Moral absolutism Essay

The choices we make in our everyday life all have to do with our ethics. In this paper the topic will discuss the similarities and differences between virtue theory, utilitarianism, and deontological ethics. In order to understand the similarities, and differences of virtue theory, utilitarianism, and deontological ethics we must first define them. Virtue theory is defined as a moral excellence. It is a positive trait quality demand to be morally good and is valued as a foundation of principle and good moral being. It takes the viewpoint that in living your life you should try to cultivate excellence in all that you do and all that others do. Utilitarianism is a theory that suggests that an action is morally right when that action produces more utility for the group than any other alternative. We need to understand what our consequence would be based on our choice. When we make the right choice we will get a positive consequence and are acting morally; if we make the wrong choice the consequences will be acting immorally. Deontological moral is focused on loyalty to independent moral rules or duties. To make the right choices we need to comprehend what our duties are and the rules of our moral perspective. This is a matter of what we view to be moral or immorally based on our beliefs. The similarities between the three theories represent the good in people and how they strive for excellence. The differences are with virtue theory describes a person’s character, cultivating excellence in all we do. Utilitarianism addresses ethical and morality issues by addressing the balance of good over bad consequences. The morality associated with this theory suggests actions that produce a total utility for the group. Deontological ethics have a definition of a definition of a person’s dedication to recognize moral duties. In my current position as an assistant manager I am often put in a situation that includes some type of confidentiality with an associate that falls under me. If I am told about a certain situation that an associate is having in their personal life I have been told in trust and this be unethical for me to tell everyone else what is going on. Also when I have to write up any associate for work performance, that should be kept between me and that associate. For me to be able to keep my word about a particular situation involving any of my associates consist of moral concepts. Values, virtues, and ethics distinguish those actions as being morally right or morally wrong.

Multicultural nature of the American nation Essay

In an in-depth interview with a subject of Japanese origin (twenty years old, living in the U. S. for three years) the differences between Western and Far-East cultures became evident. Given the multicultural nature of the American nation, the subject has not encountered any direct discrimination or intolerance; however, she had problems with adjusting to cultural norms and everyday lifestyle of Americans. In college, the subject was respected for her academic achievements, honesty, and desire to help. Unfortunately, she was unable to integrate fully in the social life of her classmates. She had problems making nodding acquaintance and starting small talks. At the same time, she truly treasured friendship and was spending long hours talking to her friends back in Japan on a messenger. This can be explained by the fact that Japanese society favors long-term orientation. Another problem with social integration was that the subject was not perceived as a party person. She was very anxious about breaking camp or traffic rules and preferred not to drink alcohol. Although the general attitude towards her was friendly, she could not develop a feeling of belonging. As concerns private life, the subject has only dated persons from her own cultural background (i. e. preferably Japanese but Asian in general). This can be attributed to the subject’s views on the role of woman in the society: Japan is a country where traditional masculine dominance is still preserved. Therefore, the subject is looking for stability and protection from the side of her partners, and few young American mean are able to deliver this, in her opinion. Therefore, it is possible to conclude that persons from other cultures encounter difficulties in the process of integrating in the American society.

Launching the BMW Z3 Roadster Essay

BMW Z3 is the first BMW car which is being manufactured in North America which has not been a very big market [roughly around 16%] for BMW because of the inability of the American customer to associate with a foreign brand. Therefore the sales and marketing approach of BMW Z3 will lay the foundations of the future of BMW brand in America. Their phase I was a success, and they had two months between the launch and the product availability to further ingrain their brand image in the hearts of the Americans. So how to strengthen their brand campaign for the coming two months was their main concern. Brand symbol is an important aspect in the automobile industry as it is the brand image that drives the person to buy the automobile and defines the target market and therefore the revenues. This could be supported from the past: their shift in positioning from â€Å"yuppie status† to â€Å"Ultimate Driving Vehicle† led to a 18% increase in sales in one year. For BMW Z3 brand they wanted to preserve their reputation for driving performance but reposition their cars as stylish and fun to drive so that they settle into the minds and hearts of the American public and the vehicle becomes a cultural icon. With the plan of leveraging the excitement and enthusiasm of the customer base in a way that it will draw maximum attention and interest to the brand â€Å"non-traditional† marketing methods were chosen. These methods were more cost efficient because of the psychographic segmentation and delivered to a broader base which was the major intention of BMW. It was also different and unconventional which was what BMW wanted to associate with their unique brand. All their various marketing campaigns which included release of â€Å"Golden Eye†, in which their car was featured as â€Å"Bond’s car†, screening in the â€Å"Tonight Show†, Central Park launch event, radio DJ program, Neiman Marcus Catalog Offer and the video were completed by November which were roaring success and helped in building the required brand image which were reinforced through the traditional media campaigning in December. These campaigns were successful as they were able to generate favorable product reviews and they also resulted in 9000 pre-bookings much higher than the expected 5000. As an asset a brand name has to be carefully managed so that its brand equity does not decrease. Therefore BMW will have to take up some brand building initiatives so that the brand name remains in the market. As they have got more than expected pre-orders which is going to strain their existing process there is no point in going for sales increasing marketing strategies. It should be related to customer satisfaction because if these customers become advocates for BMW Z3 they will be able to convince more prospects in their reference groups to become customers. Through these customers BMW can also get data regarding the various cultural, personal, social and psychological factors that drove them to buy BMW Z3 on which they could base their second phase of brand building events. So therefore in January their first initiatives should be to send survey forms and invites for an exclusive test run for the various customers who have placed orders. Then in the month of February have road shows throughout the country where the prospective buyers of the car will have a first hand feel of the car they are going to buy. This will help in building a market through customer referral and building a â€Å"pull† market for the car rather than a â€Å"push† market. Customers could also be given details of their car and the various facilities they get as a package along with the car so that can perceive a higher â€Å"customer delivered value† for their car. In addition the people who attend the promotion shows could be given t-shirts with the logo â€Å"I have driven BMW 3Z† to further increase the brand awareness and strengthen the IInd phase of branding. The car could also be taken out on long drives through the cities where there will be maximum visibility. The above brand campaigns will not be able to generate any leads in the present but will help in bringing twin advantage of brand recall and improving customer rating of the brand.

International Trade Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

International Trade - Essay Example Up course it not new phenomena, instead similar strategies have been pursued by countries from the past few years (1). Countries were taking steps to reduce trade barriers such as tariffs to encourage trade, and opening their markets to the world and gain maximum advantage of it. If we go through the modern history, we can see that there was a shift in world trading system among bilateralism, regionalism and multilateralism. In the late 19th and the early 20th century, there was a dominance of bilateral trading system as the trade agreements were negotiated on a bilateral basis between individual countries. Such activities were initiated by England in the 1860s and 1870s as it pushed its trading partners to sign trade agreements. But, after Second World War, trade at multilateral and regional level was gained importance in place of bilateral system. During the period 1940-1990, multilateral trade system gets importance as more and more nations joined the GATT or its successor, the WT O. But, in contrast post 1990 period once again witnessed the dominance of bilateralism which is dubbed as the failure of WTO negotiations at the 1999 Seattle ministerial conference. In addition, regional trade agreements were also gets importance during the period (2). ... ountervailing duties, taxes, environmental, health and safety certification requirements, duties, anti dumping measures, laws, quotas, customs, and licensees are the main hurdles in the way of international trade. Generally, these trade barriers were necessary for countries to protect domestic producers from foreign competition. But, in modern years, international organisations such as WTO were introduced several measures for improving free trade, and as a result the role played by tariffs in international trade has been declined. World Trade Organisation, which came in place of General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) generally, deals with regulation of trade between the participating countries. Countries are using barriers in these days to evade free trade rules framed by international trade agreements such as WTO, North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), or European Union (EU) as they restrict the use of tariffs. Moreover, usage of these barriers in international trade ha s been raised sharply after the WTO rules led to a very significant reduction in tariff use. Sometimes countries voluntarily restrict imports of goods from outside as a safe guarding measure in limiting the competition that domestic industries have to face from the imported goods. Some times it is a retaliation technique for countries in case they think that a trading partner has not played by the rules. Many a time’s governments intervened in international trade to safe guard their national security. Generally, almost all countries arranged their defence system from military attack and they cannot leave it to the private sector as the national security is a public issue. So, this is a major issue for any country, and taken into account whenever it starts trade with other trade barriers

Anti-Heroism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Anti-Heroism - Essay Example To make matters worse there lacks archives of heroes who have made remarkable progress in the country or changed the society positively. The pictures and writing are only owned by individual authors and this does not mean that they have been endowed by the society as heroes. Previous people who could have been regarded as heroes by the Canadians played a great role in evoking a notion that heroism is a belief by people. This was done through refusing all means by the public to crown them as heroes despite their heroic actions that they have done. Since then Canadians rarely appreciates people who have worked hard for the benefit of other people or society at large. A hero can simply be defined as a person who has shown remarkable courage and ability and is admired for the brave deeds which are of high and noble qualities. On the other hand, heroism is a conduct exhibited by a person and results to a high purpose. The definition of these two terms gives us the platform to argue that h eroes need to be recognized and respect in order to encourage other people to work hard for the welfare of the country at large. Canada lack of appreciation to people who can be regarded as heroes in other countries discourages potential heroes from taking up a heroic move or action. The writer is therefore right to argue that this Canadian culture has led to individualism. Lack of this virtue by the public makes it hard for the people to act on their own because they don't consider other people's role that they play in their lives.

Methods Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Methods - Assignment Example There are other scholars with similar contribution (e.g., Fearon 1998; Lake and Rothchild 1996). A contention by (Saun and Tirone 2011) is that democratic transitioning develops an environment that easily encourages the rise of conflicts through the induction of exclusionary polarization and nationalism in the society. Significant exceptions towards the democratization-conflict tendency emerge in such countries as Tanzania, Malawi, Burkina Faso, and Kenya, all having experienced a democratic move within 20 years period without encountering much civil conflict. The authors argue that the key factor that â€Å"shelters† such democratizing states from violence comes from the democratization aid (Saun and Tirone 2011). The proposition by Snyder (2000) regarding instability indicates that in the initial phases of democratization are favored by two conditions via which civil conflict may emerge: there is the exploitation of rising nationalism by political elites, in the name of achieving their selfish ends and, therefore, creating society divisions, and that there is a general weakness on the side of central government in preventing the polarizing tactics of elites. (Saun and Tirone 2011) proposes that the assistance programs of democracy can potentially provide a restrictive force regarding the danger of politically initiated domestic violence; notably, even when a state lacks strong institutions, which would help, manage democratization, democracy aid can potentially provide an external source of stability, strength, and state credibility to ease the transition. The role played by the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) when Indonesia underwent the transition. Ideally, Indonesia attained democracy in 1999 from the Suharto’s regime (Saun and Tirone 2011). Some of the specific ideas developed as measurable and testable variables can be identified from the literature

Reflectiv Writing - The Impact of the Voice of Judgment as a Barrier Assignment

Reflectiv Writing - The Impact of the Voice of Judgment as a Barrier to Moving Through the U - Assignment Example As leaders move from the downward side of the U, they are connected to a world which is outside their institutional bubbles. The movement up the other side of the U brings forth a new experience to the world. In this journey, the bottom section bears a gate which requires a person to drop anything that is not essentially to leadership and their duties as leaders. This is a process of letting go of one’s ego and self and letting come the new future possibilities. The journey is however not an easy one as it experiences a lot of barriers. One of the common barriers is the voice of judgment. Journeying through the U requires seven leadership capacities with the second one being observation. This leadership capacity calls for an open mind. To be able to achieve this, the leader must suspend his voice of judgment. It is only through it that an individual and a leader will be able to move from projection to true observation. According to Kidder (2005), various leadership failures are as a result of the struggle between letting go and holding on. It, therefore, requires one to confront his or herself with very difficult yet purposeful choice of having an open mind. It takes a lot of courage for this to happen. When the line has been crossed, an individual enter into the sense of their true nature and are able to heed to the call of leadership. They then undergo the death/ rebirth and start a journey into restructuring of their egos to emerge as freer leaders (Bennis, Goleman, & O’Toole, 2008). This is a journey and a process that not only make them soulful but also creative and innovative. When the gate is crossed and the voice suspended the individual’s inner flame for creative change and ability to move forward is boosted. Bennis, Goleman & O’Toole (2008) state that majority of the leaders do not recognize the potential of what they are faced with because they excessively dwell on the past trend that they are used to. Working as a work shop

Jack Kerouac Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Jack Kerouac - Essay Example However, this work cannot be discussed out of context. Therefore, it is important to also discuss the Beat Movement and its relation to Jack Kerouac to better understand the literary piece, and to provide substantial arguments. John Kerouac and the Beat Movement John Kerouac is the acknowledged leader of the literary artists belonging to the Beat Movement. This movement promotes countering the cultures during the 1950s, whereby resisting conformity expectations of the middle class American culture. This movement was joined by literary artists, who exploit their literary talents to convey and create works with values and topics of poverty, immigration, sex, drugs, eastern philosophers (Buddhism) and American Jazz musicians. These values and topics have been evident in the work of Kerouac, On The Road. This piece has expressed the perceptions and rationality of those belonging to the movement. Through a fictional story, it depicts the group, whereby they refuse to acknowledge various d ominating values and beliefs during the period. In particular, the Beat rejects materialism and conformity, which was said to be the expectation of the American middle class. Rejection of Conformity in Middle Class American Based on the work of Kerouac, the main aim of the Beat Movement (based on the book) is to restore the authenticity of humans in the culture of the prepackaged life--- that is conformity. To note, this era was a proliferation of freedom repression. It is apparent that the Beat Movement aspires to influence the society in reinventing the dominant culture through writings. By narrating his and his friends travel experiences, he instills the importance of freedom in a world governed by norms. Their deviation from uniformity was characterised by their travels on the road. Despite believing in the power of language, the Beat movement continues their fight by living what they write. That is, they are able to deliver their sentiments by living â€Å"freely† with d rugs, religion, voluntary poverty, affirmation to third sex and alcoholism. These elements are distinctively clear in their writings, as well. Moreover, it is often emphasised from the book that residing in a particular area is never permanent. This paper perceived this reflects the ambition of the Beat to create a new value and faith outside the values which forcibly shape their lives and beliefs. Provided with this, the Beat pointed out that the ultimate dream is not to conform to society, but rather it is the freedom from the conservative society they belong to. They perceive such conservatism as a curtailment of their freedom to express themselves. Hence, the primary rationale on why the Beat rejects conformity is the hopes of circumventing the restrictions associated with the expectations of the American middle class. On the second note, the book demonstrated that the Beat rejected American Middle class restrictions as it also promotes materialism and consumerism in the capital ist society. This means that the Beat rejects conformity as they do not believe in materialism. Acquiring this value does not guarantee happiness despite one’s abounding wealth. The Beat recognised the importance of spiritual fulfillment, which will not be attained by materialistic values. The characters’

Macbeth Drama Review Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Macbeth Drama Review - Essay Example bid to prevent his children from succeeding the throne of Scotland furthermore in Act 1 scene 7,lady Macbeth also taunt Macbeth to screw his ambition and courage to the sticking place after he had reflected on what he needs to attain his ambition, it highlights the destruction when ambition goes unchecked by moral constraints. Macbeth is courageous man, who is not inclined to his evils deeds besides Lady Macbeth pursue her goal and further spur Macbeth to kill Duncan and to be strong in the murder aftermath, an ambition that focuses on the quest for power (Potter 185-190) There is linkage between cruelty and masculinity, that is seen when lady Macbeth manipulate Macbeth, wishes herself unsexed and question her husband manhood, further she agrees with Macbeth when he said woman should only give birth to boys finally Macbeth provokes the murderers by questioning their manhood. (Potter190-198) The drama depicts and reflects a tragedy of moral disorders, that reveals disastrous reputations on Macbeths ambition which are not only limited to him. it sees Scotland as a nation full of shakings by inversions of natural orders, just to mention a few is sleep, Macbeth announces that he has " murdered sleep " moreover androgyny as a theme is seen as an aspect of disastrous disorders Witchcraft and evil are seen in the play on numerous occasions :chaos, darkness and conflict represent that three witches in the play and their being conveys treason. Witches were taken worse as compared to evils in the play. In the 1st act, the witch line" Fair is foul and foul is fairest the tone for the entire play, the play is full of occasions where evil is taken to be good and good rendered evil, the line" double, double toil and trouble," is an intention of the witch that they only seek trouble for the mortals surrounding them (Dunning 58). The play was written by William Shakespeare, following the status quo of Scotland, during the period of Scotland war with whales, it clearly

Airport Planning and Expansion Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5250 words

Airport Planning and Expansion - Case Study Example In this study, I intend to focus the analysis on the overall facility by reviewing the constraints within which the airport works and at the end offer recommendations on a probable development scheme so as to augment on the capacity in reference to flight and travellers accommodation. The Changi Airport found in Singapore has grown to rise to be a major aviation hub in Asian region. Its importance is particularly crucial to the southeast part of Asia. Occupying change, the airport rests on a thirteen square kilometres land, and about 17 kilometres to the north-east of the commercial hub. This is a military and public airport that is owned by the government of Singapore. The Changi Airport opened in 1981 is at an elevation of 22ft or 7meters above sea level and serves the Singapore Government and is run by the Changi Airport Group. It is considered as a landmark achievement for the country of Singapore. The company has won a plethora of awards totalling to about 280 in a span of 20 years, that is from 1987- 2007, for providing excellent service that is considered as a benchmark in the Aviation industry. The year 2007 alone saw the company earn 19 awards in the best airport category. The airport has made measures to address the age issue by offering periodic physical upgrades to the already in place terminals, building fresh facilities and taking actions towards the development of high level customer services. The Changi Airport is base to the Singapore Airlines, Tiger Airways, Valuair, Jett8 Airlines Cargo, Singapore Airlines Cargo, Jetstar Asia Airways, and SilkAir, and the main stopping point for Qantas which uses it as the main stop point en route kangaroo - a route that connects Australia and

Trends and Challenges in Human Resource Management Essay Example for Free

Trends and Challenges in Human Resource Management Essay a.Discuss how a complete performance management system differs from the use of annual performance appraisals. The performance management cycle begins with objective setting where the appraisee ought to be oriented about performance expectations for the given performance period. Throughout the period, performance is measured officially through the performance appraisal exercise, where the appraiser is given the chance to give performance feedback through an interview. The performance management system subsumes the performance appraisal process, and is meaningfully linked to rewards based on outcomes or results. Following all these, modifications are implemented to objectives and activities, including the drafting of an individual development plan for closing competency gaps (Clarke, Rogers, Miklos, 1996). The following section describes the different types of performance appraisal systems, which, as emphasized, is only one part of the performance management cycle. The following discusssion is being made to reiterate the idea that performance appraisal is but one part of performance management. Trait-focused appraisal systems. A trait-focused system concentrates on employees’ attributes such as their dependability, assertiveness, and friendliness. Though commonly used, trait focused performance appraisal instruments are not a good idea because they provide poor feedback and thus will not result in employee development and growth (Kingstrom Bass, 1981). For example, in a performance review meeting in which the supervisor tells an employee that she received low ratings on responsibility and friendliness, the employee is likely to become defensive. Furthermore, the employee will want specific examples the supervisor may not have available (Kingstrom Bass, 1981). Behaviour-focused performance appraisal systems. Behaviour-focused instruments focus on what an employee does. Instead of rating them on personal traits, a behaviour-focused instrument would rate him or her on specific behaviours. For example, in the case of a bank teller, some behaviours that may be rated on are as follows: â€Å"Knows customers’ names†, and â€Å"Thanks customer after each transaction.† The obvious advantage to a behaviour-focused system is the amount of specific feedback that can be given to each employee. Further, the focus on behaviour rather than traits does not only reduce employee defensiveness but reduces legal problems (Kingstrom Bass, 1981). From a legal perspective, courts are more interested in the due process afforded by a performance appraisal system that in its technical aspects. After reviewing 295 circuit court decision regarding performance appraisal, Werner Bolino (1997) concluded that performance appraisal systems are most likely to survive a legal challenge if they are based on job analysis, if raters receive training and written instructions, if employees are allowed to review results, and if ratings from multiple raters are consistent. Following the performance appraisal process is performance feedback. In organizational parlance, this is frequently referred to as performance discussions. Perhaps the most important use of performance evaluation data is to provide feedback to the employee and assess his or her strengths and weaknesses so that further training can be implemented. Although this feedback and training should be an ongoing process, the semi-annual evaluation might be the best time to formally discuss employee performance. Furthermore, holding a formal review interview places the organization on better legal ground in the event of a lawsuit (Field Holley, 1982). Normally, in most organizations a supervisor spends a few minutes with employees every six months to tell them about the scores they received during the most recent performance evaluation period. This process is probably the norm because most managers do not like to judge others; because of this dislike, they try to complete the evaluation process as quickly as possible (Field Holley, 1982).   Furthermore, seldom does evaluating employees benefit the supervisor. The best scenario is to hear no complaints, and the worst scenario is a lawsuit. In fact, one study demonstrated that dissatisfaction and a decrease in organizational commitment occurs even when an employee receives an evaluation that is â€Å"satisfactory† but not outstanding (Pearce Porter, 1986). Finally, in the â€Å"tell and sell† approach to performance appraisal interviews, a supervisor â€Å"tells† an employee everything she has done poorly and then â€Å"sells† her on the ways in which she can improve. This method, however, accomplishes little. There are certain techniques that will make the performance appraisal interview more effective, and these are discussed in the following sections. Both the supervisor and the employee must have time to prepare for the review interview. Both should be allowed at least 1 hour to prepare before an interview and at least 1 hour before the interview itself (Pearce Porter, 1986). The interview location should be a neutral place that ensures privacy and allows the supervisor and the employee to face one another without a desk between them as a communication barrier (Rhoads, 1997). Performance appraisal review interviews should be scheduled at least once every 6 months for most employees and more often for new employees. Review interviews are commonly scheduled 6 months after an employee begins working for the organization. It is important to note that while formal performance review interviews occur only twice a year, informal â€Å"progress checks† should be held throughout the year to provide feedback (Rhoads, 1997). While preparing for the interview, the supervisor should review the ratings she has assigned to the employee and the reasons for those ratings. This step is important because the quality of feedback given to employees will affect their satisfaction with the entire performance appraisal process (King, 1984). Meanwhile the employee should rate her own performance, using the same format as the supervisor. The employee also should write down specific reasons and examples that support the ratings she gives herself (King, 1984). At the outset of the interview, the supervisor should communicate the following: 1) the role of the performance appraisal – that making decisions about salary increases and terminations is not its sole purpose; 2) how the performance appraisal was conducted; and 3) how the evaluation process was accomplished. It is advisable that the supervisor also communicate her own feelings about the performance appraisal process (Kelly, 1984). The review process is probably best begun with the employee communicating her own ratings and her justification for those ratings. Research indicates that employees who are actively involved in the interview from the start will be more satisfied with the results. The supervisor then communicates his ratings and his reasons for them (King, 1984). At the conclusion of the interview, goals should be mutually set for future performance and behaviour, and both supervisor and employee should understand how these goals are met (Cederbloom, 1982). In summary, a performance management system encompasses the phases of performance planning, performance monitoring, performance feedback, and performance development. In performance planning, the goal of the superior is to ensure that all objectives, key performance indicators, and even resources for performance delivery are clear and understood. In performance monitoring, the supervisor aims to keep track of whether the employee is delivering in accordance with expectations. This is done through communication and progress tracking. The performance appraisal exercise is only one practice subsumed in this whole system, particularly under performance feedback giving. Finally, in the performance development phase, performance gaps are addressed through coaching, classsroom training, and other individual development initiatives. b.Discuss the advantages of managing turnover in organizations. Turnover has been linked with affective and continuance commitment. Each of the three distinct dimensions to organizational commitment: affective, continuance and normative commitment are defined (Meyer and Allen, 1997). 1)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Affective commitment – means an employee’s personal attachment and identification to the organization.   This results in a strong belief in an acceptance of the organization’s goals and values.   â€Å"Employees with a strong affective commitment continue employment with the organization because they want to do so† (Parà © and Tremblay, 2000, p. 5) 2)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Continuance commitment – is a tendency to engage in consistent lines of activity based on the individual’s recognition of the â€Å"costs† associated with discontinuing the activity.  Ã‚   â€Å"Employees whose primary link to the organization is based on continuance commitment remain because they need to do so.† (Parà © and Tremblay, 2000, p. 5) 3)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Normative commitment – provides that employees exhibit behaviours solely because they believe it is the right and moral thing to do. â€Å"Employees with a high level of normative commitment feel that they ought to remain with the organization.† (Parà © and Tremblay, 2000, p. 5) In their findings, Parà © and Tremblay provide that affective commitment and continuance commitment are negatively related to turnover intentions (Parà © and Tremblay, 2000, p. 6).   In addition to these two distinct types of commitment affecting turnover intention, their studies also points to the factor they call Organizational Citizenship Behaviour or OCB.   OCB is considered as a key element in organizational effectiveness.   OCB is defined as â€Å"an employee’s willingness to go above and beyond the prescribed roles which they have been assigned† (Parà © and Tremblay, 2000, p. 6, quoting from Organ 1990). Based on Parà © and Tremblay’s findings, the stronger the citizenship behaviour, the more likely they are to stay in their company.   In effect, those with high turnover intentions are not as committed as those who intend to stay long with the company. The Job Characteristics Model of Hackman and Oldham (1980) show that the job characteristics of skill variety, task identity, task significance, task autonomy, and feedback   are likewise linked to management of turnover. The five core job characteristics are in continuous interaction with individual differences that evoke three critical psychological states in an employee.   These three states are: 1) when the job is structured by skill variety, task identity and task significance this could lead employees to experience meaningfulness in their work. 2) The second state, task autonomy, which leads to feelings of responsibility for the outcomes of work. 3) The third and last state is feedback, which leads employees towards knowledge of the results of their work (Douthit 2000; Huber 2000). These three critical psychological states lead to a set of affective and personal outcomes:   high internal work motivation, high growth satisfaction, high general satisfaction, high work effectiveness, and low rate of absenteeism (Mohamed 2004; Donovan and Radosevich, 1998). These affective and personal outcomes are the results of en employee’s job characteristics.   They are defined as follows: High internal work motivation – this is the degree to which an employee is willing to work and to consider the organizational objectives as part of his or her own goals (Mohamed, 2004). High growth satisfaction – this is the achievement of the employee in overcoming challenges, succeeding and growing (Steers Black, 1994) High general satisfaction – this the feeling derived from the overall satisfaction with the work itself. â€Å"This type of satisfaction is reflected mainly in decreased rates of absenteeism among employees† (Steers Black, 1994). High work effectiveness – this refers to both the quality and quantity aspects of work performance (Hackman Oldham, 1980). Low rate of absenteeism. In other words, in managing retention and in effect managing these characteristics of the job, the organization shall have more motivated, more satisfied, more effective employees (Hackman Oldham, 1980). c.Examine contemporary safety and health management issues in the workplace. Workplace Safety: Information (2007) defines workplace safety as an environment encompassing all the factors that may have impact on the welfare of the employees in terms of safety working conditions and the health of laborers. Aspects that are given priorities are the hazards found in the surroundings, workplace areas, conditions and workplace process flowcharts. Other issues among employees regarding grooming, drug and alcohol abuse, absenteeism, horseplay and tardiness, violence and work output submissions are also covered. If there is one organization monitoring the activities of the safety in the workplace, it is the Occupational Safety and Health Organization (OSHA). OSHA is focusing on three goals as its cornerstones in regulating safety practices in organizations. First, it improves the safety and health of the workers, from the top management to the bottom, to make sure that there would be less accidents, hazards, injuries, illnesses, and fatalities that will occur in the companies. Second, it operates by making changes in the workplace culture to heighten the awareness of both the employer and its workers in committing its involvement in the health and safety of the company populace. Third, it assures the security of public confidence in maintaining the delivery of OSHA’s programs and services. Looking at the federal guidelines, OSHA’s proposed programs are less tough and are user-friendly for different companies (Guastello, 1993). However, a common query among organizations is that the benefits of behaviour modification programs, such as incentives may not have lasting effects or may diminish over time (Guastello, 1993). Many agree that safety programs using incentives can be found in an existing and well-rounded comprehensive safety program. Based on OSHA, there are four elements of an effective safety and health program such as management commitment and employee involvement; worksite analysis; hazard prevention and control; and safety and health training. In all these elements of incentive programs employees’ participation can be recognised.   First, a number of employees can be heads of safety committees, worksite analyses, accident investigations and safety suggestions. Second, by assigning among them a supervisor hazard prevention and control may be strengthened since peers will follow anti-hazard rules in their workspace.Third, employees can be seen in the active attendance and participation in safety meetings through quizzes, interactive role-playing and roundtable discussions. Giving the employees the chance to participate and be recognised in effective safety programs, they would feel that it is a privilege to be part of the core group of safety culture in the family. At the same time the myriad of manuals and guidelines provided discussing safety workplace incentives will still be very useful in keeping the employees aware of the controls and measures that the company is undertaking for the welfare of the workers in general (Walker, 2007). Reduction in the number of accidents has been shown to be possible with the strict implementation of workplace behaviour modifications (Lund Aaro, 2004). Using safety incentives is just one of the ends to the ways of improving population’s safety behaviours. By introducing a safety culture scheme in the organization, individual and group motivational factors for safe behaviour, risk justification, and optimism in workplace are deemed to show great improvement (Williamson et al., 1997). In one way or another, these factors are crucial and are influenced by the reward system such as incentives by recognising the individuals who are putting their best efforts to their work and doing their jobs in a safe manner. Safety incentive programs generally have two categories: (1) injury/illness-based incentive programs and (2) behaviour-based incentive programs (Hinze, 2002). Injury/illness-based incentive programs are based on the number of times that an illness or injury is incurred and such occurrence will be the criterion in rewarding workers and crew members. The programs go along with the assumption that: (1) facilities and equipment used are in good condition and do not cause any accidents; (2) employees are given proper training and work knowledge in administering the use of office equipment; and (3) accidents are usually the results of worker’s negligence or compromise on safety (Smith, 1997). Meanwhile, behaviour-based incentive programs observe the workers in such a way that their attitude towards work is assessed. Previous studies have identified the means of measuring worker’s behaviour as a means for recognising safety performance (Duff et al., 1993). Examples of activities of behaviour that can be rewarded are active participation in safety meetings and training sessions, ability to give sound suggestions about the improvement of safety in the jobsite, proper use of personal equipment and other behaviour avoiding accidents (Geller, 1996). d.Also, include a discussion of future trends and challenges in HR management. Since the theories, approaches and practices for Human Resource Management can be traced back to Frederick Taylor’s Scientific Management, trends can be expected. Some of the recent trends that are being observed are moonlighting, human resource outsourcing, and two of Charles Handy’s organizational models – Shamrock and Federal, respectively. Moonlighting is when an employee holds dual or multiple jobs at the same time. Many employees become moonlighters if they salary they get from their primary job is not enough. Moonlighting has its advantages too. It can reduce the rate of turnovers in industries where work is routinary and it can also be a means for a company to retain their employees. The downside of moonlighting is that the company risks losing confidential information to competitors. It can also lead to absenteeism due to exhaustion and burnout from both jobs (Tett Meyer, 1993). Outsourcing is one of the latest additions to the trends in human resource management. An organization seeks out sub contractual employees for either product design or manufacturing from a third-party organization at a lower cost. Outsourcing is good for small to medium-sized organizations that are growth oriented since it can provide the owners free time to focus on developing strategies to gain competitive edge (Ulrich, 1997). It can also help transform the business by increasing the flexibility of the organization to meet the changing conditions, demands for products and services and technologies. It also makes the experts available for you. By outsourcing experts, you are able to improve your risk management and control over the business. Your credibility can also be improved since you do have the best in the field working for you. You also gain a network by associating your organization to the provider. Charles Handy’s organizational models are being practiced by enterprises depending on the nature of their industry (Armstrong, 2003). With these models, organizations can be flexible with their organizational structure in order to ensure their competitive edge. The Shamrock model or clover model consist of three main levels that represent a different type of organizational objectives: the core, the contractual fringe, and the flexible workforce. The core is basically the thinking part of the model. They are the ones that possess the most knowledge about the field and are the most paid. The contractual fringe is the part of the model that provides materials and service inputs to the core. The flexible workforce is responsible for the workload itself. Though these three workforces or parts need to be managed separately and differently, the organization has three different parts with varying responsibilities and expectations and yet work to achieve the same goal. In the Federal model, power is distributed and it is about building high commitment, professional organizations. The federal is a bit complex. It is decentralized but at the same time centralized when the situations calls for it. It is a system of small core organizations with much focused core competencies sustained by many resources available to them. It is also believed that in order to improve productivity a strong social agreement between the organization and the union and a good social welfare system is a must. Although more and more trends come to pass to keep up with the changes, more and more conflicting issues arise too. Selecting who to hire is becoming a more complex task. Training and developments are hard to keep up with since more technological improvements are made and competition is getting stiffer by the minute. Maintaining current employees is proving to be one of the top human resource managers’ problems, since more organizations try to outdo each other in regards to the compensation and benefits they offer to their would-be and existing employees. Diversity within the workplace is posing to be a relevant issue for the human resource department (Chen, 2007). Motivation and loyalty of employees is a perennial contemporary issue for the human resource manager. Mergers, acquisition, turnovers, and consolidation happen more often, and throughout all these, strategic human resource management is necessary to ensure continued delivery of objectives amidst turbulent change. References Armstrong, M. (2003). A handbook of human resource management practice. London: Kogan Page. Cederbloom, D. (1982). The performance appraisal interview: A review, implications, and suggestions. Academy of Management Review, 7, 219-227. Chen, A. (2007). The challenges of human resource management. Retrieved April 9, 2008 from http://ezinearticles.com. Clarke, D., Rogers, V. Miklos, S. (1996). Upward appraisal: Does it make a difference? Paper presented at the 11th annual meeting of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology, St. Louis, MO. Donovan, J.J. Radosevich, D. (1998). The moderating role of goal commitment on the goal difficulty–performance relationship: a meta-analytic review and critical re-analysis. Journal of applied psychology, 83, 308–15. Douthit, M.W., (2000). Job satisfaction returns to human and social capital. Journal of behavioral and applied management, 2000, 1(1), 67. Duff, A. R., Robertson, I. T., Cooper, M. D., Phillips, R. and United Kingdom Health Safety Executive (HSE). (1993). Improving safety on construction sites by changing personnel behaviour (HSE Contract Research Report No.51/ 1993). Field, H. S., Holley, W. H. (1982). The relationship of performance appraisal system characteristics to verdicts in selected employment discrimination cases. Academy of Management Journal, 25, 392-406. Geller, E. (1996). The psychology of safety: How to improve behaviours and attitudes on the job, Pennsylvania: Chilton Book Company. Guastello, S. (1993). Do we really know how well our occupational accident programs work? Safety Science, 16, 445-463. Hackman, J.R. Oldham, G.R. (1980). Work design. Reading, Massachusetts, Addison–Wesley, 1980, 114–21. Hinze, J. (2002). Safety incentives: Do they reduce injuries? Practice Periodical on Structural Design and Construction, 7(2), 81-84. Kelly, C. M. (1984). Reasonable performance appraisals. Training: Development, 38(1), 79-82. King, P. (1984). Performance planning and appraisal. New York: McGraw-Hill. Kingstrom, P.O., Bass, A. R. (1981). A critical analysis of studies comparing behaviourally anchored rating scales (BARS) and other rating formats. Personnel Psychology, 34, 263-289. Lund, J. Aaro, L. (2004). Accident prevention: Presentation of a model placing emphasis on human, structural, and cultural factors. Safety Science, 42, 271–324. Meyer, J.P.    Allen, N.J. (1997). Commitment in the workplace. Sage Publications. Mohamed, A.H. (2004, May) Using the job characteristics model to compare patient care assignment methods of nurses, 10(3), 389-405. Parà ©, G. and Tremblay, M. (2000).   The measurement and antecedents of turnover intentions among IT professionals.   Scientific Series.   Ciprano.   September 2000. Pearce, J. L., Porter, L. W. (1986). Employee responses to formal performance appraisal feedback. Journal of Applied Psychology, 71, 211-218. Rhoads, C. (1997). A year-round schedule said to take sting out of performance reviews. American Banker, 162(28), 6. Smith, T.A. (1997) What’s wrong with safety incentives? Professional Safety, May, 44. Steers, R.M. Black, J.C. (1994). Organizational behavior, 5th ed. New York, Harper Collins. Tett, R. P., Meyer, J.P. (1993). Job satisfaction, organizational commitment, turnover: Path analyses based on meta analytic findings. Personel Psychology, 46, 259-293. Ulrich, D. (1997). Human resource champions: The next agenda for adding value and delivering results. Boston, Mass.:Harvard Business School Press. Walker, J. (2007). ABCs of safety incentives: Positive consequences to behaviour. Facility Safety Management. Retrieved April 10, 2008 from http:// www.fsmmag.com/Articles/2005/12/ABCs%20of%20Safety%20Incentives%20Positive%20Consequences%20to%20Behaviour.htm. Werner, J. M., Bolino, M. C. (1997). Explaining U.S. Courts of Appeals decisions involving performance appraisal: Accuracy, fairness, and validation. Personnel Psychology, 50(1), 1-24. Williamson, A., Feyer, A., Cairns, D. Biancotti, D. (1997). The development of a measure of safety climate: The role of safety perceptions and attitudes. Safety Science, 25(1-3), 15-27. Workplace Safety: Information. (2007). Workplace safety: Information and much more from Answers.com. Retrieved April 11, 2008 from http://www.answers.com/topic/workplace-safety?cat=biz-fin.

What Is Religion Essay Example for Free

What Is Religion Essay Religion is a hard concept to comprehend. It is showing us a different side to look at our life. Instead of having hard facts that can be physically proven, religion shows us to take a leap of faith and believe the impossible. In The Nature of Existence Charles Messer says: â€Å"Religion is simply a system of actions meant to give you access to God and Heaven. (eternal Life)†. In my faith I am taught that we are created by a higher being; God. That He is omnipotent and he loves all human beings, even if we do not believe in him and follow him. That he sent his only son, to die on the cross for all of us. Other religions may say the opposite: that there is more than one god and that Jesus was not the messiah. Edward and people with similar beliefs say, â€Å"Religions are man-made world-views that help those in charge to control the masses. They are completely and utterly useless.†, but the only problem with this statement is that man also created science. Man has a lust for power and because religious leaders have so much power over so many people, others assume that religion is being used to gain power . (Your Thesis is not clearly visible, you are thinking with emotion instead of stating clear facts with passion) In today’s world there are too many religions to count. â€Å"There are as many ‘religions’ as there are believers since each person has a different understanding of what their religion is.†: as Nancy M has put it. Nancy brings up a great point by saying this. People might think they have the same views on religion but no one really does. That is one of the points of this documentary: to show different views on what they believe in. Free will gives us the power to choose our own paths, whether it is in speech or in religion. The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy says, â€Å"Free will is to say that the agent has the capacity to choose his or her course of action.† We have the choice to believe in God or not to believe in God. That is the beauty of free will, that our decisions are our own. The biggest confrontation in religion is: which religion is right? People who have a strong faith in what they believe in, and will say that their religion is the true religion. I am one who believes that my religion is the correct. But like Nancy says; I have created my own religion. I discovered my own belief system, by challenging other religions and figuring out what others have to say about their own beliefs. Brother Jed Smock is one who challenges our faith, by going to college campuses and spreading his beliefs onto others. What he talks about at the colleges, causes the students to question and challenge Brother Jed’s beliefs. While asking these questions, the students have to also look at their own beliefs and may question them as well. To truly grasp our religion we need to ask questions and find answers. One of the best ways to do this is to challenge others and to break down the answer they have provided. It strengthens us and takes our beliefs to a whole new level. Believing in something is a way of life. Everyone has some kind of belief system. We can believe that there is a God or believe that there is no God. This is the same as an opinion: we all have opinions on everything no matter what. If no one had an opinion then there would not be discussions or arguments.(Without this progress could not be made) Whether or not we belive in a religion or science or even both, there is a reason why we do. It is a way to explain things we cannot explain (it is a way to ease our minds from fear of the unknown and to explain away the unexplainable). For example, where we go after we die or if something miraculous (Or tragic) happens in our life. We cannot explain these events, and therefore we look for answers (in a higher power, whether that power is religion or science) because as humans we do not like Uncertainty. (many people of faith turn to determinism, when something unexplainable happens, whether that something, is good or bad. According to Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, â€Å"Causal determinism is, roughly speaking, the idea that every event is necessitated by antecedent events and conditions together with the laws of nature.† Simply saying that everything happens for a reason. It is a way to avoid the confrontation, of questioning a belief system by putting life solely in the hands of a higher power. It is mainly used as a way to explain away tragedy and an attempt to console us in a time of grief. When something unexplainable happens, people (do not ) like to question why, they would rather move on with their life and accept what they believe to be inevitable. In my opinion I believe that I will make my own future and it is always changing and nothing is set until it happens. Nothing can determine our future except ourselves.

Green Logistics Management

Green Logistics Management Green logistics can be defined as coordinating the general logistical activities comprising freight transport, storage, inventory management, materials handling and all the relevant activities required to move products through the supply chain in a way that meets customer requirements at minimum cost with an environmental concern. The main objective is examining different possible ways to reduce the external costs of logistics associated mainly with climate change, air pollution, noise etc and achieving a more sustainable balance between economic, environmental and social objectives. 2. Literature review on green logistics Researchers have been working on various mathematical techniques, heuristics, combinatorial optimization and practical methods for developing new and more sustainable methodologies to reverse logistics for the collection, recycling and disposal of waste products. With the help of some illustrative examples, the project is focussed on developing basic understanding of how new techniques and the operating practices could contribute to effective domestic waste management. Peirce and Davidson (1982) used a linear optimization technique to formulate the problem of transportation routing among transfer stations, disposal facilities, and long term storage impoundments but limiting the model to determination of cost effective waste transportation routes. Jennings and scholars (1984) formulated the regional hazardous waste management system as simply a vehicle routing problem aiming for either reducing cost or risk. Zografos and Samara (1990) dealt with the problem of a single type of waste to achieve the objectives of minimizing transportation risk, travelling time and disposal costs but, the demerits are that each centre is affected only by its closest facility and all the different source points can send its hazardous waste to only one treatment facility. Hu et al (2002) made use of a linear programming model to investigate the cost reduction of decision making support system used for managing the multi source waste reverse flows again limiting the objective only to cost factor. Alumur and kara (2007) used Multi-objective mixed integer programming model with dual objectives of minimizing cost and risk factor in hazardous waste logistics. They focussed mainly on the factors that decide the appropriate location for treatment facilities, dumping sites and the relevant technology needed to route various sources of waste subject to constraints. The considered model was implemented in Central Anatolian region of Turkey. Their research shed light on using multi-period concept to the existing model to schedule the processing of different types of waste. 2.1 Domestic waste management Though the above research work was quite old, it contributed much towards the waste management. They made a foundation for further research where we can combine both the objectives of cost reduction as well as environmental benefits. Solid waste is a critical environmental problem in both developed and developing countries. The growing environmental concern from citizens, governments and various industrialists demand new methods and technologies to address the problems involved in waste management that pose a threat to the environment. Domestic waste logistics is one of the key areas that could have a huge impact on the environment with the growing population if not given enough attention. The very common problem in developing countries regarding solid waste management is lack of sufficient technical and financial resources. The available resources can think of only collection and logistics costs, leaving no resources for safe final disposal (Collivignarelli et al., 2004). The green logistics objective can be served in several ways addressing sustainable domestic waste disposal. Some of them are mentioned below: What collection system should be applied for easy disposal of different types of wastes such as recyclable and non-recyclable? Where to locate the garbage accumulation areas and collection points? How big the fleet of vehicles should be and how feasible it is to have multiple compartment vehicles to collect different sources of waste separately at one time? How many containers and of what type should be assigned to each area? Which are the most appropriate collection routes depending on the demand, traffic and other practical constraints? What frequency of collection should be applied to each area? There has been a significant amount of research work going on addressing one or more of the above problems with the green logistics objective. For an extensive discussion on green logistics objectives one can refer to Sheu 2007, which is the recent review published in this area where they used coordinated reverse logistics management system which was formulated as multi-objective linear programming model for treating hazardous waste. The time varying waste collection amount associated with each given waste type was regulated by reverse logistics system and this was further coordinated with other activities such as storage, processing, distribution and final treatment. By using these two factors, the author could successfully design a model that searches for system-wide optimization condition considering both the reverse logistics operational costs and also the environmental impact through risk constraints. The model saved 58% operational costs with the inclusion of green logistics ob jective comparatively with the earlier versions of other authors where only a cost factor was considered. Though the above research work proves to be beneficial from cost as well as environmental perspective, is it really the same in every case? As the objective starts shifting the full attention towards green, economical and more of an environmental friendly objectives, the long term results sometimes have to be compromised although it proves more costly. There are various functional elements involved in the waste management such as waste generation, collection, separation, handling, storage and treatment, logistics and final dumping. In general, the same problem requires different objectives depending upon whose requirement it is. From business perspective, the best solution would be the one with the least cost, while for the government the best solution would be the one with the least risk (referring to human life). Therefore, for any proposed mathematical model, there should always be a compromise solution considering these different objectives. Conceptual approach by Chang and Davila (2007) made a great success in diverting recyclables, green waste from the municipal solid waste streams to energy, composting and recycling facilities. They analysed the existing solid waste management strategies for better improvement using minimax regret optimization techniques with multiple criteria. Researchers also shifting their attention towards using Life cycle analysis for evaluating different strategies involved in waste management. Ahluwalia and Nema (2007) presented a life cycle based multi-objective model to support decision makers in integrated waste management. They evaluated the management budget and life cycle of different types of computer waste for different objectives of cost, business risk and environmental impact. The main idea of Life cycle approach is recycling computer waste which otherwise leads to the loss of potential resources and can have a huge impact on the environment as well. Sbihi and Eglese (2007) mentioned the importance of multi-time step model in Combinatorial optimization and Green Logistics. They highlighted the variation in waste generation at any source node with time and about uncertainty with the data related to waste generation. In response to that, Ahluwalia and Nema (2007) identified the factors responsible for the computer waste and their contribution to the environmental pollution. Multiple objectives of economy, health and environmental risk involved with various computer waste management activities were assessed with the help of an integer linear goal programming based multi-time step optimal material flow analysis model. Several treatment and disposal facilities were selected and assigned optimum quantities of waste to them along chosen transportation routes, depending on different priorities to cost and risk. The uncertainty factor related to waste generation quantities also taken into consideration using Monte Carlo simulation. There are also some studies in the literature that are concerned only with the vehicle routing problem but the research objective seem to be very interesting from waste management perspective. These studies attempt to find the best possible routes for a given network with the objective of minimizing transportation cost subject to various constraints. Part of the model developed in our project uses a multi-compartment vehicle in which different sources of domestic wastes can be collected separately at the collection point itself using several vehicles EL Fallahi et al 2008. Using this concept of multi-compartment vehicle for waste collection might reduce the burden of segregating them later at the dumping site. This also might reduce the cost involved in diverting the recyclable and non-recyclable wastes to their corresponding processing centres, making the waste collection process not only economically profitable but can also make the recycling process more environmental friendly. Some times depending on the type of objective that is involved, constraints play a critical role. For instance, while dealing with the logistics of hazardous wastes, public safety is a serious constraint without which the model will be invalid. Highly toxic wastes like by-products of nuclear power plants needed to be transported to a safer environment. YW Chen et al (2008) planned safest transportation of nuclear waste by integrating the multi-objective (minimizing the travel time, transportation risk and the exposed population) shortest route problem having actual road network attributes of GIS (geographic information systems) with environmental systems research institute (ESRI). 8. The importance of environmental protection resulted in a set of new waste management goals in the reverse logistics system planning. Pati RK et al (2008) formulated a mixed integer goal programming to study the inter-relationship between the multiple objectives of a recycled paper distribution network. The objectives considered are reduction in reverse logistics cost; product quality improvement through increased segregation at the source; and environmental benefits through increased waste paper recovery. The model has been illustrated through a problem at paper recycling in India. It says that the model can also be extended to other areas of reverse logistics systems involving conservation of natural resources such as recycling of plastic wastes. This model can also be used for determining the facility location, route and flow of various types of recyclable waste paper in the multi-item, multi-echelon and multi-facility decision making framework. Future research Including non-linearities and stochasticity of parameters in the above linear model. Extending the model to other reverse logistics problem areas involving the environmental issues and conservation of natural resources such as recycling of plastic wastes. - Third report 1. Lund and Clark II (2008) highlighted various transportation technologies and the link to stationary power generation that may help to reduce the impact of both energy and transportation sectors on global warming and climate change. He made a point based on the past literature that no single technology appears to be able to solve the carbon footprint problem on its own. This special issue focussed on the methodologies and practices applied to the analysis of coherent sustainable energy and transportation systems in order to reverse the climate change. He focussed on the information available from literature review, mainly on the use of electric and hybrid technologies in the transportation sector with renewable energy source. But it appears to me that even with the mass introduction of these technologies, the impact on environment may again increase with more electricity generation (exception for wind and hydro electric power). He mentioned in his paper that Professor Woodrow Clark discussed how green energy from renewable energy sources can play a significant role in protecting the environment while providing power for building and transportation. This issue is based on the presentation from special session on Sustainable Energy and Transportation Systems which was part of 4th Dubrovnik Conference on Sustainable Development of Energy, Water and Environment Systems, June 4-8, 2007, Dubrovnik, Croatia. 2. Siu 2007 reviewed a number of innovative light weight transit systems with the objective to serve as a reference to decision makers who are involved in the planning and design of sustainable transportation systems. Siu argues that building more roads to relieve traffic congestion achieves nothing more than encouraging more vehicles to use them, resulting in more carbon emissions. This paper again focussed on the use of latest technologies namely the battery-electric, hybrid-electric and fuel cells buses. It says that the electric drives are appealing the transit operators because of reduced or zero vehicle emissions and increased efficiency. With efficient use of these innovative transit technologies in the distribution and logistics sector would certainly help to achieve the goal of green logistics. 3. Wadhwa et al 2008 proposed a multi-criterion decision making (MCDM) model based on fuzzy set theory. It is a flexible decision modelling of reverse logistics system: A value adding MCDM approach for alternative selection which can be helpful in designing effective and efficient flexible return policy depending on various criteria. This fuzzy decision methodology provides an alternative framework to deal with the complexities involved in reverse logistics and giving the best decision strategy for product recovery system. It requires quantitative and qualitative evaluation based on criteria such as cost, time, legislative factors, environmental impact, quality and quality. This paper combines fuzzy based flexible MCDM and reverse logistics for alternate selections. Future research The model serves to enhance the progressive introduction of applying artificial intelligence future research in terms of developing a group decision support system. 4. EL Fallahi et al 2008. A memetic algorithm and a tabu search for the multi-compartment vehicle routing problem. Computers and Operations research 2008; 35: 1725-1741 A general vehicle routing problem where a customer can order different products which will be delivered using identical vehicles using several compartments, each compartment being dedicated to one product is considered in this paper. The author used two algorithms known as memetic algorithm with a post optimization phase based on path relinking and a tabu search to solve the above problem. Path re-linking is the method to combine intensification and diversification in tabu search. It mainly concentrates on the exploration of links connecting pairs of good solutions in search space hoping for better solutions along these paths. This technique is generally used after the tabu search metaheuristic. Tabu search is a heuristic method designed to guide other methods, including local search algorithms to escape local optima. Its distinctive feature is the use of a memory to search the best possible solutions subject to certain constraints like forbidden moves (tabu). The above algorithms are compared for both multi-compartment and single compartment and found that splitting the compartments improved the results on average. References: Ahluwalia PK, Nema AK. A Goal Programming Based Multi-Time Step Optimal Material Flow Analysis Model for Integrated Computer Waste Management. Journal of Environmental Informatics 2007; 10(2): 82-98 Ahluwalia PK, Nema AK. A life cycle based multi-objective optimization model for the management of computer waste. Resources, Conservation and Recycling 2007; 51: 792-826 Alumur S, Kara BY. A new model for the hazardous waste location-routing problem. Computers and operations research 2007; 34: 1406-1423 Bautista J, Fernandez E, Pereira J. Solving an urban waste collection problem using ant heuristics. Computers and operations research 2008; 35: 3020-3033 Bodin L, Kursh SA. A computer-assisted system for the routing and scheduling of street sweepers. Operations Research 1978; 26(4):525-37. Bodin L, Kursh SA. A detailed description of a computer system for the routing and scheduling of street sweepers. Computers and Operations Research 1979; 6:181-98. Chang NB, Davila E. Minimax regret optimization analysis for a regional solid waste management system. Waste management 2007; 27: 820-832 Chen YW, Wang CH, Lin SJ. A multi-objective geographic information system for route selection of nuclear waste transport. Omega 2008; 36:363-372. Cheung BKS, Choy KL, Li C-L, Shi W, Tang J. Dynamic routing model and solution methods for fleet management with mobile technologies. International journal of production economics 2008; 113: 694-705. Corberà ¡n A, Martà ­ R, Martà ­nez E, Soler D. The rural postman problem on mixed graphs with turn penalties. Computers and Operations Research 2002; 29:887-903. Hu T-L, Sheu J-B, Huang K-H. A reverse logistics cost minimization model for the treatment of hazardous wastes. Transportation Research Part E 2002; 38(6):457-73. J.B Sheu. Coordinated reverse logistics system for regional management of multi-source hazardous wastes. Computers and operations research 2007; 34: 1442-1462 Jennings AA, Scholar RL .Hazardous waste disposal network analysis. Journal of Environmental Engineering (ASCE) 1984; 110(2):325-42. Pati RK, Vrat P, Kumar P. A goal programming model for paper recycling system. Omega 2008; 36: 405-417. Peirce JJ, Davidson GM. Linear programming in hazardous waste management. Journal of Environmental Engineering1982; 108(5):1014-26. Roy S, Rousseau JM. The Capacitated Canadian Postman Problem. INFOR 1989; 27(1):58-73. Tsoulfas GT, Pappis CP, Minner S. An environmental analysis of the reverse supply chain of SLI batteries. Resources Conservation and Recycling 2002; 36:135-54. Zografos KG, Samara SSA. Combined location-routing model for hazardous waste transportation and disposal. Transportation Research Record 1990; 1245:52-9. Lund H, Clark II WW. Sustainable energy and transportation systems introduction and overview. Utilities policy 2008; 16: 59-62 Siu LK. Innovative Lightweight Transit Technologies for Sustainable Transportation. Journanl of Transportation Systems Engineering and Information Technology 2007; 7(2): 63-71. Wadhwa S, et al. Flexible decision modeling of reverse logistics system: A value adding MCDM approach for alternative selection. Robotics and Computer-Integer Manufacturing (2008), doi:10.1016/j.rcim.2008.01.006 El Fallahi A, Prins C, Calvo R W. A memetic algorithm and a tabu search for the multi-compartment vehicle routing problem. Computers and Operations research 2008; 35:1725-1741.

Response to Putins Way :: essays research papers

Putin’s Way After the fall of communism and the advent of democracy, the Soviet constitution was amended to delete the provision that the CPSU was the "leading and guiding" force in the political system. As a result, many political groups began to operate more openly in Russia. The constitution of 1993 guarantees further Russians' right to a multiparty system. Despite that â€Å"the Duma that results [today] is a democrat’s nightmare: three parties whose only ideologies are an almost slavish loyalty to President Vladimir Putin and varying degrees of nationalism, plus one made of the dregs of seven decades of totalitarian rule.† Putin’s Way examines why the â€Å"middle class did not vote as they were meant to.† In 1991, the majority of Russian people had the opportunity to cast a ballot that would truly be counted. The ballot allowed for the people to choose between Yabloko, the social-democrats, versus the Union of Right Forces (SPS), â€Å"the self-appointed guardians of Russian liberalism.† But, in the 2003 lower house elections, neither Yabloko nor the SPS received the 5% needed to get their party-list candidates into the Duma, the lower house. However, the â€Å"Liberal-Democrats,† an ultra-nationalist party led by Vladimir Zhirinovsky doubled their vote over the last election in 1999. In second place, Motherland, â€Å"a Kremlin-backed party,† led by ex-communist Sergei Glazyev, and modern nationalist, Dmitry Rogozin, won 12.7% of the vote. United Russia, the People’s Party, came in first place, winning 19 single-mandate seats and occupying 222 seats, nearly half of the seats in the Duma. The result of the 2003 elections: â€Å"three parties whose only ide ologies are an almost slavish loyalty to President Vladimir Putin and varying degrees of nationalism.† Having failed to amass votes, for the next few years, the two liberal parties will have nearly negligible influence. Putin’s Way provides a number of reasons for the unfortunate results of the election and for why the people voted the way they did. First, national/state run TV stations ignored the law that requires equal media coverage for all candidates. In secluded areas, local bosses forced government workers forced to campaign, threatening their jobs. Secondly, Yabloko and the SPS failed to raise topics such as healthy care and education, â€Å"unpopular with most Russians, but something that the newly affluent might agree with.† Thirdly, when democracy hit town, a vast separation was created between the haves and the have-nots. But, â€Å"the fact that economic growth under Mr.

Essay examples --

In the US alone a blood donation is needed every 2 seconds; that is 41,000 blood donations that are necessary every day (Blood Facts). The first successful blood transfusion was done in 1667 on a boy who was administered sheep blood, the boy survived. This alone paved the way for modern blood transfusions. The first human-to- human donations were done in the early 1800’s and were unsuccessful due to the lack of knowledge with blood types. Then in the 1900s blood types were discovered and from there blood banks were developed and research was done to progress the amazing transfusion system we have today (History). With all the advancement we have made throughout this vast time frame the truth of the matter is that even with the evolution only 10 percent of the 36 percent of people who have the ability to give blood actually do (Blood Facts). There are many unreasonable explanations as to why people don’t give blood some include their own unneeded fears, the excuse that giving is superfluous, the dangers and risks with transfusion, and the thought that it is bad for your overall health. These false accounts are preventing people from saving lives. Everyone who is healthy and able should save lives and donate their blood to better help someone who is in desperate need of it. Many people believe that donating blood is bad because of reasons such as wrongful doing by the nurses and professionals. A large number of individuals fear that too much blood might be taken, the person taking the blood might injure you and miss a vein and in general they are afraid of what might happen to them during the donating process. Phlebotomist nurses pass many tests, understand and perform their job to the best of their ability. It is import... ...you are healthy and able to donate blood you should do your part and save lives for people who are in need of transfusions. Giving blood has many positive aspects. Transfusions are safe and can actually help your overall heath, including your physiological well-being. Professionals follow standards and requirements to make the process very simple and easy. Also, blood is always in need so none of it goes to waste; whatever you donate will be put to good use. Many people have doubts, but if you look at the facts there are nothing but good things that come from donating blood. Do the right thing. Donate. Save Lives. By giving, you are not only helping save lives, but you will leave having a positive outlook on what you did to help with others health and in addition, your own. This is the opportunity for you to change someone’s life. Do your part and Donate.

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Patriotism   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Patriotism. The very sound of the word brings to my heart feelings of loyalty and pride. I feel loyalty for my country and my country's ideals, and I feel pride for those before me who fought and sacrificed much for the freedom of my beloved country. I love and honor my country. I feel a sense of duty to this country that has been my home since my birth. As I turn the pages of our country's history, I am inspired by those who have spoken out and fought against those who have threatened our country's security and ideals. Our forefathers had dreams of a nation with liberty and justice for all. They gave all they had, every single ounce of strength, to make that dream a reality. They waged war against one of the most powerful empires of the time so that they could remain true to their ideals. Martin Luther King Jr. was willing to lead a movement against segregation in our nation. He had the courage to tell our nation that its policy of segregation was wrong. To me, that is true patriotism: not only being willing to fight for our country but willing to try to change it so that our ideals are preserved. I implore upon you, the youth of America, to fight to keep the flame of patriotism alive. We are the authors of our country's future. We must dig dip inside ourselves and find the courage and determination to dream of a greater and nobler country. We, as the future of this country, must dedicate ourselves to this cause and stay true to the ideals of those before us. Patriotism is defined as a love for or a devotion to one’s country. With the events that happened in America on

The Joy of Reading and Writing: Superman and Me

â€Å"The Joy of Reading and Writing: Superman and Me† Reading â€Å"The Joy of reading and Writing: Superman and Me,† gave me a different perspective of reading and writing. Sherman Alexie, who grew up on the Spokane Reservation in Wellpinit, Washington, explains his life as an Indian boy, and how reading and writing helped his life to succeed. Alexie purposes is to discuss how he first learned how to read and write, his intelligence as a young Indian boy, and Alexie as an adult teaching creative writing to Indians children. Alexie learned not only how to read but to love reading. He used his love of reading to propel himself through the school system, removing himself from the stereotypical to be dumb, quiet, poor, and to fail in life. Alexie begins his essay with a self confidence tone. Alexie, while growing in the Indian Reservation, at the age of three he learned how to read by using Superman comics. Alexie taught himself how to read the comic books by looking at the pictures and dialogue and pretending to say aloud what he thinks the story might be saying. I look at the narrative above the picture. I cannot read the words, but I assume it tells me that Superman is breaking down the door. Aloud, I pretend to read the words and say, Superman is breaking down the door† (14). Alexie learned quickly how to read while many other Indian kids struggled to read basic words and vocabulary. â€Å"He reads Grapes of Wrath in kindergarten when other children are struggling through Dick and Jane† (15 ). After Alexie established his self confidence tone, Alexie shows his determination tone. Indian children were stereotypically supposed to fail in the classroom and most did. Indian boys who fail were accepted; those who did not were not accepted. Alexie was smart and he refused to fail, he never got intimidated, he always participated with the non-Indian peers in class. â€Å"I fought with my classmates on a daily basis. They wanted me to stay quiet when non-Indian teacher asked for answers, for volunteers, for help† (15). Alexie loved to read, he read everything he possible could, even if they were not books. Alexie wanted to be educated and refused to fail. â€Å"I refused to fail. I was smart. I was arrogant. I was lucky† (15). Alexie’s tone at end of the essay, he was proud and surprised of himself because he became a writer. Becoming a writer, Alexie started to write books for children and he started to teach creative writing at Indian Schools. Alexie is proud because he has the opportunity to help other Indian kids to succeed in life. â€Å"These days, I write novels, short stories, and poems. I visit schools and teach creative writing to Indian kids† (15). Most of the children in the Reservation read his books and write their own poems, and that makes Alexie proud of himself. But there are some of the children that who have already given up hope on themselves and sit in the back of the classroom and do not care anything for reading and writing. â€Å"Then there are the sullen and already defeated Indian kids who sit in the back rows and ignore me with theatrical precision† (16). Alexie is trying to break down their locked doors, and he is trying to save their lives by teaching them to read and write. Alexie refused to fail, instead he read different kind of books and he became strong reader and a smart Indian. Alexie read everything and everywhere he went. This is probably one of the reasons Alexie never fail in school and his succeed life, because he loved to learn. He also committed to help other Indian in the Reservation by helping them to learn how to read and write. Alexie purpose was to try to save their lives. â€Å"I am smart. I am arrogant. I am lucky. I am trying to save our lives† (16).

Prose Written Before Nineteen Hundred Essay

This assessment objective requires students to respond to the question with views informed by the interpretations of others. By others is meant fellow students, teachers and, more obviously, professional critics. Others can also refer to cultural perspectives adopted from varying standpoints: religious, political, class, age or gender based. The requirement can be looked at in two ways: (i) as a request that we include the views of critics to illuminate a point, support an argument or as claims that needs to be challenged. Remember that external critical opinions need to be acknowledged ( and referenced where possible) in order to pre-empt accusations of plagiarism. (ii) as an invite to demonstrate awareness that we tend, as individuals, to interpret texts from within sets of personal and cultural frameworks: gender, age, class, race, nationality, creed, historical era and psychological make-up. For example, your sympathy or otherwise Henry Fleming in The Red Badge of Courage may be influenced your gender age, class and political affiliation, creed, psychological make-up and the era in which you are rooted. General McClurg’s famous diatribe on the novel clearly relates to his upbringing, military experience and status and particular brand of patriotism. Other, more appreciative views of the work may have been constructed from within a different, more humanistic sphere. Coriolanus has been interpreted in different places and eras as military hero, fascist strongman and tyrannical opponent of democracy. It is obvious that at the present day one’s sympathy or otherwise for Coriolanus could relate to one’s politics. The question of whether King Lear implies the existence of an after life and an ultimate moral order may be determined by whether or not the reader possesses a religious sensibility. Whereas a Christian might see the plot as having a ‘redemptive pattern’, an atheist might view the conclusion as patently pessimistic. Again, attitudes to the sisters in the play could relate, at least partially, to the reader’s views on feminism and attitude to patriarchy.

Children and Television Essay

Nearly every household has access to television programming. With the variety of programs available children are exposed to many factors concerning choice. These choices can lead to a wide array of results depending on the type of content which is viewed. Positive programming can promote the learning of valuable skills and knowledge to enable success in life, while negative programming may have diverse opposite effects. The contents of television programming affect the health, behaviors and learned life skills in children. First, a discussion of physical health concerns. Television viewing by children can cause a variety of physical health concerns. Children face physical health issues because of the amount of time they spend watching television. A couple of these physical concerns are eyesight and eating disorders. The length of time children focus on the television screen, and the proximity they sit from the television screen, causes them to develop eyesight problems. Ideally, children should sit approximately â€Å"five feet away† from the television set according to McWilliams and Moulder. (1999) On the contrary, The Nemours Foundation explains the fallacy of children sitting close to television screens is not a cause of eyesight problems because children have the ability to focus at a closer distance than adults. (2010) In either event whether the sitting close to the television is the cause or a sign of an eye problem caution should still be used in not allowing children to sit too close to the television screen. Children also face problems with eating disorders from watching television. Children become fixated on programs causing inattention to their eating habits. Some children will not eat at all while others tend to overeat. These eating disorders are influenced by the content children are viewing through specific programming. One factor of this programming is that the advertisements target children encouraging them to desire specific products, such as how McDonalds offers toys to attract sales of their products. Findings of Zimmerman and Bell conclude, â€Å"Television viewing may be a sedentary activity, but it is not for that reason that it is associated with obesity in children. The relationship between television viewing and obesity among children is limited to commercial television viewing and probably operates through the effect of advertising obesogenic foods on television† (2010 p338). Children also face psychological health concerns in relation to television viewing. As children advance in age their minds become more developed giving them a better understanding of the environment surrounding them. Some content available on television causes specific phobias which â€Å"include fear of insects, snakes, and dogs; escalators, elevators, and bridges; high places; and open spaces† as well as many others† (Healthofchildren. com, 2012). The development of these phobias causes elevated anxiety levels in children. Children who watch many hours of graphic content such as horror movies, nature programs, and news broadcasts which implant images in their impressionable, young minds providing them with a sense that the world is an unsafe place. These anxieties influence different behaviors in children. Generally the negative content that can be viewed on television causes children to mimic behaviors and actions of the characters they see. â€Å"Repeated exposure to TV violence makes children less sensitive toward its effects on victims and the human suffering it causes† (Boyse, 2010). Children use their imagination during play. Children will oftentimes play games such as cops and robbers, cowboys and indians, or even mimic their favorite wrestling star causing harm to each other. These behaviors are viewed as unacceptable in society and can overflow into situations where the actions are inappropriate such as in school, grocery stores, or movie theaters. As children may not have a complete understanding of the motives of the content which they were presented though television, they may accept them as reality. However, the acceptance of this reality can cause positive behaviors as well. â€Å"Children imitate their parental role models that they love and trust; then they imitate other role models that might not be so worthy† ( Jagers, 2007). Depending on their understanding of the consequences of an action, children may choose a different mode of behavior concerning situations they encounter throughout their lives. A child who views someone getting burned may take caution when they are in a similar situation themselves. If a child observes someone calling 911 seeking assistance in an emergency situation, when confronted with this type of situation they will think to use this to their advantage. Some television shows for children encourage positive behaviors such as empathy, kindness, and helping others. These television shows encourage emotional development allowing children to display positive behaviors. One show that has these qualities is â€Å"Dora the Explorer† which highlights characters helping each other, helping other characters to achieve tasks, and being kind by using polite language such as please and thank you. Shows like â€Å"Dora the Explorer† provide children with a foundation of necessary life skills. Children learn various life skills such as social roles and interactions through the content of television programming. Television characters through their interactions teach children how to behave within certain situations. Viewing these interactions give children a guideline of social behaviors in a variety of situations that allow children to react to real life situations in a similar manner. The roles are not limited to specific situations in childhood, but reach across the lifespan. Children use television as an expectation of real life situations. A child who views family based programs will conclude a model of functionality within a family. Some shows portray families that are functional whereas other shows portray dysfunctional families. These programs provide children a model to relate their personal experiences. If a child comes from a dysfunctional family they may envy the lives of characters in functioning television families. In other ways, when viewing a dysfunctional family on television, a child may find new methods to solve problems within their own family. Television shows such as â€Å"Reba† may give children who are subject to divorce and remarriage of their parents a way to deal with the new family life they encounter. Also the gender roles highlighted on television provide children with expectations they should follow in their own lives. For girls, television may portray female roles of characters as mother, caregiver, and oftentimes business women. For boys, male character roles may be portrayed as father, disciplinarian, and supporter of the family. These expectations learned provide a productive model a child should attain in the eyes of society. Consequently, later in life a child’s impression of social rules and roles become part of their personality and can become individualized. This allows a boy who wishes to become a nurse not to view this decision as deviant. Another source of skills for success in life learned through television is the acquisition of knowledge and academic skills. â€Å"Children imitate their parental role models that they love and trust; then they imitate other role models that might not be so worthy† (Kirkman, Wartella, and Anderson, 2008, p. 47). One area of knowledge present in television shows targeted toward children is the recognition and association of letters, numbers and words. Children can be taught at a young age the association between what they are presented and hat they perceive, such as the #1 and the letter A. Through the elementary impression of these concepts a child learns secondary concepts such as reading, writing, and more. Some programming encourages the learning of foreign languages such as Chinese Spanish and French by exposing children to these languages making these concepts fun to learn. The acquisition of all these skills through television occurs in a passive manner. A child does not realize they are learning the content they perceive making television an effective outlet for teaching. Another skill set taught through television is problem solving through visual examples. As children view others making decisions concerning real life situations they can refer back to the outcome of a similar situation they may have previously viewed. This allows for them to make educated choices within their own lives or experiences. Such programs show the process one must take in problem solving, empowering them with the skills to decipher between right and wrong. Television also presents a less desirable outcome for successful life skills. Children who view content inappropriate for their age struggle with academics as well as face specific challenges later in life. As children gain an understanding of the content they are watching on television the presence of these struggles begins to decrease in their influential strength. An effect previously mentioned of children mimicking behaviors viewed on television, if a child learns and reflects defiant behavior toward authority the effect will not only cause poor grades but also dropping out of school. The child will avoid homework assignments because of the commands and deadlines made by the teacher. This defiance of authority leads to reprisals from administrators such as principals and academic counselors. Another challenge to the academic lives of children is the presence of structure in schools. This struggle exists because television can be accessed at any time whereas school has a specific schedule. A child struggles to focus during these times. A major cause of this inattention is that television produces a higher level of activity than school. Naturally the child would choose the more stimulating activity, which in the eyes of the child is television.

Compare Two Theories of First/Second Language Acquisition

A3 Compare two theories of first/second language acquisition. The process by which humans acquire the capacity to distinguish properly as well as produce and use words to understand and communicate with others is known as first language acquisition. It focuses mainly on how infants pick up their native language, including syntax and some extensive vocabulary items, having so little input. We can distinguish many theoretical approaches towards the first language learning process.Behaviourists, for instance, whose main motto is ‘Say what I say’ claim that learning of the language is the result of habit formation, imitation practice and feedback on success. Children naturally imitate what they hear in their environment, then if they receive positive reinforcement, they are able to form ‘habits’ of proper language use. On the other hand, a linguist Noam Chomsky holds that language development may be compared to the most basic biological functions such as an abil ity to walk as â€Å"every child will learn to walk as long as adequate nourishment and reasonable freedom of movement are provided† (Lightbown and Spada 1999:15).Both theories emphasize the importance of the environment which plays a crucial role when stimulating child’s language development. Hence, in order to pick up the language in a proper way the child must be exposed to the language given. However, contradictory to the behaviourist theory, Chomsky claims that the language is, to some degree, confusing and the provided information is not sufficient for a child to learn the language only by imitating particular words and phrases.That is to say, the environment fails to provide all necessary information which the child needs. To sum up, the greatest difference between behaviourism and innatism is the opinion about child’s mind. Behaviourists claim that child should be, in some way, programmed by the environment, meaning child’s mind is a blank slate t hat has to be filled. However, Chomsky is of the opinion that every child comes to this world with a special ability to discover all language rules by itself. Bibliography: Lightbown, P. and Spada, N. 1999. How Languages are Learned. Oxford: OUP.