Tuesday, December 31, 2019

Nicaragua And Its Monetary Policy Analysis Essay - 1348 Words

Nicaragua and its Monetary Policy analysis: Monetary policy is the macroeconomic policy laid down by the central bank. It involves management of money supply and interest rate and is the demand side economic policy used by the government of a country to achieve macroeconomic objectives like inflation, consumption, growth and liquidity. The Monetary Policy of a country further contains 3 sub-policies: †¢ The Money Supply Policy: This policy determines the source of credit. In most cases, a central bank of a country acts the source. †¢ The Interest Rate Policy: This policy determines the cost of credit. †¢ The Credit Control Policy: This policy determines the quantum of credit. Monetary Policy works on the fundaments of a money market and LM curve is the locus of equilibrium between the interest rate and income in the money market. LM curve determines the supply side of money and is positively sloped w.r.t to interest rate and income. Like many Latin American countries, Nicaragua is a socialist country and hence, functions with a deficit budget. Deficit, if remained uncontrolled, has the potential to induce inflation in an economy. As in August, 2015, the inflation rate recorded in its economy was 2.70%. However, with its average inflation rate being 9.35% in the period of 1993-2015, it had achieved a highest rate of inflation in September 1993 at 23.99%. (Banco Central de Nicaragua estimated) The central bank of Nicaragua focuses on an objective of sustaining economicShow MoreRelatedThe Reagan Doctrine Of President Reagan1228 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"doctrine† definition is â€Å"A statement of authorized government policy, especially in overseas concerns and military strategy† (â€Å"Doctrine†, n.d.). The expression Presidential doctrine means an ideological platform that a president uses to spread a policy towards a country or region in order to accomplish foreign policy objectives for the United States. Presidents like James Monroe, Harry S. Truman, and Richard Nixon etc. articulated their policies but amongst these executive doctrines, the doctrine of PresidentRead MoreEssay on U.S. Foreign Policy Regarding El Salvador1923 Words   |  8 PagesThe United States of America foreign policy on El Salvador is best explained by President Obama’s approach on Latin America where the United States is focused on economic growth and equality, ene rgy and climate control, and regional and citizen security (Foreign Policy, 2012). This is best explained using the international level of analysis and neo-liberalism where the global structure and economic interdependence provides the foundation of America’s foreign policy. To ensure that one can see the transparencyRead MoreHistory Is Almost Always Written By The Winners1393 Words   |  6 Pagesdetailed his writings that are intended to elicit a thought-provoking question- is our curriculum geared toward immortalizing the great achievements of our nation while keeping the dark, checkered deeds hidden? That is the purpose of his dogma, and this analysis we will uncover what exactly happened that prompted Loewen to release such an argumentative book, as well as weather or not he is right. We will begin by analysing why Lowen wrote this book. From what has been detailed in the introduction, LoewenRead MoreHyperinflation, Its Effects And The Role Of The Government3627 Words   |  15 Pages For example, the first recorded hyperinflation to have occurred was in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries in China (Lui, 1983). In the post-war era, several countries such as Hungary, Weimer Germany, Greece, China, Zimbabwe, Peru, France and Nicaragua have had to deal with this calamity (Boesler, 2013). Most recently, the effects of inflation are being felt in Ukraine (Durden, 2015). Over the past century, hyperinflation has been an observable fact and has been termed a ?pre- and post- World WarRead MoreInternational Trade Causes Negative Effects On Trade Deficits1829 Words   |  8 PagesFig 2 ( BusinessRoundTable, 2015) The above infographic shows percentage of free trade agreement partners against rest of the world. It is common that free trade causes negative effect on trade deficits. But from a high-level analysis, and based on the statistics from U.S. Department of Commerce there was a trade surplus on all trade by United States and its Free Trade Agreement countries in 2012 and 2013. The United States had a record trade surplus for exports of goods manufactured in U.SRead MoreGeorge Kennan: The Long Telegram of 19461862 Words   |  8 Pagesï » ¿George Kennan did not make any detailed policy recommendations in the Long Telegram of 1946, although he made it clear that he did not regard the Soviet Union as the same type of threat as Nazi Germany. He opposed the ideas of National Security Council Memorandum 68 (1950) as a hysterical overreaction, and thought that global containment was a serious strategic error, especially in peripheral regions like Indochina. Unlike Hitler, Stalins aggression and expansion were unplanned and opportunisticRead MoreDomestic and External International Factors o n African Macroeconomic Formulation.4066 Words   |  16 Pagesinfluencing growth, management of macroeconomic is very crucial to economic growth. Appropriate macroeconomic policies are critical for wealth creation, sustainable economic expansion and employment generating investment. Recent improvement in the economic performances of some African countries was underpinned by the improvement in macroeconomic management. However, inefficient macroeconomic policies are the features of many African countries leading to the substantial growth disparities in the AfricanRead MoreMigration, Remittances, Inequality and Poverty the Philippines10368 Words   |  42 Pageshouseholds than for the poorer ones, a finding that is consistent with that in several Latin American countries. Such eyeballing of the data is supported by econometric analysis which further reveals that remittances enhance household savings, spending on education and health care, and help the poor move out of poverty. Anal ysis at the regional level shows that, ceteris paribus, remittances also appear to contribute importantly to regional development, although overall increases in regional incomesRead MoreExploring The Features Of Prostitution And Other Sex Acts3515 Words   |  15 Pagesand high exposure to illegal practices are the main coordinates of a damaged society. The aim of this paper is to analyze the features of prostitution and other sex acts, in order to capture the main problems, screen the existing evidence, assess policies and design new recommendations for preventing and limiting the actual phenomenon. The disruptive power of trafficking for prostitution is firstly visible in the physical and mental states of women, causing both severe sexually transmitted diseasesRead MoreIlly6784 Words   |  28 Pagesand opening new markets in Venezuela. The analysis includes reviews and an extensive research about: First the geography and global information to introduce the country; second, the History since the arrival of the Spaniards. The Political analysis will be explained as much detailed as possible due to its specifics characteristics in the recent decades with the Hugo Chavez’s government. He report draws special attention in the Social analysis is one of the main issues to be reviewed due to

Monday, December 23, 2019

Defining Culture And Self Reflection Paper Essay - 2216 Words

DEFINING CULTURE AND SELF REFLECTION PAPER Sharmaine Pasalo University of Hawai’i at Manoa DEFINING CULTURE AND SELF REFLECTION PAPER An analysis of health management and how my culture intersects health management was done through the completion of addressing a health topic, creating a best practice action plan to address the health topic, creating a concept map, interviewing someone of a different culture as it relates to the health topic and reflecting on my culture and my health management style. Through this process, I was able to determine how my culture affects my health decisions, beliefs, and overall management of health. Health Management Health can be described as â€Å"complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity† (World Health Organization). Health management is the maintenance of the individual’s health on a small scale, and the community and population as a whole on a larger scale. Health management is based on the individual’s participation in health practices that include seeking medical health care, lifestyle choices, an overall belief in one’s health status and on the availability of health care resources. Health Topic The health topic to be addressed is exercise. According to the Centers of Disease Control Prevention, the recommendations for adults as it relates to weekly exercise and physical activity include, at least 2 days of muscle strengthening, along with 150 minutes of moderate intensityShow MoreRelatedA Personal Philosophy Of Education Essay1164 Words   |  5 Pagesafter the act of doing it (Sweitzer, 2003 p.264). I believe self-knowledge of the professor is critical for meaningful learning to occur. Self-knowledge through reflection allows the professor to embrace teaching through the eyes of a scholar; thus providing a diverse learning environment supporting engagement and motivation of the learner. This paper describes a specific academia’s mission and vision and why it resonates with me. This paper also explores my personal philosophy of education, ascertainingRead MoreThe Lecture Of Mission And Culture1035 Words   |  5 PagesA REFLECTION PAPER ON THE LECTURE OF MISSIO N AND CULTURE NOTES ON THE ROAD MORE TRAVELLED: DOING THEOLOGY IN A US CULTURAL CONTEXT Mission and culture have always been inseparable in doing theology in any cultural context. They have always been considered imperatives in the ministry of touching lives. The talk of Fr. John J. Markey, OP on October 12, 2015, at the Catholic Theological Union auditorium had highlighted essential insights and realizations regarding mission and culture in the culturalRead MoreThrough The Looking Glass : Article Review856 Words   |  4 Pagesdemonstrates three possible explanations for self-evaluating the process of ethical decision making. This is a thought provoking article, which explains the ambiguous human perspective on ethical behavior. Although there are no specific studies associated with this article, it does however theorize that there are three specific observations, which best explain work related ethical behaviors. The scholarly article’s hypothesizes that human instincts, cultures, and polarizing pressures between socialRead MoreLearning ( Pbl ) And Work Based Learning1681 Words   |  7 Pageschallenge are Problem based learning (PBL) and work based learning (WBL). Both approaches are learner centred, motivating learners to become self- directed. PBL originated in Canada in the late 1960’s underpinned by constructivist view. Developed for medical students it became a widely used tool for learning (EE and Tan 2009, Hmelo-Silver, 2004). In her paper Hmelo-Silver (2004) discusses the process of PBL, its methodology and the goals it can achieve for both the learner and the facilitator. ButRead MoreCan American People Develop Intimate Relationships Online?1025 Words   |  5 Pagesphysical limitations caused by distance that would have separated people who they were interested in. Americans can log in to their favorite social media platform or dating app and begin to immediately dialogue with anyone that is a reflection of one’s personal ideals and culture. The argument that community has increased still does not answer the question whether or not a true intimate relationship can take place with someone, who is not there physically. It was once thought that people who develop intimateRead MoreConstructivist Learning Theory And Nursing Practice1520 Words   |  7 Pagescombinations of theories to successfully teach adult learners in this ever changing health care system. This paper will highlight the use of Constructivist Learning Theory and its application to nursing practice. Constructivist Learning Theory- Constructivism Constructivist Learning Theory exists under the focus of cognitive learning and has substructures of the concepts of self- efficacy, self- regulation, and metacognition as it defines how adults learn (Billings Halstead, 2012, p. 211). BillingsRead MoreThe Importance Of Guidance For Leaders And Employees1097 Words   |  5 Pagesenvironment for all that can destroy an organization. The purpose of this paper is to provide a sense of guidance for leaders and employees to employ when faced with volatile situations within their work environment. Such will foster team building and empowerment with quality patient care executed. This paper reflects on conflict resolution that is guided by evidence –based principles in order that resolution is a reflection of the high standards set forth by evidence-based practices. A case studyRead MoreIs Education An Agent Of Socialization? Essay1607 Words   |  7 Pagessupport his claim. Sociology A sociologist would approach the topic of academic stress by researching cultures in America as its object. One would need to analyze the modern American culture as an entire country, the culture of American school settings, and the culture of the American teenage population overall. As sociologists, it is necessary to delve into history, and see how these three cultures have originated and changed over time as agents of socialization. I would look at the relationshipsRead MorePersonality Reflection649 Words   |  3 PagesPersonality Reflection Paper Ronald Aliangan PSY/250 September 13th, 2014 My personality can be defined as an amiable person that really cares about others. I am outgoing, sensitive, emotional, and direct. I have been known to put other people’s needs in front of my own. I am not usually short on things to say. Also I love being around friends and family, but also really love to have my alone time. I have two older sisters that ironically have very different personalitiesRead MoreA Reflective Plan For Fishing Technologies Pty Ltd1699 Words   |  7 Pages1 INTRODUCTION Throughout this paper will be a clear reflective plan for Fishing Technologies Pty Ltd, which is a new venture inspired by an innovative concept for creating modern and digitalised fishing products. This will begin with an executive summary of the business idea to include details of the location, industry, and marketing segments for the product initiative. Following this includes the business vision and mission statements, both with objectives aligned towards the businesses future

Sunday, December 15, 2019

How to ‘save’ Ghana from Petrodollars Free Essays

Introduction Resources haven’t always been linked to wealth, as the management of resources in a country is always subjected to politicking. Ghana’s resources have been recently discovered, thus space for maneuver regarding how to make the best out of the natural supplies is given to the government. What is known so far is that â€Å"oil discoveries in many countries have led to the erosion of democratic processes and insitutional structures† (Van Gyampo, 2011: 49). We will write a custom essay sample on How to ‘save’ Ghana from Petrodollars? or any similar topic only for you Order Now In other words, wealth generation does not equal resource abundance, and, by any means, an increase in the standard of living of the entire population. Moreover, the Ghanian exampe is illustrative on account of the government increasing its opacity. This can result in higher level of corruption and social unrest, as an inequality in the wealth distribution can generate social pressure. Countries with abundant resources and weak political systems are prone to having an authoritarian government or to face social disruption. The pre-oil Ghana was â€Å"praised for its steady progress toward democratic consolidation† (Gyimah-Boadi Prempeh, 2012: 94), with five elections being held under democratic principles, and autonomy being guaranteed to key institutions such as universities, mass-media, etc. Economically speaking, Ghana has an estimated influx of Petrodollars of about USD 1 billion (Kapela, 2009) per year, which constitues a great potential for development. This should be the focus of further research on the impact of oil discovery on Ghana, as development plans have the potential of generating economic wealth in a sustainable manner. The main question is ‘how to generate wealth from resource abundance, and how to invest Petrodollars in something sustainable for Ghana?’ Research proposal The paper should focus on oil industry as a generator of wealth in Ghana, and try to tackle ways in which this could be made possible. Classically, transforming oil money in wealth is done through infrastructure development. What is more, the type of infrastructure that has to be developed differs from country to country. Nonetheless, even if infrastructure of any type is built, this doesn’t automatically create sustainability (Wood, 2007). This is caused by the contextuality determined by political and social factors. Of particular importance is to note that Ghana’s democracy is fundamentally different than other African counterparts dependent on oil exportation, with a political system that has developed into a relatively stable one. This creates a fertile ground for sustainability projects. First, the disseration should focus on researching and outlining the modes in which the Ghanian government can use the influx of Petrodollars to enhance development, despite other bad examples in the region. Here are some areas of development that can attract funding from oil industry. a) start-ups: Economic growth is striclty related to entrepreneurship. Can Ghanian government find a way to foster a capitalistic climate that can potentially generate wealth b) infrastructure development: When we talk about infrastructure, we think about motorways construction, airport connectivity, etc. In fact, developing countries struggle to finalize those projects and often find that the expected positive externalities are overwhelmed by the negative ones. Roads can prove to be good connectors between two cities, but don’t generate wealth per se. A type of infrastructure with positive outcomes is IT infrastructure. c) education: Sustainability is about creating a long-lasting positive effect over the next generations. Education is an important node of the wealth-creation network. The main concern is whether Ghana has the political will to use oil money for projects that can create wealth organically. Therefore, the thesis should approach the topic of Petrodollars and how Ghana can be the first positive example of good resource management in Africa. This would relate oil industry to the broader picture of wealth creation and development. How to tackle the research topic? The methodological apparatus that should be employed here is diverse, however discretion is advisable. First of all, an extensive literature review on Ghana’s oil industry should be done in order to understand the underpinnings of the ‘newly created economy’. Second, the literature review should seek to understand the political system and how this was altered by the resource profusion. A comparative approach should be used here, especially a comparison between Ghana and Nigeria regarding institutional redesign in the light of resource abundance. Second, there are more ways in which the study can be developed. a) an empirical analysis of economic indicators that measure wealth and economic growth post and ante the oil discovery. This can take the form of an econometrical analysis that should test the correlation between Petrodollars cahsflows and development. The most accessible option is to run a multiple regression having as the dependent variables the economic growth, standard of living, and income inequality, and independent variables, revenues from oil indsutry, tax revenues, etc. Two patterns can arise. First, a positive correlation between the formers and the latters, thus the Ghanian government can be rendered as a good example of ‘oil revenues manager’. Second, a negative correlation can be found, confiriming the theory of fragiles democracy falling apart because of resource abundance. In any case, the assumptions made should be supported by a rigorous theoretical framework. b) a fieldwork approach using structured interviews with local entrepreneurs that have benefited from or were disadvatanged by the emergence of the oil industry. If this approach is taken, a good guide can be provided by Hart (2007). This method can provide rich data about the micro implications of oil industry in Ghana and can allow for ground-up theoretical development. Conclusions and recommendations The discovery of the oil field in Ghana is still recent, thus not a lot of academic writing has focused on it. There are still many areas left unexplored, some of them presented above. The recommendation is to focus on oil industry as an agent of change that has the power, in the right hands, to drive economic growth and wealth creation. Also, Ghana is a particular example in Africa, therefore careful attention should be given to details such as political stability and institutional systems. The author should rely, if possible, on local access to information, and use the local language to bring to light some new information that otherwise would be impossible to discover. The recommended design of the research is a grounded theory approach, where the author will attempt to use a mix of secondary data analysis (e.g. Official documents, public discourses of government regarding oil industry, etc.) and structured interviews with local entrepreneurs. References Van Gyampo, R.E. (2011), Saving Ghana from Its Oil: A critical Assessment of Preparations so Far Made, Africa Today, vol. 57, no. 4, pp. 48-69; Gyimah-Boadi, E., Kwasi Prempeh, H. (2012), Oil, Politics, and Ghana’s Democracy, Journal of Democracy, bol. 23, no. 3, pp. 94-108; Hart, K. (2007), Small-scale entrepreneurs in Ghana and development planning, The Journal of Development Studies, vol. 6, no. 4 Kapela, J.M. (2009), Ghana’s new oil: cause for jubilation of prelude to the resource curse, Master’s project, Duke University Wood, T. (2007), The Natural Wealth of Nations: Transformation of Oil- and Gas-Producing Economies, Cisco White Paper, 2007 How to cite How to ‘save’ Ghana from Petrodollars?, Essay examples

Saturday, December 7, 2019

THE PRINCESS OF ELIS Essay Example For Students

THE PRINCESS OF ELIS Essay A monologue from the play by Moliere NOTE: This monologue is reprinted from The Dramatic Works of Moliere, Vol. II. Ed. Charles Heron Wall. London: George Bell Sons, 1898. EURYALUS: Alas! my dear Arbates, if for a while I defied the power of Love, he takes now full vengeance! If you but knew what sufferings are torturing my heart, even you would wish that I had never loved. For see where my destiny leads me! She whom I so ardently love is the Princess of Elis. You know what pride is hidden under her divine charms: how it makes her resist all feelings of love; how she shuns, during these days of brilliant rejoicings, the society of that crowd of admirers attracted here with the hope of winning her. Ah! how untrue it is that the one we are destined to love, charms us at first sightthat the first glance kindles in our breast that passion to which we are destined from our birth! On my return from Argos I passed through this place and then saw the Princess. I looked upon her and all her charms as one contemplates a fine statue. I quietly beheld her dazzling youth, but the sight brought no trouble to my heart. I returned to the shores of Ithaca in perfect pe ace of mind, and lost even for two years all remembrance of her. Then, rumours of the scorn with which she treated every offer of homage reached my court. It was said that her proud soul had a most unconquerable aversion to the bonds of marriage; and that with a bow in her hand, a quiver on her shoulder, a second Diana, she frequented the woods, cared for nought but the chase, and let all the youth of Greece sigh for her in vain. We cannot wonder too much, Arbates, at the freaks of passion in our heart, nor at the strange workings of fate! The fame of her haughty coldness gave rise in my soul to unknown feelings which I could not master, and which her presence and beauty had failed to call forth. Her well-known contempt for love had the secret power of bringing back all her features to my remembrance, and of making me look back at her charms with new eyes. I formed in my mind such a noble and beautiful image of her, I pictured to myself so much pride and such pleasure if I could but triumph over her coldness, that my heart, dazzled by the splendour of such a conquest, saw the glory of its liberty vanish away. In vain I tried to resist the attraction; its charm took such hold upon my senses that, urged on by an irresistible power, I sailed in all haste from Ithaca. Here, however, I conceal my ardent passion under the desire of appearing at these renowned sports, to which the illustrious Iphitas, father of the Princess, has invited most of the princes of Greece. What would it serve me to declare my love, Arbates? Should I not draw on myself her haughty disdain, and rank myself among those submissive princes whom she considers her enemies from the moment they have declared themselves her lovers? The sovereigns of Messenia and Pylos pay useless homage to her, and the fame of their great virtues is in vain seconded by faithful deference. This repulse of their love makes me conceal in silence all the violence of mine. When I consider the fate of these famous rivals, I feel myself already condemned, and in her contempt for them I read my own sentence.

Friday, November 29, 2019

Comparing and Contrasting Religions Essays - Monotheism, God

Some ways Christianity,Judaism,Islam,Buddhism,and Hinduism are alike and different are; Christianity,Judaism,and Islam are all alike by they all believe that God is active in history,guiding and teaching his people.Chrisianity and Judiasm are different by Judiasm believes that there is one God just like Christians,but they don't believe that this one God consist of 3 "persons". Also Christianity and Jusaism both believe in the Bible but the Hebrew Bible has the old testament and The Torah. The Christian Bible has the old and the new testament. Buddhism is different from the other religions. It is not based on the reltionship between humanity and God. Buddhist do not believe in a personal creater God. Hinduism is different from other Faith's by, it has no founder, single teacher, or and prophtets. Its not a single Religion. Its the practices of varieties of different religious groups that which comes out of India. Islam is different because they believe that there is only one God but, he's called the Allah.

Monday, November 25, 2019

Jean Chretien essays

Jean Chretien essays Jean Chrtien's greatest asset as Canada's twentieth prime minister is his long years of experience in Parliament and Cabinet. In government or in opposition, he has served with six prime ministers, held twelve ministerial positions and sat in Parliament for a total of twenty-seven years. When it comes to the game of politics, no one knows better the players and the strategies. The eighteenth child of a paper mill machinist, Joseph Jacques Jean Chrtien was born in Shawinigan, Quebec in 1934, sharing with Canada's first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, the same birthday of January 11. Although his academic achievements were modest, Chrtien's parents were determined to give him good education and he was sent to the classical college in Trois-Rivires. After graduating, he attended Laval University, where he studied law. He was called to the Bar in 1958 and set up his law practice in the working-class district of Shawinigan North. Chrtien had demonstrated an interest in p olitics from a young age. His father was a Liberal organizer and by the age of fifteen, Chrtien was helping to distribute pamphlets and attending political rallies. At Laval he joined the campus Liberal Club. Quebec Liberals were an endangered species in the 1950s; the Union Nationale had dominated Quebec politics for more than a decade, and in 1957, the Conservatives won federally. Nevertheless, Chrtien persevered, campaigning for Liberal candidates in both provincial and federal elections. By 1960, he was principal organizer for Jean Lesage, leader of the provincial Liberal party, in the election that made him Quebec Premier that year. In 1963, Chrtien was asked to run as the Liberal candidate for St-Maurice-Laflche in the federal election. The incumbent was a Crditiste who had won the previous election with a margin of 10 000 votes, nine months earlier. In a hard-fought campa...

Friday, November 22, 2019

The Pyschology of Everday Life . 2000 word portfolio consisting of the Essay

The Pyschology of Everday Life . 2000 word portfolio consisting of the following Assesment 1 - Applying psychology to ever - Essay Example In today’s material and media driven society, it has become important to have a fit and shapely body if one is to enjoy a healthy self image. Hence, currently the goal of my life is to reduce weight and to achieve a desired shape with the help of exercise and healthy diet. However, it is not as easy as it seems. After referring to different studies in the field of psychology, ayurveda and spirituality, I realized that being overweight is not just a physical problem. The tendency of overeating and accumulating fats lies in the psychological and emotional make up of a person. This means that if one has to achieve a perfect weight and a shapely body, then one has to change not only the eating habits but also the psychological aspects of the personality. Hence, to become a happier person in life, what is more important than reducing weight is to gain a healthy self image, emotional clarity and peaceful relationship with ‘self’, because one can achieve happiness only w hen one is at peace with the ‘self.’ The Root Of Problem Happiness is the most important aspect of a fulfilling life. People feel worthy and content only when they are happy with themselves. Sadly, instead of attaching happiness with the internal feelings and personality, it is related to appreciation, social success and social acceptance. Hence, people become happy only when they get appreciated and accepted by people around them. However, this leads to a major problem as it makes people depend on others for their happiness. Instead of doing things that make them happy, people start following the goals and ‘living standards’ that are set by others for them. This leads to misery and self destructive behavior pattern (Chopra, 1994, p. 42). Genuine physical beauty and emotional happiness can be achieved only when a person practices self-acceptance (Chopra, 1994, p. 42). However, self-acceptance does not come easily. The idea of ‘perfect life’ and ‘perfect body’ is shaped by the television and print media and not on the basis of self knowledge. However, it is necessary to understand that every human being is unique and hence, has a unique body and mind system (Chopra, 1994, p. 18). If a person tries to copy other people’s weight pattern or food habits, then he becomes vulnerable to losing his individuality and health. Hence, the healthier way to reduce weight is to understand the root cause of the problem and try to treat it rather than trying to reduce the weight only through exercise and diet. However, to analyze and understand the root of the problem, it is necessary to look at the problem through the psychological perspective. The problem of me being overweight is not a recent one. I have observed that this is an intermittent problem since my childhood. I have never been an obese child. However, I do have a tendency to gain weight when I go through stressful situations in life. This might be because I also tend to eat when I am tense or feel emotionally closed. This shows that it is my emotional pattern that makes me to eat unhealthy food and become overweight as I am not able to control binging on fast food. Hence, my problem is emotional based and not body based (Chopra, 2004, p.103). It has been found that for people who are emotionally dissatisfied and unhappy, ‘food’ becomes a source of satisfaction and happiness (Chopra, 2004, p.103). The habit of binging and overeating comes from the feeling of emptiness in the

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

History_of_middle_East Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

History_of_middle_East - Essay Example The modern Afghanistan owes its beginning at the hands of a Pashtun king, Ahmad Shah Duranni who started ruling the region from 1747. Afghanistan is a country constituted of multiple ethnic and linguistic groups. Pashtun tribes contributing to 42 percent mainly cover the region. The Tajiks who contribute to 27 percent follow the Pashtuns. Following the Tajiks are the Hazaras and Ujbek tribes contributing to 9 percent respectively. The study of Afghanistan’s history has a strong linkage to the Soviet invasion over the region. Russia’s interference over the region of Afghanistan has its inception from the treaty of bilateral friendship made in December 1978. However, the ruler of Afghanistan during 1978, Hafizullah Amin reiterated against on Russia’s growing interference over their political matters, which led to the tarnishing of the relationships between Afghanistan and Russia. Subsequently as an act of revenge, Russia sent troops by air, which invaded Kabul on D ecember 24, 1979. The invasion started with the assassination of Hafizullah Amin and the rise of Babrak Karmal, an exiled Parcham leader. However, Russia’s intention of establishing a Communist government in Afghanistan started facing serious threats from the Afghan communities. The Mujahideens or the Afghan fighters started making life miserable for the Russians, as they were restricted only to the urban centers. These, Afghan fighters backed by American support started gaining grounds to combat the invading Russian troops. By the end of 1985, the Mujahideens formed a guerilla outfit to launch full-blown war against the Russian army. Finally, in May 1986 the Soviet troops were ousted with the fall of Babrak Karmal. The end of the Karmal regime gave rise to the chief of Afghanistan’s secret police, Muhammad Najibullah to become the next Afghan leader. (Background Note: Afghanistan, 2010). The Mujahideen or the Afghan fighters had

Monday, November 18, 2019

Music and Soundscapes Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Music and Soundscapes - Research Paper Example That simply illustrates the power of the musical score, or the music that is played in the background of a scene as action takes place (Goodykoontz & Jacobs, 2011). The clip from the film â€Å"The Mask,† benefitted most from the power of sound effects. In general, rompy comedy clips do use a lot of exaggerated sound effects to enhance the humor in the scene and basically, to cue the laughter from the audience. The sound effects from the clip no doubt exaggerated the aspects of the scene but in a good way. The last category of sound is dialogue. This is simply the conversation that goes on among, and sometimes within, the characters (Goodykoontz & Jacobs, 2011). In my opinion, this is also the part that turns off most men from â€Å"chick flicks,† with the clip from â€Å"When Harry Met Sally† to stress my point (Ladies, we get enough of that from you at home so imagine what two hours of that will do to

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Relevance of Lead Apron in Medical Imaging Profession

Relevance of Lead Apron in Medical Imaging Profession Introduction Lead aprons are available in the healthcare facilities to provide protection from unnecessary exposure of X-radiation to the patients and workers during radiology procedures usually done for diagnostic purposes. Body is shielded by the protective garment called lead apron from the harmful radiation during the medical imaging. Lead apron is found to be effective in protecting from radiation exposure only when it is worn properly. It is used in a safe and properly inspected environment (Lead Apron Policy, 2012). Protective aprons of 0.25mm lead are worn, while performing fluoroscopy whose body is exposed to 5mR/hr or more. Individuals expected to wear lead aprons or similar radiation protection instruments must inspect these instruments visually for any signs of damage before using them (Lead Apron Policy; California code of regulations, 2012). Principles of Lead Apron Advantages of lead apron It is observed to be effective and appropriate in protecting 95 percent of 80 kVp X-rays. As lead apron causes pain and stress to the back muscles back strain is avoided by wearing a skirt apron around the abdomen. In performing fluoroscopic procedures, wearing lead apron of lead equivalence 0.25mm to 0.5mm is found to decrease scattered X-rays by 95 percent. A thyroid collar is used along with lead apron and it is not required in the case of imaging patients. Every occupation worker exposed to fluoroscopic units higher than 5mrem/hr should wear lead apron. The dose rates that are higher than 5mrem/hr are measured within six feet of the table and it includes the place occupied by fluoroscopist (Lead Apron Policy, 2012). Disadvantages of lead apron Lead apron is not sufficient for protecting 111In or 131I. No shielding is provided for the patients by the lead apron for 137Cs or 131I therapy. In these patients, heavy portable shields are available. Shields are provided for brachytherapy patients in the radiation oncology department. Shields for radioactive iodine therapy patients are provided by health physics department (Lead Apron Policy, 2012). Inventory policy and lead apron inspection According to the joint commission standards, annual inspections have to be performed on the medical equipment by the healthcare organizations. Lead apron inspection and inventory are performed by Stanford hospital Clinics, Lucile Packard Children’s hospital and VA Palo Alto Healthcare system. Some of the recommendations in the apron inspection policy are looking for sagging and deformities or any visible damage, performing annual tactile and visual inspection and holes and cracks are identified by radiography and fluoroscopy. It is important to use manual settings and low technique factors during fluoroscopic examination. It is not recommended to use automatic brightness control as it will drive up the high voltage and tube current, which might result in exposure of unnecessary radiation to the operator and the wear (Lead Apron Policy, 2012). Lead apron is discarded, if the inspection reveals that there is a defect larger than 15 sq. mm on the apron parts shielding an organ or if there is any defect larger than 670 sq. mm along the seam or in the back of the apron and in thyroid shields with defects larger than 11 sq. mm (Lead Apron Policy, 2012). How can the affected technical personnel be protected from the radiation? It is not necessary for the technical personnel to stay closer to the patient in the case of radiography, general computerized tomography and mammography. Staying distant from the patient will prevent the personnel to receive the scattered X-rays from the patient. Structural shielding can also be placed in between the patient and the personnel to avoid the X-rays reaching the personnel. When the personnel are closer to the patient in fluoroscopic examinations as well as in image guided interventions, distance and structural shield will not be able to stop the scattering of the X-rays. In such cases, protective clothing like aprons, spectacles, table- mounted protective curtains, ceiling suspended protective screens and thyroid shields have to be used by the personnel (JL Heron et al., 2010). Based on the lead equivalence and X-ray energy, an apron will terminate 90 percent or more of the incident scattered radiation. The protective aprons are available in various thicknesses and shapes starting from front-only apron to a full coat. The front-only apron will be effective, if the person wearing it is facing the source of the scattered radiation (JL Heron et al., 2010). Radiological workloads differ for various specialities. The concerned protective tools required by a particular department are specified by a radiation protection expert or a medical physicist. The person with high workload in the cardiac laboratory must utilize all the protective tools, while a person in the orthopedic suite might require a front-only apron. If the person is working closer to the patient during imaging and wears an apron, a dosimeter that is fixed under the apron will estimate exposure of rays to the shielded portion and will not properly estimate the exposure of organs and tissues present outside the apron. Two dosimeters fixed inside and outside of the apron will give a good estimate of the effective dose to be used (JL Heron et al., 2010). How far are the lead aprons protective against ionizing radiation? Research studies were done to analyze the qualitative and quantitative aspects of lead aprons with the help of various methods. Eighty five lead aprons were collected from various departments in the hospital and from the district polyclinics where radiation exposure was present. They were collected and brought to the radiology clinic of the hospital to assess their protective nature. Aprons were identified based on the number of years they were used by the personnel, the units from where they have been obtained, number of personnel by whom they were worn, the model, the material by which they are made of and the thickness of lead in the apron (O Oyar and A Kislalioglu, 2012). X-rays were delivered such that 35X35 cm wide area of the lead apron is exposed to the radiation. There was 110cm distance between tube focus and lead apron. The images on the plates exposed on the back of the apron are transferred to films and these films are later evaluated with the help of scratches, cracks, rips and defects that might be present on the lead aprons (O Oyar and A Kislalioglu, 2012). As per the standard method, holes greater than 2mm diameter and cracks longer than 4mm were considered as destruction criteria. The aprons exposed with the same criteria were allotted for dosimeter testing by the ratio of ray absorption. The absorption features were assessed using two tests such as scattering X-rays on the apron directly and indirectly. In both direct and indirect methods, same parameters were used for estimating the radiation by fixing the dosimeters in the front as well as at the back of apron. The doses were evaluated and the absorptions were calculated. The base for apron measurements, ten protective aprons with radiation permeability and various lead thicknesses, Turkish standards institution documents approved quality and durability were chosen. Aprons that were not used before were used as controls. The analyzed aprons were measured individually and the results were noted down (O Oyar and A Kislalioglu, 2012). The results have shown that lead is the material used for radiation protection. Among double-sided lead aprons, skirt-vest lead aprons and frontal protection lead aprons, the frontal protection apron is mostly used. Evaluating the cleanliness of the aprons, 23 were clean and the remaining were either little or too dirty. No significant association was observed between the apron destruction criteria and apron cleaning methods. Evaluating the overall condition of the apron, 45 aprons were in good condition and the remaining was either slightly or extremely worn out (O Oyar and A Kislalioglu, 2012). Highest radiation permeability was observed in extremely worn out aprons and in aprons that were in decent condition. The apron that was worn out very little is least permeable compared to the extremely worn out and those in good condition. Among 58 aprons, 26 were destroyed due to cracks, 14 due to tears and holes, and 18 due to tears. In all these aprons, radiation permeability was more than normal. No significant relationship was observed between radiation permeability and internal structural features of protective lead aprons or total number of apron users. Destruction criteria were significantly associated with apron models. Frontal protection lead apron model was destroyed most often (O Oyar and A Kislalioglu, 2012). The exposure dose was analyzed as 996.1 micro grays on average. For 0.25mm lead aprons, the exposure dose was 51.59 micro grays on average. For 0.5mm lead aprons, exposure dose was 9.891 micrograys on average. Among the indirect measurements, scattered radiation value measured at the distance of 50cm was 2.1 R/h. The indirect radiation measured for 0.25mm lead equivalent apron was evaluated as 1.85 micro grays and that for 0.5mm lead apron was evaluated as 1 microgray (O Oyar and A Kislalioglu, 2012). Some folds and sags were observed on the protective layers of the aprons. Significant radiation permeability difference was not observed between folded aprons and non-folded aprons. The protected dose was measured as 60.20+/-22.96 micro grays for unfolded 0.5mm lead equivalent aprons. The protected dose was 50.36+/- 22.96 micro grays for folded 0.5mm aprons, 50.36+/- 22.96 micro grays for 0.25mm lead equivalent aprons. For folded 0.25mm aprons, the dose was evaluated as 46+/-19.05 micrograys (O Oyar and A Kislalioglu, 2012). Discussion The aprons that were used for protecting against scattered ionizing radiation are made using lead embedded in rubber fabric, which is the mixture of lead-rubber or lead-vinyl. These aprons possess the thickness of 0.25mm to 0.5mm. They are costly and are of great importance when used and stored properly. It is an expert view that these aprons are not often preserved and taken care of, and they are folded carelessly, which could be reasons for them to lose protective ability. The research study first done in Turkey by Oyar and Kislalioglu in a quality certified hospital with a control standard and the measurements were taken for quantitative and qualitative radiation exposure values from the protective lead aprons (O Oyar and A Kislalioglu, 2012). It is estimated that 0.5mm thick lead aprons will be able to absorb higher than 90 percent of irradiation at the dose of 150kVp. The similar apron must be able to absorb higher than 99 percent of the irradiation dose at 70kVp (Radiation issue notes, 2008). In some of the studies on absorption ratio of protective aprons, research has revealed that either indirect or direct X-ray absorption ratio of aprons must be measured separately (Christodoulou EG, 2003; Muir S, 2005). Though the actual purpose of lead apron is to protect against indirect X-radiation, in the study done by Oyar and Kislalioglu, the results from direct radiation exposure measurements might be more beneficial in the evaluations due to wider spectrum width. Direct measurements were accepted to provide better results from the evaluations of ray absorption by the lead aprons. If lead aprons are not stored properly, they will lose the protecting quality and radiation protection ability is reduced for that apron gradually. The storage racks for lead aprons are available in various styles and configurations to fulfill the necessities of the medical facility (Universal medical, 2014). Medical professionals interested to wear lead aprons or other radiation protection instruments must have their protective garments checked well for any damages like rips and tears, cracks in the lead lining and sagging lead before their use. Proper lead apron storage will extend the apron life by preventing the lead lining damage and the external fabric damage. Lead aprons have to be hung by the apron hangers instead of folding them. Damages can result even if the apron storage is incorrect. Organizing the aprons properly will make the tracking process and the State or Joint commission inspection easier. Inspection of aprons will improve their organization (Universal medical, 2014). Usually, it is a common practice to place half apron at the back of the patient during the erect chest radiograph to protect the patient from radiation dose from tube leakage and room scatter. Most of the back scatter from the patient is a part of the internal scatter that might affect gonads and other tissues. Half apron will have least effect from patient dose and they make the patients to realize that precautions taken will protect them from unnecessary exposure (Lead garments (Felmlee JP et al., 1991). Use of lead shield is made mandatory for gonadal protection in most of the X-ray departments. If the gonads are present nearer the primary X-ray beam, gonadal shielding is very much necessary. Even if the X-ray field is not near the gonads, gonadal shield is given as the deterrent for the pediatric patients. According to the national recommendations associated with shielding of patients from radiation exposure during imaging, lead aprons were not significantly reducing radiation dose. Dental radiation policies indicate that implementing all the routine precautions will not demand the use of lead aprons on the patient. Later, lead aprons were considered as reducing the radiation dose, from several diagnostic X-ray procedures, to the reproductive organs. Radiation can cause germ cell mutations which might be carried to the next generations. Lead aprons have a precautionary role in reducing the radiation dose (Felmlee JP et al., 1991). The protective clothing worn by the radiographers consists of lead and other metals like tungsten, barium, tin and antimony. The clothing will help in shielding the personnel from radiation. The metals in the radiation protective clothing are equivalently mixed with polyvinyl chloride or synthetic rubber. Sheets of nylon fabric coated with urethane are placed against the side of lead impregnated rubber in between the two and five sheets of metal-impregnated rubber or PVC. These materials are cut as a pattern and sewn to create a protective garment. The manufacturers of these garments alter the sheet number, metal percentage, rubber or PVC grade and the metal mixture affecting the durability, weight, flexibility and radiation absorption efficiency (Felmlee JP et al., 1991). Normally, lead apron is not used for the patients undergoing medical procedures associated with radiation as the area of interest will not be protected. Lead aprons are mostly recommended for those who are exposed to the radiation by being in their occupation. If the apron is worn between the direct X-ray beam and the patient, then 90 percent of the rays are prevented from entering the patient’s body. Therefore, it is not practical for putting apron on the body part that is of interest to the physician (Felmlee JP et al., 1991). As per the standards put forward by the Joint Commission, healthcare organizations have to perform inspections on the medical instrumentation along with the lead aprons. Health department of State also should have a regulation for inspecting the lead aprons. Titanium is used as the shielding material in the titanium aprons. Other materials used in the aprons are barium and bismuth. The shielding properties of the material can be assessed by their mass coefficient and linear attenuation coefficient. Mass attenuation coefficient for the elements is found by physical reference data website of National institute of standards and technology (Felmlee JP et al., 1991). Conclusion As the X-ray imaging is being used continuously all through the world, this technology has created new challenges for occupational protection for the medical staff from radiation. In many of the X-ray procedures, it is necessary for the medical staff to stay closer to the patients, while performing the imaging. Therefore, there is potential for the staff to get exposed to the radiation and it has become extremely important for them to implement certain restrictions to prevent themselves from radiation exposure. Lead aprons decrease the radiation dose to the gonads from various diagnostic X-ray procedures. Radiation can cause mutations in the reproductive cells, which might be transferred to the future generations. Protective clothing worn by the radiographers consists of lead and other metals, like tungsten, barium, tin and antimony. These metals are mixed with polyvinylchloride to create a protective garment. The number of sheets, metal percentage, rubber grade and metal mixture in different ratios will show impact on the flexibility, durability, radiation absorption, weight and efficiency of the protection sheets. Lead aprons are highly effective in absorbing diagnostic X-rays to the body parts shielded by the apron. The effectiveness is energy dependent and averages to about 90 to 95 percent. Irrespective of whether the radiation personnel have worn the lead apron or not, the exposure allowed on the body is ruled by exposure limits. Apart from the lead aprons, mobile shielding is also helpful in protecting the body from radiation. References [1] Christodoulou EG, Goodsitt MM, Larson SC, Darner KL, Satti J, Chan HP. Evaluation of the  transmitted exposure through lead equiv aprons used in a radiology department, including the  contribution from backscatter. Med Phys 2003; 30:1033–1038. [2] Felmlee JP, McGough PF, Morin RL, Classic KL. Hand dose measurements in interventional  radiology. Health Phys 1991; 60(2):265-267. Retrieved from  http://hps.org/publicinformation/ate/faqs/leadgarmentsfaq.html# [3] John Le Heron, Renato Padovani, Ian Smith, Renate Czarwinski. Radiation Protection of  Medical Staff. European journal of Radiology. 2010; 76:20-23. [4] Kevin Jaquith. 5 reasons why you should use lead apron storage racks. Universal Medical.  2014. Retrieved from http://blog.universalmedicalinc.com/5-reasons-why-you-should-use- lead-apron-storage-racks/ [5] Lead Apron policy. Radiation protection guidance for hospital staff. Prepared for Stanford  hospital and Clinics, Lucile Packard children’s hospital and Veterans affairs Palo Alto Health  care system 2010. [6] Muir S, McLeod R, Dove R. Light-weight lead apronslight on weight, protection or  labelling accuracy? Australas Phys Eng Sci Med 2005; 28:128–130. [7] Orhan Oyar, Arzu Kislalioglu. How protective are the lead aprons we use against ionizing  radiation? Diagn Interv Radiol. 2012; 18:147-152. [8] Proper selection, care, quality control and disposal of lead aprons. Radiation issue notes  2008.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Personal Narrative: How Society Shaped Me Essay -- Social Group Neighb

Personal Narrative: How Society Shaped Me What is society and how did it help shape me into the person I am today? First, society is the state of living in organized groups of people. These organized groups of people are the ones that made me who I am today and will continue to shape me, as I grow older. My version of society is white middle class people who grow up going to catholic schools. These white middle class people are only associated with other white middle class people, and very seldom venture out of this little society. As stupid as that sounds to not associate with other people it is true. The reason this is true is because of where I live, where I go to school, and who my friends are. I guess it is just like Emerson said, â€Å"the virtue in most request is conformity.† So, the three social forces that have played the biggest impact on my life are my community, my friends (family) and my education. I have lived in the same neighborhood my entire life, a neighborhood full of white middle class families, with the exception of one middle class African American fam...

Monday, November 11, 2019

Graphic communication, Essay

In this task I will be identifying the many reasons to why people choose to communicate, and explain how communication may affect relationships within a work setting. Communication is the key to learning as it involves so many different aspects, for example communication is not just verbal it has a lot to do with things like body language, facial expressions and posture. People communicate for many different reasons and ever situation is different in every way. †¢Expressing needs- this is the main reason to why people communicate generally. This applies to people that are both common and uncommon with each other. This does not always involve talking this can be hand gestures, eye contact and body language. †¢To share ideas, information and to reassure- this is also main aspects to why people communicate. Individuals old and young want to portray their views and reassure people around them about certain situations. †¢To express feelings- this is another reason to why individuals communicate, if they don’t want to keep their feelings to themselves they have to communicate in some way to others. For example babies cry when they want something as this is their way of communicating their feelings. †¢To build relationships, socialize and to share experiences- these are reasons to why people communicate as it builds a social life for them, it brings more people around them meaning friends and family, which will mean that they have people who they can relate to and go through all different life experiences with. Read more:  Identify different reasons why people communicate  essay 1.2 – When working with children within a childcare setting, effective communication is key. When dealing with children you are not only dealing with the children who you need to communicate and build a relationship with but the parents and staff. For an individual in a childcare setting it is very important for them to have good relationships with a range of people; meaning, parents, staff, and the children. Communication and relationships come into play with each other very well, this is due to the better relationship you have with another individual the communication is likely to be more effective. Relationships and communication are influenced by certain things for example; the body language, facial expression and the way the other individual listens and talks to you. Building good relationships within the workplace will mean that communicating with everyone will be effective as there will be no problems. It will benefit things that occur in every setting, like sharing and gaining relevant information, supporting the children’s play and learning also working effectively as a team. Effective communication is a major skill that everyone working in a childcare setting must develop as this is the most practical/effective way to meet the needs of the children, parents, families and other members of staff on a daily basis. Communication is key in the daily events of every individual’s life, no matter how it is done either verbal or non verbal.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

10 Reasons to Oppose the Death Penalty Essay

Innocence and the Death Penalty The wrongful execution of an innocent person is an injustice that can never be rectified. Since the reinstatement of the death penalty, 139 men and women have been released from death row nationally. The High Cost of the Death Penalty It costs far more to execute a person than to keep him or her in prison for life. Death Penalty Can Prolong Suffering for Victims’ Families Many family members who have lost love ones to murder feel that the death penalty will not heal their wounds nor will it end their pain; the extended legal process prior to executions can prolong the agony experienced by the victims’ families. International Views on the Death Penalty The vast majority of countries in Western Europe, North America and South America – more than 139 nations worldwide – have abandoned capital punishment in law or in practice. Inadequate Legal Representation Perhaps the most important factor in determining whether a defendant will receive the death penalty is the quality of the representation he or she is provided. Deterrence Scientific studies have consistently failed to demonstrate that executions deter people from committing crime anymore than long prison sentences. Arbitrariness in the Application of the Death Penalty Politics, quality of legal counsel and the jurisdiction where a crime is committed are more often the determining factors in a death penalty case than the facts of the crime itself. Religious Perspectives on the Death Penalty Although isolated passages of religious scripture have been quoted in support of the death penalty, almost all religious groups in the United States regard executions as immoral. Racial Disparities The race of the victim and the race of the defendant in capital cases are major factors in determining who is sentenced to die in this country. In 1990 a report from the General Accounting Office concluded that â€Å"in 82 percent of the studies [reviewed], race of the victim was found to influence the likelihood of being charged with capital murder or receiving the death penalty, i.e. those who murdered whites were more likely to be sentenced to death than those who murdered blacks.† Alternatives to the Death Penalty In every state that retains the death penalty, jurors have the option of sentencing convicted capital murderers to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The sentence is cheaper to tax-payers and keeps violent offenders off the streets for good.

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Bury me essays

Bury me essays Chapter 1 describes when it began that the first native Indians got into slavery of the White due to the discovery of what Columbus thought was India (giving the inhabitants the name Indio), but in fact was America (he landed in San Salvador on October 12, 1492). He described them as the most friendly and peaceful people in the world, but nonetheless stated that they should adopt European working habits and be christianised. It followed that many of the Indians were killed or taken as slaves and shipped to Europe by the Spaniards or their settlements taken over and put under Spanish reign. The British came more than one century later, and they pursued a different strategy, making good friends with the Indians in the beginning to get their trustiness. The Indians helped Englishmen to survive during the winter, giving the food and letting them live with them. After living together in peace for a certain time, they crowned the tribe Chief of the Powhatans (Wahunsonacook), named him King Powhatan, and a white man was even allowed to marry his daughter, Pocahontas. In the end though, the English, who had first landed in Virginia (1607) and Massachusetts (1620) behaved exactly the same as the Spaniards, killing many Indians and taking others as slaves or shipping them to Europe to have cheap workers and make money with them. During the centuries, more and more European colonists mainly British, Dutch and French came to America to take more and more land away from the natives. As settlements grew, the Indians were more and more forced to move westward. Treaties were signed, but broken again and battles between Indians and white settlers mostly ended with the Indians losing their land as well as many men, women and even children. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Iroquois, Ottawas, Shawnees, Miamis, Cherokee, Hurons and many other mighty tribes fought their battles and again had to surrender to the Whites powe ...

Monday, November 4, 2019

Company law Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 14250 words

Company law - Dissertation Example Such intrusion takes place, only when it is evident that there is mala fide intent in the decisions of the directors. This is in accordance with section 306 of the Companies Act 2006. Although, section 172(1) of the Companies Act 2006 influences the general duties of the directors of a company; it has been seen to result in legal uncertainty, regarding their general duties. This is due to the absence of an exhaustive list of the duties to be discharged by the directors. Apparently, this bestows widespread discretionary powers upon directors. This wide discretion has been provided by the statute for the purpose of conducting the affairs of the company in a congenial manner. However, under certain circumstances, such discretionary power can be misused by the directors of a company, in order to further their personal interests. This had transpired in Hawkes v Cuddy & Others.1 A codification of some of the duties of the directors of a company was effected by the Companies Act 2006. Insta nces are the codification of the common law duty of care and skill, by section 174(1) of the Companies Act 2006. A very important feature of the codification of directors’ duties relates to the fact that not all of the directors’ duties have been codified.2Directors’ duties codified by the Companies Act 2006 are their principal fiduciary duties and the duty of care and skill. ... ector is required to comply with all of these duties.3 It is apparent from the various law reports that section 172 of the Companies Act 2006, merely effects a codification of the obligations of directors under the common law. In Re Southern Counties Fresh Foods Ltd,4 the court made a comparison between the previous wording and the new form after codification.5Prior to the 2006 Act, there was no material difference in this position. This was clarified in Re Smith and Fawcett Ltd.6 The shareholders of a company can sue a director of their company, for breach of duty towards the company.7 Prior to the enactment of the Companies Act 2006, shareholders had to obtain the permission of the board of directors of their company, if they were desirous of initiating legal action against a director of their company. This inequitable situation was rectified to some extent, subsequent to the enactment of the Act, which permits shareholders to bring in derivative action against a director of their company. It is no longer necessary to obtain the prior permission of the board of directors of the company, to bring such derivative action. The business judgement rule absolves directors of liability for the decision taken by them, if these decisions had been taken in good faith, with due care and within their powers.8 A director’s liability will be absolved, if he had taken the concerned decision with due care and diligence. However, there is every possibility that the director may exceed the limits of his authority, in taking such decisions. In Lonrho Ltd v Shell Petroleum Co. Ltd 9, the House of Lords stressed upon the importance of the duty of directors towards the company. In Re Horsley & Weight Ltd 10 it was held that the directors owed a duty towards creditors. This was a novel

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Principles of Entrepreneurship Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Principles of Entrepreneurship - Coursework Example As the report declares  smart TV which is also known as connected TV is incorporated with internet features that provide the users a better experience. The features of Smart TV’s include video streaming, video on demand along with web browsing. Smart TV’s enables the users to share music, movies, photos and other multimedia files. These TV’s have entered the market since two years which provides a complete package of entertainment to the users like Youtube, Netflix, iPlayer along with various other applications that add up to the features of the smart TV’s. Besides, along with smart TV’s it has been observed that there has been a growth in the smart TV devices like PVR’s, TV adapters and Blu Ray players, that provide accessibility to internet services through TV. There are some Smart TV’s which are wireless enabled for using the internet services.This study stresses that TV viewers often do not find enough time or interest to watch s hows provided by the broadcasters anymore as there has been an emergence of a wide range of solutions pertaining to entertainment which enables the users to watch those shows that they desire to watch. The objective of the report involves determining the prevailing market scenario in the United Kingdom for a new smart TV manufacturing firm and developing a set of strategies to enter into the market. In addition, it has been observed that there is downward trend regarding the sales of TV’s in the UK.

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Water, Agriculture and Irrigation Simulation for CROPS Statistics Project

Water, Agriculture and Irrigation Simulation for CROPS - Statistics Project Example Temperatures are at the highest in the month of July and August with temperatures reaching high as 40  Ã‚ °C. Temperatures are recorded the lowest in late January and early February with temperatures reaching less than 5 °C. ETO is highest in the month of June to July with records reaching up to 7mm. The month of December and January record the least ET0 at an average of 1mm a day. The ideal period to grow crops in Cordoba is from January after which they will take 4 months to be harvested. The major climatic constraints include high temperatures. Cordoba experiences high temperatures in the mid year. The increasing temperatures occur in the summer season after which most of the crops have already been harvested. Increasing Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is also high from June to December and is increasing at an increasing rate. Carbon dioxide should not be directly proportional to the oxygen released to the atmosphere. Increase in carbon in the atmosphere lead to low productiv ity. Increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere may have direct impact on agriculture productivity. This may also lead to extreme weather. A warmer climate could bring low rainfall which results to low water availability. The maize sown on 15th February yielded 2.726 with a biomass of 8.388 ton/ha with a potential biomass of 18.314 ton/ha both in ratio of 46% with a water productivity of 1.01kg yield per m3 evapotranspired. Canopy Cover (CC) of the maize sown in 15th February increased from 0 to 96% at the 15th day to 40th day and reduced from 85th day up to 111th day.

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

The Sin Tax bill Reaction Essay Example for Free

The Sin Tax bill Reaction Essay The Sin Tax bill (House Bill 5727 and Senate Bill 3249) is a bill which aims to restructure the existing taxes imposed on alcohol and tobacco goods. On December 20, 2012, President Benigno Aquino III signed the Republic Act 10351 or the sin tax reform 2012. The Sin Tax Bill is a sensationalized issue in the Philippines and it gets several mixed reactions from different stakeholders in the country or Filipinos at large. Filipinos are expected to reduce their vices like alcoholism and smoking as a target result of this Bill. Aquino said the new law aims to favor both the government and the Filipino people since revenues to be generated from the measure will be used to fund health insurance programs for the poor, and build and renovate hospitals in the country. Most families of Filipinos especially those who are not residing in urban areas are farmers. The source of their livelihood is farming tobacco products and harvesting fermented liquors, in our dialect â€Å"tuba†. They are now the immediate concern that the government should consider upon the approval of this Bill. Higher taxes on tobacco products mean lesser income for these farmers. Especially, that they are not the owner of the lands they’re farming, they also pay lease for the lands. Unemployment is one of the possible outcomes of the Sin Tax Bill, especially on our farmers. If they become jobless, they likely can resort to different illegal activities just to provide for their family. The aim of the Sin tax Bill is to discourage smokers and alcoholics. But the problem here is that, especially on Filipinos who claim that these vices are addiction to them, they would still continue smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages, to the point that they would sacrifice some of the immediate needs of their families just to sustain their wants. Filipinos are very steadfast on every endeavor they undertake. But they have this mindset that the Programs of the Government are not reaching the true and deserving beneficiaries, like farmers. They may not benefit from these health programs because in the first place they are not living in the cities where standard and quality health responses are located. Maybe these projects may be beneficial to the Filipinos but what of the immediate impact on these increases of taxes? Different Tobacco and Alcoholic Beverages companies might also decrease the salaries of their workers or lay-off employees because its production will become more expensive. It will really affect factory workers and even small-scale business owners. On the other hand, I think this Sin Tax Bill has its positive goals especially to the youth of the nations. Most consumers of these â€Å"sin goods† are youth. With the presence of this bill, there will be higher prices on different cigarettes and alcoholic drinks and since they cannot afford it, they will be discouraged to smoke and drink alcohols. Let’s just cross our fingers that the youth will not resort to illegal means just to continue their vices, especially the out-of-school-children-and-youths. Since they do not have a proper education, we should take it into account that OSCYs are more vulnerable to these vices and if they are not guided properly, this Sin Tax Bill will make sins bigger.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Impacts Of Water Pollution On Humans

Impacts Of Water Pollution On Humans Pakistan is a developing country having urbanized population 33.5% with the increasing migration rate from rural to urban areas. The water pollution in Pakistan and especially in the major cities like Faisalabad is very high which has a variety of effects on economy, ecology and human health. Cost of pollution is very high because of environmental protection measures and improvement measures.The present study was undertaken to assess the different reasons that contribute to the water pollution. The aim of study was to portray the contribution of textile industry in water pollution and its impacts on the economy, human health and environment of Faisalabad (An industrial zone of Pakistan). Waste hierarchy model is used to combat the problem of water pollution. It includes different steps of integrated approach that can be helpful to manage waste pollution. Key Words: Pollution; Textile; Water; Human Health; Ecosystem; Economy INTRODUCTION Water is one of the main elements that are responsible for life on earth. Two-third of the earth surface is covered by water. But we have exploited, mistreated and contaminated this precious natural resource. Today we are very well aware of the term water pollution. It is any chemical, physical or biological change in the quality of water that has harmful effects on any living organism that uses it (Brittanica encyclopedia). Everyday, 2 million tons of human wastes are disposed of into watercourses. In developing countries, 70 percent of industrial wastes are dumped untreated into water. And half of the worlds wetlands have been lost since 1900 (UN Programme for World Water Assessment, 2009). The problem of water pollution is increasing day by day in Pakistan. Vulnerability of safe drinking water is growing due to this pollution. It has also created a danger to human health. Water born diseases are common in Pakistan (Ilyas, 1998). According to Government of Pakistan, water born dise ases are 20-30 percent of all hospital cases (1999-200). All cities are the victim of this problem. But the situation is worst in the city of Faisalabad. It is the 3rd largest city of Pakistan. It is located in the province of Punjab. It has population more than 2 millions. It is the biggest industrial and textile zone of Pakistan. Water pollution has endangered the environment of the city. REASONS OF WATER POLLUTION There are different reasons of water pollution in Faisalabad i.e. sewerage system, solid waste, industry and pesticides. Textile Industry Most prominent reason of water pollution is the effluents from the textile industry. There are more than 40 textile mills and 6000 small power looms units in Faisalabd (Nosheen-Sofia et.al., 2003).Power loom are small units that are spread in the whole city. The textile industry represents a range of industries with operations and processes that are diverse as its products. It is almost impossible to describe a typical textile effluent because of such diversity. Fabrics, after its manufacturing, are sent to several wet processes Collectively known as finishing and it is in these finishing operations these major waste effluents are produced (Abo-Elela et al., 1988). Most of the units in the city have no proper discharge system and recycling plants. They come through open channels and mix with clean water. This waste is highly alkaline in its nature. It affects the water and soil as well. There are many materials that can be found in the water, like chloride, sulphate and phenol. These contents of textile are growing at alarming level. A research conducted was by Nosheen et.al, (above table) they collected many random samples of water that shows the amount of different materials in it.(2003) We can observe from the above data that the amount of chloride is more in the process of bleaching and the amount of sulphate is high in the process of mixing. Furthermore, we can see that the amount of phenol remained less in all process as compares to chloride and sulphate. According to Pakistan environmental protection agency 67% of collected samples of water were not suitable for drinking (2003). Textile effluent Source (www.oilgoneeasy.com/oil_spill_blog) (ii) Pesticides Another reason for water pollution in this city is pesticides. Wheat and Cotton are the main grown crops of this region. Pesticides are widely used to control the pests in that area. These chemicals contain human made organic compounds. These chemicals can be migrated to surface water, local watersheds and ground water. Ground water is the major source of drinking water in many areas. Especially where canal and river water is not easily available. According to Hallberg, 40-50% drinking water is pumped through ground water (1998). When these chemicals mix into ground water they contaminate the water and pose threat to drinking water. A research conducted by Akhtar et.al, shows the different amount of components that were present in the ground water of Faisalabad Sodium is in abundance in Faisalabad groundwater. It was estimated to be 660 Â ± 430 mg I-I. Only 14.52% samples were below the sodium guideline value of WHO i.e. 200 mg 1-1. Excessive intake of sodium in the form of sodium chloride may lead to vomiting and elimination of the salt. Acute effects may include convulsion, muscular twitching, rigidity, and pulmonary oedema (MSS, 1980). In the past DDT and its metabolites were also sprayed heavily. So their residues are found in the water. They have very harmful effects on water. So water is not safe for drinking in that zone (Tanabe, et.al, 2000). (iii) Solid Waste Solid waste is another cause of water pollution. According to the resource conservation and recovery act of America, solid waste includes household waste and commercial waste collected by a municipality within a given area. Solid waste is a big problem in Faisalabd. According to the city district government of Faisalabad, 1275 tons of solid waste per day is generated in the city. But they are only able to collect 51% of solid waste from the total amount. They have no proper collection and transportation system. They also dump the waste into low depressions (performance report, 2009). They have no proper buffer zones to dump the solid waste. These lack of resources and mismanagement leads toward the water pollution because all the unlifted waste discharges into the water bodies. So water is contaminated with different harmful materials. When human drink this water can get many diseases. So the solid waste in many cities of world is damaging the quality of water. All above factories are responsible for water pollution and it has wide range of effects on environment, plants and humans. Solid waste Source (ptj.com.pk/newsite/general-articles/Issue_12 EFFECTS OF WATER POLLUTION a. Human Health Residues of DDT have very harmful effects on humans. For example it can badly affect pregnant women. It can remain in the human milk. For example, Hussian, et.al reported the residues of DDT and its degrading products in human milk in the city of Faisalabd. In this way they can produce negative impacts for the nourishment of child. These chemicals effect the whole generation. Other than DDT, many chemicals that are present in the effluents of textile mills produce wide range of diseases. According to Akhtar et al different samples were taken from the city variety of diseases were found. The percentage of Diarrhea, hepatitis and typhoid is more as compared to other diseases. Hair loss is one of the diseases that affect humans in that area. There are many contaminations that can cause it. But lead and selenium are the most prominent in it. When water travels from the old pipes, then led contaminate the water. It causes hair loss in the population. Plants Water pollution also affects the plants and agricultural crops. It disturbs the quality and quantity of plants. Polluted water contains different heavy metals in it. When this water is given to the plants they produce different abnormalities. Cadmium is the most toxic metal for plants followed by other metals like, Cu, Zn and Pb. Due to the presence of these metals in the water the intake of nutrients to plants is decreased. So it affects the growth of plant. In result, the protein content of plants decreases from 19-71.4 % (Akhtar et.al , 2002). If the protein content is not sufficient then the quality of crop plant is not considered as good. Due to polluted water the amount of Algae is also increased in the water. It decreases the photosynthesis process of other plants and result into negative effects on the growth of other plants. They also disturb the biological oxygen demand level Ecosystem Pollution of water has also bad affect on ecosystem. The high chloride content kills some important microorganisms that are important in some food chains of aquatic life (Kumar, 1989). Some animal are very sensitive to water pollution. They absorb chemicals into the water through their skin. So they are badly affected from pollution. Some other insects that have ability to walk on water, they become unable to walk because of this pollution. Other young animals got physiological effects as suffocation and thinning of eggshells to the alteration of neurochemistry (Sean fears, 2009). If microorganisms are badly affected in this way then whole ecosystem may disturb because in an ecosystem each individual level has its own energy share. If some are killed the whole food chain may disturb and result into disaster for any ecosystem. Pollutant compounds are very toxic and are dangerous for fish even at very low level. Furthermore, when human eat this fish, they also get affected. Eventually, this process affects humans as well. People can get diseases such as hepatitis by eating seafood that has been poisoned. Pollution from industries, sea ships, fertilizers and urban wastes is coming into water and spoiling the ecosystem (figure 3). Water is polluted due to industry, sewage and fertilizer run-off. This polluted water goes to the ecosystem and disturbs the whole ecosystem. It results into the death of algae and also plants. These two are also the sources of nutrients for fish. Polluted water also affects the fish. In a result it disturbs the whole ecosystem. WHY POLLUTION? WHO IS WINNING AND WHO IS LOOSING? Different scholars and researchers are in debate concerning the current conflicting position with regards to the environmental pollution, renewable and non-renewable resource utilization, environmental degradation, etc. Specifically, environmentalists and economists are becoming the prominent players in this debate (Ewijk and Wijnbergen, 1995). The issue of environmental sustainability is generally a crucial aspect of human life, which should need a common understanding and thereafter tangible action by the existing generation. Accordingly, the existing environmental problem is a result of improper human involvement in natural resource utilization. The advocate of intergenerational development requests the resilience of nature to its improved state with the introduction of healthy human-nature relationship. Currently, growing principle of self organization and maximum power are the mile stones for the introduction of new era in human-nature liaison (Odum, 2000). It is obvious that human need and want is much dependent on natural resources. All goods and service that are produced in an industry exploit varied types of natural resources. This indicates that human economic activity is directly linked with the environment. Besides, different economic growth theories are purely relied on the production, consumption and distribution of goods and services from natural resource in order to maintain better economic growth. Significantly, Lopez and A. Toman (2006) argued that, modern growth theory shows that not only environmental sustainability is potentially compatible with positive economic growth but also, and perhaps more importantly, the failure to achieve environmental sustainability may become an obstacle to sustained economic growth. In fact, the race for achieving economic growth among the nations resulted in over use of natural resource and challenged the well functioning of ecosystem in general. This statement point out a strong link betwe en the environment and economic growth and it absolutely indicates that our environment is the sole base for all human activity in different ways. Above figure shows although textile industry and pesticides industry has positive effect on economy. But both pollute water. This polluted water has adverse effects on human health, biodiversity and ecosystem. We have to spend lot of money to maintain human health, biodiversity and ecosystem. So these all measures put a negative effect on the economy. SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGRY TRANSFORMATION PROCESS We should be given higher concern to the thoughts made by Odum (1995) and other environmentalists in order to come up with sustainable environment. We should investigate what the energy hierarchy concept says about sustainability. In the process of energy transformation, the potential energy is spent in production process to provide small output of available energy in different kind (Odum, 2000). This degraded energy in the process is a burden on environment and may result as a pollution for the environment. So it is necessary to prevent from these difficulties at the heart of the process ( Mahmoud M. El-Halwagi, 1998). Therefore, pollution control decisions are made with little or no regard to the process that generates the waste. As Odum described that the control inputs have much effect on the output of the process (2007). This perspective gave rise to prepackaged menus of solutions from which options can be chosen and added to the periphery of the process to address environmental problems. Unfortunately, this approach addresses the symptoms of the problem without dealing with the root cause of the environmental problem which lies at the core of the process. It includes several practices like equipment modification, design and operational changes of the process, reformulation or redesign of products, substitution of raw materials, and use of environmentally benign chemical reactions. (Mahmoud. M. El-Halwagi, 1998). In conclusion by using these practices we can make the transformation process more efficient and it will reduce the amount of degraded energy. ECONOMICS OF WATER POLLUTION AND INDUSTRY Industry is the main source of water pollution in the city of Faisalabad. There are more than 40 textile mills and 6000 small power looms units in Faisalabd (Nosheen-Sofia et.al., 2003). This industry discharge different types of effluents that cause major financial loss to the system. -Destruction of ecosystem -Diseases of human and plants -Starvation, poverty and social conflicts Changes in the quality of water Industry Emissions Financial losses (Prices of raw material) Income losses Raw material consumption Modified availability of raw material Improvement measures Environmental protection measures Costs Costs Fig. 5 Economic accounting of water pollution Source (Environmental economic accounting Available at. www.destatis.de/environment/ German Environmental, property=file.pdf) Above diagram shows the industry as a source of change in the quality of water and the consumption of raw material. This change in the quality of water may disturb the ecosystem. It can also spread diseases in human and plants. The shortage of raw material can create starvation. Cost of pollution is very high that is shown at two stages. At first stage due to adoption of environmental protection measures and then the adopt ion of improvement measures to remove the harmful effects of pollution and industry. CONCEPTUAL MODEL TO MANAGE WATER POLLUTION I think there are many ways to combat the water pollution in any area. First of all, integrated approach may be used. I think we should focus on different technology options with different community based approach. We should device that policy that can work for the uplift of whole community. if we divide the management strategy into different steps then we can combat the pollution in an efficient way. Figure 6, below shows the different management steps that can be utilized to manage pollution. This model is also called the waste hierarchy model. This model gives us a clear picture of management steps according to their importance. Fig.6 Waste Hierarchy Model The waste hierarchy refers to the 3Rs of reduce, reuse and recycle strategies according to their desirability. The 3Rs are meant to be a hierarchy, in order of importance. Waste Prevention If we avoid making the waste in the first place then we wont have to use resources recycling and disposing of it. Avoid over packaged products, if you have a choice get the one with the least packaging that you have to put in your black bin Concentrates are packaged in smaller bottles less damage to the environment. Avoid Disposables, as the name suggests they are meant to be thrown away instead of cleaning with a paper towel use a cloth inst Reuse Often we can reuse items that we have such as carrier bags, also other may be able to reuse items that we do not want. Auction Websites are an easy way of selling items you dont want. youd be amazed at What people will pay for. Charity Shops take lots more than just clothes if you contact them with all the items youve have they will tell you what they can take. (c) Recycle Discards are separated into materials that may be incorporated into new products. This is different from Reuse in that energy is used to change the physical properties of the material. Initiatives include Composting, Beverage Container Deposits and buying products with a high content of post-consumer. (d) Disposal If we produce less waste then we have to dispose of less waste into the landfill. Source (http://www.derby.gov.uk/Environment/RubbishWasteReCycling) CONCLUSION Water is a unique natural resource. But we have exploited and contaminated this natural resource. So many countries of the world are facing water pollution. It is a great challenge to the sustainability of our environment. Sustainability should be taken as distinctive and wide-ranging criterions which guide global development. It is noticeable that currently, the major supply of energy is fossil fuel which is non-renewable. Furthermore, the level of environmental pollution is too high due to high rate of carbon gas emission. This allows the system to reward the environment in unfair way for the damage and it is not based on what the environment is serving the economic system as a whole. Apparently, economists put forward an opposing approach to define sustainability by limiting inter-temporal welfare of human being. Every country has its own specific causes of water pollution. It may vary from industries, solid waste to overuse of pesticides. Being a biggest textile zone of Pakistan, Faisalabad is facing a severe problem of water pollution. Textile effluents are discharging into the water because of mismanagement and lack of infrastructure. Many other factors are contributing to this water pollution like solid waste and overuse of pesticides. This water pollution has severe outcomes. It produces different abnormalities in plants, animals and human beings. We can combat with water pollution by adopting different measures. We can decrease the intensity of problem by using integrated management approach that can work for the development of whole community. We can save the water by imposing new regulations and laws for the polluters. We also need to change our way of thinking about the world and the use of natural resources. In this way we can save a better future for our upcoming generations.

Friday, October 25, 2019

Buddhism in Fight Club Essay -- Literary Analysis

â€Å"Whenever we find one who has come unscathed through every test in childhood, youth, and manhood, we shall set him as a Ruler to watch over the commonwealth; he will be honoured in life, and after death receive the highest tribute of funeral rites and other memorials.† Great philosophers like Plato and Machiavelli raised a lot of arguments in how a true guardian is like. Although there have been some oppositions on how guardians should execute duties, it is noticeable that both philosophers agree that a true guardian is more than just a leader. A true guardian assumes active responsibility to the society of which he or she is part. As discussed in Plato’s The Republic and Machiavelli’s The Prince, guardians are leaders that don’t own any possessions and they are active in ruling the society. True guardians are enlightened from shadows of lies. These rulers desire to offer his people a better world to live in. True Guardians must be very skillful in fighting. Siddhartha Gautama is a great example of a true guardian. 'Siddhattha Gautama' means descendant of Gotama who is efficacious in achieving aims. He later became known as Buddha, which means "one who is intuitive, awakened, or enlightened." But how does one achieve enlightenment and what do you do after gaining it? Siddhartha Gautama was born in Lumbini, near the Nepalese-Indian border. Asita, a famous wise sage, predicted that he would become a great king or a great religious teacher. Siddhartha’s father, King Suddhodana, wished for his son to be a king so he shielded him from religious teachings or any knowledge of human sufferings. King Suddhodana evidently thought that any contact with unpleasantness might prompt Siddartha to seek a life of renunciation as a religious... ...mber 8, 2010, http://www.san.beck.org/EC9-Buddha.html. Sanderson Beck, â€Å"Buddha and Buddhism,† accessed December 8, 2010, http://www.san.beck.org/EC9-Buddha.html. Buddhist-Tourism.Com, â€Å"Buddhism Statistics,† accessed December 8, 2010, http://www.buddhist-tourism.com/buddhism/buddhism-statistics.html. Chuck Palahniuk, Fight Club (W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. 2005), 46. Chuck Palahniuk, Fight Club (W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. 2005), 41. Chuck Palahniuk, Fight Club (W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. 2005), 43. Robin Chew, â€Å"The Essences of Buddha’s Teachings, accessed December 6, 2010, http://www.lucidcafe.com/library/96jun/buddha2.html. Chuck Palahniuk, Fight Club (W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. 2005), 48-49. TeachingsOfBuddha.com, â€Å"Do Not Believe in Anything,† accessed December 10, 2010, http://www.teachingsofthebuddha.com/do-not-believe-anything.htm.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Competitve advantage Essay

â€Å"A firm that already has sustained competitive advantage in its domestic market may not have the same advantage in an overseas market. Discuss the issues that this creates for a firm, and how it might exploit its resource advantages to secure successful market entry and create competitive advantage in a new overseas market.† With the global trade network more integrated, according to Pearce and Robinson (2009), firms tend to enter foreign market to gain more profit due to the maturity of domestic market, excess capability, and potential purchasing power in foreign market. Therefore, as a firm has already achieved success in its domestic country it might consider enter a new market. Before it operates in a new market, it has to consider the barrier of market entry, such as the barrier of political, social, economic or technology in a new market. And as foreign entry decision (Peng, 2009) model presents three aspects: where, when and how should be considered before enter in a new market. In addition, as a manager of a company should adjust its competitive advantage to adapt different market. Based on the study of Hill (2013), changes in the forces which include macroeconomics, social, technological, global, political and legal, and demographic may give great influence in competitive force model. Therefore, the ability of a firm to solve problems by the impact of different forces then build new competitive advantage by its resource advantage and competences significant as it enters a new overseas market. This essay will present some specific example of the firms which may enter a new overseas market and face different issues during the process of entering a new market and offer solutions to each issue. Price wars are common in any industry which is a common issue to be considered before enter a new overseas market, moreover, base on five force framework, in order to increase the ability of competing with rivals in industry, the ability of rivalry among competitors is one of the forces. Primark is one of the most successful fashion retailers in British. Its competitive advantage is from its low price. In another word, it gains profit from the cost leader strategy. (Hooley & Piercy ,2008). India is one of the biggest developing countries in the world. It has large population wh ich means India has a huge potential market for Primark. As reported by  BBC (2013) Recently, India government has opened up its retail market to foreign companies to stimulate its economic. Assume Primark enter the market of India, it may face competitive rivals, such as H&M and Gap. It has to maintain its competitive advantage and improves the ability of efficiency of cost .However, as a company which relies on low cost supplier, first of all, it has to decrease the barging power of supplier, thanks to the large population in India, it is not only providing a huge market for Primark but also offering a powerful labor resource to it. It offer an exactly social force to exploit its resource advantage and strategic fit in market of India.(Grant,2007) According to value chain study, reducing the cost of individual cost driver and reemployment could offer cost advantage to a firm. (Thompson & Martin, 2010) Primark could outsource to different local manufactures and create competition among them. In order to reduce the bargaining power of local supplier, Primark should deduce the dependence of a certain supplier. A good experience of Wal-Mart (Peng, 2009) could be used to Primark, it set up a policy within company which prevents any supplier offer more than 3% of its purchase. Furthermore, Primark should constrain those factories by contracts to prevent them copy the product and become both supplier and rivals. Primark might gain profit from controlling the cost and matching the opportunities in the external environment eventually enter a new overseas market. Before enter a new overseas market, the culture is always a considerable problem for a firm. Different countries have different belief, values, and behavior depend on their national culture.(Rugman & Collison) Furthermore, a firm should think about where to enter, base on Institution-based considerations on country risk.(Peng, 2009) It should evaluate the culture distance from its domestic country to a oversea market, moreover, taking advantage of common cultural, language, and historical ties.(Makino& Tsang,2011) If a firm enters a different cultural environment from its domestic and it may lose its competitive advantage. Therefore, when a firm enters a new market, it should not only focus it competitive advantage but also match the requirement of local people and adjust its strategy to current situation. Disneyland built the sixth Disneyland in Shanghai and it will operate in 2015. Consider it is as a cross culture theme park, it should learn the experience of other Disneyland in other countries. French Disneyland (Trigg, 1995) which has not reach its  expectation. It failed in France because it used English as official language in it which annoyed French, alcohol was forbidden in French Disneyland and this policy against the behavior of local people. What is more, it had conflict with farmers for land expropriation and caused opposition in France. Another example to support the argument is Tesco. Tesco lost 1.8 billion in USA, a lot of factors led to its failure, and one of the most important factors is Americans having different eating habits from European. Tesco has not considered it and eventually fail in a different culture environment. In order to gain profit in different culture markets, a firm should improve its abilities of adaption to a specific national market and blend global standardization and local adaption. For example, McDonald’s gained great competitive advantage from its global strategy (Grant, 2010). Although the menus of McDonald’s include globally items, likes happy meals, however, in different counties it ha s locally items. Considering about local relevance and find a balance point between global standardization and local adaption could maintain competitive advantage in a new culture market. In addition, to compete with first-mover in a new market is an important risk to a firm. Late entrants may face entry barrier which set by first-mover and hard to gain market share. Furthermore, the relationship between first-mover and local government maybe stable. (Peng, 2009) Kindle e-book reader is an electronic product was launched by Amazon from 2007 which linked to the electronic books. If Kindle enters Korean market, it would face some powerful competitors. The most competitive rivals is Galaxy Tab of Samsung as well as it have already gained great market share in Korea. In order to compete with Samsung, differentiation strategy could be used by Kindle. Innovation is the most competitive advantage of the technology industry. In another word, kindle should focus on its unique resource which is the large amoun t of e-resources of Amazon. This tangible source could attract customer and create the demand of customer. By increasing its dynamic capabilities by updating its organizational knowledge, accepting different ideas and developing the blend of tacit and explicit knowledge in a new market. (Wall, et al.2010). Besides, Kindle can evaluate the market of Korea which based on the current situation of Samsung before it enters this market and predicts the potential risk and makes some measures in advance. Moreover, late entrances could  cooperate with the first- mover to share the fixed assets to reduce the cost of entering a new market. As for small-medium companies, one of the biggest problems is the scale of the companies cannot support high risk of entering overseas market and they can afford the huge capital. P.van Dam & Zn. BV is family business with less than 30 staff which exports fresh flower and wholesale company in Netherlands. The competitive advantage of P.van Dam & Zn. BV is flexible to response the requ irement of customer. Customer could order flowers by their official website, telephone or E-mail them and customer can contact specialize staff in each step, in other word, P.van Dam & Zn. BV contact customers personally. It can react rapidly and fit the demand of customers. If it wants to enter UK market, it may export directly since the size of it is really small and it prefer to take whole controlling of distribution. The small scale of entry is suitable for them and the best entry mode of this kind of small companies is exporting. It is not only reducing the cost of entering overseas but also get better control over distribution. (Peng, 2009) After a company enters a new market, According to Industry-based consideration on the degree of competitiveness (Peng, 2009), one of potential risks is substitute. For example, Lipton is one of the most competitive brands in China and became the best sale in tea market in five years. The core competence of Lipton is the sensitivity of the requirement of customer (Chanston, 2012). Lipton invests a lot on researching the tendency of tea and the preferences of customer as well as setting up a data base and in different countries. It combined the tea and the life of target customers together. Base on the VRIO framework (Peng , 2009), value, rarity, robustness and Non-substitutability to keep sustainable competitive advantage, Lipton brings a health and new style of drinking tea to Chinese market which also brings value to its brand. Besides, it is will cost a lot to copy the operating model of Lipton. In addition, the healthy image has been accepted by costumers, some substitutes such as coke, juice can’t take place of it. Therefore, increasing the ability of each element in VRIO framework and improve the sustainable competitive could avoid the threat of potential substitute in new market. In conclusion, this essay has covered some major issues when a firm enters a new market, price issue, culture issue, first-mover issue small-medium size company issue and substitute issue. And give some specific companies as examples to explain how to gain  competitive advantage to response to each issue. For example, Shanghai Disney should blend global standardization and local adaption to get competitive advantage in a new market. A firm should change or improve its competitive advantage as it enter a foreign market, otherwise, it will loss the opportunities and fail in a new overseas market. References: BBC (2013). H&M wins final approval to invest in India. 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