Genetically Modified Grain Essay - 3270 Words

Genetically Modified Grain Thesis: Genetically Modified Grain has many benefits and problems which have become very controversial. While these problems need to be addressed, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. GMO grain should be grown and foods containing them should not be required to bare a label. Introduction Genetically improved crops are not a new phenomenon. Plants have been selectively crossbred for centuries to develop heartier and more productive hybrids. Now, Biotechnology offers us the ability to transfer desired traits into plants much faster and more selectively by merely transplanting the desired gene into the grain. Genetically Modified Grain (GMO grain) is now available to the public. It has the potential to†¦show more content†¦This protein is not toxic to humans; it is broken down in the digestive system. Bt corn does not completely eliminate the need for insecticides, but greatly helps. In 1997, 4.5 million acres were planted to Bt. hybrids (Beeler, 1998). Today, 30 to 40% of corn and 50% of soybeans are GMO crops (Hein, 1999). This is quite a substantial percentage of our crops considering that many consider the existence of GMO crops to still be controversial. More than thirty genetically engineered plants are permitted for sale by law world wide (Hein, 1999). Knutson, Texas AM professor, estimates that we will not be able to feed the global population in the next 50 years unless we continue to increase crop production. In fact, we must triple farm output over the next 50 years to meet growing demands for food (American...1999). Biotechnology offers farmers capability to significantly increase yields without sacrificing huge tracts of forests and wetlands to low-yield crops and pasture. We can not significantly increase yields without the helping hand of technology. Without the use of pesticides we could not have met global food demands for the past 50 years. Before pesticide introduction rice yields were down by 57% and corn was down 32% (Knutson, 1999). Insect-protected corn allows American farmers to increase their yields between 5 and 20% (Gallivan, 1999). With GMO seeds, anyone who can plant a seedShow MoreRelatedGenetically Modified Organisms : An Organism1471 Words   |  6 PagesIn today’s world, genetically modifying organisms is a very common practice in the world of science. Scientists are genetically modifying a variety of different organisms, including a number of different plants, foods, medicines, and animals. To genetically modify an organism, the genetic structure of the organism has to be changed (Goldbas, 2014). The main purpose of genetically modifying an organism is to change something genetically about the function of a particular part of the organism. ThisRead MoreGood Or Bad? ( Parent Vs O Leary Debate1639 Words   |  7 PagesGMFs: Good Or Bad? (Parent vs O’Leary Debate) Genetically modified foods, known as GMFs, are an extremely controversial subject. By definition, GMO’s are, â€Å"organisms whose genome has been altered by the techniques of genetic engineering so that its DNA contains one or more genes not normally found there.† Scientists genetically engineer these foods to, for example, contain an additional vitamin or weather withstanding qualities. Relatively recently, Kevin O’Leary, who was in favor of GMFs, and RachelRead MoreThe Controversial Issue Of Public Health Issue725 Words   |  3 PagesPraphul Joshi 10/23/2013 Controversial Public Health Issue There are several controversial issues confronting us today; from Universal Healthcare (Obama Care) to Stem Cell research, to vaccinations, to genetically engineered (GE)/genetically modified (GM) foods. However, I shall look at genetically modified foods as the controversial issue for this article. I shall look at an article from the mass media about this controversial public health issue and place emphasis on the message the document wants toRead MoreAshley Ligonde. Writing In Health Diseases. Professor Eicher.850 Words   |  4 PagesAshley Ligonde Writing in Health Diseases Professor Eicher Food Essay I believe that the government should remove GMO’s and all genetically modified products off the market. A genetically modified organism, or GMO, is an organism that has had its DNA altered or modified in some way through genetic engineering. Even though they are beneficial, they cause a lot of bad side effects. Some of the effects are harmful to environment and to human beings. The effects of GMOs can affect us long term if weRead MoreEssay about Biotechnology Seed Agreeance 831 Words   |  4 Pagesdifferent types of the seeds, they are all have special names to classify what they do. The crops are now able to produce more grain when they grow which create better yields. Weather effects on the crops will be decreased because they can now grow stronger and better to withstand harsh weather conditions . Bacteria and fungi can break down a crop and make it useless not growing any grain, making the crop sick, or dead. With improved seed methods they can make the crops where they can withstand these bacteriaRead MoreEnvironmental And Consumer Organizations Protest Against Genetic Engineering1495 Words   |  6 Pages1990s, when genetically modified organisms became available, its consumption has been increasing rapidly (Nelson, 2001). The most common genetically modified crops include corn, sugar, cotton, dairy, rice, potatoes and tomatoes. There are opponents and supporters of GMO alike. Environmental and consumer organizations protest against genetic engineering claiming that the GMO foods bring risks to human health. On the supporting side, it is believed that the use of genetically modified crops providesRead MoreThe Food And Drug Administration898 Words   |  4 Pagessuch as fruits, vegetables, grains, and their byproducts, derived from plant varieties developed by the new methods of genetic modification are regulated within the existing framework of the act† (FDA). In other words, instead of creating new regulations that are specific to these completely unique food products, they are put within the umbrella of other â€Å"natural† products. As time passes it appears to be harder to establish strict regulations to manage genetically modified food. According to the CenterRead MoreGenetically And Genetically Modified Foods822 Words   |  4 PagesGenetically Modified Foods What is it that we are eating? GMO’s are unnatural. Is it healthy to eat something that doesn’t belong in our digestive system? GMO’s are genetically modified food. Genetically modified foods are created by taking genes from plants and animals and inserting into our food to alter the genetic engineering. In 1984, GMO’s were first introduced when a plant was modified from antibiotic resistant tobacco. In 1994, genetically modifying food was approved by the FDA and theRead MoreWe The People Of The People’S Republic Of China Established820 Words   |  4 Pagesdiet, we have found genetically modified organisms, or GMOs to be of value. A genetically modified organism (GMO, also known as a genetically engineered organism) is defined as â€Å"any living organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques (i.e., a genetically engineered organism),† as stated by Cartagena protocol on Biosafety. Our nation is the main consumer of genetically modified grains. As a whole, our country uses up â…“ of the world’s grains. Our government isRead MoreGenetically Modified Organism For Commercial Sale1372 Words   |  6 PagesFood and Drug Administration approved the first genetically modified organism for commercial sale, which was the Flavr Savr delayed ripening tomato (DNAP CONSULTS WITH FDA†¦ N.P) DNAP sold however to Monsanto the maker’s roundup and they have the bad reputation as one of the manufacturers Agent Orange and DDT in the past, Fernandez and the team summarize research from the scientific consensus of genetically modified organism in the article Ge netically engineered crops in the United States publish

Managing Resources - 1271 Words

Developing amp; Managing Resources The learning resource I have chosen is actually also used as an ice breaker for a lesson and then used to build on students communication, reading and understanding skills. The task is used to put students under a time constraint to complete a task of ready and answering simple and possibly trick questions in a short time frame. This resource is not used in a way to trick students but used to then get them to reflect on their ready and interpretation of a question. For example, the first part of the document tell them what they must do and this also asks them to use the space before the number to write their answers. Many students do not do this and proceed to write their answers at the end of the†¦show more content†¦They enjoy observing others and will listen to their views before offering their own. Theorists adapt and integrate observations into complex and logically sound theories. They think problems through in a step by step way. They tend to be perfectionists who like to fit things into a rational scheme. They tend to be detached and analytical rather than subjective or emotive in their thinking. Activists like to be involved in new experiences. They are open minded and enthusiastic about new ideas but get bored with implementation. They enjoy doing things and tend to act first and consider the implications afterwards. They like working with others but tend to hog the limelight. And finally; Pragmatists are keen to try things out. They want concepts that can be applied to their job. They tend to be impatient with lengthy discussions and are practical and down to earth. The one good thing about this resource is as long as I have it on paper to hand out (good planning) I don’t need any other resource or technology. I have used this learning resource as a back up lesson in the past when either our computer systems have gone down, or I have arrived at a venue that does not have ICT facilities of some way of showing resources on a smart board or projector. This learning resource is shared out so widely. As mentioned earlier many students ask for a copy to take away with them so I ensure I always have spares to hand to give out and share the experience. EvenShow MoreRelatedManaging Human Resources1010 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿P.1.1 This assissment is going to be about Human Resource Management and it’s going to contain information about different perspectives of human resources management and what the role involves. . HRM system is based on HR system , both work together to the same way. The example is HR strategies defining the direction in which HRM intends to go. We got few models of HRM , one I want to describe is Guest’s Model of HRM. David Guest’s model of HRM has 6 dimensions of analysis : HRM strategy HRMRead MoreManaging Human Resources3895 Words   |  16 PagesAssignment On Managing Human Resources Task | Table of contents | Page | Introduction | 04 | Task 01 | 1.1 Explain Guest’s model of HRM as applicable to the above company. | 05 | | 1.2 Compare the differences between Storey’s definitions of HRM, personnel and IR practices in the above context. | 05 | | 1.3 Assess the implications for line managers and employees of developing a strategic approach to HRM in a company like Unilever. | 06 | Task 02 | 2.1 ExplainRead MoreManaging Human Resources4517 Words   |  19 Pagesï » ¿ Managing Human Resources Contents Introduction 1 Task 1 1 1.1 The Guest’s model of Human Resource Management 1 1.2 The differences between Story’s definitions of HRM, personnel and Industrial Relations (IR) practices: 3 1.3 The implications of developing a strategic approach to HRM for line managers and employees in organizations 5 Task2 6 2.1 A model of flexibility is applied in my organization 6 2.2 The types of flexibility developed in myRead MoreManaging Global Human Resources2493 Words   |  10 PagesMANAGING GLOBAL HUMAN RESOURCES The environment in which business competes is rapidly becoming globalized. More and more companies are entering international markets by exporting their products overseas, building plants in other countries, and entering into alliances with foreign companies. Global competition is driving changes in organizations throughout the world. Companies are attempting to gain a competitive advantage, which can be provided by international expansion. Deciding whether to enterRead MoreThe Managing Human Resources Class1032 Words   |  5 PagesThe Managing Human Resources class has been a great experience for me. My perception of HR has changed since we started the class. In the beginning of class, I thought all HR departments were the same as the only one I’ve ever experienced throughout my career; which happens to be with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). I now understand HR can be much more and TWRA’s HR is not providing many of the services it could be. Unfo rtunately, TWRA’s HR is only delivering functional expertiseRead MoreManaging Human Resource Management And Its Environment1654 Words   |  7 PagesManaging Human Resources In the book Fundamentals of Human Resource Management Sixth Edition by Noe, Hollenbeck, Gerhart and Wright, chapter one managing human resources gives an outline of human resource management, also known as (HRM), and its environment. Chapter one talks about the understanding, company performance, responsibilities, skills, ethics, and careers of human resource management. Many may know what HRM stands for, human resource management, but do we really know the true meaningRead MoreCase Study : Managing Human Resource1966 Words   |  8 PagesCase Study for Managing Human Resource Case study for Managing Human Resource Harrods is a brand that is recognised all over the world. Its Knightsbridge store has 1 million square feet of selling space with over 330 different departments. Its global reputation and prestige is instilled through its brand values. Brand values represent what an organisation stands for. Harrods values are – British; Luxury; Service; Innovation and Sensation. This case study demonstrates the integral role that Harrods’Read More Managing Global Human Resources Essay2450 Words   |  10 Pagescountries is no simple matter and many human resource issues surface. (Noe, Hollenbeck, Gerhart, and Wright; 534) Doing business globally requires that adaptations be made to reflect cultural and other factors that differ from country to country and from continent to continent. The nature and stability of political systems vary in character and stability, with contracts suddenly becoming unenforceable because of internal political factors. Human resource regulations and laws vary among countriesRead MoreManaging International Human Resource Management1860 Words   |  8 Pagescreated the need for International Human Resource Management (IHRM) roles (Scullion, 2001). Human resource management is progressively becoming a major factor that can determine the success or failure of MNC’s. Scullion (2001) concluded that HR strategies play a vital role in implementation and control in MNC’s, and alignment between HR strategies and the organisational structure of MNC’s often results in superior outcomes. In order to strive, human resources must be managed effectively to gain a compe titiveRead MoreNotes On Managing Human Resource Essay1095 Words   |  5 PagesWord Count: 938 Managing Human Resource 1.0 The Background of Company X Company X is one of the largest convenience chain stores in the world, which owns over 60,000 stores in 18 different countries among Americas, Europe, East and Southeast Asia and so on. The aim of the Company X is to delivery superb services to customers with healthy and safety products in 24 hours of seven days in a week. Having been worked in this Japanese style stores for almost a year and a half, I find there are some management

Kmart Performance Management Tactics Free Essays

Kmart- Performance Management Tactics More than one hundred years ago, Sebastian Spering Kresge opened a modest five-and-dime store in downtown Detroit and changed the entire landscape of retailing. The store that Kresge built has evolved into an empire of more than 1,500 stores and an Internet presence that reaches millions of customers. Overall, Kmart’s workforce is highly diverse. We will write a custom essay sample on Kmart: Performance Management Tactics or any similar topic only for you Order Now Kmart’s total associate population, including store managers, reflects the communities it serves. Almost 32 percent of its workforce represents multicultural minorities. (â€Å"Kmart Corporation† 2008, Funding Universe) Nation’s second largest retailer made an effort in the past few years to execute headquarters’ strategy at the store level, at least in housewares, Kmart can report some success stories. Accurate category management can â€Å"even the playing field and eliminate the gulf of mistrust that sometimes exists between vendor/broker and retailer,† said Ron Gellish, director of strategic market planning for Kmart. Discount Store News, May 1995) Performance Management Tactics; first step is to review the category, make sure both the retailer and vendor agree on a source for data and that both understand terminology and methodology. A. – Agree on the goal of the project, be it volume increase or profit gain. B. – Assess the category’s unit and dollar volume growth rates over the past two years, both by retail trade channel an d on a national basis. C. – Determine the market shares for brands in the category and identify any areas ripe for cannibalization. Specifically, Gellish recommended that partners aggregate UPCs by vendor to gauge impact. For instance, the top brand could be from a small vendor, while the next four brands could be from a megacorporation. D. – Be aware of which products are trending up and which are slowing down. â€Å"Maintain objectivity. Be ready to pull your items if the data suggests they are performing poorly–don’t just try to delist your competition,† Gellish. (Discount Store News, May 1995) Products must first earn approval from Kmart’s Quality Assurance and Technical Design Laboratory, and vendors that want to be thought of favorably by Kmart should participate in the retailer’s â€Å"Partners for Quality† and/or â€Å"Partners in Merchandise Flow† programs. (Discount Store News, May 1995) How to cite Kmart: Performance Management Tactics, Essays

Declaration and Fill Return Investment

Question: Describe about the Declaration and Fill Return Investment. Answer: Lecturing income of S$ 45,000. Lecturing income earned in a private institution in Singapore is income earned in Singapore. Though the income is deposited in a foreign bank account, it regarded as income earned for working in Singapore. Therefore, the income will be taxed and you will be required to make it declaration and fill return. Employment salary earned overseas is not taxed and there is no need to declare. The amount earned from Vietnam by Leonard is not income earned in Singapore though it was received in a Singapore Bank (Minns, 2010). The rental income earned from a property in Australia is only taxed in Australia .This is as a result of the Double Taxation Agreement between Australia and Singapore that remove incidences of individuals being taxed in both countries. The Big Sweep winning is not regarded as income, therefore it not taxed under the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore. It does not require declaration. Tax liabilities for Leonard Ongs royalties income Amount earned S$52520 Less expense Printing and stationary $15500 Advertisements $ 8600 Legal fees $ 2480 Net income S$ 25940 10% of gross royalty income; 10% *52520= $ 5252 Leonard will pay S$5252 for the Royalties received in the year 2015 because they are lower compared to tax liabilities calculated as 22% of net income of royalties Leonard Income from rental properties for 2016; Rental income for property 1 Rental income $ 4500*12 =54000 Less allowable expenses Property tax 330*12= 3960 Maintenance fee 190*12= 2280 Repairs 1600 Taxable income 46160 Rental income for property 2 Rental income $ 3600*9= $ 32400 Less allowable expenses Property tax 280*9= 2520 Maintenance fee 130*9 = 1170 Renovation 15000 Taxable income $ 13710 Calculation for the share option benefit Bought option shares at S$ 3.50 on July Sold at S$ 5 Benefits [5-3.5]100000 = $ 150000 Tax relief for Leonard Ong Leonard is entitled to S$1000 tax relief for the income earned in Singapore. This relief is to respect of age that is allowed to all employees of age below 55 years. 2. I) In case Leonard contracts critical illness, both life term and whole life insurance policies will be used to payout but in specified sections. He will be paid S$700000 for contracting the illness from the Life term insurance policy. It is within this policy that Leonard has insured against contracting illness. The other policy from the Whole life insurance covers against critical illness only which can be associated with leading to contraction. In this case, he has suffered against accelerated critical illness that has been contracted and he will receive S$70000 pay out from the policy. Therefore, Leonard will receive S$770000 in total form both policies as a result of contracting. Both insurance policies will be valid to payout in this case. S$700000- for contacting major illness S$70000-for accelerated critical illness Total payout-S$700000+S$70000=S$770000 ii) In case Leonard dies in the next year, his beneficiaries will receive payouts from both insurance policies. Leonard will be compensated for both critical illness and for death occurrence. Therefore, they will receive a total of S$2472000 payout from all insurance policies on claim. Also the mortgage term insurance cover for the condominium will be paid out at a discount of 1.5% p.a. Both insurance companies will pay the sum assured since there is no breach of the life insurance policy (Reuvid, 2012). The Term insurance will pay S$ 800000 while the Whole life insurance will pay S$ 90000. S$700000- for contracting critical illness S$70000-for accelerated critical illness S$800000-for life term sum insured S$90000-for whole life sum insured S$812000-for loan insured S$800000+S$90000+S$70000+S$700000+S$812000=S$2472000 Annual compound rate of Leonard from 3 unit trust; Trust A bought 3.60 market value 3.0= -0.60= 3.00/3.60-1=-0.167 Trust B bought 4.70 market value 6.60= 6.60/4.70-1=0.40 Trust C bought at 5.30 market value 8.70= 8.70/5.30-1=0.64 Total compound benefits = -0.16+0.40+0.64=0.88 Percentage gain/ loss from Trust investments; Trust Unit A =3.00/3.60-1=-0.167*100= -16.7% Trust Unit B = 6.60/4.70-1=0.40*100= 40% Trust Unit C= 8.70/5.30-1=0.64*100=64% Total percentage = -16.7%+40%+64%= 88% 3. Though there no provisions in law for wifes maintenance duties toward her husband, in instances of death they exercise duties of maintenance. Wifes has a duty to pay debts and expenses that the husband is obliged to have. She is supposed to verify and settle them as they fall due. Secondly, wifes have a duty to take care of the properties that the husband had accumulated. It the duty of the wife to protect and maintain the existence and continuity of her husbands properties left behind at the time of death. Third, it is the duty of the wife to represent her husband in court cases that the husband left uncompleted. And the fourth duty is to distribute property to the husbands children as the trustee and custodian of the inheritance. The wife has the duty to divide the inheritance of her husband to the children when they reach age of the majority. The age can either be defined on the will or the legal majority age defined in the constitution. ii) Husbands are bound to wife maintenance in respect to terms agreements or court orders. Husband is required by law to maintain their wife and former wifes if divorced. The husband is required to maintain his former wife needs either as a lump sum or periodic. The needs are calculated on the financial needs of the former wife. If the wife has children, the husband is bound to maintenance till the children are of majority age. In most cases where the former wife is allowed share of marital assets by the court, the maintenance costs to the husband are reduced. Therefore, husbands are bound to the maintenance responsibility to their wife legally. In the case of Leonard, he is bound to maintain his former two ex- wives. He pays S$200 to the first wife and S$150 to the second wife as alimony for the marriage they shared with Leonard. b) Settlor- Leonard Ongs lawyer is the settler of the Trust. It is from this lawyer that the trust is legally bidding. He proposed the enactment of the trust. Therefore the lawyer is the settler of the Leonard Trust. Trustee- Koh Wai Eng is the Trustee of the Leonard Ongs Trust. She is the woman that Leonard was looking forward to marry on August. Koh Wai Eng is entrusted with the Leonards property for pay debts and expenses as they fall due. She is also entrusted with dividing the property to Leonards children when they turn 21year of age. Beneficiaries- kon Wai Eng who is also the trustee, is the current beneficiary. She will be privileged to own the properties for the years till Leonards children are of majority age. Lynette On, Bridget Ong and Daphne Ong are the beneficiaries of the Trust. Three who are children to Leonard are bestowed as beneficiaries of their fathers inheritance which they will get on attainment of 21 years of age. C). i) The Intestate Succession Act Chapter 146 section 7 will be used to distribute Leonard Ongs estate. Leonard did not leave a will but left a spouse and children. It is from this law that the estate of Leonard will be determined on how to be distributed among the beneficiaries. According to Baiross (2016), in absence of a will, law will take course to distribute estate in a predetermined equitable manner. ii) The following persons will be entitled to Leonard Estate; Kon Wai Eng, Lynette Ong Daphene Ong Bridget Ong Lynette Ong, Daphne Ong, Bridget Ong are the children of Leonard and will be entitled to half share of the estate (Tan Tan, 2011). According to the Intestate law, the spouse will take and the children the other of the total estates that were not indicated in a will. References Baiross, M. (2016). In the absence of a will, how is the deceased's estate distributed? | SingaporeLegalAdvice.com. SingaporeLegalAdvice.com. Retrieved 23 September 2016, from https://singaporelegaladvice.com/law-articles/in-the-absence-of-a-will-how-is-the-deceased-estate-distributed/ Beach, J. (2016). Singapore-Australia Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) | Brief Overview. Guidemesingapore.com. Retrieved 23 September 2016, from https://www.guidemesingapore.com/taxation/double-tax-treaties/singapore-australia-dta Deductions for Individuals (Reliefs, Expenses, Donations) - IRAS. (2016). Iras.gov.sg. Retrieved 23 September 2016, from https://www.iras.gov.sg/irashome/Individuals/Locals/Working-Out-Your-Taxes/Deductions-for-Individuals--Reliefs--Expenses--Donations-/ GAHVARI, F. (2014). Second-Best Taxation of Incomes and Non-Labor Inputs in a Model with Endogenous Wages. Journal Of Public Economic Theory, 16(6), 917-935. https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/jpet.12088 Intestate Succession Act. (2016). Nslegislature.ca. Retrieved 23 September 2016, from https://nslegislature.ca/legc/statutes/intestat.htm Joulfaian, D. Inheritance and Saving. SSRN Electronic Journal. https://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.909307 Minns, S. (2010). The 2010 guide to private banking and wealth management in Asia. London: Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC. Overseas Income Received in Singapore - IRAS. (2016). Iras.gov.sg. Retrieved 23 September 2016, from https://www.iras.gov.sg/IRASHome/Individuals/Locals/Working-Out-Your-Taxes/What-is-Taxable-What-is-Not/Overseas-Income-Received-in-Singapore/ Reuvid, J. (2009). The handbook of personal wealth management. London: Kogan Page. Reuvid, J. (2012). The handbook of personal wealth management. London: Kogan Page. Singapore Statutes Online - 146 - Intestate Succession Act. (2016). Statutes.agc.gov.sg. Retrieved 23 September 2016, from https://statutes.agc.gov.sg/aol/search/display/view.w3p;page=0;query=DocId%3A9ce463a4-f756-40c3-8503-9de6a25884c0%20%20Status%3Ainforce%20Depth%3A0;rec=0 Tan, C. Tan, C. (2011). Financial services and wealth management in Singapore. Singapore: Ridge Books.

To live a purposeful life, you need a clear VISION free essay sample

If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you’ll certainly be right†¦ (Steve Jobs) †¢If today was my last day in my life, would I do what I am about to do today? †¢If the answer is â€Å"NO† for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something. †¢All external expectation, fear, pride, embarrassment and almost everything falls away in the face of the ending of a life, leaving what is truly important †¢No one wants to die,†¦but even if I lived, I live as if this life is a gift lent to me, which I shall someday exchange for another purer life †¢Do not shrink your inner voice at the altar of others’ noise and false reports†¦somewhere in your heart, God has placed a treasure which only you can dig out and benefit from. †¢To dig this treasure will take you a while. We will write a custom essay sample on To live a purposeful life, you need a clear VISION or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page You will have to plan to know exactly what it is, and exactly where it is. You’ll have to have the right crew by your side. †¢This treasure, planning, journey and digging is what I am calling VISION†¦ Vision is not only the power to see, but also of foresight and imagination. Even the visually impaired have this power†¦the ability to see and comprehend beyond what their brains could interpret as optical data. Human beings have the ability to translate words and instructions imaginatively. We are able to draw mental pictures more clearly than we can even draw on paper or explain verbally. The greatest gift is not the ability to see, but this ability of vision. God put dreams where we cannot miss them. Because of vision, I am the best raw material to myself. A vision is a supernatural appearance, which only a supernatural ability can make comprehendible and tangible. †¢Where there is no vision, people perish†¦Prov 29:18 †¢My people perish because of lack of knowledge†¦Hosea 4:6 †¢Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine according to His power that is at work within us†¦Ephesians 3:20 †¢Prov 1:7 and 9:10†¦The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge/ wisdom. †¢Habakkuk 2:2†¦write the vision down†¦though it tarry’s, it shall come to pass †¢Do not despise the days of your humble beginnings†¦Job 8:7 VISION PART II By Dominic Khaemba From: The Ageless Note-book Teach me oh Lord to number my days that I may gain a heart of wisdom and lead a fulfilling life to you, myself, family and friends†¦Psalms 90:12 This section will make a stronger connection if you read it as a follow-up to part I. You can never remember what you never knew, and you can never apply what you cannot remember. As the world changes and perfects the struggles and the suffering that we face; as the world changes and justifies the insignificance of individual strength by being too complicated and fast; many people find themselves feeling impatient, hopeless and unworthy: When this happens, you need a reminder that you are still on a journey, and that your best days are ahead. But you cannot tell if you’re your best days are ahead if you have nothing to look forward to. This is where a vision for your life comes in as the ability to anticipate future events, touch them and believe in them as if they were real. Also, you will need a reminder of what your future plans are†¦but since you cannot remember what you never knew, you therefore come back to Knowledge as; a clear awareness and information gained through devoted study and Experience. This knowledge is what you shall apply in preparing for your future and this preparedness is what keeps us from despairing too quickly when overwhelmed by circumstances around us. Our creative imagination also plays a big part in determining how far God chooses to bless us. If we do not use this faculty to envision better lives for ourselves in the future, we limit God in terms of how much He also decides to bestow on us. Eph 3:20. Knowledge does two important things. It distinguishes us from fools and it is a sure preservative of our lives. But the knowledge acquired in the boundaries of God’s instruction is the one that is able to do this. Otherwise, this knowledge is useless†¦and can quickly turn our hearts into pride. Pride goes before a fall. From the verses above, without knowledge and vision, we perish. Without creative imagination, we receive little from God. It is only in the fear of the Lord that our knowledge can begin to yield better lives for us and the people around us. Living as you move towards your dreams is a life full of joy and peace in dimensions and depths one can never experience otherwise. With a sense of calling, †¢MY VISION IS ENLARGED THROUGH IMAGINATION and this way, †¢I won’t MIND THE SMALL SACRIFICES that I have to make as part of the journey. Personal inventory A personal inventory is a way to store up our vision. Habakkuk 2:2 says write the vision down. Though it tarry’s, it shall surely come to pass. Write it so that whoever reads it may run with it/ facilitate your attaining of that vision. Keep a personal inventory in a journal. This is among the questions you may ask yourself as you do so. 1.What is my calling? †¢The thing is to find ideas which allow me to power all my experiences, gifts and talents, all my wisdom and knowledge A calling is a duty to which one attaches special importance and devotes special care. It must be strong enough to allow me to combine a)Talent harnessed by discipline b)Passion paired with hard work c)Love united with commitment d)Consistency which wipes away complacency If you are leaving your calling, you exude an enjoyment and connection to the gifts that transcends the recognition, fame and fortune you may receive for expressing those talents. †¢If you find the thing which you can do for free, simply for the fulfillment of doing it, you have found your calling.

Chopin Kate essays

Chopin Kate essays Kate Chopins Symbolic Use of Nature Kate Chopin uses nature and symbolism throughout her three short stories. Her vivid use of nature and its elements allow the reader to get a realistic view of the characters and their setting. By using nature to represent the feelings of her characters, Chopin allows the reader to evoke emotions they might have felt during similar times or situations. A simple example of symbolism would be the use a dark forest in a story. The dark forest could possible represent evil or confusion (1380). Like the example Chopin uses a specific season like spring or naturally occurring thunderstorms to symbolize new life or uncontrollable passion. In the first story the reader encounters Babette and Maman-Nainaine. Quickly the reader learns that Babette is waiting for the figs to ripen before she is allowed to visit her cousins. Figs have little if nothing to do with Babette being able to leave, but instead they symbolize her coming of age. Figs tend to ripen in late spring to early summer. Spring and summer are times of life and growth. So Babette is like a ripening fig that has to grow and mature before its ready. Finally when the figs ripen Maman-Nainaine says, How early the figs have ripened this year!(4) Babettes response is I think they have ripened very late(4). Babette is trying to say to Maman that she is mature and that she has been for quite some time. On the other hand Maman is telling Babette that she has ripened into a young lady very quickly. Chopins use of symbolism in this story is easy for most readers to relate to because we have all been in a situation similar to Babettes at one time. Eventuall y we all ripen as Babette does in Chopins use of spring carries over to The Story of an Hour. The reader fins the fragile Mrs. Mallard coming to the realization that her husband is dead. F ...

Citigroup as an Investment bank Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Citigroup as an Investment bank - Research Paper Example The purpose of this paper is to analyze Citigroup’s investment banking segment. Investment banks aid in the underwriting of security deals in the process of raising capital for their corporate clients. In addition, investment bankers provide a myriad of other financial services to make sure the deals meet the entire financial and legal requirements by handling transactional aspects of the deals. Citigroup is a reputable global financial institution with a very highly diverse financial services portfolio providing the services in investment banking in many countries in the world. While Citigroup has both commercial and retail banking sections, the bank also prides itself in having one of the best investment banks in the world, with many of its deals running into billions of dollars each. While retail and commercial banking includes the taking of deposits by the bank, the investment banking sector precludes the taking of deposits, and instead engages in facilitation of transacti ons and promotion of securities. Citi’s investment bank is among the top ten in world, making over $3.2 billion in fees for the year 2010. The group’s investment baking section leads in many regional financial services markets, and has won numerous awards for its investment banking operations. Citigroup was formed in 1998, after the merger of Citicorp and Travelers in a $70 billion merger. City Bank’s origin dates back to 1812, which gives the financial institution a 200-year legacy in the banking industry as of this year. Citigroup has since become a world-renowned financial institution with diverse banking specialties. The bank boasts of a vibrant presence in over 100 countries and a workforce of over a quarter of a million employees. The investment banking section of the financial services group accounts for billions of dollars’ worth of transactions, and thrives against a backdrop of brutal investment banking competitors with a global presence in the industry. Initially, the law disallowed the merger of commercial and investment services by a single financial services entity before the year 1998. However, with the timely passing of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act at the turn of the twenty first century is what many financial analysts regard as the single most important contributor to the success of many financial institutions such as Citi’s investment banking segments. Primarily, investment banks turn profits by charging fees and commissions for their services (Jobs Digest, 2010). Citigroup offers many investment banking services, which involve underwriting services, issuance of capital in primary and secondary markets, and making debt arrangements on behalf of their clients. The clients include governments, corporations and wealthy individuals and families. The amount of money investment banks make has risen considerably over the last few years. However, many investment banks reported numerous losses that crippled their opera tions and forced many into merger and acquisition deals and government bailouts during the 2008 global economic crisis. Citigroup reinforced its loyalty with its customers for sustaining the economic blow without a bail out from the government. The crisis in the investment banking sector was mainly attributable to the deals in sub-prime lending deals (Jobs Digest, 2010), which fell into default and made the banks suffer historical and crippling losses. Citigroup lost 35% stake to the state in the heat of the economic meltdown (Jobs Digest, 2010). Citigroup has four major regions: North America, EMEA (Europe Middle East and Africa), Latin America, and Asia. Each of these regions made $544, $1,224, $ 653, $1,253 billion worth of transactions respectively for the year ending 2010, totaling to $3,674 billion. The group is also one of the favorite in an emerging class of investors in the internet

Marijuana should be forbidden in the United States Essay

Marijuana should be forbidden in the United States - Essay Example alcohol or tobacco, its legalization would only result in an increase in its usage which could result in long-term addiction problems (DuPont, 2012). A study carried out in 2006 has found that marijuana is the most widely grown cash crop in the country with values exceeding that of corn and wheat combined (Marijuana Prohibition, 2008). While the plant was widely grown in the US, a federal law of Controlled Substance Act that was passed in the year 1970 prohibited the cultivation, use and trading of the drug within the country. The Act further classified the drug as a Schedule 1 drug by which the drug has more potential for abuse. However, in the following years certain states decriminalized the use of the drug and allowed medical use of marijuana as its use was found to be effective in the treatment of nausea, rheumatism and labor pains (Marijuana Facts and Statistics, 2012). Though the drug continues to be a controlled substance and users are subject to federal prosecution, research studies have shown that even teenagers have easy access to the drug with a particular study showing that popularity of the use of marijuana overtook that of cigarette tobacco over the past year (Marijuana Facts and Statistics, 2012; Marijuana Prohibition, 2008; Coffman &Dobuzinskis, 2012). An anti-legalization group has argued that marijuana use poses a great risk for the physical and mental development of young children (Coffman &Dobuzinskis, 2012; DuPont, 2012). A recent study showed a decline in the IQ levels among teenagers who used the drug regularly. The study further noted the harmful effects that the drug would have on the brain development in these teenagers. Thus the group is campaigning against legalization of the drug citing the negative effects it has on teenagers which would in turn affect their education and career later in life. There is also less awareness about the exact effects of the drug that has hindered efforts to prevent the use of the drug (Coffman

Managing Construction Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Managing Construction - Essay Example 2005). Account also needs to be taken of changes in the quality of labor. Educational achievement is the usual delegation for quality. In construction, this alternative is least dependable, since many skills are acquired from experience and workshop training. The service is the amount of the finances that is made use of in production due to repairs. Reports have shown that there is dwindling productivity in the construction industry across UK. The industry has had downfalls that are associated with many contributing factors. Among the factors that affect productivity as discussed in this paper are employing skilled labor from abroad, increasing overtime for local skilled labor, rapid training of new local workers, and the use of more capital-intensive methods of construction (A 2000). Risk is characterized as the introduction to loss/gain, or the likelihood of event of loss/gain reproduced by its particular size. Activities are said to be sure if the likelihood of their event is 100% or completely unverifiable if the likelihood of event is 0%. In the middle of these extremes, the doubt shifts generally. Chance additionally could be characterized as a normal for a circumstance, movement, or occasion in which various conclusions are conceivable, the specific one that will happen is indeterminate, and no less than one of the potential outcomes is undesirable (M.A. 2000). Risk can further be characterized as the vicinity of potential or real requirements that could hinder productivity, bringing about complete disappointment either throughout development or at time of utilization. Risk can be simply illustrated as; Employing skilled work force from abroad has assorted inconvenient consequences to the productivity of the construction industry and the countrys budgetary standpoint on the loose. The expenses are connected with decreasing the profitability and

Hr Managing Towards Recruitment And Selection Management Essay

Hr Managing Towards Recruitment And Selection Management Essay With the advent of growing emphasis on people as the prime source of competitive advantage, the foremost important decision for an organization has been to ensure the selection of the right people to join the workforce (Beardwell and Holden, 2001, p. 225). In the early 1990s, Beaumont (1993, p.56 cited in Beardwell and Holden, 2001, p. 225) identified three focus areas having significant relevance in the current industry scenario that has enhanced the potential importance of the selection decision in individual organizations. The areas include demographic trends and changes in the labour market, which have led to a less homogeneous workforce that emphasizes on fairness in selection process. Secondly, the desire for a multi-skilled, flexible workforce and an increased emphasis on team working has led to conclude that selection decision are concerned with behaviour and attitudes than with matching individuals on basis of the current job requirements. Lastly, the link between corporate strategy and Human Resource Management has led to the evolution of the concept of strategic selection that refers to the development of a system that links selection to the overall organizational strategy while aligning personnel to emerging business strategies. Thus to have a positive impact on companys productivity and profitability, the practice of recruitment and selection in Human Resource Management has become increasingly important (Beardwell and Holden, 2001, p. 225). The increased global competition and the increasing customer expectations mean that the growth and sustenance of an organization is proving to be challenging. Organisations need to be more proactive in their approach to sustain profitability and meet the ever changing global business dynamics by attracting and retaining high-quality individuals who can respond effectively to this changing environment (Bach, 2008, p. 115). Hiring competent people is of prime importance to an organization, which is greatly dependent on effective recruitment and selection procedures. As cited in Bach (2008), a poor recruitment decision can cost an employer an amount equal to 30 per cent of the employees first year earnings (Hacker 1997). These costs can include lower productivity, potential loss of customers; cost incurred in training, advertising, recruitment fees and redundancy packages (Smith and Graves 2002 cited in Bach, 2008, p. 115). Thus, in order to have a competitive edge, it is increasingly e ssential that in tight labour market scenario, firms must evolve and practice better recruitment, selection and retention strategies (Boxall and Purcell, 2003, p. 15). As mentioned in a case study on Betterbuy (Greenwood, 2007), as part of their good personnel practice they offer a market-leading package of pay and benefits such as childcare vouchers and two share schemes namely Save as you earn and Buy as you earn. It also regards eligible staff for their hard work and commitment with free shares and a pension scheme that allows member to build up a pension based in their earnings and service. The term recruitment and selection are commonly referred together; however they have distinct human resource management activities and functions. Recruitment comprises of short-listing candidate applications from potential employees, while selection techniques are used to decide which of the short-listed applicant is best suited for the job (Taylor, 2005, p. 166). Further reiterating the above point, Boxall and Purcell (2003, p. 143) has also stated that recruitment and selection are nearly always joint management processes of some kind where both line and specialist managers are involved. Bratton and Gold (2003, p. 221) defines recruitment as the process of generating a pool of capable people to apply for employment to an organization. Selection is the process by which managers and others use specific instruments to choose from a pool of applicants a person or persons most likely to succeed in the job(s), given management goals and legal requirement (Bratton and Gold, 2003, p. 221). Newell and Shackleton (2000, p.113 cited in Bratton and Gold, 2003, p. 226) refer to recruitment as the process of attracting people who might make a contribution to the particular organisation. Bach (2008) defines Recruitment as the process of attracting people who might make an organizational contribution to fill a particular role or job. While, Selection is predicting which candidates will make the most appropriate contribution to the organization now and in the future (Hackett, 1991 cited in Beardwell and Holden, 2001, p. 226) In the 1980s, some major changes were witnessed within organizations in regards to their HR practices; for instance it became more assertive as to its role played in organization (Legge, 1995 cited in Searle, 2003, p. 7). This was due to an increasing awareness and evidence of the impact of HR had on the viability of the organisations success. During this period, HR policies emerged as significant levers for assisting firms in repositioning themselves. It resulted in recruitment and selection processes being considered as the key factors for successful change management (Searle, 2003, p. 7). It can thus be asserted that selection is about how to make fair, un-biased and relevant assessments of the strengths and weaknesses of short-listed potential employees by using various selection techniques. While recruitment is the way in which a firm tries to source or attract candidates among whom it will short-list. Thus, in other words, recruitment strategy involves the organisations attempt to portray the firm as an attractive place to work thereby attracting good talent (Boxall and Purcell, 2003, p. 141). There are two methods of recruitment: Internal and External. INTERNAL RECRUITMENT One of the crucial points to reflect upon during the recruitment procedure is whether or not there is a need to recruit outside the organization. Implementing alternative approaches to recruitment might lead to the development of effective solutions at considerably lower cost (Taylor, 2005, p. 166). Research shows that most private sector companies attempt to fill vacancies internally before looking for people outside the organization (Newell and Shackleton, 2000, p. 116, CIPD 2003b, p. 11 cited in Taylor, 2005, p. 167). Fuller and Huber (1998, p. 621 cited in Taylor, 2005, p.167) identifies four distinct internal recruitment activities like internal promotions, lateral transfers, job rotation schemes and re-hiring former employees. Some of the key advantages of internal recruitment of an organization are its cost effectiveness and quick as vacancies can be advertised internally on staff notice boards, in-house publications or intranet systems at no additional cost. Thus, it promotes and helps in developing a strong establishment of motivated and committed employees among existing employees and also that the management is already familiar with the strengths and limitations of the employee. It also helps a company to maximize its return on investment invested in staff recruitment, selection and training processes. The employee in his new position is already familiar with the business objectives and has a better knowledge and understanding about the companys operations. The time taken to fill a vacancy is lesser leading to improving greater organizational effectiveness and reduction in cost and time. However, some of the disadvantages of internal recruitment are that new employees would bring in fresher ideas whic h are often required to challenge the status quo especially at senior levels. It can also lead to bringing about sterility by limiting the number of potential candidates for the job profile, lack of originality and a decline in the breadth of an organisations collective knowledge base. It may also be possible that the best suited person may not be available within the firm. Also an inclination towards this tends to perpetuate existing imbalances in the make-up of the workforce resulting in the feeling of inequality and resentment among the workforce who have not been selected. (Taylor, 2005, p. 168) EXTERNAL RECRUITMENT Even as there are numerous different approaches used to attract applications for prospective candidates, some of the formal methods used are printed media (national and local newspapers, trade and professional journals and magazines), external agencies (job centres, outplacement consultants, headhunters, employment agencies, forces resettlement agency, recruitment consultants), education liaison (careers service, careers fairs, college tutors, careers advisors, student societies), other media (direct mail, local radio teletext, billboards, internet, television and cinema), and professional contacts (conferences, trade union referrals, suppliers, industry contacts), other methods (factory gate posters, past applicant records, open days, personal recommendation or word of mouth, poaching). Few other informal methods include whereby employees families, suppliers or personal acquaintances get to hear about a vacancy via word of mouth or the grapevine. Several approaches like job centres or word of mouth is relatively less expensive in comparison to publishing advertisement in national newspaper or in delegating the task to headhunters. A few methods, such as the use of television and cinema, are used as a mode of recruiting by the largest employing organisations seeking to recruit substantial numbers like the Army and Navy recruiters (Taylor, 2005, p. 169-70). Some of the few advantages of external recruitment include that a new recruit will bring in fresh perspective and ideas, the best suited candidate can be chosen from the large pool of candidates, recruits having wider knowledge and experience on the subject can be chosen. The disadvantages to external recruitment would include that the process is long and hence more time consuming, selection process alone may not be able to identify and reveal the best candidate and also that the cost incurred is enormous for placing advertisements to attract potential talent. According to a study conducted by IRS (2001b, pp34; 2003c cited in Taylor, 2005, p. 171), approximately  £1 billion is spent each year on recruitment advertising in the United Kingdom. An HR Manager would require choosing a publication depending on the target audience. An opinion poll research carried out and published by Recruitment Today (June 1995) has indicated that around 70 per cent of people purchase different newspaper when they are looking for a new job. Thus information about readership levels and profiles is only of limited use in deciding the placement of job advertisement. It is essential for the HR manager to reflect upon whether or not there is a need to advertise nationally. For most jobs, local newspapers are preferable, because they reach potential applicants only within the relevant travel-to-work and are thus more cost effective. The need to organize at a national level arises when the target audience is at a national level. Some of the other additional alternat ive methods of recruitment include: Internet Recruitment: The scope and usage of internet as a medium of recruitment has witnessed a significant growth in the recent years. In the late 1990s, the jobs advertised on the web were mainly in IT or academia, or were specifically targeting graduate recruitments. In 2003, nearly 70 per cent of employers had been advertising vacancies on the internet (CIPD 2003b, p. 15 cited in Taylor, 2005, p. 176), while on the other hand the providers of job search website were spending vast amounts of money on TV, cinema, radio advertising, sports sponsorship and public relations activities as a means of building their public profile and brand image (Taylor, 2005). The key advantages of Internet recruitment are that large companies have a greater potential to attract passing traffic to their company corporate website By cutting down on the need to use written correspondence or field phone calls will prove to be a cost saving for the company. This form of recruitment is attractive to an emp loyer as it gives him the access to a potential audience of millions. Some of the disadvantages of internet recruitment include technology system getting hampered by bugs, computer crashes and threat of losing applications caused by recruiters with poor IT enabled skills which will result in further delay rather than accelerating the recruitment process. Poorly designed or over-engineered websites represent a further pitfall by means of slow loading speeds are all guaranteed to create fatigue in the potential candidate users whose expectations of fast, reliable access are very high thus causing damage to the brand image of the company (Taylor, 2005, p. 179). In the past few years, there has been a significant rapid development in online recruitment or commonly termed as e-recruitment which has accelerated the growth of e-Human Resource Management (Bratton and Gold, 2003, p. 230). In the year 2003, the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (Storey, 2007, p. 238) highlighted some of the key potential benefits of e-HR. The hard benefits included reduced service delivery costs due to automation of key HR business processes, by improving the accuracy of these HR processes the out put would lead to reduction in correction costs, by using intranet as a means of internal communication channel would eliminate costs of printing and distributing information to employees, improving staff productivity and efficacy by providing universal access 24/7 on various information thereby reducing the data entry and search costs through employee and manager self-service. While some of the soft benefits included allowing instant processing of data collected leading to reduction in cycle times, increasing employee satisfaction and engaging in better employee relations by improvising on the quality of HR service, making HR function to align with strategic partner in business, an indicator of change towards an organisational culture that promotes initiative, self-reliance and improved internal service standards by using technology. Employer websites: One of the most convenient methods includes highlighting existing vacancies available in an organization in respective organization website. However, links to these vacancies can be uploaded on various other search engines and recruitment agency website. These sites are easy to maintain and is cost effective as it provides an organization the opportunity to provide relevant adequate information about the profile for it to attract more responses. As quoted by Frankland (2000, cited in Taylor, 2005, p. 176); the total cost incurred to set up a fully operational website is equivalent to the total amount spent by a firm on advertisement in national newspapers. The organisations have immensely benefited by using websites as a medium of advertising the existing vacancies, but it is essential to evaluate the degree and the extent to which it has impacted in the recruitment procedure. As the success of this method solely depends upon the extent to which potential employees visit the websites. Cyber agencies: This method involves the use of specialist employment agencies that specializes in recruitment and selection of potential recruits for example, monster.com. These agencies carry out the functions and role carried out by employment agencies traditionally. These agencies extend their services to not only publish advertisements of vacancies but also short-list the candidates on behalf of the employers. (Taylor, 2005) Job linked to newspapers and journals: Many companies advertise in local and national national newspapers, notice boards, recruitment fairs and substantiate the advertisement with relevant important information relating to the job like the job title, pay package, location, job description, how to apply-either by CV or application form. The success of the recruitment process depends upon whether it is able to attract substantial number of candidates of the desired quality within the allocated budget. Too many applicants may reduce the cost per applicant but add further costs in terms of the time taken to screen the applications. While few applications received may be an indication of a tight labour market and also that the companys values, ethos and brand image in the market are poor attractors. It is thus essential that HR managers monitor the effect of such factors on the overall recruitment process (Bratton and Gold, 2003, p 234). SELECTION After the identification of a pool of potential candidates, the HR Manager needs choose and select the short-listed candidates who would best suit the job profile (Bach, 2008, p. 129). Some of the selection methods include interviews, psychometric testing (cognitive and personality test), assessment centres, references, biodata, job simulation or work sampling. Various selection techniques are used to measure differences between applicants and provide a prediction of future performance at work while measuring the effectiveness of these selection methods. Two statistical concepts reliability and validity are of relevant importance in the selection process. Techniques that are chosen on the basis of their consistency in measurement over a period of time is termed as reliability and the degree to which they measure what they are supposed to measure is referred as validity (Bratton and Gold, 2003, p. 234). The three important forms of reliability include the testee or the test-retest, the tester and the test reliability. Among the different forms of validity, the most important is the predictive or criterion-related validity. It refers to establishing an association between the predictors that comprises of the results obtained from various selection methods and the criterion that measures the performance on the job (Bach, 2008, p. 130). An HR Manager in an organization is using more sophisticated selection techniques and is ensuring to make good selection decisions. A good selection decision would reduce a number of costs incurred like the overall cost of the selection process that includes the use of various selection instruments, the future cost of inducting and training new staff and staff turnover. The process and method of selection to be used are based on two key fundamentals. Firstly, individual differences would measure the extent to which two individuals would differ on the parameters of intelligence, attitude, social skills, psychological and physical characteristics, experience, etc. Secondly, recognizing the way in which people differ would be reflected upon the prediction of performance by the individual at the workplace Many leading companies may use a variety of these techniques and statistical theory for giving credibility to techniques that attempt to measure peoples attitude, attributes, abilities and overall personality (Bratton and Gold, 2003, p. 234). Methods of Selection: Selection interviewing Interview is one of the oldest and commonly used selection methods. Cook (1994, p.15 cited in Bratton and Gold, 2003, p. 236) referred the usage of interviews along with application forms and referral / recommendation letters as the classic trio. The interview pattern can be broadly classified on the basis of the Information Elicited which would dwell on the focus on facts and the information that is required. It would follow a direct approach and give emphasis on seeking subjective information from the interviewee as the factual information must have been already collated prior to the interview. This pattern may require to qualified psychologist as it may require usage of intensive probing. It can secondly be classified on the basis of structure like structured or unstructured. Thirdly, on basis of the order and involvement pattern adopted while conducting the interview. Also by using questions related to ones past behaviour coupled with competencies in inter views has further enhanced the effectiveness of this method (Bratton and Gold, 2003, p. 238). Psychometric testing: It has formed an integral part of the selection process of most organization because of its ability to provide an objective measurement of individual competencies and personality (Beardwell and Holden, 2001, p. 243). This type of selection is also considered to have a good record of reliability and validity. Further evidence of its usage since 1990s has been witnessed due to the rapid growth in the number of organizations using this test leading to more HR professionals being trained to administer the functioning of the test (McHenry 1997a cited in Bratton and Gold, 2003, p.239). The two types of test include cognitive or ability test and personality test. Cognitive tests provide a detailed assessment of an individuals intellectual abilities like specific abilities or general intelligence. Personality test provides a detailed assessment of an individuals behaviour when confronted with a specific situation (Bach, 2008, p. 133). Assessment Centre It incorporates a variety of selection methods like interviews, psychometric test, simulations, in-tray exercises and group decision-making exercises, role-plays and presentations to test the mental ability, reasoning and personality of an individual employee (Taylor, 2005, p.242-3). Assessment centres are designed to provide information like the strengths and weaknesses of an individual employee to management for making decisions in relation to suitability for a position. (Bratton and Gold, 2003). Various on-going validity studies have found the assessment centres to have good predictive ability. One of the major drawbacks of the centre is the cost associated with setting up and functioning of the assessment centre (Taylor, 2005, p. 242). CONCLUSION While critically analyzing on which recruitment and selection approach and methodology an HR Manager must adopt for their organization, it is crucial to consider the impact and accuracy of its approach adopted on the target audience. Further, recruiters need to be aware of the image of their organization they are portraying to the external world. A local newspaper advertisement might attract large number of applicants; but there is a strong business case for spending rather more on a substantial advertisement set by professionals conveying to job seekers that the organization compares favourably with others as a place to work. Few methods are ruled out because of time constraints as most personnel specialists may quite often have pressure from line managers to fill vacancies within days instead of weeks. Thus the range of possible recruitment methods gets severely restricted. Under such circumstances, the best option that a firm can adopt is to outsource the task of recruitment and s election to employment agencies, job centres or use personal contacts (Taylor, 2005, p. 169). It may also prove to be beneficial to consider the volume of applications as outcomes that each method is likely to yield and the ability of the personnel department to administer and act upon effectively. An HR Manager should avoid selecting a recruitment methodology which resulted in receiving hundreds of applications for a single unskilled job vacancy and vice versa. For instance, an advertisement seeking application for very senior cadre roles where the widest pool of appropriately qualified individuals is needed to enable the organization to screen out all but the very best candidates. Another example would be the opening of a new plant store leading to the creating a demand for several hundreds of new jobs (Taylor, 2005, p. 169). Proposed References: Torrington, D., Hall, L., and Taylor S. (2002) Human Resource Management. 5th edition. FT Prentice Hall, England Bratton, J. and Gold, J. (2003) Human Resource Management Theory and Practice. 3rd edition. Palgrave Macmillan, New York Searle, R. (2003) Selection and Recruitment a critical text Palgrave Macmillan, UK in association with The Open University 1st edition Storey, J. (2007) Human Resource Management a critical text. 3rd edition. Thomson Learning, London Boxall, P. and Purcell, J. (2008) Strategy and Human Resource Management. 2nd edition. Palgrave Macmillan, New York Taylor, S. (2005) People Resourcing. 3rd edition CIPD, London Beardwell, I. and Holden, L. (2001) Human Resource Management: A Contemporary Approach. FT Prentice Hall: Pearson Education Limited, England Bach, S. (2008) Managing Human Resources: Personnel Management in Transition. 4th edition. Blackwell Publishing, UK Callaghan, G. and Thompson, P. (2002) We recruit attitude: The selection and shaping of routine call centre labour, Journal of Management Studies: 39(2): 233-254 Greeenwood, I. (2007) Recruitment in the retail sector: a large supermarket, Work and Employment Relations Division Teaching Case, University of Leeds **********************

A Rhetorical Analysis of the Stem Cell Research Debate Essays -- Genet

Stem cell research has been a heated and highly controversial debate for over a decade, which explains why there have been so many articles on the issue. Like all debates, the issue is based on two different arguments: the scientific evolution and the political war against that evolution. The debate proves itself to be so controversial that is both supported and opposed by many different people, organizations, and religions. There are many â€Å"emotional images [that] have been wielded† in an attempt to persuade one side to convert to the other (Hirsen). The stem cell research debate, accompanied by different rhetoric used to argue dissimilar points, comes to life in two articles and a speech: â€Å"Should Human Cloning Be Allowed? Yes, Don’t Impede Medical Progress† by Virginia Postrel; â€Å"Should Human Cloning Be Allowed? No, It’s a Moral Monstrosity† by Eric Cohen and William Kristol; and â€Å"Remarks by Ron Reagan, Jr., to the 2004 Demo cratic National Convention† by Ron Reagan, Jr. Ethos, pathos, and logos are the main categories differentiating the two arguments. The audience for whom those works were written for explains a great deal about the syntax and the diction, and as stated in Dynamic Argument, provides â€Å"different strokes for different folks† (Lamm and Everett 11). When Ron Reagan was delivering his remarks to the Democratic National Convention, he took into account that he needed to paint a picture for his audience â€Å"while still doing justice to the incredible science involve [involved]† (qtd in Lamm and Everett 428). The fact that he was trying to convince his audience to vote for embryonic stem-cell research showed that he needed to explain exactly how the procedure worked. His story about the thirteen-year-old young woma... ... a Moral Monstrosity.† In Dynamic Argument. Ed. Robert Lamm and Justin Everett. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 2007. 425-26. Hirsen, James L. â€Å"Who’s the Victor on the Stem Cell Debate?† 7 Aug. 2001. 24 Sept. 2007 . â€Å"How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis.† 5 Aug. 2005. 23 Sept. 2007 . Lamm, Robert, and Justin Everett. Dynamic Argument. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 2007. Postrel, Virginia. â€Å"Should Human Cloning Be Allowed? Yes, Don’t Impede Medical Progress.† In Dynamic Argument. Ed. Robert Lamm and Justin Everett. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 2007. 420-23. Reagan, Ron Jr. â€Å"Remarks by Ron Reagan, Jr., to the 2004 Democratic National Convention.† In Dynamic Argument. Ed Robert Lamm and Justin Everett. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 2007. 428-30.

Soc 402 Outline for Final

Substance Abuse in the Workplace Contemporary Social Problems and the Workplace SOC402 Instructor: Douglas Nelson October 4, 2012 Substance Abuse in the Workplace Substance abuse is a growing problem in the workplace. â€Å"Substance abuse is the repeated use of alcohol or drugs to the point that users develop personal problems and distress related to use. † (Giraffe, 2011) I am going to discuss the major problems with substance abuse and outline some mind-boggling statistics.Furthermore, I will relate substance abuse to a work environment I have been associated with and express the chaos I have witnessed from co-workers abusing illegal substances and over-using alcohol. I am going to analyze ways this problem can be possibly solved or at least prevented to a certain degree. If substance abuse is prevented, I have determined several social and economic benefits that may occur. I. The major problem with substance abuse 1.Substance abuse in the workplace is extremely dangerous; the one abusing the substance increases not only their chances, but also increases the likeliness of their co-workers of injuries or possibly death depending on the situation. a. â€Å"Alcohol and drug abuse on the job is a serious issue for employers because it may cause lost productivity or dangerous conditions from mistakes, reduced efficiency, and increased absenteeism. † (Giraffe, 2011) b. â€Å"Alcohol use, although legal, also significantly contributes to workplace substance abuse problems. (Giraffe, 2011) II. Substance abuse related to my work environment 1. I have had co-workers come into work hung-over and possibly still drunk, I have seen them hide in the bathroom and sleep for several hours. a. â€Å"Furthermore, substance abusers are not only less productive, but they also use three times the number of sick days and file five times the number of workers' compensation claims as nonabusers† (U. S. Department of Labor, 1999). b. â€Å"Substance abuse also l eads to injuries† (Giraffe, 2011) III. Ways this problem can be decreased 1.Although the problem is abundant in the work-center, there are possibly solutions to minimizing substance abusers at work. a. â€Å"In 2005, for example, an estimated 17 million people used illegal drugs and nearly 75% of them were employed† (U. S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 2011) b. â€Å"The Department of Health and Human Services study reported that almost 9% of full-time workers reported heavy alcohol use within the past month. The vast majority of those were between 18 and 25 years old† (Larson, Eyerman, Foster, ; Gfroerer, 2007). c. OSHA provides employers with recommendations for substance abuse prevention programs, including the drug-free workplace policy. † (Giraffe, 2011) d. â€Å"Training is an important component of a drug-free workplace to make sure supervisors understand how to enforce the policy without violating the law. Many companies offer empl oyee assistance programs (EAPs) as part of their benefits package. EAPs provide individual counseling services and are a resource for referral to rehabilitation programs, medical services, or other therapeutic services. † (Giraffe, 2011) e. This was followed by the Drug-Free Workplace Law of 1988, which has been amended several times to require federal contractors to actively promote a drug-free workplace and to have a substance abuse prevention policy in place† (Reagan, 1986). 2. Social benefits if prevented 1. The workplace will be a more socially accepted atmosphere is the problem was to be prevented. a. â€Å"According to a Department of Health and Human Services study, males are more likely than females to use illegal drugs, and employees with lower education levels are more likely to use drugs than those with college degrees† (Larson, Eyerman, Foster, ; Gfroerer, 2007). . Economic benefits if prevented 1. Companies will save a great deal of money if this pro blem were to be prevented. a. â€Å"can cause increases in health insurance costs† (Giraffe, 2011) b. â€Å"Estimates that the residual cost of substance abuse in the workplace is more than $80 billion in the United States. † (U. S. Department of Labor, 1999) Substance abuse in the workplace is a problem that has been around for years, and it has yet to slow-down, however, I noted several ways the problem can be prevented.I expressed why substance abuse is the extensive problem it is, and I related the problems I have seen inside my own work-center. If my solution to substance abuse in the work center is implemented, there will be many social and economic benefits. References Giraffe, V. (2011). Contemporary social problems and the workplace. San Diego, Bridgepoint Education,Inc. Retrieved from https://content. ashford. edu/books/AUSOC402. 11. 1 Larson, S. L. , Eyerman, J. , Foster, M. S. , ; Gfroerer, J. C. (2007, June). Worker substance use and workplace policies and programs (U.D. Services, Producer). Retrieved from http://www. oas. samhsa. gov/work2k7/work. htm#6. 1 Reagan, R. (1986, September 15). Executive Order 12564 Drug-Free Workplace. Retrieved from http://uscode. house. gov/download/pls/41C10. txt U. S. Department of Labor. (1999). How does substance abuse impact the workplace? Retrieved from http://www. dol. gov/elaws/asp/drugfree/benefits. htm U. S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2011). Workplace substance abuse. Retrieved from http://www. osha. gov/SLTC/substanceabuse/index. html

Fast Food and Obesity Essay

People know that fast food is not good for them, but how bad is really and how much do people really know about the bad effects of fast food on their bodies? Most people have seen the â€Å"Super Size Me† documentary; yes Morgan Spurlock ate McDonalds for every meal for 30 days. Most people would gain weight from eating McDonalds for 30 days in a row, but even just eating McDonalds three times a week can have an impact on the body without people realizing it. And today according to The Center for Disease Control the childhood obesity rate grows every day from lack of exercising and a poor diet which leads to other health risks as well (Center for Disease Control, Atlanta 2010-2012). When Morgan Spurlock did the â€Å"Super Size Me† documentary, here he planned to eat at McDonalds for every meal for 30 days in a row and then would go to the physician periodically throughout the 30 days to see the side effects of eating fast food. Now given he did eat it for every meal for 30 days, most people figured there would be major side effects, but he wanted to prove to the public that even eating fast food a few times a week will make a difference on the body. And he proved that quite easily. Morgan Spurlock found many interesting facts about how bad fast food is on the body. Here are curios few: â€Å"McDonald’s feeds more than 46 million people a day – more than the entire population of Spain† there is no reason any fast food company should be feeding more people than the entire population of a country. In 1972, we spent 3 billion a year on fast food – today we spend more than $110 billion† if people spent the amount of money they do on other things besides fast food less people would be in debt. That money spent on fast food adds up quicker than people think. â€Å"Left unabated, obesity will surpass smoking as the leading cause of preventable death in America† and there is no reason that an obesity rate should pass preventable death by smoking. All of these facts as well as many others should be enough warning about how bad fast food really is, unfortunately it’s not. (Spurlock 2011. Childhood obesity these days has become somewhat the norm. People look around and see all of these overweight children and wonder how they got like that. Fast food and lack of exercise is more than likely to blame. When children become obese early in life that puts them at risk for health problems like diabetes, heart problems, bone loss, and many other health risks that children should not have at an early age. If parents helped them become more educated about the benefits of exercising regularly and eating right, the obesity rate in children might not be as high. The Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, GA says that â€Å"Childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and tripled in adolescents in the past 30 years (CDC Atlanta 2010-2012). This alone should be a wakeup call to parents about educating their children on the bad effects of fast food and the benefits of regular exercise. No parent should ever want a child to be a statistic. There are so many benefits to regular exercise, like looking good and feeling good about the way the body feels after exercising. It can make a great start to the day, it builds healthy muscle and builds strong bones and it is also burning all those calories from one too many fast food restaurant visits. If people eat fast food even just one to three times a week, regular exercise might also be a good idea to consider doing one to three times a week. When eating unhealthy food and not exercising, the body just holds onto all of the unhealthy fat, calories and carbohydrates, which is why exercising is so important when people eat fast food on a regular basis. The Mayo Clinic says that â€Å"Many fast food menu items are extremely high in calories and would take lengthy and intense sessions of physical exercise to burn off. When you want to lose weight, eliminate fast food and eat a low-calorie diet made up of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats and fat-free dairy products† (Wood 2011). Several fast food items can go well over 1,000 calories. Like Big Mac meals and Quarter Pounder meals. That many calories in one item is never good for the body. Studies say that the body would have to run for 7 hours to burn off one double cheese burger from a local fast food restaurant, those 7 hours do not even include the fries that were ordered, or that super-sized soft drink, and then the possible dessert snack that was ordered as well. So in reality the body would be running for over 10 hours. If the body is exercising regularly (more that 1-3 times a week) then yes, the occasional cheese burger is okay. Eating fast food is never a healthy option. Even the healthy looking salad on the menu at Chik-Fil-A is not healthy, it has more than over 800 calories. There are short term and long term health effects from eating fast food and not exercising along with it. Some short term effects are fatigue, a suppressed immune system, weight gain, skin problems and dehydration. Some long term effects are when the body eats fast food most of it contains antibiotics, hormones and steroids, consuming these things over a long period of time can cause a boost in weight gain and make the body more prone to consuming bacteria that can be harmful to the body (Snider 2012). The antibiotics the body consumes in fast food will make the body resistant to antibiotics when it is sick. Antibiotics being in the fast food will also cause obesity, and intestinal discomfort happening more often than it should. Fast food also contains polyunsaturated vegetable oils Consuming this over a long period of time has been linked to cancer, blood clots, inflammation, elevated blood pressure, digestion problems, compromised immunity, reproductive damage, and weight gain, and can lead to an imbalance of essential fatty acids that the body needs. Eating fast food can cause high cholesterol which leads to a higher risk for stroke or heart attack. It can also cause the body to have a clogged colon, and processed meats have been proven at the Live Strong health facilities to increase the risk of colon cancer by 36% if the body is consuming fast food 3-5 times a week. There are always healthier choices than fast food, but if the body is craving fast food keep in mind possible things to stay away from like heavy salad dressings, breaded or fried meat, french fries, mayonnaise, large portions, double meat, white bread, thick crusts and low fat desserts. Remember these things and when the body is craving that fast food it now has a more educated view on what to eat. Snider 2012) If all Americans could somehow be educated on the bad side effects of fast food and the benefits of regular exercise, I think that the obesity epidemic could diminish tremendously. I know from experience that it feels so good to be healthy. Working out at the gym or taking a walk in the park makes me feel so good about myself and makes my body healthier and eating right does the same thing. Instead of having that greasy biscuit at the local fast food restaurant, try trading it for a bowl of oatmeal and some fruit and a glass of orange juice in the morning. The body will notice differences like not aving to feel bad for that biscuit it ate, it is also going to feel more awake and have more energy, rather than feeling tired from eating that greasy breakfast. Just remember exercise is always important, whether the body consumes fast food or not, exercise is always good for anyone and everyone. Moderation is key. If the body must have that fast food try limiting the fast food to once or twice a month, rather than once or twice a week like most people are used to. The best part in my opinion of not eating fast food as often or not at all is it saves me a ton of money!

indians in american history essays

indians in american history essays Trade was very significant throughout the Indian villages before the Europeans arrived because it was not only about trading goods. Fundamental to the social and economic patterns of virtually all North American communities were exchanges that linked them directly or indirectly with other communities (45). There would be exchanges across the lines of the communities of having different marriage partners, labor, different resources, techniques, ideas, technology and religious practices. Usually trades from longer distances accounted in widespread alliances and networks that were political, economic, and religious. Trades conserved social and political relationships amongst tribes. When the Europeans arrived, trading was not a way to bring communities together. It was more about material goods such as furs, glass beads, mirrors, copper kettles and other goods. At first, the Europeans did not have a choice but had to accept the way the Indians did trading, they did not share beliefs that the Indians believed. This made the relationships between the Indians and the Europeans stronger; it gave more power to the Europeans, which was bad for the Indians. The reason it was bad is because the Indians became so close with the Europeans that they the Europeans now set up communities among st the Indians, which resulted in disease that killed many Indians. This also brought conflict between Indian tribes, rather than before in which they looked to join each other. For the remainder of the century, the Five Nations fought wars against the French and its Indian allies to gain access to better pelts and goods (54). The treatments of the Indians throughout the Spanish borderlands, English colonies and French Canada differed. The Indians in the Spanish borderlands were treated very harshly, killed, and forced to change their religions. Turning captured Indians captives into slaves; captors typically so...

Olympia, Edouard Manet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Olympia, Edouard Manet - Essay Example While the initial attempt with â€Å"Starry Night† received harsh critique on the bizarre aspect of his painting, van Gogh managed to justify â€Å"Starry Night Over the Rhone† with logical elements of texture and color fashioned to project the expressionist’s rich astronomical influence and perspective with the nocturnal theme of the work. Van Gogh is primarily drawn to the attractive contrasts emerging between the natural light of the stars and the gaseous luminescence radiating via man-made lamps. In particular, he is profoundly caught with the beautiful pattern the ‘Big Dipper’ makes with the rest of the constellation. Based on this, one may observe an apparent connection between darkness and the mental struggle, which van Gogh tends to exhibit with intensity, yet the well-balanced sparks of the European river in equilibrium with the sky creates symbolism for appreciation of the wonderful state of gloom. Besides fascination at the concept of blen ding lights from different dimensions as viewed from Arles with ample reference to the ‘Big Dipper’ or the ‘Great Bear’, by other name, van Gogh may be recognized to possess extended interest on astronomical geometry which is largely depicted by the manner the stars are spatially distributed so as to cast the night to its lovely degree or at least to the standard of van Gogh’s intellectual design. How mundane tasks and hard-work of training dance are carried out prior to the scene in which the moment of dance becomes an object of pure delight.

Boswell Agency; Structuring of an Advertising Agency Essay

Boswell Agency; Structuring of an Advertising Agency - Essay Example Boswell Agency being a renowned entity asserts that the Dallas’ office staffs could not complain about the salaries as the remuneration was remarkable. According to the organisation’s study, the abundance in remuneration emanated from the earnings accrued through the Blue Sky client (Kelley & Jugenheimer, 2009). The target media groups had an excess number of buyers and planners; hence, the company realized the need to expand its media portfolio in a bid to reduce competition while still revamping its authoritativeness and cost-effective. The company’s management realizes that the use teambuilding approaches within the office leads to the delivery of the intended information and coordination within the office; hence, its vision to ensure profound service delivery will be enhanced. Secondly, the retrenchment of the excess staff could lead to the reduction of the costs while still affecting the profit margins (Kelley & Jugenheimer, 2009). Evaluation and monitoring of the office’s departments evokes the vital need to improve the rate of transfers within the departments’ employees. Boswell Agency should embrace tactical account practices that would lead to the development of a critical team that will address the needs of different clientele groups despite their demographic, geographic, and other environmental differences as that will propel its acquisition of the target clientele population and subsequent profits (Kelley & Jugenheimer, 2009). The account structuring action plan approach will deliver an understanding to the management; hence, they will understand the types of costs incurred and the subsequent control approaches to pursue in order to achieve the set objectives. The agency opts to embrace a three-plan strategic approach that will deliver its objectives through the creation of positive and authoritative accounting practices that will suit different types of clients

World War II propaganda posters Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

World War II propaganda posters - Essay Example The opening of the thesis report consists of the background information about American propaganda posters against the Japanese and German. Propaganda posters against the Japanese were in partial response to Japanese PSYOPS against the United States. Propaganda against the Japanese centered on the idea that the Japanese were subhuman or second-rate. The justification for Chinese internment camps was part of the propaganda poster campaign during WWII. Propaganda against Germany, in the beginning, revolved around the invasion of the United States. Hitler’s stupidity, ridiculous looks, and manic speeches also were featured on American propaganda posters of the time. War efforts at home were a major theme in American propaganda posters: War bonds propaganda encouraged Americans to invest in the United States’ bond program. Gas conservation, working in military supply sectors and being hardworking posters encouraged Americans to put more effort into their work to help the war effort. Propaganda posters led the public to believe every able man needed to enlist or the war would be lost. Women played a significant role in American propaganda posters during WWII: The depiction of the helpless American woman being raped by Japanese or German soldiers was a popular theme of WWII. Women were mobilized in WACS and other units to serve as nurses for the wounded soldiers.

Mexican Immigrant Life and Americanization in the 1920s Essay Example for Free

Mexican Immigrant Life and Americanization in the 1920s Essay In his book, Major Problems in Mexican American History, Zaragosa Vargas describes the Mexican Immigrant experience from 1917-1928. He begins by assessing the Protestant religious experience for a Mexican in the early 1920’s, and then describes Mexican life in both Colorado in 1924 and Chicago in 1928. After defending Mexican Immigrants in 1929, he includes an outline of an Americanization program, followed by an anecdote of a Mexican immigrant in the 1920’s. Vargas uses these documents to show the evolvement of Americanization of Mexicans from a community goal to a societal demand. Vargas begins with the Mexican Immigrant experience in the early 1920’s, and describes it mostly as a community project spearheaded by the Church and called for the aid of volunteers. The children learned and studied English in school, so the programs focused mostly on courses in English for the wives and mothers of the community. These English courses consisted mostly of vocabulary for familiar and most frequently seen objects. Sunday schools resulted from this process, and in turn made way for the development of night schools, clinics, an employment bureau, and a boys and girl’s club. In Colorado in 1924, Mexicans played a respectable role in society as not only a decent part of the population, but also the labor force. Spanish-Americans took a notable part in politics, and were involved in many occupations that included mostly agriculture, mining, and steel works. The recreation was also important to Spanish-American life in Colorado; the somewhat newly developed buildings were a source of community for many. Mexicans in Chicago in 1928, Vargas argues, lived a very different lifestyle and endured different hardships than the Mexicans in the Southwest. They were a much smaller part of the community, consisting of small, well-defined neighborhoods and several smaller less defined colonies. These Mexicans lived in the poorest houses in these neighborhoods, and most buildings guaranteed poor living conditions for these families. Employment only came certain times during the year when demand for labor was high, and it was the Mexicans who suffered most when certain industries reduced labor. In the words of Anita Edgar Jones, â€Å"They are the last to arrive and the first to be laid off† (Vargas). Mexican Life in Chicago during this time period served as a temporary solution for many families as they moved from recent arrivals to a more desirable place with better opportunity as they became more established and stabilized. Some neighborhoods were poorly organized for recreation, and even lacked Spanish-speaking employees at their community or recreation centers. Communities also lacked a Spanish-speaking priest, which is evidently different from early Americanization programs implemented in the Southwest in the early 1920’s. After addressing and defending most of the problems of Mexican Immigration in 1929, Vargas moves on to an outline of a typical Americanization program in 1931, where the Mexican Immigrant experience evolved from a community project that supported and encouraged Mexican assimilation, to a list of demands and requirements for Mexican and Spanish Americans to be acceptable members of society. Vargas uses these documents to show the progression of assimilation of Spanish Americans and Mexican immigrants into American society in the 1920’s. The life of a Mexican Immigrant during this time was very taxing, and these Americanization programs were used as a tool to attempt to create a society that operated under certain ideologies and values. As a result, this created an even stronger division between cultures, and prevented assimilation of the two groups. Work Cited Vargas, Zaragoza. â€Å"The Mexican Immigrant Experience 1917-1928. † Major Problems in Mexican American History. Thomas G. Patterson. Houghton Mifflin Company 1999. 234-53.

General Strike of 1926 Causes and Impact

General Strike of 1926 Causes and Impact A general strike is when a group of workers from different industries all stop work in support of each other to win certain demands. This would bring the country to a halt and make it very hard for the Government to resist giving in to their demands. The general strike of 1926 was mainly for the miners; they had low pay and worked long hours. They wanted better conditions and equal rights for all. In this essay I shall assess the events leading up to the strike and have a look at all the short and long term causes of the strike. The coal industry before the war was booming. It was used for nearly everything and during the war the demand for coal increased even more. Because coal production was so important to the war effort the Government took over the ownership of the mines and ran them instead of the private owners. Improvements were made in conditions and pay for most miners. When the Government nationalised the mining industry miners hoped it would continue after the war. But in 1921 all mines were returned to private owners. After the war the coal mining industry went into decline. This was because, oil was used as a fuel especially in shipping, electricity became available, more efficient boilers were made, other countries began to mine coal and British pits had been over mined during the war and owners were reluctant to spend money modernising mines. When men from the war came home they found the promises made by Lloyd George were not met and if men have been fighting for their country for four years they are prepared to fight for their jobs and standards of living at home. There are many long-term factors, these are; conditions and pay of miners, at the time of the General Strike an average of two miners were killed per day. Miners were also suffering from ill health because of their work. Miners argued they deserved higher wages because of the risks they took. Mine owners made millions whilst miners were lucky to earn 50p a day. Miners felt they were being unfairly treated. Another long-term cause was the Sankey Commission. In 1919 the Government formed a Royal Commission to look into the problems of the coal mining industry. Lord Sankey led this commission, but it failed to come up with a solution to the problems of the miners. Most members favoured nationalisation but the Prime Minister, Lloyd George, refused to nationalise the mines. The decline of the coal, mining industry was a major one, during the decline of the mining industry owners had to increase hours and lower wages to maintain profits. Others were, Change of attitude after the war and nationalisation. A popular idea among trade unionists at this time was syndicalism this was the belief that several trade unions should go on strike together to bring the country to a halt and so take over the Government for working people. The Miners Union decided to increase their strength by combining with railwaymen and transport workers in a triple alliance. A strike in one of industries meant the other two would stop work as well, so it seemed sensible for them to join together and increase their strengths. A strike of three industries shall have a greater impact on the country and government than only one industry on strike. It shall be harder for the government to keep the country running, so they shall have to give in to their demands. In theory this was a great plan. In the 1920s in Britain, there was a great deal of industrial discontent. It began with the miners. As already discussed, the coal industry was in decline, since 1918. This meant mine owners had to increase hours and give less pay to keep profits going. They tried not to buy new machinery or improve mines, as this would eat away at their profits. In 1920 mine owners told miners their wages would be reduced. The miners decided to go on a strike with the other members of the tripe alliance (the National Union of Railway Men and the Transport and General Workers Union). It was understood that these two unions would join the miners in a sympathy strike. But on Friday 15th April the two unions decided not to support the miners and refused to go on strike. The miners called this Black Friday. It was a disaster for themselves and other trade unions. The miners went on strike alone but were defeated, they had to go back to work for even lower wages. Later other industries such as shipyards, printers and railway workers were forced to accept lower wages. The unions had learnt their lesson form Black Friday; a defeat for one union was a defeat for all. In the future they pledged to stand together. In 1925, coal prices fell yet again and owners wanted to cut wages just as they had done in 1921 but the miners were ready to strike developing the slogan, Not a penny off the pay, not a minute on the day. This time the other industries went on strike with the miners. The Government werent ready for a General Strike so they brought themselves time buy giving the mine owners a subsidy of  £10 million, to keep wages at the same level as they were before the wage cuts were made. This event became known as Red Friday (Friday 31st July 1925) and was seen as a total success for the working class. It also showed what could be achieved if the Trade Unions worked together. However, it was announced the subsidy would only last 9 months enough time for the Government to prepare for a G eneral Strike, if there was one when the subsidy ended. The Government set up a commission called the Samuel Commission, headed by Sir Herbert Samuel to deal with the problems of the coal mining industry. The short-term cause of the General strike was the Samuel Commission; the commission rejected nationalisation and said the government should end the subsidy. It agreed to wage cuts and said working days should be 7/8 hours long. The report sided completely with the mine owners since the whole commission was made up of rich industrialists. The Government immediately responded to the Samuel Commission. They declared the subsidy would end on 30th April 1926. The owners increased the hours and reduced wages by 10-25% with the support of the government. Many meetings were held but no agreement was made so on May 1st 1926 the miners went on strike for better pay and conditions. The government had been preparing for the strike for some time. They built coal stocks to last for 5 months, increased the number of special constables from 98,000 to 226,000, drew up detailed instructions for the army, navy and police to guard docks, telephones exchanges and power stations, gave money to the owners of haulage firms to put 200,000 vehicles at the Governments disposal and set up the OMS . The OMS was a group of about 100,000 volunteers who unloaded cargo from ships, drove buses and trains. People joined the OMS for a number of reasons. The middle class thought the strike was a threat to them and an attempt to ruin the country economically. Others joined for financial reasons, the Government paid constables  £2.31 a week plus food. The miners were on strike refusing to accept wages of  £1.58. The TUC (Trade Union Council) wasted their time. They never expected the Government to allow a General strike to happen. The miners made their positions weaker by getting a re cord level of coal output. This made it easier for the Government to stock up on coal reserves. When the General Strike began the TUC decided to bring out the workers in key industries railwaymen, transport workers, dockers, printers, builders and iron and steel workers. Nearly 3 million men were taken out of work. And later others like, the engineers and shipyard workers can be called out. In London, at the headquarters of the TUC, there was far less optimism than the workers who were prepared to stay out as long as it takes. There seemed to be little unity between trade union leaders. The Government were willing to let the strike continue, as they were prepared and confident they could last longer than the Trade Unions. The TUC had promised their support if an agreement was failed to be reached. So great efforts were made by the TUC to reach an agreement with the Government and mine owners to prevent a general strike. The discussions went on late into Sunday evening (May 3rd) and according to the main TUC negotiator an agreement was close when the Prime Minister, Stanley Baldwin, broke off the talks with the TUC. The reason for this action was that the printers at the Daily Mail newspaper had refused to print an article about the strike the Government had prepared. They were sympathetic to the miners. The TUC apologised but Baldwin refused to re-open talks. Baldwin knew he could win, they had prepared for the strike and knew the TUC couldnt last that long. But in response to the breakdown in negations, the TUC sent strike negations to the Transport, Railway, Dock, Print, Electric and Steel and Chemical workers. The General Strike began on Monday 4th 1926. The TUC argued that the miners were facing longer hours with lower pay, imposed by mine owners to keep profits up. They said it was an Industrial Dispute between bosses and their workers. The TUC also believed if the miners were defeated it would lead to lower wages for all workers. It was a struggle for all working class people not just the mining community. The Government argued this was a Constitutional issue and that the Trade Unions were building up their strength to overthrow the Government. The Government did this to worry people and get them to side with the Government and it worked. Historically it can be seen that the TUC only wanted better pay and conditions. They were not calling for a socialist revelation to over throw the government. The General Strike in 1926 started because of the conditions of the miners. Other workers realised if they didnt support the miners their bosses may lower their wages knowing nothing shall be done as they had previously seen in the case of Black Friday. This was the primary reason why the TUC found the idea of a General Strike appealing, they knew if they stuck together their demands should be met The Government did not want nationalisation; they were prepared and ready for the prospect of a General Strike. Time was on the governments side and their excellent preparations for the strike led to the governments victory I feel the TUC should have been more prepared for the strike and built their case more for the general public to see that the workers were being unfairly treated by the business owners together with the support of Government. Additionally, all the unions should have shown greater solidarity if they had any hope of obtaining better working conditions and pay. Although the idea of a General Strike is theoretically unstoppable there were measures the Government could taken to avoid the strike, by the Government breaking off negotiations just when a deal seemed possible it seems that the Government wanted the strike to go ahead in order to break the resolve of the unions and set an example that a general strike could never succeed, and they should have been more aware. How accurate is this interpretation of the General Strike as a violent dispute? Use the sources and your knowledge to explain your answer. The General Strike started on the 4th may and lasted until the 12th May; throughout this time some areas were hit by violence from striking workers, leading it to be an idea of a violent dispute. There is presented evidence which backs up the idea that the strike was a violent dispute in a few areas, especially the docks. This essay will measure how precise source C is at interpreting the violence of the location using evidence obtained from looking at other resources. The restrictions of the source will also be evaluated to decide any omissions or possible uneven analysis. The sight depicted in source C is definitely an aggressive one, there are many policemen with the crowd of strikers and not many of the strikers are being controlled. This illustrates that the circumstances were out of control causing a great deal of force to be required. This is helpful to show how violence was coped with throughout the strike given that 200,000 special constables were under oath to support the police if strikes took place. Similarly the armoured vehicle just before the front of the portrait implies that plenty of force was necessary to put an end to the strikes which took place. Equally to the points mentioned above an equipped officer is illustrated in the image aiming a machine gun. This tells us that the soldiers felt endangered by the amount of violence being used and were prepared to use arms to look threatening- especially with his finger on the trigger showing that he was ready to open fire. On the other hand this could also illustrate that the soldiers used weapons to frighten and irritate the strikers causing further violence, as The British Worker wrote that this was happening. This tells us that violence was used regularly by both sides of the strike. The information given in the source is useful in terms of portraying the strike as violent and with the advent of the machine gun pointing at the crowds the painting shows an image of a brutal state willing to open fire in order to oppress its people. During the period of this paining it was an era of communism and socialism spreading and the pictures tries to draw some parallel in terms of oppression and class war. Nevertheless, there are also several restrictions in the source which cause it not to be completely dependable. For example, the picture depicted is close by a dock; this is exposed by the cranes shown in the surroundings of the image. The London Dock was the only district in which it was essential for soldiers to be called in and maintain order. The docks in general were mainly well-known areas that strike took place in. Consequently, the sources consistency is in subject as it does not correspond to the whole country and in many places there were no strikes at all, for that reason it is an unreasonable judgement of violent disputes. Only 4,000 people were prosecuted for violence or incitement to violence out of the millions of people striking, which is an extremely small number proportionally. It is an image of a food convoy, which were usually violent events; so it is not possible to suppose strikes similar to these took place every day, hence the stability of them is not possible to conclude. An additional unreliable point is that it was painted for the Electrical Trade Union which suggests it can be pro-union and so exaggerating the strength of the soldiers to make it appear if the strikers were being forced. In support of the above reasons we cannot trust the consistency of the image even though it does suggest some helpful information. Even though the image has numerous implications of violence, it does not actually show any real violence. Nevertheless it is acknowledged there were cases of violence and these are mislaid in this source. For instance, there are reported cases of attempts to deflate tyres and of throwing stones to butt in the movement of those who black-legged the jobs. An additional example was noted where strikers tried to damage a railway line. Other examples of violence used in the General Strike are given from source A, so it does not give the full picture of the types of violence being used, which it would also be vital to know when studying violence used in the General Strike. The painting was painted in 1964. So, at the time there was communism in Russia, and the fear of communism taking over in Great Britain was high, so the Electrical Trade Union wanted to make Communism and Socialism look better than Conservatives. Overall, Source C is a precise explanation of violence in some areas and how order was kept by soldiers of armed policemen; yet its consistency should be questioned given that the view shown was at a food convoy near a dock- both were the most ordinary areas of violence during the strike. It could also be questioned whether the artist was biased since he was painting the image for the Electrical Trade Union. There is also a need of information about violence in erstwhile areas of England, and in relation to dissimilar types of violence used; consequently it is helpful in the direction of studying violence in the General Strike alongside with other sources, but not on its own. Lastly Source C is an accurate explanation of the war, but not sufficient information can be drawn for it to be entirely helpful by itself and there is an explanation to consider why it is not entirely reliable. Is There Sufficient Evidence in Sources A to E to Explain Why the T.U.C. Called of the General Strike? The General Strike was stopped by the Trade Union Congress on the 12th May 1926. Whether it was a working class conflict in opposition to the establishment or an uprising of the unthankful lower classes, it was a stepping stone in Trade Union movement, however it did not appear so for a while later when Trade Unions lost value and resources. The Strike pulled the labour class mutually to work for one reason and it proved that the essential ideas of Trade Unions were well stuck. The General Strike was not continued for several reasons which I will summarize in the following essay. I will consider sources A to E and see if there is sufficient evidence controlled within them to make clear why the T.U.C. called off the General Strike. The Government had organized for the Strike extremely enhanced than the T.U.C. which was in excess of confidence after the new subsidy in 1925. The government had used the more nine months to prepare for an all-out strike and they did a number of things. Firstly, they prepared Organisation for the Maintenance of Supplies, where the nation was broken up into regions and every one had volunteers to keep essential services available such as, food supplies and transport. There was sufficient coal to supply electricity. Also, the primary members of the British Communist Party were detained and imprisoned for sentences of 6-12 months, under the Incitement to Mutiny Act. The Chancellor of the Exchequer Winston Churchill was in charge of making a certified government newspaper for the duration of the Strike. The British Gazette was extremely biased as it was written by the government. The key aim of the General Strike was to hold-up Britain. Not including a total shutdown of the British nation, the Strike would have had slight impact. Source B can be reliable as it is a photograph from the time, shows us that the nation still had a skeleton transport scheme, only 40 buses from a fleet of 4400 were in operation however necessary supplies were being delivered. Consequently from this source we can see that the Strike was not having a huge impact or the consequence wanted by the T.U.C. Black-leg workers were middle class and jobless people who filled in the jobs of people who were on Strike. E.g. they drove busses and trains. If Britain did not have them, Britain would have totally closed down and the Strike would have been effective, however the majority of the men were pleased to help. The trouble was black-leg labourers were proving to be to some extent excellent at filling in for the strikers who became terrified of losing their jobs eternally and so they returned to work. However, the Source B photo may also be seen as a staged photo as the policeman in the photo appears to be posing for the photo. The government was provoking the strikers to become violent. They had armed policemen and soldiers protecting food convoys and the black-leg labourers, as if daring the Strikers to battle. An extract from English History 1914-1945 says, Churchill tried to provoke conflict by parading armoured cars through the streets. We can see how the government tried to do this from photographs taken during the Strike, though from the photos we can also see the peacefulness of the crowd. In Source C we can see a painting of sturdy, well-fed strikers fighting at the Docks. This was obviously not the real condition the men were in as Britains populations consisted mostly of under nourished, over-worked males-who would have been worse due to the Strike. This source is bound to be unreliable and biased because it was drawn by a member of a Trade Union 28 years after the end of the Strike, even though there was some violence the painting shows just a snapshot of the whole picture and what was happing a cross the country. From Source A we learn that altogether 4000 people were prosecuted for violence or incitement to violence and about a quarter of these received prison sentences. This is an inconsequential number among the millions of strikers and not a major reason to call off the Strike but if there had been aggression the T.U.C might have never recovered. For if there had been hostility the Trade Unions would have lost the sympathy vote and therefore most of their support. Source A is relatively reliable because it is written after the event by a third party. The government could have created far more effective propaganda from a violent strike than a peaceful one. The government also used propaganda to incite brutality. The main line of attack was through The British Gazette, but the strikers had a newspaper too, The British Worker, and they were able to combat the propaganda and broadcast messages, encouragement, warnings and advice to their followers. The sources from both ne wspapers announcing the end of the Strike use words that conjure up images of war, for example, surrender, peace and unconditional. In my view this was a final attempt on both sides to justify the Strike, as wars are thought of as just causes by some and would make the government happy because they had victory and the workers more angry and devoted to their cause due to their losing. The Strike had lost some early support due to a number of peoples believing that the Trade Unions were attacking the British system of government and attempting to overthrow it. They linked it to the Russian Revolution which was known for its violence and brutality (towards the upper classes). The Russian Revolution had begun with widespread strikes and troubled workers, so people were afraid. Also individuals were afraid of syndicalism, the belief that the workers should run the industries as this is rather like communism and would leave many factory and mine owners redundant or in the same circumstances as their own workers. Some early support for the Strike had dried up, perhaps it was going on for too long and people lost interest or perhaps supporters became worried as to how it would affect themselves and their jobs. The Strike could be perceived as a class war and this is illustrated in Source C which shows workers united and fighting for a common cause against a brutal govern ment. Perhaps people believed the working classes were trying to hold the rest of the country to account for its hardships. Others believed it was just two obstinate groups of people on a collision course and assumed they would work out their problems. Unity in the Trade Union Congress might have been fractured. In a source I have seen; a Punch Cartoon from April 1921 An Employers View of the Triple Industrial Alliance there is a three headed dog representing Cerberus-guardian of the gates to the underworld. The three heads, labelled transport, miners and railways are different. Miners looks angry and unsettled whereas the other two look tired and fed up. This shows where most of the turmoil in the T.U.C. was coming from. The miners head is in the middle- as if it is controlling the other parties. Though this is from an employers viewpoint it cannot be ignored as the miners seem, throughout the Strike and even before, to be the angriest, most dangerous of the groups-perhaps the others werent quite so supportive of the Strike and didnt want it to drag on. Another place we can see the miners playing a domineering role in the Strike is Sources D and E. These both state that negotiations are to be resumed in the coal dispute and that t he miners call delegate conference. There is no mention of the other groups of people on Strike-the miners clearly were forthright and more important. So to conclude these sources can tell us opinions and views on the General Strike from both sides but they are mostly biased due to the uses they served. . Source A shows that the strike was mainly peaceful and the government was not able to provoke them which reflects that the strikers were not angry about the strike and hence were looking for a peaceful end to the strike as soon as possible. Source B is vital in explaining why the strike was called off as it shows that the strike was not having the desired effect since goods and services were still being provided by the government. Source C portrays a violent picture but this was not the case across the country. The painting shows that the unions did not have much option but to have a strong, united confrontation with the government but most of the strikers did not have the desire for this and the unions failed to keep the strike going by not being able to have deep unity. Source D shows that the strikers were somewhat glad the str ike was over and tried to show that it ended as they had achieved their aims through negations and there was no need to continue with the strike. This puts on a brave face in the face of what in fact was a defect of the Unions that led to the end of the strike. Source E shows that the government had totally defeated the unions and hence ending the strike, although this was a government paper and can be seen as biased, it turns out to be true as the unions did not achieve any of their aims. However, the two newspaper articles announcing the end of the General Strike are very brief and showed how the government and T.U.C. were trying not to draw great attention to it, as if both sides agreed it was an embarrassment. At the end of the Strike the T.U.C may have hoped that new and unofficial proposals by Sir Herbert Samuel would permit the miners and mine owners to renew negotiations. This was not so. Most men got their jobs back but 3000 men endured recrimination from employers and the railwaymen had to accept pay cuts on return to work. The miners remained on strike for several months. They were ultimately forced back to work after hunger and cold, under the conditions they had neglected in April. All the recommendations of the Samuel Commission, including the ones the government had accepted, were ignored.