Affecting Change

Change is inevitable in any organization.   There are different situations which can force an organization to change its internal organization in order to match to the changes.Change is important since it assists an organization to carry on despite the changing business environment. However, it is not that easy to carry out a change in a business organization especially when this changes touches on organizational employees.There are different hurdles to change but they can be overcome through proper management of organization resources and use of appropriate change management process.Most important, it is imperative that an organization put in place strategies to empower employees, use the appropriate management practices and initiate change in organization culture if the overall change is to succeed. Let us look at how these three factors can be used to ensure successful change implementation.Organization management practices in the 21st century assert that organizational employee s are the most important asset that determines the success or failure of the organization. A well motivated and qualified workforces from a competitive advantage for an organization which is very difficult for other organizations in the same field to replicated. It is important that employees feel as a part of the organization to function effectively.This means that if an organization wants to have a change in its operation, it must get its employees involved so that they can feel as a part of the changes. Employee resistance can affect change implementation in various ways and may finally lead to drift of change strategy (Scott et al., 2003).There are different ways to empower employees so that they can feel as a part of the change process. It is important to give them power to say yes or no at their free will and under no influence.   In order to involve employees directly, it is important o eliminated barriers, restrictions and protocols they have to go through before making th eir contribution.Employees should also be involved in the decision making process and their input should be valued. It is also important to encourage reward improvements noted on employees and finally, they should be given equal and direct access to information.Management practices can also be great impediments to organization change.   This means that good management practices are imperative for successful change in an organization (Scott et al., 2003). Good management practices include those practices that will identify a problem, evaluate it and finally implement it to give positive results to the organization.Good management practices mainly involve what is to be done and how it will be done to ensure success. During organization change process, good management practices involve practices which will identify barriers to the change, draw strategies to overcome these barriers and successfully implement these strategies. Good management practices should get employees more involve d in management practices and change process.Organizational culture is the greatest impediment to change process in an organization. Organization culture describes those practices which have been practiced in an organization for a longer period of time and proved effective in running the organization. Organization culture describes the daily practices in the organization.   Changing organization culture is difficult that implementing a change in other area in the organization (Scott et al., 2003).Changing organizational culture in order to accommodate organizational change can be a long process that is quite involving. Change in organization culture must allow for continuity and modify the socializing tactics that have allowed the culture to propel. Resistance to change in culture must be addressed in the most appropriate way.Reference:Scott, P. M., Andrew, H., & Doole, K. (2003). Organizational change. Oxford Publishers

Modern Family Essay

The show â€Å"Modern Family† is one of the most successful sitcom on television today. The show depicts a total of three families, a parental family, (Jay and Gloria) and the families of the two grown siblings, (Mitchell & Claire). Claire is married to Phil and has three children of their own, while Mitchell is a gay father with a live-in husband, Cameron. The on-screen worldview of the families are very open with an almost anything goes attitude that is based on an atheist or an agnostics perspective. The limited amount of shows that I watched did not display any references to God. The family values portrayed the â€Å"New Normal†, that is currently being offered on many new television shows. On the show, I witnessed a lot of light-hearted moments that made fun of the life choices that each character made, and how different characters resolved them. The comedy is situational, and dilemmas faced are often real-life, but offer whimsical, light-hearted solutions. The shows worldview is secular, but adheres to defining the â€Å"New Normal† in its application. The three families all interact with each other and depict three different types of households, all coping with everyday problems that define that particular group. When dealing with gay issues, Mitchel and Cameron are in the fore front offering an exaggerated look and perspective. Family issues are addressed by Phil and Claire, and how they interact with parenting of their three children. Jay and Gloria deal with life from viewpoint of an aging father, who marries a younger woman, who is currently pregnant with his child. The shows core values are loosely interwoven with standards and practices that suggest an anything is â€Å"OK† attitude, which would be expressed by secular humanist. Observations of this show are based on my own personal up-bring and how we handled different situations in our lives. My Christian parents would not have been so excepting of two men living together. Our family believed that marriage is between a man and a woman. â€Å"‘Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable†, (Leviticus 18: 22, NIV). Our family values were centered on our Catholic faith, whereas we believed and trusted in the Lord. In the show, Phil (husband of Claire) is portrayed as being a weak father figure, who is often laughed at and scorned by his family. He constantly wants to be everyone’s friend and does not fall into the role of a strong and guiding force within his family. In contrast, my father was the head of our household, and for a long time he was the sole provider. Both church and prayer were a large part of our daily lives. These are beliefs and traditions that I have passed onto my family. My views are in direct contrast to this sitcom. Its impact on my family is very little since I am not a regular viewer and the show is a negative influence on my personal worldview. I believe that the influence of this show on the American public is limited in scope. Many people watch and except the shows premise for what it is, just a funny comedy that really has no real value or worth. Other people will see it as an example of how a modern family should behave and create those same dynamics in their household. I see this show as a negative influence when it comes to the family. Television has a way of shaping public opinion. If enough similar programing is available, we as a society tend to accept the â€Å"New Normal† without question. In conclusion, the show â€Å"Modern Family,† is a portrayal of the American family that presents an atheist view on life. I saw no reference to God or even a slight suggestion that the family has a religious background. In today’s society the family is always being redefined by the media and has no religious insight. Television networks record on social and moral issues is very poor. The television executives believe the theory that they are open and honest, and present a product that the public wants. Modern Family is one networks’ answer to what is considered the â€Å"New Normal†, in today society.

Economic Growth and Economic Development Original Essay

In contemporary times, certain economic registers are used frequently. Arguably two of these most used terms in economics, ‘economic growth’ and ‘economic development’ are terms that just about everyone is at least remotely familiar with, even if they have not studied economics at all. Sometimes it seems everyone knows what economic growth and economic development is. Politicians use these terms all the time, and so do teachers, managers and even preachers. Often, people’s use of these terms may not be quite accurate, but one has to admit that most of the time they are never too far from the mark. Insights into the aforementioned terms ‘economic growth’ and ‘economic development’ are given as follows†¦ Economic Growth Economic Growth is an increase in a country’s real level of national output which can be caused by an increase in the quality of resources by education etc, increase in the quantity of resources & improvements in technology. Economic Growth can also be described as an increase in a country’s productive capacity, as measured by comparing gross national product (GNP) in a year with the GNP in the previous year. In other words, Economic Growth is an increase in the real level of output as measured by the annual percentage in real GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Increase in the capital stock, advances in technology, and improvement in the quality and level of literacy are considered to be the principal causes of economic growth. In recent years, the idea of sustainable development has brought in additional factors such as environmentally sound processes that must be taken into account in growing an economy. Measurement of Economic Growth Economists usually measure economic growth in terms of gross domestic product (GDP) or related indicators, such as gross national product (GNP) or gross national income (GNI) which is derived from the GDP calculation. GDP is calculated from a country’s national accounts which report annual data on incomes, expenditure and investment for each sector of the economy. Using these data it is possible to estimate the total income earned in the country in any given year (GDP) or the total income earned by a country’s citizens (GNP or GNI). GNP is derived by adjusting GDP to include repatriated income that was earned abroad, and exclude expatriated income that was earned domestically by foreigners. In countries where inflows and outflows of this sort are significant, GNP may be a more appropriate indicator of a nation’s income than GDP. There are three different ways of measuring GDP †¢the income approach †¢the output approach †¢the expenditure approach The income approach, as the name suggests measures people’s incomes, the output approach measures the value of the goods and services used to generate these incomes, and the expenditure approach measures the expenditure on goods and services. In theory, each of these approaches should lead to the same result, so if the output of the economy increases, incomes and expenditures should increase by the same amount. How to boost Economic Growth in a country In order for a country to experience economic growth, certain things have to be done. In my own opinion, I believe that; As more people are employed, the amount of capital increases, education levels increase, the quality of capital changes, or the technology increases, the productive capacity of the economy increases. Therefore, the economy can increase its output giving consumers more disposable income, promoting an increase in consumption spending, and providing resources for business to use for further investment and government to use to provide public goods and services. Increased labor force participation increases output. Expanded, improved education creates more productive workers. Business and government spending on research and development enhance our abilities to produce and allow each worker to become more productive, increasing incomes for all. Finally, to achieve a higher level of GDP in the future, consumers need to limit consumption spending and increase savings today, permitting businesses to invest more in capital goods. If resources are invested into building an economy now, future generations will enjoy a higher level of economic growth; our businesses will produce more goods and consumers can purchase more goods. Expansion of output at rates faster than our population growth is what gives us the opportunity to enjoy higher standards of living. Economic development Economic development is a normative concept meaning that the definition is variable however; the definition given by Michael Todaro is ‘’an increase in living standards, improvement in self-esteem needs and freedom from oppression as well as a greater choice.’’ Economic development can be defined as the advancement of a nation or society according to several economic factors. Economic development generally includes such trends as technological innovation, improvements in the standard of living and life expectancy, and increases in the amount of invested assets per capita At the core of the definition is the point that economic development is not just about dollars and cents but is about community well-being and creating communities that people want to live in. It is a constant challenge for small communities to hold onto their young people. There must be jobs and facilities that the next generation expects as a standard. Providing infrastructure on one hand and building social capital on the other will lead to community sustainability and resilience which eventually boils down to ‘’economic development’’ In a few words one can say that the scope of economic development includes the process and policies by which a nation improves the economic, political, and social well-being of its people. Measurement of Economic Development There are several criteria or principles to measure the economic development. Let us make a detailed study of these measurements for better understanding. 1. National Income: Some economists have taken increase in the real national income as the indicator of economic development because per-capita income depends upon the national income. National Income is related with the final goods and services produced in a country. According to this method the state of continuous increase in national income can be taken as economic development. This is majorly applicable to the poor and middle class countries. Short-run increase in national income cannot be taken as economic development. Likewise increase in the national income as a result of increase in price of goods and services cannot be defined as economic development. 2. Per Capita Income: Increase in per-capita income has been pointed out by some economists as a basis for measuring economic development; According to the classification given by the United Nations Organization in 1989, countries having per capita income less than 580 US dollars fall in the class of poor countries, countries having per capita income between 580 US dollars and 6,000 US dollars are in the middle class, and countries having per capita income more than 6,000 US dollars are in the class of rich countries. According to World Development Report 2009, per capita income of Nepal is 340 US dollars. Such indicator makes the comparative study of different countries easy. On the basis of per capita income the economic growth rate of any country can be found out. The increase in per capita income of any country shows the increase in economic growth rate of the country The UNO experts in their report on ‘Measures of Economic Development of Underdeveloped Countries’ have also accepted this measurement of development. 3. Economic Welfare Index: Economists like Colin Clark Kindleberger, D. Bright Singh, and Hersick etc. have suggested economic welfare as the measure of economic development. The term economic welfare can be understood in two ways: (a) When there is equal distribution of national income among all the sections of the society. It raises economic welfare. (b) When the purchasing power of money goes up, even then there is an increase in the level of economic welfare. The purchasing power of money can go up when with the increase in national income there is also increase in the prices of goods. That means economic welfare can increase if price stability is ensured. Thus economic welfare can boost with equal distribution of income and price stability. Higher the level of economic welfare, higher will be the extent of economic development and vice-versa. 4. Measurement through Occupational Pattern: The distribution of working population in different occupations is also regarded as criteria for the measurement of economic development. According to Colin Clark there is deep relation between the occupational structure and economic development. He has divided the occupational structure in three sectors (a) Primary Sector: It includes agriculture, fisheries, forestry, mining etc. (b) Secondary Sector: It consists of manufacturing, trade, construction etc. (c) Tertiary Sector: It includes services, banking, transport, etc. In underdeveloped countries, majority of the working population is engaged in primary sector. On the contrary, in developed countries the majority of the working population works in tertiary sector. When a country makes economic progress, its working population begins to shift from primary sector to secondary and tertiary sectors. 5. Human Development Index (HDI): The modern economists were not satisfied with GNP, per capita or national income as the principal measures of economic progress. According to them, the issue is not only how much growth but what kind of growth and as a result, they formulated the Human Development Index (HDI). This indicator was for the first time developed by United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in the year 1990.There were a number of measures which were included in this index, However, to keep the HDI simple and manageable, the following main variables were included in it (a) Life expectancy was chosen as a measure of long life (b) Literacy as an index of knowledge and (c) Real GDP per person which represents Income for decent living. 6. Physical quality of life index (PQLI): This is non-income indicator of economic development because this uses physical quality of life as the indicator. This method of measuring economic development is based on the following three things. They are:– (a) Life expectancy (b) Infant mortality (c) Literacy. Countries having low life expectancy, low literacy rate and high infant mortality will have low index. If in any country PQLI is increasing then it indicates the increase in the physical quality of the life of people. Increase in per-capita income does not necessarily indicate the increase in the facilities like healthy food, health, situation, education, etc. Therefore PQLI method is taken to be better indicator than per-capita income method. In addition to these various indicators the following facts are also taken as the indicators of economic development. (a) Equality improvement.(b) Poverty alleviation(c) Quality of life (d) Capital formation(e) Fulfillment of basic needs.(f) Population growth rare (g) Increase in employment opportunities (h) Decrease in dependence on agriculture (i) Increase in entrepreneurship (j) Utilization of natural resources (k) Increase in export of finished goods. (l) Trade diversification (m) Extension of infrastructures DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ECONOMIC GROWTH AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT In general words, economic development refers to the problems of underdeveloped countries and economic growth to those of developed countries. The raising of income levels is generally called economic growth in rich countries and in poor ones it is called economic development. But this view does not specify the underlying forces which raise the income levels in the two types of economies. The problems of underdeveloped countries are concerned with the development of unused resources, even though their uses are well known, while those of advanced countries are related to growth, most of their resources being already known and developed to a considerable extent. In fact, the terms â€Å"development and growth† have nothing to do with the type of economy. The distinction between the two relates to the nature and causes of change. These two terms may also be explained as the development is a discontinues and spontaneous change in the stationary state which forever alters and displaces the equilibrium state previously existing; while growth is a gradual and steady change in the long run which comes about by a gradual increase in the rate of savings and population. This view has been widely accepted and elaborated by the majority of economists. Economic Growth does not take into account the depletion of natural resources which might lead to pollution, congestion & disease. Development however is concerned with sustainability which means meeting the needs of the present without compromising future needs. These environmental effects are becoming more of a problem for Governments now that the pressure has increased on them due to Global warming. According to another school of thought, â€Å"economic growth means more output, while economic development employs both more output and changes in the technical and institutional arrangements by which it is produced and distributed. Growth may well involve not only more output derived from greater amounts of inputs but also greater efficiency, either, and increase in output per unit of input. Development goes beyond this two employ changes in the composition of output and in the allocation of inputs by sectors†. According to some classical economists the growth is an expansion of the system in one or more dimensions without a change in its structure, and development is an innovative process leading the structural transformation of social system. Thus economic growth is related to a quantitative sustained increase in the country’s per capita output or income accompanied by expansion in its labor force, consumption, capital, and volume of trade. On the other hand, economic development is a wider term. It is related to qualitative change in economic wants, goods, incentives, and institutions. It describes the underlying determinants of growth such as technological and structural change. Development embraces both growth and decline. An economy can grow but it may not develop because poverty, unemployment and inequalities may continue to persist due to the absence of technological and structural changes. But it is difficult to imagine development without economic growth in the absence of an increase in output per capita, particularly when population is growing rapidly. Despite these apparent differences, some economists use these terms as synonyms.

Friend Game Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Friend Game - Essay Example The article explains the different roles of each individual in the death of the girl, by sending malicious messages to her which frustrates the girl leading to her sudden death. Despite Tina’s endless trials to find justice for her lovely daughter, she does not get justice, and in return she turns to make the life of Lori Drew miserable. The Drew’s are aware that their daughter is responsible for the death of Megan, but they deny that fact blaming her that she actually took her life. Justice is denied to the Meier’s despite the endless efforts of the reporters who do the investigation to reveal the reality. Meier is a teenager who needs to be protected from malicious actions, and she is protected by the enforced privacy laws and laws governing the use of social media. In my view, she was denied justice is justified by the reasons discussed in the main body of the essay. Statement of the problem Abuse of the social media has been a problem for a long time which ha s become a global disaster to manage. The abuse is done through the internet harassment which is often done by sending of hostile messages to individuals over the social media. In the ‘Friend’s Game,’ article by Collins, we identify how a young girl of thirteen years is harassed by receiving hostile messages from friends, through her MySpace account. There are various people involved in the death of the thirteen year old girl involving even older people than her. The research tries to determine whether or not the woman did the cyber-bullying should be prosecuted or imprisoned. This is a problem that needs to be stopped with effective policies and laws governing social privacy. The laws should be enforced and enforced to be used in a court of law to determine cases of the same caliber. Objectives; Main objective - to determine whether or not the woman who did cyber-bullying should be prosecuted Other objectives; To identify reasons as to why the principal offender s should be prosecuted and imprisoned for their ‘crimes’ To indentify the influence of the offenders on the girl’s death To identify the laws and policies available and responsible for regulating use of internet and social media, governing the users’ privacy. Analysis and discussion In the analysis of the events and circumstances surrounding death of Meier Megan, a thirteen year old girl who commits suicide at her home. The girl is a victim of internet harassment. The aim of the study is to determine whether or not the woman who did cyber-bullying should be prosecuted. Objective to be discussed aims at obtaining reasons for prosecution or imprisonment; to determine the impact of the offenders on the death of the girl and to identify the laws and policies reasonable for enforcing internet privacy. Megan as an individual lead a natural lifestyle despite the challenges she faced due to her illness, but her parents were in hand to help her cope with the situat ion. Lori Drew and Megan lived in the same neighborhood, and they were long time friends who played together during their child hood. She was thirteen years and a volley ball player and to crown it all a Chihuahua manic. Despite all this, she led a gloomy lifestyle as she

Nordstrom Retail Service Strategy Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Nordstrom Retail Service Strategy - Assignment Example Customers will start talking favorably about the company only when they feel they are given importance and showered attention by the sales staff. So, Nordstrom meticulously ensures that each customer feels important and leaves the store fully satisfied, unlike some other chains stores that focus only increasing turnover without spending much effort on pampering customers. Product assortment: Whether it was shoes which it initially sold or later on apparels which it started selling later, Nordstrom ensures availability of full range of sizes and a wide variety of designs for the customers to choose from. In this way, the possibility that a customer will end up buying something or the other increase manifold. This also means that a customer entering a Nordstrom store will feel assured that there would perhaps be no need to hop from one shop to the other in search of the desired product. All national level chain stores, however, also try to ensure considerable depth and breadth in product types they retail so this is not something that is unique about Nordstrom. Price: While some retailers opt for the discount route to attract customers, others try to project their exclusivity by maintaining high prices. Nordstrom instead fixes its prices in such a manner that convinces each customer that the product they buy is worth its price. This generates a sense of reliability and honesty that goes a long way to enhance its reputation. The company clears its unsold stocks at discounted prices through a separate chain known as Nordstrom Rack Clearance Stores and also has one final clearance store called Last Chance.

The impact of Accounting Information System on the audit process Essay

The impact of Accounting Information System on the audit process - Essay Example In the field of accounting and auditing, the performance of functions has a great role in which auditors and accountants should expand their knowledge to adapt to these changes. Accounting information system (AIS) is the new way of preparing and analyzing financial statements in relation to technology advancement (Orwel, n.d.). This newly acquired system does not only end up to the preparation but also it extends up to the auditing process. The aim of this paper is to investigate the impact of accounting information system (AIS) on the audit process. It is important to know how AIS is affecting the audit process and on the work of the auditors and accountants. The focus is to give an overview, objectives and motivations, and some proposals of the implementation. According to Orwel (n.d.), â€Å"accounting information system (AIS) is a system of records, usually computer based, which combines accounting principles and concepts with the benefits of an information system...† Making the accounting activities with the use of computer makes it easier and time safe, but threats in data collection and data processing should not be ignored for it comes from variety of sources (Beard & Wen, 2010). Decision makers should have a control on the system so that threats can be avoided. Enormous amount is needed in the implementation of AIS, it is quite expensive for those small enterprises but the benefits can surpass the amount of investment (Salehi, et al., 2010, p.188). On the other hand, the appropriateness of financial information produced by an accountant is being examined by an auditor, either by operational, internal or compliance. It is the role of auditing to objectively evaluate the entries based on established criteria before the results are given to the interested users (Kelechi, 2007, p.14). The information subject for audit process is now computerized that is why auditors are disturbed whether the information in the system is reliable for

Migrant labor and unions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Migrant labor and unions - Essay Example ding housing, transportation, bathing facilities, wages comparable to those of American laborers, and contracts written in Spanish; (US Government, p 1760) discrepancies between the guaranteed protections and actual treatment were, unfortunately, the norm. Many Mexican workers found themselves working in sub-standard conditions, and often faced hostility from the local population. Still, they were supposed to pay well by Mexican standards, and so many took the risk of winding up in lousy contracts. Important for our purposes is the way the Bracero program managed to establish the kind of circular migration pattern still a part of now mostly illegal Mexican migrant work: workers would come to the US for some time, return to Mexico during the off season, and then come back to the US to make more money with the next crop. It also established a history of broken promises to migrant workers on the part of farm labor employers, and minimal repercussion on those who would take advantage of migrant laborers. In the late 1960s, the Bracero program and all of its extensions and revised forms officially ended, but migration by Mexican workers north in search of agricultural did not. Today, many come for similar reasons as those who came generations ago. Not much has changed since the early half of the twentieth century concerning the motivations for workers to migrate: â€Å"Conditions in Mexico were much the same then as they are now—politically and economically unstable with a corrupt government and massive unemployment... Farmers and peasants tied to Mexico’s feudal economic system flocked by the thousands for a chance to travel to El Norte where work and a new life could be found†. (Bedolla) In the initial stages of the Bracero program, employers were responsible for transporting temporary workers to and from their home location in Mexico. When the program ended, many found that plenty of Mexican workers would make the trip themselves, often suffering

Business Ethics Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Business Ethics Assignment - Essay Example The amount of fast food advertising the children are exposed to everyday affects their diet to a great extent. This issue is very pressing as recently the world has witnessed the effects of fast food consumption on their health. In order to calculate the effects of fast-food on the health of people, 3301 black and white adults were interviewed. They were asked to give information about their diets, physical bodily activity and other life style factors. The results showed that those who had fast-food more than twice a week were more likely to gain an extra 10 pounds and has two times greater increase in insulin resistance. (Garner, 2005) The amount of youngsters in the United States who are obese, have type 2 diabetes, and are at the risk of obesity is pressing. (McGinnis et al., 2006) Overweight and obese adults suffer from type 2 diabetes and this is usually linked to other illnesses such as heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure. (Diabetes in children increasing with fast food lifestyle, 2002) A new study by University of California Los Angeles researchers found that advanced heart failure patients with diabetes who are treated with insulin have a death rate four times higher than when treated with oral medications. (Gardner, 2005) In 1960's the number of obese children was approximately 5 percent and in 2002 it increased to 16 percent. This means that the number has tripled in the past forty years. The statistics show how serious a matter this is and why this should be a nationwide concern. 9 million children from the United States are obese and what is worse is that another 15 percent of the children are at risk. (McGinnis et al., 2006) Another very shocking statistic is $100 billion is spent on health-care costs every year. (Gardner, 2005) According to Schlosser, among toddlers in the United States, 21 percent which makes up roughly one-fifth of all the American toddlers, are eating French-fries every day. (Tablac, 2003) The present diet of the children is extremely high in calories, fat, and sugar and is not healthy at the same time. (McGinnis et al., 2006) Fast food is often called unsafe food because of richness in salt and sugar. (Thimphu, 2007) The effects of this unhealthy diet also include diseases later in life including heart failures, diabetes, cancer and osteoporosis. It is now the responsibility of parents, health officials, governments and businesses to realize the magnitude of this problem. They should do something about it so that the children will have a safe healthy future. The diet of these children should change. They should have more intakes of vitamins, fruits, vegetables and whole-grain products. (McGinnis et al., 2006) According to Dr. Julie Gerberding, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number one health problem in the United States is not SARS. It is obesity that is becoming the number one health problem. (Ruskin, 2003) The Role of MarketingNow the question is how does this work How is marketing of fast food so persuasive that it changes the way people eat. These people include the growing population of both the developed and the developing countries. The marketing of fast food includes its four P's: Price, Promotion, Product, and Placement. Mediums like magazines, television,

The Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance Essay

The Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance - Essay Example The essay "The Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance" analyzes The Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA (1990) which entails civil rights law, which hinders discrimination according to disability. ADA requires the management of organizations to provide appropriate accommodations to the staffs with disabilities. Staffs should be trained on ADA compliance. The training is diverse and ensures that employees with disabilities are comfortable in the work environment. The training should focus on the rights of the employees with disabilities. One right that disabled employees must be given, especially by the management staffs, is promotion opportunities for qualified individuals including the disabled. The employees must also be trained on flexible work arrangements, so as to effectively accommodate staffs with disabilities. For example, assisting employees to telecommute, and hence, work at home effectively using telecommunication devices like the internet enabled computers. The work experience of the disabled staffs can be empathetically improved by all employees. The employees should participate in teamwork. Teamwork encourages equal participation, especially during decision making. The disabled staffs, who embrace team spirit, have adequate opportunities for engaging in communication. The dis abled staffs should be effectively considered in the succession planning. Succession planning ensures that the disabled staffs are continuously equipped with the appropriate skills.

The evolution of human intelligence Essay Example for Free

The evolution of human intelligence Essay The evolution of human intelligence refers to a set of theories that attempt to explain how human intelligence has evolved. These theories are closely tied to the evolution of the human brain and to the emergence of human language. The timeline of human evolution spans approximately 7 million years,[citation needed] from the separation of the Pan genus until the emergence of behavioral modernity by 50,000 years ago. The first 3 million years of this timeline concern Sahelanthropus, the following 2 million concern Australopithecus and the final 2 million span the history of actual human species (the Paleolithic). Many traits of human intelligence, such as empathy, theory of mind, mourning, ritual, and the use of symbols and tools, are already apparent in great apes although in lesser sophistication than in humans. The great apes show considerable abilities for cognition and empathy. Chimpanzees make tools and use them to acquire foods and for social displays; they have sophisticated hunting strategies requiring cooperation, influence and rank; they are status conscious, manipulative and capable of deception; they can learn to use symbols and understand aspects of human language including some relational syntax, concepts of number and numerical sequence.In one study, young chimpanzees outperformed human college students in tasks requiring remembering numbers. This claim was refuted in a later study after it was noted that the chimpanzees had received extensive practice with the task while the students were evaluated on their first attempt. When human subjects were given time to practice, they substantially outperformed the young chimps. Chimpanzees are capable of empathy, having been observed to feed turtles in the wild, and show curiosity in wildlife (such as pythons)[citation needed].Homininae Around 10 million years ago, the Earths climate entered a cooler and drier phase, which led eventually to the ice ages beginning some 2.6 million years ago. One consequence of this was that the north African tropical forest began to retreat, being replaced first by open grasslands and eventually by desert (the modern Sahara). As their environment changed from continuous forest to patches of forest separated by expanses of grassland, some primates adapted to a partly or fully ground-dwelling life. Here they were exposed to predators, such as the big cats, from whom they had previously been safe. These environmental pressures caused selection to favor bipedalism: walking on hind legs. This gave the Homininaes eyes greater elevation, the ability to see approaching danger further off, and a more efficient means of locomotion (see main article for details).[citation needed] It also freed the forelimbs (arms) from the task of walking and made the hands available for tasks such as gathering food. At some point the bipedal primates developed handedness, giving them the ability to pick up sticks, bones and stones and use them as weapons, or as tools for tasks such as killing smaller animals, cracking nuts, or cutting up carcasses. In other words, these primates developed the use of primitive technology. Bipedal tool-using primates form the Hominina subtribe, of which the earliest species, such as Sahelanthropus tchadensis, date to about 7 to 5 million years ago. From about 5 million years ago, the Hominin brain began to develop rapidly in both size and differentiation of function. It has been shown that Great Ape cooperation and communication is severely impeded by their competitiveness, and thus that the apes would revolutionize their culture-bearing ability if they could just shrug off their competitiveness. It is also well known that even early hominins lacked the size and sharpness of their canine teeth that apes use as a threat signal, suggesting prehumans simply had no use for threat signals. That means they had already transcended ape competitiveness and thus developed superior cooperation and communication. There has been a gradual increase in brain volume as humans progressed along the timeline of evolution (see Homininae), starting from about 600 cm3 in Homo habilis up to 1500 cm3 in Homo sapiens neanderthalensis. Thus, in general theres a correlation between brain volume and intelligence. However, modern Homo sapiens have a brain volume slightly smaller (1250 cm3) than neanderthals, and the Flores hominids (Homo floresiensis), nicknamed hobbits, had a cranial capacity of about 380 cm3 (considered small for a chimpanzee) about a third of that of H. erectus. It is proposed that they evolved from H. erectus as a case of insular dwarfism. With their three times smaller brain the Flores hominids apparently used fire and made tools as sophisticated as those of their ancestor H.erectus. In this case, it seems that for intelligence, the structure of the brain is more important than its volume. The social brain hypothesis was proposed by British anthropologist Robin Dunbar, who argues that human intelligence did not evolve primarily as a means to solve ecological problems, but rather intelligence evolved as a means of surviving and reproducing in large and complex social groups. Some of the behaviors associated with living in large groups include reciprocal altruism, deception and coalition formation. These group dynamics relate to Theory of Mind or the ability to understand the thoughts and emotions of others, though Dunbar himself admits in the same book that it is not the flocking itself that causes intelligence to evolve (as shown by ruminants). Dunbar argues that when the size of a social group increases, the number of different relationships in the group may increase by orders of magnitude. Chimpanzees live in groups of about 50 individuals whereas humans typically have a social circle of about 150 people, which is now referred to as Dunbars number. According to the social brain hypothesis, when hominids started living in large groups, selection favored greater intelligence. As evidence, Dunbar cites a relationship between neocortex size and group size of various mammals. However, meerkats have far more social relationships than their small brain capacity would suggest. Another hypothesis is that it is actually intelligence that causes social relationships to become more complex, because intelligent individuals are more difficult to learn to know. There are also studies that show that Dunbars number is not the upper limit of the number of social relationships in humans either

The explosive growth of RyanAir Company

The explosive growth of RyanAir Company The Ryanair Company is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable entrepreneurial stories of the past 10 years in Europe. Furthermore that Ryanair has developed a very outspoken communication style, using advertising and media to a great deal to publicize its revolution in air travel. Ryanair was Europes original low-fares airline and it is still Europes largest low-fares carrier. In the current year Ryanair will carry over 35m. passengers on 300 low fare routes across 21 European countries. Ryanair has 15 European bases and a fleet of over 100 brand new Boeing 737-800 aircraft, with firm orders for a further 125 new aircraft, which will be delivered over the next seven years. These additional aircraft will allow Ryanair to double in size to over 70m. passengers p.a. by 2012. Ryanair currently employs a team of 2,700 people, comprising over 25 different nationalities. Furthermore Ryanair continues a rapid growth in 2005. They started the year by launching two new bases at Liverpool John Lennon Airport and at Shannon in the West of Ireland. In February Ryanair announced orders for a further 70 firm aircraft from Boeing as well as 70 options. This takes Ryanairs total order with Boeing to 225 firm aircraft and 200 options. These new aircraft, which will be delivered between 2005 and 2012, will allow Ryanair to grow to over 70m. passengers per annum, proving that Ryanair is not just Europes original low fares airline, but remains Europes biggest low fares airline, as well as the only airline offering the lowest fares in every European market. http://www.grin.com Aims and objective: Aim of this report is to evaluate the given case study on the topic of Ryanair the low-fares airline by Eleanor OHiggins and critically analysing the current strategy of Ryanair to become successful in the European airline industry while airline business is struggling in Europe. The objectives of this report are as follows. Undertake an environmental analysis of the European airline industry with implications for the budget sector and Ryanair in particular. Analyse how Ryanair has been successful in the European budget airline industry. From the above analysis, critically assess the sustainability of Ryanairs strategy. Research methodology: In this report secondary research method also known as desk research, is being used. secondary research is the most common research method employed in the industry today. It involves processing data that has already been collected by another party. With this form, researchers will consult previous studies and findings such as reports, press articles and previous market research projects in order to come to a conclusion. The relatively low expense in comparison to primary research is the main advantage of this research, as no new research needs to be commissioned. However, its main disadvantage is that the data used in the analysis may be out-dated and therefore return inaccurate results. (www.marketresearchworld.net,) Environment Analysis: The environment is what gives organisations their means of survival. (Johnson et al 2008) We can distribute the environment into layers as follows. Source: (Johnson et al 2008) The Macro-Environment: The macro-environment is the highest level layer. This consists of broad environmental factors that impact to a greater or lesser extent on almost all organisations.(Johnson et al 2008) Macro environment is out of control of any organisation but it could influence the organisations overall activities and functions. The radical and ongoing changes occurring in society create an uncertain environment and have an impact on the function of the whole organization (Tsiakkiros, 2002). To analyse the macro-environment there is a framework which helps to analyse Political, Economical, Socio-Cultural, Technological, Ecological and Legal factors called PESTEL. This analysis of is therefore often known as Pest analysis (Johnson, Scholes, 1999). PESTEL analysis of Ryanair: Political On May 1, 2003, it will mark one of the most important days in recent European history, the continent will see the biggest expansion of EU to date when ten states become new members. For Ryanair new markets will open which suits its growth plans. Stansted airport, owned by BAA, is one of the most rapidly growing airports in Europe (www.baa.co.uk/). BAA plans to build a second runway and terminal there, accompanied by necessary rail and road infrastructure, aiming to double passenger capacity within ten years. Stansted is Ryanairs London base and an expansion would enable substantial traffic increases thereby facilitating consolidation (Johnson Scholes 2002). The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is responsible for setting à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦price caps on airport chargesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦at airports designated by the Secretary of State (www.caa.co.uk). One of these is Stansted, which has hitherto à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦benefited from discounted airport charges and cross-subsidy from the higher charges paid by the airlines at Heathrow and Gatwick airports (Done 18/12/03). CAAs new requirements command airport financing without cross-subsidisation on a stand-alone basis. Consequently discounts will be removed and charges possibly increased. Ryanair has protested as it will raise its costs (Done 20/10/03). Economical Opec aims to keep oil prices within the agreed band of US$22-US$28/bbl (www.opec.org). However, with crude oil now à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦standing at close to $33 a barrelà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (www.bbc.co.uk) near a 13-year high, Opec considers increasing its target. With a tight US gasoline market, low inventories and an upsurge in fighting in Iraq, oil prices look likely to remain high or rise Ryanair faces persistently high or rising fuel prices. Sociocultural Holiday home ownership in Europe is increasingly common for Britons. During Christmas sales boomed and analysts believe it will continue as customers are à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦encouraged by the highest employment figures in 28 years, low interest ratesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Insley 18/01/04) and other favourable borrowing conditions. Ryanair services regional airports, opening up the European countryside to buyers, and this trend means an increase in the possible customer base (Insley 08/02/04). The over-55s now represent approximately one third of most EU-countries populations, and the figure is increasing. Because of better healthcare and financial planning, a significant proportionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦of senior citizensà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ are able to indulge in high levels of leisure-orientated consumptionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Brassington Pettitt 2003). Analysts recommend developing specific marketing strategies for this market highlighting its growing importance (Lohmann Danielsson 2001). Ryanair here has an opportunity to increase its market share. Technological New technology will allow mobile phone and broadband use on-board. Carriers, including Ryanair, can thus increase ancillary services by offering on-line shopping, TV screenings and mobile phone usage against a fee. Furthermore, the satellite link could boost operating efficiency by being used to monitor planes, giving early warnings of problems to ground crews, thereby enhancing safety and minimising grounding (Economist 01/03/03 Economist 01/04/04). Environmental A recent White Paper emphasised à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦the environmental importance of including aviation within the global emissions-trading schemeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Newman 03/12/03), aimed at providing financial incentives for companies to cut greenhouse-gas emissions and to tax aviation fuel across EU. Presently an increase in air passenger tax is planned, which doubles the  £5 and  £20 economy passengers currently pay for short- and long-haul flights. This will raise Ryanairs prices, possibly deterring the most price-sensitive customers. Legal Ryanair uses mainly secondary airports which enables negotiation of favourable deals with the owners. At Charleroi Ryanair was given 50% off landing fees plus contributions to local amenities, training and marketing costs against guarantee of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦a certain level of business for 15 years (FT 10/11/03). However, unfair competition was claimed and the European Commission (EC) decided that discounts on landing fees and ground-handling services are illegal, and ordered Ryanair to pay back  £3m. Ryanair fears that high-fare airlines and expensive hub-airports will lobby the EC into investigating other deals, using Charleroi as precedent (Done 29/01/04). Porters Five force analysis The PESTEL factors are important in a relative way as they usually affect all firms in the industry (Bowman Asch 1987). Hence, organisations should also examine their more immediate environment/industry, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦the group of firms producing products that are close substitutes for each other (Porter 1980). This analysis examines five competitive forces: potential entrants; buyers; substitutes; suppliers and industry competitors, which determine level of industry competition and profitability. Applying this to the budget airline industry enables identification of opportunities and threats to Ryanair in its business environment (Johnson Scholes 2002). Threat of new entrants High start-up costs needed for aircrafts, reservation systems and promotion, negates threat to some extent (Gilbert et.al 2001). The over-crowded market means à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦there are too many budget aircraft playing Europes skies for too little money (Clark 07/02/04). As Europes skies are congested there is a lack of slots (Hanlon 1989) forcing new entrants into secondary airports and less profitable routes. Due to incumbents cost advantages, such as economies of scale and experience curve effects, price wars can be launched against newcomers. However, the market is expanding which pulls in new entrants and reduces the effect of entry barriers (Johnson Scholes 2002). Bargaining power of buyers Price dominated short-haul market with little or no product differentiation. Buyers thus face low switching costs (Porter 1980) As price is à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦more important to passengers than productà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Gilbert et.al 2001) there is low customer loyalty. Procurement managers are now influential in the travel patterns of their business travellers. Threat of substitute products or services Videoconferencing for business companies has not had the impact expected and is no threat (Gilbert et.el 2001). Other modes of transport are no tenable threats generally. However, Eurostar has been winning customers from airlines since its opening and many short-haul flights à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦could be eliminated after 2007, when the fast line to the channel tunnel is completed (Wright 01/12/03). Bargaining power of suppliers The price of fuel is directly related to the cost of oil which is determined by Opec and out of control of the industry (www.opec.org). Budget airlines have work-hard cultures to keep costs down (Gilbert et.el 2001) meaning a scarce number of multi-skilled employees which à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦can bargain away a significant fraction of potential profitsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Porter 1980). However, carriers tend to experience economies of scale which gives purchasing power. Consequently, airlines are able to negotiate favourable deals with most of their suppliers (Johnson Scholes 2002). Rivalry among existing firms Already very competitive industry. Numerous new entrants intensify competition, although several newcomers have struggled to establish themselves and failed, Debonair and AB Airlines for example. The over-crowded market, and commodity nature of the product, means that airlines are battling to fill planes. Aggressive pricing, efficient distribution and innovative communication mixes are frequent competitive measures. However, carriers vary somewhat in segmentation by targeting different markets (narrow versus wide customer base) and offering divergent routes (regional towns versus main cities) which reduces rivalry somewhat (Gilbert et.al 2001). Nevertheless, competition is intensified as conventional carriers adopts à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦many strategies of the no-frills carriers and continues to cut costs (Done 29/01/04). With low fares but a higher level of service (more frills and main airport servicing) they are a big threat. Mergers, acquisitions and alliances are increasingly used for consolidation and competition. EasyJet bought Go, bmibaby partnered with Germanwings (Economist 01/03/03 Hotten 13/03/04). Ryanair acquired Buzz but paid too much and was forced to close it to boost its productivity. SWOT Analysis: Key Strengths and Weaknesses Strengths Weaknesses Cost-consciousness at every level Isolation of airports Ability to drive down costs Poor judgement in route selection and acquisition Fast turnaround times Targets very narrow market Cross-utilisation of employees Poor brand image Website Negotiation skills Ability to achieve growth Use of secondary airports Key Opportunities and Threats Opportunities Threats The EU expansion The European Court of Justice ruling The Stansted expansion The Stansted expansion EUs ageing population The global emissions-trading scheme Mergers, acquisitions and alliances Low customer loyalty ANALYSIS OF STRATEGIC CAPABILITY A strategic analysis also includes investigation of the strategic capability, the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ability to perform at the level required for success (Johnson Scholes 2002). Firms must understand what customers want and adopt product/service features accordingly. To succeed companies need: Critical Success Factors (CSF), features especially valued by customers and used to outperform competition; unique resources, hard to emulate and generates competitive advantage; core competences to meet the CSF, leading to competitive advantage. A number of tools exist to analyse strategic capability. Applying some of them to Ryanair facilitates identification of the organisations key strengths and weaknesses. Value Chain analysis This is a à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦systematic way of studying theà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦activities undertaken by a firm (Thompson 1997) and a means of identifying how competitive advantage is, or can be, created and sustained. The value chain consists of primary and support activities that together produce the profit margin. When the most critical of these are performed better or more cheaply, competitive advantage is created. The activities are à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦related by linkages within the value chain (Porter 1985), meaning that how one is performed affects the performance or cost of another, and key linkages generate competitive advantage. Value activities should be benchmarked, compared against those of organisations both inside and outside the industry, to learn and improve on best practice (Laverick Brown 1992). Primary activities Inbound logistics Dependency on suppliers to deliver fuel as well as food, drinks and duty-paid products to be sold on-board (Gilbert et.al 2001). These need to be stored, handled and controlled upon delivery Low-cost deals are negotiated against promise of large and growing volumes of business (Felsted 04/11/03). Operations Use of standard model plane, Boeing 737, means that Ryanair is à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦able to obtain spares and maintenance services on favourable terms, limits costs of staff training and offer flexibility in scheduling aircraft and crew assignments (Johnson Scholes 2002). A relatively young fleet reduces maintenance, spare and fuel costs. Fast turnarounds (core competence), 25 minutes, is the most important cost advantage as it enables high aircraft utilisation (Felsted 04/11/03). More frequent departures (two more a day than competitors) with few planes increases revenue (key linkage). However, Southwest excels with 15 minute turnarounds as its à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦activities complement each other in ways that create real economic value (Porter 1996). Point-to-point flights mean no interlinking with other carriers. Ryanair can à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦offer direct non-stop journeys, avoiding the cost of providing through serviceà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦for connecting passengersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦and delaysà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦caused by late arrival of connecting flights (Johnson Sholes 2002). Outbound logistics Use of isolated secondary airports often requires further transport arrangements for customers. Also, some destinations are à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦so geographically obscure that they cant support regular services (Pratley 05/02/04), as evident on some intra-Scandinavian routes for example (Done 04/11/03). This limits the level of market share Ryanair can achieve. EasyJet does the opposite and flies to big cities, but then has to pay higher landing charges which is reflected in their higher prices (Bowley 21/07/03). However, using regional airports saves costs as charges are lower, facilities cheaper and Ryanair can negotiate favourable deals. It also enables fast turnaround times, and more on-time departures as the airports are less congested (Johnson Scholes 2002). 95% of Ryanairs flights are punctual compared to 88% for EasyJet (www.ryanair.com). Marketing and Sales Heavy spending on advertising and promotions to expand its market is reduced as most advertising takes place on the website. There promotion is also used to sell excess capacity, such as two-for-one offers, which creates market awareness. Direct marketing is à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦used occasionally with the customer database (Gilbert et.al 2001), and enables relationship marketing which produce customer retention equalling increased productivity (Ali-Knight Wild 2001). Ryanair considers branding virtually irrelevant as it believes that price is most important to customers. This is reflected in its not always so good image in the press. Southwest, contributes a large part of its success to its well established brand values (Gilbert et.al 2001), and EasyJet has won awards for its brand (Brand Strategy 2001). Over 90% of bookings are made directly, either on the website or through reservations centres. The website saves on à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦staff costs, agents commission, and computer reservation charges, while significantly contributing to growth (Johnson Scholes 2002). Furthermore, direct booking gives greater control over sales of ancillary services, important revenue contributors, and eliminates need for tickets which reduces check-in times. Travel agencies are used on a small scale as necessary when opening new routes in unknown markets. Service Virtually no frills lower costs considerably, enable fast turnarounds and very low ticket prices (Gilbert et.al 2001). A very basic product is offered and Ryanair now plans to remove the last frills (Gow 16/02/04). The question is how much customers are willing to forgo before switching to competitors. Will it be possible to sustain the necessary load factor with an even narrower target market? Southwest is more successful than Ryanair but has not stripped away all frills (Porter 1996). The low service damages the brand which leads to reduced business. For example, Ryanair was taken to court for charging disabled passengers  £18 for wheelchair usage (Tait 03/12/03), and is known for transferring passengers to later or alternative flights without notice if original flight is not full enough (Johnson Scholes 2002). Support activities Procurement Purchasing power enables negotiation of favourable deals (core competence) with suppliers. However, these demand à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦large andà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ growing volumes based on passenger numbers (Felsted 04/11/03) which is becoming difficult to sustain as Ryanair expanded too quickly. Although growth is slowed down new planes has been ordered aiming to double the fleet by 2009. Buys mostly during recession when prices are down Good buyer-supplier relationships ensure reliability and low-cost procurement of services (many functions are contracted out). Safety is guaranteed as contracted work is supervised and planned by Ryanair staff (Johnson Scholes 2002). Technology development Ryanair uses its website to monitor bookings to see how full planes are minute by minute. If numbers fall prices can be slashed immediately to attract buyers thus increasing the load factor. However, they dont hesitate to raise prices if demand is buoyant (Bowley 21/07/03) which leads to effective yield management. CONCLUSION The aim of this report was to carry out a strategy analysis of Ryanair, Europes largest low-cost no-frills airline. From this it became evident that the organisation operates in a complex environment with fast changing influences that affect its business both beneficially and unfavourably. It also enabled identification of some of the sources of Ryanairs competitive advantage: core competencies, unique resources, key linkages and the superior cost performance compared to its closest competitor. However, it also became clear that the organisation still has a lot to learn from best practice. In general Ryanairs strategies match its task environment although it fails to address certain crucial issues. If these are not dealt with they could lead to future problems and reductions in profits.

Matrilineal social structure of spotted hyenas

Matrilineal social structure of spotted hyenas The spotted hyena, Crocuta crocuta ¸ has evolved a matrilineal society in which the females are more dominant and aggressive than males within the clans. Female and male behaviors come together to form a complex societal structure that promotes variability and reproductive success. This species is an exceptional example of matrilineal hierarchy and social organization as opposed to the regular male-dominant societal structure present in the case of most mammals. Scientists continue to study the spotted hyena for its remarkably sophisticated social behavior, which may be comparable to that of some primates and possibly even human beings (Jenks et al., 1995; Drea et al., 2002; Engh et al., 2002; East et al., 2003). The spotted hyena, Crocuta crocuta, is a very intelligent animal that organizes itself into large clans of 50-80 members (Engh et al., 2002). While most mammals exhibit a male-dominant society where males fight for rank and the right to reproduce, the spotted hyena has developed a matrilineal society (Jenks et al., 1995). Females are more dominant and aggressive than males and pass on their rank to their offspring (Jenks et al., 1995; Engh et al., 2002). They are responsible for reproductive choice due to their dominant status (East et al., 2003). Males regularly travel to clans outside their natal society, despite the cost of access to food, for the chance of higher reproductive success (Engh et al., 2002). They also engage in specific favorable behaviors to entice females to choose to mate with them (East et al., 2003). All of these sophisticated behaviors have evolved to promote variability and overall success for the spotted hyena. Even more amazingly, the same social structure a nd behaviors of dominant-submissive interactions emerged within an isolated group of spotted hyenas raised in captivity (Jenks et al., 1995). The spotted hyena is definitely a very unique case of societal arrangement (Engh et al., 2002). With further study, the evolution of this remarkable case of sex-role reversal and complex hierarchy may soon be fully understood. It may provide further insight into similar social arrangements seen with other animals such as primates (Jenks et al., 1995). The study of spotted hyenas may even provide insight into more primitive stages of human societal structure, especially where there are matrilineal cultures. Females are without question the more dominant gender within spotted hyena clans and they exercise this dominance when it comes to reproduction (Engh et al., 2002; East et al., 2003). They are on average larger, more aggressive, and more violent than males within the clan (Engh et al., 2002). Their special anatomy an enlarged clitoris through which copulation occurs gives them full control over sexual activities and partners (East et al., 2003). There is no chance for forced copulation simply because the male hyena needs the females full cooperation for proper coitus to occur (East et al., 2003). Theories for the evolution of this physical characteristic include (a) counter-evolution in the presence of high rates of forced copulation and (b) selection for overall more dominant and aggressive individuals resulting in masculinization (Drea et al., 2002). Since more dominant and aggressive females also attain a higher rank within the clan, they tend to be more successful in raising a larger number of young. A higher rank correlates to greater access to food and thus higher chances of survival for both mother and offspring (Engh et al., 2002). Female spotted hyenas have multiple criteria for choosing mates. They prefer immigrant males to natal males, those born within the community a possible measure for prevention of inbreeding (Engh et al., 2002). Even more amazingly, females generally prefer males of similar age, preventing sexual interactions with fathers or sons (East et al., 20023). Females also show preference for more submissive, less aggressive males (East et al., 2003). This selection for less aggressive males further emphasizes the sexual dimorphism, both in behavior and physical characteristics, present in this species. Females copulate with several males when in heat, possibly to dissuade males from infanticide (East et al., 2003). This behavior further increases variability it is quite common to see single litters whose cubs can be traced to different fathers (Engh et al., 2002). It serves to confuse males and dissuade them from killing cubs that may or may not be their own a complex behavior that shows fo resight and intelligent thought (East et al., 2003). Female choice for less aggressive males and behavior to prevent infanticide may have evolved to counter the extremely high-risk pregnancies these animals go through due to their anatomy (Drea et al., 2002). In a study conducted by Engh and colleagues (2002), the reproductive skew among male hyenas was investigated. One of the major discoveries was that immigrant males had an immense advantage over natal males. Over the 10-year period that one clan of hyenas was observed, it was found that immigrant males sired 97% of the cubs, while natal males only sired 3% (Engh et al., 2002). This explains the males behavior of leaving natal clans and immigrating elsewhere: the cost of rank and access to food are highly outweighed by the reproductive benefits in a non-natal clan (Engh et al., 2002). Within the group of immigrant males, it was found that rank did not have a statistically significant effect on a males reproductive success. In fact, males a few ranks below the highest ranking immigrant had the most success in terms of cubs sired (Engh et al., 2002). In general, tenure the measure of how long an immigrant male had been in the clan was found to be a better indicator of reproductive succ ess. The immigrant males rates of producing cubs increased significantly the longer they remained in the clan, showing a strong correlation between tenure and reproductive success (Engh et al., 2002). Male spotted hyenas are also observed to exhibit behaviors to make themselves more attractive to females. As found in a recent study by East and colleagues (2003), there was no reproductive advantage to harassing, shadowing, or defending females from other competition. In fact, males exhibiting these behaviors were often attacked or chased away by females and other clan members. Instead, males found significantly more reproductive success by fostering relationships with females over longer periods of time a surprisingly complex behavior very close to that of humans (East et al., 2003). Having these friendly relationships also were seen to solidify the males places within the clan hierarchy once again, a very complex sociological behavior, especially when seen outside the order of primates (East et al., 2003). The sophisticated system of hierarchy was even recreated in captivity by a group of previously unranked hyenas collected at infancy (Jenks et al., 1995). Amazingly, these young hyenas grouped themselves in a matrilineal hierarchy, as observed over the course of two generations (Jenks et al., 1995). This structuring occurred despite the lack of maternal input for the first generation, showing that social organization is programmed into the spotted hyenas behavioral patterns (Jenks et al., 1995). While the first generation had little to no maternal interaction to help rank them within the clan, they went on to influence their own offsprings place in the clan hierarchy, just as observed in wild clans (Jenks et al., 1995). The only significant difference between the experimental clan and wild clans was the speed at which the cubs ranks stabilized within the community. Experimental group cubs solidified their place much faster than those in the wild, possibly due to smaller numbers and le ss movement within the clan (Jenks et al., 1995). The spotted hyena is a remarkable animal. It shows extremely complex behavior that leads to sophisticated social structure something that is rarely seen in mammals outside of primates (Jenks et al., 1995). In fact, the matrilineal group structure of hyena clans is very similar to that of Old World primates (Jenks et al., 1995). The sense of organization in this manner is so strong within the hyenas evolved behavioral patterns that matrilineal structure is even seen to spontaneously emerge in isolated hyenas raised in captivity (Jenks et al., 1995). Complex sexual behaviors, such as the females choice of partner based on immigrant status, tenure, and age, seem to promote the creation of this social structure (Engh et al., 2002; East et al., 2003). Carefully nurtured relationships between same- and opposite-sex individuals show the multifaceted interactions between clan members that also contribute to the development of matrilineal organization (East et al., 2003). Female dominance is even supported by biological mechanisms and the altered anatomy of this species (Drea et al., 2002). With further study, the circumstances that led to the evolution of this unique system may soon be uncovered. This will provide insight not only into the spotted hyenas sociological history, but also into that of Old World primates and possibly even that of human beings. It is an exciting prospect that will hopefully emerge within the years to come.

Essay --

The Power of Conformity There are many type of social concepts; however, there is one that I personally experienced through: social conformity. Conformity is a type of social influence involving a change in belief or behavior in order to fit in a group. Growing up as an immigrant is a perfect example for changing me in order to adapt to a new environment. Conformity can also be simply defined as â€Å"yielding to group pressures† (Crutchfield, 1955). Group pressure may vary in many forms such as bullying, persuasion, teasing, or criticism. Conformity is also known as group pressure. The term conformity is often used to describe one side arguing with the other side by a desire to ‘fit in’ or be liked, or because of a desire to be correct, or simply to conform to a social role. The desire to be accepted and belong to a group is every human’s need. However, how does this need affect an individual? There are many researches that include groups can change their members’ thoughts, feelings and behaviors. There are several types of conformity include compliance, internalization and identific...

Ambrose Bierces’ An Occurence At Owl Creek Bridge Essay -- Occurence O

Ambrose Bierces’ Story â€Å"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ambrose Bierces’ story â€Å"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge† tells the story of a confederate secessionist, who is being hanged by Union troops. At the time of the hanging, the soldiers drop him from the bridge. Luckily, just as he falls the rope snaps and the man dives into the â€Å"sluggish stream†. He miraculously takes off his ropes and swims away. When he reaches the bank of the creek, he runs for what seems like forever. He finally reaches home, where his family is waiting so anxiously for him. However, Bierce chooses to surround this intriguing tell with elements that carry visual, concrete, and intangible symbolism. The symbolic elements of â€Å"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge† imply that the protagonist, Peyton Fahrquhar, is out of touch with reality, which evidently leads to the added twist at the end of the story.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Many of the symbols in the story have to do with visual representation. For example, Bierce focuses on one specific color, which is gray. Gray is the color of the Confederate soldiers’ uniforms. It is the also the color the Union soldier wears to deceive Fahrquhar. Gray is the color of the figures he sees in the distance in his delusion. It is also the color of the sharpshooter that misses him. Since gray is mentioned so often, the reader can assume that it has a meaning outside its visual representation. First, the color gray is used to describe the mood of the story. Generally, when one think of the color gray, a poignant feeling arouses. Linking the two, the mood of the story is therefore also distressing. Secondly, the color gray is used to symbolize Fahrquhars’ role: a middle man without much sense or direction. In the story, the first mention of the color is used to describe him. â€Å"He wore a moustache and pointer beard, but no whiskers: his eyes were large and dark grey†¦ † The reader should also notice that Fahrquar is the only one who sees gray, which means the color, represents him. Gray is the intermediate in character and position. Like Fahrquar, who is considered to be in the middle of the situation, only trying to do what he believes is right.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Bierce use of symbolism is far great than the actually concept of the story. He also uses solid or concrete objects to convey his hidden messages. For example his constant mention of the Bridge. Obviously it... ...ot so bad; but I do not wish to be shot. No; I will not be shot; that is not fair.† In Fahrquars’ hallucination, he gets mad at the thought of being shot after he managed to escape his hanging. Depression kicks in when Bierce says â€Å"By nightfall he was fatigued, footsore, and famished. He knew it (his neck) had a circle of black where the rope had bruised it.† Fahrquar is tired and confused. This is a clear sign that death is near, leading him into depression, which sheds light on his impossible endurance. Acceptance occurs when Bierce says, â€Å"†¦he has merely recovered from a delirium†¦ and sees home†¦ all bright and beautiful†¦ † This clearly shows that Fahrquar has accepted what is happening, almost as if he has given up. He finally enters the last stage of his symbolic dying process. Bierce says, â€Å"†¦then all is dark and silent†¦Peyton Fahrquar was dead†¦Ã¢â‚¬    Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge† is riddled with symbolic meaning. Bierce creates a realistic disguise of events until the very end of the story, where he allows the reader to realize that Fahrquars’ escape did not actually occur. He uses symbols to convey the true meaning of this breathtaking story: Perception is Reality.

Australia’s Religious Landscape Post 1945

â€Å"We live in a postmodern world in the sense that no single religion, system or ideology has any convincing claim to be the one voice of truth. We are yet to grasp the full reality that Australia is a pluralistic, multicultural, multi-religious society in which among people of different traditions and with indigenous people is a requirement of social cohesion. In a global world our national identities in no way preclude our responsibilities for the well-being of all humanity and the one earth we share. † – Dr Gerard Hall SMDr Gerard Hall says we now live in a ‘postmodern world’ where ‘no single religion, system or ideology’ can ‘convincingly claim the one voice of truth’. Australia has been long dominated by the Christian faith with the 1911 census reporting 96% of Australians subscribing to any denomination of Christianity. This large percentage of Christians can be attributed to the White Australia policy. However, the 2011 c ensus revealed a decrease of Christians with only 61% aligning themselves with the faith, half of the overseas-born population also reporting a Christian denomination.Non-Christians affiliations and those reporting ‘no religion’ have increased radically since the last census. The number of people reporting ‘No Religion' increased from 15% of the population in 2001 to 22% in 2011. This is most prevalent among younger Australians with 28% of people aged 15-34 reporting they had no religious affiliation. There are over 59 religious traditions present in Australia today. Globalisation has influenced the growth of eastern religions and new age fads in Australian society.Migration has led to an increase in the number of religious adherents in non-Christian faiths such as Buddhism, Sikhism, Taoism and Hinduism. Hinduism has grown exponentially since 1911 at 189%, followed by Islam at 69%, and Buddhism at 48%. Atheism or citizens who have no revealed any religious affilia tion has risen due to scientific advancement, rise of secularism, immigration and births. Along with this there is renewed interest in and awareness of Indigenous spirituality.Due to the ‘pluralistic, multicultural, multi-religious society’ of Australia, multi-faith dialogue is important for the cohesion and harmony of Australian society. Sometimes tensions between religious traditions or against a particular religion result in violence or discrimination. To illustrate this point, ignorant and prejudiced media portrayals of Muslims have encouraged anti-Islamic attitudes and stereotypes despite the peaceful religious teachings of the Koran. Dr Ameer Ali (President of Australian Federation of Islamic Councils) recognised that interfaith dialogue was essential to ‘understand each other’.Similarly, Archbishop George Pell believes that interfaith dialogue must be established to maintain currently peaceful relationships before potential hostilities have a chance to escalate. In 1964, Pope Paul VI recognised the need for interfaith communication, stating that; â€Å"We do not wish to turn a blind eye to the spiritual and moral values of the various non-Christian religions, for we desire to join with them in promoting and defending common ideals in the spheres of religious liberty, human brotherhood, education, culture, social welfare, and civic order.Dialogue is possible in all these great projects, which are our concern as much as theirs and we will not fail to offer opportunities for discussion in the event of such an offer being favourably received in genuine, mutual respect. We readily accept the principle of stressing what we all have in common rather than what divides us. This provides a good and fruitful basis for our dialogue, and we are prepared to engage upon it with a will. â€Å"Multi-faith dialogue assists in keeping peace and social unity in society, especially with organisations such as the NSW Council of Christians and Jews who recognise their common heritage in order to promote understanding and combat anti-Semitism. They organise activities that include an annual Passover demonstration directed to non-Jewish audiences, panel discussions and seminars on current subjects of interest, multi-denominational evenings for poetry and music, Holocaust education and an annual Christian commemorative service for the Holocaust held in the crypt of St Mary’s Roman Catholic Cathedral.Along with interfaith dialogue between Christians and Jews, the NSW Council of Christians and Jews also seek to broaden the interfaith relations with Islam in particular. Some past interfaith activities in Australia include the 2001 Anzac Day service at St. Mary’s Cathedral for Buddhist Monks and Christian Ministers, Centenary of Federation celebrations in Melbourne, Prayer services at Martin Place by the Muslim-Christian Council for peace in Indonesia, Prayer services for September 11, Asian Boxing Day Tsunami and Bali bombings.As Dr Gerard Hall says, in the current ‘global world, our national identities in no way preclude our responsibilities for the well-being of all humanity and the one earth we share’. This statement is illustrated by a number of international councils, one being the World Conference on Religion and Peace – an international council founded by the Buddhist Nichiko Niwano in 1970 that organises bi-annual ‘Heads of Faith Meetings’ that are attended by the leaders of the Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish and Baha’i faiths.The meetings conducted by the World Conference on Religion and Peace provide an opportunity for religious world leaders to exchange ideas and information and establish a working alliance between these religious traditions. The promotion of understanding and the education of interfaith co-operation assists in pursuing social justice issues, for example, Aboriginal reconciliation and rights. Reconciliatio n is the process whereby Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples move towards the future with a relationship based upon mutual recognition, understanding and respect.For this to happen there must be acknowledgement of past mistakes such as land dispossession and the stolen generation in order to make amends, such as restoring Native Title. Reconciliation is a long process which began with the 1967 referendum giving ATSI people the right to vote and the Commonwealth government the authority to make laws in the interest of ATSI people. Additionally, most churches have helped facilitate this reconciliation.The NCCA (National Council of Churches Australia) acknowledge that many of its member churches played a role in culmination of the stolen generations and issued a public statement on the ‘Bringing Them Home’ report making recommendations in support of Reconciliation. The Week of Prayer for Reconciliation began i n 1993 with the goal of providing an interfaith week of prayer encompassing all faiths with the common goal of reconciliation. It is to devote time to prayer, thought and reflection on the soul of a nation and the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.Attempts at reconciliation by various religious denominations have helped to bring out acceptance of the synchronization of Christian and Aboriginal religious traditions; as an example: many Aboriginal clergy incorporate Indigenous symbols and rituals from their own culture to express Christian concepts such as using Indigenous coconut milk instead of wine and damper or yam instead of bread, Christian stories are often retold with an Indigenous slant (instead of fire, they talk about fire sticks), red ochre is used instead of ashes/oil on the forehead and prayers are told in Indigenous languages.Many Christian churches incorporate Aboriginal Ministries and Aboriginal Spirituality into services, particularly Pro testant churches though many people feel that incorporating Aboriginal beliefs into Christianity degrades both. Critics claim that ‘Self-determination’ is now replaced with ‘Main-Streaming’. ‘Practical Reconciliation’ is now the term used rather than a real acknowledgement of past wrongs.The Catholic Church has also made many positive overtures towards Reconciliation starting with Pope John Paul II’s visit to Alice Springs in 1986 who stated that â€Å"there is the need for just and proper settlement that lies unachieved in Australia’ Pope Benedict’s recent address to Australia encouraged ongoing assistance for Reconciliation. In 1998 the Catholic church joined with other churches to issues a statement called ‘Towards Reconciliation in Australian Society – Reconciliation and Aboriginal Australians’.They also pressured for more assistance for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders due to the ongoing psychological trauma of the Protection and Assimilation policies. National Reconciliation Week is a week of Catholic initiatives promoting reconciliation with emphasis on Aboriginal health. Other Christian churches involved in Reconciliation include the Anglican Church who expressed its support for Reconciliation during 1998. It also provides funding to National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ecumenical Commission (NATSIEC) that assists in rebuilding Indigenous communities.Anglicare Australia and the Anglican Board of Missionaries formed the Anglican Reconciliation Working Group which provides accommodation, health care, family support for Indigenous communities and helps fund training of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. The Ecumenical movement Uniting Church formed a Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress in Townsville that works with Indigenous people to promote compensation and healing for past wrongs. The Uniting Church National Assembly has also made a formal apology for its part in the harmful policies in the past and a commitment to a better future.Christian leaders and leaders from other religious faiths united in rejecting the Howard Government’s attempts to weaken the Wik legislation. Their conviction no doubt assisted in changing opinions and rallying support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights. Interfaith dialogue especially between Dreaming and Christianity illustrate the importance of multi-faith communication. There are, however, limitations of interfaith dialogue as critics believe there are important differences between faiths that cannot be overlooked.There is also controversy that religions are trying to change and distort their religious beliefs to attempt to reconcile with other religions. Despite the criticisms of interfaith dialogue it still plays an essential role in Australian society to maintain peace and social cohesion. ————————â₠¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€œ [ 1 ]. The Importance of Inter-faith Cooperation; available from http://www. buddhistinformation. com/importance_of_inter_faith_cooperation. htm [ 2 ]. Pope John Paul II’s public statement at Alice Springs, 1986; available from http://www. austlii. edu. au/au/orgs/car/docrec/relevant/docbook/p7. htm

”The Knife Sharpener” by Bonnie Burnard Essay

The Knife Sharpener a short story written by Bonnie Burnard. This story is very interesting you never know that the knife sharpener will appear as a bad person because he appeared as a good old man who just borrowed a knives to sharpening and said â€Å"Maybe you’ve heard from your neighbours. I come around every March. Do mowers as well† as he was offering to do he mower for her in the beginning. Janet is a mother of three children. She do all the work in the house since her kids are still young to do some of the house work. Erin is six years old eldest child of Janet. The Knife Sharpener is an old man who sharpen knives and do mowers. The story happened in Janet’s place. The story happened during the day. The incident started happening when the knife sharpener took Erin’s hand and brought her somewhere. The story gets more intense when Janet starts panicking and decided to go after Erin and look for her. Janet saw Erin’s scarf on the ground stuccoed corner of a garage twenty yard ahead. Janet saw the knife sharpener talking to Erin in a gentle old man’s voice and Janet took Erin’s hand and questioned the knife sharpener. The knife sharpener said â€Å"Please don’t call the police†. The knife Sharpener by Bonnie Burnard is about the family, intense and it tells us not to trust any stranger and reveals the certain personality of some stranger when the old man took Erin away from her home. Why Janet didn’t call the police? And Why Janet having thoughts whether she’s going to tell about it to her husband or just keep it by herself and not to tell to anyone? The Knife Sharpener might have a bad intension to the family of Janet. The knife sharpener appeared to be a good old man who just a knife to use for sharpening and offered to do their mower so he can go inside the house. He even made Janet’s feelings comfortable around with him and he suddenly changed his mood when Janet said that her eldest is going to be home soon for lunch. The knife sharpener waited for Erin to go out again and reached her hand and brought Erin somewhere. I think that the knife sharpener will going to do something bad to Erin or kidnap Erin since he took her twenty yards away from her home. There is only two possible thing he will do it is either the knife sharpener will rape Erin or he will kidnap Erin.

Play “The Crucible” by Arthur Miller Essay

â€Å"The Crucible† by Arthur Miller is a play set during thte hysteria of the Salem witch trials of 1692. The word â€Å"crucible† is defined as â€Å"a severe test† or â€Å"a container for melting or purifying metals.† The title of this play is incredibly appropriate because the charactersin the play were faced with a great test while attempting to purify their community. WHen faced with a conflict, the citizens of Salem begin to act on basic animal instincts, and their true colors shine through. The word â€Å"crucible† is appropriate because the intention of the court was to purge the town of Salem of any evil beings, but the court only created a way for wrong-doers to go unpunished and those who stayed true to their values be killed. The additional definition of â€Å"crucible† is appropriate because the characters in the play were faced with a choice of doing what was morally and ethically correct or doing what was wrong. For example, John Proctor is tested several times throughout the play. â€Å"Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life†¦I have given you my sould; leave me my name† (Miller, 1166). The audience is able to see Proctor’s true character through this quote. Although he is sentenced to be hanged, he refuses to soil his name or jeopardize his morals, not even in exchange for his life. Mary Warren represents the bulk of the citizens of Salem because she was driven by fear. â€Å"I cannot, they’ll turn on me† (Miller, 1129). When Mary Warren trys to to undo her wrongs, she becomes frightened to stand on her own and risk being accused of witchcraft. Many of the citizens of Salem that were accused of witchcraft sacrificed their morals and their values in order to keep their lives. When the citizens of Salem become scared, they lose their ability to think logically. Many of them lie to save themselves or lie to gain something. The choas brought out each characters true personality.

Explain How Practices That Support Equaity and Inclusion Reduce

Amanda Hopwood Cache Level 2 in Diploma in Children’s Care, Learning and Development Pin/Enrolment Number – 30169038 ULN – 6939676189 Assessor – Jennifer Hughes Assurer – Helen Tweddle SHC 21 Introduction to equality & inclusion in health, social care or children 7 young people settings 1. 1 –Explain what is meant by: Diversity – means is to understand that each child/young person is individual, unique and different i. e. , it could be the differences in race, heritage, customs, beliefs, physical appearance, mental capability.Diversity should be valued and respected as each person are completely different to any other person, even in the examples I have stated above. We need diversity as is gives us different views and opinions. We must value our diversity so we can work together to live a happy life. Equality – means to give all children/young person equal opportunities to achieve their best in the setting. Each child is differ ent so you have to respect that. Some children might need support. You can do this by planning ahead to achieve all aspects of learning and development for all children irrespective of disability, heritage etc.It's about getting the balance between each child. Inclusion – means to ensure all embodies such as children and their families have the right support regardless of their ability to take part in a range of activities in the setting. Inclusion is the process of making this happen. to do this in the setting you must take away all barriers and give each person a warm and welcoming attitude whilst in setting. Discrimination – means a child/young person is treated differently because of their membership such as race, colour, gender, religion, ancestry, origin, disabilities.It involves excluding or restricting child/young person in a membership from opportunities that are available to other children/young person. Children may experience discrimination because of their colour, culture/religion, impairments, gender, race, size because they are disabled or have special educational needs. Children who are discriminated may feel undervalued and may lose confidence. They may find others will have a low expectations of what they can achieve. Others might assume they cannot do an activity as they can't cope.

The car industry brought its decline on itself. Comment, with Essay

The car industry brought its decline on itself. Comment, with reference to the period since 1960 - Essay Example The government tried to play its role in curing the demise of the car industry in Britain. However, it ended up making decisions and policies that adversely affected the state of the British car industry. They include the steel rationing scheme, improper investments and development to support mergers, and unsuccessful regionalization policies. On the other hand, the management practices prevalent in the industry did not help its condition either. There was unsystematic authoritarian leadership, poor integration after mergers, and other improper strategies that also played their role in bringing down the growing car manufacturing industry of Britain. (Church, 1994) This paper will shed light over the ineffective government policies and the poor management that, together, led to the demise of the British car industry. It also discusses some specific cases and examples from the history of Britain’s auto industry and points out where the mistakes were made and how management could have avoided them. Some may argue that the government’s economic policies could have had an adverse affect on the development of the industry. The factors that may have contributed towards the meltdown of the auto industry in UK may include the steel rationing scheme, unsuccessful regionalisation policies by the government and the failure to maintain the development of the newly funded mergers. After the success of the auto industry in the UK, in 1945 the multinationals expanded their factories in order to increase the productivity. The government supported this effort made by the multinationals as it would increase employment in the surrounding areas. But the scarcity of resources such as steel kept the government to keep the supply under their control also known as the steel rationing scheme; this prevented the firms to produce the maximum output. The changes in energy

Lifespan Essay and Journal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Lifespan and Journal - Essay Example In working towards achieving my health and fitness goal I designed a program that adheres to Bandura’s social learning theory. In these regards, it involves his instances of implementing observational or modeling techniques. Bandura developed his social learning theory based on the famed Bobo doll experiments, wherein children were shown an image of a woman punching a bobo doll; the children then entered a room where there was a bobo doll and imitated her actions ("Albert Bandura," 2006). I attempted to incorporate modeling activities into my plan on a more complex level by participating in health and fitness programs that other individuals had participated in that have demonstrated success on their part. I then worked towards modeling their past actions in a conscious way to work towards my goal. Another element of Bandura’s social learning theory I incorporated into my quest to achieve my health and fitness goal was self-regulation. In these regards, Bandura indicates that there are three main steps: 1. Self-observation. We look at ourselves, our behavior, and keep tabs on it. 2. Judgment. We compare what we see with a standard. 3. Self-response. If you did well in comparison with your standard, you give yourself rewarding self-responses. If you did poorly, you give yourself punishing self-responses. These self-responses can range from the obvious (treating yourself to a sundae or working late) to the more covert (feelings of pride or shame) ("Albert Bandura," 2006).