfaction, or lack of interest in a job) as a result of the increase in the number of patients coming to the center who were diagnosed with terminal cancer. Nancy Nurse confided in you that she is particularly saddened about the rapid decline in Mrs. Jones’ health, a 30 year old single mother. She decided that the next time Mrs. Jones comes in for her treatment, she is going to give her an extra dose of a narcotic that could potentially end her life.† The bill of rights protects each and every person against threats to life whether self imposed or otherwise. This means that it is a crime for a person to terminate his or her life through suicide and in fact if not successful, one may face punishment through imprisonment. However, there have been heated constitutional debates on the legality of physician assisted suicide, whereby some support the act while others oppose it based on moral and religious basis (Manning, 2002). In the

International business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 9

International business - Essay Example In a word OPEC maintains the price and distribution control of petroleum as they are largest crude oil producers globally. In order to reduce the oil dependency on the OPEC countries US went for the introduction of substitute of fossil fuel. Ethanol is the effective solution and substitute. The ethanol industry from the starting days has created the objective in order to achieve the target audience base. In order to become the strongest economy the US government has motivated the industry from the starting point. The reduced dependency on OPEC will cut down several oil cost of US economy. Moreover, the adoption and the usage of ethanol will solve many problems. The problems of fuel consumption, emission of green house gas and air pollutant will be overcome (Elmendorf, 2009). The objective of the study is to analyze the ethanol industry according to the case study. The analysis will be followed by the industry SWOT analysis in US, and then the study will reveal the critical thinking, decision making and strategic analysis about the case in order to achieve the desired objective. Moreover the industry related issues are being found for the purpose of the study. The major objective is to bring the strategic solutions of those problems and structure some recommendations. Finally the study ends with the evaluation of analysis and conclusions. Ethanol is produced by sugar fermentation. It is an alcohol found in grains and different biomass. Now-a-days ethanol industry is one of the leading and profitable industries worldwide. In order to achieve the objective of the study ethanol industry SWOT analysis has been implemented. The SWOT analysis is consisting of internal strengths and weaknesses of an industry or a product or a service and external threat and opportunities and threats of those. Reliable, cost efficient and flexible supply and distribution network is the important strength of ethanol industry in US.

Compare & Contrat (ancient) greece &rome Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Compare & Contrat (ancient) greece &rome - Essay Example There are lot of similarities and differences between these two ancient civilizations. This paper briefly explains the similarities and differences between these two great civilizations of all time. Both Greek and Rome civilizations originated in cities. Greece was situated near the coastal area whereas Rome was located in the geographical middle of a generally north-south plain bordered on the east with mountains and on the west by the sea (Comparisons Between the Ancient Greeks and Romans) Both the ancient Romans and the Greeks enjoyed recreational activities a lot. Many of the sports and games at present are the modifications of the ancient Greek and Rome recreational activities. For example the current form of wrestling and boxing has originated from these civilizations. In fact these civilizations can be considered as the originators of recreational activities in the world. Ancient Greeks were succeeded in inventing Olympic Games for the recreational purpose. Every city in Greece and Rome had at least one gym during this period. Both the civilizations were well aware of the need of physical workouts to keep the health intact. Moreover, the women community also had their own ways of recreation. Music, drama, dance, and poetry were some of the common items among the women community for recreational purposes during this period (Ancient Greece) The Flavian Amphitheater or Colosseum Was Erected by Flavian Emperors in Rome for recreational activities during this period. The purpose of the Colosseum was to provide entertainment to the public and the Roman emperors.  The games included were gladiatorial contests, wild-beast hunts, and reenactment of battles the Romans had fought. Collosseums were constructed in oval shape in order to give all the spectators a clear view of what was going on inside. The modern construction technology of modern football grounds can be attributed to the

Ideas are more dangerous than guns Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Ideas are more dangerous than guns - Essay Example e last century – Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela played pivotal roles in achieving freedom for their nations by adopting and implementing the idea of non-violence rather than carrying guns. It is very important to preserve your ideas and use them to your advantage. The greatest innovations in the world have been results of great ideas. Someone had an idea of flying and airplane was invented. Some other person got an idea of distant communication and telephone came into existence. There are many examples where ideas got stolen or leaked from a company and got converted into billion dollar companies. Xerox is one company where maximum ideas have come from or have leaked. Some of today’s biggest technology companies have used ideas developed at Xerox’s Palo Alto Research Centre to come up with wonderful products. Schools and Colleges are places where the foundation to get amazing ideas is developed. Colleges enable students to have knowledge of various subjects and courses. Ideas are like sparks which get generated by the amalgamation of different subjects such as Sciences, Mathematics, Psychology, Geography, History, Statistics and so on. Hence, colleges play a very crucial role in equipping students with weapons essential to develop radical ideas and make those ideas more dangerous than

Comparing and contrasting Beyonce Knowles and Kelly of Destiny child Essay

Comparing and contrasting Beyonce Knowles and Kelly of Destiny child - Essay Example Since these two popular artist started in the same group of singing, therefore, their close relationship that can be determined from their past to present through comparison and contrasting their current popularity and new ventures. Remaining relevant in the music industry is a key issue for both artists. The two artists have remained relevant in the music industry in different ways. From their group of four, they are the two popular artists who can still be identified from the group. Despite remaining relevant, Beyonce has hit the music industry in a major way. This can be seen from hits after hits that she releases annually when compared to Kelly. Although Kelly also has some hits to identify with, they cannot be compared to the number of hits that Beyonce has had since the group broke up. Beyonce is currently known at least to have released hits that are not yet even been performed. Some of the music that Beyonce has recorded has hit the airwaves before she has even performed the songs to her funs. It is thus vital to note that, Beyonce remains to be more popular than her childhood friend Kelly whom they formed the popular group with and went on separate ways after deciding to go for single records. Over one millions likes in the media like facebook, twitter and you-tube videos for Beyonce are evident unlike those of Kelly Rowland. Marriage, relationship and venture into different career paths are also a key role that has determined the relevance of Kelly and Beyonce in the music industry. For Kelly, she has taken more of a different path in popular music when compared to Beyonce. Kelly has taken advertisements of major industries as her major. She has done more advertisement related gigs from her music talent when compared to Beyonce. In her music career, she remains relevant in most instances due to the adverts and the reality shows that she takes part in. More so, both have been involved in one or two movies that have been aired globally. Beyonce has the main actress in the ‘dream girls’ while Kelly has also been part of American black films that has maintained her relevancy in the popular music industry. For Kelly, nothing much has been heard of her successful relationships after the singles while Beyonce has hit a record of being a wife to a well represented artist globally called Jay-z. Beyonce has maintained a good marriage relationship when compared to Kelly who has no clear records of dating or marrying anyone through her music life (Arenofsky 5). Therefore, both have diverse preferences when it comes to marriages and ventures in to other forms of careers. Did their singles make a hit or collaboration was the main idea as to why they have remained relevant after their separation from the group? Well, it is evident that for Knowles, she had single hits that made her even more famous after her going single. She has had albums that have not featured any famous popular singer but still remaining very popular to her fu ns. For example, even after releasing songs like, ‘If I was a boy’ and ‘all the single ladies’ alone, she still attracted a large crowd of funs who could demand for more and more of her single album. She has given her funs the best of hits ever since she parted from her group. From my perception, it is like her being in the group was suppressing her talents and popularity. She could not have been known to be such a famous popular

Route 66 and of Mice and Men Essay Example for Free

Route 66 and of Mice and Men Essay John Steinbeck wrote many novels, including Of Mice and Men and The Grapes of Wrath. In the book, Of Mice and Men, he mentions the historic Route 66. A short summary of â€Å"Of Mice and Men,† background information, and the correlation of Route 66 and The Grapes of Wrath will describe how the two are related. First, in the book Of Mice and Men, Lennie and George travel from ranch to ranch looking for jobs as ranch hands. There is a problem with Lennie and a woman at the ranch of Weed, so he and George go to a new ranch. When they arrive, they meet Curley, Slim, Crooks, Curley’s Wife, and others. They help out around the ranch while getting paid. Lennie and George do not spend their money because they have a dream house they are saving up for. Lennie always talks about â€Å"Tending the rabbits† and the great times they will have when they get the house. The other ranch hands hear about this plan and want in. Unfortunately, Curley’s wife was a whore and tried to get on Lennie, even after he killed his puppy, thinking that it would bounce off the ground. Lennie likes soft things, like mice and soft fabrics, so when Curley’s wife offered for Lennie to touch her hair, he grabbed on and didn’t let go. She started screaming so Lennie choked her. After George found out that Lennie killed her, he realized that he would have to go to an asylum where he would be probed and tested because of the mental disabilities he had. George had to shoot him and go on his way. Next, the Historic Route 66 played a great role in American history, especially during the Great Depression. This route was made of dirt and rocks, and stretched from Chicago to Los Angeles. It crossed a lot of the Midwest, Great Plains, and the Southwest. Historic Route 66 does not exist anymore, but highways and other paths can be taken to get a feel of the distance and scenery. Following, John Steinbeck, in his 1940 novel Grapes of Wrath, chronicled the migration along Route 66 of thousands of farmers leaving the Dust Bowl of Kansas and Oklahoma during the Great Depression, trying to reach a better land in California. Steinbeck posited the road as an almost hostile force, draining money, energy, and enthusiasm from the optimistic Okies. In Of Mice and Men, the highway that George walks to after Lennie is dead is the famous Historic Route 66. In conclusion, Route 66 was a major part of both John Steinbeck’s novels and the American history of the Great Depression. It helped many migrant farmers get to a better life in California and shaped our nation for years to come.

Understanding The Roles Of Vodafone Telecommunications Information Technology Essay

Understanding The Roles Of Vodafone Telecommunications Information Technology Essay Vodafone group plc is a global telecommunications company based its headquarter in Newbury, United Kingdom. If measured by the revenues its a largest telecommunication company in the world, along with this if measured by the subscribers its the worlds second largest just behind the china mobile. As Vodafone is a global company, it is providing services in more than 30 countries not only this Vodafone has other partner networks in 44 different countries. The Vodafone name comes from three different things which are voice, data and fone which reflect to providing services of voice and data over the devices (Mobile phones etc). The company was formed in the year of 1984 basically as a subsidiary of Racal Electronics Plc. In start the company named as Racal Telecom Limited but it was fully demerged and changed the name as Vodafone Group plc in 1991. The main objective of this specific report is to probe into the organisations information systems, structure of organization, analyze the information requirements, decision making, Business strategies, IS strategy, IT strategy, ethical issues, strength, weaknesses, opportunities, goals and objectives, managerial levels, benefits, and some other environmental factors. Furthermore this report will be the evidence of understanding of the entire studies which is conducted in this module and also the real world market. Organizational Structure The number of employees in Vodafone UK is over 10,000. Vodafone aim to provide a fair, safe and flexible workplace which helps to motivates their employees to work hard and to feel engaged and create better environment to the work. The below is organisation structure of Vodafone group; Vodafone Group Plc organisation chart Diagram: Vodafone organizational structure (www.vodafone.com) Marketing development organization As marketing is very important tool to expand the businesses in this modern world. Vodafone is continuously working on it to compete with the market and also fulfil the peoples requirements. Vodafone is using different ways to advertise their products (services) such as Zonal marketing trial, Idle screen, Branded applications and widgets trial, Location based advertising trial and so on. Within these different types of marketing advertisement, Vodafone is keep in touch with the customers to knowing their requirements and also providing them better services. Mission statement A mission statement of an organization is very important to indicate itself. It is just a sentence but it is full description of general purpose and intention of that organization. The mission statement tells the employees what they are working for; along with this persuade the customers to buy the products or services. A mission statement is that which define the basic reasons for the existence of an organization and helps legitimise its function in society (Robson, 1997). Mission statement of Vodafone is; We will be the communications leader in an increasingly connected world This specific mission statement shows that it is Communication Company / organization, which goal is to become the leader to connect the world rapidly. Goals and objectives The goals and objectives play vital role to a company. As this is a modern age and every company is facing challenges to compete with the current market , same Vodafone has some goals which they are trying to reach. Vodafone is continuously working to update and meet the requirement of the customers. To reach on the top and accomplish with the goals Vodafone has some objectives which they are completing step by step. Below are some goals which Vodafone is willing to achieve; Create Authenticity in expanding communication technologies. Connectivity between different devices in future. To understand and use (web) data in more ways. To find options and possibilities of energy. Improvement of services in each part of country. (www.vodafone.com/start/about_vodafone/future_agenda.html) Strategy The strategy of the organization indicates its prospects and also helps to improve the business. Strategy of an organization can be defined as the identification of the purpose of the organization and the plans and action to achieve the purpose (Lynch, 2006). The strategy of Vodafone changes with the passage of time, because in the year of 2006 Vodafone intentions were different according to the year 2009 and 2010. The Strategic focus in 2009 is on operational performance, total communications, emerging markets, capital discipline. Environmental analysis Political factor The political factors are very effective for the organizations. If the political factors are in favor of the organization then it will be easy to navigate and boost the business. It is also said that managers should operate within the laws and regulations of the host country (Gray Larson 2008). The stability of political issues in the specific region or country and local laws sturdily influence the performance of organization. Without the information of the local laws and regulations there is a possibility of facing penalty which could lead to a big loss. If we have a look on Vodafone globe, we will come to know that its price plans and other services are different according to the country law and demand of nation. So the organization must need to understand and obey the local laws of the country where it is operating. Economic factor The economical factors can also have adverse effect on the organizations profitability and productivity. Vodafone was quite better in economy but because of recent downturns in economy it was affected in some countries. Vodafone Spain reported turnover of euro 6,982 million in the last financial year, 2.6 % less than the previous. (Vodafone 2009). To get economically strong Vodafone is working continuously to improve the economy of the company. Recently Vodafone has extended the services for customers; this could lead to improve the economy. Social /cultural factor As Vodafone is expanded in different countries, so they have to understand the requirements and social issues of specific country / region. Vodafone have created social networking and social media sites which helps to communicate and information sharing. Along with this Vodafone have agreements with so many social networking sites to offer the services. Vodafone always put efforts for safe social networking. (www.vodafone.com) Technological factor There is technology revolution at this present age. Every day new technology arrives with so many advanced enhancements. It is becoming necessary for an organization to keep update with their technology and to keep with the pace of the modern life, it also play the part to compete with the market. Vodafone is always active to keep update its technology to satisfy the customers and also to fulfil with the modern requirements. For this Vodafone announced the launch of its latest Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) certified Mobile Wi-Fi device, the R201. (Vodafone, aug 2010) Ecological factors In a report it is mentioned that there are more than 800 million mobile devices are in use and these are growing every day as new technology is in market. The using and expanding of these devices are not that good for health and ecologically. Vodafone keeping in mind these all issue thats why Vodafone Ireland has announced to reduce CO2 emission by 30% by 2011. With the progress Vodafone is also working to create a better environment for future. SWOT analysis SWOT analysis is a method of strategic planning which is used to evaluate the Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats related in a project or in any task. SWOT analysis specifies the objectives of the project and also identifies the internal and external factors of the project. Strength Vodafone always struggle to make the network outstanding. Vodafone is committed to giving you a network you can depend on. The first priority of Vodafone is make sure that people can use mobile and connect to the internet where they are, and whenever they want. Vodafone competitors are also upgrading their services to persuade the customers but speciality of Vodafone is, its network is expanding but also provides better signal strength indoor and outdoor. Vodafone is keeping in mind to provide a such network which has journey of a call, fast and reliable connections and a network you can trust. (www.vodafone.com) Weakness As every company have some weaknesses, same Vodafone sometimes face such problems. The first weakness of Vodafone is its less connectivity in rural areas. Shares in Vodafone fell to lowest point but still head of Vodafone Company decided to sell the shares. BP overtakes Vodafone amid continued telecoms weakness (www.independent.co.uk). Vodafone got negative return on assets (ROA) underperform the main competitors like BT Group, ATT and others. The other weakness is Vodafone has about 80% business generate in Europe. Due to these weaknesses Vodafone sometimes face problems to maintain the company standards. Opportunities Vodafone has so many opportunities to get benefit of it. Vodafone has expanding network with better services this made Vodafone to create opportunities for customers as well as Vodafone itself. With the passage of time climate is changing also Vodafone is working to tackle this problem with the facility of video and teleconferencing and thorough the other energy efficient machines. The Vodafone policy is full of opportunities for customers and company itself. Threats As Vodafone is dominating in the world of communication, so the competitors are the main threats for Vodafone. In start of Vodafone life, there werent so many competitors of Vodafone but gradually so many companies come to exist and started the war in the field of telecommunication. As it is expanding network, every day new customers are joining Vodafone, it could create problem in network. So Vodafone need to update their boosters or all other technologies which could lead to calling and data transferring problems. Along with this, as other competitor companies are introducing new services, same Vodafone need to introduce such facilities/services which could keep customers in touch with Vodafone. Level of Management Information System There are four level of management, each level supporting different kind of decision process. It works from top to bottom, as top level management which is strategic level makes decision then it ends with the bottom which is Operational level. These four are defined below; Strategic level: This specific level of management is for seniors like, CEO, VIP, and Manger. This type of management usually makes long term decisions like 3 to 10 years. Recommendation: Sales and Marketing IS, Manufacturing IS, H R Information system, And Finance and accounting IS. Management level / Tactical level: This management level is usually resource allocation decision level. In this management level managers utilise and allocate time, raw material, machinery, funds etc and this is usually for 1 to 3 years. Recommendation: Sales and Marketing IS, Manufacturing IS, H R Information system, And Finance and accounting IS. Knowledge level: The knowledge level is a additional level of management in which knowledge and data workers work. This level is all about the knowledge of the specific project. Recommendation: Sales and Marketing IS, Manufacturing IS, H R Information system, And Finance and accounting IS. Operational level: In this bottom part of the management level, managers work day to day to complete the task. Normally in this level, manager makes decisions less than one year. Recommendation: Sales and marketing IS, Manufacturing IS, Human Resource IS, and Finance and Accounting IS. TPS OAS KW MIS DSS ESS Operational Level Knowledge Level Management Level Strategic Level Diagram: Types of IS and level of working. Information Systems An information system can be defined technically as a set of interrelated components that collect process, store and distributed information to support decision making and control in an organization (Laudon Laudon, 2009). With the help of information system a project could lead to a successful project and can complete on time. Information system provides fast and accurate transaction along with this it provides support for decision making. The information system is the weapon against competitor companies. There are some major information systems which work in each management levels are below. ESS (Executive support system) work in strategic level. DSS (Decision support system) work in management level. MIS (Management information system) work in management level. KWS (Knowledge working system) work in knowledge level. OAS (office automation system) work in operational level. TPS (Transaction processing system) work in operational level. ESS (Executive support system) ESS is designed to draw summarized information from MIS and DSS and present graphs and data from many sources through an interface that is easy for senior managers (Laudon Laudon, 2009). This is top management level and top people of management deal in this level. The chief executive of Vodafone makes final and basic decisions, and all departments head collect the information (data) and present to him for his decision to go throw. The ESS information system manage all the activities happening within the company like sales, purchase, cost etc which helps chief executive to make decisions and start new plans. DSS (Decision support system) The DSS helps to navigate the company into right path, because if company is getting loss from present services or technology then it indicate the down turn of the company. With the help of DSS Vodafone sometimes change the price plans and also other changing occurs which are effect for company. The DSS of Vodafone can usually use information from other information systems but they need to get informed from outsource to come up with it. MIS (Management information system) Middle management needs system to help with monitoring, controlling, decision making and administer activity and to work with this, the systems which are use called MIS (Laudon Laudon, 2009). This information system basically helps to monitoring the activities happening within the company. With the help of this information system managers can check any transaction from thousand of transaction. Managers often need to see, what is going on with the company during it is working to know that, is company is doing fine or not, and MIS helps to do that. This system also provide required reports weekly, monthly or yearly, which helps manager to make decision. KWS (Knowledge working system) Knowledge work system or knowledge based information system that support the creation, organization and dissemination of business to employee and mangers throughout a company (OBrien Maracas, 2008). This information system helps the organization to find the new ways to reach the success. In Vodafone KWS use to find what new price plans will be appreciable by customers and also how to improve services. OAS (office automation system) The OAS usually use in employees data and for office work. As it is mentioned above that OAS is use in operational level. This information system manages all the office work of Vodafone like non financial asset, share based payment, pension etc. TPS (Transaction processing system) TPS help the operational managers to keep track of the elementary activities and transaction of the organization, such as sales, receipt, cash deposit, payroll, credit decision and the flow of materials in a factory (Laudon Laudon, 2009). In this system Vodafone can interact with the customers on daily basis. The information system helps Vodafone to deal with the all sort of enquires. Ethical Issues The use of Information system could be very risky for an organization. As it is very necessary for an organization to use information system to boost the performance of the work in better and convenient way meanwhile it could be very risky and can lead to disruption. So a lot of ethical issues need to keep in mind when implement information system. For example, if wrong information of data is entered then output also will be wrong this could lead to wrong decision making which is very harmful for company. It is very important to focus on ethical issue, if there is problem in OAS that wrong information is entered in the database of Vodafone then it will store wrong information in the system, it will produce wrong result. Same as if there is problem in TPS (Transaction Processing system) that transaction is made wrong while customer is paying bill or when Vodafone is topping up the account of the customers this could create problem for both customers and the company. Some ethical issue s of Vodafone are below; Privacy Protection: company need to focus on privacy of the company and its business. It needs to ensure that all transaction, made exactly and correctly. Along with this Vodafone needs to protect transaction occurred, that other cant retrieve it. Accuracy of Information: In process of data storage and all other inputs Vodafone needs to be careful of the authenticity of the stored information. Sometimes companies are expecting are something but they get something else at the time of result. Right of Information: Every mangers needs to know his responsibilities that he can maintain structure of the company. Security: As much the system is secure company will be safe from threats and misuse. Lack of knowledge: Staff must be trained to do the job and satisfy the customer in the criteria of information system. Conclusion: All organizations need to use information system to boost the performance and drive through the success. Information system helps organization to sort out, about all kind of problems and become profitable. As Vodafone is a communication services provider, so to come up with all necessities of this modern life and to compete with market, Vodafone needs to use specific information systems. There are so many companies in market competing with Vodafone, but due to choosing right and efficient information system, Vodafone is at the top.