Alternative Ending To Catcher in the Rye Essay

Anyway, I really did go home after the carrousel. First, Phoebe and I walked out of the park and took the bus to Grand Central, to get my god dam Gladstone’s out of the strong box there. Though it had stopped hammering down, I was still pretty wet. Boy, it really came down like a madman. I still had ‘Phoebe’s’ red hunting hat on, it was soaking wet though. I didn’t care though. â€Å"I’m glad we’re both going home now, Holden†, she said. â€Å"I’m just ready to get this over with†, I said, â€Å"Mom and dad will cry.† â€Å"Don’t worry, Holden. It’ll be okay†, Phoebe said. She squeezed my hand which she was holding and smiled. It just about killed me. We had most of Phoebe’s Christmas dough, so we got my Gladstone’s, and took the bus to 72nd street. There were a bunch of kids at the back of the bus. They were all horsing around, laughing and all. We sat next to them. We took up a lot of room, since we had my two suitcases, plus my old suitcase with Phoebe’s stuff in it. I heard some kid say, â€Å"Phoebe, your brother found you!† I looked across the bus. It was that kid I met in the park yesterday, the girls who roller skates I’d tightened and all. â€Å"Holden’s coming to see me in the play†, she said to the girl. She tugged my arm, â€Å"This is my brother Holden, Holden, this is Susie. She’s in the play too!† â€Å"Yes†, Susie said, â€Å"It should be really great†. She was so polite. I really liked her. I usually like Phoebe’s friends when I first meet them. Phoebe and Susie helped me get my mind off of how I was about to face my parents. I was worried about my mom. I tried not to think of how hysterical she’d get. Phoebe said mom and dad were coming home at around 7. It was 4 now. We got off the bus at 72nd street, said goodbye to Susie and all, and then walked home. â€Å"How are Mr. and Mrs. Antolini?† she asked me. â€Å"They’re doing pretty good†, I said. Of course I would never tell her what really happened. I still couldn’t believe it. Had he always liked me in a flirty way? We got home, and I took my suitcases into my room and I lay down on my bed. I was pretty tired. All of a sudden i got to thinking about Pencey. I wondered what they were all saying about me back there. I started thinking maybe I was wrong, leaving so suddenly after that god dam little tiff with Stradlater. He’s really not a bad guy. In fact, I sort of missed him. I’ll give old Jane a bell tomorrow, if it’s not too crazy here. So I unpacked a few things in my room, and smoked all of my cigarettes. I was so god dam nervous. Around 7 o’clock, mom and dad walked in together. At the time, I was right there in the hallway, so they saw me right away. I really didn’t care if they yelled at me. I felt numb and empty inside. I was really hungry, but too worried to eat. If you want to know the truth, I was in pretty bad shape. Even though I changed and washed before mom and dad came home, I felt that I must have looked a state. I hadn’t shaved in a few days. Anyway, they looked all dressed up and nice when they came through the door. â€Å"Holden! What’s going on? What are you doing here? Its’ Tuesday†, my dad said. I took a deep breath, and then started coughing all over the place. Christ, what a time to have a coughing fit ey? I finally cleared my throat. â€Å"Well†, I said, â€Å"I†¦I got kicked out again. I’m really sorry† â€Å"Damn it, Holden! I can’t take it anymore!† Dad yelled. Mom had already started sobbing. I felt awful. Seeing Mom cry really killed me. â€Å"Holden, what the hell is wrong with you!? I paid a ton of money to send you to these schools and all you do is get kicked out every god dam time! I know you’re not stupid! You can pass these classes! I know it’s that you’re not applying yourself!† Boy was he mad. His face was all red, and all these veins were sticking out in his neck. I was kinda scared that he would hit me. We’re a pretty non-violent family. I was thinking about Allie the whole time Dad was yelling at me. I don’t know how long the whole thing lasted. â€Å"Damn it, Holden, you’ve really pushed my buttons this time! Look at how well DB and Phoebe are doing. Can’t you follow their lead?† Mom was just sobbing the whole time that the argument was going on. I started drifting off again, I thought about Mr. Antolini. I could be there now, having an intellectual conversation with him, smoking a cigarette. I kept thinking about him patting me on the head. Does he look at me as another son figure? Or does he have feelings for me? Or was he just really drunk? It didn’t seem right at all. When I got there, he should have noticed how tired I was and just let me sleep. So, Dad was kept on yelling at me and sent me to my room. I walked into my room, shut the door, and lay down on my bed again and lit a cigarette that I found in my hounds tooth jacket pocket. I hardly ever see Dad this mad. I heard my mom crying in their bedroom, and my father trying to comfort her. I started thinking of the military school. I knew I’d hate it there, even more than the other schools I’d been to. The next thing I knew, I was sort of crying. Normally I’m not a huge crier, but here I was, crying my god dam eyes out. I heard a little knock at the door, and old Phoebe came in. â€Å"I heard you crying, don’t worry Holden, everything will blow over†. She sat on the side of my bed and hugged me. Trust Phoebe to do something phony like that, but all the same, it was kinda cute. Phoebe went to bed at around 9 o’clock and I was still awake by 11. I couldn’t sleep. I felt kinda weak, and I kept coughing like a madman. That’s about it, that’s all I’m gonna tell you. I could go on and tell you about the military school and Phoebe and all. But I think I told too much already.

Abercrombie & FItch vs American Eagle Essay

INTRODUCTION Fashion may be defined as a way of living, decorating, etc., which is popular today, but will soon lose their popularity. It is something passing and temporary, a simple craze of the moment to be looked down upon with dislike. For example, tight pants are the fashion today, but only a short while ago broad loose pants were the order of the day. If today a man appears in society wearing broad pants, he would be held up to ridicule, but only a few years ago they were the height of fashion, symbols of good taste and culture. American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) and Abercrombie & Fitch (A&F) are two companies that play a major role in the clothing industry. The following discussion with compare and contrast the competitive advantages of the supply chain of the two companies. COMPANY HISTORY AEO American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., a billion dollar corporation, is ranked as one of the largest retail chains in America. With their central corporate headquarters in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and two other corporate facilities located in New York City and Tokyo, Japan, American Eagle, Inc. operates numerous mainline stores, factory stores, franchised stores, and distribution centers across the country and the globe. In 1977, brothers, Jerry and Mark Silverman, who owned and operated Silverman’s Menswear, a Retail Ventures, Inc. company, founded American Eagle Outfitters. Opening their first store in Novi, Michigan at Twelve Oaks Mall, the Silverman brothers were hoping to diversify their menswear line (AEO Management Co., 2013). Several stores were opened up and a catalog was created. American Eagle Outfitters continued to grow into 1990, when Jacob Price took over which led to the introduction of casual, private-label merchandise for men and women. In 1994, American Eagle Outfitters became  part of the NASDAQ stock exchange, which enabled the opening of 90 stores the following year (AEO Management Co., 2013). In 1996, new executives joined AEO and decided to modify the target demographics of the target market and reach more women, as well as focus on those who were between the ages of 18 and 32. Shortly after, American Eagle expanded to e-commerce with ae.com. By 2000, American Eagle operated 500 stores and revenues for the company quintupled to $1 billion. The Canadian market was penetrated in 2001 and in 2003 American Eagle expanded to Hawaii. Aerie, a brand extension of American Eagle, focusing on intimates for women, was launched in 2006. Another line extension, 77kids, which offered clothing for babies to pre-teen girls and boys, was established online in 2008 and the first 77kids store was opened in 2010. Today, American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. operates over 1,000 stores, including 911 American Eagle Outfitters stores, 158 Aerie stores, and 21 77Kids stores, 21 of which are franchised around the globe. Additionally, ae.com, which includes links to Aerie and 77kids, reaches 77 countries. American Eagle Outfitters offers apparel, shoes, and accessories for both men and women. Clothing merchandise is comprised of denims, sweaters, graphic T’s, fleece and sweatshirts, outerwear, tops and shirts, dresses, and skirts. Shoe merchandise includes sneakers, boots, flats, sandals, slippers, clogs, heals, loafers and socks. Accessories merchandise consists of jewelry, hats, sunglasses, scarves, bags, perfume and cologne, purses, and wallets. Aerie offers merchandise for college girls that include dorm wear, such as sweats and pajamas, exercise apparel, bras, underwear, accessories, and some personal care items. 77kids offers apparel for infants, children, and preteen girls and boys (AEO Management Co., 2013). A&F Abercrombie & Fitch originated in 1891 as a retail sporting goods store based in New York City. It was known for its wide variety of expensive and often exotic sporting equipment and attire, ranging from tennis shoes to elephant guns. For more than half a century, the store’s apparel, guns, tackle, and other merchandise were the image of wealth and prestige. When it expanded, the firm confined its new branch stores to downtown areas of large cities and to resort areas. In the early 1970s, Abercrombie & Fitch attempted to widen its customer base by adding less-expensive items to its usual stock and by moving into the suburbs, where other stores had been building for some time. Although these steps did attract new customers, they came too late; Abercrombie & Fitch was in financial trouble and filed for bankruptcy in 1976 after 85 years in business (Encyclopedia Britannica Online, 2013). Oshman’s Sporting Goods, Inc. bought the firm in1978. In 1988 Abercrombie & Fitch was bought by The Limited, Inc (Encyclopedia Britannica Online, 2013). Repositioned as the trademarked â€Å"casual luxury† brand, it became parent to the subsidiary brands Abercrombie kids, a children’s line launched in 1998 and marketed as Abercrombie; Hollister Co., a line for younger teens launched in 2000; RUEHL No. 925, a line targeting post-graduate s launched in 2004; and Gilly Hicks, a women’s line launched in 2008. Following Abercrombie & Fitch’s overhaul, the company received significant criticism for its advertising and its clothing, which were perceived by many as encouraging its target audience to adopt a sexually promiscuous lifestyle (Encyclopedia Britannica Online, 2013). MISSION STATEMENT AEO American Eagle has a clearly defined set of â€Å"corporate values† which guides the actions of employees at all levels of the AE organization: PEOPLE The vitality of our company resides in our people. We collaborate, we engage, we achieve (About.com, 2013). INTEGRITY We hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards. In the face of difficulties and challenges, we don’t compromise (About.com, 2013). PASSION Our passion infuses our actions and purpose. It transforms stores into places of energy and customer delight (About.com, 2013). INNOVATION We operate in a dynamic and competitive industry. We continually refine the unique processes that drive our business, and we use insightful research and analysis to balance our instinct and to guide our decisions. Our associates embody entrepreneurial spirit, develop creative solutions, and initiate change (About.com, 2013). TEAMWORK We work together – listening to one another, reaching consensus and supporting group decisions. We celebrate achievements. Because we respect and trust one another and commit ourselves to our company goals, our teamwork succeeds (About.com, 2013). Additionally American Eagle has a service goal that guides employees in their everyday retailing tasks: â€Å"We respond to the needs of our customer and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done (About.com, 2013).† A&F â€Å"Abercrombie and Fitch focuses upon high-quality merchandise that compliments the casual classic American lifestyle (About.com, 2013).†   But beyond that simple mission statement, Abercrombie & Fitch emphasizes its brand vision, brand attributes, and the value of the Abercrombie & Fitch brand, which has been of ultimate importance since CEO Mike Jeffries took on the leadership role. Abercrombie & Fitch has said this about its brand to its stakeholders: â€Å"The A&F brand is more authentic and relevant than ever. The brand is our lifestyle, our focus—it ensures growth and promises stability. A great brand is a center of growth and revenue—it represents a relationship with customers. It’s not a faddish chip to be cashed in on shortsighted gains. The value of having a great brand is far-reaching and cannot be overstated—it’s a snowball effect. The A&F label gives us the ability to evolve, creating endless growth opportunities. It helps us attract the brightest, most talented young people from around the country. It attracts millions to our website. It allows for greater profit margins. It lessens the risk of moving on new business concepts. It promotes innovation. It ensures long-term profitability. It adds built-in value to everything we produce. It accelerates growth. It stabilizes. It gives focus and direction. It produces an emotional response in consumers (About.com, 2013).† Comparing these two mission statements, it is clear that American Eagle Outfitters is focused more on just their merchandise, unlike Abercrombie & Fitch. AEO has a passion not only for their brand and employees but their consumers as well. While A&F, is only focused on their brand not on the  operational execution of its employees, or the experience of its customers. This holds true of A&F because recently their CEO, Mike Jeffries, came under fire for reportedly saying they only target to â€Å"thin and beautiful people† which is why they do not sell or make any size over 10 or large for women. Mike Jeffries has said, â€Å"That’s why we hire good-looking people because good-looking people attract other good-looking people, and we want to market to cool, good-looking people. We don’t market to anyone other than that (Walker, 2013).† On A&F’s website, they claim to embrace diversity throughout the entire organization but what Mike Jeffries has been quoted saying, is contradictory of what the company claims they are about. â€Å"We are committed to embracing the diversity of our associates and management throughout our organization. On the surface, our dedication to maintaining a diverse working and shopping environment can be easily seen by walking through one of our stores, domestically and internationally. More notably, Abercrombie & Fitch’s commitment can be seen through our exceptional diversity programs, whether they are internal or external, and the results they yield. Diversity reflects the multidimensional insights we share collectively. Simply put, it is imperative to our growth that we staff our business with diverse talent and run our business with an inclusive mindset (Abercrombie & Fitch, 2013).† SUPPLY CHAIN AEO American Eagle Outfitters strategy to improve apparel factory working conditions starts with factory inspections based on their Vendor Code of Conduct. They then focus on remediating the issues they find during those inspections, which often includes additional factory training and capacity building programs (AEO Management Co., 2013). They partner with other brands and retailers, multi-stakeholder organizations, civil society groups, trade unions, governments, and others to better understand and address what is happening in the factories and countries where their clothes are made. By working together, they strive to  collectively develop more sustainable solutions to the problems they find (AEO Management Co., 2013). Finally, they are committed to being obvious about how they are doing. By reporting publicly on their efforts, this is one of the many ways they ensure that they remain focused on their goals, disciplined in their efforts, and accountability for their performance (AEO Management Co., 2013). A&F Abercrombie & Fitch has very tight control over the design and manufacturing of their clothing. To help the company keep control, have higher margins and protect the brand, they design their own ranges which are manufactured exclusively for A&F. The head office for A&F is located in Ohio and is called â€Å"The Campus†. At this location, there is a center known as the â€Å"Innovative Design Center†. Here, a dedicated team uses over 100 wash, quality assurance, lab and graphic machines (Webb, 2009). They are responsible for merchandise design and development. â€Å"Design packages† were created by the company to reduce the time and cost of product development (Webb, 2009). These design packages are then given to the vendors. By keeping strict control over design, manufacturing and product development, the company is able to protect the brand from being copied and having the image damaged. By having greater control, it allows A&F to deliver on their promise to the customer and consumer. This in turn creates a relationship based on trust and gives them a competitive advantage. Again, with Abercrombie & Fitch, they are more focused on keeping control of their brand and image, while American Eagle Outfitters are trying to improve factory conditions for their workers. This once again proves that A&F does not care about their people. CONCLUSION In summary, Abercrombie & Fitch and American Eagle Outfitters play a significant role in the clothing industry. While A&F’s practices are some  what contradictory and outlandish, AEO remains the opposite. A&F needs to take a cue from AEO and focus more on their consumers than just their brand. There is no question why it is that AEO is ranked at 649 on the Fortune 1000 List and A&F is trailing behind them at 651 (Salesforce, 2013). Works Cited Abercrombie & Fitch. (2013). Diversity Commitment. Retrieved from A&F Cares: http://www.anfcares.org/diversity/commitment.jsp About.com. (2013). Abercrombie & Fitch Mission Statement. Retrieved from About.com: http://retailindustry.about.com/od/retailbestpractices/ig/Company-Mission-Statements/Abercrombie—Fitch-Mission-Statement.htm About.com. (2013). American Eagle Company Mission Statement. Retrieved from About.com: http://retailindustry.about.com/od/retailbestpractices/ig/Company-Mission-Statements/American-Eagle-Mission-Values.htm AEO Management Co. (2013). AEO History. Retrieved from American Eagle Outfitters: http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=81256&p=irol-history AEO Management Co. (2013). AEO Supply Chain. Retrieved from American Eagle Outfitters: http://www.ae.com/web/corpResp/supply_chain/our_strategy.jsp Encyclopedia Britannica Online. (2013). Abercrombie & Fitch. Retrieved from Encyclopedia Britannica Online: http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/1121/ Abercrombie-Fitch Salesforce. (2013). Fortune 1000 Company List. Retrieved from Data.com Connect: https://connect.data.com/directory/company/fortune/1000 Walker, T. (2013, May 08). Not available in XL. Retrieved from The Indepedent: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/not-available-in-xl-abercrombie–fitch-ceo-mike-jeffries-accused-of-only-wanting-thin-and-beautiful-people-8608022.html Webb, B. (2009). Managing the Fashion Brand Case Study Assignment.

Mulan Essay

The film Mulan is set in ancient China, in an undefined dynasty. The Huns have penetrated the Great Wall and have invaded China. The emperor orders that new soldiers be drafted. Mulan, a girl who recently humiliated her family by failing the Matchmaker’s assessment, in order to save her aging father from death at war, steals her father’s armor and masquerades as a soldier. Throughout the film, several historical inaccuracies, as well as accurate portrayals, become apparent, in such respects as religious philosophies, historical inconsistencies and through the heavy American influence in the making of the film. Ancient Chinese philosophies, which are still present today, played a huge role in the film and were accurately utilized in advancing the plot. At the beginning of the film, upon the emperor learning of the Hun’s invasion, the general suggested that the army move to protect the emperor’s city. He refused, and ordered that the army move out to protect his people. According to the ideas of Confucianism, one of the key relationships is that of the ruler and his subjects. The ruler must always protect and serve them. With this in mind, the emperor prioritized the safety of his subjects over his own. Confucianism is also very clear about the place of women in society. Women are to stay in the house and quietly raise children and always be obedient towards her husband and father. Mulan defied all of these rules as she took her father’s place in the army. Later, she found that everyone trusted and listened to her while she was under the guise of a man, but as soon as her true identity was revealed, her captain refused to listen to her. This accurately portrays the Confucian idea that women are inferior to men and don’t belong in positions of power. Confucianism wasn’t the only philosophy present in Mulan, but Daoism as well. Two instances where Daoism is visible is during the training scene, and where the emperor refuses to bow to Shan Yu. During the song sequence where Captain Shang trains his soldiers, he says such things as, â€Å"You must be swift as a coursing river†¦ With the strength of a great typhoon†¦ Mysterious as the dark side of the moon. † When the Shan Yu demanded that the emperor bow to him, the emperor brusquely stated, â€Å"No matter how much the wind blows, the mountain cannot bow to it. † Both of these examples illustrate a spiritual connection to nature, a key aspect of Daoism. The writers of Mulan clearly did adequate research on Chinese philosophies in order to accurately use them in the film. Despite the accuracies in the usage of Chinese philosophies, there were various historical inconsistencies throughout the film. The construction of the Great Wall was started in the Qin Dynasty, and was not as tall as it was portrayed in the film until much later. The Huns were repelled from China for the final time during the Han Dynasty. Fireworks weren’t invented until the Tang Dynasty. The Forbidden City wasn’t built until the Ming Dynasty. All of these events occur hundreds of years apart, yet the film contains a completed Great Wall, a Hun invasion, fireworks and the Forbidden City all in the same undefined time period. It could be the filmmakers didn’t do enough research to be aware of these inconsistencies, but it’s more likely that it was decided that these historical inaccuracies could be allowed to to slide for the sake of the film. American culture strongly influenced several aspects of the film. For example, at times, racial stereotypes seem even more exaggerated than they need to be. The emperor’s council has the humorous asian face and voice. At the training camp and at Mulan’s house, people ate nothing but white rice. Mulan contains somewhat extreme asian stereotypes that were spawned from the American view of asian societies. The story is also influenced by American culture. One idea that is seen by many as distinctly American is the desire to do what is right, even if it against the norm. This idea is the subject of many a famous American story. That idea is present again in Mulan, as she rides off to war to save her father, despite his wishes and the law. The whole idea of ‘doing what you know is right’ is an idea that Americans hold on tight to. Examining the Huns, the primary antagonists in the film, we see them portrayed how Americans would portray any of its national enemies. Throughout the film, the Huns make themselves out to be unstoppable brutes with an everlasting bloodlust, who press on to assault the Chinese capital despite losing their entire army, save a few. By the end of the film, we can’t help but see them as rabid animals who can only be stopped by being put down. Historically, America is very good at dehumanizing its enemies in this manner, most notably during World War 2, with the Japanese and Germans, nd even today to an extent, making terrorists in the middle east seem like targets for missiles and shells in our eyes. American culture influenced the writing if the Huns’ characters heavily. Mulan is without a doubt an excellent film that has entertained more than a few generations. However, it is filled with historical inaccuracies as well as ideas that were noticeably influenced by American culture. Just the same, the accurate usage of Chinese philosophies in the movie make it all the better. With this in mind, we can not only understand Mulan, but also be able to analyze any film and with it, have a wider view of the world.

Discrimination In Gender Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Discrimination In Gender - Essay Example Several people would disagree that females should not even be functioning as it is. Countless individuals consider that a woman's position is only inside their dwellings. Conceivably that is the principle in numerous societies. It would appear to be advantageous to contain at least a parent within the home taking care of the children more willingly that situating them inside a daycare institution. Customarily the husband is positioned to be the worker of the family unit, although, with price increasing rates, it is ever more essential to drive the wife to go out and find a job as well. Women ought to be dealt with as the same and be compensated the same as that with a man if he would be in the similar position. Gender role distinctiveness reveals the ideological disagreements underlying the prevailing gender representation within North American civilization. That representation directs us to consider that female, as well as male attitudes, are the outcome of publicly directed hormona l directives which denotes that females may want to contain children and may consequently find themselves somewhat dependent and reliant on males for back up and safeguarding. The representation declares that males are inherently insistent and viable and therefore will dictate above females. The societal hegemony of this principles guarantees that every one of us is brought up to perform gender functions which will substantiate this idea of the natural world of the sexes. Natural confirmation is evasive about the foundation of gender position.

Response paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 9

Response paper - Essay Example I personally agree with Ray Bradbury in virtually all the issues he raised. Bradbury says quantity brings about quality in work. The more one works and gain more experience the more quality his or her work becomes (McKenzie 40). After work, relaxation of the body is vital and I don`t think there is something that results in more relaxation and in turn more creativity like writing. In the circumstance where writers don’t think, they end up copying other writers work and compromising quality of their work. Just as an artist may think of the money he or she will earn after the work instead of focusing on the truth and the internal feeling that his or her work entails and bring out the beauty of the art work, most commercial writers do slanted stories, focusing on the money they will cash from their banks while ignoring the originality and creativity they could possibly have in their work. Most upcoming writers engage their working time only to give out unoriginal story lacking creativity simply because the commercial market has taken over them and dictate what they write. The body should be left alone to think and act for itself and let the writings flow from inside you not from external forces (McKenzie 44). While new writers are at liberty to imitate and emulate other prominent writers in history, it is only allowed up to some extent and should not eliminate the ability of a man to become truly creative in his work. The writer should select a field where he or she thinks his ideas will develop more comfortably. One needs to remember that selecting a field to write on is absolutely different from slanting within that field (McKenzie 46). In conclusion, what you think of the world should characterize what you think. Consider yourself as a prism and measure the light of the world. Give the light back to the world in a totally different perspective. Let your feeling and thinking about the world dictate your writing. Bring out your ideas

Political Double Lives Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Political Double Lives - Essay Example ugh the media was slow to react, the story became front-page news, occupying television and newspapers’ attentions for weeks until it slowly faded away (Harris). The case of Edwards’ mishap provides a paradigm case of the private life of a public figure being made public. In many ways, this case study is symptomatic of an entire piece of the population that hold public office. The question surrounds the issue of whether they should be allowed to have a private life or whether their private matters ought to be kept out of the limelight. Certainly, there is a case to be made for keeping politicians’ lives under constant scrutiny. Recently, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton came under fire for her husband’s presidential library acceptance of large donations from the royal family of Saudi Arabia (Solomon and Birnbaum). Concerned about a conflict of interest, media scrutiny resolved the issue and nothing wrong could be found. This is a paradigm case of private affairs being pertinent in a public matter for a politician. Nevertheless, we should not make politicians sacrifice themselves as human beings for the greater good of the public’s democracy. However, this debate does not require us to choose between extremes. As Tony Blair recently said, â€Å"Ministers should not be judged on their private lives unless their behavior affected the performance of their public duties† (Webster). That is, only in cases where there is a potential conflict of interests, such as in Clinton’s case, should politicians revoke the right to privacy. This dispute originates, for the most part, because of the democratic structure of most developed countries’ governments (BBC). Constituents expect of those they rightly elect to represent them to represent them in all ways, both in the policies they advocate for on the job and how they live their lives off the job. Given the enormous power the people vest in their elected officials, it seems only right, in the context of social

Business Management Proposal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Business Management Proposal - Essay Example (Rigby, 2005) The basic aim of the proposal would be to develop a modification of law based on the marketing plan for Visual Management Systems Ltd for expansion into the southern States of the country. Apart form this central theme it would also be looked upon there should be enough opportunity and specified methods to penetrate and expand market segments for the company in relation to the use and capability of the CCTV related security technology from the parameters of marketing and for this aspects too your moral and legislative help is extremely needed. The world is in the midst of an all-purpose technological revolution based on CCTV related security technology, defined here as visual security, software related surveillance techniques, and CCTV related security equipment. The macroeconomic benefits of the CCTV related security technology revolution are already apparent in some economies, especially the United States and United Kingdom. Historical experience has shown that such revolutions have often been accompanied by financial booms and busts, and the CCTV related security technology revolution has been no exception. But, while spending on CCTV related security technology goods is likely to remain stable ... While technological change is an ongoing process, there are periods during which technological progress is especially rapid, resulting in new products and falling prices of existing products that have widespread uses in the rest of the economy. Such periods are generally identified with CCTV related security technology revolutions. (Hood, 2003) Earlier examples include textiles production and steam power in the industrial revolution, railroads in the nineteenth century, and electricity in the early twentieth century (the automobile could also be included, but its development was relatively gradual). The effects of such revolutions have generally occurred in three (often overlapping) main stages. First, technological change raises productivity growth in the innovating sector; second, falling prices encourage capital deepening; and, finally, there can be significant reorganization of production around the capital goods that embody the new technology. (Hall, 2006) The growth of the CCTV related security technology sector in the 1980s was an important development for the economy, but it spurred relatively little policy or media interest. True, CCTV related security technology was recognized as a driver of comparative advantage for the US and the UK and there were a few initiatives involving industrial policy and military preparedness, CCTV related security technology was of interest primarily to specialists. (Prawer, 2005) A unique confluence of forces certainly came together in the 1990s: rapid technological advances in the technology sector; widespread recognition that security could be used to comparative advantage as well as process it; the rapid

Change Management term paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Change Management - Term Paper Example The Aster Group provides homes and housing related services in England. For excellent leadership and performance, it secured the â€Å"Beacon Company† award in 2006. In fact, the company was forced to change and diversify due to a number of factors. First of all, as Green (2007) notes, the company wanted to shift from a local authority culture to an autonomous not-for-profit nature. Also, the Housing Corporation decided to reduce the number of approved organizations from 350 to 70. So, to retain business, the company had to go a long way from its 110th position. The way to achieve the same for Aster was to merge and seek new alliances. Starting at the Top However, one can observe slight differences in the way both of the companies introduced change. In the case of Biogen Idec, the company set up a project team, which looked into the various factors associated with the change. Various heads including â€Å"international business, commercial operations, human resources, and int ernational legal affairs were part of the project team, and every aspect of the change† was identified and analyzed (Green, 2007, p.90). Admittedly, the company was performing well in accordance with the Change Management guideline which indicates that it is necessary to understand the need for change through Diagnosing Change (Change Management, n. d.). On the other hand, in Aster, the change started from the new chief executive of the company, who tried to introduce a culture that just â€Å"keeps moving all the time†. In other words, observing the challenges ahead, the chief executive decided to move away from its local authority structure and develop a group structure. Thus, the company worked with Testway – and both chief executives considered open discussion as an important factor to ensure proper collaboration. As acquisition and merger were a part of the change strategy, a board was developed, which included important leaders of both the firms. And as the re were more mergers and acquisitions, more and more personnel were included in the board according to requirements. Anyway, as Gossas commented, the leadership led the change in both of the cases (Ahiberg & Naucler, 2007). Involving all the Layers In Aster Group, first of all, replacing the previous autocratic management style, the new chief executive introduced the culture of open communication and feedback. This resulted in better cooperation from the part of managers and other staff. Thus, at first, he managed to secure the belief and support of the managers and staff. Then, he encouraged the people to contribute their own opinions and suggestions for the future course of action. Here, as Jones, Aguirre, and Calderone (2004) point out, the leadership was giving adequate attention to the human factor, because, for making all the employees committed to the vision of change, the leadership role was effectively handed over to the managers. According to the writers, after allowing au tonomy in day to day operations, the board focused on long term strategic issues; and anyway, both the companies followed the golden rule that change should start at the top. Also, by enlightening and enabling all the layers, the leadership ensured the involvement of every layer. Increased Autonomy to Units and Affiliates In fact, both the companies changed their management styles to introduce various autonomous or semi-autonomous units. To illustrate, the board of Aster Group decided to hand over

Strategic management of healthcare organization Research Paper

Strategic management of healthcare organization - Research Paper Example Health insurance is a hindrance to management of diabetes, normally with dire consequences. Diabetes management costs can be as much as two hundred dollars a month. Adults who are uninsured are less likely to receive care needed for disease management than those with insurance. Meanwhile, those having health insurance have hardships obtaining needed care when there is inadequate coverage. Common place events, most often, lead to adults losing health insurance. These are divorce and change or loss of ones job. Health insurance depends on the applicant’s employment and family status, state of residence, health status, income, and age. Any change in these factors often can and will lead to automatic disruption or change in health coverage. On average, two and a half million Americans lose insurance cover every month (Karen et al 88). It is difficult to regain ones health insurance once revoked (Karen et al 89). Adults suffering from the debilitating disease who apply for health insurance individually are more often than not denied. Many of the victims can not access qualification for Medicare or Medicaid. When there is the availability of new coverage, most of the diabetes patients find the coverage to be inadequate or unaffordable. Adequacy, affordability, and access barriers are redundant and create layers upon layers of hardships which the diabetics cannot overcome. According to studies, when an individual loses health coverage during a period of sickness, it becomes more difficult for them to regain it as compared to healthy people (Karen et al 90). They thus go for long spells of no insurance, which worsens their situation. Policy makers need to act toward making health insurance adequate, affordable, and available. Presence of options regarding health insurance is not a guarantee for health security. More often than not, policy makers attempt to paper over cracks in the health insurance system via the creation of safety net protections, which

Benetton Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Benetton - Case Study Example As Ganesan and Krishna (2003) comments, Benetton calls its advertising and marketing activities as its communication strategy. Problems Benetton’s so called innovative communication strategy was not adequate to enhance its sales growth. Although, this advertising strategy had initially produced fruitful effects, it gradually caused dissatisfaction among customers, retailers, government bodies, and various international non-profit organizations. In most of the times, Benetton’s ‘shock value’ advertisements produced negative impacts on the public Customers did not get the opportunity to evaluate Benetton’s products since the company had not adequately advertised its products. Most of the times, company’s advertisements hurt the religious, racial, or political sentiments of different communities. Solution The company should not post advertisements that would hurt racial, political or religious sentiments. It is recommendable for the company not t o practice ‘shock value’ advertisements as its effectiveness depends on the mental perceptions of the viewers. An ultimate customer would always wish to see the company’s product collections. Therefore, the company must give great emphasis on displaying its new clothing collections.

Know how to identify development needs Essay Example for Free

Know how to identify development needs Essay Everyone has their own preferred way of learning new things. Knowing how you learn can Help you take control of situations and develop further in learning or employment situations. To help me identify my own learning style(s) and that of a member of my team, I used the VAX questionnaire below. Tick box A B or C for each question that most represents how you generally behave. ABC 1When I operate new equipment I generally:x A B CRead the instructions first Listen to an explanation from someone who has used it before Go ahead and have a go, I can figure it out as I use it 2When I need directions for travelling I usually:x A B CLook at a map Ask for spoken directions Follow my nose and maybe use a compass 3When I cook a new dish I like to:x A B CFollow a written recipe Call a friend for an explanation Follow my instincts, testing as I cook 4If I am teaching someone something new I tend to:x A B CWrite instructions down for them Give them a verbal explanation Demonstrate first and then let them have a go 5I tend to say:x A B CWatch how I do it Listen to me explain You have a go 6During my free time I most enjoy;x A B CGoing to museums and art galleries Listening to music and talking to my friends Playing sport or doing DIY 7When I go shopping for clothes I tend to:x A B CImagine what they would look like on Discuss them with the shop staff Try them on and test them out ABC 8When I am choosing a holiday I usually:x A B CRead lots of brochures Listen to recommendations from friends Imagine what it would be like to be there 9If I was buying a new car I would:x A B CRead reviews in newspapers and magazines Discuss what I need with my friends Test drive lots of different types 10When I am learning a new skill I am most comfortable:x A B CWatching what the teacher is doing Talking through with my teacher exactly what I am supposed to do Giving it a try myself and work it out as I go 11If I am choosing food from a menu I tend to:x A B CImagine what the food will look like Talk through the options in my head or with my partner Imagine what the food will taste like 12When I listen to a band I can’t help:x A B CWatching the band members and other people in the audience Listening to the lyrics and the beats Moving in time with the music 13When I concentrate I most often:x A B CFocus on the words or the pictures in front of me Discuss the problem and the possible solutions in my head Move around a lot, fiddle with pens and pencils and touch things 14I choose household furnishings because I like:x A B CTheir colours and how they look The descriptions the sales people give me Their textures and what it feels like to touch them 15My first memory is of:x A B CLooking at something Being spoken to Doing something 16When I am anxious I:x A B CVisualise the worst case scenarios Talk over in my head what worries me most Can’t sit still, fiddle and move around constantly ABC 17I feel especially connected to other people because of:x A B CHow they look What they say to me How they make me feel 18When I have to revise for an exam I generally:x A B CWrite lots of revision notes and diagrams Talk over my notes, alone or with other people Imaging make the movement or creating the formula 19If I am explaining to someone I tend to:x A B CShow them what I mean Explain to them in different ways until they understand Encourage them to try and talk them through my idea as they do it 20I really love:x A B CWatching films, photography, looking at art or people watching Listening to music, the radio or talking to friends Taking part in sporting activities, eating fine foods and wines or dancing. 21Most of my free time is spent:x A B CWatching television Talking to friends Doing physical activity or making things 22When I first contact a new person I usually:x A B CArrange a face to face meeting Talk to them on the telephone Try to get together whilst doing something else, such as an activity or meal 23I first notice how people:x A B CLook and dress Sound and speak Stand and move 24If I am angry I tend to:x A B CKeep replaying in my mind what has upset me Raise my voice and tell people how I feel Stamp about, slam doors, and physically demonstrate my anger 25I find it easiest to remember:x A B. CFaces Names Things I have done ABC 26I think you can tell if someone is lying if:x A B CThey avoid looking at you Their voice changes They give me funny vibes 27When I meet an old friend:x A B CI say ‘it’s great to see you’ I say ‘it’s great to hear from you’ I give them a hug or a handshake 28I remember things best by:x A B CWriting notes or keeping printed details Saying them aloud or repeating words and key points in my head Doing and practising the activity or imagining it being done 29If I have to complain about faulty goods I am most comfortable:x A B CWriting a letter Complaining over the phone Taking the item back to the store or posting it to head office 30I tend to say:x A B CI see what you mean I hear what you are saying I know how you feel Total number of ticks in each column:130512 If you chose mostly A’s you have a VISUAL learning style. If you chose mostly B’s you have an AUDITORY learning style. If you chose mostly C’s you have a KINAESTHETIC learning style. Learning Styles Self-Assessment Everyone has their own preferred way of learning new things. Knowing how you learn can help you take control of situations and develop further in learning or employment situations. Tick box A B or C for each question that most represents how you generally behave. ABC 1When I operate new equipment I generally:* A B CRead the instructions first Listen to an explanation from someone who has used it before Go ahead and have a go, I can figure it out as I use it 2When I need directions for travelling I usually:* A B CLook at a map Ask for spoken directions Follow my nose and maybe use a compass 3When I cook a new dish I like to:* A B CFollow a written recipe Call a friend for an explanation Follow my instincts, testing as I cook 4If I am teaching someone something new I tend to:* A B CWrite instructions down for them Give them a verbal explanation Demonstrate first and then let them have a go 5I tend to say:* A B CWatch how I do it Listen to me explain You have a go 6During my free time I most enjoy;* A B CGoing to museums and art galleries Listening to music and talking to my friends Playing sport or doing DIY 7When I go shopping for clothes I tend to:* A B CImagine what they would look like on Discuss them with the shop staff Try them on and test them out A B C 8When I am choosing a holiday I usually: Read lots of brochures Listen to recommendations from friends Imagine what it would be like to be there ABC * 9If I was buying a new car I would:* A B CRead reviews in newspapers and magazines Discuss what I need with my friends Test drive lots of different types 10When I am learning a new skill I am most comfortable:* A B CWatching what the teacher is doing Talking through with my teacher exactly what I am supposed to do Giving it a try myself and work it out as I go 11If I am choosing food from a menu I tend to:* A B CImagine what the food will look like Talk through the options in my head or with my partner Imagine what the food will taste like 12When I listen to a band I can’t help:* A B CWatching the band members and other people in the audience Listening to the lyrics and the beats Moving in time with the music 13When I concentrate I most often:* A B CFocus on the words or the pictures in front of me Discuss the problem and the possible solutions in my head Move around a lot, fiddle with pens and pencils and touch things 14I choose household furnishings because I like:* A B CTheir colours and how they look The descriptions the sales people give me Their textures and what it feels like to touch them 15My first memory is of:* A B CLooking at something Being spoken to Doing something 16When I am anxious I:* A B CVisualise the worst case scenarios Talk over in my head what worries me most Can’t sit still, fiddle and move around constantly A B C 17I feel especially connected to other people because of:* A B CHow they look What they say to me How they make me feel 18When I have to revise for an exam I generally:* A B CWrite lots of revision notes and diagrams Talk over my notes, alone or with other people Imaging make the movement or creating the formula 19If I am explaining to someone I tend to:* A B CShow them what I mean Explain to them in different ways until they understand Encourage them to try and talk them through my idea as they do it 20I really love:* A B CWatching films, photography, looking at art or people watching Listening to music, the radio or talking to friends Taking part in sporting activities, eating fine foods and wines or dancing 21Most of my free time is spent:* A B CWatching television Talking to friends Doing physical activity or making things 22When I first contact a new person I usually:* A B CArrange a face to face meeting Talk to them on the telephone Try to get together whilst doing something else, such as an activity or meal 23I first notice how people:* A B CLook and dress Sound and speak Stand and move 24If I am angry I tend to:* A B CKeep replaying in my mind what has upset me Raise my voice and tell people how I feel Stamp about, slam doors, and physically demonstrate my anger 25I find it easiest to remember:* A B CFaces Names Things I have done ABC 26I think you can tell if someone is lying if:* A B CThey avoid looking at you Their voice changes They give me funny vibes 27When I meet an old friend:* A B CI say ‘it’s great to see you’ I say ‘it’s great to hear from you’ I give them a hug or a handshake 28I remember things best by:* A B CWriting notes or keeping printed details Saying them aloud or repeating words and key points in my head Doing and practising the activity or imagining it being done 29If I have to complain about faulty goods I am most comfortable:* A B CWriting a letter Complaining over the phone Taking the item back to the store or posting it to head office 30I tend to say:* A B CI see what you mean I hear what you are saying I know how you feel Total number of ticks in each column:151203 If you chose mostly A’s you have a VISUAL learning style. If you chose mostly B’s you have an AUDITORY learning style. If you chose mostly C’s you have a KINAESTHETIC learning style. Learning Styles Now I have identified the learning style(s) for a member of my team and myself, and buy Reading the explanations below, we can consider how this will help us to choose the type of Learning that works best for us. People commonly have a main preferred learning style, but This may be part of a blend of all Three. Some people have a very strong preference; other People have a more even mixture of two or less commonly, three styles. Remember, there is no right or wrong learning style. The VAK learning styles model suggests that most people can be divided into one of the Three styles: Someone with a Visual learning style has a preference for seen or observed things, including pictures, diagrams, demonstrations, displays, handouts, films, flip-chart, etc. These people will use phrases such as ‘show me’, ‘let’s have a look at that’ and will be best able to perform a new task after reading the instructions or watching someone else do it first. ?These are the people who will work from lists and written directions and instructions. ?Someone with an Auditory learning style has a preference for the transfer of information through listening: to the spoken word, of self or others, of sounds and noises. These people will use phrases such as ‘tell me’, ‘let’s talk it over’ and will be best able to perform a new task after listening to instructions from an expert. ?These are the people who are happy being given spoken instructions over the telephone, and can remember all the words to songs that they hear! ?Someone with a Kinesthetic learning style has a preference for physical experience touching, feeling, holding, doing, practical hands-on experiences. These people will use phrases such as ‘let me try’, ‘how do you feel? ’ and will be best able to perform a new task by going ahead and trying it out, learning as they go. These are the people who like to experiment, hands-on, and never look at the instructions first! AC 1. 2 Use a simple technique for identifying own development needs and the development needs of another member of the team. It is very important for any organization to identify your own development needs and the Development needs of your team, and the development of all individuals at all levels. In The section below I have looked at a couple of ways you can identify the skills and Knowledge required for successfully delivering as well as providing the training and Development required for both me and that of another member of my team. Of course there are training and development texts that cover this subject in much more Detail, it is best to start with an analysis of the training and development that is required. The Starting point and the subsequent steps can be represented in ‘The Training Cycle’ or ‘The Systematic approach to Training and Development’. This is a widely recognised and used Model of the processes involved in professional development. When setting any objectives for training we should be using the standard management Practice of using SMART objectives. SYou will notice that the objectives are specific in that they explain a number of individual tasks. MThey are measurable in that you can determine if the tasks have been completed by checking against the targets, e. g. 2000 words, four bridges, grid reference, and so on. AThey are achievable in that resources are available to complete the task. For example, is there sufficient time for completion and does the candidate have access to a computer? RThey should be realistic. Clearly any task to be set at an appropriate level and be relevant to the development of the individual. We have to ask whether the person presently has the skills to carry out what we are expecting, does he/she need training or can they learn by on the job training. TFinally, the task should be time-bound in that you have to set time targets for completion, and possibly for reviewing progress. If you are able to set SMART objectives it makes the job of evaluation and review much easier. Identify the need The need for staff training can be identified in a number of ways, such as during interviews, Through feedback from colleagues, by competence or knowledge tests, by observing work Taking place, or from appraisal documents or CVs. Skills and knowledge audits and a SWOT analyses are well-known techniques that can be used for self-assessment as well as For identifying the needs of individuals and groups. Skills and knowledge audit A ‘brainstorming’ session will identify the skills, knowledge and understanding required to Carry out a particular task. To help me identify my own development needs I used the table On the next page, by comparing my existing skills and knowledge with the recommended Ones helped me to determine the training and development needs I could need. SKILLSLevel requiredCurrent levelDevelopment needs Project designDegree or HNC level management and review Supervisory management plus some specific project trainingILM Level 3 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management Planning and reviewingManagement Level 2 S/NVQManagement Level 2 S/NVQAs above Staff managementManagement Level 2 S/NVQManagement Level 2 S/NVQNone required Team briefingManagement Level 2 S/NVQManagement Level 2 S/NVQAs above Effective presentationAbility to present projects to community groupsNot confident in presenting to groupsILM Level 3 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management Report writingProfessional quality reportsAlready presents high quality reportsNone required Assessment skillsVocational Assessor AwardHolds Skills Assessor AwardTo work towards the D33 Team skillsManagement Level 2 S/NVQManagement Level 2 S/NVQNone required Training of trainers3- to 4-day courseAlready holds three relevant training unitsNone required KNOWLEDGELevel requiredCurrent levelDevelopment needs Managemen t of Health and SafetyIOSH levelAlready holds IOSH and has attended specific trainingNone required Safety in Housekeeping legislationIOSH levelAs aboveAs above Employment legislationManagement Level 2 S/NVQManagement Level 2 S/NVQUpdating courses when available Appraisal system and how it worksSpecific knowledge and use of the systemHas carried out appraisals in other organisationsSpecific coaching only required Environmental legislationFull knowledge of relevant environmental legislationHas full knowledge through personal researchNone required Do not be over specific about each and every aspect of the job, and do not use vague Expressions: communication skills, for example, may cover questioning, listening and talking To a group. You should attempt to be as clear and concise as possible about the skill or Knowledge required. To help me identify the development needs of a member of my team I used a SWOT Analysis, this is a simple self-assessment tool and is the SWOT analysis or analysis of STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES and THREATS. This can be used on its own or with the skills and knowledge analysis. It is good technique For helping staff identify their own training needs with or without support. My Team leader StrengthsWeaknesses Has a strong background in supervisory management techniques.? Has not worked to any degree with groups of manual workers. ? Has used a pc competently in previous jobs.? Is unfamiliar with project management software. ? Has an IOSH Certificate.? Health and safety training did not cover everything needed for this roll. OpportunitiesThreats ? There will be a number of candidates selected for a higher level qualification in supervision? Lack of supervision / management skills can hamper progress. ? Growth in the path industry may mean that there are more higher level jobs available.? Other candidates may have worked with manual workers – I need to improve my leadership skills. Using the SWOT analysis has helped us to see some of the development areas my team Leader needs, and from this I can help by finding the right course to help in his development. AC 1. 3 Identify potential barriers to learning Workplace learning is the process of gaining relevant skills and knowledge at work, either Informally as you gain experience or formally through structured training. Barriers to Workplace learning are factors that slow down the process, misdirect it or prevent it from Happening. These factors differ from one type of job to another. Misdirection If your goal is to achieve long-term success in your field, you need to learn new skills and Abilities on an ongoing basis. A sales professional must improve his closing techniques and His understanding of customer psychology, while an information technology specialist needs To keep up with new technological developments. One potential barrier to effective Workplace learning is that you may learn something that provides a short-term advantage But actually works against your long-term professional development. For example, if you Learn how to close just enough sales to meet your quota consistently, this may discourage You from learning the sales techniques that would substantially improve your close rate. Stagnation Another barrier to workplace learning is getting caught in a rut. If the work you do is not Mentally stimulating or challenging, you may not continue to improve on the job. Company Culture also can have a big impact on whether employees keep growing and learning or Whether their skills and motivation stagnate. If you believe your supervisors arent interested In hearing what you have to say, wont listen to concerns you have and dont welcome your Questions, you wont keep learning and improving. Companies that foster an open culture Are less likely to have this problem. Obfuscation Effective learning often depends on effective teaching, but not all teachers are equally skilled Or willing. Many workplace skills are best learned from an expert, and experts are not Always readily available. Some co-workers who do have genuine expertise are not willing to Share it openly. For instance, the companys best programmer might be worried that if he Teaches new employees all the tricks of his trade, his own value to the organization will Decline and he could lose his position. Teaching materials such as training videos or Instructional manuals may be poorly explained, confusing or limited. Companies can Overcome these issues by rewarding employees who mentor others and ensuring that there Are adequate materials on hand to facilitate learning? Access Depending on the type of business, the employees may face problems outside of the Workplace that interfere with their ability to learn in the workplace. Low-skilled employees Often are eager to obtain training to improve their job skills, but they sometimes face Complex life situations that make this difficult. This can include obligations to family Members, lack of free time to engage in additional training, medical problems and lack of Funds to pay for any training the employer does not provide. Anything the company can do To make training more accessible and flexible can alleviate this problem. This is just a few of the potential barriers to learning and I have explained these in a bit more Detail, below is a small list of some others, this list is again only a short list there are possibly Many more. Employee learning not seen as critical to business success Identifying and analysing true learning needs is time consuming Employees reluctant to take the time out to learn and develop Available learning not seen as specific enough to job roles and company strategy Learning doesn’t deliver tangible benefit Learning solutions simply don’t deliver No observed behavioral change Learning solutions are costly and risky AC 1. 4 Explain how barriers to learning can be overcome Overcoming barriers to success involves assessing the situation, consulting experts, Considering alternatives and taking action. To manage your career effectively, you need to Take charge of your own development. By assessing your own skills, getting advice from Others, learning new skills and making informed decisions, you can achieve your goals. Overcoming challenges and setbacks usually requires a positive attitude, as well as Dedication and commitment. Feedback To communicate more effectively and overcome objections, start by collecting information About the problem at hand. Avoid misinterpretation, misunderstanding and mistakes by Assembling all the facts. Depending on the situation, you can conduct surveys, run focus Groups or simply start a conversation with a colleague. Listen carefully and pay attention to The subtle nuances of what people say. Then take action to use the feedback and address The problem, tell people what you did, evaluate the outcome and refine your approach if Necessary. For example, to improve your chances of getting a new position, ask a friend or Colleague to review your resume and cover letter. Does it reflect your skills and knowledge In the best manner? Make modifications based on their feedback and submit your Application. Join a professional organization in your industry to network with other business Professionals. By making new contacts, you can learn about new opportunities to use your Unique skills and experience. Change Barriers to change include reluctance to part with old ways, sadness and regret associated With loss, and fear of the unknown. Managing change effectively and overcoming these Obstacles involve setting a clear course for the future and establishing realistic goals. Recognize that change can be disruptive. Then commit to the transition and form new Strategies. For example, once you decide that you want to pursue a new a career in a Higher-paying field, get the training and experience you need to succeed, according to your Budget and time availability. Define goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic And time constrained. For example, if you want to pursue a career in health services, you Might aim to complete your bachelor’s degree and earn a nursing degree in the next six Years by participating in an online university program. Decision Making Barriers to success often involve an inability to make good choices. Learning how to Evaluate options efficiently can help you ensure career success. Sometimes you need to Make a quick decision without consulting others to ensure your safety and well being. Other Times, get input from other people you trust to help you make an informed decision about The next step to take in your development. When you work on a team, there may be times When the group needs to collaborate to make a choice that impacts everyone. This can take Time but the results are typically beneficial in the long run. When you don’t have time or the Outcome doesn’t really matter to you, delegate decision making to a subordinate to keep Processes flowing smoothly. This might include tasks such as approving travel expenses That are under a certain amount. Productivity When your goals don’t align with those of your company, your motivation and desire to Perform decrease. Ensure that you fully understand your companys strategic objective, Mission and values so that you can position yourself appropriately. Examine your work Habits. Manage your work day effectively to achieve your short and long-term goals. For use Online time management tools to focus your attention on the task at hand and complete Work in short segments. Managing your own productivity tends to improve your long-term Success. Section 2: Know how to develop self and others to achieve organisational objectives AC 2. 1 Briefly analyse learning/development options to meet need(s) of Self and another member of the team.

Automobile Industry, India Automobile Industry Essay Example for Free

Automobile Industry, India Automobile Industry Essay Following Indias growing openness, the arrival of new and existing models, easy availability of finance at relatively low rate of interest and price discounts offered by the dealers and manufacturers all have stirred the demand for vehicles and a strong growth of the Indian automobile industry. The data obtained from ministry of commerce and industry, shows high growth obtained since 2001- 02 in automobile production continuing in the first three quarters of the 2004-05. Annual growth was 16. 0 per cent in April-December, 2004; the growth rate in 2003-04 was 15. 1 per cent The automobile industry grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22 per cent between 1992 and 1997. With investment exceeding Rs. 50,000 crore, the turnover of the automobile industry exceeded Rs. 59,518 crore in 2002-03. Including turnover of the auto-component sector, the automotive industrys turnover, which was above Rs. 84,000 crore in 2002-03, is estimated to have exceeded Rs. 1,00,000 crore ( USD 22. 74 billion) in 2003-04. Automobile Dealers Network in India In terms of Car dealer networks and authorized service stations, Maruti leads the pack with Dealer networks and workshops across the country. The other leading automobile manufactures are also trying to cope up and are opening their service stations and dealer workshops in all the metros and major cities of the country. Dealers offer varying kind of discount of finances who in tern pass it on to the customers in the form of reduced interest rates. Major Manufacturers in Automobile Industry Maruti Udyog Ltd. General Motors India Ford India Ltd. Eicher Motors Bajaj Auto Daewoo Motors India Hero Motors Hindustan Motors Hyundai Motor India Ltd. Royal Enfield Motors Telco TVS Motors DC Designs Swaraj Mazda Ltd Government has liberalized the norms for foreign investment and import of technology and that appears to have benefited the automobile sector. The production of total vehicles increased from 4. 2 million in 1998- 99 to 7. 3 million in 2003-04. It is likely that the production of such vehicles will exceed 10 million in the next couple of years. The industry has adopted the global standards and this was manifested in the increasing exports of the sector. After a temporary slump during 1998- 99 and 1999-00, such exports registered robust growth rates of well over 50 per cent in 2002-03 and 2003-04 each to exceed two and- a-half times the export figure for 2001-02. Automobile Export Numbers Category1998-991998-99Passenger Car25468121478Multi Utility Vehicles26543892Commercial Vehicles1010819931Two Wheelers100002256765Three Wheelers2113851535Percentage Growth-16. 632. 8 THE KEY FACTORS BEHIND THIS UPSWING Sales incentives, introduction of new models as well as variants coupled with easy availability of low cost finance with comfortable repayment options continued to drive demand and sales of automobiles during the first two quarters of the current year. The risk of an increase in the interest rates, the impact of delayed monsoons on rural demand, and increase in the costs of inputs such as steel are the key concerns for the players in the industry. As the players continue to introduce new models and variants, the competition may intensify further. The ability of the players to contain costs and focus on exports will be critical for the performance of their respective companies. The auto component sector has also posted significant growth of 20 per cent in 2003-04, to achieve a sales turnover of Rs. 30,640 crore (US$ 6. 7 billion). Further, there is a potential for higher growth due to outsourcing activities by global automobiles giants. Today, this sector has emerged as another sunrise sector. EVEN GROWTH Opposing the belief that the growth in automobile industry has catered only to the top income-stratum of society, Growth of exports of 32. 8 % in the first three quarters of 2004-05, the fastest growth in volumes has come from commercial vehicles as against passenger cars. Between 1998-99 and 2003-04, output of commercial vehicles has grown 2. 8 times compared to the 2. 2 times increase in passenger cars. Furthermore, two-wheeler output continues to dominate the volume statistics of the sector. In 2003-04, for every passenger car turned out by the sector, there were 7 two-wheelers produced. In the two wheeler segment, there is a greater preference for motorcycles followed by scooters, with both production and domestic sales of motorcycles increasing at faster rates than for scooters in the current and previous years. However, mopeds have registered low or negative growth. Export growth rates have been high both for motorcycles and scooters.

Properties of Water for Organism Survival

Properties of Water for Organism Survival NDUI PRISCILLAH Discuss the assertion that water has several unique properties that make it vital not only for human beings, but for all living organisms to survive. Introduction Water is a very important aspect of all living organisms’ plants and animals alike. What makes it so useful and relevant to survival are its unique properties which relate to its functions and hence its relevance to living things as discussed below. Water is a dipolar molecule Water is a normal oxide of hydrogen consisting of two hydrogen molecules covalently bonded to one oxygen molecule. The water molecule is not linear and the oxygen atom has higher electro negativity than the hydrogen atoms. The atoms of oxygen carry a slightly negative charge whereas, the hydrogen atoms are slightly positive, this gives the water molecule its dipole movement (en.wikipedia.org). Hence, the water molecule can form up to four bonds with it self and other molecules. This property gives water most of its properties. Water is a Universal solvent A solvent is a liquid which dissolves other substances. Because of its ability to form four bond with other molecules (dipole), no other chemically inert solvent is able to dissolve a variety of materials as water nor the amount of them it can hold in solution (Edward J.K 1996). Water is able to dissolve a variety of substances solids, liquids and gases alike. (Edward, 1999) adds on to say â€Å"water is the best solvent and provides a medium for the movement of molecules within and outside the cell.† hence water is important in both plants and animals in that it aids movement of materials through diffusion as salts, sugars acids, alkalis and gases such as carbon dioxide (carbonation) and oxygen dissolve in it and can be transported in the organism as a transport medium as in blood, lymphatic and excretory system, the alimentary canal and xylem and phloem (Taylor D.J 1984). Water is wet Because of its molecules forming hydrogen bonds with other polar molecules, water makes things wet. This is due to its cohesive and adhesive properties (Dr. Jain VK, 1974). Cohesion is the attraction between like molecules in this case water while adhesion is the attraction of molecules of different substances. This gives water high capillary forces, that is the tendency of water to move up a narrow tube against the concentration gradient. This is a very important property to vascular plants such as trees as it enables water to move along very narrow spaces such as during transpiration which help control the temperature of a plant. Its cohesion property is also relevant in cells and in translocation of water through xylem in plants. This is also vital in the rising or moving up of sap in plants. Surface tension The cohesive property of water brings about surface tension. Besides mercury, water has the greatest tendency to cohere causing its surface to contract to the smallest possible areas as a result of the hydrogen bonds (Edward J.K, 1996), because of this many small organisms are able to settle on water or skate over its surface, thus providing them a habitat, for example the water striders. It also aids reproduction by way of seed dispersal, garmetes and larval stages of aquatic organisms. Water has a high specific heat capacity The specific heat capacity of water is the amount of heat required to raise one (1) gram of water from O0C to 10C. Compared to other liquids a considerably high amount of energy is required to change the temperature of water (Edward J.K, 1996). This property is also due to the numerous hydrogen bonds between water molecules. This is very vital to both humans and plants as it helps in moderating the earth’s climate by buffering large fluctuations in temperature. It also protects the plants from very harmful temperature fluctuations. High specific heat capacity of water is also vital to marine and fresh bodies of water to help maintain a constant temperature over longer period of time and to be stable over short periods of time. Latent heat of vaporization Vaporization or evaporation is the change of state from liquid to gas. The latent heat of vaporization is the energy required to convert a liquid into gas (Vapour) at constant temperature (Dr V.K Jain, 1974). Water has the highest latent heat of vapourisation of all common substances which is about 44 Kj/Mol at 250C. The high latent heat of vaporization of water enables the plants to cool themselves by giving out heat through transpiration. It is also a major factor in the transfer of heat between the ocean and the atmosphere, thereby driving the weather climate. Beside these, animals also use this property in cooling by the sweating and panting in mammals. That is, the opening of the mouth by some reptile’s e.g crocodiles in sunshine and mammals like dogs. Latent heat of fusion Latent heat of fusion is the heat required to convert a unit of mass of a solid to liquid at the same temperature. To melt 1gram of ice at 00C, 80cal. (335J) of energy is needed which is very high and caused by the presence of hydrogen bonds. This means water must loose a relatively huge amount of heat energy to freeze. This helps protect the contents of the cells not to be damaged as their environments are less likely to freeze. Water expansion and density One of the unique properties of water is that, it reaches its maximum density at 40C and diminishes above and below that temperature. It has a tendency to expand as it freezes and its density is decreased (Dr. Jain V.K, 1974), hence ice has a lower density than water and floats on top of oceans, lakes and rivers. It forms at the surface first and last at the bottom, this provides insulation of the water below it and increase the chances of survival for acquatic organisms especially in cold climates and during cold seasons. Penetration of light Water which has no suspended particles is transparent in the visible electro magnetic spectrum. This implies relatively great amounts of infrared and ultra-violet rays can penetrate through it. This enables acquatic plants to survive as they are able to carry out photosynthesis. It can therefore be deducted that water indeed has several unique properties related to its importance to all living organism without which most of these might become extinct. Besides these water provides a habitat for millions of living organisms and is also vital in sanitation for human beings helping to prevent the spread of infections such as viruses, protozoa and worms. Hence, water is a very vital aspect without which life might not exist. BIBLIOGRAPHY Edward J.K (1996), Concepts of Ecology; fourth edition. Pearson Education. New Jersey. en. Wikipedia.org/wiki/water Dr. Jain V.K (1974), fundamentals of Plant Physiology; S. Chand and Company Ltd. New Dhehi Taylor D.J et al (1984), Biological Science 1 2, Cambridge University Press. New York.

Abortion: Women Need a Choice :: Argumentative

Our Nation was built on the ideas of freedom and independence. With that concept, I believe that our government needs to trust that women have the capability to choose what is best for their future. Our society should respect women’s independence and grant them the freedom to decide what is right. This issue is important to me because history has shown that restricting abortions, not only undermines women, but can also be very dangerous.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  I believe that the government should not be able to control what a woman does with her body. By granting women the right to choose, this does not permit her to kill, but to decide what is best for all persons involved. There are many situations that show that abortion may be the best for the parents and the unborn child. Situations such as rape or incest prove that it is not the woman’s fault and not fair to the mother or the unborn child to pay for it. There are other situations such as if the mother carries a disease the can be passed on, or if the parents are unfit to raise a family at the time. Any case however, should be between the people involved and not the government.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the past, there have been many cases when abortions were restricted, and women went ahead to find other ways to get it done. They were forced to have it done in unsafe alleys by complete strangers. By legalizing abortions, it has made conditions much safer for women. I think mentally, it has strengthened women in many ways; they can now confront their problems and have options to choose from, and not have to hide their mistakes.

Titanic :: essays research papers

<a href="http://www.geocities.com/vaksam/">Sam Vaknin's Psychology, Philosophy, Economics and Foreign Affairs Web Sites The film "Titanic" is riddled with moral dilemmas. In one of the scenes, the owner of Star Line, the shipping company that owned the now-sinking Unsinkable, joins a lowered life-boat. The tortured expression on his face demonstrates that even he experiences more than unease at his own conduct. Prior to the disaster, he instructs the captain to adopt a policy dangerous to the ship. Indeed, it proves fatal. A complicating factor was the fact that only women and children were allowed by the officers in charge into the lifeboats. Another was the discrimination against Third Class passengers. The boats sufficed only to half the number of those on board and the First Class, High Society passengers were preferred over the Low-Life immigrants under deck. Why do we all feel that the owner should have stayed on and faced his inevitable death? Because we judge him responsible for the demise of the ship. Additionally, his wrong instructions – motivated by greed and the pursuit of celebrity – were a crucial contributing factor. The owner should have been punished (in his future) for things that he has done (in his past). This is intuitively appealing. Would we have rendered the same judgement had the Titanic’s fate been the outcome of accident and accident alone? If the owner of the ship could have had no control over the circumstances of its horrible ending – would we have still condemned him for saving his life? Less severely, perhaps. So, the fact that a moral entity has ACTED (or omitted, or refrained from acting) in its past is essential in dispensing with future rewards or punishments. The "product liability" approach also fits here. The owner (and his "long arms": manufacturer, engineers, builders, etc.) of the Titanic were deemed responsible because they implicitly contracted with their passengers. They made a representation (which was explicit in their case but is implicit in most others): "This ship was constructed with knowledge and forethought. The best design was employed to avoid danger. The best materials to increase pleasure." That the Titanic sank was an irreversible breach of this contract. In a way, it was an act of abrogation of duties and obligations. The owner/manufacturer of a product must compensate the consumers should his product harm them in any manner that they were not explicitly, clearly, visibly and repeatedly warned against.

Choosing the Right Application of Multiple Intelligence Theory Essay

Throughout the last fifty years, educators have debated what methods of teaching are most effective. These methods include many extremes, from the more traditional method of teaching, in which teachers lecture, students listen, and are expected to learn, to experiential education, which usually requires students to take a hands on approach to every lesson. Both of these extreme methods have too specific of an approach. A combination of learning styles, or multiple intelligences, is required to teach successfully. The introduction of the multiple intelligence theory has positively benefitted teaching by encouraging educators to stimulate each student’s learning strength everyday; regardless of the traditional teaching methods more commonly used. The multiple intelligence theory was created by Howard Gardner, and has been summarized nicely by McCain and Weiten (2004). â€Å"He suggests the existence of a number of relatively autonomous human intelligences. To build his list of separate intelligences, Gardner reviewed the evidence on cognitive capacities in normal individuals, people suffering from brain damage, and special populations, such as prodigies and idiot savants. He concluded that humans exhibit eight intelligences: logical-mathematical, linguistic, musical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalist† (p. 380). Mr. Gardner has made efforts to prove that every student learns his or her own way. He says that, â€Å"Students learn in ways that are identifiably distinctive. The broad spectrum of students, and perhaps the society as a whole, would be better served if disciplines could be presented in a number of ways and learning could be assessed through a variety of means.† (Gardner, 1991, p.... ...sate for their weaker skills, with their stronger ones. Educators debating whether to use the multiple intelligence theory need to consider that â€Å"it involves creating rich experiences in which students with different intelligence profiles can interact with the materials and ideas using their particular combinations of strengths and weaknesses.† (Moran, Kornhaber, & Gardner, 2006, p. 27). The Key School in Indiana believes that all children should have his or her type of intelligence aroused every day (Gardner, 1991, p. 215). Completing a school day knowing that students will have all had a chance to feel like successful learners must be a goal that educators strive to achieve. This is a belief that would allow all learning pieces in a child’s mind to be stimulated, every day. This also builds students into being the most multi-faceted individuals possible.

Amish`

BIOGRAPHY OF MAHATMA PHULE by Dr. Y. D. Phadke. for the bo†¦ http://www. dalitstan. org/books/slavery/slavry_b. html 1 of 6 6/23/2005 1:02 PM ——- O ——- Slavery by Mahatma Phule ——- O ——- Biography of Mahatma Phule Dr. Y. D. Phadke. [This brief Life Sketch of Mahatma Jotirao Phule is written by the noted the scholar Dr. Y. D. Phadke. He is the editor of the Collected Words of Mahatma Phule in Marathi. He is also an eminent scholar of Mahatma Phule and the Satyashodhak Movement. ] JOTIRAO GOVINDRAO PHULE occupies a unique position among the social reformers of Maharashtra in the nineteenth century.While other reformers concentrated more on reforming the social institutions of amily and marriage with special emphasis on the status and right of women, Jotirao Phule revolted against the unjust caste system under which millions of people had suffered for centuries. In particular, he courageously upheld the cause of the untouchabl es and look up the cudgels for the poorer peasants. He was a militant advocate of their right. The story of his stormy life is an inspiring saga of a continuous struggle whih he waged relentlessly against the forces of reaction.Though some keen observers of the social scene in Maharashtra like Narayan Mahadeo Parmananda did acknowledge his greatness in his lifetime, it is only in is only in recent decades that there is increasing appreciation of his service and sacrifice in uplifting the masses. Jotirao Phule was born in 1827. His father, Govindrao was a vegetable-vendor at Poona. Originally Jotirao's family known as Gorhays, came from Katgun, a village in the Satara district of Maharashtra, His grandfather Shetiba Gorhay settled down in Poona. Since Jotirao's father and two uncles served as florists under the last of the Peshwas, they came to be known as `Phule'.Jotirao's mother passed away when he was hardly one year old. After completing his primary education, Jotirao had to leav e the school and help his father by working on the family's farm. Jotirao's marriage was celebrated when he was not even thirteen. Impressed by Jotirao's intelligence and his love of knowledge two of his neighbours, one a Muslim teachr and another a Christian gentleman persuaded his father Govindrao to allow him to study in a secondary school. In 1841, got admission in the Scottish Mission's High School at Poona. It was in his this school that he met SadashivBIOGRAPHY OF MAHATMA PHULE by Dr.Y. D. Phadke. for the bo†¦ http://www. dalitstan. org/books/slavery/slavry_b. html 2 of 6 6/23/2005 1:02 PM Ballal Govande, a Brahmin, who remained a close friend throughout his life. Both Jotirao and Govande were greatly influenced by Thomas Paine's ideas and they read with great interest Paine's famous book ‘The Rights of Man. ‘ Moro Vithal Valvekar and Sakharam Yashwant Paranjapye were two other Brahmin friends of Jotirao who in later years stood by him in all his activities. After completing his secondary education in 1847 Jotirao decided not to accept a job under the Government.An incident in 1848 made him aware of the iniquities of the caste system, the predominant position of the Brahmin in the social setup. He was invited to attend a wedding of one of his Brahmin friends. As the bridegroom was taken in a procession, Jotirao accompanied him along with the relatives of his Brahmin friends. Knowing that Jotirao belonged to the Mil caste which was considered to be inferior by the Brahmins, the relatives of the bridegroom insulted and abused him. Jotirao left the procession and retuned home. With tears in his eyes, he narrated his experience to his father who tried to pacify him.After this incident Jotirao made up his mind to defy the caste-system and serve the Shudras and women who were deprived of all their rights as human beings under the caste-system. Education of women and the lower castes, he believed, deserved priority, Hence he began educating hi s wife Savitribai and opened a girls' school in August 1848. The orthodox opponents of Jotirao were furious and they started a vicious campaign against him. He refused to be unnerved by their malicious propaganda. As no teacher dared to work in a which untouchable were admitted as students, Jotirao asked his wife to teach the girls in his school.Stones and brickbats were thrown at her when she was on her way to the school. The reactionaries threatened Jotirao's father with dire consequences if he did not dissociate himself Yielding to the pressure, Jotirao's father asked his son and the daughter in-law to leave his house as both of them refused to give up their noble endeavor. Though the school had to be closed for sometime due to lack of funds, Jotirao re-opened it with the help of his Brahmin friends Govande and Valvekar. On 3 July 1851, he founded a girls' school in which eight girls were admittedon the first day. Steadily the number of student increased.Savitribai taught in this school also and had to suffer a lot because of hostility of the orthodox people. Jotirao opened two more girl's schools during 1851-52 in a memorial addressed to the Education Commission (popularly known as the Hunter Commission ) in 1882, he described his activities in the field of education, ` A year after the institution of the female school I also established and indigenous mixed school for the lower classes, especially the Mahars and Mangs. Tow more school for these classes were subsequently added. I continued to work in them for nearly nine to ten years'.Jotirao was aware that primary education among the masses in the Bombay Presidency was very much neglected. He argued that ‘a good deal of their poverty,BIOGRAPHY OF MAHATMA PHULE by Dr. Y. D. Phadke. for the bo†¦ http://www. dalitstan. org/books/slavery/slavry_b. html 3 of 6 6/23/2005 1:02 PM their want of self-reliance, their entire dependence upon the learned and intelligent classes' could be attribute to the Br itish Government for spending profusely a lar portion of revenue on the education of the higher classes. According to him. this policy resulted in the virtual monopoly of all the higher offices under the Government by the Brahmins.Jotirao boldly attacked the stranglehold of the Brahmins, who prevented others from having access to all the avenues of Knowledge and influence. He denounced them as cheats and hypocrites. He asked the masses to resist the tyranny of the Brahmins. All his writings were variation on this theme. His critics made fun of his ignorance of grammar and philology, his inelegant language and far-fetched interpretation of Indian history and the ancient texts. They brushed his criticism aside by saying that he was merely echoing what the Christian missionaries had said about the Indian society in general and Brahmin in particular.The established scholars in his time did not take Phule's arguments seriously. His critics did not realise that Jotirao's acrimonious criti cism was basically a spontaneous outburst of a genuine concern for the equal rights of human beings Emotionally he was so deeply involved in his work that he could not make a dispassionate analysis and take a detached view of the social forces. Jotirao's deep sense of commitment to basic human values made it difficult for him to restrain himself when he witnessed injustice and atrocities committed in the name of religion by those who were supposed to be its custodians.Widow remarriages were banned and child-marriage was very common among the Brahmin and other upper castes in the then Hindu society. Many widows were young and not all of them could live in a manner in which the orthodox people expected them to live. Some of the delinquent widows resorted to abortion or left their illegitimate children to their fate by leaving them on the streets. Out of pity for the orphans, jotirao Phule established an orphanage, possible the first such institution founded by a Hindu. Jotirao gave pr otection to pregnant widows and assured them that the orphanage would take care of their children.It was in this orphanage run by Jotirao that a Brahmin widow gave birth to a boy in 1873 and Jotirao adopted him as his son. For sometime, Jotirao worked as a contractor for the government and supplied building material required for the construction of a huge barrage at Khadakvasala near Poona. He had a direct experience of working with the officials of the Public Works Department which was notorious as a hotbed of corruption. Except the British officers holding very high positions in the Department. the clerks and other officers were invariably Brahmin and they exploited the illiterate workers.Jotirao felt in necessary to explain to the workers how they were duped by the Brahmin officials . in one of the ballads composed by him, he described vividly the fraudulent practices resorted to by the Brahmin officials in the Public Works Department (printed at the end of `Slavery')BIOGRAPHY OF MAHATMA PHULE by Dr. Y. D. Phadke. for the bo†¦ http://www. dalitstan. org/books/slavery/slavry_b. html 4 of 6 6/23/2005 1:02 PM In 1868, Jotirao decided to give access to the untouchables to small bathing tank mere his house.In his controversial book called Slavery published in June 1873, Jotirao included a manifesto which declared that he was willing to dine with all regardless of their caste, creed or country of origin. It is significant that several newspapers refused to give publicity to the manifesto because of its contents. His book Slavery was severely criticised for its `venomous propaganda' against the Brahmins. Jotio dedicated this book `to the good people of the United States as a token of admiration for their sublime, disinterested and self sacrificing devotion in the cause of Negro Slavery'. The book is written in the form of a dialogue.After tracing the history of the Brahmin domination in India, Jotirao examined the motives and objects of cruel and inhuman laws framed by the brahmins. Their main object in fabricating these fasehoods was to dupe the minds of the ignorant and rivet firmly on them the chains of perpetual bondage and slavery which their selfishness and cunning had forged, The severity of the laws as affecting the Sudras and the intense hatred with which they were regarded by the Brahmins can be explained on no other supposition but that there was, originally between the two, a deadly feud arising from the advent of the latter in to this land.Jotirao argued that the sudras were the sons of the soil while the Brahmins came from outside and usurped everything that was possessed by the `not one hundredth part of the rogueries' that were generally practsed on his `poor, illiterate and ignorant Sudra brethren'. On 24 September 1873 , Jotirao convened a meeting of his followers and admirers and it was decided to form the ‘Satya Shodhak Samaj' (Society of Seekers of Truth) with Jotirao as its first president and treasurer. Ever y member had to take pledge of loyalty to the British Empire.The main objectives of the organisation were to liberate the Shudras and Ati Shudras and to prevent their exploitation by the Brahmins. All the members of the Satya Shodhak Samaj were expected to treat all human being as children of God and worship the Creator without the help of any mediator. Membership was open to all and the available evidence proves that some Jews were admitted as members. In 1876. Jotirao refused to regard the Vedas as sacrosanct. He opposed idolatry and denounced the chaturvarnya. In his book Sarvajanik Satya Dharma Pustak published in 1891, his views on religious and social issues are given in the form of f dialogue.According to him,both men and women were entitled to enjoy equal rights and it was a sin to discriminate between human being on the basis of sex. He stressed the unity of man and envisaged a society based on liberty, equality and fraternity. He was aware that religious bigotry and aggres sive natioalism destroy the unity of man. In 1876 Jotirao was nominated as a member of the Poona Municipality, He tried to help the people in the famine-stricken areas of Maharashtra when a severe famine in 1877 forced people in the rural area to leave their villages.Some of them had to leave their children behind and appeal issued on 17 May 1877 by Jotirao indicates that theBIOGRAPHY OF MAHATMA PHULE by Dr. Y. D. Phadke. for the bo†¦ http://www. dalitstan. org/books/slavery/slavry_b. html 5 of 6 6/23/2005 1:02 PM Victoria Orphanage was founded under the auspices of the Satya Shodhak Samaj to took after these unfortunate children. From the beginning of the year 1879 Krishnarao Bhalekar, one of his colleagues, edited a weekly called Deenbandhu which was the organ f the Satya Shodhak Samaj.The weekly articulated the grievances of the peasants and workers. Deenbandhu defended Jotirao when Vishnushastri Chiplunkar, a powerful spokesmen of the conservative nationalists, attacked Jot irao's writing in the most vitriolic style. Narayan Meghaji Lokhande was another prominent colleague of Jotirao, Lokhande is acclaimed as the Father of Trade Union Movement in India From 1880 onward, he look over the management of Deenbabdhu which published from Bombay. Along with Lokhande. Jotirao also addressed the meetings of the textile workers in Bombay.It is significant that before and his colleagues Bhalekar and Lokhande tried to organise the peasants and the workers, no such attempt was made by any organisation to redress their grievances. One of the charges levelled by Jotirao against the leaders of the Brahmo Samaj and the Prarthana Samaj, the Sarvajanik Sabha and the Indian National Congress was that despite their programmes, in reality, they did very little to improve the lot of the masses. He felt that these organisations were dominated by the Brahmins and were not truly representative in character.In his booklet called Satsara (The Essence of Truth) published in June 1 885, he criticised the Brahmo Samaj and the Prarthana Samaj. Addressing their leaders he declared, ‘We don't need the help of your organisations. Don't worry about us' In his book, Sarvajanik Sabha or the Indian National Congress. He warnhat the persistent demand made by these organisation for Indianisation of the administrative services, if accepted, would lead to Brahminisation of the service in India.He thought that it was difficult to create a sense of nationality so long as the restriction on dining and marrying outside the caste continued to observed by people belonging to different castes. Education of the masses would promote the process of nation-making. It should be remembered that just as Jotirao did not mince words when he criticised the leaders of tormist movement he was equally fearless in criticising the decision of the alien rulers which did not contribute to the welfare of the masses.When the government wanted to grant more licences for liquor-shop, Jotirao co ndemned this move as he believed that addiction to liquor would ruin many poor families. On 30 November 1880, the President of the Poona Municipality requested the members of approve his proposal of spending one thousand rupees on the occasion of the visit of Lord Lytton, the Governor-General of India. The official wanted to present him an address during his visit to Poona. Lytton had passed an Act which resulted in gagging the press and Deenbandhu, the organ of the Satya Shodhak Samaj, had protested against the restriction on the right to freedom of the press.Jotirao did not like the idea of spending the money of the tax- payers in honouring a guest like Lytton. HeBIOGRAPHY OF MAHATMA PHULE by Dr. Y. D. Phadke. for the bo†¦ http://www. dalitstan. org/books/slavery/slavry_b. html 6 of 6 6/23/2005 1:02 PM boldly suggested that the amount could be very well spent on the education of the poor people in poona. He was the only member out of all the thirty-two nominated members of th e Poona Municipality who voted against the official resolution. Another incident also revealed his attachment for the poor easant and his courage in drawing the attention of member of the British royal family to the sufferings of the framers in rural areas, On 2 March 1888, Hari Raoji Chiplunkar, a friend of Jotirao, arranged a function in honour of the Duke and Duchess of Connaught. Dressed like a peasant, Jotirao attended the function and made a speech,. He commented on the rich invitees who displayed their wealth by wearing diamond studded jewellery and warned the visiting dignitaries that the people who had gathered there did not represent India.If the Duke of Connaught was really interested in finding out the condition of the Indian subjects of Her Majesty the Queen of England, Jotirao suggested that the ought to visit some nearby village as well as the areas in the city occupied by the untouchables. He requested the Duke of Connaught who was a gandson of Queen Victoria to conv ey his message to her and made a strong plea to provide education to the poor people, Jotirao's speech created quit a stir. Throughout his life.Jotirao Phule fought for the emancipation of the downtrodden people and the struggle which he launched at a young age ended only when he died on 28 November 18 He was a pioneer in many fields and among his contemporaries he stands out as one who never wavered in his quest for trust for and justice, Thought he was often accused of fomenting hatred between the non Brahmins, very rarely an attempt was made to consider his scathing criticism in a broad perspective.The later generation also took considerable time to understand and appreciate the profound significance of his unflinching espousal of the rights of man remained till the end of his life a major theme of his writings and a goal of his actions. [p. xxii] Dr. Y. D. PHADKE – o o O o o – [ Table of Contents ] [ Preface >> THE END Amish Janie Kiester Mini Ethnography on Amish Dinner Instructor, Michelle Stone, PhD Amish/Mennonite Information: Today there are over 12 different Amish and Mennonite groups in the Shipshawana area. They do not permit electricity or telephones in their homes. By restricting access to television, radio, and telephones, the Amish feel they are better able to keep the modern world from intruding into their home life. The Amish have long preferred farming as a way of life. They feel their lifestyle and their families can best be maintained in a rural environment. While they do not permit the use of tractors in their fields, these traditional Amish groups do use modern farm equipment pulled by teams of horses or mules. These traditional Amish groups do not own or operate automobiles, believing that cars would provide easier access to the ways of the world. You often see their horses and buggies on the streets of Shipshawana. These traditional groups wear plain clothing styles, which has earned them the name â€Å"Plain People†. It is the simple, peaceful lifestyle of these plain people that attracts such a curiosity today. Many wonder how these people can survive in their supposedly backward ways. Well, they're not only surviving – they're thriving. Since 1960, the Amish population in Shipshewana has almost tripled. Their separation from the rest of society actually helps to strengthen their community. Amish children attend Amish one-room school houses through the eighth grade. Amish worship services are held every other week in one of the member's homes. Socializing is an important part of Amish life. The Amish have a strong sense of community spirit, and often come to the aid of those in need. Their barn raisings are a good example and neighbors freely give of their time and their skills to help one another. The Amish are generally private people and often find all the attention and curiosity about their lifestyle disturbing. They believe that the taking of photographs where someone is recognizable is forbidden by the Biblical prohibition against making any ‘graven image. With our society's current interest in restoring ‘family values', much can be learned from studying the Amish way of life. Their devotion to family and community and their strong work ethic are good examples of a much larger society. I was invited to attend the Amish Dinner in the home of J and B Yoder, of Shipshawana on October 16, 2010, at 6:00pm. Six other people were invited to attend this special dinner and I arrived early so I could observe them as they arrived. The home was completely inviting and decorated in wood furniture and homemade furnishings; anyone would be of comfort. Small Amish children could be found running around, lots of women with aprons carrying food dishes to the eating area, even a dog was barking and running about while all this commotion was happening. I talked to Mrs. Yoder, the wife of Mr. Yoder, who is the head of the household. I asked her many questions about being Amish, living with extend family, and what her culture is like on a day to day basis. She excitingly talked about her family and her ideal culture of being Amish. She went on to talk about the huge amounts of work that has to be done each day and each person residing in the home has their own responsibilities. She named a few of hers, including laundry by hand, bathing the 7 young children, making 12 loafs of bread everyday and the cleaning. She laughed at having 4 ovens and it still isn't enough for her family. The powerful leaders in her group are definitely the men. Then use the law of consecration and when someone needs help it is done together as a community in the order of need. If a family needs food, housing, transportation, then they give from within. She comments about being born and raised Amish and that she does not know a life outside it. She does enjoy the family unity the culture provides, the sense of well-being and the quiet lifestyle. The first to arrive was the Adam's Family. There were two adults and two small children. They entered the house with much gratitude and was introduced to Mr. and Mrs. Yoder. The children were brought into the playroom to play with the Amish children. I stood in the doorway to observe the children and noticed the conversation was all about the Amish child's clothing. A Adams, was asking the sweet Amish boy why he had to wear the same out fit as the other Amish boys and men. He even asked if it was his Halloween costume. It was amazing to me that at the age of 5, Alex knew that the clothing was out of his social norm. He also was well aware that this Amish boy was not of his same social group. The Amish boy was very quiet and did not answer the questions he was asked. He sat quietly and played with a hand made wooden truck. C Adams, the older boy pulled out his Nintendo DS System and started playing with it. The Amish boy asked him if it was a calculator. C Adams, showed the Amish boy the video game system and he watched but never took the offer to play it. Mrs. Adams was in the kitchen trying to help but her attempts were turned down by the sweet Amish women. The next to arrive was a black couple. They were not as out going and gracious as the Adam's family. They sat at the table and did not get up and look around or offer any assistance to the Amish women. I walked up to this couple and introduced myself to them. They had just moved to the area and was invited to the dinner by friends. They currently had no knowledge or experience with the Amish and were amazed by their lifestyle. They were anxious to try the delicious food they kept hearing all about. They also commented on never knowing anyone who could live life without cars, electricity etc. The black man did ask if there were black Amish families in the area and Mr. Yoder commented that he did not know of any and that he was sure there were African Americans who partake in his same culture. Once the guests were all arrived, they were all invited to gather into the garage area where there were long tables set up for the dinner. Young girls wore cute aprons and were introduced as our servers for the evening. The group was overall very quiet and full of observation. There were a few babies fussing but other then that you heard very little chatter. Mr. and Mrs. Yoder came out and welcomed everyone formally and asked to say a blessing on the food. This was definitely part of their beliefs and everyone took the gesture kindly. We then sat as the young Amish girls brought platters and platters of food to our tables. Huge amounts of fried chicken, chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, lots of different vegetables, white turkey and ham were available to enjoy. Everyone ate and kept to themselves. The Amish girls were busy running back and forth with new platters of food and pitchers full of fresh lemonade. There was no entertainment of any kind and we very seldom saw the hostesses. It would have been nice if they were around to answer questions or to offer information about their culture to the invited guests. After the main course was cleared and everyone was full with a joyous amount of food, they brought out the pie. There was lots of cheering and excitement. We were allowed 2 pieces and there was about 10 different choices. My husband and I chose 4 different choices and nibbled at each of them. The Amish are definitely known for their delicious pies and bakery items. As the guests slowly left as they finished their deserts. I watched and only a few took their dirty dishes into the kitchen. Those that did, took the time to thank the Yoder family for this special occasion. A couple of the young Amish boys then took a few of the men on a tour of the property. The Amish are definitely a rare social institution of its own. They go against the world and live life like they did a million years ago and survive. No cell phones, no internet, no cars, no electricity, no gasoline, etc. These strict values make the outsider curious of such institution. I heard people say many times, â€Å"I could never live like this, how do they do it? † How do they do it? Many of them don't know anything different and therefore make it much easier to go without something that you never had to begin with. The Amish are a religious group, they are sweet and full of God's spirit. The are a kind people, a family orientated people. They are selfless, always doing service for someone else. I can't help but think what our society would be like with instilled and encouraged amazing values and beliefs. One can still have electricity and be kind, love their families and do selfless acts of service right? I feel that our society would be so much better if somehow we could follow some of the Amish's examples. We all have our own norms, our own religions and beliefs. Watching teenagers text nonstop is something that I fear is a glimpse of our future. Can we survive without materialistic things like a cell phone? How could a teenager's time be spent if he/she weren't loathing in high school gossip 24/7? As an entire society we will never be able to instil such values but within our families and primary groups we can. As parents I feel that we have a huge responsibility and teaching our children high standards and values is of the utmost importance. What would our society be like if teenagers spent the same amount of time studying as they did texting? Amazing! We would have rocket scientists everywhere! Writing this paper gave me some great experience going out of my social comfort zone. I found, however, that it makes a group more likely to socialize if someone opens up first and introduces themselves. It breaks the ice and was much easier then I had thought it would be. I feel my next social event will go better now that I have experienced going out of my comfort zone and introducing myself to strangers first.