Sociology Poverty and Stratification - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 3 Words: 791 Downloads: 7 Date added: 2017/09/17 Category Sociology Essay Type Argumentative essay Did you like this example? Living with a poverty level income is a difficulty facing many people around the world; poverty is a cultural universal, or trait found in every known culture – not an expression of individual differences. The most basic explanation for this is the trend towards social stratification, the system by which society organizes itself into a hierarchy. In some cultures this is manifest in the form of a caste system in which people who are in poverty have little to no chance of escaping it. In the United States the system is more in the form of a class system in which there is at least some degree of social mobility, and less status consistency allows people in poverty to have the possibility of changing their social status, but rarely the opportunity to do so. In the majority cases the most desirable situation is a meritocracy which ranks people based solely on personal achievements, or achieved status, rather than ascribed status such as being born into a ‘poorâ₠¬â„¢ family. Structural social mobility has resulted in a shift of social position for large numbers of people due to changes on a societal level, but these changes have had both upward and downward effects. The Davis-Moore thesis explains that social stratification has beneficial consequences in society, and is therefore functional, but this has been widely criticized due to its implications that society should prevent the development of individual talent. The resulting system of blue collar occupations versus white collar occupations is easily observed in society today. Around the world a wide variety of people are in poverty. This may be a result of many factors such as a traditional, agrarian society with low income; or a severely stratified economic system as a result of high population growth and little opportunity for education or access to technology. The feminization of poverty also plays a key role in the explanation of poverty worldwide, since there is an increasing trend for more women to be in poverty than men. In the U. S. there are many of the same reason for poverty, but they are more easily defined on the local level. In most cases U. S. citizens who are in poverty are in relative poverty in relation to the rest of the U. S. population; whereas in the world as a whole a greater number of people are in absolute poverty and are barely able to survive on their income, or wages and earnings, and they have very little to no wealth since it is impossible to save any of their money. Ethnocentrism makes it difficult to obtain a clear picture of the conditions of poverty and inequality in other nations and cultures. There are many theories concerning the causes and solution for poverty in the global economy. The two major theories are the modernization theory which explains inequality in terms of technological and cultural difference between nations, and the dependency theory which explains poverty in terms of the historical exploitation of poor, or low-income, nations by rich, or high-income, nations. This theory has manifest itself in a new way in today’s world in the form of neocolonialism; economic exploitation by multinational corporations. Race and ethnicity is key factor to poverty in the U. S. since an African-American is three times more likely to be in poverty than a non-Hispanic white. People with different ethnic backgrounds may experience alienation, or discrimination as a result of their differences with the people around them. Blaming the victim is a common explanation for poverty, but it doesn’t stand up to scrutiny since there are countless factors not all of which can be controlled by the victim or anyone. Gender stratification is another cause of poverty in the U. S. This social structure makes it difficult for a woman especially a single mother to both have a job and to raise children due to the preferential treatment of men in our society, or patriarchy and sexism. This double standard is often explained by the sociobiological argument that men are stronger than women due to natural selection. Age may also play a role in creating poverty. Ageism has made it very difficult for the elderly to advance in society. Young people assume that the elderly are either completely dependent or independent and they rarely will offer reasonable assistance for the elderly. The U. S. and other countries provide aid for those in poverty but rarely have structures in place to prevent people from reaching a state of poverty. Examples of such are shelters, soup kitchens, free clinics and government programs such as TANF or food stamps. In many cases these forms of aid are too temporary or not extensive enough to permanently pull a person or family out of poverty. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Sociology: Poverty and Stratification" essay for you Create order

The Social, Legal And Ethical Issues Surrounding Video...

Bully, also known as Canis Canem Edit (2006), is an open-world action adventure video game published by Rockstar Games. It was originally released on the Playstation 2 in 2006 but was later released onto the Xbox 360, Wii and PC in 2008 under the title Bully: Scholarship Edition. The game was the centre of a lot of controversy during release as it is focussed around a schoolboy named Jimmy Hopkins who is enrolled at Bullworth Academy; a school filled with bullies and corrupt teachers. Though the game was labelled as a disgrace by newspapers such as the Daily Mail and banned in countries such as Brazil, upon closer inspection, one may argue that serious social issues are tackled within the game, and many of the game’s issues are conveyed hyperbolically. The research in this report aims to look at the social, legal and ethical issues surrounding video games using Bully as an example in order to draw conclusions into the positive and negative implications. Bully is the subject of this report due to the large amount of controversy that surrounded the game, especially during its initial release. The game contains violence, bullying, theft as well as other anti-social behaviour. Though the game’s title may be misleading, the storyline of the game focuses around standing up against bullies, and many of the issues within the game are non-fictional real world issues that many young people experience. Furthermore, the game only received a BBFC rating of 15, which critiques claimedShow MoreRelatedShould Arg Designers Go For Ensure The Safety Of Body And Mind Of Their Players?1299 Words   |  6 Pagesthe limits? How far should ARG designers go to ensure the safety of body and mind of their players? What are the responsible limits of immersion? To what extent do these responsibilities lay with the player themselves? Consider the implications surrounding the Batman franchise in the context of the Why So Serious ARG. In the lead up to the 2009 Batman feature film: The Dark Knight, several thousand people received a series of clues that led them to bakeries across the US. Providing a password: theRead MoreThe Media Of The Digital Media Era868 Words   |  4 Pagesthe internet provides a platform for social media networking to become a major influence in the lives of everyone and everything imaginable. The internet is used for everything from entertainment to school, work, shopping, and research. Consumers also use the internet to play games, gather information, read blogs and websites; download, upload, and share text and media files, images, and music; communicate with others via email, instant messages, and social media sites. With all that s involvedRead MoreHiding One s Identity Is Nothing New1602 Words   |  7 Pagesunauthorized mining of personal information. Although multiple ethical framework will be used and compared, using a consequence based framework will be the main examining poin t throughout. The use of the term â€Å"anonymous† can be confusing from an online perspective. When speaking of anonymity in such a sense it is not related to the degree of traceability, but to the lack of aspects such as image, voice, and situation in the online social environment . Those against online anonymity will argue thatRead MoreHow Do Ngos Represent Humanitarian Issues Trough Images in Advertising?1603 Words   |  7 PagesHow do NGOs represent humanitarian issues trough images in advertising? Negative images of developing countries are a common means adopted by Non Governmental Organisations to raise financial support for those countries. However there has been much discussion as to weather such advertising for fundraising campaigns is really authentic and if the images used represent the issue as it is. More and more NGOs turn their backs on the use of negative images, for example of starving children, and adoptingRead MoreEssay about Video Games Inspire Violent Behavior3148 Words   |  13 Pagesstreets, on the video games and at home. Social engineering factors and psychology behind teen violence are some of the main challenges contributing to teen violence. Video games, in particular, have caused the prevalence of violence in the society. These violent actions include the sandy hook shootings and Virginia tech shootings where many people lost their lives due to rise of violent video games. Analyzing the relationship between teen violence and playing video games is an important issue in societyRead MoreHiding One s Identity Is Nothing New1915 Words   |  8 Pagesfight government corruption and oppression. Anonymity can also be used as a security measure and prevent unauthorized mining of personal information by not giving access to our real identities. While the ethics behind anonymity can be foggy, multiple ethical frameworks, including duty-based and just-consequentialism, can be used to add clarity to the topic. A duty-based framework stresses the role of duty and respect for persons, including one’s self. While a just-consequentialism stressed the promotionRead MoreProfessional, Ethical, And Legal Issues For Software Engineer1961 Words   |  8 PagesCyber-bullying Report By: Fareeda Almutairi Professional, ethical, and legal issues for software engineer CPSC 548 Department of Computer Science College of engineering and computer science California State University, Fullerton Instructor name: Michael D Falkow Spring 2015 Abstract: Bullying is a negative practice used to control, intimidate, and hurt the feelings of others. In the past few decades, there was only one type of bullying, which was called â€Å"traditionalRead MoreNext Generation Children : Smarter Or Faster Essay2046 Words   |  9 Pagesexperiments, such as ones performed by Allison Druin and Michael Scarify, have been targeted at the effects computers have on children. For many people, the basic definition of socialization would be the adoption of the behavior patterns around the surrounding culture. Many experiments have been targeted at the effects computers have on children’s socialization skills. For example, one of the various questions that have arisen is if the lack of physicality in the virtual world is an aid to a Childs self-expressionRead MoreEthical and Social Issues in Information Systems20165 Words   |  81 PagesChapter 4 Ethical and Social Issues in Information Systems LEARNING OBJECTIVES After reading this chapter, you will be able to: 1. Analyze the relationships among ethical, social, and political issues that are raised by information systems. 2. Identify the main moral dimensions of an information society and specific principles for conduct that can be used to guide ethical decisions. 3. Evaluate the impact of contemporary information systems and the Internet on the protection of individualRead MoreDrone Program Research Paper4283 Words   |  18 Pagescounterterrorism strategy, or has it just become the strategy entirely? Do the security effects of drone programs justify the political and social consequences [2]. As this robotics technology advances, these ethical, legal and security issues have created a major divide on the topic of drone technology. II. Ethical Issues As robotics and technology get more and more advanced, ethical concerns about these technologies become more and more pressing.   With the increased usage of drones, by both the United States

Legislative Requirements of Teaching in Your Specialist Area free essay sample

Working as a Financial Capability tutor my personal and work values are led by the ethos for Citizens Advice Bureau, my employer; here we value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination; our aims and principles set out to both provide the advice people need for the problems they face and improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives. There are many legislative requirements (laws), and codes of practice (directives and professional ethics) that need to be considered in a learning environment. My organisation has its own policies and proceedures that are applicable to the particular environment; these underpin the legislation to act according to the law as defined in an Act of Parliament and usually enforceable through the courts. My interpretation of ones that will effect me as a teacher are given here. The Health and Safely at Work Act (1974) Everyone has a responsibility for their own safety at work and also a duty to protect the safety and welfare of others, this effects every single organisation. Even if the learners are adults there are still rules and regulations that must be adhered to; As a teacher I need to be fully aware of these rules and ensure that any learners I teach are too. I should always make the class aware of the nearest fire exists and advise of who the fist-aiders are within the building. I must always follow best practise and to lead by example. Risk Assessments are also the responsibility of the teacher in order to establish practices that minimise risk and record any high risk activities. I need to analyse any potential risks when instructing activities within the class. It is my responsibility to assess any risk levels prior to commencement of any tasks in order to minimise the risks. If there are any accidents or incidents, I must also keep a record of these. There are then the legislations that are drawn from the Human Rights Act 2000. Disability Discrimination Act (1995 and 2005) Equality Act 2010 Teachers must respect these laws have been passed to ensure that no one is discriminated against irrespective of any disability (physical or mental) they may have or their gender, age, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation or marital status/domestic circumstances. For the teacher this means ensuring language, handouts and other learning materials are free from bias; and that inappropriate comments are challenged within the classroom. The environment and all support structures should enable access and include facilities to meet all learners’ needs. . I must ensure that any activities I set are suitable for all learners to participate and must not make any learner feel excluded by their disability. Also when advertising courses and delivering learning, a teacher should not stereotype or in any way disadvantage a group of learners. I would also be using Safeguarding of Vulnerable Adults training when working with my students. Data Protection Act 1998 The DPA requires any organisation that holds sensitive data on anyone for over two months to register as data users. As a teacher, I need to be cautious of how I store my learners personal or sensitive information. I should never share someone’s personal or sensitive information with any other person. Freedom of information act 2000 As an amendment to the Data Protection act the freedom of information act makes provision for the disclosure of information held by public authorities or by persons providing services for them. I should be aware of what my students can request to see when I hold information on them. There are also three other pieces that I would consider in my role The Further Education and Training act 2007, for its requirements on the LSC and on further education institutions to have regard to guidance in relation to consultation with learners, potential learners and employers. And the codes of practice issued by; NIACE regarding Safer Practice and Safer Learning; these help the student to focus on their rights and responsibilities when participating in the lifelong learning sector. They address issues such as harm, abuse and personal safety when taking part in any kind of learning, outlining things that could be wrong, and giving students contact details if they feel that they need to report any wrong doing, without needing access to the teacher. Also the Institute for Learning Code of Practice for Teachers 2008 Code of Professional Practice, which seeks to protect learners and the public interest and will apply to all members of the Institute for Learning . The codes purpose is to promote, value and develop the professionalism of all learning and skills practitioners. The Code outlines the behaviours expected of members – for the benefit of learners, employers, the profession and the wider community. The code lists seven behaviours for members to uphold; Professional Integrity, Respect, Reasonable Care, Professional Practice, Criminal Offence Disclosure, Responsibility during Institute Investigations, Responsibility to the Institute. These will all have an affect on what happens both in and out of my classroom and must be at the forefront of every lesson and lesson plan for a teacher. They will be used in tutor/student contracting and in appeals and complaints policies, and so it is important that I keep up to date with these legislations and codes of practice and part of my responsibility is to make sure that they are being adhered to and that I know what procedure to follow if this is not the case.

The Gift of the Magi and its Background Essay Example

The Gift of the Magi and its Background Essay In my paper I am traveling to be depicting the short narrative The Gift of the Magi. Throughout my paper I am traveling to depict what I feel is the subject of the narrative itself. I will besides be explicating and placing symbolism used and described in the narrative. every bit good as speaking about the point of position that the storyteller used in the narrative. Finally. I will be depicting how the literary elements affect the storytellers subject. The Gift of the Magi. is a short narrative written by O Henry. in this short narrative is the true significance of love and the importance it is to demo your loved 1s how much they mean to you and how much you care about them. I believe that the subject of the narrative. The Gift of the Magi. would be the gift of giving. Peoples frequently forget about the importance and giving and merely concentrate their attending on having. They are less likely to worry more about buying something for person else as they are disquieted about what person else is traveling to buy and give to them as a present. My expression on this is it is better to give than to have. In this narrative it is like how I feel and how I think around Christmas clip they do non believe about what their hubby or their married woman is traveling to be buying them as gifts this twelvemonth. They are merely focused on and concerned about purchasing each other the gift they believe is the perfect gift. We will write a custom essay sample on The Gift of the Magi and its Background specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The Gift of the Magi and its Background specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The Gift of the Magi and its Background specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer They want to demo them how much they care about them. and even if it means turning in their prized ownerships they will make that in order to buy this gift for Christmas. It shows how difficult of a clip financially that Jim and Della were holding. Della merely had $ 1. 87 to her name to be able to buy her hubby Jim the gift she wanted to for Christmas and this was non traveling to go on. She knew that she was traveling to hold to sell her hair to be able to buy her hubby Jim’s ticker that she wanted to acquire him for Christmas. They. however. larn a batch about the nature of love and its relationship to giving. ( Clugston. 2010 p. 5. 5 ) . I believe that throughout the narrative there was a batch of symbolism that was used. Just to call a twosome that I feel is really of import portion of the narrative would be Della’s hair. and Jim’s ticker. These are really of import to each other and would be considered their most prized ownerships. I feel like they both use their ain point to typify love. They took it upon themselves to sell their prized ownerships in order to be able to buy the gift for each other for Christmas. They had to sell these in order to hold adequate money and to be able to financially buy the perfect gif they had found each other. This shows the existent love they had for each other. and besides shows unselfish love. The point of position this short narrative was told in was third-person limited omniscient. This point of position is used when the ideas and feelings throughout the narrative is focused on one of the characters alternatively of more than one. After reading. The Gift of the Magi. I think that the storyteller uses assorted literary elements to assist the reader better understand what the subject of the narrative is truly about. I believe that Della and Jim shows what love. generousness. and philistinism is truly approximately during this narrative. The author’s chief character he created was of beauty and emotion. Della appears to be really altruistic in the short narrative. She is non concerned about herself. but merely concerned about her hubby. I believe that the writer goes into really good item about the feelings and emotions of Della and Jim in the narrative so it will assist people who are reading it to be able to associate better to the narrative. When reading the narrative I could see times that I personally have difficult it difficult and it made me to be able to associate to the feelings that she was holding. I believe that the literary elements were used a batch during the narrative to truly merely give the reader a better understand of what they are reading. It is easier for a reader to be able to concentrate. focal point. and bask the narrative if they can associate to it. Mention Clugston. R. W. ( 2010 ) . Journey into Literature. San Diego. California: Bridgepoint Education. Inc.

Inspiring Quotes for Teachers

Inspiring Quotes for Teachers Teachers often encourage students with motivational speeches and quotes. But what motivates the teachers? Teachers gain inspiration when they see their students progress. Inspiring Quotes Amos Bronson Alcott The true teacher defends his pupils against his own personal influence. Maria Montessori We teachers can only help the work going on, as servants wait upon a master. Anatole France The whole art of teaching is only the art of awakening the natural curiosity of young minds for the purpose of satisfying it afterward. Galileo You cannot teach a man anything; you can only help him discover it in himself. Donald Norman So what does a good teacher do? Create tension- but just the right amount. Bob Talbert Teaching kids to count is fine, but teaching them what counts is best. Daniel J. Boorstin Education is learning what you didnt even know you didnt know. B. F. Skinner Education is what survives when what has been learned has been forgotten. Famous Poet William Butler Yeats Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire. Wendy Kaminer Only people who die very young learn all they really need to know in kindergarten.

Punctuation Game

Punctuation Game Punctuation Game Punctuation Game By Sharon So you think you know your punctuation? Now you can put it to the test. Eats, Shoots and Leaves, reviewed by Maeve in July, has a punctuation game online. There are to questions on the placement of the apostrophe and comma, and at the end of the game you get a score showing how much of a stickler you are for correct punctuation use. Review our tips on punctuation, then take the quiz. Good luck! Come back and share your score in the comments. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Punctuation category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:10 Rules for Writing Numbers and NumeralsWhat's a Male Mistress?Ulterior and Alterior

Strategy- Energy Firm Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Strategy- Energy Firm - Assignment Example However, the case of BP oil shows that firms seek to reduce cost at the expense of ethical actions hence the observed problem (Tencati & Perrini, 2011). The strategies of the company are to incorporate the additional cost of meeting ethical requirements and corporate social responsibility in the final price to the consumer. Competitive strategies in various industries have gone beyond pricing. The cost of production remains a key factor in a firm’s profit level. Ethical concern is cost related and remains a competitive dilemma among companies. Although the cost of corporate social responsibility affects the profits, it has long term benefits as far as market share is concerned (Tencati & Perrini, 2011). For profit companies can effectively balance ethical practices with competition. The consumer community is aware of the ethical practices hence significantly influence the performance of the firm. This was evident when the world frowned against the BP oil over its environmental degradation on the spill. This means strategic costing and fair pricing would help address market size in the long run and compete favorably. The situation of BP oil would have been averted if the management had considered the high cost environment care option. The CEO would have opted for the expensive casing pipe as this would help reduce the risk significantly (Tencati & Perrini, 2011). It is evident that the wrong decision cost the firm its global image and subsequent slump in sales. The situation would have been prevented by insisting on ethical standards as a long term consumer focused

Artificial nutrition and hydration and end of life decision making Term Paper

Artificial nutrition and hydration and end of life decision making - Term Paper Example The Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association (HPNA) emphasized that ANH was originally described as a means to effectively â€Å"provide short-term support for patients who were acutely ill and are often used to provide a bridge to recovery, or to meet therapeutic goals of prolonging life† (Hospice and Palliative Nurse Association (HPNA), 2011, p. 1). The current discourse hereby aims to present crucial ethical concerns or dilemma pertaining to AHN, especially during end of life (EOL) situations using support from evidence based sources. Ethical Concerns In an article written by Brody, et al. (2011), the authors explored controversial issues ranging from allegedly prolonging or sustaining unconscious human life, particularly that which was apparently categorized as patients in permanent vegetative state (PVS); also in terms of determining conformity to patients’ or relatives’ wishes in contrast to health care practitioners’ professional guidelines (Sampso n, Candy, & Jones, 2009). Other ethical issues ensue from the religious beliefs and practices, specifically that which were defined under the early doctrines of the Roman Catholic church, to wit: â€Å"to value above all the ability of medical technology to extend life indefinitely was interpreted by the Church as idolatry† (Drane, 2006; cited in Brody, et al.: The 1950s, 2011, par. 2). This original belief apparently seemed to stem from the perspective that life and death is governed by the Supreme Being or God and that any intervention not considered within the natural course of life was therefore considered not within the Will of God. This belief was apparently changed in recent Catholic teachings which reportedly supported that â€Å"the position currently endorsed by the Church hierarchy stresses life prolongation based on fundamental human dignity. The two most recent Popes have each stated that administration of food and water, artificially or not, constitutes ordinar y care â€Å"in principle;† ANH is to be considered not a medical technology, but rather a â€Å"natural means of preserving life.† Removing ANH is â€Å"euthanasia by omission† because the cause of death would be lack of sustenance rather than the underlying disease† (Brody, et al.:Recent Roman Catholic Teaching, 2011, par. 1). The new teachings support the belief that life should be preseved by all means, as a consistent paradigm towards provision of all methods and possible resources available and accessible to the family members and to the medical practitioners governing the patients’ lives. Concurrently, as expounded by Brody, et al. (2011), a transition in bioethics that acknowledged patients rights to refuse life extending medical care, consistent with patients’ rights and the obligation to allegedly respect patient autonomy has elevated application of ANH to face the following ethical concerns: â€Å"Bioethicists who supported mandat ory ANH offered several arguments: terminating food or fluids made the physician causally responsible for death; the burdens of ANH seemed minor compared to the overriding good of life prolongation; food and fluids represented â€Å"care† at a basic, symbolic level; and in an environment dominated by cost containment, forgoing ANH might lead to the selective elimination of vulnerable patients†

International Baccalaureate program of studies Essay Example for Free

International Baccalaureate program of studies Essay It has always been my dream and my desire to complete a higher education and be able to have a strong foundation upon which to build my success. I have many goals in life and, while I sometimes have not known exactly what route I wanted to take for my life, but I always knew that I wanted to be successful and create a place for myself in the world. The International Baccalaureate Program would be the perfect place for me to begin my journey towards becoming a successful professional who can both support herself and create a great life for her family, as well as make an effect on the world around me, beginning with my community. This program would give me the opportunity to begin that journey towards a newer, better future in which I can show the world that just because you have a slow start, doesn’t mean you cannot accomplish a great deal with your life. I have had many struggles throughout my life, particularly in terms of my grades and my studies in high school. Subjects do not always come easy to me, and while I have not always had the highest grade in the class, the grades I have earned I have worked very hard for. I do not feel that any failure, either personally, professionally, or academically, is really a waste, because even when I have made mistakes I have learned a great deal from them and this has allowed me to become a better student and individual. I feel this way because not everyone is perfect or has an easy time of things, and by struggling myself I can better understand and appreciate other people with similar issues. This is why my goal of becoming a social worker or a businesswoman is so important to me. I believe that my background and my ability to overcome so much will make me into a better student in college and a better professional in my future career. I wish to challenge myself to become a better person, and this program would be a great starting place for my future. Whatever I do, I do with my full heart, even if I do not succeed right from the beginning. I am a very artistic person that enjoys exploring my own creativity and looking outside of the box. One of the hobbies that I have taken the most interest in has been drawing, and I have thrown myself into this with a great amount of enthusiasm. My drawing is very important to me as it gives me a creative outlet for all of my hopes, fears, dreams and realities. I also play the flute, and this has taught me discipline and how important it is to see things through to the end. It has always taught me the value of practice and how I can see myself improving through hard work and dedication to something that I am involved in. This can easily carry on to my commitment to this program and all that it has to offer. Overall, my life is improving and I have been becoming a stronger individual because of my struggles in school. I know that now that I have found ways for me to succeed academically I will continue to become a better student and eventually a better professional. With my hard work, dedication, commitment to improvement, and creativity, I would make a strong candidate for admission into the International Baccalaureate Program. I look forward to being a part of your program.

Shah’s Fables in The Way of Sufi :: Way of Sufi Essays

Shah’s Fables in The Way of Sufi  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚   When most people answer the question, "What is a fable?" they usually define it as a story with talking animals that teaches readers a lesson or moral. Although most fables do fit into this category, Idries Shah, an author of many fables, believes that there is more to a fable than just being an interesting story that teaches a lesson. In fact, Shah writes in the "Forward" of his book Reflections, "Do you imagine that fables exist only to amuse or to instruct, and are based upon fiction? The best ones are delineations of what happens in real life, in the community, and in the individual’s mental processes" (1, 2). What Shah means is that the best fables describe life, one’s mental processes, and the surrounding community to the fullest. In "The Man, the Snake, and the Stone," from his book Caravan of Dreams, Shaw gives insight to the way humans’ mental processes are and how they should be. The fable seems to be a tale about a curious, yet ignorant, man who desperately tries to justify his action of releasing the snake from under the stone so that the snake does not kill him. However, this fable shows the reader how selfish, inconsiderate, and unreasonable humans are with their animal "friends." One thing this fable demonstrates to the reader is how selfish humans are in their ways. The fable starts with the man who picks up a stone and releases a venomous snake. The snake, of course, threatens to kill the man, but the man pleas for his life because he claims he set the snake free. The man cries, "Give me one more chance. Please let us find someone else to give an opinion, so that my life may be spared" (904). The man cares nothing about how the snake has been inconvenienced. All he cares about is trying to keep the snake from killing him. Another issue this fable addresses is how inconsiderate man is to the animals of this planet. The fable gives two examples of animals that are treated unfairly. The first example tells of a flock of sheep which have provided humans with wool for many years. Now, after all the years of helping the humans, the humans turn around and repay the favor by killing the sheep for mutton. A sheep sarcastically adds, "That is the measure of generosity of men" (904).

Building an Ethical Organization Essay

The human service organization that I have become a director for is an addiction clinic. The clinic will be providing treatment for people within the community that have addiction problems. There will be programs available for people to receive treatment to meet each individuals needs. The goal will be for the patients to receive the best care available to be able to beat addiction. This clinic’s goal will be provide resources to better the community in which it serves. Each employee will be held to high standard and will have the appropriate training needed to each client to the best of their ability. The clinic wants to help the community by serving the people who suffer from addiction and providing them with the best care possible. Treatment for drug, alcohol, gambling, smoking, and other addictions are all services provided from this clinic. There will be different programs available to meet each person’s different needs. There are several different types of addicti on. Every person who has a problem with addiction is different so the clinic will meet all the needs for each. Each program will have different steps for each client to help beat their addiction. The clientele for this clinic will be people who suffer problems with addiction and children whose parents have suffered addiction problems. The clinic will have counseling for families with children so the children can understand what is going on with their parents. The counseling will help the children know how to help their parents and to also make sure that the child is not in a hostile environment. The clinic wants to help families who have suffered addiction to be able to work through their situations and work on their family. Children have suffered because of the addiction problem their parents have. The clinic wants to help counsel the children to help them understand and move forward in a positive direction. Any person who suffers from addiction will be able to come to the clinic to receive the help they need. This clinic is a non-profit clinic. Donations are accepted to help fund each program that is offered. The clinic has fundraisers to help raise money to help keep the clinic open. All the money that is raised goes toward  the programs, staff salaries, building expenses, and all other expenses that help keep the clinic running to the highest standards. Any donation is recognized through the clinic. We take pride in our excellence and want to recognize anyone that helps us in funding the clinic so we can keep achieving our goals. The community is encouraged to be a part of making the clinic better. The clinic wants feedback from the community so we can better serve our clients. The mission statement for the addiction clinic is, to improve a person’s life by providing diverse care for patients who have different addiction problems within the community. The mission statement will support the ethical system because it states that the clinic wants to provide diverse care for patients with different addiction problems. The goal for the clinic is to provide care for the patients that meet their different needs. Every person that comes to the clinic will be different and so there has to be programs available to meet those needs. The mission statement’s sends a positive message to the community because it tells them that the clinic is there to help with addiction problems within the community. Addiction is a problem in every community so the statement tells the community members that there is help available for this problem. The addiction clinic’s value statements are, for all patients to receive quality prevention, treatment, recovery, and support services so they can reach the goal of staying clean from illegal drugs and alcohol abuse. The value statement for this clinic inspires action because it tells people with addiction in the community that there is support for them to reach the goal of staying clean from illegal drugs and alcohol abuse. This value relates to the clinic’s mission statement because they both are stating that they want to help people with addiction. They both state that the clinic want to provide care for the different types of addiction and that they want the best for the patients who received treatment from the clinic. The ethical principles that guide our work are the product of broad-based consultation, are drafted by representatives of professional bodies and organizations, and exist in the form of guidelines and proposed codes of conduct (Gruskin & Dickens, 2006). The codes of ethics for this clinic are the following: 1. Work in a manner that supports the clinics mission, goals, and value statement. 2. Uphold the code of ethics to human service professionals. 3. Protect the confidentiality of clients according to the rules and  regulations of HIPPA. 4. Staff must take appropriate steps to unethical behavior of colleagues. 5. Unethical behavior of staff is not acceptable. 6. Staff must follow commitment to the clinic. 7. Staff must be aware of issues that affect clients from diverse backgrounds. 8. Staff must respect the integrity and welfare of each client. 9. Staff must treat clients with acceptance and respect. 10. Sexual relations with clients and or staff members are prohibited. 11. If suspicion of danger or harm may occur, staff must protect the safety of the client, clinic, and employees by following appropriate steps. 12. Staff must stay up on training and classes offered to improve the care given to clients. 13. Discrimination toward clients, staff, and community is not accepted. 14. Sexual misconduct toward clients, staff, and community is not accepted. 15. Sexual harassment toward clients, staff, and community is not accepted. The code of ethics listed above gives employees a list of appropriate behavior while employed with the clinic. Each employee must follow every ethic that is listed to ensure that the employees of the clinic are giving the best care to the clients that is expected. The code of ethics is related to the mission and values of the clinic because it helps the staff give the best care available to the clients in the community with helping with the problem of addiction. According to the Healthcare Leadership Alliance (HLA), the professionalism competency is the ability to align personal and organizational conduct with ethical and professional standards that include a responsibility to the patient and community, a service orientation, and a commitment to lifelong learning and improvement (Garman, Evans, Drouse, & Anfossi, 2006). The values of the clinic are very important. Each employee should be aware and know them by memory. This way each employee knows what is expected out of them from the clinic. Each employee is held to a high standard and should be aware of the values and ethics of the clinic. The clinic uses tangible cultural forms. I want to promote ethics and values in the everyday work  environment. This form allows the staff to hear and use the ethics and values everyday so they stay fresh in their minds and they stay cautious of their actions. If the employees are reminded everyday of the ethics and values of the clinic then they will b e no reason for the employees to not follow them. Shared values are hung throughout the clinic that shows the clinic’s values. This keeps the staff aware of the values by reminding them as they walk through the hallways of the clinic. Meetings are held each month that allows the staff and the directors meet and go over feedback from the community. During these meeting the values and ethics are discussed with the staff so they are reminded of what is expected. This allows the staff to give feedback on the values and ethics. As a leader in this type of clinic there are several moral responsibilities that I have. I not only have moral responsibilities toward the clients that the clinic serves but also to the employees. I have moral responsibility for each client because they reaching out for help. I want to offer them every possible resource so they can get out of their situation. If the shelter fails on doing so then the clients could return to their addiction and possibly end up in a worse situation. I am morally responsible for the employees because they have to know how to handle these types of situations. As leaders, it is our responsibility to be catalysts and role models for our professional colleagues by both retaining and communicating a profound sense of optimism regarding the future of the law, health care, and our respective organizations (Gragnolati & Stupak, 2002). I want the employees of the clinic to lead by example. I hold myself with high standards and follow each rule. I go to training when they are offered to ensure that I stay educated on any issues so I can better serve the clinic, staff, and clients. My goal as the leader is to have a staff that holds themselves to the same standards as I use. This way each employee keeps the same goals and wants the same for the clinic and the clients. For this clinic I use transformation leadership. I want my employees to trust me as their leader. I think that with this type of leader, the employees are comforted because they know that the leader is just as much invested to fixing any problem that arises. The employees have to have the proper training so they know how to counsel the clients and know what resources to offer them. If the employees fail in doing so then as a leader I also fail. Each staff member must go through training to ensure  that they give the best care to each client. They must keep up on certifications if needed. Each staff member has an evaluation done every 3 months to ensure that they are giving the best care to the clients and to make sure that the employee is following the code of ethics, mission, and values. Appropriate steps are taken if the employee fails to follow the rules and termination may occur if needed. The clinic does not tolerate employees who are not loyal to the clinic, clients, and the staff. The clinic wants employees who are there that can follow the rules and ethics of the clinic. Each client takes a feedback survey so the clinic can evaluate the programs and employees. We want each program offered to be the best it can to help serve the clients. Feedback from the clients helps the clinic know what areas of each program are working and which ones are not. This way the programs can be fixed to help meet the needs of the clie nts. This clinic will provide different care for patients battling addiction. Each patient will be in programs that best fits their needs. The clinic will have qualified workers to help meet the needs of each patient. The mission and value statement both send positive messages to the community because it tells them that the clinic is there to help with the problems of addiction within the community. These statements also state that the clinic wants the patients to receive the best treatment to help with the addiction problem. There are fifteen codes of ethics that each employee of the clinic must know and follow. The ethics makes the employee aware of what is expected of them as an employee of the clinic. Each employee should be aware of all twelve codes of ethics and should follow them accordingly. Tangible cultural forms are used in the clinic. This allows the clinic to promote the values and ethics through the work environment. The clinic holds high standards for the employee. Each employee has evaluations done to make sure the employees are giving the best care for each client. This keeps employees aware of issues that they need to work on so they can become better with the care that they give. The clinic strives to help each client meet the goal in recovery. With all the steps the clinic makes to achieve this goal, an ethical organization has been built. References Garman, A. N., Evans, R., & Drouse, M. K., Anfossi, J. (2006, July / Aug). Professionalism. Journal of Healthcare Management, 51(), 219. http://proquest.umi.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/pqdweb?index=62&did=1092901951&SrchMode=1&sid=9&Fmt=4&VInst=PROD&VType=PQD&RQT=309&VName=PQD&TS=1289765094&clientId=13118 Gragnolati, B. A., & Stupak, R. J. (2002, Summer). Life and Liberty: The power of positive purpose. Journal of Health and Human Services Administration, 25(), 75. http://proquest.umi.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/pqdweb?index=3&did=677546611&SrchMode=1&sid=2&Fmt=3&VInst=PROD&VType=PQD&RQT=309&VName=PQD&TS=1289762787&clientId=13118 Gruskin, S., & Dickens, B. (2006, November). Human rights and ethics in public health. American Journal of Public Health, 96(11), 1903. http://proquest.umi.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/pqdweb?index=35&did=1159402191&SrchMode=1&sid=2&Fmt=3&VInst=PROD&VType=PQD&RQT=309&VName=PQD&TS=1289763672&clientId=13118

Problem-Posing Vignette

Understanding the Dynamics of Culture Shock as a Tool for Vignette ReflectionAfter I finished my Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, I taught for one year in primary school. After which, I taught in the King Saud University which relatively offers better income than my previous work. In order to upgrade my educational skills, I went to the University of Wollongong in Australia to take Masters of Education in Educational Leadership. However, since my arrival in the said university, unexpected things came up. These â€Å"unexpected† things I classified as â€Å"problems† since they were disrupting my psyche (ability to understand why things happen in such a way) and to an extent my studies. These problems ranged from the difficulty of learning English to the so-called culture shock.Useful paragraph to set the sceneBut the problem of learning English could be resolved through a thorough study of the language. This was not the case when it comes to culture shock. For one, u nderstanding culture shock would involve a clear understanding of the cultures that the students in the university belong.Identification of a couple of problemsWhen I took a taxi from the Sydney airport to my place of stay, I noticed that driving was done on the other side of the road unlike in Saudi Arabia. I really thought that I could not drive in Australia, but in due time I was able to do so. Added to that, I also noticed that many people in Australia liked to walk, unlike in Saudi, where all people have cars to use. It was pretty odd for a developed nation not to require its citizens to use cars as a mode of transportation. Maybe it was the preference of most of the people in Australia to walk than use car as a mode of transportation. Whatever the case, I was bound to examine the dynamics of this odd experience.Detail of experienceWith regard to the issue of gender, in Saudi Arabia, it is the norm that boys cannot study together with girls. In Australia, especially in the univ ersity, boys and girls are usually involved in group studies, that is, boys and girls can study together without the restriction of law or custom. One of the â€Å"greatest† culture shock that I experienced was the time when girl students of the university (my classmates) study with me. Corollary to that, I also noticed that in Australia, women can teach men on a wide variety of subjects which is generally prohibited in Saudi Arabia.Hence, there were many times that women were teaching me; some were connected to my subjects, others issues essential to my field of specialization. Lastly, I really thought that books in Australia are much cheaper than in Saudi Arabia. But such was not the case. Books in Australia are actually more expensive compared with the books in Saudi Arabia. I was really caught up on this experience since Australia being a developed country can afford its citizens cheap books, but it was not the case (thinking that since Australia encourages promotes educa tion at all levels, it necessarily follows that it will provide cheap educational materials). More detail of experienceNow, my primary concern was to how to adapt or at least understand the justification of my experience. Since I came from a different cultural setting, it was hard for me in the start to cope up with the habits and customs of the Australian people. For an ordinary Australian or European, this is not really a problem since their cultural settings are almost similar. In Europe, boys are usually mixed with girls during study periods.I do not know about the prices of books in Europe, but certainly it would not be a problem for the Europeans if the books in an Australian university are cheaper or more expensive than the books in a European university. Walking as a preferred mode of transportation was not really a big deal for Europeans or Asians perhaps. Most of them usually walk as in the case of major European or Asian cities. But in Saudi Arabia, things are quite diffe rent. There are laws that prohibit boys from studying with girls. Girls are also prohibited from teaching boys, and with regard to walking, the Saudi government advises its citizens to use car as mode of transportation.Initially, I had this fear that I might not be able to interact effectively with the students of the university because I belong to a different ethnicity, but because of continued acquaintance with the students, gradually I was able to understand the justifications of the cultural setting to which I am now seating. It was really odd for me that because of continued interaction with them, the culture shock that I experienced when I first came in Australia was melting away. Indeed, almost all of the â€Å"culture shocks† were for me just common events here in Australia. Now, there are definitely reasons or justifications for events that what meets the eye in the first instance. First, it is the perception of â€Å"oddness†, and then there is understanding. I was able to conclude that continuous interaction with people who came from different ethnicities or cultural settings can help reduce culture shock.The more one interacts and talk to people, the more one understands the concerns of those people. Nonetheless, if biases are removed in the daily interaction with people in the university, one cannot discern the true meaning of the cultural setting presented to you. As such, without much effort, my culture shock was gradually reduced. I just noticed that I was beginning to understand the dynamics of the events that I previously experienced. Reflecting on the past also helped me assessed my understanding of the issues presented to me. Thus what I did not really understand in the past was tested through real-life interaction. Thus, the things or situation I termed as â€Å"culture shock† were becoming common things for me. Now there are two questions that should be presented: â€Å"How do I absorb â€Å"culture shock†? an d â€Å"How can I help my friends or anyone who wants to reduce the effect of culture shock?†

SWOT Analysis Al Capones

SWOT Analysis Al Capones Introduction Al-Capone’s restaurant came into existence in 1927 under the initiative of Gladys Meyers. The restaurant is located along the shores of Fox River and operates in a big and spacious house. In the course of its operation, Al Capone’s mission is to achieve sustainable growth by providing its customers with an untouchable dining experience (Al Capone’s, 2012).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on SWOT Analysis: Al Capone’s specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The firm’s operations are guided by one major objective, which entails offering its customers great and diverse wines, spirits, micro-brews, and foods. Al Capone’s focuses at maintaining the real taste of food and alcohol beverages that it offered during the 1920’s. In addition to positioning itself as a unique drinking point, Al Capone’s also focuses at offering its customers unique entertainment. One of t he ways through which the firm attains this goal is by entering into contracts with renowned music bands such as Dixieland stars and saxophonists such as Johnny Waters, Franz Jackson, and Glenn Koch. These elements are some of the main areas that have contributed towards the firm’s survival (Al Capone’s, 2012). SWOT analysis Strengths Strong brand Branding is one of the avenues through which organizations can derive their competitive advantage. According to Healey (2008), branding entails a continuous commitment to deliver product meaning and promise to customers. The restaurant has managed to maintain the quality of products it offered during the 1920s. As a result, it has developed a strong identity within the society in which it operates. People travel for long miles in order to enjoy the tasty spirits, great food, and lively entertainment within the restaurant (Al-Capone’s, 2012). Customers who patronize the hotel experience the roaring characteristic of th e hotel that persisted during the 1920s and 30s. This element has played a critical role in enhancing a strong attachment with the society. Consequently, the firm has been in a position to nurture a strong level of customer loyalty. According to Healey (2008), customer loyalty is a key ingredient in the survival and success of firms considering the high rate at which the business environment is transforming. Product diversification- Since its inception, Al Capone’s has been able to diversify its product offering. The firm has achieved this by adopting a multiproduct strategy. The strategy enables firms to become more diversified hence improving their performance. Effective integration of multiproduct strategy is realizable by integrating the concept of focusing. Consequently, firms’ management teams have to focus on the most profitable product to integrate in their product offering (McDaniel, Hair, Lamb, 2008).Advertising Looking for essay on business economi cs? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Al Capone’s has integrated multiproduct strategy by incorporating a variety of foods, wines, spirits, microbrews, cigars, and steaks. The quality of products offered by the firm has significantly contributed towards the development of strong brand recognition. One of the ways through which the firm has attained this element is by positioning itself optimally as a unique steakhouse. The firm offers sizeable meat steaks compared to other steakhouses in Chicago, which greatly appeals customers. Its product diversification strategy has consistently enabled Al Capone’s achieve effectiveness in satisfying customers’ needs (Al Capone’s, 2012). Effective pricing strategy Organizations can derive their competitive advantage from effective costing. One of the ways through which firms can achieve this aspect is by producing at a lower cost compared to competitors, which pr ovides firms with an opportunity to set the price of their products competitively (Andreasen Kotler, 2003). Al Capone’s is cognizant of the fact that consumers are price conscious. Consequently, the firm has incorporated a pricing strategy that takes into account the consumers’ purchasing power. One of the ways through which the firm has attained this goal is by integrating a special menu popularly known as â€Å"recession proof†. The special menus are available on Fridays and Sundays. The menus constitute unique foods. Unique location- The restaurant is uniquely located along the Fox River. Its location provides customers with an opportunity to explore the wilderness for to access the restaurant, customers travel through the wilderness, past gambling dens, and hoodlum haunts, which contribute to a high level of customer satisfaction. Strong human capital Firms can derive a high competitive advantage by offering effective and efficient customer service. One of the ways through which they can achieve this aspect is by training their employees on how to offer quality and optimal services. In the course of its operation, Al Capone’s has managed to develop strong brand recognition by ensuring that customers get excellent services. Upon patronizing the hotel, customers are welcomed by hostesses dressed like flapper. Additionally, serving is splendid laced with customer friendliness, which enables customers to derive a unique experience (Al Capone’s, 2012).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on SWOT Analysis: Al Capone’s specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Weaknesses Poor accessibility   Sales revenue of restaurants is greatly dependent on the size of traffic. Consequently, it is paramount for hotels and restaurants’ management teams to ensure that customers can easily access their premises. One of the ways through which this goal is attainable is by ensuri ng that the restaurants are strategically located (Garvey, Dismore Dismore, 2011). Accessing the restaurant is not easy especially for new comers for the restaurant is located in rugged terrain surrounded by hills and forests. The roads leading to the restaurant are poorly lit. Additionally, the address to the restaurant is hard to find. The signs directing customers to the restaurant are fixed on trees along the road. In most cases, consumers prefer travelling to guesthouses and restaurants that are conveniently located. When selecting their drinking and dining choices, time is one of the major considerations that consumers take into account (Garvey, Dismore Dismore, 2011). The restaurant does not have a parking lot. Customers are forced to park their cars along the river and trek to the restaurant. This aspect presents a major security threat to customers and their property, hence a major weakness of the Al Capone’s Lack of market leadership The firm has not optimally pos itioned itself in the restaurant industry. Despite the firm being in operation for a long duration, the firm has not managed to position itself as a market leader, which limits the firm’s ability to deal with changes occurring in the restaurant industry (Boone Kurtz, 2011). Low rate of product innovation The firm has not implemented an effective research and development strategy. This aspect has limited the firm’s ability to improve its products and service offering. The firm continues to operate in its traditional format, which might limit its ability to adjust to changes in consumer tastes and preferences. Low scale of operation- The firm operates in only one location. Despite the firm being in operation for almost a century, it has not incorporated the concept of market expansion. This aspect has greatly limited its ability to tap the prevailing market opportunities. Its operation in only one location has reduced the firm’s ability to attain the benefits ass ociated with economies of scale. Opportunities Innovation   Al Capone can increase its profitability by undertaking continuous product and service improvement. Over the years, the firm has positioned itself as a renowned entity with regard to the provision of tasty wines, great foods, and lively music. The firm’s management should focus on how to add value to its product and service offering. This move will allow the restaurant to gain more customers and thus raise its sales revenue.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More One of the strategies that the firm should consider in its quest to be innovative is by adding new flavors (Bilton, 2007). Product innovation will significantly enable the firm to deal with alterations in consumer purchasing behaviors. The firm can also engage in new product development. The technological revolution especially with regard to information technology presents Al Capone’s with a timely chance to grow by exploiting the opportunities that come with the revolution. This assertion arises from the fact that Al Capone’s can use emerging technologies to create market awareness in its marketing practices. Social media is one of the technologies that the firm should focus on. In addition, it should improve its marketing practices by integrating different social networking forums such as Facebook, Twitter, Google plus, and blogs (Chaffey, et al., 2003). New distribution channels Al Capone’s can enhance its profitability by establishing new outlets in the US. Currently, the firm operates in only one outlet, which limits a large number of customers from accessing its products. In the process of establishing new outlets, it should identify the most optimal location where the outlets will be situated. It is also important for the firm to focus on maximizing its profitability by venturing in emerging markets. Change in consumer lifestyle   Currently, consumers are increasing becoming more adventurous, which presents a great opportunity for the firm to increase its profit. Its unique location and the opportunity for customers to experience the wilderness in accessing the hotel present a convenient opportunity to win a large number of customers. Additionally, the increase in degree of health-consciousness amongst consumers in their consumption pattern presents an opportunity for the firm. Al Capone’s should exploit the change in customer lifestyle by ensuring that it offers healthy food products. Currently, the society is undergoing significant social transformation. One of the transformations is associated with growth of domestic tourism. Increase in consumer disposable income   The US has experienced a stable economic growth over the past decade. Despite the adverse effects of the 2008 economic recession, the numerous economic stimulus packages implemented by the US government have significantly contributed to economic restoration. Consequently, there is a high probability of consumers experiencing an increment in their disposable income. This aspect will translate into an improvement in their purchasing power. The increment in consumers’ purchasing power might translate into a shift in their purchasing behavior; for example, they may refocus on consuming in luxurious hotels. Threats Change in consumer tastes and preferences The firm’s profitability may be affected by alterations in consumer tastes and preferences. For example, the high rate at which consumers are becoming health conscious ma y affect the firm. Findings of previous studies conducted associate eating red meat with increased risk of predisposing people to cancer and heart diseases. This realization has made most consumers to become very conscious of their eating patterns (Bakalar, 2012). This emerging evidence is a threat to the survival of the firm considering the fact that steak constitutes one of its main dishes. Economic recession The firm faces a major threat emanating from changes in the external business environment. One of these threats relates to occurrence of an economic recession. Recession may adversely affect the firm through a reduction in the firm’s sales revenue. The recent economic recession made most American consumers to focus on purchasing necessities rather than luxuries. In the event of the recession recurring, the firm’s profitability may be affected adversely. Increased competition   The US restaurant industry is undergoing significant transformation due to increase d competition. Some of the major industry players include Kentucky Fried Chicken, Darden Restaurants, Outback Steakhouse, and Taco Bell. More firms are venturing into the hotel industry in an effort to exploit the emerging opportunities. Al Capone’s does not have control over the activities within the industry. For example, the US restaurant industry is experiencing an increment in the number of steakhouses being established (First Research, 2012). As a result, there is a high probability of the firm experiencing a decline in its profitability. Legal reforms   During the 1920s and 1930s, the restaurant experienced a major threat emanating from the imposition of the prohibition era. The prohibition era was imposed through enactment of the Lever Food and Fuel Control Act. The legislation aimed at reducing the â€Å"evils† associated with alcohol. The US government imposed legislation that prohibited importation, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. The legi slation had adverse effects on the survival of the firm because customers count not patronize and enjoy at the hotel freely. The threat posed by legal reforms persists even today. In 2009, the US government proposed to increase alcohol tax. The objective of the tax is to assist in funding the country’s national healthcare reforms. The enactment of the proposal would result in the tax levied on a 750 ml bottle of alcohol increase from $ 0.21 to $ 0.70. This change will translate into an increment in the price of alcoholic drinks, which will affect Al Capone’s sales revenue adversely. Conclusion and recommendations Al Capone’s has managed to develop a number of internal strengths, which have enhanced its survival. Its ability to offer quality products and adoption of product diversification has enhanced its ability to satisfy its customers. Additionally, the restaurant’s unique location and its effectiveness in maintaining the quality of products and servic e offering have contributed towards the development of a strong customer loyalty. Its effective pricing has enabled the firm to be consistent in attracting and retaining customers. Despite these aspects, the firm experiences a number of weaknesses such as low rate of product innovation, failure to develop market leadership, and poor accessibility. The firm faces a number of opportunities and threats from the external environment, and thus to survive into the future, it is important for the firm to consider the following. The firm should allocate more resources to continued research and development in the quest to remain relevant in the ever-changing market place. This move will effectively improve the firm’s ability to satisfy its customers. Its innovativeness should also incorporate devising strategies on how to improve its distribution channel. The firm should incessantly carry out market studies in order to monitor and adapt to the prevailing market trends coupled with cr eating contingency plan to face the future confidently. The market research should focus on customers and competitors. Reference List Al Capone’s. (2012). History of Al Capone’s hideaway steakhouse. Web. Andreasen, A., Kotler, P. (2003).Strategic marketing for nonprofits organisations. London, UK: Prentice Hall. Bakalar, N. (2012). Risks: More red meat, more mortality. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/13/health/research/red-meat-linked-to-cancer-and-heart-disease.html?_r=0 Bilton, C. (2007). Management and creativity: From creative industries to creative  management. Malden, MA: Blackwell Publishers. Boone, P., Kurtz. D. (2011). Boone and Kurtz contemporary marketing. Mason, MA: Cengage Learning. Chaffey, D., Mayer, R., Johnston, K., Ellis-Chadwick, F. (2003). Internet marketing,  strategy, implementation and practice. London, UK: Prentice Hall. First Research. (2012). Restaurant industry profile. Retrieved from firstresearch.com/Industry-Researc h/Restaurants.html Garvey, M., Dismore, H., Dismore, A. (2011). Running a restaurant for dummies.  Hoboken, NJ: Wiley. Healey, M. (2008). What is branding? (Essential Design Handbooks). Switzerland: RotoVision. McDaniel, C., Hair, J., Lamb, C. (2008). Essentials of marketing. New York, NY: Cengage Learning.

3 Types of Compound-Word Errors

3 Types of Compound-Word Errors 3 Types of Compound-Word Errors 3 Types of Compound-Word Errors By Mark Nichol Compound words can easily confuse writers. Compound nouns, for example, are variously styled closed (for example, horseshoe), hyphenated (light-year), and open (â€Å"income tax†). But correctly formatting a noun isn’t the only challenge when it comes to determining whether one word or two is appropriate. This post discusses three classes of errors in usage regarding compounds. First, adverbs such as altogether and prepositions like nevertheless and notwithstanding are often styled â€Å"all together,† â€Å"not withstanding,† and â€Å"never the less,† but although use of these phrases is at least plausible (for example, â€Å"When they were all together, we found that they were more likely to agree†), when they serve as adverbs and prepositions, it is never correct to treat them as separate words. (Yes, all and together are both adverbs, but â€Å"all together† is a sequence of two adverbs, one intensifying the other, not a single adverb.) On the other hand, the following phrases are never correct as one word: alot, alright, eachother, moreso, and nevermind (except, in the latter case, as the title of a certain album). (Alright is in the dictionary, and I’ve used it in this post, but those appearances are merely acknowledgments of its existence, not endorsements.) Everyday, meanwhile, is correct only as an adjective (as in the phrase â€Å"everyday savings†), not standing on its own (the correct treatment is â€Å"You’ll find savings every day†). Then there is a large class of words that, like everyday, are correctly closed in one grammatical form and open in another. For example, when one writes that one plans to work out, the verb phrase is treated correctly. But when describing what one plans to do, one refers to â€Å"doing a workout.† This is true of numerous verb-preposition phrases such as â€Å"log in,† â€Å"break down,† and â€Å"mark up† that become closed compounds when they serve as nouns. Note, however, that there are exceptions, including come-on, in which the compound is hyphenated as shown. (Such exceptions generally persist because of the aversion to having two consecutive vowels in a compound word.) Navigating such vagaries of the English language is annoying, but we are fortunate to have at our disposal dictionaries and other helpful resources. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Common Mistakes category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:50 Idioms About Legs, Feet, and ToesWhat is Dative Case?Epidemic vs. Pandemic vs. Endemic

RECOVERY OF PLATINUM GROUP METALS (PGMs) FROM SCRAPPED FUEL CELLS Research Paper

RECOVERY OF PLATINUM GROUP METALS (PGMs) FROM SCRAPPED FUEL CELLS - Research Paper Example Fuel cell technologies are the most appealing options to oil reliability. Fuel cell releases no pollutants and in reality give off pure water as a result. Although engineers are focusing on creating hydrogen from sources such as natural gas for the short-haul, the hydrogen program has strategies to concentrate on renewable, ecologically harmless means of producing hydrogen in the future. Highly dependable power is fundamental to many enterprises as well as residential societies. The United States loses $29 billion years from computer glitches because of power blackouts. Information centers, banks, hospitals amid others all depend on persistent power that is available nearly 100 percent. Many Fuel Cells operate on hydrogen and all will persist to produce electricity as long as oil is supplied. Nevertheless, the source of the hydrogen does not matter in many fuel cells. Since fuel cells do require to be connected to the electrical cabal, they are a variety of disseminated production th at permits to shift away from depending on high voltage central power production, which is susceptible to attacks and natural calamities (Sorensen 22-45). A fuel cell functioning on unpolluted hydrogen releases zero emissions at the source. Various fixed fuel cells use organic gas or hydrocarbons as hydrogen feedstock. Nevertheless, these usages generate far lesser emissions than traditional power stations. Founded on computed information, a fixed fuel cell power plant produces little less than one scrap of populace per kilowatt-hours of energy generated. Traditional ignition producing technologies generated twenty-pounds of emissions for the same measure of energy. Pollutants from fuel cells are so minimum that various regions of the U.S. have given exception fuel cells from air permitting regulations. Fuels cells have a long-standing reputation that their minimize noise pollution. Because fuel cells do not depend on ignition and very few moving components, they are incredibly sile nt. The only sound they make reaches approximately 60 decibels, the volume of an archetypal conversation. Because noise emissions are all but eradicated, fuel cells can be located at home or out-of-doors without being interfering. Furthermore, fuel cell electric vehicles are the slightest of all cars kinds that use fuel directly, releasing zero pollutants during usage. On the other hand, fuel cells could be utilized as supplementary power units to power air conditioners accessories. Since fuel cells produce electricity electrochemically, and do not combust fuel, they are essentially more productive than ignition techniques. Fuel cell method currently accomplishes 40-50% fuel-to-energy productivity utilizing hydrocarbons fuels such as s natural gas. When a fuel cell is positioned adjacent the point of electricity utilization, like in some fixed applications, the waste heat cab be tapped for coproduction (Srinivasan, 13-46). A fuel cell is an electrochemical machine that mixes oxygen and hydrogen to generate electricity. Usually, water and heat are its by-product. In its simplest nature, a solitary fuel comprises of two electrodes, including an anode and a cathode with an electrolyte among them. Hydrogen on the other hand chemically reacts with a catalyst at the anode. It is through this chemical reaction that a patron passes through the electrolyte, whereas the electron moves via a circuit, generating a

Types of Information Systems Used Within Organizations Essay

Types of Information Systems Used Within Organizations - Essay Example Information Systems have many different areas of work. These include Information Systems Management, Information Systems Strategy, and Information Systems Development. Information Systems Management is a system of collecting, processing, disseminating, and storing data in the form of information that is required to carry out functions of management. An Information Systems Strategy is a system used to assist and manage information to help in strategic decision making. The IT department of an organization partly focuses on the development of information technology in an organization. It governs the development of Information Systems that focus on the development, use, influence, and application on an organization or business. A computer-based Information System is a medium which is used for storing, recording, and spread linguistic expressions, and also drawing conclusions from these expressions. These systems are technologically implemented. There are many different types of Information Systems; some of these include Management Information Systems, Transaction Information Systems, Expert Systems, Decision Support Systems, and Business Intelligence Systems.

Business Plan Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Business Plan - Term Paper Example We exhibit a more consumer friendly corporate persona, which makes us more attractive for an economy conducive to socially responsible business ethics. Hence we offer â€Å"green† products and services that are environmentally safe. This helps our company define further separate ourselves as an identity unique from our competition. The current market for our products can be easily converted to our firm because we offer competitive products that offer unique advantages for our customers, their customers, and the environment. We predict that we will be able to reach a global consumer base of satisfied and loyal customers that could permanently establish our company as a major shareholder in the industry. Business Description Clean Wheels has the potential to be one of the leading car wash companies in the area. The market is becoming increasingly stagnant as the market for stand alone brick and motor car washes dominate the industry. Our business structure utilizes a nationalize d networking system where we are able to independently contract workers in different parts of the U.S. to wash peoples cars on demand at their specific locations. These washes can occur while they are at work or at home. This makes access to convenient car washes more accessible. The most interesting aspect of this company is that it is able to outsource the major cost of equipment to the individual contractors who will fulfill the service. While the company merely maintains a website and call center to process the orders for washes, the network that the site leverages helps decrease the overhead cost. The internet is growing as a medium for individuals to shop through which poses a significant business opportunity to our company. By capitalizing on generating leads, we are capable of creating a new layer in the existing market which allows us to profit from the logistical centralization of the sales framework. Moreover, we are going to mandate that our drivers use specific soaps an d cloths in order to represent the overall branding strategy of going green. Consumers are increasingly loyal to companies that make attempts to respect the environment amid fears of reaching a point of no return. Industry and Market Analysis Market Summary: The national market for car wash companies is becoming increasingly competitive as the industry becomes consolidated in major markets and segmented where there are lower population numbers. Moreover, the internet is becoming a major destination for shoppers. Especially for affluent individuals who are likely to be the heavy users of the service that we provide. While our end user is the consumer who gets their car detailed, our direct customers are the contractors who are going to wash the cars. This makes our company increasingly dynamic in terms of our ability to create competition within different regions by allowing individuals to bid for our contracts. Market Demographics The profile for Soapy Rides' target customer consist s of the following geographic,   demographic, and behavior factors: Demographics Male:   female- 63%: 37%.   The reason for this discrepancy in the male to female   ratio is due to the fact that men on average care more about   their automobiles.   The data indicates that men are more likely to dedicate a portion of the budget to their cars with   accessories. Additionally they are more likely to

Study On The Applications Of Numerical Analysis Computer Science Essay

Study On The Applications Of Numerical Analysis Computer Science Essay It finds applications in all fields of engineering and the physical sciences, but in the 21st  century, the life sciences and even the arts have adopted elements of scientific computations.  Ordinary differential equations  appear in the  movement of heavenly bodies (planets, stars and galaxies);  optimization  occurs in portfolio management;  numerical linear algebra  is important for data analysis;  stochastic differential equations  and  Markov chains  are essential in simulating living cells for medicine and biology. Before the advent of modern computers numerical methods often depended on hand  interpolation  in large printed tables. Since the mid 20th century, computers calculate the required functions instead. The interpolation  algorithms  nevertheless may be used as part of the software for solving  differential equations. INTRODUCTION TO NUMERICAL ANALYSIS AND METHODS The overall goal of the field of numerical analysis is the design and analysis of techniques to give approximate but accurate solutions to hard problems, the variety of which is suggested by the following. Advanced numerical methods are essential in making  numerical weather prediction  feasible. Computing the trajectory of a spacecraft requires the accurate numerical solution of a system of  ordinary differential equations. Car companies can improve the crash safety of their vehicles by using computer simulations of car crashes. Such simulations essentially consist of solving  partial differential equations  numerically. Hedge funds  (private investment funds) use tools from all fields of numerical analysis to calculate the value of stocks and derivatives more precisely than other market participants. Airlines use sophisticated optimization algorithms to decide ticket prices, airplane and crew assignments and fuel needs. This field is also called  operations research. Insurance companies use numerical programs for  actuarial  analysis. The rest of this section outlines several important themes of numerical analysis. History of Numerical Analysis The field of numerical analysis predates the invention of modern computers by many centuries.  Linear interpolation  was already in use more than 2000 years ago. Many great mathematicians of the past were preoccupied by numerical analysis, as is obvious from the names of important algorithms like  Newtons method,  Lagrange interpolation polynomial,Gaussian elimination, or  Eulers method. To facilitate computations by hand, large books were produced with formulas and tables of data such as interpolation points and function coefficients. Using these tables, often calculated out to 16 decimal places or more for some functions, one could look up values to plug into the formulas given and achieve very good numerical estimates of some functions. The canonical work in the field is the  NIST  publication edited by  Abramowitz and Stegun, a 1000-plus page book of a very large number of commonly used formulas and functions and their values at many points. The function values are no longer very useful when a computer is available, but the large listing of formulas can still be very handy. The  mechanical calculator  was also developed as a tool for hand computation. These calculators evolved into electronic computers in the 1940s, and it was then found that these computers were also useful for administrative purposes. But the invention of the computer also influenced the field of numerical analysis, since now longer and more complicated calculations could be done. Direct and iterative methods Direct methods compute the solution to a problem in a finite number of steps. These methods would give the precise answer if they were performed in  infinite precision arithmetic. Examples include  Gaussian elimination, the  QR  factorization method for solving  systems of linear equations, and the  simplex method  of  linear programming. In practice,  finite precision  is used and the result is an approximation of the true solution (assuming  stability). In contrast to direct methods,  iterative methods  are not expected to terminate in a number of steps. Starting from an initial guess, iterative methods form successive approximations that  converge  to the exact solution only in the limit. A  convergence test  is specified in order to decide when a sufficiently accurate solution has (hopefully) been found. Even using infinite precision arithmetic these methods would not reach the solution within a finite number of steps (in general). Examples include  Newtons method, the  bisection method, and  Jacobi iteration. In computational matrix algebra, iterative methods are generally needed for large problems. Iterative methods are more common than direct methods in numerical analysis. Some methods are direct in principle but are usually used as though they were not, e.g.  GMRES  and the  conjugate gradient method. For these methods the number of steps needed to obtain the exact solution is so large that an approximation is accepted in the same manner as for an iterative method. Discretization Furthermore, continuous problems must sometimes be replaced by a discrete problem whose solution is known to approximate that of the continuous problem; this process is called  discretization. For example, the solution of a  differential equation  is a function. This function must be represented by a finite amount of data, for instance by its value at a finite number of points at its domain, even though this domain is a continuum. Different Areas And Methods under Numerical Analysis The field of numerical analysis is divided into different disciplines according to the problem that is to be solved. One of the simplest problems is the evaluation of a function at a given point. The most straightforward approach, of just plugging in the number in the formula is sometimes not very efficient. For polynomials, a better approach is using the  Horner scheme, since it reduces the necessary number of multiplications and additions. Generally, it is important to estimate and control  round-off errors  arising from the use of  floating point  arithmetic. Interpolation, extrapolation, and regression Interpolation  solves the following problem: given the value of some unknown function at a number of points, what value does that function have at some other point between the given points? Extrapolation  is very similar to interpolation, except that now we want to find the value of the unknown function at a point which is outside the given points. Regression  is also similar, but it takes into account that the data is imprecise. Given some points, and a measurement of the value of some function at these points (with an error), we want to determine the unknown function. The  least squares-method is one popular way to achieve this. Solving equations and systems of equations Another fundamental problem is computing the solution of some given equation. Two cases are commonly distinguished, depending on whether the equation is linear or not. For instance, the equation  2x  + 5 = 3  is linear while  22  + 5 = 3  is not. Much effort has been put in the development of methods for solving  systems of linear equations. Standard direct methods, i.e., methods that use some  matrix decomposition  are  Gaussian elimination,  LU decomposition,  Cholesky decomposition  for  symmetric  (or  hermitian) and  positive-definite matrix, and  QR decomposition  for non-square matrices.  Iterative methods  such as the  Jacobi method,  Gauss-Seidel method,  successive over-relaxation  and  conjugate gradient method  are usually preferred for large systems. Root-finding algorithms  are used to solve nonlinear equations (they are so named since a root of a function is an argument for which the function yields zero). If the function is  differentiable  and the derivative is known, then  Newtons method  is a popular choice.  Linearization  is another technique for solving nonlinear equations. Solving eigenvalue or singular value problems Several important problems can be phrased in terms of  eigenvalue decompositions  or  singular value decompositions. For instance, thespectral image compression  algorithm  is based on the singular value decomposition. The corresponding tool in statistics is calledprincipal component analysis. Optimization Optimization problems ask for the point at which a given function is maximized (or minimized). Often, the point also has to satisfy someconstraints. The field of optimization is further split in several subfields, depending on the form of the objective function and the constraint. For instance,  linear programming  deals with the case that both the objective function and the constraints are linear. A famous method in linear programming is the  simplex method. The method of  Lagrange multipliers  can be used to reduce optimization problems with constraints to unconstrained optimization problems. Evaluating integrals Numerical integration, in some instances also known as numerical  quadrature, asks for the value of a definite  integral. Popular methods use one of the  Newton-Cotes formulas  (like the midpoint rule or  Simpsons rule) or  Gaussian quadrature. These methods rely on a divide and conquer strategy, whereby an integral on a relatively large set is broken down into integrals on smaller sets. In higher dimensions, where these methods become prohibitively expensive in terms of computational effort, one may use  Monte Carlo  or  quasi-Monte Carlo methods  (see  Monte Carlo integration), or, in modestly large dimensions, the method of  sparse grids. Differential equations Numerical analysis is also concerned with computing (in an approximate way) the solution of  differential equations, both ordinary differential equations and  partial differential equations. Partial differential equations are solved by first discretizing the equation, bringing it into a finite-dimensional subspace. This can be done by a  finite element method, a  finite differencemethod, or (particularly in engineering) a  finite volume method. The theoretical justification of these methods often involves theorems from  functional analysis. This reduces the problem to the solution of an algebraic equation. Applications Of Numerical Analysis Methods and Its Real Life Implementations, Advantages Etc. NEWTON RAPHSON METHOD: ORDER OF CONVERGENCE: 2 ADVANTAGES: 1. The advantage of the method is its order of convergence is quadratic. 2. Convergence rate is one of the fastest when it does converges 3. Linear convergence near multiple roots. REGULA FALSI METHOD: ORDER OF CONVERGENCE: 1.618 ADVANTAGES: 1. Better-than-linear convergence near simple root 2. Linear convergence near multiple root 3. No derivative needed DISADVANTAGES 1. Iterates may diverge 2. No practical rigorous error bound GAUSS ELIMINATION METHOD: ADVANTAGES: It is the direct method of solving linear simultaneous equations. 2. It uses back substitution. 3. It is reduced to equivalent upper triangular matrix.: 1. It requires right vectors to be known. GAUSS JORDAN: ADVANTAGES: 1. It is direct method. 2. The roots of the equation are found immediately without using back substitution. . It is reduced to equivalent identity matrix. The additional steps increase round off errors. 2. It requires right vectors to be known. GAUSS JACOBI METHOD: 1. It is iterative method. 2. The system of equations must be diagonally dominant. 3. It suits better for large numbers of unknowns 4. It is self correcting method. GAUSS SEIDEL METHOD: 1. It is iterative method. 2. The system of equations must be diagonally dominant. 3. It suits better for large numbers of unknowns 4. It is self correcting method. 5. The number of iterations is less than Jacobi method. Real life Applications Area of mathematics and computer science. Applications of algebra Geometry Calculus Variables which vary continuously. Problems(application areas) 1. Natural sciences 2. Social sciences 3. Engineering 4. Medicine 5. Business.(in financial industry) Tools of numerical analysis Most powerful tools of numerical analysis à  Computer graphics à  Symbolic mathematical computations à  Graphical user interfaces Numerical analysis is needed to solve engineering problems that lead to equations that cannot be solved analytically with simple formulas. Examples are solutions of large  systems  of algebraic equations, evaluation of integrals, and solution of differential equations. The finite element method is a numerical method that is in widespread use to solve partial differential equations in a variety of engineering fields including stress analysis, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and electro-magnetic fields. In hydro static pressure processing In high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) processing, food and biotechnological substances are compressed up to 1000 M Pa to achieve various pressure-induced conversions such as microbial and enzyme inactivations, phase transitions of proteins, and solid-liquid state transitions. From the point of view of thermodynamics, Heat transfer leads to space-time-dependent temperature fields that affect many pressure-induced conversions and produce undesired process non uniformities Effects related to HHP processing can be studied appropriately by use of numerical analysis because in situ measurement techniques are barely available, optical accessibility is hardly possible, and technical equipment is expensive. This reports on two examples, where numerical analysis is applied successfully and delivers substantial insights into the phenomenon of high-pressure processing. Calculation E.g TSP problem (traveling salesman problem) to travel no. of cities in such a way that the expenses on traveling are minimized. à   NP-complete problem. à   optimal solution we have to go through all possible routes à   numbers of routes increases exponential with the numbers of cities. Modern Applications and Computer Software Sophisticated numerical analysis software is being embedded in popular software packages e.g. spreadsheet programs. Buisness Applications:- Modern business makes much use of optimization methods in deciding how to allocate resources most efficiently. These include problems such as inventory control,scheduling, how best to locate manufacturing storage facilities, investment strategies,and others. In Financial Industry Quantitative analysts developing financial applications have specialized expertise in their area of analysis. Algorithms used for numerical analysis range from basic numerical functions to calculate interest income to advanced functions that offer specialized optimization and forecasting techniques. Sample Finance Applications Three common examples from the financial services industry that require numerical algorithms are: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Portfolio selection à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Option pricing à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Risk management   In market Given the broad range of numerical tools available a financial services provider can develop targeted applications that address specific market needs. For example, quantitative analysts developing financial applications have specialized expertise in their area of analysis.

Religion and Belief in Bless Me Ultima Essay -- Bless Me Ultima

Religion and Belief in Bless Me Ultima   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  After reading the book, Bless Me Ultima, I realized the integral importance of religion and need for religion and answers to life’s questions. At first, while reading this book, I thought it was just about relationships and the meaning in them but as the plot progressed I realized the book, is more than that, it questions the structures that decide the rules, morals and values that society is composed of. There were three types of religion that I identified in the book that young Anthony chose to pursue. The first was the paganistic rituals of Ultima. Ultima came into the life of Tony at a very young age and had great influence n the child. Ultima saved the life of Lucas through Tony’s strength. Physical pain was brought unto Anthony because of Ultima's ritual, showing actual validity of the rituals themselves, that they were had tangibility. She brought torment on the Tenorio’s family (he was the antagonist in the book-the bad guy) saving Luc as though using ritualistic dolls and chants. This showed her magic was not only good but bad as well. Ultima guided Anthony through all of the mental and social torment during his early years of grade school. So in away Ultima was a guide for Tony through his early years to make sense of all of the storms in his early life, but also was an instrument of religion to base his life on. But in the end of the book Ultima ultimately dies and the strength he once found in her is destroyed. She is ...