Tuesday, December 31, 2019

An Overview of the Declaration of Pillnitz

The Declaration of Pillnitz was a statement issued by the rulers of Austria and Prussia in 1792 to try and both support the French monarchy and forestall a European war as a result of the French Revolution. It actually had the opposite effect and goes down in history as a terrible misjudgment. The Meeting of Former Rivals In 1789, the French Revolution had seen King Louis XVI of France lose control of an Estates General and a new citizen government form in France. This didnt only anger the French king, but most of Europe, who were monarchies less than pleased about citizens organizing. As the revolution became more extreme in France, the king and queen became practical prisoners of the government, and calls to execute them grew. Concerned about both the welfare of his sister Marie Antoinette and the status of brother in law King Louis XVI of France, Emperor Leopold of Austria met with King Frederick William of Prussia at Pillnitz in Saxony. The plan was to discuss what to do about the way the French Revolution was undermining royalty and threatening family. There was a strong camp of opinion in western Europe, led by members of the French aristocracy who had fled the revolutionary government, for armed intervention aimed at restoring the full powers of the French king and the whole of the ‘old r egime’. Leopold, for his part, was a pragmatic and enlightened monarch who was attempting to balance his own problem-riven empire. He had followed events in France but was afraid intervention would threaten his sister and brother in law, not help them (he was completely right). However, when he thought they had escaped he rashly offered all his resources to aid them. By the time of Pillnitz, he knew the French royals were effectively prisoners in France. The Aims of the Declaration of Pillnitz Austria and Prussia were not natural allies given recent European history, but at Pillnitz they reached an agreement and put out a declaration. This was couched in the diplomatic language of the day, and had a double meaning: taken at face value it issued a rebuke to the revolutionary government, but in practice was meant to produce a limitation on calls for war, restrict à ©migrà © princes and support the royal party in France. While it stated that the fate of the French Royals was of â€Å"common interest† to Europe’s other leaders, and while it urged France to restore them and made threats if harm came to them, the subtext was in the section saying Europe would only take military action with the agreement of all the major powers. As everybody knew Britain would have nothing to do with such a war at that point, Austria and Prussia were, in practice, not tied to any action. It sounded tough but promised nothing of substance. It was a piece of clever wordplay. It was a total failure. The Reality of the Declaration of Pillnitz The Declaration of Pillnitz was thus designed to assist the pro-royal faction in the revolutionary government against the republicans rather than threaten a war. Unfortunately for the state of peace in Europe, the revolutionary government in France had developed a culture that did not recognize subtext: they spoke in moral absolutes, believed that oratory was a pure form of communication and that cleverly written text was disingenuous. Thus the revolutionary government, especially the republicans agitating against the king, were able to take the Declaration at face value and portray it as, not just a threat, but a call to arms. To many scared Frenchmen, and to many agitating politicians, Pillnitz was a sign of invasion and contributed to France engaging in a pre-emptive declaration of war and the mirage of a crusade to spread liberty. The French Revolutionary Wars and Napoleonic Wars would follow, and both Louis and Marie would be executed by a regime made even more extreme by Pillni tz.

Monday, December 23, 2019

Essay on Frankenstein as Gothic Literature - 3563 Words

In what ways can Mary Shelleys Frankenstein Be considered as a Gothic novel? Can Gothic literature still appeal to us today? Gothic Literature was most popular from about 1764 until 1832, a period of nearly seventy years. At this time there were many successful and famous authors who wrote books which contained a somewhat gothic theme. These include the famous Brontà « Sisters with the novels Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre, both of which can be found on many modern bookshelves of today. As well as the famous sisters, well know authors, of the time, also included Ann Radcliffe with her Mysteries of Udolpho and Horace Walpoles The Castle of Otranto. Amongst the most famous Gothic writers Mary Shelley can also be found†¦show more content†¦This is shown through the treatment of a certain character within the book. When deciding whether Shelleys Frankenstein can be considered a Gothic novel we have to take into account each aspect of a typical Gothic novel and compare it with Shelleys work. In a Gothic novel the setting in which the story has been told usually consists of a grand castle, (or similar) which may be isolated or at least very mysterious. The setting may seem dark and eerie and certainly not familiar. It may also be described as being majestic and almost medieval in a way. In Frankenstein the tale is not set in one lone place but in many different and sometimes peculiar settings. For example, when Victor Frankenstein starts work on his monster he is said to be working in: a solitary chamber, or rather cell, at the top of the house, and separated from all other apartments by a gallery and staircase This produces an image of a hideous workshop in which Victor is creating another human being of a very different kind. The fact that is has been called a cell makes it enclosed and almost hellish because one would associate a cell with a prison in which you would be locked and confined. As well as this, later on in the novel, when Victor travels with Henry Clerval back to England, the place in which they visit is described as being a: majestic assemblageShow MoreRelatedFrankenstein Gothic Literature Essay1378 Words   |  6 PagesThe novel Frankenstein falls under two different genres of literature: Gothic novel and Science fiction; however, some people consider it a Romance novel or Horror fiction. Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein, was 18 years old when she wrote the book in 1816. The book was first published in 1818 and revised in 1831. Mary Shelley was born in 1797. She was the second daughter of a feminist philosopher, educator, and writer Mary Wollstonecraft; but the first child of the philosopher, novelist, andRead More To what extent is Frankenstein typical of gothic literature?1272 Words   |  6 PagesTo what extent is Frankenstein typical of gothic literature? In you answer make close references to its context and Mary Shellys use of language. This essay will assess how typical of the gothic genre writings is Mary Shellys Frankenstein. The novel was written at a time when electricity was first discovered and Galvanism was being explored, mainly for medical reasons. People at this time were ignorant and sceptical of medicine and so most people would have been disgusted by these studiesRead MoreFrankenstein And The Picture Of Dorian Gray As British Gothic Literature1837 Words   |  8 PagesKearney English 4 AP 27 May 2015 Frankenstein and The Picture of Dorian Gray as British Gothic Literature â€Å"There is something at work in my soul, which I do not understand.† This quote from Mary Shelley s classic gothic novel Frankenstein is very representative of the functional importance of gothic literature to humanity. Gothic literature can be viewed as the dark side of the human soul, as good usually triumphs over evil in storytelling; gothic literature is the release of all the darknessRead MoreAnalysis Of Frankenstein Dark Elements 1117 Words   |  5 Pageseighteenth century, gothic literature rapidly expanded to become a major genre of study. There are many key elements that make a piece of literature gothic, many of these elements are found in Frankenstein. Three of the main elements that categorize gothic literature are extreme landscapes, supernatural manifestations, and intense emotions; these three elements can also be found in Frankenstein. One common element of gothic literature includes extreme landscapes. Gothic literature uses this key elementRead MoreMary Shelleys Frankenstein: A Gothic Novel1595 Words   |  7 PagesMary Shelly’s Frankenstein is one of the greatest Gothic novels to come out during the Romantic Period. Frankenstein is a prime example of what a Gothic novel should present to its reader through the genre’s twisted themes. Even though it was written in the Romantic period, Mary Shelley still wrote Frankenstein to be a Gothic work of literature. Many characteristics of Gothic novel can be seen within this novel. Mary Shelley’s outstanding novel Frankenstein is a prime example of a Gothic novel becauseRead MoreGothic Literature : A Dark Atmosphere967 Words   |  4 PagesSchroder English IV Honors 8 December 2016 Gothic Literature Gothic literature has been popular since the 19th century and has given readers the opportunity to look at romantic movement that focuses on a darker horror like imagination. Some of these involve a combination of extreme landscapes, icy wastes, and extreme weather, horrifying events or the threat of such happenings, as well as supernatural manifestations, and presenting evil. Gothic literature gives us a way of looking more depth intoRead MoreGothic Literature : The Gothic Genre1130 Words   |  5 PagesKatelyn Tiamson English Honors IV Mrs. Schroder 8 December 2016 Frankenstein Gothic literature is a style of writing that contains elements of both horror and romance. This genre allows readers to experience a mix of horror and romance intertwined. Within the gothic genre there are elements of supernatural events, beings, and gloomy day settings. This style of writing became popular in the late 18th century and early 19 century. Many give credit to it’s uprising to author Horace Walpole, who wroteRead MoreAaron Fyler. Mrs.Schroder. English Iv. 5 December 2016.1174 Words   |  5 PagesSchroder English IV 5 December 2016 Gothic Influences within Frankenstein Gothic has its origins from the Germanic tribes who invaded and plundered Rome and other European nations during the third, fourth, and fifth centuries. The word Gothic became connected to words like barbaric and savage and was integrated into the Middle ages due to the time period itself being referred to as unenlightened and superstitious (Architecture). Its first entrance into literature occurred in Horace Walpole’s novelRead MoreFrankenstein as a Gothic Novel Essay1332 Words   |  6 Pagesthemes: these are elements of a Gothic novel. Though Mary Shelleys Frankenstein, written in the early 19th century, certainly contains many components of a Gothic novel, can it be correctly grouped under that genre? A definition of a Gothic novel; according to Tracy, is a description of a fallen world. We experience this fallen world though the aspects of a novel: plot, setting, characterization, and theme (De Vore, Domenic, Kwan and Reidy). As well, early Gothic novels have characterized themselvesRead MoreCritical Analysis of Mary Shelleys Frankenstein974 Words   |  4 PagesThe essay discussed in this document is Said I. Abdelwaheds The Gothic, Frankenstein and the Romanics, which was published in 1997 in An-Najaj N. J. Res. The author is the assistant professor of English literature at Gazas Al-Azhar University. These credentials are fairly impressive considering the international reputation of the university the author was working at during the time of publication. Additionally, the authors status as an assistant professor helps to imbue this work with a degree

Sunday, December 15, 2019

Adam Smith Questions Free Essays

Which of he following does Adam Smith advocate? †¢The pursuit of self-interest ? According to Adam Smith in a ‘laissez faire’ economy each member will try to pursue and maximize his own self-interest †¢Import of restrictions to protect the domestic market ? Adam Smith believes in a free market economy and would disapprove of restrictions, even in the name of protection. †¢Private armies to protect the domestic market ? /? Adam Smith advocates the protection of the domestic market through an army, though I doubt he mean’s a private army. I believe he only supports an army that is owned and controlled by the public/the citizens. We will write a custom essay sample on Adam Smith: Questions or any similar topic only for you Order Now †¢A legal system to safeguard internal peace and justice ? Adam Smith supports the ‘laissez faire’ system which states that the government or state should interfere as little as possible in the trading activities between people, as that would only harm trade. †¢Government subsidies for the transport of infrastructure ? Adam Smith see’s this as another duty of the government to grant subsidies for the sake of transport and infrastructure. 2. What, according to Adam Smith, is the driving force of the economy? Adam Smith defined the factors of production as land, labor and capital. He also said that the economy was made up of individual transactions, and that buyers and sellers were looking out for their own self-interest, which was the driving force of every economy. Smith posed the idea of competition as well, and the â€Å"Invisible Hand† theory which dealt with competition, self-interest and protecting the consumer from government intervention. 3. Show how individuals who pursue self-interest may†¦ a)contribute to general economic prosperity(success); How to cite Adam Smith: Questions, Papers

Saturday, December 7, 2019

Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting

Question: Discuss about the Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting. Answer: Introduction and Background Diageo is a maker of drinks which range from liquor to wines. Diageo Plc conveys and passes on refreshment alcohol with spirits and wine brands. The company has manufactured beverages for a very long time. Diageo was set up in December 1997 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. In this report we are going to analyse the different aspects of the companys financial reports of 2016(Business process management II: Diageo case study, 2006). Diageo operates in 21 countries in Afria, North America, Europe among other continents. The company has some highlights as it has scooped some of the worlds most coveted awards.Diageo, is the world's leading premium drinks company Distilled and World Class beverages, it was honoured in one of the most important events in the world of mixology, it scooped the "Coaster Awards 2015" national best in the world of mixology. This indicates that the company offers quality service and excellence in the world (An improved conceptual framework for financial reporting, 2008). In all, ten have been awarded this award to 400 local opting Spain. The winners were chosen thanks to its vocation to offer quality service, work and excellence in the world of mixology. In the last five years the company has doubled its business division of luxury brands and has managed to lead most markets with growth that in some cases reach up to 15% . World Class highlights indicates the strong commitment that keeps Diageo the leader in the hospitality industry which it has achieved through common effort and professionalism (Chavas, 2004). Conceptual framework The Framework Accounting is the set of fundamentals, principles and basic concepts whose fulfillment leads in a logical deductive process to the recognition and measurement of items of the financial statements, and is conceived in the same way for all companies, regardless its size, thus exhibiting an identical structure and a very similar to that provided by the General Accounting Plan content (Gill, Chatton and Osgood, 2009). Small and medium-sized enterprises should formulate the balance sheet, income statement, statement of changes in equity and memory, which are documents that are part of its annual accounts.With the aim of simplifying the accounting obligations of companies that do not exceed the required size to force to submit its annual audited accounts, does not require the presentation of these companies flow statement cash(Greuning,ScottTerblanche,2011).. This state may be submitted voluntarily, in which case they must be prepared in accordance with the provisions of the General Accounting Plan. In exceptional cases where compliance was incompatible with the true and fair view such application shall be deemed inadmissible (Gill, Chatton and Osgood, 2009). It will be encouraged in the fact that memory and its influence on equity will be explained, financial position and results of the company. The balance sheet , profits statement , statement of changes in equity , the cashflow statement ( not ma ndatory for organizations that may build balance , statement of changes in equity as well as abbreviated memory ) as well as the memory section of the financial records of an organization(Business process management II: Diageo case study, 2006). Past financial statements needs to be easy to understand and also helpful for people who make use of them to come up with economic decisions ; the General Accounting Strategy aims that the info found in the annual accounts display reasonably the net worth , financial position as well as end results of the organization. The systematic as well as normal use of the requirements , process as well as conditions of this PGC can make the annual financial records give a true picture of the equity , financial position as well as outcomes of the organization . In accounting procedures will address its economic reality rather than just their legal form(Greuning,ScottTerblanche,2011). Requirements information to include in the annual accounts The information is true when the financial statements are free of errors and is neutral, ie it is free of bias, which allows users trust that is the true picture of what it purports to represent. Reliability derives integrity, which is reached when the financial information contienetodos data that can influence decision-making, without any omission (Hague, 2004). Similarly the annual accounts are made in a comparable manner in order to assess the situation and profitability compared with previous periods or companies of similar characteristics. Likewise, the information provided should be as clear as possible in order to make more effective decision-making within companies. The accounting principles that governed the General Accounting Plan are as follow. Company operation. Shall be deemed to company management will continue in the foreseeable future, so queno is intended to determine the value of equity, nor the resulting amount in the event of liquidation (HillMcDonnell,2016) . Accrual. The effects of transactions or economic events are recorded when they occur, are charged to exercise to which the annual accounts relate, expenses and revenues affecting the same, regardless of the date of payment or collection (Hague, 2004). Uniformity. The criteria adopted by Diageo and were chosen to generate the annual accounts have to keep in time and applied uniformly (Lehman et al., 2005). When these assumptions may be changed to alter the criteria adopted, this fact is to happen in the memory necessary to inform the impact that quantitative and qualitative variation has on the annual accounts(Gray and Malone, 2008)... This principle is based on estimates and assessments should be handled with caution in conditions of uncertainty. Prudence does not justify the valuation of the assets does not meet the faithful image that must reflect the annual accounts (Harvard business review on corporate governance, n.d.). Only benefits achieved to date are accounted year end. On the contrary, they should take into account all the risks. No compensation. Can not offset the asset and liabilities or expenses and income, and valued separately the integral elements of the annual accounts, unless some rule otherwise(Chand and Patel, 2011). Relative importance. Possible non-application of certain accounting principles and criteria when determining the importance in quantitative or qualitative terms of the variation that such fact produces is barely significant and therefore does not alter the expression of the true picture. Items or amounts whose relative importance is low may appear grouped with others of similar nature or function (Lehman et al., 2005). In case of conflict between principles you should prevaleces the most conducive to the financial statements give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and results of the company. Relevancy and faithful representation in financial statements Accoording to the 2016 Diageo financial statements, the company takeabout the taxationsince they are a multinational company. The companys net profit dropped by 4.4% from the year 2015 to 2016 (refer to page 25 of the financial statement). At the end of year 2016, the reported tax rate was 17.4% this is an increase compard to 15.7% in june 2015. From the annual rep[ort it is clear that Diageo should report on taxes in a more comprehensive manner. Thwe inestors and stakeholders need to know how exactly the taxation is handled in various countries that the company is operating in (Mallin, 2004). This is useful because it enables better decisions to be made. Although the company does not have any accounting scandal and the end of year statements are formulated according to accounting framework and FASB, it is the responsibility of the management to ensure that the information presented in the financial statements is comprehensive and understandable for the stakeholders (Mirza, Holt and Orrell, 2006). International Accounting Standards dictates on the methodology for presentation of financial statements (Gray and Malone, 2008). Additionally, Statements of financial positions which includes balance sheet and income statements, statement of changes in equity, cash flow statements, accounting policies and comparative information. Figure 1: Diageo Market performance Corporate governance Just like a number of other areas of the corporate environment , corporate governance measures must not comply with a single design . On the other hand , experience demonstrates that the methods to apply and also achieve better governance in the organization , they vary significantly in each and every state and each organization , even within the similar industry (Mirza, Holt and Orrell, 2006). Likewise , the factors that steer people who run businesses to put into practice corporate governance procedures are diverse . Any of these might be simply because the survival of the organization is set , wherein case it is very important put into practice immediately(Gray and Malone, 2008). . One other reason could be that shareholders believe of the benefits as well as benefits that such procedures signify the outcomes of the organization as well as 3rd parties involved , both internally ( stakeholders , staff ) as well as externally ( customers , suppliers ) . In any event , will probably be the needs and the degree of dedication the key elements to accelerate the strategy of implementing these types of practices . The reason behind corporate governance would be to Access to capital or decrease its cost ,Face as well as react to external industry pressures .Balancing the needs , on numerous instances , diverging stakeholders . Guarantee the sustainability of the organization and Attain better operating results . The adoption of governance practices is easy when shareholders and persons responsible for their implementation are committed to their task, convinced of the value of change and motivated to achieve a common vision(HillMcDonnell,2016)s. The main objective of corporate governance is the establishment of agreements to avoid conflicts between current and future shareholders, ensuring that business information is presented in a transparent, reliable and timely manner, in addition to providing legal certainty and security to shareholders in their economic rights and its transmission, which is necessary to:Design mechanisms to ensure the efficient operation of the Shareholders' Meetings,Design and implement a Board of Directors that generates value,Design and implementation of the Committees that provide certainty to shareholders about the reliability of information on the operations of the Company,Agreements and pacts succession process management and management positions (Zuber-Skerritt, 2012).Design mechanisms to ensure that the effects of the shareholding structure of the company are equitable for all shareholders (Rights of minorities).Designing a dividend policy that provides certainty to shareholders and creditors even to contingencies like death and safeguard the operation of the Company (Sun, Stewart and Pollard, 2010). Diageo has done CSR in various divisions environmental social responsibility: the collective consciousness to improve the world The environment has become one of the points of social responsibility more care by businesses. And it is that if we take care of our planet, the consequences can be devastating(Chand and Patel, 2011).. It is therefore essential raise awareness and educate those around us of the importance of small gestures, those who though small, have a great impact. At our fingertips it is to apply and teach the next generation to recycle, use less paper, to bring cloth bags to the supermarket ... because our example is undoubtedly the best teaching.And if these good practices moved to the business sector, we find environmental policies social responsibility, which are manual action to protect the planet (Sun, Stewart and Pollard, 2010). Sustainable development Environmental social responsibility is the commitment to acquire companies to preserve and protect the environment. The objective is to evaluate all the natural resources that the company uses to create its products or services, such as water, electricity or raw materials used for packaging. In fact, the interest of companies for the environment is closely related to the demands of consumers (Zuber-Skerritt, 2012). It is increasingly common that your customers are people with "environmental awareness", ie, they have a lifestyle in which care about the environment and make their everyday purchases require products or services that require it coupled to their way of thinking and living. Diageo put up green marketing strategies in two different ways. One focuses on commercial and business area and refers to the process of creating products. The aim is to implement appropriate measures to prevent damage to the environment and market a product or a final service that does not believe any pollution, that does not generate waste and optimizing resources has been created. The other green marketing strategy focuses on the social area, that is, initiatives to raise awareness promoted internal staff and external customers of the need to protect and care for the environment.Diageo used more than 46 million dollars towards environmental sustainabe solutions in the last financial year. This shows that the company has done a lot in giving back to the community and changing the environment. So, to get a more sustainable world a lot is needed. Each to the extent of our possibilities and our responsibility, starting with our daily lives and spreading respect for the environment. And always with a purpose and a common goal: to work to leave a green and healthy planet to those who come after(Chand and Patel, 2011).. It is defined as the responsiveness that the company against the effects of their actions on the different groups with which it relates. Companies are socially responsible when they develop activities that meet the needs of its employees, society and those who benefit directly from its business; likewise for the care and preservation of the environment performing (Taparia, 2004). It is defined as the responsiveness that has government organizations against the effects of their actions on the different groups with which it relates. It is important to consider that to implement a policy represents for the company internally, the ideal culture, based on values, respect for society and efficiency for Diageo (Weygandt, Kimmel and Kieso, 2009). Conclusion Diageo is one of the biggest companies dealing with alcoholic beverages in the world. With this it has very many responsibilities to give back to the society. Moreover, it has been mandated to keep clean books of accounts in accordance with IAS and IFRS standards for accounting. It provides for management commentaries and the chairmans report in reporting of financial standards (Chand and Patel, 2011). References An improved conceptual framework for financial reporting. (2008). London, U.K.: International Accounting Standards Board. Business process management II: Diageo case study. (2006). Houston: American Productivity Quality Center (APQC). Chand, P. and Patel, C. (2011). Achieving global convergence of financial reporting standards. Bingley, U.K.: Emerald. Chavas, J. (2004). Risk analysis in theory and practice. Amsterdam: Elsevier Butterworth-Heinimann. Gill, J., Chatton, M. and Osgood, W. (2009). Understanding financial statements. [Rochester, NY]: Axzo Press. Greuning, H., Scott, D. and Terblanche, S. (2011). International financial reporting standards. Washington, D.C.: World Bank. Hague, I. (2004). Applying international financial reporting standards. London: LexisNexis. Harvard business review on corporate governance. (n.d.). . Hill, C. and McDonnell, B. (2016). Economics of corporate law. Cheltenham, UK: Edward Elgar Publishing Limited. Lehman, C., Tinker, T., Merino, B. and Neimark, M. (2005). Corporate governance. Amsterdam: Elsevier JAI. Mallin, C. (2004). Corporate governance. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Mirza, A., Holt, G. and Orrell, M. (2006). Wiley IFRS. Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley. Sun, W., Stewart, J. and Pollard, D. (2010). Reframing corporate social responsibility. Bingley, U.K.: Emerald. Taparia, J. (2004). Understanding financial statements. Oak Park, IL: Marion Street Press. Weygandt, J., Kimmel, P. and Kieso, D. (2009). Accounting principles. New York: Wiley. Zuber-Skerritt, O. (2012). Action research for sustainable development in a turbulent world. Bingley [England]: Emerald Group Pub.

Monday, November 25, 2019

Applications of AI Technology essays

Applications of AI Technology essays AI is one of the most rapidly expanding technology fields, and has applications in almost every other discipline in the world. AI technology, while new, is so pervasive that it has already become a critically important component in many other existing technologies. In this report, the use of AI will be discussed in the following fields: consumer electronics and home entertainment, the military, business, medicine, and exploration. AI in Consumer Electronics and Home Entertainment Although many people do not realize it, advanced AI exists all around us, and is all the time increasing its presence in our homes. In fact, AI play's a large role in many of the things that we use and interact with everyday, in a variety of ways both prominent and subtle. The most prominent area where AI is demonstrated to us at is home. While most people would automatically assume that this statement refers to something computer related, or something very technical and important, it is in fact through our toys that we see AI interact with us everyday. Although this notion may seem a bit ridiculous, it is in fact very much the truth. Video games and high tech toys draw us to them because they offer a level of interaction that other toys cannot match. It is to these objects that we go when we want to get away from the boring monotonous work a day world that our society has devolved (yes, devolved) into. Since we play with toys in order to put us in a better mood, it is therefore important that these toys and games are able to understand what we are doing and adapt to fit our needs. When someone boots up a video game, they do not wish to play with something that doesn't play back. What kind of video game would have only the player standing around not i nteracting with anything? When a child comes home from school and begins playing with their newest doll or action figure, it is much more fun to play with it when it uses its sensors to track and fire pla...

Friday, November 22, 2019

Letter from a Birmingham Jail Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 4

Letter from a Birmingham Jail - Essay Example He also supports his argument morally and politically. Morally, he believes that just laws are God’s laws while unjust laws ruin God’s law. Politically, he believes that just laws are not applied to everyone while unjust laws are applied which is unfair. In both arguments, King defined segregation as an unjust law. â€Å"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.† This is how King expresses his anger and disappointment. He wanted the Black Americans to stand up for their rights, to speak for their rights, equality, and harsh treatment. He criticizes the perception White people have about his thoughts and actions, how his peaceful non-violent movement becomes a violent movement according to them. King seems to throw light on the fact that most of the times the silence of good people leads to one’s repenting in future because if one might not speak for his/her own rights then no one is going to notice their grief and their emotions, He says ‘We will have to repent in this generation not merely for the hateful words and actions of the bad people but for the appalling silence of the good people†. This quote also seems to highlight the present conditions of King’s times when he got arrested for his parade without a permit during his non- violent protests against ‘unjust’ laws. He seems to be in favor of standing up for oneself and speaking for one’s rights. The quote also highlights the fact that if a person is silent and bears every ‘unjust’ act then it is the fault of the silence of those people that they allow such people to do injustice to them.

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Supply Chain Managmet Case Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Supply Chain Managmet Case Study - Essay Example and Jill, a representative of Success Inc. Company. Mike Vanne’s company was a supplier to Success Inc. Time context Based on the conversation, Mike Vanne’s company started experiencing management problems from 1998 soon after its establishment. In 1999, the company also changed its fiscal year. This change in fiscal years twice in a row is an indication of short sighted and indecisive leadership. Viewpoint Mike Vanne’s viewpoint is that the company is fast growing. He defends this viewpoint with the fact that they made eleven acquisitions in a time span of two years. He links the company’s prosperity with the acquisitions. In addition to this, Mr. Vanne believes his company is in good shape since he has good employees. However, Jill is of a different viewpoint. She questions the nature of leadership in Mr. Vanne’s company. This indicates that she believes the company’s leadership is the cause of the potential problems. Central problem The ce ntral problem in this case is poor leadership. Mr. Mike Vanne has little knowledge of the business yet he is the owner. In addition to this, he is complacent in taking radical steps to ensure the company does not get under problems in the future. He chooses to ignore the fact that his company has been faced with several lawsuits. As if that is not enough, he brushes off the idea as bad publicity of the company. Out of a series of ten meetings, Ari Villa happens to have attended one or two board meetings yet he is the chairman to the board. Mike Vanne justifies Villa’s actions in proposing that villa is a busy man. Another leader, Sandra Chia fails to attend a meeting with one of their business associates yet she is the Chief financial Officer to the company. As a CFO, it is important for her to attend meetings concerning their business associates since the impression she gives could either work for or against the company. From these illustrations, one concludes that the leade rship in X Inc. is in shambles. The leaders are allowed to run the company as they wish and are not accountable to anyone. According to Jones (p.1), lack of collaboration amongst the company leadership is one of the signs of a dysfunctional leadership. Statement Objectives Statement objectives form the backbone of any business. They relate what the business plans to achieve (Complete Business start up p.1). X Inc.’s objectives are as follows: To provide quality service in the technologic business field. To ensure continuous growth of the business through establishing a wider market base and capturing profitable business opportunities. To create a strong leadership team that will channel the company towards growth. Areas of Consideration In solving the problem at hand, a SWOT analysis will reveal the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of X inc. business venture. SWOT analysis analyses external and internal factors that are key to the attainment of a companyâ€⠄¢s objectives (Hill & Westbrook pp.12) External Environment The external environment assesses threats and opportunities. One takes into consideration macroeconomic matters, technological advancement, changes in the market, competition and legislation. In looking at X Inc., it has several opportunities. X Inc., is one of the leading technological companies. This opportunity helps them to wade off unnecessary competition. In addition to that, its ability to form mergers and acquisitions opens it up to a larger

Monday, November 18, 2019

Pollutions and External Costs Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Pollutions and External Costs - Case Study Example The externality can be considered as one of the most important concepts which can be perceived on the basis of different aspects. The externality can refer to the cost of the factors that can affect business transactions mainly the group that used the factor to be able to be related to a group. Thus, the externalities then can be perceived in cases wherein the group being supplied gains profit (Gibson, 1996). Due to the fact that every factor and component of the environment even the economic aspect can be considered to have a price. For that matter, the sale of the products being produced can be of great effect to the supplier company, although it can be considered as an indirect effect. In the study of the effects of externality, it is important to determine that the effects of the said concept can either be positive or negative (Gibson, 1996; Hussen, 2000). A negative externality can be perceived when the side of the production or consumption of a particular product. One of the most significant examples of a negative externality in consumption is pollution. In such case then, externalities can be considered as an effect of the failure of the 3rd group. On the other hand, externality can also be positive wherein indirect actions in the society can improve the chance for good transactions. An example is the development of different types of remedies and medication (Gibson, 1996; Hussen, 2000). The presence of externalities can be questioned in terms of efficiency. This can be attributed to the fact that a system targets the efficient use of every part and every material. Due to the fact that externalities are based on the indirect effects of different factor, a sign of being weak, the study of the implications of externalities is a vital issue (Gibson, 1996; Hussen, 2000).

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence Artificial Intelligence: Artificial Intelligence began in the 1960s, the first attempts were game playing (checkers), theory proving a few simple theories and general problem solving. General problem solving was much more difficult than originally anticipated. Researchers were unable to tackle problems routinely handled by human experts. Artificial Intelligence can be defined in many ways as it depends from which point of view you look at it from. From the intelligence point of view artificial intelligence is to make machines intelligent thus making them act as we people would act. However artificial intelligence from a research perspective is how to make machines do things people are currently doing better in other words making machines do what we humans can do. Now from a business point of view artificial intelligence is a combination of powerful tools, and methods for using those tools to solve business problems. As for the programming point of view artificial intelligence is the study of symbolic programming, search and problem solving. Expert Systems: Expert systems are defined on bases functional and structural. Expert systems from a functional perspective are defined based on what the system does rather than how it does it. A computer program that behaves like a human expert in some useful ways. (Winston Prendergast, 1984) Nevertheless we can define expert systems on the bases of their structure in many ways depending on which angle we look at it from Problem area â€Å"Solve problems efficiently and effectively in a narrow problem area. (Waterman, 1986) typically, pertains to problems that can be symbolically represented (Liebowitz, 1988) Problem difficulty apply expert knowledge to difficult real world problems (Waterman, 1986) solve problems that are difficult enough to require significant human expertise for their solution (Edward Feigenbaum in Harmon King, 1985) â€Å"Address problems normally thought to require human specialists for their solution (Michaelsen et al, 1985). Performance requirement the ability to perform at the level of an expert (Liebowitz, 1988) â€Å"Programs that mimic the advice-giving capabilities of human experts. (Brule, 1986, p.6) â€Å"Matches a competent level of human expertise in a particular field. (Bishop, 1986, p.38) â€Å"Can offer intelligent advice or make an intelligent decision about a processing function. (British Computer Societys Specialist Group in Forsyth, 1984, pp.9-10) â€Å"Allows a user to access this expertise in a way similar to that in which he might consult a human expert, with a similar result. (Edwards and Connell, 1989, p.3) Explain reasoning â€Å"The capability of the system, on demand, to justify its own line of reasoning in a manner directly intelligible to the enquirer. (British Computer Societys Specialist Group in Forsyth, 1984, p.9-10) incorporation of explanation processes (Liebowitz, 1988) Expert Systems from a structural perspective are defined on the bases of how the system functions. â€Å"Using the programming techniques of artificial intelligence, especially those techniques developed for problem solving (Dictionary of Computing, 1986) However we can define expert systems on the bases of their structure in many ways depending on which angle we look at it from Use AI techniques using the programming techniques of artificial intelligence, especially those techniques developed for problem solving (Dictionary of Computing, 1986) Knowledge component the embodiment within a computer of a knowledge-based component, from an expert skill (British Computer Societys Specialist Group in Forsyth, 1984) a computer based system in which representations of expertise are stored (Edwards and Connell, 1989) The knowledge of an expert system consists of facts and heuristics. The facts constitute a body of information that is widely shared, publicly available, and generally agreed upon by experts in the field. (Edward Feigenbaum in Harmon King, 1985) Expert systems are sophisticated computer programs that manipulate knowledge to solve problems (Waterman, 1986) Separate knowledge and control â€Å"Make domain knowledge explicit and separate from the rest of the system (Waterman, 1986). Use inference procedures an intelligent computer program that uses knowledge and inference procedures (Edward Feigenbaum in Harmon King, 1985) The style adopted to attain these characteristics is a rule-based programming style. (British Computer Societys Specialist Group in Forsyth, 1984) Exhibit intelligent behavior by skillful application of heuristics. (Waterman, 1986). The heuristics are mostly private, little rules of good judgment (rules of plausible reasoning, rules of good guessing) that characterize expert-level decision making in the field. (Edward Feigenbaum in Harmon King, 1985) incorporation of ways of handling uncertainty(Liebowitz, 1988) Model human expert â€Å"Can be thought of as a model of the expertise of the best practitioners of the field. (Edward Feigenbaum in Harmon King, 1985) representation of domain-specific knowledge in the manner in which the expert thinks (Liebowitz, 1988) â€Å"Involving the use of appropriate information acquired previously from human experts. (Dictionary of Computing, 1986) Components of an Expert System An expert system consists of 4 main components which are listed below: Knowledge base a representation of the expertise and is usually inputted in IF THEN rules, and are usually put into a database for easy access by the system. Working storage Data which is specific to a problem being solved by the expert system. Inference engine the code at the core of the system which derives recommendations from the knowledge base and problem-specific data in working storage. User interface the code that controls the dialog between the user and the system. People and they consist of: Domain experts the individual or individuals who currently are experts in solving the problems the system is intended to solve. Knowledge engineers the individuals who encode the experts knowledge in a declarative form that can be used by the expert system. Users the individuals who will be consulting with the system to get advice which would have been provided by the expert. Furthermore there are some other optional components that might be added to the system as sub systems and which try to make the expert system more efficient thus making it more powerful and they are. Explanation sub system is used to explain the logic or reason of recommending a solution. Justifier is another name of explanation sub system. Justifier also explains why a solution is recommended or not recommended. Knowledge refining sub system is used to refine the knowledge in the knowledgebase after working every time over a problem. It works exactly like human beings who analyze their actions and learn from their mistakes to perform better in the future. Programming Languages Used to Develop Expert Systems Here are some of the programming languages used to develop expert systems. 1. LISP, developed in the 1950s, is the early programming language strongly associated with AI. LISP is a functional programming language with procedural extensions. LISP (LISt Processor) was specifically designed for processing heterogeneous lists which is a list of symbols. Features of LISP that made it attractive to AI researchers included Run- time type checking. Higher order functions (functions that have other functions as parameters). Automatic memory management (garbage collection) and an interactive environment. 2. The second language strongly associated with AI is PROLOG. PROLOG was developed in the 1970s. PROLOG is based on first order logic. PROLOG is declarative in nature and has facilities for explicitly limiting the search space. 3. Object-oriented languages are a class of languages more recently used for AI programming. Important features of object-oriented languages include: concepts of objects and messages objects bundle data and methods for manipulating the data sender specifies what is to be done receiver decides how to do it inheritance (object hierarchy where objects inherit the attributes of the more general class of objects) Examples of object-oriented languages are Smalltalk, Objective C, C++. Object oriented extensions to LISP (CLOS Common LISP Object System) and PROLOG (LO Logic Objects) are also used. The Difference between these programming languages and procedural programming languages. According to an article in the Information and Software Technology journal by Alexander Chatzigeorgiou of the Department of Applied Informatics, at the University of Macedonia, the object-oriented approach is known to introduce a significant performance penalty compared to classical procedural programming. For instance, profiling results for embedded applications indicate that C++ programs, apart from being slower than their corresponding C versions, consume significantly more energy (mainly due to the increased instruction count, larger code size and increased number of accesses to the data memory for the object-oriented versions). Example of an Expert System One of the most recognized expert systems used today by the general public is the online doctor due to the fact that many people use it daily. In brief this expert system is used to diagnose people by asking them what the problem is and then suggesting the actions that they should take which sounds very similar to an expert system where the illness is the problem the recommended actions are the solutions. In this example the website that was studied is www.yourdiagnosis.com In this expert system there are main components of the expert system and they are: The people The people are separated into three categories and they are: The domain experts who are actually the doctors who provide the data for the system. The knowledge engineers are the engineers who enter this system in a rule based input for example giving multiple choice questions to diagnose a cold. Do you feel cold.[ ] Do you feel hot? [ ]. Do you feel normal? [ ] System engineer who is the person in charge assembling and managing the system. The user who is the person asking for the diagnoses. The user interface The user interface is the website used by the user to find the diagnoses. Example: The inherence engine The inherence engine which in this case is made by the engineer using a web based programming language like ASP or PHP in the website from the last example we see that the programming language used is ASP and we can see that from the address bar. http://www.yourdiagnosis.com/yourdiagnosis/Yourdiagnosis.ASP?WCI=WorldMapHTMWCE=ClickWCU The knowledge base The knowledge base in this case is where all the rules that the knowledge engineer inputted them in this case the engineer used Microsoft SQL SERVER 2008. The knowledge in this case is the medical knowledge given by the doctors. The working storage The working storage in this case is a storage area on the server where each users data is stored in a relational database The benefits of using artificial intelligence The main benefits of using artificial intelligence are: Provide answers for decisions, processes and tasks that are repetitive Hold huge amounts of information Minimize employee training costs Centralize the decision making process Make things more efficient by reducing the time needed to solve problems Combine various human expertises. Reduce the number of errors caused by humans. Provide strategic and comparative advantages that may create problems for competitors Look over transactions that human experts may not think of Even though the benefits of artificial intelligence is more than the above we find that the main advantage to using artificial intelligence is to maximize the efficiency of a business thus giving the business the edge it needs to over throw its competitors. Why Artificial intelligence is hard to include in information systems The difficulties in including artificial intelligence in information systems are due to many facts one of which is the expense. Furthermore there are multiple factors why its so difficult to include artificial intelligence in information systems from which is the human acceptance to Artificial intelligence especially in the older groups another factor is that domain experts will be threatened by the fact that they are giving their expertise to a company and the fear of being redundant. From the technical point of view the implementation of artificial intelligence is quite hard due to the if rule conversion of the expertise. And the integration with old systems will require an effort especially for established companies with legacy hardware and software. Which brings us to the expense part of the problem? There is no doubt that artificial intelligence is an expensive approach as it is time consuming as it requires a lot of time and human resources. Furthermore developing artificial intelligence relies heavily on having the correct expert information and having something wrong in the knowledge base might cause damages which will lead to costly error and problems. Reference Anonymous. Dictionary of Computing, 1986, New York: Oxford University Press. Bishop, Peter. Fifth Generation Computers Concepts, Implementations Uses, 1986, Chichester, England: Ellis Horwood Ltd. Brule, James F. Artificial Intelligence: Theory, Logic and Application, 1986, Blue Ridge Summit, PA: TAB Books. Edwards, Alex and Connell, N.A.D. Expert Systems in Accounting, 1989, Herfordshire, UK: Prentice Hall International (UK) Ltd. Forsyth, Richard, Expert Systems: Principles and Case Studies, 1984, London: Chapman and Hall Computing. Harmon, Paul and King, David. Expert Systems: Artificial Intelligence in Business. 1985, New York: Wiley. Liebowitz, Jay, Introduction to Expert Systems, 1988, Santa Cruz, CA: Mitchell Publishing, Inc. Michaelsen, Robert H.; Michie, Donald and Boulanger, Albert. The Technology of Expert Systems Byte; April 1985 Rich, Elaine and Knight, Kevin. Artificial Intelligence Second Edition. 1991, New York: McGraw-Hill. Waterman, Donald A. A Guide to Expert Systems, 1986, Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley. Winston, Patrick H. and Prendergast, Karen A. (Editors). The AI Business: Commercial Use of Artificial Intelligence, 1984, Cambridge, MA: The MIT Press. Ruth A. Palmquist, Asst. Professor, AI and Expert Systems, 1996, http://www.ischool.utexas.edu/~palmquis/courses/ai96.htm Dan E. OLeary, University of Southern California, 1994, http://accounting.rutgers.edu/raw/aies/www.bus.orst.edu/faculty/brownc/es_tutor/bus_ai.htm Robert S. Engelmore, May 1993; WTEC Hyper-Librarian, http://www.wtec.org/loyola/kb/c1_s1.htm Carol E. Brown, Oregon State University, Dan E. OLeary, University of Southern California, 1995, http://accounting.rutgers.edu/raw/aies/www.bus.orst.edu/faculty/brownc/es_tutor/es_tutor.htm#1-AI

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Huntington’s Disease Essay -- Health Medical Medicine Essays

Huntington’s Disease Huntington’s disease is a fatal inherited disorder characterized by slow gradual personality changes, dementia, and choreiform movements. It is a progressive disease; its average onset is thirty to forty years of age, and the duration of the disease is about ten to twenty years with death as the outcome. It is known that for Huntington’s disease, there is a degeneration of cholinergic and GABAergic neurons in the basal ganglia and the cerebral cortex. The etiology of nerve cell death in Huntington’s disease is unknown. However, there is a recent hypothesis implicating defects in mitochondrial energy metabolism as the pathology of Huntington’s disease. Huntington’s disease is an autosomal dominant disease. The genetic defect appears on the short arm of the chromosome 4, and it is an extended repetition of the three nucleotide bases (cytosine, adenine, and guanine; CAG) that code for the amino acid glutamate. This disease affects men and women equally, and it usually appears after the individuals have married and had children. The children of an affected parent have a 50% chance of inheriting the disease. With the discovery of the defective gene, it is now possible to have an accurate diagnosis before the onset of the disease. The early indications of Huntington’s disease are not prominent; the individuals become absentminded, easily irritated, and constantly depressed. Their memory is diminished, and they lack spontaneity, initiative, and the ability to concentrate. There are also early subtle signs of choreiform (dance-like) movements. The persons begin with "piano-playing" movements of the fingers or with slight facial twitching (Martin, 1984). The movements gradually become more uncontrollable. ... ...s? Trends in Neurological Sciences, 16 (4): pp. 125-131. Choi, Dennis W. (1988). Glutamate neurotoxicity and diseases of the nervous system. Neuron, pp.623-632. Prim, D. M., Simpson, J., Uhler, T. A., Short, M. P., Bossi, S. R., Breakefield, X. O., & Isacson, O. (1993). Striatal degeneration induced by mitochondrial blockade is prevented by biologically delivered NGF. Journal of Neuroscience Research, 35: pp. 452-458. Martin, Joseph B. (1984). Huntington’s disease: New approaches to an old problem. Neurology, 34: pp. 1059-1071. Willard, Frank H. (1993). Medical Neuroanatomy: A Problem- Oriented Manual with Annotated Atlas. Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott Company. Young, Anne B. (1993). Role of excitotoxins in heredito-degenerative neurologic diseases. Research Publications- Association for Research in Nervous and Mental Diseases, 71: pp. 175-189. Huntington’s Disease Essay -- Health Medical Medicine Essays Huntington’s Disease Huntington’s disease is a fatal inherited disorder characterized by slow gradual personality changes, dementia, and choreiform movements. It is a progressive disease; its average onset is thirty to forty years of age, and the duration of the disease is about ten to twenty years with death as the outcome. It is known that for Huntington’s disease, there is a degeneration of cholinergic and GABAergic neurons in the basal ganglia and the cerebral cortex. The etiology of nerve cell death in Huntington’s disease is unknown. However, there is a recent hypothesis implicating defects in mitochondrial energy metabolism as the pathology of Huntington’s disease. Huntington’s disease is an autosomal dominant disease. The genetic defect appears on the short arm of the chromosome 4, and it is an extended repetition of the three nucleotide bases (cytosine, adenine, and guanine; CAG) that code for the amino acid glutamate. This disease affects men and women equally, and it usually appears after the individuals have married and had children. The children of an affected parent have a 50% chance of inheriting the disease. With the discovery of the defective gene, it is now possible to have an accurate diagnosis before the onset of the disease. The early indications of Huntington’s disease are not prominent; the individuals become absentminded, easily irritated, and constantly depressed. Their memory is diminished, and they lack spontaneity, initiative, and the ability to concentrate. There are also early subtle signs of choreiform (dance-like) movements. The persons begin with "piano-playing" movements of the fingers or with slight facial twitching (Martin, 1984). The movements gradually become more uncontrollable. ... ...s? Trends in Neurological Sciences, 16 (4): pp. 125-131. Choi, Dennis W. (1988). Glutamate neurotoxicity and diseases of the nervous system. Neuron, pp.623-632. Prim, D. M., Simpson, J., Uhler, T. A., Short, M. P., Bossi, S. R., Breakefield, X. O., & Isacson, O. (1993). Striatal degeneration induced by mitochondrial blockade is prevented by biologically delivered NGF. Journal of Neuroscience Research, 35: pp. 452-458. Martin, Joseph B. (1984). Huntington’s disease: New approaches to an old problem. Neurology, 34: pp. 1059-1071. Willard, Frank H. (1993). Medical Neuroanatomy: A Problem- Oriented Manual with Annotated Atlas. Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott Company. Young, Anne B. (1993). Role of excitotoxins in heredito-degenerative neurologic diseases. Research Publications- Association for Research in Nervous and Mental Diseases, 71: pp. 175-189.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Why New Zealand?

New Zealand is rated as one of the best places to study, work and live. The innate support for high tech industries, ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) thrive under the ecosystem as setup by the government. New Zealand also comes with a great ecosystem for the tourism and adventure sports industries. The country boasts of having some of the finest culinary masters, hospitality experts and extreme sports adrenaline junkies. Whether you are looking for a job as a fresher or as an experienced professional (with the required accreditation), New Zealand provides a plethora of options. New Zealand is one of the safest countries to explore yourself with a diverse international population that is a part of a very vibrant multi-cultural society. You can review an archive of student experiences in New Zealand over here, on the New Zealand Government website, One of the most important aspects of becoming an international student, is the â€Å"Student Experience†. As a part of our education system, Indian students are generally expected to forgo most extra-curricular activities and vacations in the pursuit of staying ahead. However, in New Zealand, as a part of your student experience, you will be encouraged to participate in local events, take part in cultural sports activities like Rugby, go on a break to some of the most serene beaches in the entire world. Who doesn't want to go surfing while getting their Masters done right?How to select the right University in New Zealand?Here's a list of the best ranked universities –University of Auckland: This is New Zealand's largest and most comprehensive university with 40,000 + students, researchers and faculty. Whether you are looking for the latest courses on emerging technologies like Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, CRISPR Genetics, this University has go t you covered.University of Otago: University of Otago comes with a rich cultural history of being NZ's oldest and one of the most predominant universities. A 150 year old history with a groundbreaking alumni circle, University of Otago offers a unique experience like no other.University of Canterbury: University of Canterbury boasts of some of the world's best research programs for post graduates. Compounded with a very relaxed policy on Scholarships and an acute focus on placements and job fairs, University of Canterbury sits at the top of our list.University of Victoria: University of Victoria focuses on creative thinking providing extraordinary environment to every student with fantastic exposure. University of Victoria also offers the world's first indigenous law degree.Massey University: Massey University has campuses in Auckland, Wellington, Manavatu, offers 67 undergraduate major, 89 programs and 1148 staffs.The list above is not exhaustive, instead, it is to give you a tast e of how an education in New Zealand could possibly change your life. Our admissions counselors are tied up with some of the best Universities in this country and ease of acceptance is purely on your ability to generate merit. There's a cornucopia of options when it comes to Universities here, from schools specializing in Medicine and Pharmaceutical research to Financial Engineering and Economic research, to Artificial Intelligence and Core Computer Science, Veterinary, Food Technology, NZ comes with a set of some of the world's best universities, faculties, and thus students. The question to be asked is, what would you like to make yourself into? With a widespread variety of options available for students to specialize themselves into the right industry, we advise you not to go with the social media trend or your neighbor's suggestions, we encourage you to speak to us and people working in the industry, within NZ, so that you get the best expert opinion about these crucial steps. Remember, this is a decision that could potentially transform your life, so please make sure you begin your decision making process from the right place at Manage My Education. Some important links to get you started :www.mmenow.com – Talk to us to get started with a structured approach to selecting your overseas education, to ensure a low rejection rate and a high scholarship rate.https://www.studyinnewzealand.govt.nz/live-work/ – Learn more about how to convert your life as a student into a full time professional in NZ.https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas – Contains a great tool for you to know about Skill Shortage and how you could possibly get a permanent residence in NZhttps://www.studyinnewzealand.govt.nz/in/study-options/universities/ – Browse through more of the world class universities in NZ. Dear Reader,The Universities in NZ are rated to be the top 3% in the world. It is only logical that your profile, application and merits must be within the same caliber. For years, we at Manage My Education have helped students position their profiles for Universities all across the globe. It is our honest advice to you that, you contact us and avail our services to exponentially increase your chances to secure a great education and future in NZ. We encourage you to speak to our counsellors to get the right information before making a decision to move forward.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

How the teachings of Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab influenced everyday life in Saudi Arabia

Introduction Commins (2006, p. 97) asserts that the teachings of Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab have influenced the contemporary political and cultural environment in Saudi Arabia. This religious movement, commonly referred to as the Wahhabi movement started in central Arabia in the mid-18th Century and grew because of the preaching and scholarship of Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab. According to Zayd (2006, p. 41), Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab was a scholar of Islamic jurisprudence who received his education in Mesopotamia and Hijaz and then returned to Najd (central Arabia) to advocate for Islamic reforms. This paper explores how his teachings influenced the everyday life in Saudi Arabia. Allen (2006, p.89) says that Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab was concerned with the practices of the people of Najd, which he regarded as polytheistic and wanted them to stop the practices. He wanted reforms that would remove all practices that were added to Islam after the death of Mohammad. He was against practices like using votive and sacrificial offerings, veneration of caves, stones and trees, celebration of birthdays of prophets, praying to saints and making pilgrimages to special mosques and tombs. These were common practices in Najd and the people here regarded them as being in compliance with Islamic teachings. However, to Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab they were polytheistic. He was concerned with these practices because he perceived them as being lax in terms of adherence to Islamic law. In addition to this, he was also concerned with the fact that the people were reluctant to perform religious devotions like disregard to obligatory prayers, not showing care to the widows and orph ans, rampant adultery and failure to give women their fair share of inheritance. These practices formed the basis of his preaching as he was determined to make the people change their ways of life and start living in full compliance with Islamic laws. Weston (2008, p. 11) asserts that his teachings revolved around the breaches of Islamic laws and emphasised the need to comply with all customary practices like jahiliya. He initially encountered opposition but eventually overcame it by forming an alliance with Muhammad ibn Saud, a local chieftain. This alliance ensured that his influence endured through difficult times because Muhammad ibn Saud was very powerful in southern Najd. Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab and his descendants converted the alliance that was initially for political loyalty into religious obligation that had to be followed by everyone. In his teachings, he insisted that all Muslims must present an oath of allegiance (bayah) to Muslim leaders when alive so that they can get redemption when they die. He emphasised that Muslim leaders must be given unquestionable allegiance from the people as long as they are providing leadership that is in full conformity with Islamic laws. He held the perception that the purpose of the Muslim community was to be a living embodiment of Islamic laws (Hegghammer & Lacroix 2011, p. 64). The responsibility of ensuring that the community knows and conforms to the laws of God lay squarely on the legitimate rulers. Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab and his followers then started a jihad targeting the backsliding Muslims in the region to ensure that there is total obedience to Muslim rulers and God. This was the beginning of religious intolerance in Saudi Arabia. Fatah (2008, p. 77) claims that the key message in the teachings of Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab was tawhid (oneness of God). Tawhid is very important in Saudi Arabia and it is emphasised by both state and religious leaders. It is for this reason that its adherents call the movement as the call for unity (ad dawa lil tawhid). He was against third party intercession and all prayer rituals because he considered them as leading to shirk. This is why he objected Sufi mysticism, celebrating the birthdays of prophets and Shia m ourning ceremonies which were considered as religious festivals. As a consequence grave marking, building of tombs and any other shrines are forbidden in Wahhabism. However this is partly practised in Saudi Arabia because the shrine of Prophet Muhammad is in the country and Muslims go there to pay pilgrimage. They only accept authority from the Sunna and Quran and disregard any reinterpretation of the two books on issues that were already settled by the previous jurists. They totally remain opposed to reinterpretation but give allowance for interpreting the areas not decided by the earlier jurists. Livingstone (2011, p. 50) suggests that they literally interpret the Sunna and Quran and aim towards enforcing parochial Najd practices. The religious and political leadership work collectively in ensuring that there is conformity in behaviour throughout the country. Life in Saudi Arabia is guided by Wahhabism as the government remains committed to ensuring that there is full compliance w ith Islamic laws (Brym & Lie 2010, p. 31). In addition to this, the government has supported the Wahhabi literal interpretations of right and wrong behaviour. Prayer performance in a ritually correct and punctual manner is required of all men. Livingstone (2011, p.54) says that all the believers are forbidden from taking wine because literally, the Quran forbids it. They have extended this ban to include all intoxicating drinks and stimulants like tobacco. Both men and women are required to dress modestly in accordance with the Quran. These conservative regulations have direct influence on all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia. The leaders of Saudi Arabia support the conservative religious establishment and monitor closely the people who present potential threats to their regimes (Lacroix & Holoch 2011, p. 96). In the Middle East, Saudi Arabia ranks as one of the most conservative and restrictive countries with those who do not subscribe to the Islamic religion barred from practicing their faith even in private (DeLong-Bas 2007, p. 66). It is this harsh, conservative and restrictive environment that has led to radicalisation of some people in Saudi Arabia as they have no tolerance to other religious faiths. In school the religious curriculum teaches students that there are two types of people; the first one is the Salafis (Wahhabis) who are the chosen ones and will go to heaven because they are the winners. The other group are Muslims, Jews, Christians and all other religions. These ones are either, enervators, or deniers of God (kafirs) or they put their gods next to God (mushrak). The Sunni Muslims are called enervators because they do things that are proscribed by Salafis like celebrating the birthday of Prophet Mohammed (Husain 2009, p. 15). All these groups of people are not accepted by the Saudi Arabians as Muslims and as such, they are supposed to be hated, persecuted and even killed. This is what the government is encouraging and has led the Saudi Arabia ns to be intolerant to any other dissenting views on religion because of the rapid radicalisation and fundamentalism (Allen 2006, p. 77). This paper has shown that the teachings of Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab influenced everyday life in Saudi Arabia. His teachings, which were originally intended to bring reforms to the Islamic faith, have gone to the extent of radicalising the people of Saudi Arabia. As the paper indicates, they have no tolerance for other religions. To them, the people of other religions should be hated, persecuted and even killed. This is what is fuelling fundamentalism and radicalism in Saudi Arabia and has already brought about extreme terrorists like Osama bin laden among others. References Allen, C. (2006). God’s terrorists: the Wahhabi cult and the hidden roots of modern Jihad. Cambridge: Da Capo Press. Brym, R. J., & Lie, J. (2010). Sociology: Your compass for a new world, the brief edition. Belmont, California: Wadsworth Cengage Learning. Commins, D. (2006). The Wahhabi mission and Saudi Arabia. London : Tauris. DeLong-Bas, N. J. (2007). Wahhabi Islam: From revival and reform to global jihad. London: I.B. Tauris. Fatah, T. (2008). Chasing a mirage: The tragic illusion of an Islamic state. Mississauga, Ont: John Wiley & Sons Canada. Hegghammer, T., & Lacroix, S. (2011). The Meccan rebellion: The story of Juhayman al-?Utaybi revisited. Bristol, England: Amal Press. Husain, E. (2009). The Islamist: Why I became an Islamic fundamentalist, what I saw inside, and why I left. New York, N.Y: Penguin Books USA. Lacroix, S., & Holoch, G. (2011). Awakening Islam: The politics of religious dissent in contemporary Saudi Arabia. Cambridge, Mass: Harvard University Press. L ivingstone, D. (2011). Terrorism and the illuminati: A three-thousand-year history. Joshua Tree, CA: Progressive Press. Weston, M. (2008). Prophets and princes: Saudi Arabia from Muhammad to the present. Hoboken, N.J: Wiley. Zayd, N. A. (2006). Reformation of Islamic thought: A critical historical analysis. Amsterdam: Amsterdam Univ. Press.

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Free Essays on Life After High School

High school is a strange time. After three years of trying to develop identity and friends in middle school, students are expected to mature immediately on the first day of ninth grade, but I never did this. I never fully realized in the earlier grades how important high school success, as measured by GPA, would be to my future life, and as a result I am applying to college with seemingly contradictory measures of my ability to perform college-level work. If I had worked and studied hard rather than hanging out with friends and viewing high school as an opportunity to socialize, I would not have to apply to school with a 1300 SAT and a 2.7 GPA. Had I taken my grades in my earlier years seriously, I could have been a college's dream candidate. This year I have made an earnest effort to improve my work ethic. My grade point average is rising and my study habits are improving. However, after performing poorly for three years, my GPA cannot reflect the transformation I underwent at the start of this year. Dedicated to making something of myself, I finally matured and am now trying to lessen the consequences of my past actions. Armed with my new attitude and my understanding of the extreme importance of earning good grades to signal my capacity to work responsibly, I assure you that I will never revert to the student I once was. In retrospect, I believe that it was my inability to choose my classes that resulted in my lack of enthusiasm on the ride to school each morning. I enjoy the freedom to pursue my own interests and anxiously anticipate the ability to choose my own class schedule in college. While I understand that college will be significantly more challenging than high school, I have always found it easier to study for a class that interests me. I am also willing to accept the fact that as long as I am in school, I will be forced to take required courses that I might be less than enthusiastic about. However, with my new goal-orie... Free Essays on Life After High School Free Essays on Life After High School High school is a strange time. After three years of trying to develop identity and friends in middle school, students are expected to mature immediately on the first day of ninth grade, but I never did this. I never fully realized in the earlier grades how important high school success, as measured by GPA, would be to my future life, and as a result I am applying to college with seemingly contradictory measures of my ability to perform college-level work. If I had worked and studied hard rather than hanging out with friends and viewing high school as an opportunity to socialize, I would not have to apply to school with a 1300 SAT and a 2.7 GPA. Had I taken my grades in my earlier years seriously, I could have been a college's dream candidate. This year I have made an earnest effort to improve my work ethic. My grade point average is rising and my study habits are improving. However, after performing poorly for three years, my GPA cannot reflect the transformation I underwent at the start of this year. Dedicated to making something of myself, I finally matured and am now trying to lessen the consequences of my past actions. Armed with my new attitude and my understanding of the extreme importance of earning good grades to signal my capacity to work responsibly, I assure you that I will never revert to the student I once was. In retrospect, I believe that it was my inability to choose my classes that resulted in my lack of enthusiasm on the ride to school each morning. I enjoy the freedom to pursue my own interests and anxiously anticipate the ability to choose my own class schedule in college. While I understand that college will be significantly more challenging than high school, I have always found it easier to study for a class that interests me. I am also willing to accept the fact that as long as I am in school, I will be forced to take required courses that I might be less than enthusiastic about. However, with my new goal-orie...

Monday, November 4, 2019

Advertising Media in New York City Research Paper

Advertising Media in New York City - Research Paper Example The advertising sector in New York has been dramatically influenced by the recent economic and financial crisis faced by the US. Nonetheless, prior to the downfall of the sector, it has seen a considerable decline in the old media publishing companies accompanied by rigid company marketing budgets. Notably, the impact of globalization and continuous technological advancement is clearly apparent within the sector. The advertising sector in New York City is becoming globalized at a rapid pace (Turrow & McAllister, 2009). Accordingly, the sector is viewed to be moving towards becoming technology oriented. Consequently, the technical advancements have promoted online advertising trend that has enabled an increased judgment regarding creative campaigns. Likewise, in terms of advertising mode, 3D cluster within the advertising sector is expanding rapidly. Conceptually, 3D cluster is a procedure based on which three-dimensional objects are generated through applying sequential levels of met als, thermo-plastics or any other related material (NYCEDC, 2013). The sector shares complementary relationships with another community, which is embedded in the local environment. The advertising companies are constantly engaged in merging with each other in order to further consolidate their place within the sector. This continuous consolidation has certainly placed New York at the center of the sector (Center for Economic Transformation, 2013; Harvey, 2009). Moreover, the gradual shift towards digital content, which is being followed by a considerable decline in the print readerships, has contributed to a crisis situation within the adverting sector. More and more advertising companies are incorporating new and innovative technologies in order to attain long-term sustainability.  

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Bowlby's Viewpoint Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Bowlby's Viewpoint - Assignment Example ent studies, the author attests that healthy, happy and independent young adults and adolescents are products of stable homes in which both parents give enough time and attention to the children. He continues to put that the child’s care giver needs a lot of assistance, from the other parent, though it normally comes from the grandmother in most societies. I totally agree with Bowlby’s way of parenting, because successful parenting is a key to the mental health of the next generation. A parent-child bond is not only healthy for the childs well-being, but an essential part of what it means to be human. Attachment theory teaches three main attachment patterns; secure, avoidant and ambivalent, which are behaviors that continue into adulthood. While they explore the world, securely attached children are confident, since they used the parent as a secure base. Bowlbys work also showed that the early interactions between infant and caregiver have a significant impact on an infants social, emotional, and intellectual growth (Bowlby 1907-1990). On the other hand, an insecurely attached child is unhappy and not confident enough to explore the world. Consider a child brought up by a single mother, who is always busy and overwhelmed by activities, and has less time to spend with the child, the child obviously grows up unattached to the parents and feeling insecure at the same time. The provision of access to the parent’s body is a fundamental feature in developing secure attachment. Dependency, the child’s tie to the mother, has the effect of keeping the child in more proximity to its mother-figure. For example, attachment behavior of a child is activated mostly by pain, fatigue, fright, and the mother’s inaccessibility. Bowlby cited the description of Klaus, Trause and Kennelle (1975), on how a mother picks up and begins to stroke the baby’s face with her little finger immediately after its birth. At this time, the baby quietness and when put to her breasts, it

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Policies and Politics - Patient Representing a Diagnosis Essay

Policies and Politics - Patient Representing a Diagnosis - Essay Example Having such a high annual number of new cases with young citizens is an indication that the role of educators is not achieving effective results. This paper will address the lack of effectiveness of the educators as a policy issue, identify stakeholders, highlight nursing’s political involvement and state the writer’s position on the issue. The writer chose the case of a patient representing a diagnosis because she cared for a newly diagnosed young citizen who claimed not to have been properly informed on lifestyle choices. The American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) provides persons with diabetes and their educators a representation at the state and federal governments, supporting activities relevant to the stakeholders and public policy relating to diabetes. However, according to the policy and advocacy goals they set up years ago, their impact is not as effective as may be desired: 1.9 million new cases in one year do not reflect success. Their goals included supporting initiatives that avoid more people developing diabetes; promoting education in diabetes and the educators’ role in healthcare; campaigning for policies that promote access to self-management training; and attaining reasonable reimbursement for educators. If the goals and the facilitating policies were well thought out, then the nation should have realized a significant drop in the number of new cases. The policies need to be updated. The process of moving a healthcare issue through policy-making, from a bill to an enactment, links health care to politics. This brings together several stakeholders who impact the decision making. They include elected officials, nurses, patients and special interest groups, all with varying perspectives of the situation, which are further diversified by the interests of the political parties.

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Physical Preparedness Of Columbus Police Essay Example for Free

Physical Preparedness Of Columbus Police Essay Describe in one page or less how you would select the Columbus Police patrol officers to be surveyed. The Research Project: Physical Preparedness of Columbus Police Officers in Citizen Encounters Involving Force. Target Panel: Respondents of this research should have the following qualifications: Must be between the age of   21 – 35 Must have 6 or more months field experience as a Patrol officer of Columbus Must be active in the police force Must be a resident of Columbus Must at least have one physical encounter with a citizen Sample Size: 1000 police patrol officers Methodology: This research will employ a qualitative and quantitative research wherein a representative sample of the target audience will be randomly selected to create a target panel. Through qualitative research by using an open-ended questionnaire, spontaneous or not pre-determined responses are solicited through a free willing method. Meanwhile, the answers from the qualitative research will be further dealt with in the quantitative research using a closed-ended questionnaire that will provide figures or raw data. Through these two types of research, the researcher will determine the cause of the lack of preparation of police officers during encounters with civilians. Construct a brief 5-item unstructured, open-ended questionnaire that will determine the patrol officers’ views as to how well they are prepared for physical encounters with citizens where lethal force is not an issue.    Open-ended questionnaire for Focus Group Discussion What are the risks involved in being a police officer in Columbus? If physical encounter with citizens is not cited, ask about the probability of experiencing physical encounters with citizens while on duty. What kind of trainings did you receive before you engaged in police field operations or patrol duty? Were these trainings able to help you prepare for physical encounters with citizens? Why? If not, why? As a police officer, what do you think are the factors that provoke physical encounters with citizens? Enumerate tactics or methods on how to conduct proper management of physical encounters with citizens? Explain each tactic/method. What are the causes of mismanagement of physical encounters with citizens? How should these be prevented? Construct an 8-item structured questionnaire using closed-end questions that involve multiple response choices that addresses the same issue in Question #2. Closed-ended questionnaire for Survey Questions Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree 1. Is your job as a patrol officer worth all the risks? 2. Do you think that force is needed in enforcing the law? 3. Are you willing to employ force when you are threatened by a civilian? 4. Do civilians usually provoke physical encounters with law enforcers? 5. Do you think that the use of force is effective in promoting compliance? 6. Do you think that there is a need to have a good physical and quick-thinking build to better handle physical encounters? 7. Do you think that by having police weapons and gadgets will help you do your job better in enforcing the law? 8. Are you prepared physically, emotionally and psychologically to engage in a physical encounter with a civilian?

Sunday, October 27, 2019

General Motors Mission, Vision, and Values

General Motors Mission, Vision, and Values Company Background Founded in 1908, General Motors Corporation (GM) is the worlds largest automaker and has been the global industry leader in sales for 76 years (General Motors, 2008a). The United States is GMs largest national market, followed by China, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Today, the company employs about 284,000 people worldwide. With its global headquarters located in Detroit, GM manufactures cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, GM sold 9.1 million cars and trucks globally under the brands Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Hummer, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, and Vauxhall (General Motors, 2008a). GM has fostered partnerships with many automobile manufacturers around the world. The company is currently the majority shareholder in GM Daewoo Auto Technology Co. of South Korea (General Motors, 2008a). GM has collaborated with Suzuki Motor Corp. and Isuzu Motors Ltd. of Japan with product, powertrain, and purchasing. The company has also collaborated with DaimlerChrysler AG and BMW AG of Germany, and Toyota Motor Corp., on advanced technology and ventured in vehicle manufacturing with several automakers, including Toyota, Suzuki, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. of China, AVTOVAZ of Russia, and Renault SA of France. The company currently sells its genuine parts and accessories under the GM, GM Performance Parts, GM Goodwrench, and ACDelco brands through GM Service and Parts Operations, which supplies GM dealerships and distributors worldwide (General Motors, 2008a). With all of GMs success in the past, the company is facing challenges during this time of economic hardship. The companys market valuation has decreased to $5.9 billion and its stock prices are at its lowest in 50 years (Lowenstein, 2008), which is evident with a closing price of $9.69 on July 10, 2008 (Yahoo Finance, 2008a). The skyrocketing price of oil seems to be the immediate cause of GMs problems, decreasing the sale of its sport utility vehicles and trucks (Lowenstein, 2008). The automaker is potentially looking at more layoffs and speculation of a possible sale of Buick and Pontiac (Lowenstein, 2008), however GMs vice president states that Hummer is the only brand the automaker is considering selling at this time (Yahoo Finance, 2008b). Mission/Vision Statement The mission/vision of GM is to be the world leader in transportation products and related services (General Motors, 2008b). Through continuous improvements driven by integrity, teamwork, and innovation of GM people, the company has earned its customers trust and enthusiasm. With all of the competition and the advancement of hybrid and alternative fueled vehicles, GM should look to being a leader of innovation. With this in mind, the mission statement could read GM will become the world leader in quality, innovative, and cost efficient products. The mission is for GM to become the auto industry leader in sales and market share in the global market. Company Values GM has six core values in which employees are to use in conducting daily business practices (General Motors, 2008c). These core values consist of continuous improvement, customer enthusiasm, innovation, teamwork, and individual respect and responsibility. These values must portray an image to the companys consumers that it values their needs and wants. With this said GM should add customer value and thinking green to its core values. This measure would show the company is focused on achieving high levels of customer satisfaction by providing innovative products that offer customers more choices with alternative fueled vehicles. Thinking green will show the company is concerned with doing right by the environment How Mission, Vision, and Values Aid in Reaching Desired End State Mission/Vision In order for GM to achieve its vision, the company understands that many issues must be addressed in order to attain its many goals. In order to become a more sustainable company, GM recognizes the importance of integrating economic, environmental, and social objectives into its daily business objectives and future planning activities. The future success of the company partly depends on technology, innovation, and partnerships (General Motors, 2008b). With technology, GM can efficiently address climate changes and fuel efficiency through its products. By accelerating the development and deployment of new technology, the company is able to improve its existing technology. Innovation provides GM with the tools to develop new ways of doing things as a company and with others. With increased competition in the global industry, innovation is critical in the future success of the company. In order to continue being responsive to the needs and concerns of its stakeholder and creating a sustainable future, GM understands the importance of continuing to build strong partnerships with the employees, industries, governments, markets, and communities, and others in order to be responsive to the needs and concerns of our various stakeholders (General Motors, 2008b). Values GM is based on is six fundamental values.With these values, the company has adopted and endorsed principles, such as the GM Environmental Principles and the Global Sullivan Principles. These principles are consistent with the companys values and serve to inform its strategies. The company states, These strategies drive our behaviors and actions, which produce the results that matter (General Motors, 2008c). Components of the Strategic Management Process Needing to be Analyzed Effect the New Strategy will have on the Leadership and Culture of the Organization How the Outcomes will Affect Stakeholders References General Motors. (2008a). About GM: Company profile. Retrieved July 10, 2008, from http://www.gm.com General Motors. (2008b). Sustainability and GM: Vision and Strategy. Retrieved July 10, 2008, from http://www.gm.com General Motors. (2008c). 2005/06 corporate responsibility report. Retrieved July 9, 2008, from http://www.gm.com Lowenstein, R. (2008). Siphoning G.M.s future. New York Times, p. A.21. Retrieved July 10, 2008, from ProQuest database. Yahoo Finance. (2008a). General Motors Corporation (GM): Historical prices. Retrieved July 12, 2008, from http://finance.yhoo.com/ Yahoo Finance. (2008b). GM reassures dealers only Hummer brand is for sale. Reuters. Retrieved July 10, 2008, from http://biz.yahoo.com

Friday, October 25, 2019

About the Writer Willy Russell :: Willy Russell Playwright biographies Essays

About the Writer Willy Russell William Russell was born in Whiston - just outside Liverpool, in 1947. At primary school he enjoyed reading, football and gardening, these were the only subjects he likes, but at secondary school he was consigned to the factory fodder D stream. It was in this surprising environment that he conceived the idea of being a writer. His only experience of factory work caused him to fail to obtain a printing apprenticeship, so his mother suggested he trained to be a women's hairdresser. He trained and worked as a women's hairdresser for five years, eventually running his own salon. After this he was seeking a career that would give him a greater opportunity and understanding of being a writer. He decided to become a student, having now passed O level English at night classes. No local education authority would give him a bursary, so he spent some time girder cleaning at Fords in order to fund his college O & A level studies. He only did this long enough so that he could afford the course; he spent no time extra doing this job as climbing up on dirty, oily girders was a very dangerous job which many of his colleagues were injured on. You can see in the play that Russell is commenting on society as Russell is almost like Rita, she lives near Liverpool with little education and works in a hairdresser, trying to get the opportunity to have choice by getting an education. During the play, Russell shows that the class system is a part of modern society and Rita wants to change classes, from working to middle, but has little education. She wants Equal opportunities in that the way that women are expected to have babies and stay at home all day, but in his play Rita breaks away from everyone else and gets an education and he shows in the play, how hard it really is to get an education and all the troubles that someone of a lower class has to go through to achieve there goals. I think that Russell wrote this play because he had a hard time in his own life, and he wanted to express to other people that you need to have a choice or you will begin to experience a feeling of being trapped in society. I think that Russell used humour in his play because it would make the audience watching the play understand the issues brought up. I think the play runs better as a comedy, with the humour aspects of the play rather than a more serious drama.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Motivation Essay

INTRODUCTION Motivation is the process of initiating and directing behaviour based on the persistence of effort to satisfy an individual goal or need (Petri, 1991; Robbins et al, 2000 and Robbins et al, 2001). There are two approaches to understanding motivation, each of which has theories expanding to support the nature of motivation. Content theories focuses on what motivates an individual. In contrast to process theories of motivation which focus on how individual behaviour is motivated. This essay will focus on motivation in an educational context and the importance to provide opportunities and motivation for students.The purpose of this essay is to present a theoretical overview of the key differences between content theories and process theories of motivation. Then a programme developed from a theory to be applied to an undergraduate business course at Monash University. The motivational programme will focus on improving the assessment technique used by lecturers and tutors (â €Å"teachers†) that will motivate and improve undergraduate students learning ability. The aim will be to encourage students to gain a better understanding of the core concepts of business.Assessment in universities needs to be reshaped in order to motivate students. CONTENT THEORIES OF MOTIVATION Content theories are also referred to, as need theories. That is, motivational theories that look at what individual needs motivate and direct behaviour to respond to specific goals. Many early theories from the 1950? s, include Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y and Herzberg’s motivation-hygiene theory, established core concepts which have helped explain motivation especially in an organisational setting.McClelland’s three needs theory is a more contemporary view on the content theory approach to motivation that focuses on three important needs in work situations. Each theory identifies individual needs in order to understand b ehaviour. The main factors that underlie this approach is the need to understand that individuals have different needs, and what can be offered in response to these different needs as well as the importance on the external working environment to give individuals the opportunity to satisfy their needs (Robbins et al, 2000, p558).An example of a content theory of motivation is Douglas McGregor theory of the A? A ±A? A µeconomic manA? A ±A? A ¶. He proposed 2 contrasting views of human nature. McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y suggested one negative (Theory X) and one positive (Theory Y) view on human beings. He â€Å"concluded that a manager’s view of the nature of human beings is based on a certain grouping of assumptions and that he or she tends to mould his or her behaviour towards employees according to these assumptions† (Robbins et al, 2001, p199).The negative assumptions were labeled â€Å"Theory X†, which held four dominant assumptions of wor kers. Workers dislike work and go to great strengths to avoid it. Based on this it is believed that workers need to be punished with tight control systems in order for them to achieve goals. In addition, workers lack responsibility, thus need formal directions from superiors to perform. Such Theory X workers are predominately motivated by lower-order needs according to Maslow’s hierarchy for example they need security.In contrast, â€Å"Theory Y† assumes higher order needs dominate individuals. Thus, Theory Y workers enjoy responsibility where they can exhibit self-direction and self-control. Therefore, in order to motivate workers, mangers need to provide a working environment that provides challenging jobs and minimal formalisation. Applying this to an educational context, it can be assumed that teachers can either have a Theory X or a Theory Y view of students. That is, teachers can view students as A? A ±A?A ·lazy or un-cooperative† (Theory X) OR as †Å"being clever and work hard† (Theory Y). Teachers that adapt a Theory Y approach, are more likely to be attuned to students’ needs, actively participate with students to increase student skill-development and learning (OECD, 2000). It is important for teachers to become more student-centered. Therefore assessment must â€Å"focus more on student learning outcomes and students’ attitudes about what they are learning and their role in the teaching and learning process† (Carey, Wallace and Carey, 2001).This can be better understood by considering process theories of motivation. Process theories of motivation set out to explain how people choose a course of action they will pursue, not solely on individual needs like content theories. PROCESS THEORIES OF MOTIVATION Despite the fact that content theories of motivation have helped many organisations understand employee motivation, many of their concepts alone do not provide a comprehensive understanding of moti vation. Therefore, the introduction of another approach to understanding motivation was brought about.Process theories of motivation attempt to explain the process of arousing behaviour, sustaining and regulating the pattern of behaviour (Ames and Ames, 1989). Theories include goal setting, reinforcement, equity and expectancy theory. â€Å"These theories attempt to explain why people choose to behave in a certain way and the reasons they react as they do† (Robbins et al, 2000, p558). In contrast to content theories of motivation, which looked at what initiates behaviour to satisfy a need, this approach broadens the perspective of motivation. It looks at the underlying reasoning that influence individuals to behave and respond in a certain way.Therefore, motivating students by either punishing them to perform or encouraging self-direction, the goal setting theory, identifies underlying factors that achieve a given behaviour, which is the key to understanding the process appro ach to motivation. Goal setting theory states that â€Å"specific and difficult goals, with goal feedback, lead to higher performance† (Robbins et al, 2001, p770). That is, work motivation can be increased with goal specific directed behaviour. It also proposes that difficult goals, provided that the individual has accepted them, lead to higher performance than general goals.However, feedback is essential in the achievement of specific and difficult goals â€Å"because feedback helps identify discrepancies between what they have done and what they want to do† (Robbins et al, 2000, p559). In order to gain the performance benefits of specific goals, feedback helps shape the individuals behaviour. Better still, self-generated feedback is a greater motivator as it allows the individual to monitor their progress. Robbins et al (2000) suggested that goal setting theory is best suited to cultures were there is a moderate power distance, low in uncertainty avoidance and high i n quantity of life like Australia and New Zealand.These ensure a reasonable level of independence amongst individuals and those individuals will not be threatened to take on difficult goals. Also the importance of performance is shared by all. In goal setting theory, â€Å"the characteristics of a goal and attitudes towards it are thought to be influenced by incentives, self-perceptions and the manner in which the goals are set† (Brotherton, 1999, p36). Therefore, in an educational context the teacher and student need to work together to determine behavioural strategies that will lead to performance.End-of course evaluations conducted by Monash University A? A ±A? A ·elicit students’ attitudes about instructors and the role that they play in the teaching/learning process† (Carey, Wallace and Carey, 2001). Such instruments assess students’ motivation for learning and allow for continuous course and program improvement. MOTIVATIONAL PROGRAMME Feedback fr om end-of course evaluations â€Å"usually prompts an ongoing adaptation of a course to the emerging learning needs of its students† (Panasuk and Leabaron, 1999).It was found that â€Å"students consistently expressed views that new assessment motivated them to work in different ways† (Sambell and McDowell, 1998). The aim in developing motivational programme for undergraduate students will focus on assessment reform applying the goal setting theory. This proposition will encourage students to target specific goals, in hope that it will result in higher performance. The programme will involve students in their evaluation process in order to motivate them to actively participate in their skill-development and improve learning. Every act of assessment gives a message to students about what they should be learning and how they should go about it† (Sambell and McDowell, 1998). The programme will suggest that goals based evaluation criteria will improve studentsâ€℠¢ motivation in turn achieving a greater level of performance. The programme will focus on behaviour related to undergraduate business students at Monash University. It will include a check mark grading system that will be designed around behavioural objectives. The check-mark systems sets a specific standard for document quality, and instructors give a paper a â€Å"check mark† when it meets the standard† (Sorenson, Savage and Hartman, 1993). Students are required to set their own achievement goals, in terms of grades based on their overall subject result. That way they can evaluate their progress toward their goals on their own with each assignment mark. â€Å"This necessitates defining goals for oneself, using self-directed strategies to accomplish these goals, and assessing progress† (Larsen and Thisted, 1999).The programme will involve behavioural objective questionnaires that will identify what the students want to achieve at Monash. This will include long- term goals (degree completion) as well as short-term goals (average subject result e. g. distinction, right down to improving structure of writing). â€Å"Defining tasks in terms of short-term goals can help students to associate effort with success, but of course long-term goals are also needed if students are to become lifelong â€Å"learners† (OECD, 2000, p. 31). It will also involve social objectives (develop a good rapport with teachers). Using behavioural objectives may help students organize and structure† their learning and â€Å"may produce positive attitudes toward learning† (Sorenson, Savage and Hartman, 1993). Also, they outline behavioural objectives of each student, which are associated with goal difficulty. In addition, a student performance evaluation form is to be handed in with each assignment, outlining specific goals that the essay is to achieve. For example, good use of relevant and current references, each paragraph systematically links one to the other etc.Also the overall mark the student expects on the assignment based on their effort. From this teachers are to use the check mark system and self-evaluation system to grade the work. It is very important to give feedback, especially in relation to student evaluation forms outlining their objectives. Limited feedback such as â€Å"meaning well done or â€Å"meaning re-consider, needs to be more specific. Effective feedback should provide shorthand comments, throughout the paper and on the marking sheet, clearly clarifying any issues. Such feedback is called evaluative feedback. Evaluative feedback helps the individual understand the performance information by comparing it to standards or to the individual’s own past performance† (Larsen and Thisted, 1999). In addition, it is important to direct them where possible to achieve a higher mark, therefore feedback needs to be constructive. â€Å"Constructive feedback is task-specific and focuses attention on the task† (Larsen and Thisted, 1999). By focusing on the task and â€Å"providing target objectives results in the achievement of more objectives† (Sambell and McDowell, 1998).When students use the check-mark system, they can identify what they must do to achieve higher marks. Obviously, the goal difficulty set by students varies among the constraints of his/her ability. In this programme, it is important to provide specific feedback and include student participation in selecting objectives. In light of this, between the behavioural objectives system, grading method and student outcomes, students should actually be motivated to increase performance under these systems. CONCLUSIONThe theoretical issues proposed in motivational theories such as the economic man developed by McGregor and the benefits of setting specific and difficult goals are important. The distinction on how they motivate an individual is a major influence on behaviour. Applying motivational theory to a n educational context we draw our attention toward skill development, satisfaction and achievement. In developing a motivational programme, the focus was on assessment reform focusing on undergraduate business students at Monash University. Teachers and students need to work together in assessing ones performance.It is believed that â€Å"individuals are mutually motivated to learn when they do not have to fear failure, when they perceive what they are learning as being personally meaningful and relevant and when they are in respectful and supportive relationships with teachers† (OECD, 2000, p29). Therefore, by using a goal setting approach to motivate students, student participation in selection of objectives in as â€Å"research on the motivational value of goals, both the check-mark and behavioural/performance objective systems seem to motivate students to improve performance† (Sorenson, Savage and Hartman, 1993).However, with today’s rapid change and emergen ce of new knowledge and theory, universities will have more concepts on which to build and develop on â€Å"motivating the school’s participants so as to obtain the best possible educational results† (Panasuk and Lebaron, 1999). http://www. writing-expert. com/blog/sample-essays/essay-on-motivation. html