Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Innovation in health issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Innovation in health issues - Essay Example This research uses internal locus embedded with Precede Proceed Model to make children believe that obesity can be controlled through internal efforts rather blaming external factors like cultural and social issues. As discussed in the literature review, childhood obesity in the 5th grade of Latino community from 1-12 years of age in the Long Beach area is on a rise mainly because of the socio-economic and cultural factors. Precede Proceed Model will be used to deal with the obesity problem. The Precede Proceed Model consists of eight phases where four are planning phases, one is implementation phase, and the remaining 3 are evaluation phases. The first phase of the model will talk about the social diagnosis by assessing the quality of life of children through personal interaction and assessment of weight and diet. The second phase will assess the health problem by assessing other health issues through medical tests. The third phase, behavioural and environmental diagnosis will inves tigate the food choices of children and their daily activities along with identifying the impact of the environment by investigating the access to healthy food, family influence, and proximity of food joints. The fourth phase, educational and organsiational diagnosis will deal with predisposing factors like perceived risk by communicating the same to childrenââ¬â¢s parents along with using reinforcing factors like arranging for healthcare providers and using their advice and suggestions to deal with the obesity issue.
Monday, October 28, 2019
Illusion and Identity in Atwoodââ¬â¢s Essay Example for Free
Illusion and Identity in Atwoodââ¬â¢s Essay Identity in Atwoodââ¬â¢s ââ¬Å"This is a Photograph of Meâ⬠In her poem ââ¬Å"This is a Photograph of Me,â⬠author Margaret Atwood uses imagery and contrast to explore issues of illusion versus reality as well as identity. The poem is split into two halves. The first half contains descriptive words about scenery and natural objects, and the second half, surrounded by parentheses, begins with the unnerving surprise that the narrator is dead. The poem opens with a description of a picture that at first seems blurry but slowly comes into focus, like a photograph slowly developing, that even resembles a written poem itself (ââ¬Å"blurred lines and grey flecks/blended with the paper. â⬠) The second and third stanzas go on to describe objects in the picture, including a ââ¬Å"small frame house,â⬠a ââ¬Å"lake,â⬠and ââ¬Å"some low hills. â⬠The first half has a reminiscent and descriptive tone, falsely leading the reader along with serenity. But even here, there is a shroud of mystery, with a description not just of a ââ¬Å"branch,â⬠but of ââ¬Å"a thing that is like a branch,â⬠and the house is ââ¬Å"halfway up/ what ought to be a gentle slope,â⬠not halfway up a gentle slope. What could this mean? The calm albeit mysterious peacefulness of the first half ends with the fourth stanzaââ¬â¢s jarring declaration, beginning with an opening parenthesis, that the photograph the narrator is describing ââ¬Å"was taken/ the day after [she] drowned. The pace of the poem after this revelation seems frantic, searching for the narrator in the lake, which was in the first half described as being ââ¬Å"in the backgroundâ⬠and now ââ¬Å"in the center/ of the picture. â⬠The narrator tells the reader that what can be seen is distorted and one must look intently, playing with the themes of illusion and identity. Perhaps the ambiguity of the poem and the exploration of illusion and identity are hinting at a feminist perspective that a womanââ¬â¢s true spirit is overcast by a male-dominated society. Or perhaps the poemââ¬â¢s focus is eluding to a more universal human search for identity, a with a narrator who is unsure and obscured, but ââ¬Å"just under the surface,â⬠about to break out ââ¬â previously dead but now reborn, to find a new path. Or perhaps the author is talking about poetry or literature itself and the authorââ¬â¢s hidden intentions lurking in the work. As noted earlier, the description of the ââ¬Å"photographâ⬠at the beginning resembles a description of a poem: ââ¬Å"blurred lines and grey flecks/ blended with the paper,â⬠like lines of writing and the letters comprising words. The author dies with the birth of her poem, when the piece lives on its own; but the author is still there, somewhere, her intentions a key part of the text. The photograph in the poem, in the first half, is described as ââ¬Å"smearedâ⬠and ââ¬Å"blurredâ⬠and in the second half there is still ââ¬Å"distortion. â⬠So instead of disclosing the narratorââ¬â¢s story and identity, no resolution is apparent. On the contrary, the photograph creates illusion and obscures identity. The reader is left with uncertainty, just like the blurred and distorted photograph of the poem.
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Shakespeare in Love and Romeo and Juliet Essay -- Romeo and Juliet Pla
Shakespeare In Love,à Romeo and Juliet the play, Romeo and Juliet with Leonardoà DiCaprioà à à à à à à à à à à All these worksà display very different ideas from the original story and it's creation. Each one of them has it's own way of portraying the time, the characters, and the themes. Being shown a variety of opinions about what exactly was going on in Shakespeare's head when he was writing this magnificent play allows us to be open to our own ideas about it's creation. It gives everyone the chance to put on their own version in their head. Thus making it a very controversial play. à à à à à Sometimes ideas and opinions are so wide spread that people argue about what exactly was the purpose of a certain action or scene. This is what leads to the creation of various different versions. Each different movie is actually a certain directors' take on the play. Each of these versions is so unique that it might sometimes be difficult to visualize that they all tell the same story. à à à à à The original story is that of two star crossed lovers and there journey to finally be together. The lovers, Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet are forced to deal with the fact that their families have been feuding for generations. In other words this means that they are forbidden to communicate with members of the other family; Nonetheless have a romantic relationship with one another. à à à à à After many a battle with members of Juliet's extended family, Romeo winds up killing Tibault, her cousin. He is then banished from the city of Verona, Italy. Juliet, heartbroken yet confused, then decides to take drastic measures and fake her own death to keep herself from being forced to marry another man that has been chosen by her father. Her plan is to send Rom... ...g that I was used to discussing in any of my English classes throughout high school and college. The main reason for the lack of discussion about William Shakespeare's life is probably that there are close to no facts about himself. This leaves a wide gap open for theories and different ideas. à à à à à I can't believe it has taken me this long to even speculate on his life and time. Often I forget about the author when reading novels or plays. I don't do this on purpose but I am just not used to seriously discussing an author's thoughts on their own work. I only imagine what Shakespeare would think of the different versions of his play and his life. Would he consider all of them accurate? Might he think that they are attempting to be as successful as his masterpiece is? And last but not least would he think that Shakespeare In Love is ridiculous or is it true? Ã
Thursday, October 24, 2019
Tourism in Lesotho
It is called the Kingdom in the sky. Where you can touch the clouds and be as one with nature. The mountains of Lesotho provides serenity, a rejuvenation of the mind, a revitalizing of the spirit things which cannot be described but can only be experienced. And it is too true that if you have not been to the mountains, you have not been to Lesotho. The sheer majesty of the peaks as they kiss the clouds leaves one breathless, the cascading rivers flowing from on high bringing forth life giving, natureââ¬â¢s best, fresh clean crystal clear water. It is as if you have crossed into another realm. This natural tourist paradise is begging to be marketed to draw people from all over the world for the benefit of Basotho people. The mountains are but one of the many tourist attractions Lesotho is endowed with. Added to them are the falls the historical monuments which have enriched the folklore of the country for many years. All these places have potential to generate income especially during the 2010 soccer world cup if well marketed, making big strides towards the achievement of the national vision 2020. Promoting tourism in Lesotho is a sure fire way to social and economic development, and to the attraction of much needed foreign investment. Lesotho is really a wonderland for nature lovers or those who simply appreciate the wonders of nature. It has a real culture, natural history and boundless ecotourism options. Overview of Lesotho as tourist destination ââ¬Å"Kingdom in the skyâ⬠, also known as ââ¬Å"Friendly mountain Kingdomâ⬠. This popular eco destination is characterized by its remote, rugged mountains and deep valleys, with plummeting waterfalls that form a spectacular frozen stalactite in the winter months. Lesotho is truly idyllic destination. A mere four hours drive from Johannesburg or Durban is a place where the sun shines three hundred days a year. This country has the lowest point that is one thousand meters above sea level and boasts the highest single drop in Southern Africa. It has the highest road pass in Southern Africa at 3275 meters and is one of the few countries in the world that is completely land locked. Lesothoââ¬â¢s two main mountain ranges are the Snow-capped Maloti and Drakensbug ranges. The capital, Maseru, is the only city in Lesotho. However there are also several large towns in each of its ten districts. The ever-friendly Basotho people are eager to share their culture with tourists. The serene simplicity of their highlands life is enviable. This indeed is a country where time stands still. For the people of the world, the natural and cultural features that are of outstanding universal importance and value include the unique mountain wet lands and alpine tundra eco systems, the superlative natural beauty and the distinctive array of both plants and animals. In addition, the natural setting provides a glimpse into a way of life of the San who once lived there, documenting their lives and spirituality in over 40 thousand rock art images in almost 600 sites. Liphofung (place of Clarence) Situated just off the main road from Butha-Buthe to Mokhotlong, Liphofung (place of Clarence), was a stop over for Moshoeshoe I the founder of the Basotho Nation on his way from Menkhoaneng to Thaba-Busiu. The place is now famous for its museum and one of the largest galleries in the world which has the art of the first habitats of Lesotho, the San (Bush men) who lived there over 10 000 years ago. Some of the rock paintings Close by, with a height of 3482m (11 424 ft), is Thabana-Ntlenyana, which literally means ââ¬ËBeautiful Little Black Mountainââ¬â¢. It is the highest point in Lesotho and the highest mountain in Africa South of Kilimanjaro. It is found in Mokhotlong district, 15km (approximately 1. 5 hrs. drive) from the top of Sani Pass and it is to the top of Kotisephola Pass, 3250m. It is famous for its unpredictable atmospheric weather, veering from thunderstorms, very low temperatures to scorching suns or siege by mysterious mists which make it more unforgettable. These mountains are best experienced from within Lesotho. Historically it is here in these mountains where Basotho fled from the Zulu King Shaka, in the 19th century. The mountains became their fortress and protection. The route to Thabana-Ntlenyana is filled with formidable twists and turns of the sheer craggy mountains, majestic valleys and cascading streams meandering between the rocks. A combination of all these is a definition of a true scenic beauty giving a sense of remoteness in spring and summer, but a virginal white in winter. There is a friendly highest pub in Africa called Sani Top Chalet at 2874m above sea level. The route to Thabana-Ntlenyana is filled with formidable twists and turns of the sheer craggy mountains, majestic valleys and cascading streams meandering between the rocks. Combination of all these is a definition of a true scenic beauty. The plateau landscape is simply beautiful with awesome vegetation, open yellow plains and a distinct sense of remoteness , more especially during spring and summer seasons, but a virginal white in winter. Visible along the route are small stone build huts ( called Metebo in Sesotho) which are in isolation, deep into the mountains, in which rural Basotho shepherds live while looking after their cattle and sheep. There are many view points where tourists can stop to observe this remarkable beauty. This arduous trek to Thabana-Ntlenyana can be undertaken on a horseback or alternatively a 4WD vehicle. Thabana-Ntlenyana is also preferred for skiing, ice skating and snowboarding during winter season, which is from May to August. Near this mountain are the headwaters of the Tugela and Senqu (Orange) rivers, where fly fishing and water rafting are possible during summer season. Hiking, rock climbing and pony trekking are enjoyed throughout the year. Mornings here are such heart-warming with different kinds of birds with beautiful music to prepare you to the day ahead. It is with no doubt that a day is just not enough for one to be at this place because of the many activities provided here. Among the most interesting activities provided, here is ââ¬Ëwalkingââ¬â¢ which really offers an ideal way in which to explore the fascinating archaeological sites found in this area. Afri-Ski The novelty of snow in Africa is best experienced at Afri-Ski which caters for skiing in winter. With a ski slope 3222m above sea level, Afri-Ski is the largest skiing resort in Africa. The skiers are accommodated at the New Oxbow Lodge and self catering Mahlasela Lodge. Trout fishing and water rafting take place in summer in Maliba-Mats`o, a river just a couple kilometers from Oxbow Lodge. Pony Trekking is another activity in summer. Letseng Diamond mine It is not just a diamond mine!. It is the worldââ¬â¢s highest altitude mine with 3 kilometres above sea level, experiencing -20 degrees Celsius in winter . It is in this mine where the highest proportions of largest stones of any mine in the world are found. The discoveries states that in 1967 a 601 carat stone was discovered and a 215 carat stone was recovered in 2005. In August 2006, a 603 carat stone was discovered being ââ¬Å"the 15th largest rough diamond ever discovered, and the biggest diamond un covered in this centuryâ⬠. Letseng does not only play a significant role in the economy of Lesotho as a mine but also as a tourist destination as it accommodates tourists who want to have a feel of the ââ¬ËMine in the skyââ¬â¢ as it were. This is enhanced by the close proximity of ââ¬Å"The Khubelu Hot spring. â⬠The hot spring is at close range to Letseng Diamond mine, sharing social backgrounds and other aspects encompassed in Mental, Physical and Spiritual building of a living being. Khatse Dam This centerpiece of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project is a fine piece of engineering. The flooded valleys of the dam extend for 45km and the dam wall is 185m high. This dam is second in size (in Africa) only to the Lake Volta Akosombo Dam in Ghana. The view of this massive dam from Mafika Lisiu Pass is magnificent and is often of great interest to visitors. The centre piece of the whole project is the dam wall which is the highest in Africa. An area of the lake can be devoted to water sports. Thaba Bosiu Thaba-Bosiu is Lesothoââ¬â¢s great national monument. The mystical Thaba Bosiu is a flat-topped hill which was used by Moshoeshoe I as his citadel when establishing the nation. In translation, the name means ââ¬ËMountain of the nightââ¬â¢ and it is believed that the enemies of Moshoeshoe could not attack as the hill became a formidable mountain at night but went back to a hill during the day. The substantial remains of the Kingââ¬â¢s dwellings and villages and the royal cemetery of Lesotho are on top of the hill. Maletsunyane Falls Maletsunyane Falls in Semonkong is one of the highest single-drop falls in Southern Africa plunging 200 meters into a swim able pool whose stunning natural scenery is unspoiled by anything man-made. It is nearly twice as high as Victoria Falls, though not nearly as wide. The falls are very impressive, and can be visited on pony-trekking trails from both Malealea to the West and Molimo Nthuse to the North. Maletsunyane Falls are most spectacular in summer when the flow is highest, but in winter the water freezes, spraying the rocks with ice water. Conclusion Lesotho is indeed in a class of its own in tourism terms and the sensitive exploitation of its endowments can firmly place the country on the world tourism map.
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Intro of duality in dr
The upper class and the middle classes were very concerned about morality, money and appearance, since they wanted to keep a high respect among their friends, and declassify themselves from the lower level of society. This meant that every ââ¬Ërespectable' person belonging to these social classes had to conform to social standards and to the ideas of virtues, ethics, charity and respectability. So they built another personality, behind which they hld their true characters, keeping their instincts and real preferences secret.Women were considered innocent and pure creatures that had to spend their lives at home and depended on the men M members of the upper classes used to hide the fact that they indulged in forbidden' activities and desires, such as prostitution, opium, drinking and gambling, but at the same time they supported this moralizing trend: this brought to an atmosphere of hypocrisy which is quite difficult to make out the border between the true and falsity, real intent ions and hidden opinions.The author of ââ¬ËThe Strange Case Of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' Is Robert Louis Stevenson. He was extremely Interested in the theme of duality. Stevenson was a Scottish novelist, poet, essayist and travel writer. He was born on November 13th 1850 and died on December 3rd 1894. To understand fully where Stevenson was brought up, its necessary to understand that there are two parts of Edinburgh, on one side there is New Town, which is posh, respectable, religious and polite.On the other side of Edinburgh, It's more to the dark and lald- ack style and the society is classed very low. These two aspects contrast each other and make a deep impression of his fascination of duality in the human nature. Stevenson suffered from nightmares and had numerous health problems. One of his childhood nightmares Inspired him to write about ââ¬ËDr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde this Is because he believes that there Is good and evil In every character. The theme of duality runs throu ghout the whole book and is revealed in several aspects.
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
The Cuban Missle Crisis Essays - Soviet UnionUnited States Relations
The Cuban Missle Crisis Essays - Soviet UnionUnited States Relations The Cuban Missle Crisis The world will never be the same since October of 1962. It is now known as the Cuban Missile Crisis. The U.S. learned that the Soviets were building nuclear missile bases on Cuba because the Soviets wanted to close the missile gap. Even though the Soviet Union promised they would not attempt to place nuclear weapons in Cuba, they put them there anyway in hopes that the U.S. would not find out until it was too late to do anything about it. The ploy almost worked. The nuclear bases were very near completion when a U.S. U-2 spy plane discovered the bases. The world held its breath as these events unfolded before their eyes; If any decision had have been different, it might have led to WW III. That is not a very comforting thought, knowing that we were so close to a nuclear holocaust. Many believe Kennedy made the right decision, I ! stand with that group; Others believe we should have conducted surgical strikes against the bases to show we would not tolerate a threat that close to our own shores. Kennedy was probably cautious about strikes because of the Bay of Pigs invasion which had failed so miserably just a year before. The Bay of Pigs invasion was an attempt by the U.S. to remove Castro from office. We armed and trained about 2000 Cuban exiles for this job. The hope was that a general uprising would begin, and Castro would be removed from office by his own people and not by any United States personnel. What cost the success of the mission was that the U.S. neglected to provide air cover for the troops. Of the 2000 troops, 300 were killed and the rest were taken prisoner. Evidently, Kennedy did not want another Bay of Pigs, so he elected to try a naval! blockade. He must have made the right choice, because we are still here today. An advantage that the U.S.S.R. had if we had not found the missile bases in time, would have been the first strike capability. This does not necessarily mean the ability to strike first, needless to say, any country can do that; It means the ability to strike first and disarm the opponent at the same time. If the U.S.S.R. had active nuclear missile bases in Cuba, many Americans feared that the Soviets could make an attempt take out our air bases without our even realizing it until it was too late. In being so close to the U.S. coast, they could conduct strikes against our B-52 bases virtually undetected by our radar. This would eliminate our ability to strike back at them. Even when we realized they were attacking it would be to late to do anything. With our ability to counter attack gone, the Soviets could dictate whatever policy it wanted to the U.S., and we would have no choice but to accept their terms. If we did not, we would suffer the consequences (Smoke 36). Those consequences could be very harsh and detrimental to our society. A country that has first strike capability knows that it can start a war any time it chooses. On the other hand, a country that knows that they are not capable of first strike, will not be as willing to start a war. This was the problem we had encountered in Cuba. We believed that the placing of Soviet missiles inside of Cuba's borders would give them this first strike ability. In our eyes, that seriously endangered our national security. So we decided that we must either eliminate the threat, or have them withdraw all nuclear materials from their bases in Cuba (36-37). Richard Smoke, the author of Nuclear Arms Control: Understanding the Arms Race, sees the Soviets as a people who tried every option possible to get every advantage that they could. Khrushchev believed that putting nuclear missiles in Cuba was the most expedient way to close the missile gap with the United States. In Smoke's opinion, they were willing to risk WW III in order to obtain first strike capability. As he says, the plan almost worked, but a U.S. U2 spy plane discovered the secret bases
Monday, October 21, 2019
Animosity and Affirmative Action
Animosity and Affirmative Action Affirmative Action are two words that can bring up an emotional debate on the validity of this policy. Affirmative Action are measures taken to allow minorities equal rights when it comes to being hired for a job or being promoted within a job. As its intended, Affirmative Action means that people from a particular group should enjoy special consideration or benefits when it comes to job placement. Im going to use firefighting as an example. Affirmative Action is the cause of difficulties in the firefighting hiring process. Because of the large number of minority applicants, including woman, getting hired as a firefighter is becoming increasingly difficult to accomplish for the white male because of the outdated Affirmative Action policy. As with many other outdated policies, Affirmative Action should be re-evaluated and possibly dismissed.Because our country is becoming so diverse, it is increasingly more difficult for companies, such as fire departments, who seek qualified employee s to maintain the Affirmative Action guidelines.Affirmative actionThere are just as many, if not more minorities in this country now than when Affirmative Action was established back in 1962. This policy is increasing the difficulties of hiring as many white male applicants than minority applicants.One example why Affirmative Action should be re-considered or dismissed is safety. Safety is the most important factor when training a firefighter. The civil service exam exists to evaluate the thinking process of applicants when it comes to safety among other things; therefore, someone who scores low on this exam could be compromising the safety of other firefighters on the job. Because fire departments have to hire one minority for every white male, they are forced to hire minority applicants who score a 72 percent on the exam versus white male applicants who score 100 percent. The result of hiring...
Sunday, October 20, 2019
How to Use a My Service Canada Account
How to Use a My Service Canada Account The My Service Canada Account (MSCA) is available from Service Canada, the federal department charged with delivering a wide variety of government services. The account provides secure online access to view and update your personal information on Employment Insurance (EI), the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and Old Age Security (OAS). How to Obtain an Access Code Before you can register for a My Service Canada Account, you need an access code- either an EI access code if you are applying for EI benefits or a Personal Access Code, which you must request. The four-digit EI Access Code is printed in the shaded area on the benefit statement mailed to you after you apply for Employment Insurance. To request a seven-digit Personal Access Code (PAC), read the information on the Request a Personal Access Code page. Read and print the Privacy Notice Statement for your records. Select continue, provide the following information, and submit your: Social Insurance NumberFirst nameLast nameDate of birthMothers maiden namePostal code and address information It will take fiveà to 10 days to receive your PAC by mail. Once you have an access code, you can register for a My Service Canada Account online. How to Register and Log In At the MSCA website, you can choose between logging in with CGKey using a Government of Canada User ID and password or using credentials you may already have with a Sign-In Partner, such as those you use for online banking. When you use a Sign-In Partner, Service Canada will not share personal information with the partner about the government services you access and the partner will not provide personal information it holds to Service Canada during the login process. Service Canada will not know which partner you are using. If you are a first-time user, follow the registration instructions to complete the sign-up process before logging in. GCKey Registration First, read and accept the terms and conditions. Be prepared to: Create a User IDCreate recovery questions, answers, and hintsCreate and confirm a password Sign-In Partner Registration Read and agree to the terms and conditionsSelect a Sign-In Partner Employment Insurance (EI) Once you are logged in, you can use the My Service Canada Account tool to view your electronic Records of Employment (ROEs) and information on your EI claim, including your weekly benefit rate, the start and end date of your claim, the start and end of your waiting period, your allowable earnings, the number of weeks you will be entitled to receive EI benefits, the number of weeks of EI benefits you have already received, payment dates, and details about payment deductions. This account tool also allows you to: View information on past EI claimsSubmit an Absence From Canada formSubmit a Course or Training formPrint your T4E tax slip for EI benefits to use when filing your income tax returnStart or stop the mailing of your T4E tax slipsRegister to pay EI premiums on your self-employment incomeChange your address or telephone informationSign up for direct deposit or change your banking information Canada Pension Plan (CPP) The My Service Account allows you to view information about your Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefits and view and print your CPP Statement of Contributions. You can also use this tool to: Get an estimate of your CPP retirement benefitsPrint your T4A(P) tax slip for CPP benefits to use when you file your income taxesStart or stop the mailing of your T4A(P) tax slipsChange your address or telephone information (some exceptions apply)Sign up for direct deposit or change your banking information Old Age Security (OAS) Information on Old Age Security (OAS) benefits is also available in the My Service Account. The details of your benefits- including payment dates and monthly amounts- is found here. The tool also allows you to: Print your T4A (OAS) tax slip for OAS income for your income tax returnChange your address or telephone information (some exceptions apply)Sign up for direct deposit or change your banking information Questions and Assistance If you have difficulty using the My Service Canada Account tool, visit the nearest Service Canada Office. Experienced government personnel will be available to answer questions and provide assistance.
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Burke's Distinction and Public Representation Article
Burke's Distinction and Public Representation - Article Example Although public opinion is downplayed in this relationship, it certainly has its place in terms of public representation simply because the electorate must feel placated. The primary role of a public representative is, however, to understand the difference between opinion and interest, and to legislate with the best interests of the people in mind. Public representatives must work to find a balance between the focus of opinion and interest. Edmund Burke described the mentality of human society as being based on two basic principles: the people's interests and the people's opinions. These have been the foundation of Burke's Distinction, a theoretical framework of behaviour that has been used to study economics and politics as they pertain to public will and necessity. Burke's Distinction refers to the distinct forces of both interest and opinion, and describes how these forces relate to one another in terms of human character and motivation (Gargarella, 2001, 13). Burke's reference to people's interests is his idea that political or economic change will come as a result of successful government that understands the basic difference between whim and necessity. ... existence and unrestricted by conscious efforts, public interest has always been and will always remain fundamentally the same in that it must be addressed for survival purposes (Stanlis, 1958, 179). Public interest, in Burke's view, is therefore distinguished from public opinion because of its almost autonomous status (Hoffman et al, 1956, 177). Whether Burke's Distinction is called upon to analyse politics or economics, the force of public interest is always the scientific factor involved in the analysis. This is important because proper scientific breakdown can show how public interest is different from public opinion quickly and easily; although often the motivations behind the two are the same, Burke's Distinction shows which issues demand the attention of a governing body and which may simply be trendy at the time. Public opinion subsequently can be used to represent not only the popular opinion of a community but often the result of mass misinformation. According to Burke, popular opinion is very often cultivated from small truths which are stretched and skewed to an unrecognisable state upon which people then begin to make judgements (Somerset and Burke, 1957, 89). This can relate to international affairs, internal issues, economy, political systems themselves and virtually any facet of public or private life. Burke doesn't necessarily suggest that group mentality is fundamentally different than individual mentality; he simply points out that what can in one person's mind be an issue worth gathering more information about becomes an escalated, un-researched issue in the hands of an entire society at once. While public representatives need to always keep an eye on public opinion (after all, public opinion equates to the outcome of an election)
Importance of music in the film Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words
Importance of music in the film - Research Paper Example This "Importance of music in the film" essay, outlines purposes of the usage of music in movie industrie. The integration of music in the film industry has a long history that dates back to the early 20th century, the same time when the digital technology was evolving in this field. The first form of film with music was the Al Jolson which was launched in the 1927, a film that hit across the world for its presumed appeal. This formed a new opening that many film makers saw as an invention of the art, and an opening to a new era of ââ¬Å"talkieâ⬠movies. In 1930, the filmmakers had already started to use movies as the preludes of their movie to set the atmosphere of the movie. This quick adoption of the use of music in the industry can be attributed to the appeal that the music was already earning from the public. By 1942, music was becoming an avoidable ingredient in the films with more pronounced songs with a wide range of themes. One of the movies in this time was the Casabla nca movie by Max Steiner that includes the French and German National anthems to bring out the spirit of nationality within the theme. As the music found its way into the films, more people found their way to the theatre as music was already becoming an attractive element in the movie industry. Patterson (2013) points to a number of special requirements that demanded for the inclusion of music from different genres in the film industry. The post war films allured to patriotism by including patriotic songs in the films.... As the music found its way into the films, more people found their way to the theatre as music was already becoming an attractive element in the movie industry. Patterson (2013) points to a number of special requirements that demanded for the inclusion of music from different genres in the film industry. For instance, the post war films such as the ââ¬Å"The Dam Bustersâ⬠which was launched by Eric Coates allured to patriotism by including patriotic songs in the films. In some other movies, the films were based on the music, which was achieved by creating pictures after the music. A good example is Disneyââ¬â¢s Fantasias that was created in this manner. In the 1970s, more people were able to match the music genre with themes that they wanted to convey in the film. For instance, John Carpenter used a repetitive song in his movie ââ¬Ëthe Halloweenââ¬â¢ which is highly regarded for its effective matching of music with the theme of the film. Patterson regards this as the p eriod in which music was inspired by the movie, a time when music and film were inseparable. Today, film scoring has featured into the optimization of human minds and the music industry and film industry have converged to optimize their productions. In this era, music is used to create more than just the theme but also to be part of entertainment, the film story line and to draw the emotions of the public into the theme of the film (Paterson, 2013: Scaruffi, 2005). With the evolution of technology, more film makers have an option to make more tracks recording to form both parts of the movie as well as the background sounds. In this time, critics have also risen up to condemn the inclusion of more than necessary music in the film
Friday, October 18, 2019
Reaction Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2
Reaction Paper - Essay Example For example, an increase in revenues translates to the decline in the average unemployment rate. Next, the economic environment indicates an increase in the employment statistics translates to higher demand for houses, raising the average price of houses. Two take-aways. I have gained a firm inside on the economic principle of supply and demand. As the demand for the companyââ¬â¢s products increase, the company can hire additional employees to fill the needs of the growing customers. As the employment increases, there is a corresponding increase in the demand for several goods and services. To supply the increasing demand, more news companies crop up. Further, my thoughts focus on the economic principle of supply and demand. To set up a business, I must first find a demand. Next, I will supply the products or services that will fill the customersââ¬â¢ requests. As the sales catapult to more profitable levels, I have to hire more workers to fill the increasing customersââ¬â¢ needs and wants. This is the essence of the economic supply and demand theory. A company that does not generate profits will be forced to close shop. Consequently, the retrenched employees will join the current long line of unemployment list. Reading 2: Shelley Kimelberg, ââ¬Å"Inside the growth Machine: Real Estate Professionals on the Perceived Challenges of Urban Development Shelley McDonough Kimelberg , City & Community, 20 (2011): p 76-99 Reference Summary. The above article states that the growth machine framework proposes that the cooperative efforts of the elites significantly contribute implementation of policies and processes that contribute to the local communityââ¬â¢s economic growth. The research focused on the real estate professionals. The findings include some constraints to full economic development. The constraints include reelection of the local politicians, municipal development officersââ¬â¢ economic priorities,
Assess the Value of Formal Investment Appraisal Techniques Essay
Assess the Value of Formal Investment Appraisal Techniques - Essay Example The central themes of all three writers under review have therefore been to look into how best practices in formal investment start up have been adhered to; particularly with the cases of acquisition of venture capital. Below, there is a detailed discussion of the three themes of the essay as presented from the perspectives of the three writers. Formal Investment Appraisal as Part of a Businesss Plan (Ashmalla et al.) Ashamalla, Orife and Abel (2008) who pointed to venture capital as a formal investment type in todayââ¬â¢s contemporary world, they point to the designing of business plans as the most viable formal investment appraisal to use to secure venture capital and also assess the progress of the ventures that come out of the venture capital investment. Ashamalla, Orife and Abel (2008 p. 385) take the meaning of formal investment from the perspective of venture capital. The writers therefore undertake exclusive research on how business owners perceive venture capital and how they go about the subject. The writers explain that venture capital is an aspect of formal investment whereby business owners and investors seek for source of funding to start up their businesses and ventures. This is has indeed been an ongoing phenomenon in contemporary business setting for a very long time. Primarily, investors and entrepreneurs seek for capital to start up their businesses because of the belief they have always had in their abilities to make revenues, amass profits and pay off the sources of their capital. Because the search for capital to start up any venture results in an eventual amassment of wealth, Ashamalla, Orife and Abel (2008, p. 386) regard the practice as an important investment pattern in contemporary business scenarios. Generally, investments are undertaken to make profits. To this extent, the writer agrees with Ashamalla, Orife and Abel (2008) on this point that venture capital is now regarded as an important source of formal investment for business owners and investors. The writer however criticizes the situation whereby investors have to look for other form of funds to pay off their debts. This is because it is not always certain that the ventures they start will be profitable. The writers therefore collected data on how different respondents who were all business oriented personnel viewed and envisioned the use of business plan as an appraisal technique. In the larger sense, there were several respondents who agreed to the importance of business plans in helping investors secure venture capital. The reason given by such respondents has to do with the fact that business plans helps the creditors in assessing the real strategies and visions of the capital seekers. In this way, the capital seekers are put in a better position to convince creditors that they have put enough plans in place to pay off the debts should it be granted. There were respondents who also held the view that business plans are only cosmetic and that they do not actually raise the chances of capital seekers of securing capital. From the estimation of the writer, an investor who has not started a venture yet could have nothing more tangible in proofing his lot than a business plan. Business plans are there very important appraisal techniqu
Thursday, October 17, 2019
THE Chain of Command Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
THE Chain of Command - Research Paper Example However, the principles and theories formulated during the first quarter of 20th century are still being used as the base of each new management model. This paper mainly highlights the principle of chain of command which was first presented by Henri Fayol in 1916. The paper deals with the significance of chain of command, the historical perspective described by different writers, and its effectiveness in organizations. An intentional attempt has been made to generalize the concept of chain of command in all fields of life. Although the term is mostly used in military perspective, however, the paper is not found stuck to military organizations only. The application of chain of command and its effectiveness has been discussed in context of both military and civil organizations. In the concluding remarks, the concept of chain of command has been analyzed critically along with few recommendations. Change of Command In a military perspective, the chain of command is a specific communicati on and interactive procedure, in the line of authority plus responsibility in which orders are conveyed in a military unit and other concerning different units. Generally orders are disseminated out by a higher hierarchy i.e. a commissioned officer to the lower-ranked personnel who after receiving the orders execute the same to further lower personnel. Thus the orders are carried out to all those who are supposed to be executed. Generally, in military orders are given to instant subordinates in the chain of command while lower ranked personnel get the orders only from those who are their immediate seniors. No service member is allowed to appeal for any relief to a commander above his immediate officer and the failure is dealt with disciplinary action. Although, military officers are authorized to give orders to any of their under command subordinates, however, they are expected to communicate their orders only to their immediate juniors. In any organization, military, civil, or priv ate, chain of command is actually an official streak of authority, control, and responsibility. The chain of command is well described through a sorted out organizational chart which identifies the superior authorities and their subordinates as well as the possible ways of communications and relationships between them. The classical theory of organization highlights the importance of human relations, organizational effectiveness, and overall management. These aspects construct an organizational structure which allows one to ascertain the lines of authority and command and ensures lucid task of his responsibilities (Alajloni et al, 2010). The principle of unity of command is maintained by following the proper chain of command along with apparent interaction with specific authority. According to Fayol (1916), this principle means that each lower ranked subordinate must receive orders from one and only one person. This minimizes any kind of confusions, doubts, and conflicts as various bosses lead to divide the responsibilities. In military perspective, the rule of unity of command is very significant because violation of this rule leads to jeopardize of overall discipline and may also result in instability of the whole unit. In his historical book ââ¬ËGeneral and Industrial Managementââ¬â¢, Fayol also stated the scalar chain principle. This principle describes that authority and responsibility flow, one level at a time, in a vertical line from the highest level in an organization to its lowest level and thus establishes an organization's hierarchy. For Duncan (1979), the disregard of chain of command without proper disposal is a management error; however, he tolerates it provided the chain of comm
Metro H and Res Marketing Plan Extending To India Essay
Metro H and Res Marketing Plan Extending To India - Essay Example According to the paper findingsà the company will do well after a fruitful market research that will identify the strong areas to invest in. India has wide global market that records a high growth rate over the last few years with its GDP rising to 9%. Its rapid growth has ranked it third amongst the fastest growing economies (Shanker & De, 2011). Indiaââ¬â¢s population is tremendous with a population that is growing above 1.2 billion. The high population creates a good market for the Metro H and Res Company. Industrial growth is also recommendable in India as there are lots of established industries and many more growing. The hospitality industry is one of the leading economic segments that contribute largely to the national income.As the discussion highlights the tourism sector which encompasses the hospitality industry contributes about 6.23% of the GDP. The vast tourism industries thus create an opportunity for the company to establish its business.à The business plans aim s at attracting the hotel operators as well as have direct sales to potential customers. Indiaââ¬â¢s population comprises of a large proportion of the young people in the bracket of 15 to 29 years. The company establishing its location in the towns will be of great advantage as the country is facing a trend in which people are migrating to urban regions. The people will thus be close to the companyââ¬â¢s product creating a better market for the company.... The hospitality industry is one of the leading economic segments that contribute largely to the national income (Hospitality India, 2013). The tourism sector which encompasses the hospitality industry contributes about 6.23% of the GDP. The vast tourism industries thus create an opportunity for the company to establish its business. Primary Data. An interview was conducted with a few hotel chain agents in India and they participated in answering questions about their opinions on the Metro H and Res Company and its operations. They also discussed the trends of the company, its recent developments and how these were relevant to its development and status in the Indian market. 2.1 Customers The business plans aims at attracting the hotel operators as well as have direct sales to potential customers. Indiaââ¬â¢s population comprises of a large proportion of the young people in the bracket of 15 to 29 years. These age brackets comprise of the energetic persons with great ability to wor k and hence are likely to have to have high income which will be of benefit to the company products. The company will thus be in a position continuously selling its products without the market dying as the country is deemed to remain young over a long period of time (Shanker & De, 2011). The data below shows the population in India. Similarly, the company establishing its location in the towns will be of great advantage as the country is facing a trend in which people are migrating to urban regions. The people will thus be close to the companyââ¬â¢s product creating a better market for the company. The company will also have reduced expenses in transporting its products to the rural regions as few people are found
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
THE Chain of Command Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
THE Chain of Command - Research Paper Example However, the principles and theories formulated during the first quarter of 20th century are still being used as the base of each new management model. This paper mainly highlights the principle of chain of command which was first presented by Henri Fayol in 1916. The paper deals with the significance of chain of command, the historical perspective described by different writers, and its effectiveness in organizations. An intentional attempt has been made to generalize the concept of chain of command in all fields of life. Although the term is mostly used in military perspective, however, the paper is not found stuck to military organizations only. The application of chain of command and its effectiveness has been discussed in context of both military and civil organizations. In the concluding remarks, the concept of chain of command has been analyzed critically along with few recommendations. Change of Command In a military perspective, the chain of command is a specific communicati on and interactive procedure, in the line of authority plus responsibility in which orders are conveyed in a military unit and other concerning different units. Generally orders are disseminated out by a higher hierarchy i.e. a commissioned officer to the lower-ranked personnel who after receiving the orders execute the same to further lower personnel. Thus the orders are carried out to all those who are supposed to be executed. Generally, in military orders are given to instant subordinates in the chain of command while lower ranked personnel get the orders only from those who are their immediate seniors. No service member is allowed to appeal for any relief to a commander above his immediate officer and the failure is dealt with disciplinary action. Although, military officers are authorized to give orders to any of their under command subordinates, however, they are expected to communicate their orders only to their immediate juniors. In any organization, military, civil, or priv ate, chain of command is actually an official streak of authority, control, and responsibility. The chain of command is well described through a sorted out organizational chart which identifies the superior authorities and their subordinates as well as the possible ways of communications and relationships between them. The classical theory of organization highlights the importance of human relations, organizational effectiveness, and overall management. These aspects construct an organizational structure which allows one to ascertain the lines of authority and command and ensures lucid task of his responsibilities (Alajloni et al, 2010). The principle of unity of command is maintained by following the proper chain of command along with apparent interaction with specific authority. According to Fayol (1916), this principle means that each lower ranked subordinate must receive orders from one and only one person. This minimizes any kind of confusions, doubts, and conflicts as various bosses lead to divide the responsibilities. In military perspective, the rule of unity of command is very significant because violation of this rule leads to jeopardize of overall discipline and may also result in instability of the whole unit. In his historical book ââ¬ËGeneral and Industrial Managementââ¬â¢, Fayol also stated the scalar chain principle. This principle describes that authority and responsibility flow, one level at a time, in a vertical line from the highest level in an organization to its lowest level and thus establishes an organization's hierarchy. For Duncan (1979), the disregard of chain of command without proper disposal is a management error; however, he tolerates it provided the chain of comm
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
Science project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Science project - Essay Example To understand that, we first need to understand what makes such materials into magnets. At the atomic level, materials that exhibit strong magnetic susceptibility have unpaired electrons in their electronic shells. These unpaired electrons all have a certain spin direction associated with them. Due to this spin, and the revolution of electrons around the nucleus, electrons generate their own magnetism. As all the electrons spin in the same direction for a certain nucleus, their magnetic field directions are also the same. So these magnetic fields add up and give the whole atom a net magnetic field (Mohammad et al., 2003; Rajendran, 2004). When these atoms are subjected to a magnetic field, they align themselves with the applied magnetic field. When the magnetic field is removed, some of these atoms remain aligned with the magnetic field. These regions where the magnetic field of the atoms is aligned in the same direction are known as domains (Saleemi et al, 2002). For ferromagnetic materials, a net magnetic field is always present. The maximum magnetism that a ferromagnetic material may retain in the absence of an external magnetic field is known as its saturation magnetization. This is an important property which changes when we change the temperature of the magnetic material (Callister, 2007). There is an important factor which dictates the ease with which atoms align with each other to form domains under the effect of an external magnetic field ââ¬â the thermal agitation of the atoms. Atoms vibrate and have energy associated with their vibration. This vibration increases as the temperature of the material increases. As the atomic vibration/agitation increases, it becomes harder for these atoms to be forced to be aligned in a certain direction, and vice versa. So, if we apply the same amount of external energy through a
Monday, October 14, 2019
Cooking for chumps Essay Example for Free
Cooking for chumps Essay What is one skill you can use all your life, no matter what career you end up in? Cooking is a fundamental skill that benefits life in all aspects! Engineers need food, Scientists need food, stay-at-home moms need food, even people with no career need food. Its a necessity of life! That is why I choose to learn cooking as my skill for my learning project. I have learned so much over the past few weeks that I will never forget. Cooking is not just about throwing something together, its a real learn-able skill. Cooking is a skill that never really appealed to me. I always had someone to cook for me. However, Im growing up. There is not always going to be someone there to cook my meals. So I thought I should learn how to do it my self. I never know how fun and rewarding cooking could be. It is an awesome feeling to cook for someone or even your self and have the meal or dish turn out exactly how you want it. Especially if you donââ¬â¢t burn it! Before I could even start cooking I needed to learn a little bit more about the skill. I did some research, looked up terms and asked my family to tell me what they thought I should know. This is when I got one of the best pieces of advice I could have ever gotten. ââ¬Å"If it doesnââ¬â¢t turn out right the first time, or you mess up donââ¬â¢t get discouraged and feel free to experiment! â⬠This came from my family. This piece of advice is really what kept me going through this project. When I would want to mess up they would remind me of why I was doing this and the rewards I would get for completing it. They were right, if I had given up I wouldnââ¬â¢t have the skill I have now. I wouldnââ¬â¢t be able to cook for myself. It doesnââ¬â¢t always turn out perfect, but life isnââ¬â¢t about being perfect. Its about doing what makes you happy and doing your best at it. I have a variety of recipes that I choose to make for this Learning Project. Each recipe was chosen for a reason. I choose to make the MM cookies because they were my favorite cookies as a child. I wanted to be able to carry on the tradition of my family in my future. These cookies are quick, easy and delicious. Next I choose Sausage Gravy and Biscuits. This recipe is just an all around classic. Everyone loves it and its easy and pretty cheap to make. However, the biscuits did give me some trouble! This recipe taught me that until I am more comfortable with what Im making I need to follow a recipe and not try to guess proportions! Next I made the dish that was just for me. I love honey and garlic, so I decided to make the chicken. It was really simple, but I got distracted and I burnt the chicken. I quickly remembered it before it was to burnt. It still tasted pretty good. Next I made dinner for my whole family. I made roast beef. It was really easy and good. For my final recipe I wanted to share something with the whole class. So I made a chocolate pie. This was one of the most difficult dishes I made. It involved so many terms that I didnââ¬â¢t know had anything to do with cooking. It required me to learn different techniques and follow a recipe exactly. I hope it was worth all the trouble! Its sitting in my fridge waiting for our presentation time! Ive never had to do a project like this before and it took me forever to choose my topic. I kept thinking and thinking and I finally came up with cooking. My family at first disagreed with me saying that it wasnââ¬â¢t really a skill. But think about it, how many teenage boys can cook a really good meal for himself or anyone else I really wanted to be able to do something not many other boys like me could do. There is actually a lot of knowledge needed to be a good cook. There are hundreds of different terms that you need to have an understanding of in order to make a successful cook. One term that confused me was ââ¬Å"cut in. â⬠I was trying to mix some butter into sugar with a knife, needless to say it wasnââ¬â¢t working. The recipe didnââ¬â¢t really want me to cut anything. It just wanted me to cream the butter and sugar together with a pastry blender (which isnââ¬â¢t really a blender at all)! Like I said if you donââ¬â¢t know the terms you could really mess up a recipe. Another big thing you need to know to be a successful cook is the techniques need to make a certain dish. For instance if I donââ¬â¢t know how to hand knead dough then I cant make homemade bread. If I donââ¬â¢t know how to make a mousse then I couldnââ¬â¢t make a chocolate pie. Thank goodness that there are multiple websites and resources that help you to understand and get help perfecting these techniques. In conclusion cooking is a very useful skill that everyone needs to know even a little bit about. I am so glad that I choose to study and learn about this skill. It is such an easy and rewarding skill to learn that I donââ¬â¢t know why everybody cant be a good cook if they try to be. However, it is much easier if you have someone who has experience to help you!
Sunday, October 13, 2019
Case Report On British Airways Ba Management Essay
Case Report On British Airways Ba Management Essay The fast changing technological advancement and unpredictable economic situation are forcing businesses to respond quickly to adapt to change. Failure to manage change will cause organisation lose its competitiveness and disappear from the market. In order to meet the challenge, British Airways has to review their development approaches, especially those related to the organisational behaviour, structure, culture and other human resource issues. The organisations vision of being worlds global premium airline can only be sustained and supported through continual review and improvements in the aspects mentioned. It is important to note that the change in the organisation is very much related to the role of managers in developing strategy. Though there is a pressing need for the organisation to undergo change, peoples need should not be sacrificed. This report aids the improvement process in British Airways by providing discussion on the key frameworks in the HRM issues and recommendati ons for future. 2.0 Introduction This is a report for the management of British Airways Plc which present, analyze and evaluate the change management issues in the organisation. Factors such as organisational structure, behaviour, culture and technology, political and social aspects as well as economic strengths and weaknesses are made throughout the whole report. It is hoped that this report would provide an insight to the human resource activities for future improvement. 3.0 Organisations Strategic Plan 3.1 Organisations Background British Airways Plc (BA) has a long history beginning from the launching of words first schedule air service by its forerunner company, Aircraft Transport Travel Limited (AT T) on 1919. In 1924, Britains four airlines merged to form Imperial Airways Limited. Later in the 1930s, some smaller UK air transport companies started their operations and merged to form the original privately-owned British Airways Limited. Following a government review in 1939, these two companies were then nationalized and formed the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC). BOAC, together with a new airline, British European Airways (BEA) were the main British operators in the industry in the 1950s. However, these two separate airlines eventually merged to form British Airways in 1974. With the execution of Civil Aviation Act 1980, the government sold its shares in British Airways and Lord King was appointed as the chairman. Many changes were carried out since then to bring British Airways to its presen t status as one of the worlds leading global premium airline (British Airways 2010). The company is principally base in London, with hubs at Heathrow, Gatwick and London city airports. Its core activities are to carry out the operation of international and domestic scheduled air passengers and cargo services. In 2009/10, the company carried nearly 32 million passengers and 760,000 tonnes of cargo to different destinations. Together with its partners, BA flies to over 300 destinations throughout the world. It also has a strong fleet operation with 238 aircrafts in service at the end of March 2010 (British Airways 2010). 3.2 Organisations Vision and Mission The companys long term vision to be the worlds leading Global Premium Airline is constantly leading the company moving towards higher achievements in the future. BA has plotted different mission statements in pursuing toward this vision. These mission statements are: Be the airline of choice for long haul premium customers Deliver an outstanding service for customers at every point of touch Build presence in key global cities Build on leading position in London Meet customers needs and improve margins through new revenue streams (British Airways 2010) 3.3 Industry Overview The aviation industry has a big global economic impact. Few key facts provide the evidence of the worldwide influence of this industry. According to Capoccitti, Khare and Mildenberger (2010: 67), more than 2.2 billion vacation and business passengers flew on the worlds airlines. Over one-third of the values of worlds manufactured exports were carried through air freight. 32 million jobs opportunities were created for people in different countries. Moreover, the aviation industry contributes nearly 8% to world gross domestic product. In general, airline industry can be divided into four categories: International companies with annual revenue of $1 billion or more National companies with annual revenue between $100 million and $ 1 billion Regional companies with short-haul flights and less than $100 million revenue Cargo companies that generally transport goods only (Investopedia 2010) Though the degree varies with the category that an airline belongs to, air companies need to cope with various complicated issues. Some of the major issues include airport capacity, route design, technology, costs to buy or lease the aircrafts, weather, fuel price, and employees (Investopedia 2010). Despite these challenges, competition remains lofty as more and more airliners enter into the market by offering cheaper prices to customers. 3.4 SWOT Analysis Figure British Airways SWOT Analysis (Euromonitor International 2011) The figure above shows the current SWOT analysis of British Airways. Further explanations are made as follow. STRENGTHS Strong Fleet Operations British Airways has a strong fleet with more than 200 aircrafts. The fleet includes Boeing 737, Boeing 747- 777, Airbus A319 and Airbus 320. Recently, the company had also ordered additional 23 new Boeing 787 to replace the current Boeing 767. These new aircrafts will join in the long haul fleet from year 2012. With such a strong fleet, the airline covers all the continents around the world (Euromonitor International 2011). Online Services British Airways also seizes the opportunity of the widespread of internet to boost its business performance. With the implementation of online services, passengers obtain the convenience to book flights, hire cars, book hotels and access travel information in a quick and safe way. This has not only greatly reduced the companys operating costs, but also help it to attract more customers (Euromonitor International 2011). WEAKNESSES Labor Dispute The dispute over pay and condition of its cabin crew has caused an industrial action to take place in 20-22 March and 27-30 March 2010 (Euromonitor International 2011). The strikes held by Unite, which represents about 25,000 workers at British Airways, had incurred more than à £150 million loss to the company in year 2010. Poor Brand Image Apart from the above incident, the chaos that happened during the opening of Heathrow Terminal 5 airport also diminished the companys brand image. Cancellations, delays of flights and lost of baggages had led to huge disappointment on many loyal customers. This weaken the companys competitive advantage and loss many businesses to its rival. Poor Performance in All Geographic Regions Due to global financial crisis and high fuel prices, British Airways has a poor performance in all its geographic regions. The business revenues in its largest geographic market had decreased 12.9% in March 2010. The sales in its second largest market, America had also shown a decline of 4%. It is concerned that the continuity of such performance would lead to business collapse in no time (Euromonitor International 2011). THREATS Disrupt Operation With the unstable restructuring and changes policies, British Airways faces strong opposition from its workforce. The extension of labour dispute into future will continue to disrupt the companys normal operation. Huge amount of time and money will have to be spent on devising contingency plans to resolve the issues. Increased Competition Poor management strategies in handling labour dispute and the opening of Terminal 5 makes the company vulnerable to its rivals. Better offers made by competitors such as Virgins, Ryan Air and Easyjet will cause British Airways losses its premium passengers. Bankruptcy Poor performance in all geographic regions increases the risk of bankruptcy in BA. OPPORTUNITIES Reward Packages/Employee Relations Opportunities to offer better reward packages and to improve employee relations can be identified in the case of British Airways labour dispute. The restructuring and changes process will get into a better shape if two ways communication is to be built up. Monitor Operational Performance British Airways is currently monitoring its customer views on the Think Customer Survey (British Airways 2010). This offer great opportunity for the organisation to improve its business performance as it can find solution to improve its departure punctuality, which is one of the main concerns of the passengers. Merger Agreement with Iberia The entering into a merger agreement with Spanish airway Iberia offers opportunity for BA to step into Latin America market. This merger will also save the airline à £350 million a year (BBC 2010). 4.0 HRM Issues 4.1 Leadership and Management The terms leadership and management have been used interchangeably by many people. In fact, these two terms denotes two different meanings. From a general point of view, leadership can be defined as a relationship through which one person influences the behaviour or actions of other people. Management, on the other hand, is usually defines as getting things done through other people in order to achieve stated organisational objectives (Mullins 2010: 373). A major study of the nature of leadership has been developed by a political scientist, James MacGregor Burns in 1978. Burns states that organisation states can be categorized into two convergent (stable condition) and divergent (dynamic condition). He contends that the best approach for the convergent state is the transactional management style. The managers will aim at completing tasks, achieving companys goal, and striving for the companys performance through gradual changes (Burnes 2009: 498). On the other hand, transformational leaders are most appropriate in the divergent state. They will introduce radical change and use the influence of their personality to gain the trust and commitment of their followers (Burnes 2009: 499). The figure below shows Burns theory on leadership. Figure Burns Contextual Approach to Leadership (Burnes 2009: 499) Along with Burns theory, the diagram below also shows the distinctive activities between managers and leaders (Burnes 2009: 492). In fact, in real life situation, leaders need to possess both transactional and transformational characteristics, depending on the circumstances. Figure Distinct Activities between Managers and Leaders (Burnes 2009: 492) In relation to the theories above, BAs present Chief Executive Officer, Willie Walsh is considered to be a manager rather than a leader. This can be seen from the way he transformed his former company Aer Lingus, a nearly bankrupt airline into one of the most profitable one in Europe by cutting one-third of its workforce using the power of his position (The Independent Business 2011). This action had caused him to win an uncomplimentary nickname Slasher Walsh, thus revealing his sturdy personality trait. Partly because of this, he was attracted into the board of BA (The Wall Street Journal 2011). However, as the company is in a dynamic state, the transactional characteristic that Willie Walsh possessed is seemed to be unsuitable. In the dispute with the Unite Union, Willie Walsh is entirely focused on the present organisations need reduce costs but ignored the need to create a culture of shared value in the long run. His managerial approach will only enable him to carry out his du ty and fail to gain followers. The management should realize that the pressing need of British Airways is to have leader who is capable to win trust and support from its members in order to implement change. 4.2 Organisational Structure In order to ensure the organisation meets its goals and objectives, organisation usually has a formal structure to divide the work and responsibilities. This formal structure is presented in the organisation chart. Different roles and relationships are incorporated in this process to direct, control and carry out the tasks and activities (Armstrong 2009: 365). People in these groups are usually bound by certain formal rules, relationship and norms of behaviour. Formal work group can be differentiated by basis of membership, tasks to be performed, nature of technology or positions within the organisations and etc. (Mullins 2010: 311). Though the formal groups are planned and created by management, informal structure will also arise during the day-to-day interactions of the staffs. Unlike the formal structure which is based on a defined role, the informal groups are based more on friendships. The goal is to satisfy psychological and social needs rather than achieving the tasks (Mullins 2010:312). Both formal and informal groups are crucial as the formation can contribute to the enhancement of work performance. The higher the group cohesiveness, the more likely they can progress in the stages of group development and form teams. However, tasks at team level require higher level of coordination, control and trust. From the organisational chart in Figure 4 below, it can be seen that the division of work in the organisation is based on individuals different tasks and functions, such as sales and marketing, engineering, investments and etc. This institution is important as members tend to follow the established values and norms of behaviours. However, as group size increase, it will increase the difficulty for managers to handle. In general, group cohesiveness is hard to achieve when a group exceeds 10-12 members. Absenteeism, conflict over incentive payment and differences in opinions are some of the normal phenomena that can be seen in a group. Therefore, groups should be divided into sub-groups when the numbers go beyond 12 (Mullins 2010: 315). Managers should also be sensitive on the balance of work performance and social interactions in the informal groups. Sometimes, groups may be inclined toward social processes and spend too much time talking rather than working (Mullins 2010:314). Managers therefore need to be capable to observe and create a better climate in the groups. Figure British Airways Organisational Structure (The Official Board 2010) 4.3 Organisational Culture Organisational culture plays an important role to bring in change in organisation. According to Armstrong (2009:384), organisational culture is the unspoken ways that shape the ways in which people in organisations behave and things get done. Drennan (1992) also defines culture as typical of the organisation, the habits, the prevailing attitudes, and the grown-up pattern of accepted and expected behaviour (Brown 1998: 8). One of the factors that formed the organisational culture is the influence of visionary leaders. British Airways had undergone many waves of culture change since late 70s. Under the leadership of Collin Marshall, the companys chief executive during 1983, the company was transformed from a disastrous loss-making company into a profit-making world class organisation. He introduced Putting People First program and had successfully overturned the atmosphere in the organisation. He challenged the hierarchical and militaristic culture that existed at that time by asking the staffs not to wear uniform to work. He also constantly motivated the staffs to have positive attitudes in themselves, set personal goals and dealing with stress. Members of the organisation are very much encouraged by the families atmosphere promoted during that period (Irena and Adrian 2002). British Airways experienced few more restructuring processes in the hands of different leaders following Collin Marshall. It is believed the organisation is also undergoing a major culture change under the current leadership of Willie Walsh. The organisational culture is changed from people-oriented to power-oriented under the management of Willie Walsh. Members in the organisation became more competitive and responsive to personality as the values and beliefs are changed. Although it cannot be concluded by saying one culture is better than the other, the culture that Willie Walsh introduced into the organisation seems to be inappropriate and hinder its performance (Armstrong 2009: 398). 4.4 Resourcing and Legal Issues Another crucial aspect to achieve the goals of the organisation is people resourcing. Organisations need to make sure they can obtain and retain the right people that can fit into their organisational and perform in a productive way. Therefore, strategies such as human resource planning, recruitment and selection, selection interviewing, selection tests, introduction to the organization and release from the organization are genuinely required to build up the strength of human aspect in the organisation (Armstrong 2001). In devising its strategy on human resource planning, British Airways has to be to be able to forecast future people needs (demand forecasting), forecast future availability of people (supply forecasting) and make plans to match supply to demand (Armstrong 2001). These require the human resource department of British Airways to have thorough understanding of both the internal and external environments of the organisation. Examples of the internal environments include sales forecast and introduction of new technology whereby instances of external environment are such like labour market condition and labour turnover (Wilson 2011). Many organisations tend to promote people from within the organisation when there are vacancies in the upper level. This resourcing policy is known as qualification driven. British Airways is not an exception to this. British Airways advertises internal vacancies to its employees and provide cross training when necessary (British Airways 2011). With the implementation of restructuring programme named Compete 2012, British Airways also encourages its people to move between functions to develop their talents and skills. This once again confirms its usual practice of promoting people internally (British Airways 2010). Despite its focus on internal promotion, British Airways does not neglect the importance of injecting talents and fresh ideas into the vein of the organisation. Its external recruitment is carried out firstly through its recruitment website, which also forms the initial selection process. Applicants are then asked to attend the assessment day. They will then be accessed through different methods such as group exercises, interviews, psychometric tests, presentations, fact-finding exercise or role play (British Airways 2011). As a global organisation, BA is renowned in its workforce diversity. This requires the organisation to comply with different laws and legislations such as Sex Discrimination Act 1975, Race Relations Act 1976 and Data Protection Act (British Airways 2011). In spite of the diversified culture image that it has built up over the years, flaws can still be seen in the way British Airways manage its people. The company was sued for indirect sex discrimination by one of its female pilot in year 2005. Jessica Starmer, BAs female pilot requested to work 50% part time to take care of her newborn baby. However, the organisation can only offered her 75% work, which was unacceptable to Starmer and will cause her to give up her favourite job. It can be seen from this case that British Airways was not ready to accommodate working mothers and possibly exclude females from its pilot. Starmer eventually won this discrimination case and British Airways had to reconsider its way of managing work life ba lance for both men and women (BBC 2005). Employees well being should constantly be examined and improved in the organisation. 4.5 Skills, Training and Development Learning, training and development processes are ways to ensure individuals and organisations can enhance their performance and meet organisations objectives. One crucial framework of understanding how people learn is the work of Kolb. Kolb suggests learning as recurring process with four stages as shown in the diagram below. Figure Kolbs Learning Style (Clark 2008) The four stages (concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualisation and active experimentation) was then categorised by Honey and Mumford as activists, reflectors, theorists and pragmatists. It is contended that activists prefer to learn by actively participate in activities, reflectors learn through observation and reflections, theorists learn best through linking their experiences with concepts and theories, and pragmatists have a preference in transferring new information to real-life situations (Pilbeam and Corbridge 2010: 357). Understanding how people learn through different HRM frameworks are crucial for British Airways to design the learning for its employees. By examining the training and learning design of British Airways, it is quite satisfactory that British Airways has provide ample training resources such as learning centres, library facilities, reference materials, audiotapes and video based learning (Job Vacancies Advice n.d.). British Airways also develops different training schemes such as Behaviour for Success, Leadership Matters and A Leader Development Portfolio (British Airways 2010). Graduate opportunities and training schemes are also provided to the students and graduates through series of interviews and selections (British Airways 2010). These shows that the organisation is concern about different learning styles of individuals and have provided different designs to match their learning needs. However, In relation to the chaotic opening of Heathrows Terminal 5, British Airways employees claimed that their failure was due to inadequate training days and the lack of essential support (BBC 2008). This incident should provide a little window for the management to realise that there is still a lack the way British Airways evaluate its employees learning activity and process. Furthermore, in dealing with the recent strike issue, British Airways is planning on training its ground staffs who have no flying experience to become cabin crews in 21 days (The Guardian 2010). This is inevitably worrying as these employees might not have appropriate knowledge, skills, and attitude to fill in the positions in such a short period. This hasty decision will only pull the company away from identifying and analysing the learning needs of its employees (Pilbeam and Corbridge 2010: 352). 4.6 Appraisal Performance appraisal is a key attribute in driving an organisation towards competitive advantage. Though it may not be unwelcomed by the participants, it nevertheless provides crucial data for efficient decision-making, identifies training needs, and set levels of reward (Gold and Bratton 2003: 250). An effective appraisal system will also help the organisations to assess their staff against companies objectives, provide opportunities for the organisation to give good feedback to employees and motivate them (Business Link 2011). Appraisal can be carried out in different forms such as top-down schemes, self-appraisal, peer appraisal, upward appraisal and multi-rater appraisal or 360-degree feedback (Pilbeam and Corbridge 2010: 323). The employees progress is monitored both informally and formally in British Airways. Informally, the staffs will have to discuss with their manager about their performance and formally, they will need to go through an annual performance review (British Airways 2011). This top-down appraisal system is designed to encourage continuous improvement in employees performance and behaviour. However, it is questionable whether the appraisal is effective. Due to the linkage of appraisal with pay in British Airways, employees might be reluctant to openly discuss their problems at work with their line managers. Issues such as preferential treatment and lack of partiality may also invalidate the effort taken. Though immediate manager are inevitably in the best position to appraise employee performance, consideration should be given to evaluate performance through peer appraisal or multi-rater appraisal (Pilbeam and Corbridge 2010: 323). 4.7 Coaching and Mentoring According to Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIDP) (2010), coaching is a process to develop an individuals skills and knowledge in order to improve their work performance. Though it may involve the employees private life, the target is on achieving specific skills and goals. Mentoring, which is a method to transfer the knowledge, skills and experience in the challenging workplace, is often used interchangeably with coaching. Comparing to coaching, which is conducted in a shorter period, mentoring tends to describe a long term relationship where a more experienced staff supports the progression of his inexperienced colleague. In fact, coaching and mentoring is very much linked with overall learning and development strategies. According to the 2010 Learning and development survey conducted by CIDP (2010), more than half of the participants felt that coaching is the most effective way of learning and development. British Airways has always been a great success in coaching and mentoring its employees. As mentioned earlier, British Airways embed different training resources and programs to support and sustain the development of its people. Qualified pilots who apply to the Direct Entry Pilot Scheme offered by the organisation will need to attend training courses before they are allowed to join the fleets. They will be put under the supervision of experienced training team until the completion of Line Check (British Airways 2011). This efficient coaching and mentoring thus lead the pilots into the right behaviour and work effectively. 4.8 Performance and Motivation People need to be motivated to work. In order to improve the performance, it is important for managers to motivate and encourage their staffs. Throughout the years, various schools of thoughts on motivation have been established. Some of the well known theories are McGreggors theory X and theory Y, Adams equity theory, Maslows hierarchy of needs and Herzbergs two factor theory (Wilson 2011). This section will focus only the first two theories McGreggors theory X and theory Y and Adams equity theory. A notable study conducted from 1945-1965 revealed that what employees desire the most from a job is security, following by advancement, type of work and company. This is against the common belief that money is the primary motivating factor. However, this should not send the signal to the company to reward employee inadequately (Accel-Team 2010). However, in the recent dispute with its cabin crew, it became obvious that British Airways Chief Executive, Mr. Willie Walsh is incompetent to address this idea. In this dispute concerning the cabins pay condition, Willie Walsh proves that his managerial style falls under McGreggors theory X. Unlike theory Y which encourages participative communication, Willie Walsh cultivates a downward direction communication flow from manager to subordinates (Barnett 2011). This can be seen by his act in snatching the offer of Unite union off the negotiation table in March 2010 without saying a further word (The Guardian 2010). His autocratic managerial style causes British Airways suffers heavy resistance from its employees and eventually leads to the decrease in employees morale. On the other hand, equity theory of motivation reveals the assumptions that individuals hold about what is value and worthwhile (Wilson 2011). This theory holds that a persons sense of fairness is resulting from comparison between his input-to-output ratios to the others see Figure 6 below (Business Balls 2010). According to a former British Airways crew member, the company has not treated its members with a fair view. The organisation compares its cabin crews salaries with low cost carriers such as Virgins and Easyjet. This is viewed as unreasonable since British Airways had been branded as a global premium airline. It is also found out that the organisations proposal for new fleet salaries of à £11,000 basic plus à £2.40 an hour is much lower comparing to other premium airlines such as Singapore and Emirates. Comparing to Singapore Airline (which pay not only à £20,792 to its crew, but also gives them the benefits of one months salary annual supplement plus health and pension p ackages) British Airways offer is apparently diminishing the effort of its members (The Guardian 2010). Equity theory should reminds British Airways management that its people must be managed and treated accordingly as they would compare the way they are treated with their surrounding environment (Business Balls 2010). Figure Adams Equity Theory (Business Balls 2010) 5.0 Future Directions 5.1 Change Management Plan With the fast changing global business environment, organisations have to be capable to respond quickly enough by implementing change. The chance of whether an organisation can survive is very much depending on how effective it deals with the changes such as new government policies, economic fluctuation, new competitors and etc. Changes are initiated by leaders who are clear with the organisations vision and put that vision into reality through medium term mission and deployment plan (Wilson 2010). Kotter and Schlessinger (1979) set out six approaches to manage resistance of change. These include the following: Education and communication inform people about the change effort beforehand Participation and involvement involve people in the change effort Facilitation and support provide coaching and mentoring to deal with adjustment problems Negotiation and agreement deal with resistance by offering incentives Manipulation and co-option give a leader a symbolic role in decision making without really involved in the change effort Explicit and implicit coercion force employees into accepting change by making clear that resistance can lead to losing jobs, transferring or not promoting (Value Based Management 2011) There is no one approach which out-ruled the other approaches. The suitability of the change approach is based upon the situation that an organisation is facing. Therefore, leaders have to exercise their wisdom and discernment when choosing the approach to deal with resistance. Willie Walshs tactic of using explicit and implicit coercion to manage change apparently is destructive to the organisation as it had pushed the resistance even further. As the cabin crews and the Unite union are in the position of power, it is more likely that negotiation and agreement should be applied. 5.2 Organisational Development Organisational development is defined as a process that applies behavioural science knowledge and practices to help organisations achieve g
Saturday, October 12, 2019
The Negative Impacts of the Harlem Renaissance Essay -- essays researc
The 1920ââ¬â¢s were a period or rapid growth and change in America. After World War I Americanââ¬â¢s were introduced to a lifestyle of lavishness they had never encountered before. It was a period of radical thought and ideas. It was in this time period that the idea of the Harlem Renaissance was born. The ideology behind the Harlem Renaissance was to create the image of the ââ¬Å"New Negroâ⬠. The image of African-Americanââ¬â¢s changed from rural, uneducated ââ¬Å"peasantsâ⬠to urban, sophisticated, cosmopolites. Literature and poetry abounded. Jazz music and the clubs where it was performed at became social ââ¬Å"hotspotsâ⬠. Harlem was the epitome of the ââ¬Å"New Negroâ⬠. However, things werenââ¬â¢t as sunny as they appeared. Many felt that the Harlem Renaissance itself wasnââ¬â¢t so much a celebration of Black culture, but rather a regurgitation of White ideals. To these African-Americans, the Harlem Renaissance represented conformity and s ubmission to the White culture. Yet there were also those who were not even given the opportunity to be a part of the Harlem Renaissance. The poor Blacks in the South never received any of the racial tolerance up north. They lived in a world of racism and the Ku Klux Klan. The Harlem Renaissance did not redefine African-American expression. This can be seen through the funding dependence on White Americans, the continued spread of racism and the failure to acknowledge the rights of poor Southern African-Americans. à à à à à Harlem provided a source of entertainment for many people. With its Jazz Clubs and poetry readings it was the ââ¬Å"hipâ⬠place to be. This was a shock to many African-Americanââ¬â¢s, who had never before had the opportunity to perform in such affluent surroundings. Oftentimes funding for these clubs or programs was provided by White Americans. This in itself was not a problem. However, the Harlem Renaissance became so dependant on the funding that when it stopped coming, there was no means by which to keep any of the clubs or literary cafes open. Some clubs in Harlem even discriminated against Black audience members. The popular Cotton Club, which featured solely Black performers, even went so far as to ban African-Americansââ¬â¢ from its audience entirely. Even in the Mecca of supposed racial equality, these sorts of discrimination were still prevalent. Advertisements for products produced by African-Americans were also skewed. Para... ...à à à à à The Harlem Renaissance was a time of growth and development in for African-Americans. They wrote novels, performed in clubs, and created the genre of Jazz. However, the Renaissance was imprisoned by its flaws. Rather then celebrating the unique culture of African-Americanââ¬â¢s, it oftentimes catered to what the White Americans would want to see and hear. Although racism seemed to be lower in Harlem and the Northern states, for many Blacks racism was at all time high. The Ku Klux Klan reached membership of astronomical proportions. They marched on Washington DC and handed out membership cards bashing minorities. Less educated Blacks, or those who couldnââ¬â¢t make it to Harlem, were often deemed ignorant. There was a barrier built between those Blacks with an education, and those without. And when the Great Depression hit, African Americans lost their jobs at a rate almost triple that of White Americans. Where was the equality Harlem had fought so hard f or? The Harlem Renaissance, although it did achieve some remarkable things, did not redefine African American expression. That ideal, would take many more years of strife, struggle, and segregation to achieve.
Friday, October 11, 2019
Environmental Ethics Essay
Environmental ethics falls under the discipline of environmental philosophy that studies how human beings relate to their natural environment. This is a wide study that involves a variety of other disciplines such as those that study human relationships, economics, the earthââ¬â¢s structure and biology especially ecology. Human beings being the most superior of all the living things on earth have an ethical obligation to the environment concerning the earth, air, water, other organisms and the human population, both the present and the future generation. Environmental ethics brigs up a variety of issues concerning what, when, how and why we should consider this area of study. Aspects arising include the environmentââ¬â¢s moral value, how sustainable are the policies on environmental protection, and how do these apply to the developing nations, and what policies should be put in place to ensure that the environment is safe guarded for the future generation, among others. This topic has been studied by many philosophers through the years, but it only came to be recognized as an independent discipline in 1970, due to awareness of effects of increasing human knowledge on the environment. Growing economics and populations, new technologies and development of industries all have had various adverse effects on nature, although aimed at improving life. The works of Rachael Carson, Paul Ehrlich, Aldo Leopold, among others brought about ethical concerns about the environment. Under environmental ethics, human beings have a duty towards the environment, on protection and conservation as well as having a quality life for themselves. In this context, contentious issues arise as to why we should be concerned about the environment. Should it be for us, the living human beings, the future generation, or for the environment itself regardless of our own benefits? Different personalities offer different answers to this question, hence different views have come up on environmental ethics. The issues of environmental ethics is of growing concern to the government and other institution including United Nations which have come up with incentives to people to value and appreciate nature. Earth Day which is held annually (first held in 1970) continues to create awareness and sensitize people on the value of the environment and why it should be protected. The Moral Standing We cannot handle ethics without reference to moral philosophy, which is concerned with individual behaviors and conducts. the moral standing depends on what is considered ââ¬Ërightââ¬â¢ or ââ¬Ëgoodââ¬â¢ and ââ¬Ëwrongââ¬â¢ or ââ¬Ëbadââ¬â¢ by an individual or a society. For instance, different societies have different views on areas like land and animal ownership, rights of the future generation, and many more. Personal conduct with respect to environmental ethics defines how people should interact with nature, regarding its exploitation and conservation. The moral standing of the ethical issues on environment are wholly placed on human beings as they are the only living things who can reason and decide on moral issues. Many of the environmental concerns revolve around man and how these affect him, thus the responsibility of environmental ethics should be solely manââ¬â¢s. Responsibility to the environment implies that we are aware of this task, we are able to do it, we are at liberty to do it or not, and carrying out of the task has an effect to others existing in the environment. This means that we know the damage we can cause to the environment, the effects of this damage and the prevention or solutions to these problems. This gives us a moral significance in environmental ethics, and gives us a central role. The moral standing therefore means we have the moral obligation towards nature and the capability to carry out this responsibility. When we consider environmental ethics, then, look at issues such as: â⬠¢ Should we care about nature for itself while itââ¬â¢s people who really ââ¬Å"matterâ⬠?à That is if not for human beings benefit; why else should we conserve the environment? And if depleting the natural resources is necessary for life improvement, why not exhaust it? â⬠¢ Is the loss of biodiversity, destruction of scenic geographical features for human benefit such as in agriculture so harmful to man? Where is the need to conserve a species while it has no chance of survival in the near future due to changes in earthââ¬â¢s patterns? â⬠¢ Is it right for a person to own land, it being a natural resource among others, or is it morally wrong?à Is it fair that 5% of the human population use 30% of natural resources, while in other less countries the population suffers due to lack of the basic resources such as food and clean water? Do these resources exist for the benefit of a few or should they be left free for use by all? â⬠¢ Is it possible for human beings to improve nature, seeing how man seems to have no control over nature when it comes to events such as natural calamities? â⬠¢ Do recent developments in technology relieve us of our duty of protecting the environment? For instance, does biotechnology with potential to create new species, or bring back an extinct species, relieve us of the duty to conserve the biodiversity? Or alternative sources of fuel give us a right to deplete the natural fuel reserve? â⬠¢ Should we let nature take its course as it always has or try and preserve it without assurance that this is of any benefit, or that this only hinders the course of nature? Is there any way that nature can take care of itself without our hand, like self renewal? The main issue surrounding environmental ethics today is the activist movements on environmental protection that focus people on the wrong issues, that is the moral standing is more emotional than factual or logical. The following are essential in discussing environmental ethics and policies. Western Religion and Culture It has been viewed by some philosophers that the Western religion has adversely affected the environment as it teaches that human beings have dominion over the earth and subdue it. Others view this as a command to take care of nature as we have been left in charge. The command given in the bible to the first man ââ¬Å"be fruitful and fill the earthâ⬠(Genesis 1:28, Holy Bible KJV) raises the question of population control, is it ethical for the sake of the environment or is it a direct defiance of Godââ¬â¢s command? To address this sensitive topic, religion should be understood in context. At the time of the command there was only one man on earth, so he was required to ââ¬Ëfillââ¬â¢ it, but now the earth is already ââ¬Ëfilledââ¬â¢. Is it logical to still apply the very same principles now as they did then? The culture of a people defines how they relate to and use the environment. Many of the historic events that shape the western culture have had a huge impact on the environment. Events such as the industrial revolution, technological advances and the modern culture have affected the environment. Culture can easily adapt to changing environments, as well as cause permanent change to different environments. The environment is very wide and continuous, while cultural practices are defined by the environment. Therefore it is ethical to put environment before culture, and change current lifestyles towards more nature friendly practices. The future generation Most of the damage to the environment is more likely to affect the future human population. This therefore calls on the currently living humans to consider the rights of those who are not yet born. We might not know exactly what that generation will require but we are well aware of the basic needs of living beings; food shelter and basic health. Based on these we can have a model of what the environment should offer the future human beings. Therefore it is our moral obligation to them to utilize nature as much as we need to but ensure that we do not deny them the enjoyment of the same. Animals Other animals should be considered when addressing environmental ethics, since they are sentient beings, that is are capable of feeling. Although animals come after humans, they have rights and should be considered according to what they are interested in, such as feeding, living in their natural habitat, and allowed their existence. Controversy about animal rights arises in what animals exactly should we grant rights to. For instance, are insects or other smaller animals in this category? Is it right to use animals for laboratory research for medical and other studies to better our lives? The simple answer to this question is that unless it is extremely necessary, animals should not be put at risk or in adverse conditions. The harm to animals should be justified and be limited to a certain allowable level. Ecofeminism Women are seen to be closer and more in touch with nature; this is claimed by feminists concerned with the environment (Cochrane, 2007). This is because of their ability to give life, and the fact that the earth is considered female (Shiva, 1993). Thus this gives them a better understanding of nature and how to coexist in harmony. Val Plumwood, an ecofeminist believe, that feminism should go hand in hand with environmentalism as both women and the environment are under the same oppression. Another feminist argues that the problem is in trying to justify this kind of oppression thus allowing such subordination. When considering environmental ethics and policies, the domination over women and nature is a critical issue that requires attention. Economics and Ecology Economics and ecology usually appear as counter forces. Economy involves trying to allocate the limited resources while ecology looks out to protect these resources. The ever growing human population has placed great pressure on nature and thus their distribution is highly competitive. Market forces have added more pressure to natural resources and their exploitation. Rapid growth of industries has contributed to environmental deterioration. The cost-benefit considers questions like; if nuclear power makes electricity cheaper, should this field be ventured? What is the cost of preserving a forest compared to the cost of exporting timber? These raise challenges when setting up policies on the environment because of the question of cost versus the benefit of environmental ethics. Technology Technology has had a huge impact on human life as well as on the environment. The effects of technology are both beneficial and adverse. The medical, agricultural, communication and energy industries rely heavily on technology to better human life. Technology has the power to destroy nature as well as replenish it. The technological advances that are most potentially harmful include nuclear technology that is able to annihilate nature and biotechnology which has the potential to alter the natural species boundaries. Since all technologies come with potential risks along with their benefits, ethical consideration must be made with regards to the environment. Conclusionà In studying environmental ethics, the first thing is to ask the question ââ¬Ëwhat should be done about the current environmental situation and how should it be done? ââ¬â¢ The other consideration is the importance of individual natural resources and how much effort and cost we should dedicate to protecting such. This should be based on facts and not feelings, like and dislikes. It is important that policies be based on an integrated system that has in mind all the components of nature, as well as involvement of the government, institutions and other countries.
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