Monday, September 30, 2019

Religious Parallels Lord of the Flies

William Golding's Lord of the Flies is an allegorical novel from numerous perspectives. It draws societal parallels to a post-war world, political parallels to different methods of government, and even psychoanalytical parallels to the psychological models of Freud. One of the most prominent allegories contained in the story is its parallel to the Bible. William Golding creates these parallels in many different ways, through both settings, and the actions of characters. Interestingly, every religious allegory in Lord of the Flies is incomplete; they are similar to events in the Bible, but none of them are completely synonymous.Golding's creates a unique stance on Christianity by his flawed allegories to the Garden of Eden and Jesus’ teachings and death; he shows that he favors some Christian values and some of the Bible’s messages, but is opposed to others. The first connection between Lord of the Flies and the Bible is located at the very beginning of both books: the s etting of the island reminds one of the Garden of Eden. Golding describes the island: â€Å"Beyond the platform there was more enchantment. Some act of God [†¦] had banked sand inside the lagoon so that there was a long, deep pool in the beach with a high ledge of pink granite at the further end† (10).He also notes that the â€Å"shore was fledged with palm trees. These stood or leaned or reclined against the light [†¦]† (9). This is eerily similar to the Garden of Eden, which â€Å"the Lord God planted [†¦] and he placed there the man whom he had formed. Out of the ground the Lord God made various trees grow that were delightful to look at and good for food, with the tree of life in the middle of the garden [†¦]† (The New American Bible, Gen. 2:8-9). If â€Å"the man† in the Bible is taken to be Ralph and the other boys, then another comparison can be drawn.When Ralph strips down and swims in the lagoon, it reminds one of Adam naked i n the garden. The water could be seen as a connection to baptism, which is the recognition of a new birth or creation. This is one of the few connections in the novel which is entirely parallel with that of Bible, suggesting that Golding probably supported the creation theory. Yet another connection the Garden of Eden appears in the â€Å"beastie† that the boys are afraid of; it is often connected to the serpent in the garden that tempts Eve and causes original sin.These connections, however, are far from ideal. The island is indeed close to utopian, but there is the â€Å"long scar† (7) from the airplane crash. Golding probably rejected the idea that anything, even if created by God, could be perfect. Also, the serpent in the bible is always thought of as an external force, such as the devil, whereas Simon will eventually learn that the beast is not an external but an internal fear. This could be interpreted to mean the Golding did not believe that original sin came f rom an outside force; rather, it is an inherent part of human nature.Golding’s characterization of Simon creates a strong link between his actions on the island and the life of Jesus in the gospels. The first major example of this is when Simon is walking through the woods and is followed by the littluns: [The littluns] talked, cried out unintelligibly [†¦]. Then, amid the roar of bees in the afternoon sunlight, Simon found for them the fruit they could not reach, pulled off the choicest from up in the foliage, passed them back down to the endless, outstretched hands. When he had satisfied them he paused and looked round. † (56)

Sunday, September 29, 2019

How business works Essay

Introduction In this assignment I will be producing a case study on large/medium sided businesses, showing of how business works. My chosen company is McDonalds. The following will be including in my case study: * A description of what the business does, its aims and objectives. * A description of the purposes and activities of human resources and any other three functional areas. * A description of how effectively different areas of the business communicate. * A description of how the structure of the business is different from another organisation’s structure. * A record of my source’s information. McDonalds Restaurant OverView McDonalds is a large fast food chain of restaurants operating world wide, started in America and has outlets in other places such as, India, Cyprus. In many countries McDonald s sells variations of its food to cater for local tastes. They are also known for being multicultural because of the different cultural foods in their restaurants. Because of their huge volume of sales McDonalds has strong purchasing power with its suppliers and is therefore able to sell food very competitively. By the end of 2001 their was 1,184 restaurants in the UK alone. They had a target to get over 80 new restaurants opened by 2002, and that was achieved. By opening over 80 new restaurants they employed 4,800 new employees. ACTIVITY, AIMS & OBJECTIVES (P1, D2) Main Activity The main activity of McDonalds is selling fast food. They aim to provide a customer service, there are 1.5 million employees working for McDonald restaurants in the 119 countries, which all have the same daily activities which involves the staff in greeting, serving and helping customers with any enquiries or problems. They are the largest food service company in the world, so it’s important that all employees work together to succeed their aim. Main Aim McDonalds main aim is to provide customers with a fast food service in order to obtain a profit for its shareholders. McDonalds are committed to conducting their business with the environment in mind. McDonalds mission statement is â€Å"To be the world’s best quick service restaurant†. This is being achieved through five strategies such as; * Development: Lead the quick service restaurant market by a programme of site development profitable restaurant openings. * Our People: Achieve a competitive advantage through people who are high calibre, effective, well motivated and feel part of the McDonalds team in delivering the company’s goals. * Restaurant Excellence: Focus on consistent delivery of quality, service and cleanliness through excellence in our restaurants. * Operating Structure: Optimise restaurant performance through the selection of the most appropriate operating, management and ownership structures. * The Brand: Continue to build the relationship between McDonald’s and our customers in order to be a genuine part of the fabric of British society. Objectives McDonalds objective is to be the best’s quick service restaurant and believes and believes that this involves avoiding damage to the environment at a local and global level. The company aims to ensure that its operations today do not have an effect on the lives of future consumers. McDonald’s is involved in an ongoing programme with the aim to improve the environment, they do this by reusable packaging and recycling. Functional Areas within McDonalds (P2, M1, D2) HUMAN RESOURCES The Human Resources department concentrates on employees who work for the McDonald restaurants. Human Resources department include managing staff and their welfare, so the safety of their staff is taking very seriously, this all comes under Health and Safety. Staff have to be careful not to use computers/tills for long periods of time because they can suffer from eyestrain, tiredness or stress. McDonalds is improving communication systems by installing panic buttons for the safety against violent customers. McDonald’s employees have to work together to ensure a hazard free zone, by adhering to the health and safety regulations. McDonalds puts new employees on to a training system, to make sure if an accident happens which involves either a member of staff or a customer getting hurt, then the employee will be able to handle the situation effectively. McDonalds restaurants work to high standards, which meets and mostly exceeds the rules and regulations. The company always aims for the highest standards given in guidelines because of health and safety regulations and to expand the business. If McDonalds didn’t meet the requirements than they would be closed down by the health and safety executives. The Human Resources department contributes to McDonald’s activity by making sure: * They employ the right staff * Making sure the store is a hazard free zone These things contribute to the activity of McDonalds because without them they wouldn’t be able to achieve their aim, so it’s important that all the different department’s work together to succeed it. Recruitment, Training and Development When recruiting staff McDonalds look for people who have a positive attitude towards customers, themselves and other employees, and who are capable of delivering the highest standards of quality, service and cleanliness to our customers. Then potential employees are trained, promoted and treated on the basis of their relevant skills, talents and performance and without reference to race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender, marital status, age and disability. McDonalds management development curriculum takes new recruits form trainee manager to restaurant manger. They have on-the-job training and open learning development modules, backed up with courses and seminars at the company’s national and regional training centres. Hourly paid staff receive continuous on-the-job training by computer based training and other training materials. When employees complete their initial training staff members are awarded a basic certificate in food hygiene. Employees Below are the figures of the staff’s gender and age status. By the end of 2000 McDonald’s employed 49,726 members of staff: * 46, 207 restaurant crew * 2, 974 restaurant management crew * 545 office staff Health and Safety McDonalds always aims for the highest standards (and mostly exceeds), so they can achieve its aim and be the best quick service restaurant. If McDonalds didn’t meet the requirements of the health and safety act 1974 than they would be closed down by the health and safety executives. The most common hazards which occur in a work place are: 1. Leaving the work place untidy and dirty 2. Leaving floors wet and stairs 3. Leaving wires to trial across passageways 4. Frayed carpet or loose tiles 5. Equipment just left all over work surfaces 6. Too many plugs inserted into only one electric socket The human resources department has to make sure that all health and safety regulations are met. If they are not met then it can be closed down, also if the restaurant is unclean then it could loose customers and wouldn’t keep up their activity to be the best selling fast food restaurant. Customers wouldn’t want to go to a dirty restaurant, where there are a lot of hazards going on such as; wet shop floor, bins over filled, dirty tables and a unclean kitchen area. If any of these hazards occurred in any McDonalds restaurants customers could become ill or hurt, which would result in McDonalds going to court or having to closed the McDonalds restaurant down. Management training includes coping with emergency situations that could arise in a restaurant. This is because it decreases the risk of people being injured or the buildings being damaged in the McDonald restaurants. When an accident has occurred the manager then has to write out what happened and then investigate on the matter. Training is the main priority to ensure the consistency of the restaurant operation, and the highest levels of customer service and care. Every McDonalds franchisee must successfully complete a training programme which takes on average nine months to complete. Trade Union The workers are represented by union of shop, distributed and allied worker. Job Roles In Human Resources Job Roles In the Human Resources function Carmel Flatley, Human Resources Director I am the human resources director of McDonalds and I have the overall decision of anything that happens in this department. I also have to make sure that the human resources department don’t go over their budget. Paul Smith, Human Resources Manager I look after the whole HR department and staff, involved with industrial relations and trade unions negotiations, implementing the organisations HR policies. Gemma Wilson, Recruitment officer I deal with recruiting people, that’s sending out application forms, making interviews for potential employees. Potential employees don’t need to be experience in any way, because McDonalds is committed to training their staff and improving the skills of staff. Matthew Lawrence, Health and Safety Officer I deal with all health and safety matters, accident monitoring and staff welfare. That involves making sure that the shop floor is a hazard free zone for customers and clean and tidy, making sure the kitchen is clean enough to work in. I am well trained in first aid so that if any accidents happen, I will be their to help. I also have to deal with complaints and try to solve them. FINANCE The finance is one of the most important functions as they record all the money going in and out of the business, they give a budget for each other department to spend to make sure they keep their level of income and expenditure. They would regularly check the amount of money each department has spend and made to see if they are on target or not. If a department has gone over their budget then the finance dept would check to see if there is enough money to lend those more. So the purpose of the financial function therefore is to: * Keep all the financial records required by the organisation, detailing all the receipts and payments that have been made * Prepare final accounts from these records as required by law * Monitor the income and expenditure of different departments against their budgets * Provide continuous, up to date financial information for managers about business performance * Pay salaries and wages to the staff * Pay amounts owing to suppliers * Control the levels of debts owed to the company * Obtain additional finance when required, from the most appropriate source * Advise senior managers on the financial implications of major decisions These contribute to the McDonald’s activity by being apart of providing a good customer service by, paying the employees their salaries/wages, if they weren’t paid they wouldn’t be no staff or it could result in the staff withdrawing their labour. Production will cease and the employer will lose revenue. By McDonalds receiving more capital they can improve the quality of the store or products so customers would be more pleased of the in store environment or pleased of what they have purchase. It would result in consumers returning to the store because of the good service and also bringing more money to the business which will also achieve their aim which is to be the best selling fast food restaurant. Job Roles in Finance Department JOB ROLES George Mackay, Finance Director I am the finance director and I am in charge of the whole finance department. It involves information services, new product development, quality assurance and supply chain. I have to make sure a product which is purchased has the right quality that is expected from consumers, and then have to put a price to it. The most important part of the finance department is the cash flow which is the movement of cash going in and out a business. As a finance director I have to gives advice to senior managers on the overall decision on financial matters. And also as a director I have the last say with what happens within the finance department. Christopher Bateman, Financial Manager I looks after the finance function and the staff. Advising on financial resources. As a manager I have to make sure that all work as been done well. E.g. they have to monitor the income and expenditure of all departments to make sure they haven’t gone over their budget. So after the staff have checked their cash flow I then have to then go threw it to make sure nothing has been missed out. Derek, Daniels, Ledger Clerk I have to assist the chief accountant in the recording of all financial transactions. So where the money goes or comes in I have to make sure the chief accountant has recorded it all effectively. If any mistakes have been made I then have to correct the errors. Nita Negi, Credit Control Clerk As a credit control clerk, I have to assist the credit controller in checking the credit status of new customers and existing accounts, and also Reminding customers or overdue payment. PRODUCTION Production is all about the process of making something. Product life style shows the stages of a product or a range of products. If it isn’t successful it goes to decline stage. The activities of the production department are listed below: * Obtaining the resources required to produce goods or provide a service * Organising the resources to produce the goods or provide the service in the most appropriate way For the activities to be achieve they must consider the aim of the business which is to be the best selling fast food restaurant, so they have to find the best quality of food that suits them and then order it but first having to keep on target and not going over their budget by ordering expensive items or ordering to much that it all cant be produced/sold. Another thing they must consider is if the resources can be organised to achieve the aims, doing this they have to think about selling it cheaper then their competitors or having an offer like buy on get on free. They do this so it sells more because people wouldn’t to spend more they would go to the most cheapest place or giving the product an offer can be appealing to the customers. The production department contributes to McDonald’s activity by finding the right products at the right prices. When good quality products are sold at low prices it pleases customers and make them want to return, it also brings in more people as when a customer is pleased with the type of service they have receive the consumer then tells several other people, which makes then want to try it out. Job roles in Production Job Roles in Production Steven Cornway, Production Manager Responsible for the entire production function and it’s operations. What ever goes on has to be checked and authorised by me. Kim Karenga, Production Planners Plan all production to maximise machine use and staffing, taking account of customer requirements. Chris Walker, Production Controllers To check all production is going to schedule. Ted Osborne, Designers I am responsible for the actual design of the finished product. So if I don’t like the way a product has been designed I can make remendments. MARKETING The object of marketing is to make sure that the right product is made and potential customers are persuaded to buy it. Market Research can be carried out through either primary or secondary research. Primary research means asking someone on their views or opinions. A way of asking potential customers of their views or opinions is to make sure a survey, having questions about a certain item. After the survey has been completed they will then need to send out the surveys to potential customers, by either online, over the phone, by post or giving out surveys (in stores. Postal surveys don’t have much of a response as the others do as it takes more time e.g. sending it back, so when postal surveys are concerned their will usually have to be some kind of incentive offered for completing the survey, so customers would be tempted to fill it out. Secondary research is known as â€Å"desk research†. It consists to looking up facts or figures in books, magazines, computer databases, company files. So secondary research is looking at information that already exists instead of creating your own. McDonalds keeps a large amount of information on their databases about their customers and their buying patterns, also companies buy information from government statistics. Product – The amount of products the customer wants, the quality wanted, the features and the styling that are preferred, whether packaging is important, whether a guarantee or after sales service is required. Strategies – Is a long term plan for future success or development. Place – McDonalds are located on high streets or town centres. Marketing contributes to the McDonalds activity by market research (finding out what potential customers wants/needs), and improving existing products. Both of these improve the customer service, marketing contribute a lot to their activity to make McDonalds achieve their activity. All the functions work together to achieve it. The job roles of Marketing Job Roles in Marketing Matthew Howe, Marketing Director I am responsible for the overall marketing function and its aims and objectives. So if any idea’s have been thought of they have to been checked with me before anyone goes ahead and makes a change. Ethan Farah, Sales Manager As a sales manager I am responsible for overseas agents and the achievement of sales targets overseas. David Frank, Market Researchers Market researchers have to find out consumer opinions on current and proposed goods and services, if this is not done than they could bring out a product which isn’t doesn’t sell a lot and a loose the money they put in to produce the products. Advertising Manager An advertising manager is in charge of advertising and liaising with agency staff over publicity campaigns. Advertising is one of the most important things in marketing as without advertising a product will not be known so their would sell as well as products being advertised. EQUAL OPPORTUNTIES (P3, M2, D2) In a work placement an employee has rights and responsibilities. Below are the rights and responsibilities of an employee. Rights as an employee Employee’s rights How to carry it out Having safe working conditions Making sure that the area your working is a hazard free zone, if not consult your manager or the human resources area. It is also your job to take care with anything you do to prevent any hazards happening. Getting paid the fair salary/wage Depending on your age, experience and contract, employee’s get paid differently. You have to make sure that your getting a fair paid if not consult your manager. You should first read your contract because you might have signed for getting paid the amount you’re getting. Provided information concerning your rights Before starting your job you will be provided with information about the rights an employee has. (mainly in your contract) If you’re not provided with this information you are able to ask for it. Not to be discriminated on grounds of race, sex or disability If you feel that your getting treated unfairly according to your race, sex or disability your able to take up action like consulting your trade union. To be consulted over matters which will significantly affect your terms and conditions of employment If you employer decides to change something, which affects the terms and conditions on you employment and does not consult you first, you can take action upon this. Responsibilities for an employee Employee’s responsibilities How to carry it out To be ‘ready and willing to work It’s always good to be full with enthusiasm in your work because it looks good for the company and make you happier in your work To give a personal service Your contract will contain you main job roles, but it’s always good to provide your own service like putting your ideas into your work, smiling and just any other little thing. To treat others how you would like to be treated If you’re rude and dishonest than fellow staff would treat you the same. It’s important to work as a team and communicating well with other people, this can only be done if you treat people well. To work towards the objectives of the business Working towards the objectives of a business could look good on you and on the business, if the employer see’ s you are working hard than it could result in the employee being promoted. To work in good faith Working in good faith consists of being honest, if you’re honest it again can see that you’re trustworthy and could get promoted. But yet if your seen lying than you could loose your job. COMUNNICATION (P4, M3, D1, D2) Most organisations have different ways of communicating, communicating is one of the most important things in a business, because without communicating you cannot run a business effectively. They are all types of communicating, below is a list of ways of communicating within a business. * Meetings * Group discussions * Tele phone * Memo’s * Emails * Draft letters * Reports * Faxes There are two main methods of communication which are oral and written communication. Oral communication could be either face to face or the over the phone. If you can’t get threw to the person you are calling then you can leave a message which is still oral communication. Written communication could be sent by mail or transmitted electronically. This can include letters which is the most common one, text messages on mobile phones or notices on notice boards. Below are the advantages and disadvantages about oral and written communication. Oral Written Advantages 1. It’s a fast way of communicating because you don’t have to write things down. 2. It’s cheap, as if you phone someone you would have to pay for the phone call. 3. Immediate feedback, you don’t have to wait age’s for someone to reply back to you as you would in a letter. 1. Writing a message can be retained for future reference. 2. Writing a message can also be copied for other people’s uses. 3. Creates a distance between sender and recipient useful for difficult communication, e.g. bad news. Disadvantages 1. Clear Speech, you must speak very clearly so that other people can understand you, but yet when you write a letter people can just read it in their own pace. 2. Long or complex messages can be forgotten. 3. You can be easily distracted while someone talks to you, and then you could forget the whole message they just told you. 1. When writing a letter it can take time to write, while if your talking to someone its faster.] 2. Keyed in documents need to be skilled and produced quickly and accurately. 3. Delivery can take time, or could be delayed. McDonalds functional areas communicate with each other by a system called Intranet which was launched in 2000. The McDonalds intranet provides a fast and up to the minute source of information for the McDonalds restaurant management and office staff. McDonalds external communication is don’t by a system called McNews which was launched in 2000. McNews is a award wining magazine which was published monthly for all restaurant staff, then in 2002 McNews was re – launched as MDUK and is now a lively focused magazine. MDUK has activities and events from restaurants around the country. MDUK is a showcase for best practice, recognising individual’s outstanding practices and achievements, as well as highlighting internal and external awards. Apart from the Intranet and MDUK, McDonalds also has other ways of communicating within the business, they are listed below. 1. An email system operates in all offices and company – owned restaurants 2. Regular staff communication sessions are held in the offices 3. Employee satisfaction surveys for both office and restaurant staff are held annually. 4. Meetings are held monthly. 5. Memo’s – send daily An email system is to contact anyone within the business or outside the business, the email system is a fast and easier way to contact people. The email system is used by most companies and general people all over the world. Staff communication sessions are held to improve of employee’s communication skills. This is important because communicating with customers is one of the main things to do. Employee satisfaction surveys are handed out every year, so employees can write how they feel working in the McDonalds restaurants. This is a good thing to do because it’s important to keep the staff happy as it motivates the staff to work harder. Meetings are held every month to discuss the McDonalds performance. They also talk about how much they are making and see what can be improved with the money. McDonalds talks about new idea’s and try to change or promote things that is not doing so well. This is a good way of communicating as you get to talk face to face to see the expressions on each other faces and it’s faster as you don’t have to way for a reply if you do if you was writing an email. Memo’s are used daily in all of the departments. Sales manager might send a memo to human resources manager and ask if he has found a sales person. Memo’s are used daily because they are important little messages, and it’s also a fast way of sending.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Organisation and Service Management in Financial Services Essay

Organisation and Service Management in Financial Services - Essay Example guided by my instructors on how to undertake a research and come up with adequate information that would help the fund managers to make proper decisions that relates to the investment portfolio that they manage. While some investment analysts undertake their responsibilities in the investment management companies where they provide financial information to the fund managers, others are hired by investment banks and stock brokers to make their own investment ideas. Basically, investment analyst key roles include evaluating investment potential and studying economic trends (Leon, 2012). Thus, as an investment analyst, one need to ensure that he or she understands financial information including company accounts, data as well as financial statements. Similarly, they should be aware of the political events and current economic data including the trend of stock market (Orman, 1997). Major skills that the investment analyst must posses includes skills related to examining and interpreting data retrieved form various sources and identifying the impact of such information on the investment decisions (Thorp, 2010). As mentioned earlier, investment analysts are hired by various types of employers. These include banks, investment companies, public and private companies among others (Trinder, 2000). Additionally, social groups that have opened bank accounts to save their annual or monthly contribution may hire the services of investment analysts in order to guide them on how to effectively invest their funds. In UK and other countries investment analyst jobs can be found in pension funds, hedge funds and real estate firms, charitable organizations, large corporation as well as wealthy individuals. As finance students, we were trained on the various skills that are needed by an investment analyst. Most importantly, the course has exposed me on how to conduct extensive research on companies’ market data as well as reading their financial statements. By identifying their

Friday, September 27, 2019

Business at the Base of the Pyramid Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Business at the Base of the Pyramid - Essay Example 4). Survival for companies, at the base of the pyramid, directly hinges on the level of innovation that is put into the products (Prahaland 2002, p. 5). Achieving new levels of capital efficiency is a pre-requisite to profitable operation at the base of the pyramid (The European Alliance 2008, p. 11). The emphasis of business structure remodeling should be to produce innovative product using innovative means. This in turn necessitates the need to adopt innovative manufacturing processes. The guiding principle that should be adopted is the production of commodities that aid the community in meeting its development objectives (The European Alliance 2008, p. 10). The simple fact is that positioning a product to enhance the lives of the poor has a variety of advantages, chief of which is the financial advantages that will accrues from this approach (London 2007, P.9). The approach that should be adopted by the firms, which focus on the bottom of the pyramid, should entail employing an in novative manufacturing process, which will reduce the overall cost of production. This is in line with the fact that operating at the bottom of the pyramid entails lowering of prices and repackaging products into financially friendly units. This is best exemplified by the approach adopted by HLL India (Prahaland 2002, p. 6). The firm launched a new product called Wheel which essentially reduced the ration of oil to water in their detergent. When this was coupled with the low cost pricing strategy that they had set up, the result was a booming product which appealed to the poor consumer. This then ushers in the point of distribution. In order to target, effectively, the bottom of the pyramid, there must be systems that have been put in place, to ensure that the distribution mechanisms are able to access, effectively, the poor people (Prahaland 2002, p. 5). The lack of equitable wealth distribution restricts the poor to the sidelines of the global economy. This is regardless of the ve rity that they comprise a significant portion of the population. The status and nature of the poor makes it extremely difficult to reach via the conventional models that have reigned supreme using traditional business models (International Finance Corporation 2007, p. 3). The appropriate structure should be to position sales points to the small outlets, which are frequently used by the poor. These small outlets are characteristics of the dwellings of the poor. As such, should constitute as sales points for the business models of the bottom of the pyramid. Efficient distribution systems have greater potential of providing to large and untapped market. The largest being sourced from the rural poor. As such, with models that encompass structuring distribution points in the rural areas are better placed to tap these large and exponentially growing markets (Schrader, Freimann and Seuring 2012, p. 289). This is best done by structuring the business model to bring the product closer to the customer (The European Alliance 2008, p. 13). This in turn ushers in the need to check on the infrastructure. As such, this necessitates the need to incorporate NGOs and the government into a mutually benefitting partnership (The European Alliance 2008, p. 10). Aside from this, another vital aspect, to take into consideration is

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Strategic Supply Chain Managemnt Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Strategic Supply Chain Managemnt - Essay Example Goose at the Garden has two systems for purchasing. The first is Internet procurement using auctions, reverse auctions and electronic marketplaces to link buyer needs with seller products. This business has attempted to cut costs of distribution because the local supply environment is too costly and not competitive enough. When future raw material needs are predicted or identified, such as office supplies or alcohol supplies, advance usage of Internet procurement sources has given Goose at the Garden measurable cost savings (Nash, 2009). This process is sometimes not reliable for short-term needs, therefore the second system relies on manual procurement through local market suppliers and vendors. Materials handling mostly involves safety for workers by having strict policies in place about issues of box opening with safety razors and other important safety steps. None of the materials ordered for the pub are really considered hazardous, so manual handling just involves staff members observing policy for safety. A check-list inventory is used during the handling process of incoming merchandise to ensure it meets with the electronic copy of the purchasing agreement or contract. Goose at the Garden installed a rather inexpensive, yet efficient electronic system to monitor and control their inventory levels to ensure more accurate ordering of supplies (Nash). When the inventory checklist has been completed, the data is entered into the software which automatically updates stock levels. Each time a transaction is made, the computer software deducts the amount of raw ingredients portioned electronically for each item to reduce inventory at optimal levels. When actual physical audit occurs weekly, it shows how much waste is occurring or where suppliers can be eliminated from the supply network. Unless bought locally, Goose at the Garden uses only ground, vehicle transportation for their supply

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

An analysis of two women and their stories Essay

An analysis of two women and their stories - Essay Example The two women lived in a time when society was male-dominant. A woman's place was relegated to home and hearth and her entire existence revolved around the needs of her husband. Consequently Elisa Allen and the American wife are filled with a craving for some meaning in their lives and needs so powerful that it threatens to overwhelm them. They yearn for personal happiness that has been denied to them by marriage and society. Steinbeck's opening lines, "The high gray-flannel fog of winter closed off the Salinas Valley from the sky and from all the rest of the world. On every side it sat like a lid on the mountains and made of the great valley of a closed pot" capture Elisa's plight beautifully. She is shut off from the rest of the world and it seems to her like the fog will never lift. Elisa's husband means well but he is insensitive to her secret yearning and therefore he fails her. Her boundless energy is poured in concentrated amounts to numerous household chores and her beloved chrysanthemums but there is always a part of her which longs to rise above the low expectations society has for women. Thus she is a veritable cauldron, bubbling over with hope for something better than her life has to offer. Similarly Hemingway's protagonist is trapped in a loveless marriage with a controlling and negle

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Customer Service Operation and excellence (Scenario Based Project Essay

Customer Service Operation and excellence (Scenario Based Project Report) - Essay Example It is therefore important that the management of academic libraries understand that successful service organisations like successful product oriented firms, must understand the way the customer goes about making a decision to purchase a service, how quality is evaluated, and in what ways a company can present a â€Å"differential advantage† relative to the competition (Berkowitz et al. 1997, p. 352). According to Quinn (2007) in recent times the educational community, generally and the library profession in particular have placed increasing emphasis on the service quality model. This model has customer satisfaction as its primary objective as traditional measures of academic library quality such as collection size becomes secondary. In assessing service quality the customer compares expectations about the service offered to actual experience with the service. Gap analysis is a tool that is used to identify the differences (gap) between what is expected and what is experienced. According to Berkowitz et al (1997, p.353) this type of analysis requires consumers to assess their expectations and experiences on dimensions of service quality as described in the table that follows. Dimension Definition Reliability Ability to perform the promised service dependably and accurately. Tangibles Appearance of physical facilities, equipment, personnel and communication materials. Responsiveness Willingness to assist customers and provide prompt and efficient service Assurance Knowledge and courtesy of employee and their ability to convey trust and confidence to customers Empathy Caring, individualised attention that is provided to customers. Table 1 – Dimensions of Service Quality Adapted from Marketing 5th Edition – Berkowitz et al (1997, p. 353) Dimensions of service Quality in Academic Libraries In the context of service quality and customer satisfaction, of importance, is the need to look at the service that the library provides in order to see how i t can fulfil expectations. The role of the library is to provide resource materials for its customers. But, who exactly are these customers? They are students, administrators, faculty members and the general public. Reliability In terms of reliability the library must be able to provide the student with a book, journal or other resource material which will enable the completion of a required task. While the librarian is expected to provide the service in a timely manner, there is the need for the student to exercise some skills in how to access required materials to carry out his or her role. The librarian however, is available to provide some guidance but the student independence is of extreme importance in the development of worthwhile skills which will be required in the future. The student or faculty member will need, at some point in time, the necessary guidance from the librarian, who possess the necessary skills and experience, and who will be able to provide information and resources that will be useful in carrying out the required task in a timely manner. Tangibles While the aesthetics of the environment is of extreme importance, it is not very important in a non-profit making environment as it is in a profit making organisation. However, the library as a facility for research and a learning environment should provide a measure of relaxation and comfort that is conducive to studying. The emphasis is on providing an environment that will allow for the

Monday, September 23, 2019

I enjoy running Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

I enjoy running - Essay Example This is because running has had such a tremendous effect on my life in all spheres, it has, in a nutshell completed me wholly. Running has provided me with many precious opportunities, sticking to many different paths always took me to different places, that translated to many different faces. I would jog until i find a dead end, and so I would humbly scan for any person around for directions, often times a simple enquiry for directions would result in a twenty minutes talk as we’d discuss various issues as pertained the occasion, also, through running I have been able to develop my social skills with other joggers and also acquired great communication and interpersonal skills which are needful in one way or another in organizing jogging events or even sharing our personal opinions on our hobbies. Nowadays I find that am a lot talkative than I was earlier since there is always a fire within me that seeks to express myself to others with hope that I shall get to hear what drives them as well. I have also realized that it has become so easy for me to create rapport with other people as compared to my e arlier years. In consequence, running has had such a wonderful effect on me, it has enabled me to appreciate people as they are and respect them for who they are, jogging alongside people of all ages early in the morning before rushing to class has taught me how to appreciate company, do it with a team. Another effect that running has had on me is the development of perseverance and commitment, since I have always set imaginary goals on all my jogging activities, I have always tried so hard to reach my targets, though I have failed severally in the past, I have come to know that nothing is impossible for a dedicated person who is committed to achieving his/her goal. I have smashed my jogging record severally in a bid to astonish myself. I

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Women and marriages Essay Example for Free

Women and marriages Essay Women and marriages in Restoration comedies are satirised for being based on economic or other considerations rather than love and mutual affection. In the late seventeenth century expectations of women were that they were still meant to respect and be faithful to their husbands, but as R. C Sharma says In the latter half of the seventeenth century, the position of women in England had improved. Though legally they were still subordinate to men, the custom allowed them a larger measure of liberty and equality. In 1662, for the first time professional actress were allowed on the stage, showing that the status of women was improving and as in a lot of Restoration comedies, the heroines reflect an effort by women in Restoration society to both step up from the moral gutter and down from the pedestal. However in Act 1 of the satirical comedy, the views from the men on women are satirised. Act 1 is set at Horners lodgings late in the morning, with the entrance of Horner, the rake and Quack, Horners medical confidant. Later on, other characters enter. Horner, as the main character, shows many a time his opinion on women. He is interested in intelligent women But methinks wit is more necessary than beauty; and I think no young woman ugly that has it, and no handsome woman agreeable with out it. Here he is most probably describing the stereotypical city woman, as the women in The Country Wife have a sophisticated education. This also agrees with how he sees countrywomen, That grave circumspection in marrying a country wife is like refusing a deceitful pampered Smithfield jade. Here he is saying that to marry a country wife, must be as bad as having to turn down a disreputable woman. Women in the Restoration period, especially married women had a severe lack of rights, as on her wedding day, a woman surrendered her rights as a femme sole. As a married women, she was a femme covert. In the Country wife however because the position of women was slowly changing, the women in the play try to assert some control over the men. The men however still inferiorise women and make derogatory comment about them. Mistress are like books; if you pore upon them too much they doze you and make you unfit for company, but if used discreetly you are the fitter for conversation by em. This statement by Harcourt represents the general negative attitude of men in this play towards women, by comparing them to inanimate objects. The women are also referred to as animals by Horner, women of quality are so civil, you can hardly distinguish love from good breeding.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Empowerment of the American Noncommissioned Officer Essay Example for Free

Empowerment of the American Noncommissioned Officer Essay The American Noncommissioned Officer of today is held in high esteem by the Military. The Military considers the American Noncommissioned Officer as the backbone of the Army. The Military also considers the Noncommissioned Officer as a Professional Soldier, a soldier with special skills and an experienced leader. The Noncommissioned Officer is a soldier that makes a career of the Military more so than the Commissioned Officers. The Noncommissioned Officer of today can be found beside their Commanding Officer or other Commissioned Officers. But this was not always so (Cited in Gates, Vuonon Introduction 1775). Individuals outside the Military consider the Noncommissioned Officer as lazy, not worth the time to educate or even to train. And they don’t have the same skills as a Commissioned Officer. A stigma they still carry today with those outside the Military. Most non-military individuals have no idea what the noncommissioned officer education status is or what their career goals are. In order to understand the evolution of the Noncommissioned Officer, let’s go back to the beginning and move forward. The History of the Noncommissioned Officer is long and spans from the Revolutionary War to Present day. The Revolutionary War is where they held the status of the regular enlisted man. The Noncommissioned Officers status would change somewhat during this War. Their worth would be tested on and off the field of battle. Revolutionary War In 1775 all Noncommissioned Officers were as regular enlisted men until, a change in regulation was constituted, (Cited in Hogan, Fisch, Wright 2005, p. 24). Baron Fredrick Wilhelm Steuben’s Contribution Baron Fredrick Wilhelm Steuben joined the Revolutionary Army as a volunteer. He possessed considerable military knowledge. He wrote the new regulation for the Noncommissioned Officer, â€Å"The regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States 1779†. Noncommissioned Officers were selected by and responsible to the Commanding Officer and subject to the Battalion or Regiment Commander. Steuben’s regulation aided the Noncommissioned Officer’s evolving role as Care Taker of Soldiers. Steuben found this area weak in the Revolutionary Army. Steuben’s regulation also introduced a new emphasis on the Noncommissioned Officers battlefield role. Enhancing his status and further distinguishing him from his British counterpart. Steuben’s system provided training the Noncommissioned Officer in leadership skills. Under this new regulation the Noncommissioned Officer now stood behind the Commissioned Officer. He did not fire Volleys, but saved his ammunition for the protection of the Captain or Lieutenant. Noncommissioned Officers thus became essential figures in linear tactics that survived until the Civil War (cited in Hogan, Fisch, Wright 2005). Battle of 1812 The professional military was viewed by the civilians as dregs and too lazy to grasp the opportunities of a civil way of life. Professional education was unknown beyond rudimentary on the job instruction by the company or regiment. Noncommissioned Officer’s in Artillery, engineers, medical, and signal corps received specialized training (cited in Hogan, Fisch, Wright 2005). Major General Anthony Wayne and Secretary of War Jefferson Davis Contributions Major General Anthony Wayne and Secretary of War Jefferson Davis made sure Noncommissioned Officers were not disciplined in front of their men. Davis supported the commissioning of officers from Noncommissioned Officers that could pass the exam. Not withstanding their comparative low status the Noncommissioned Officers played a very critical role in the Army of the New Nation (cited in Hogan, Fisch, Wright 2005 p. 26). The Civil War The dynamics of the Noncommissioned Officer changes during the Civil War in a lot of different ways. The Army of the Union looses a quarter of its Commissioned Officers to sympathy with the Confederacy and leave to serve in the Confederacy. Providing an opportunity for the Noncommissioned Officer’s to elevate their status on the battlefield. Another change they will have to overcome is the advancement in weapons, and a change in battlefield tactics. Muskets were replaced with the rifle musket. With better aim and accuracy casualties were horrendous. Linear tactics were outdated with the advancement of these weapons. Even more powerful weapons were introduced late in the Civil War, breech-loading rifle, Calvary carbine and the Gatlin Gun. This underscored the need for more open formations than were called for during the Revolutionary War. Unit Commanders gradually introduced such formations to reduce the vulnerability of their men, due to the volume and accuracy of enemy fire. Bvt. Major General Emory Upton prepared a manual, greater emphasis upon simplicity of maneuver. His instruction could be taught more easily by the Noncommissioned Officers to the new troops, shortening training time and increasing the soldier’s effective term of service. The gradual elimination of linear tactics after the Civil War redefined the Noncommissioned Officers combat leadership roles†. (p. 28-29) Technology revolution continued to sweep all the Armies, supplying both the infantry and artillery weapons with greater lethality. These weapons finally broke the use of close masses types of battle to a more open order of combat. As the aim and accuracy improved with these newer weapons close massed combat was no longer feasible. Open combat brought the Noncommissioned Officer the opportunity of small unit leadership. Now the Noncommissioned Officer is maintaining order in a more complex battlefield (Cited Hogan, Fisch, Wright 2005 p. 30). 1898-1902 Upton states a warning of the inadequacy of the Noncommissioned Officers training. These years till the end of the Century bring changes to the Noncommissioned officer. The need for better training is ignored and would have to wait until World War I (Cited Hogan, Fisch, Wright 2005). The United States is now becoming a super power. The Government and its Citizens now have interests overseas. World War I II to Present day World War I opens the landscape of the modern warfare. This war produces massive changes in weapons and technology. The weapons are the Springfield rifle, submachine gun and the automatic machine gun. The combustion engine is introduced to the battlefield. With this engine a new type of dynamics are introduced late in the war. With the invention of the combustion engine comes the airplane and the gas powered truck and later the armored Tank. During the World Wars, were the wars of the NCO’s of the specialized divisions. These NCO’s show their skills as specialists in Artillery and weapons. Trench fighting combat takes its toll on the NCO’s and to generate more personnel they enlist the help of the retired NCO’s to train stateside, to produce already efficient soldiers with experience. This trend continues through World War II. Closing The Empowerment of the Noncommissioned Officer has been throughout history, from the different battlefields that they have fought on to the advancement of weapons to new technologies. All these have contributed to their empowerment on, and off the fields of battle. And new regulations and new reforms in their status have also aided them. Here history must speak for itself. The Noncommissioned officers were trained and educated and were prepared for their empowerment throughout history. The NCO’s of today have earned their right to be called the professional soldier. Non military individuals will continue to think of the NCO’s as shiftless and lazy, until they have read what has been accomplished by the NCOs. But history will speak for them. In my opinion this trend of empowerment will continue well into the future as long as there are wars to be fought and new battlefields to conquer you can count on the Noncommissioned Officer will be there to fight for our freedom.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Impact of International Organizations

Impact of International Organizations The formation of international organizations in the 20th century brought about the requirement for governance, without governance you don’t have the organizations. A formal organization uses governance as its governing body; whereas an informal organization uses governance as a guide to the types of rules and regulations that are relevant to their activities. Regardless of the status of an organization, whether it is geo-political entity, socio-political entity or corporate, its governance will always be based on their actions and how the rules and regulations are fashioned, sustained and regulated. Any international organization can have an impact on world governance, there should be no defined positive or negative impacts as all organizations have differing agendas and policies and they are all out for achieve the best possible results, whereas one organization could see a positive impact on an organizations actions another organization may see this differently maybe as a negative impact, It is all down to perception. United Nations The United Nations role in world governance is very limited; they are only there in an advisory capacity. They have no authority to exert any powers on world governance, they are simply there to foster co-operation between national governments. Global terrorism became at its most prevalent in the 1960’s, whilst the United Nations condemned the Hijacking of El-Al-Israel flight 426, they didn’t intervene in the events, and took no further actions against the terrorists. The reason why United Nations has a lack of support and is failing to assert its influence on national politics, is because their whole mission for international peace and security is totally undermined by the fact that their own Counter Terrorism Chief Jean Paul Laborde was quoted as saying â€Å"Hamas is not a terrorist organization in the United Nations†¦we should talk to Hamas because once the Israeli-Palestinian issue is resolved, the threat of terrorism will diminish† (Greenfield, 2013). If your own Counter Terrorism Chief can’t see what the rest of the world can see then, why would anyone want to put their faith in the United Nations? Economically for the United Nations to have a chance at surviving they need to ensure that they are fighting the causes from within and all singing from the same song sheet, having internal squabbles and disagreements bring resentment from within and this isn’t an acceptable way to run an organization, they also need to have stronger and more manageable international policies, a focus should be made on improving the recovery of failing member states, and boosting economic trade agreements, thus alleviating the financial stresses on the smaller member states by improving their financial stability. The United Nations advisory capacity has no real effect on national policies as they cannot enforce rules and regulations, suggestions and recommendations can be put forward but they don’t have to be abided by. For the United Nations to be taken seriously they must work together with governments and create a stable and workable multilateral system, and the government must become accountable for their decisions in the international and domestic fields. If the United Nations can overcome their social and economic issues then they will find that their peace keeping efforts will become easier to manage as they won’t have the dilemma of sovereignty versus human security, if the United Nations cannot be granted permission to intervene by the member state that needs assistance then the dilemma of sovereignty comes into play, because despite human security being a high priority the United Nations are still powerless to intervene. European Union The European Union partakes in a wide range of policies, be it economic, social, regulatory or financial, they take action when its actions are beneficial to its member states. The formation of the European Union has shifted the balance of political power in favor of their European states, they have unified the value of money and Euro is now the second mostly commonly held currency with the dollar being the most. The creation of a single free market has pushed the quality of products up and the overall costs down and travel between European counties is at an all-time high due to the availability of cheap air travel. The European Union were hit with their biggest economic threat so far, in 2011 the Greek debt crisis spiraled out of control; it was triggered by the 2008 economic recession and was directly linked to the collapse of the Greek economy. Greece required be bailed out from this situation and turned to the European Union for assistance. However rising debts from Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece and Spain made people think that the EU’s economic model may not be working and that bailing out these countries may not be in the best interests of the European Union, people questioned why the EU was continuing to bail out countries that constantly spent their money recklessly and increased their own debts to unsustainable levels. There should never again be war in Europe (Malmstrà ¶m, 2008). The EU has forged greater co-operation and better communication from all EU members and has brought peace and prosperity to its members, most are no longer living in a war torn world. The EU security policy has broadened over the years and security policy today incorporates everything from traditional military power to vigorous climate change and environmental efforts. Over all despite the economic crisis that the EU suffered, they seem to be having a positive effect on national politics, granted not all governments agree on how things should be done but the EU has a diplomatic approach to resolving any disagreements. It is a progressive organization and like most has had teething trouble, some of their own making and some not. I think a review of some of their strategies and polices may further strengthen their standing in the political field. North Atlantic Treaty Organization NATO’s role in world politics is dominated by their quest to prevent conflict, using democratic values, they push for greater communication and cooperation from member states to enable a sustained growth in resolving defense and security related issues. NATO’s influence in security issues is now on the decline, peacekeeping has been made easier by the many alliances that have now been forged. The war in Afghanistan has raged on for too long with little impact from NATO, they have been unable to defeat the Taliban, and when they pull out from Afghanistan, the Taliban will retake the areas that have been secured by NATO, undermining their whole effort. NATO is far from economically sound, if they were to forge better economic relations better and more secure transatlantic relationships between Europe and the United states, it would strengthen the global economic climate for all involved. A more economic NATO would enable better relations and aid NATO in securing better allies with Asia Pacific, whom are crucial to the world economy. NATO needs to expand their organization globally, as a regional organization they appear ineffective, If NATO can foster better relations in the Middle East it will not only boost them economically but also politically and will enhance their security efforts to a more global field. NATO need to be more economically viable to ensure they have the full support and backing of its members, they are losing people’s confidence as they seem ineffective in Afghanistan, they may have succeeded in other wars but this war is still raging and the people want to see an end, if there is no end then NATO will be seen as a failure. The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Companies (OPEC) The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Companies (OPEC) plays a major role in the influence of world politics, they have the ability to control the production of oil and how the prices can fluctuate. OPEC must use its political diplomacy to maximize its revenue, alienating a country based on political differences can mean the difference between oil prices rising and slower and less economic sales. OPEC has had issues in the past with supply and demand, and this is destabilizing them as an organization, people are losing faith in them and seeking alternative options. The countries that participate in OPEC have complete sovereignty over there natural resources and policies and OPEC needs to work with the participating countries to safeguard the interests of the social and economic developments of prices. Whilst most of OPEC’s commodities come from developing countries there is an issue with those countries being able to consistently supply oil and petroleum, OPEC must attract buyers and these buyers will be concerned as to the overall safety of the products due to issues like war and political battles. In 1973 an oil embargo was put in place and lasted until 1974, this had a massive economic impact on OPEC, they forced companies to increase payment for oil and this pushed the price of oil up to $12 a barrel, this impacted negatively on the United States and forced them to readdress the economic threat posed to the U.S. energies security. OPEC needs to develop better legal and regulatory policies so that countries can continue to develop and work on improving their efficiency and affectability whilst reducing overall costs. They need to look long term at the risk analysis of developing countries, and ensure future projects are more economically and socially profitable. If OPEC can address jurisdictional border policies then this will enable then to have more conclusive trade market opportunities. Without this they are vulnerable. Organization of American States (OAS) The Organization of American States (OAS) role in world politics is very turbulent whilst they promote initiatives and oversee human rights and security in the Americas, they have shown weakness for political power and their decision making has been questioned, they require a unanimous vote to make any decisions and this voting method leads to many hold up and deliberations that are deemed unnecessary and delay any action that can be taken. This prompts distrust and allows its member to question their affectability in world politics. OAS’s ability to manage security and sovereignty issues was tested in 2009 when Honduras had a leadership crisis; OAS was forced to suspend Honduras from the organization after an issued ultimatum to reinstate exiled president Zelaya was dismissed by Zelayas opponents. OAS sent monitors to Honduras to oversee the constitutional referendum, this was done at Zelayas request and the referendum was seen as unconstitutional by congress, OAS systematically failed in their attempts to resolve the Honduras situation and proved that they are very limited to what they can actually do in a crisis management situation. The economic outlook for OAS is very poor; In 2011 Republican David Rivera was quoted as saying The [Organization of American States] is an enemy of the U.S. and an enemy to the interests of freedom and security, (Isacson, 2012)as he joined a majority vote to sever U.S funding of OAS. OAS has failed to prove conclusively its affectability in situations it has been faced with, it is held back by governmental policy constraints and without major changes could cease to function as an effective organization. Whilst OAS is effective in certain areas they have proved on numerous occasions to be ineffective in security, sovereignty and economic issues, they were threatened with having their funding removed, congress has ruled that some of the decisions they have made have been unconstitutional, and this has had a wide ranging effect on future political issue, as it has alienated some of the countries that are members of OAS. To prove effective OAS needs to show that they have full solidarity within member countries, so far they have failed to do this. Conclusion International organizations have a hard job of juggling what is expected of them versus what they can legally do, people want interventions from these organizations but don’t fully understand some of the constrains that hold them back. Most organizations don’t have the legal authority to enforce rules and regulations, they can make recommendations but if they aren’t followed there is no way of enforcing there disregard of the recommendations. Governments can remove financial backing from the countries that don’t follow the recommendations, this serves as a warning to other countries that failure to comply will result in further sanctions being imposed. International organizations have a varied impact on the world; the organizations need to have better multilateral government backing, because despite the entirely positive things they try to achieve there is always a negative aspect that is stopping them from fully achieving this. Citations Greenfield, D. (2013, July 01). New UN counterterror chief doesn’t believe Hamas is a terrorist group. Retrieved from http://www.frontpagemag.com/2013/dgreenfield/new-un-counterterror-chief-doesnt-believe-hamas-is-a-terrorist-group/ Malmstrà ¶m, C. (2008, March 12). The role of the EU in world politics. Retrieved from http://www.government.se/sb/d/7973/a/100668 Isacson, A. (2012, May 22). Conflict resolution in the Americas: The decline of the OAS. Retrieved from http://www.worldpoliticsreview.com/articles/11979/conflict-resolution-in-the-americas-the-decline-of-the-OAS

Thursday, September 19, 2019

David Copperfield :: essays research papers

David Copperfield The novel David Copperfield, written by Charles Dickens, deals with the life and times of David Copperfield. About a century ago in a small town in England, David was born on a Friday at the stroke of midnight, which is considered a sign of bad luck. David's father has already died and his aunt comes to stay with him and his mother as this novel gets off to a very slow start. Soon David becomes aware that his mother has relations with another man and asks one of his servants, "if you marry a person, and the person dies, why then you may marry another person, mayn't you?" David is immediately angered that his mother has betrayed his father and goes off to live with his aunt. A while later, David goes back home but quickly gets into trouble and is sent off to school. Dickens uses excellent description in his telling of this story and the reader can easily relate to the characters. The setting of a small town in England is standard in all of his novels, including Great Expectations. The reason for this Dickens' setting is because he was born in the town of Portsmouth, England in 1812. Although as a young child he moved to Chatham where he experienced a pleasant childhood in which many scenes from his childhood are intertwined throughout his novels. Dickens father was constantly in debt and was eventually sent to jail. This memory was agonizing for young Charles as years later he wrote: "No words can express the secret agony of my soul. I felt my early hopes of growing up to be a learned and distinguished man, crushed in my breast." This directly relates to Dickens discussion of David in a wine house later in the novel. A couple of years later, Dickens attends school at the Wellington House Academy where he fell in love with Maria Beadnell but her father opposed the marriage and nothing became of it. David Copperfield is more of a biography of Dickens life made into fiction than of just a regular story about a boy. Dickens writing skills are apparent as he ties chapters together in an easy to understand novel where the writing seems to move along swiftly. Dickens work is rich with metaphors and enjoyable to analyze as in statements such as, "he eats at one gulp exactly like an elephant." This book is a classic and may be considered his best work. There are times when the novel moves slowly, but the positives outweigh the negatives and David

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Symbols and Symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthornes The Scarlet Letter Essay

Symbols in The Scarlet Letter      Ã‚   In nearly every work of literature, readers can find symbols that represent feelings, thoughts or ideas within the text.   Such symbols can be found in The Scarlet Letter, by Nathaniel Hawthorne.   Hawthorne's book about an affair between a woman named Hester and a minister named Arthur Dimmmesdale is full of feelings of sin, guilt, hate, secrecy, and honesty.   There are many symbols within the novel that can be interpreted to represent the key topics of the book.   Each of these symbols is an important part of the story, and connects to the situations that occur around them.   The main ideas of the novel are represented by recurring symbols in the text; the scaffold, scarlet letter, and forest.    The scaffold is a platform in the center of town, where criminals are put to death, and people guilty of minor crimes, put to shame.   "It was, in short, the platform of pillory, and above it rose the framework of that instrument of discipline, so fashioned as to confine the human head in its tight grasp and thus holding it up to the public gaze." (p.56)   In the beginning of the story, Hester Prynne is forced to stand on this platform for several hours as her sin is made publicly known.   Hester "sustained herself as best a woman might under the weight of a thousand unrelenting eyes."(p57)   Because she lives in a puritan society, Hester becomes an outcast after her sin is made known.   She has to live the rest of her life in shame and guilt because everyone now knows that Hester has committed adultery.   Later in the novel, Dimmesdale comes to stand on the scaffold with Hester and Pearl.   He is quite literally deteriorating from feelings of remorse and sh ame for what he did t... ... The main topics of The Scarlet Letter are depicted in three major symbols, the scaffold, scarlet letter, and the forest.   These symbols play important roles throughout the story and represent the emotions they inflict upon the characters.   Symbols can be found in nearly every book ever written.   Perhaps the author chooses to place distinct symbols within his writing, or maybe symbols form through coincidence.   Either way, it is up to the reader's judgment on how to interpret the symbols that he or she may find.    Sources Chase, Richard. "The Symbols of the Scarlet Letter." Readings on Nathaniel Hawthorne (pp. 145-152). San Diego: Greenhaven. (1996). Hawthorne, Nathaniel. The Scarlet Letter. New York: St. Martins, 1991. Scharnhorst, Gary. The Critical Response to Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter. New York: Greenwood, 1992.   

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Management and Smart Criteria

University of Phoenix Material Goal Setting Worksheet Review this week’s resources (for example SMART criteria, and the Career Plan Building Activities). Respond to the following in 50 to 100 words each: 1. Describe one academic goal that you have created using the SMART criteria. How do SMART criteria contribute to your academic goals? One academic goal that I am using with SMART is passing my classes with a least a C. SMART contribute to my academic goals by helping me to improve in my classes, help me to allocate time to important activities such as my family and help me reduce stress due to college life work and personal life. . Describe one professional/career goal you have created using the SMART criteria and Career Plan Building Activities results. How did the results of the Career Interest Profiler and Career Plan Building Activity on Competencies contribute to your professional goal development? One professional goal that I have created with using SMART is to win empl oyee of the year at my job. It contributes to my professional goal because I am a good listener. I like to work with people and I follow my employer’s rules. 3. Related article: Example Essay How to Study SmartDescribe the stress and time-management strategies you have learned this week that will help you achieve your goals. Stress and time management strategies that I have learned this week that will help me achieve my goals are to prepare myself for that goal. When study I should take breaks so that I will not be stressed. I will also adjust my plan each day. 4. Describe how you will balance academic expectations and your personal and professional responsibilities. I will balance my academic expectations, personal, and professional responsibilities by Equally I will give my attention to them all.I would come up with a schedule where I would set time slots to give my time to each . I think by doing this I will not feel overworked and over whelmed. 5. How can understanding the importance of SMART criteria and your career interests and competencies help you move towards your career and academic goals? Understanding the importance of SMART and my career interest can help me move in my career and academic goals by helping me to stay focus and take control of my life direction. Using SMART can help me to be and stay motivated to see if I am succeeding in achieving my goals.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Importance of Baptism

Importance of Baptism It has great significance. It is an outward symbol of an inner change and transformation that is supposed to take place beforehand. It is an act of sincerity and purity. So what exactly is this? – Baptism. In Christianity, Baptism is very important and signifies the beginning of a new life. It takes a lot of courage and fortitude to make this decision. Baptism is very important. Jesus said â€Å"If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (Luke 9:23). Baptism goes hand in hand with this scripture from the bible. When one is baptized, he or she is making a decision to stand with God and not conform to traditional values/ways of the society. They’re making a decision to start afresh and be renewed. Also, they are to leave behind their past life as quoted in the scripture. â€Å"Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and cov etousness, which is idolatry. † (Colossians 3:5)So why exactly is baptism important? Well, It is very important to understand that baptism guarantees no one an entrance into the gates of heaven. If there isn’t true conversion, being baptized would be meaningless. In the bible, Jesus said, â€Å"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. † (Mark 16:16). It is obvious that baptism is very important to Jesus. It is also an important role to one, as a Christian. Since it was important to him, it should be important to us followers.The best and very significant quote from the bible that explains how important baptism is is in Matthew 28:19-20. This is also very important due to the fact that it was one of Jesus’ closing words here on earth. It says, â€Å"†Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all t hings whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. â€Å"

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Psychoanalytical Approach Essay

?1. Psychoanalytical Criticism ?2. Psychoanalytical criticism is a type ofcriticism that uses theories of psychology to analyze literature. It focuses on theauthor’s state of mind or the state of the mind of fictional characters. ?3. Sigmund FreudPsychoanalytical criticism originated in the workof Sigmund Freud. Freud’s theories areconcerned with the nature of the unconsciousmind. According to Freud, the human mindconsists of three parts: the id, the ego andsuperego. ? The id is source of our instinctual and physical desires. ? The superego is the part of the psyche that has internalized the norms and mores of society. ? The ego is keeps mediating between the demands of the id and the superego. It is rational, logical, and conscious. ?4. Repression? We often repress what the id encourages us to think and do because the ego and superego tell us not to think and do, therefore forcing these unacceptable wishes into the unconscious. All of us have repressed wishes and fears.? Repressed desires emerge in disguised forms: dreams and language (slips). They emerge in symbolic form that require  analysis to reveal their meaning.? Many elements of psychology that Freud described appear in literary works. ?5. Freudian Literary Criticism? Freudian critics try to understand how the operations of repression structure or inform the work They pay close attention to unconscious motives and feelings, whether these be those of the author, or of the characters depicted in the work.? They demonstrate the presence in the literary work of classic psychoanalytic symptoms or conditions. ?6. Carl Gustav Jung and Jungian literary Criticism? Jung developed the theory of the collective unconscious, a collection of shared unconscious memories dating back to the origins of human experience and manifested in dreams, myths, and literature.? A great work of literature is not a disguised expression of repressed wishes, but a manifestation of the desires one held by the whole human race, and now repressed because of the advent of civilization.? Jungian analysis of literature tries to discover the images in a work of literature that a permanent and universal significance. ?7. Harold Bloom and the anxiety of InfluenceThe most important contemporary psychological criticis Harold Bloom. Bloom uses the Freudian concept ofrepression to apply it to literary history in general. Nopoet creates in isolation from his predecessors. In TheAnxiety of Influence, he argues that poetsunconsciously misread the poems of their greatpredecessors. The new poems are essentiallyrewritings of poems by a father-figure predecessor. Poets keep struggling to free themselves from thisinfluence of father-figure poets.

Saturday, September 14, 2019

Love for Cooking Essay

To Be Graded Goal: In this paper I tried to open to different ideas to cooking opposed to giving directions about how to cook. I tried to provide each reason with two examples to give readers a better understanding about what food can really be about. Evaluation: I feel like I did good on the overview on covering all the basics on cooking to where it’s understandable and relateable opposed to writing is as a recipe or directions list that most people would think cooking is about. Cooking a satisfying dish has three aspects. The first aspect that is usually the most important is eating with the eyes. An example is how the dish is plated, how it smells, and how appealing and appetizing it looks to the eye. Another example that compares to the first example is that if food is plated sloppy or looks and smells unappetizing, it generally doesn’t catch peoples attention. A second aspect that relates to the first aspect is using fresh ingredients. Using fresh ingredients means a healthier meal, and also getting natural vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, and ect. Another example is using fresh food opposed to processed food, because everyone wants to knows what they’re eating. One last aspect is making the dish taste fantastic. A dish that tastes good has people eating more of it, even though it might not be good for them to over-stuff. Another reason is people asking for the recipe or asking the chef to prepare their meals boost confidence in the chef knowing she made a good meal for everyone. One thing that will always remain is that feeling of providing something delicious for the community that has them cominging back and a sense of happiness and successfullnes in a chef.

Business Environment in Cuba

Business Environment in Cuba Cuba is a beautiful country that lies to the north of the Caribbean Sea, the Mexican gulf and the Atlantic Ocean. It is made up of several islands and among the island of Cuba is the largest. Its total area is 109,884 km2 making 104 th in the world. Its population according to 2015 census was 11239,004 making it 78 th most populous country. Its GDP, according to the 2014 estimate was 82.775 billion, making it to be in top ten in countries with high GDP. Its major trading partners include Canada, China, Venezuela, Netherlands, and Spain. Its major exports are sugar, fish, fruits, agricultural produce, and livestock. It also has nickel mines and its contribution to the international market amounts to 4 percent. It is also a major producer of sugar and was accounting for 36 percent of the total amount of sugar produced, but a recent survey reveals that it only supplies a 10 percent as of 2014. Cuba is one the countries that practice socialism in their administration and had close t ies with USSR before its collapse [1] . After the collapse of the Soviet Union the country experienced hard economical times characterized by food shortages, lack of proper medical services caused by emigration of doctors and general decline in all the sectors of the economy [2] . The Cuban government came up with a new guideline for foreign investment that states that the profits tax be reduced into half and ensure foreign companies are not taxed for a period of 8 years in order to attract foreign investment. It has done away with duty free zones and industrial parks in a quest to increase investment opportunities. Investment is encouraged in all the sectors of the economy except in public health and education sectors. Due to their strict laws on the conservation of the environment, any company that its business interferes with the environment is prohibited. Foreign investment proposal goes through the ministry of trade and foreign investment, which is later approved, by the Coun cil of State, and Council Minister. The corporate tax incentive is at 30 percent. Several companies operate in Cuba mostly from Canada, China, Russia and Brazil. No company from the united sates operates in Cuba but its products can be found in Cuban markets. Such companies include Sherritt International, Macdonald’s Mining Corporations, Air France, Lufthansa, Mitsubishi, Toyota, and Mercedes Benz among Others. The country has experienced all forms of violence in the past and has had bitter relations with the United States after the overthrowing of the then government by Fidel Castro in 1959. Since then, the communist party led by Fidel Castro as the president until 2008 when he retired and was succeeded by his brother Raul Castro has governed it. Due to its past relations with the US, there have been very many conflicts with the tiny island nation. Due to its alignment with the USSR during the cold war, it worsened its relations with the west and in 1961; a nuclear war alm ost broke out with Cuba and the US. With the introduction of the communist party, which is the only political party there, has been so much abuse of human rights in the country. There is no freedom of expression and journalists are arrested and jailed for speaking against the government. Many organizations and governments have voiced their worries that the situation in Cuba is bad for its citizens as the government was exercising all forms political dissent such as arbitrary imprisonment, extrajudicial killings torture, and unfair trials. The statistics of 2008 show that Cuba had the second number of imprisoned journalists. The country has an extensive maximum-security system totaling to 40 and various work camps. The people are confined in the prisons where they face torture and sexual harassment coupled with poor living conditions. The Cuban human rights watch reported that in 2010 there were 167 political prisoners. The country also restricts emigration, obtaining a passport is v ery expensive, and only few people can afford. There is limited internet access to the government only operating 118 cybercafà ©s and the sale of computers is highly restricted. With these conditions, investing in Cuba may be very challenging [3] . Cuba’s scenery is beautiful and attracts many tourists to come and watch its vast beauty and natural resources. There is range of plant and animal species only found in Cuba. In fact, 22 percent of its total area is restricted for conservation of the natural environment. It enjoys large plantations of sugarcane, mines, and advanced medicine production plants. However, the government controls 90 percent of the factors of production. The state runs and operates most of the firms and employs 78 percent of the labor force with the private sector dismally at 22 percent as per 2006 statistics [4] . Penetrating into Cuba for a private company the firm has to pay the government, which in turn pays the employees. This may not be favorabl e for any business because there will be no motivation of the labor force. A firm may face labor challenges venturing into Cuba because the workers are poorly paid, and are not represented by the trade union. The average monthly salary is 19 US dollars, which is relatively low to expect a large output from them. The transparency international survey of 2008, ranked Cuba as the 67 th most corrupt in the world. The corruption perception index (CPI) showed that Cuba scored 4.3 which rates from zero (highly corrupt) to 10 (highly clean). Corruption is rampant because the state owns all the resources and getting services from the government officials one has to pay a bribe.   The government lacks accountability as there are no pressure groups in the country and corruption is highly practiced by top government official such as the military officials who enjoy favors that ordinary Cubans cannot have. A ministry to investigate corruption was set in 2001 to eliminate corruption and bring accountability in the government, which is a good gesture towards the step towards the right direction. Cuba has one of the lowest unemployment rates, and as of 2015, the rates were 2.40 percent. This is a very low percentage and this can be attributed by the firm grip of the government owning all the factors of production. The government has established work camps, which employ most of the people [5] . If you are to venture into Cuba and the form of business you wish to conduct is labor intensive then looking for labor may be a challenge because the population is engaged. On the other side, high employment ensures that there is money in the economy, which increases demand for goods and services. This would ensure that the firm might grow the economy with high standards of living, proper medical services, and high levels of literacy levels, gain some big sales. Before the collapse of the USSR, the Cubans enjoyed a good life with a vast. After it abandoned them, the country was plunged into crisis and general decline of the economy [6] . Since the collapse of the COMECON, Cuba has not joined any trading block and has since concentrated on building its communist policies. However, it trades with the MERCUSOR members such as Brazil. The sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union did hurt its economy. The US has enforced an embargo on Cuba, but things are looking good as president, Obama made his trip to Cuba and it is a step towards the right direction. The economy is recovering due to trade between it and Canada, especially through its tourism sector.   However, the government needs to do a lot, reduce its force on the people, and give them freedom.

Friday, September 13, 2019

Virtual Child Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Virtual Child - Essay Example My virtual child did not feel too close to his father because the father was not within the proximity of the child too often. The child starts recognising the persons in the surrounding by sensing the smell. The touch, sight and smell are important elements to provide comfort to the child. For the mother of course it will be next to impossible to forget the pains with which she is able to have the child. While early on the baby appears confused as the sensory mechanism is not fully developed, at 3-month old period the child is certainly in a position to recognise the parents and tries to feel better in the company, while resisting the efforts of others in taking control. 8-month period is certainly a long period for the child-parent relationship. The child starts uttering few words and indulges in some innocent sign language, which helps the bonding amongst the individuals. 2. Describe and give examples of changes in your child's exploratory or problem solving behavior from 8 through 18 months and categorize them according to Piaget's theory and information processing theories. Note that 8 months is included, so you'll need to use the time-line to look back at 8 months for examples. The period between 8 and 18 months happens to... These changes take place with active support from parents. Jean Piaget explained in 1930s that the cognitive development in child passes through four phases, namely (Meadows, 1987); Sensory-motor (first 2 years) Pre-operational (from 2 to 7) Concrete operational (from 7 to 10). Formal operational (10 onwards) In this case the period upto 18 months will be the one where the sensory power will be developed. 3. Analyze your own parenting philosophy and practices. What principles from social learning theory, Bowlby, Ainsworth, Piaget, Vygotsky, information processing theory, developmental neuroscience and other theories do you appear to have relied on in making your parenting choices or interpreting your child's behavior Include three principles/theorists from the above list in your answer. Mary Ainsworth expanded upon the theory of Bowlby and tried to observe the growth of 12-18 months. The 'strange situation' is one of the pioneering works of Ainsworth. Based on this Ainsworth underlined three major styles of attachment, namely, secure attachment, ambivalent-insecure attachment, and avoidant-insecure attachment. Piaget came out with the cognitive theory by analyzing how the minds of children work and develop over the years in view of the surroundings and the style of grooming by parents. He concluded that the development of thinking is not smooth in kids, instead it develops into stages. 18 months, 7 years and 12 years have been found out as three critical stages by Piaget for this purpose. Vygotsky social development theory underlines the importance of social interaction in the cognitive development of a child. Slightly differing with Piaget, Vygotsky inferred that development follows social learning. Therefore, as per this theory spending

Thursday, September 12, 2019

Legal enviroment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Legal enviroment - Essay Example Furthermore, the essay also intends to explore if an individual is capable of self-regulation and how ethics can influence the regulation process. Issue The main concern in the context of government regulations in business area is that whether such regulations are necessary. The problem with respect to regulations is that thorough imposing them, the activities of people become delimited and thus managed by the government, thereby violating the rights of individuals. By regulations, the choices of people to conduct certain commercial activities are also restricted. Besides, it has also been argued that low regulations in business and low government intrusion can facilitate people and businesses to earn more revenue and thus they can spend more on economic development. However, to a certain extent government regulations in business is necessary in order to support productive business practices. Reasoning According to Jefferson (2012), human beings are able to live in a society, govern themselves by self-imposed regulations and secure the pleasure of life, freedom, property and peace. The basic reasoning behind self-regulation is that people have absolute rights regarding life and liberty to pursue happiness. Government regulations, if considered necessary, are introduced to secure the sanctification of these rights. The main reasoning behind regulations is that government has a responsibility to oversee the activities of people, because they cannot be trusted for making the proper choices. In the context of business, government regulations are used to control such activities which can otherwise result in business and ultimately market failure. For certain individuals, self-regulation is a contradictory element of business, but it also provides several advantages in the field of business. The five potential benefits of self-regulation are immediacy, flexibility, obedience, cooperative interests of industry and resources. On the other hand, self-regulation also has several disadvantages which comprise conflict of interest, insufficient consents, under enforcement, international competition and inadequate resources. Evidently, self-regulations comprise both benefits and limitations. Thus, it is neither an integrally effective nor an ineffective way to govern business conducts. The key challenge is to derive the condition in which self-regulation can be regarded as the proper strategy to encourage ethical behavior and also to find ideal methods of planning self-regulatory organizations. In reaction to corporate frauds, it is reasonable to decide who should regulate the behavior of business organizations and business transactions. In this context, it can be stated that it is not a simple choice to follow either government regulation or self-regulation, rather it is a query of how self-regulation can be utilized (Coglianese et al., 2004). Even if self-regulations have received blame from public due to corporate frauds, it cannot be uninhibited co mpletely. As an alternative, the solution would be to change the inner governance system of the self-regulatory organizations by permitting them new power or altering the level of government observation (Coglianese et al., 2004). Analysis Several sectors of businesses have long complained regarding government regulations and their restrictive characteristics. Government regulat

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

Personal Statement for Admission to UCSD Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

For Admission to UCSD - Personal Statement Example I did not have the usual experiences that children have. I never asked my mom to buy anything special for me because I knew how hard she was working just to put food on the table. During middle school, when my mom gave me lunch money each day, I chose not to buy anything. In fact, when I came home, I put the money back into her purse without her knowing about it. When I was 14 year-old, I found my first job doing construction work. As soon as I finished school, I grabbed a quick bite to eat and went straight to my job; I wouldn’t get home until 11 p.m. While I was there, I mopped, painted, and operated jackhammers and drills to break up concrete. The job was physically hard; at times I was left with dry blood around my finger nails. Moreover, my feet hurt so bad due to the cheap shoes I was wearing, but I did not let my mom notice how difficult life was for me. I did not give up on my schoolwork because school was incredibly important to me. The reason is that I wanted somethi ng better for my family! I did not want my would-be kids to experience what I did. However, attaining an education in Baghdad was difficult due to the limited resources we had; there were no internships, field trips, labs, technology, or anything like that. To make it even worse, the standard of education deteriorated after the war because everyone was scared to go to school; even the teachers did not care about their students. I had no choice but to come to the United States to seek for a better future. When I was 16, I heard about the UN refugee agency. I applied right away and explained that I wanted a better future. As soon as I realized that I might be coming to the United States, I began improving my English skills; I started working twice as hard in school. A couple of years after I made an application to the UN refugee agency, I was accepted and received a flight appointment. I first came to the U.S. in 2009. In two months after I arrived I got my first job where I was event ually promoted to the position of manager. After this, I was able to buy my first car and put some money aside for my savings. The reason why I am writing this personal statement to apply to UCSD is because I want to accomplish the dream that I have always wanted for myself and my family. Coming to the U.S. was the proudest moment in my life; it helped give me a different perspective on things. Furthermore, it made me see how important education is. I now have confidence in myself and I realize that I can do anything in this world: there is nothing that I cannot achieve. What is your intended major? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had in the field - such as volunteer work, internships and employment, participation in student organizations and activities - and what you have gained from your involvement. Ever since I was a small child wandering around aimlessly at the clinic of our neighborhood dentist, I found myself constantly gazing at the anatomical diagram of the human body that hung on the front door. This was the same diagram that all the other kids were scared to look at. All that blood, flesh, and bones did not intimidate me; it actually perked up my interest. I have always been extremely fascinated by the human body and how it functions. After the war began in Baghdad in 2003, there were a couple of explosions in the neighborhood next to my family. These