Slavery Is Like An Electric Fence - 1776 Words

â€Å"The topic of slavery is like an electric fence. Touch it and people will react.† The history of slavery in Puerto Rico is rather particular as the demand for slaves, and by extension slave labour, developed later than in other regions already dependent on forced labour in the plantations. The purpose of this paper is to offer a comparative critical review of two articles, which examined slavery and its abolition in Puerto Rico during the 19th century. Through a comparative analysis about the causes and effects of the abolition in Puerto Rico presented in Freedom in the making: the slaves of hacienda La Esperanza, Manatà ­, Puerto Rico, on the eve of abolition, 1868-76 by Astrid Cubano Iguina and The End of Slavery and the End of Empires: Slave Emancipation in Cuba and Puerto Rico by Christopher Schmidt-Nowara, the respective merits of each article will be considered. The strengths and weaknesses of each author’s arguments will also be assessed in order to deciph er which of the two articles is the strongest. To begin, although both articles explore slavery and its steps towards abolition in Puerto Rico they utilize different methodologies and present diverging causes and effects for its eradication in the 19th century. Iguina’s piece examines slavery from a social perspective by revealing the experiences of slaves on the sugar plantation La Esperanza, whereas Nowara analyzes slavery through rather economic and political lenses. Freedom in the Making argues that the drivingShow MoreRelatedChallenges And Impacts Of Robots870 Words   |  4 Pagesmachine, and electric grills. Q: Are robots the answer to run a shop in the United States to keep costs down? I am on the fence with this question. I am back and forth because it would make sense to have AI’s and robots of the sorts taking jobs in the United State, mainly because they are cheaper and sometimes easier to deal with. We would be cutting costs without human error, and would be cutting costs with salary wages. There are so many factories in America that use robots, like Ford and AmazonRead MoreThe Prison System At Parchman1032 Words   |  5 PagesWorse than Slavery is a monograph that discusses Parchman Prison and gives various accounts of men and women who lived within the prison. Overall, Parchman was another way for white men to stay in charge and to keep black men oppressed. During this time, ninety percent of the prison population was African American. Although slavery had ended many years prior to the establishment of Parchman, it had many characteristics of slavery. The prison system at Parchman reflects themes of poverty, racism andRead MoreThe Debate About Abor tion And Abortion1709 Words   |  7 Pagesvagina. The use of the pill is called medical abortion and is viable for pregnancies that are less than 63 days from the day of conception. Secondly, one can opt for surgical abortion which involves evacuation of the fetus by use of either a manual or electric vacuum. â€Å"The procedure is viable for pregnancies that are in their second trimester† (journalwatch.org). The legalization of abortion faces controversy due to the definition of an embryo and whether a fetus is a human being and therefore shouldRead MoreAnalysis Of Mark Twain s A Connecticut Yankee1764 Words   |  8 PagesHow to train your human In 1889 Mark Twain’s publishes A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court, which is consider the first science fiction novel. Like most science fiction stories, there is time travel and futuristic technology messing with the past. Hank Morgan is sent into the past after getting knocked unconscious by a man named Hercules with a crowbar. After realizing that he is in the past, he uses his knowledge of an impending solar eclipse to trick the masses into making him the secondRead MoreEssay on Animal Rights: Turning the Tables2311 Words   |  10 PagesAbraham Lincoln once said, â€Å"Whenever I hear anyone arguing for slavery, I feel a strong impulse to see it tried on him personally.† Many animal activists see a strong comparison between animals used for research or entertainment and slaves (Day, 1994). Every year millions of animals are killed while being used for testing and entertainment. Some may say that animals do not have emotions so using them for these types of activities is acceptable. In spite of that, a huge question that arises is whetherRead MoreEssay on History of the Prison System3187 Words   |  13 Pagesaccused of criminal acts pending some form of trial. The idea of confining persons after a trial as punishment for their crimes is relatively new. During the 15th century in Europe, the penalties for crimes were some form of corporal punishment like whippings for less serious crimes and execution or enslavement for more serious offenses. In early 16th century England, vagrants and petty offenders were committed to correctional institutions known as workhouses. During the reign of QueenRead MoreEudora Welty a Worn Path12166 Words   |  49 Pagesthroat is permanently damaged. His grandmother is the only relative he has left, and she makes the trip to town to receive medicine that soothes the pain. There has been no change in his condition, Phoenix tells the nurse, he sits with his mouth open like a little bird. She also says that though he suffers, he has a sweet look. Though Phoenix says he is not dead, some critics have theorized that he is. The Hunter The hunter encounters Phoenix after she has fallen into a ditch, the unfortunate resultRead MoreEudora Welty a Worn Path12173 Words   |  49 Pagesthroat is permanently damaged. His grandmother is the only relative he has left, and she makes the trip to town to receive medicine that soothes the pain. There has been no change in his condition, Phoenix tells the nurse, he sits with his mouth open like a little bird. She also says that though he suffers, he has a sweet look. T hough Phoenix says he is not dead, some critics have theorized that he is. The Hunter The hunter encounters Phoenix after she has fallen into a ditch, the unfortunate resultRead MoreTrial by Fire16438 Words   |  66 Pageshelp the Willinghams pay for funeral arrangements. Fire investigators, meanwhile, tried to determine the cause of the blaze. (Willingham gave authorities permission to search the house: â€Å"I know we might not ever know all the answers, but I’d just like to know why my babies were taken from me.†) Douglas Fogg, who was then the assistant fire chief in Corsicana, conducted the initial inspection. He was tall, with a crew cut, and his voice was raspy from years of inhaling smoke from fires and cigarettesRead MoreTrial by Fire16445 Words   |  66 Pagesto help the Willinghams pay for funeral arrangements. Fire investigators, meanwhile, tried to determine the cause of the blaze. (Willingham gave authorities permission to search the house: â€Å"I know we might not ever know all the answers, but I’d just like to know why my babies were taken from me.†) Douglas Fogg, who was then the assistant fire chief in Corsicana, conducted the initial inspection. He was tall, with a crew cut, and his voice was raspy from years of inhaling smoke from fires and cigarettes

Yolngu people Free Essays

Compare and contrast the life stages and life course of your own cultural group with that of a significantly cultural group within Australia. Media Child’s You Just need to ensure your sentences are direct and to the point – applying the correct terminology Introduction The Yowling indigenous people make up one of the oldest cultures on earth, stretching back more than 40,000 years and make up more than 50 clans, each has its own country, they have with twelve different dialects and many ceremonies that are all concerned with acting out the stones and lore’s of the ancestral pasts which Is tutee different to western life In Australia. The Yowling people divide themselves Into two basic divisions, or moieties, called Dhow and Wartime and are connected by a complex kinship system called guru. We will write a custom essay sample on Yolngu people or any similar topic only for you Order Now They have avoidance relationships with son- in-law, mother-in-law and brothers and sisters for their culture to function unlike Australian culture where we have no (need extra). The genders attend ceremonies separately to follow traditions unlike our customs where all a mix of genders are supposed to attend functions. Life stages are the are the steps we go through wrought our life journey that shape our identity, some stages are rights of passage others are actions or just simply participation that affects the self due to the experiences that we encounter. The fundamental deference between the cultures is the connection to the country or land and how the Yowling people see their land as their mother; who will take care of them and watch over them whereas we see land and property to Improve our finances and as as our status. Body Life stages form outsource is the path from birth until death that is shaped by our sections; the concept of our life stages where certain age groups go through rites of passage is similar is the same In both cultures. Often involving individuals being separated from society to go through the translator and then being reincorporated back Into society: such as ceremony for Yowling people and marriage for Australians where we (give wedding example). The Yowling hold some ceremonies just for men that are intended to mark a new stage of life for the individual and develops one’s identity within the Yowling culture which is essential for progressing towards man hood and to be accepted as a man. It may involve being taken away from the group for up to a week to learn different skills such as hunting and when they come back they are viewed as a valued contributor that holds a different more experienced status or role after the ceremony (good). In typical Australian culture life stages can form a series of rights of passage such as getting our car license, turning eighteen or moving out of These stages are marked by events and functions. Often events such as an eighteenth birthday mark an important time in an individual’s life where they’re now considered as an adult. .. Giving them the right to†¦. Portent due to their specialized knowledge because they have been around the longest and have experienced the most whereas in Australian culture we are a capitalist society and value people with power, money and authority; we value materialistic items whereas the Yowling people value knowledge and care about what’s on the inside, not the outside (physical appearance). The Yowling people holder stronger bonds outside blood ties, they have strong links with their extended family and are expected to follow family traditions whereas in Australian culture we focus on our immediate family (be specific – what type of Emily). Yowling groups are connected by a complex kinship system called guru, this system governs fundamental aspects of Yowling life, including responsibilities for ceremony and marriage rules. Yowling life is divided into two moieties, Dhow and Wartime, each of these is represented by people of a different number of groups, each that have their own lands, languages and totems. Avoidance relationships also exist in Yowling culture the two main ones include son in law, mother in law and brother and sister. In Australian culture we have similar relationships where it is frowned upon for first cousins to marry and is illegal to marry your brother or sister. The life course or path that one chooses may depend on life events and the opportunities put in front of them. Yowling culture performs traditional rituals and would never do anything to hurt the land, as the land is their mother, which ensures that they follow traditions and stick to their culture rules to protect what means most to them. They look up to the elders in their tribe and share tight bonds within their group; they see each other together as one and thrive of the idea of belonging. The sys all aim to be selected to go through ceremony to become a man and see it as a reward. If you have not had the ceremony yet you cannot marry nor fall in love. Whereas in Australian culture we have more freedom with the choices we choose to make with the help and influence of our peers. We look up to our parents and older family members but also the ones with power and money such as teachers or a wealthy boss. In Australian culture we have the choice to determine our own interests and hobbies, our peers have shaped us to be who we are but we also have individuality. In life we are expected to follow through with traditional education and hobbies and care for one another, mainly your immediate family. Our gender within society reflects the roles we play and the choices we determine. In Australia we tend to want to follow our path to self-fulfillment and to get a good Job and earn a satisfying income. Conclusion The life stages and life course of the Yowling culture and our Australian culture both explore different traditions and experiences that shape and define the people we are today. While we all experience life stages our lives are marked by different rites of How to cite Yolngu people, Papers

Operation Management for Public Administration- myassignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about theOperation Management for Public Administration. Answer: The way in which emergency management helps to save lives in emergency mainly flood Emergency management can be defined as strategic management of resources and responsibilities in order to deal with humanitarian aspects of tragedies. Emergency management makes pre-arrangement so that quick action can be taken at the time of flood. This is supported by proper action plan and budget (Waugh Streib, 2006). Set up of shelter area is done for the survivors and provide first and psycho-social support. For flood, preparedness kit is prepared and stored and same is distributed among needy families at the time of emergency. Further, individuals are trained so they save lives. Emergency plan B is also prepared and tested during rehearsals. The way in which emergency management makes the people feel safe It is general tendency for normal human to get panicked at the time of disaster or at the time of indication of disaster. At this time it is essential for rescue team and regulatory authorities to be confident and mentally strong to provide assurance to the public that they are safe and rescue plan is prepared in case of emergency (Haddow, Bullock and Coppola, 2017). They should broadcast the available resources and facilities they are having for the emergency so that public can be mentally prepared for the emergency and can act rationally. The way in which emergency management helps to maintain security in some certain areas At the time of flood, shelter area will be secured and sufficiently equipped with resources. Barriers will be constructed to stop the flood water and walls will be secured with the seals of waterproofing compounds in order to prevent seepage (Kreibich, Mller, Schrter and Thieken, 2017). Further regular guidance will be provided by local authorities. Trained and experience team will be there to help public and to console them so they do not panic and can follow guidance of team. Need to save animals Yes animals needed to be saved at the time of flood or any other emergency however their priority will be based on available resources. So, first priority will be given to human and then animals will also be rescued and shifted to shelter home (Haddow, Bullock and Coppola, 2017). For example in case of fire, first people will be saved from burning and then team will save animals as well. References Haddow, G., Bullock, J., Coppola, D. P. (2017).Introduction to emergency management. Butterworth-Heinemann. Kreibich, H., Mller, M., Schrter, K., Thieken, A. H. (2017). New insights into flood warning reception and emergency response by affected parties.Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences,17(12), 2075. Waugh, W. L., Streib, G. (2006). Collaboration and leadership for effective emergency management.Public administration review,66(s1), 131-140.

The Main Communication Channels in Organizations

The main communication channels that are commonly used in my organization are wireline and wireless communication channels. Being a hospitality company, the top officials are frequent interaction with the junior officials for consistency.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Main Communication Channels in Organizations specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The main forms of communication under the wireline channel are telephone calls and computer networks (Middleton, 2002). In this organization, senior officers usually use telephones to communicate within the organization, as well as to organize external meetings and interviews among others. On the other hand, wireless communication channel involves the use of internet through computers, mobile phones, televisions, and radio calls. Since the organization has an official website all official communication within the organization as well as to the organization’s c lients is done through the internet. Telephone and radio calls are mostly used by the top officials to communicate meetings or emergencies. According to Middleton (2002), some of the main interferences within communication channels resulting into noise are electromagnetic interferences, and interferences of radio frequencies among others. As it has been revealed, interferences of the electromagnetic system usually cause inefficiency in the performances the entire system, resulting into noises. Further, interferences of the radiation emitted by most of the electronic appliances may interfere with the frequencies in the entire communication system, resulting into noise. One of the main strategies that ought to be incorporated in my organization’s communication system is a ‘short message’ notification for an official message. Since many officials are not always logged in their e-mails, it would be quite important if the system is made more effective through ‘s hort message’ notification for any new message from the administration. It should be noted that, e-mails are not only effective means of communication, but also necessary in the current society dominated by digital communication. Basically communication has largely improved because of technology since it is easier for information to reach large number of audience within a very short time (Middleton, 2002). According to Middleton (2002), organization’s climate affects communication largely. If in an organization there is free interaction between the top and lower officials, communication would be easier and effective. On the other hand, when lower ranked employees are restricted to freely interact with their top officials, communication would be limited among the social classes.Advertising Looking for essay on business communication? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Generally, the recurring pattern of behavior with in an organization determines a lot the overall communication patterns within the organization. Generally, the organizational climate determines the how inter-group of interpersonal communication trends are facilitated. As reported by Middleton (2002), non-verbal communication is one of the most powerful means of communication within an organization. Non-verbal communication involves the use of body signs and signals to denote a certain meaning. Some of the main non-verbal communication modes are facial expressions, gestures and changes of behavior. On this basis, the development of skills to read non-verbal communication effectively is important. Through training of the non-verbal language of communication, it becomes possible for the members in the organization to understand each other more accurately. After being trained on various implications of the body language, an individual develops appropriate skills necessary to effectively read non-verbal communication. In the organizati on that I work for, nonverbal communication is largely used in my workplace. In this case, gestures and facial expressions are the main nonverbal communication modes used. For instance, if an individual is not happy with the supervisor’s behavior he or she frowns, indicating his dissatisfaction by the supervisor’s action or message. More so, gestures are largely used to notify an individual about an attention needed at certain point urgently. Hand gestures are the most popularly used form of gestures in my work place, since the noise made by machines does not enhance effective verbal communication (Middleton, 2002). As held by Middleton (2002), communication within organizations may be either through formal or informal channels. One of the main advantages of formal communication is that, the messages can be stored for future use. More so, messages from formal communication can be tested for accuracy and reliability. However, informal channel of communication requires f ormal skills of expressing ideas. On this basis, formal communication is only limited to the elite and skillful individuals within an organization. On the other hand, the main advantage of informal organization is that, it does not require special skills and results into more interpersonal relationships within an organization. However, informal communication channels may be deceptive, resulting into its unreliability for future references. One of the most commonly used informal communications in organizations is rumors.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Main Communication Channels in Organizations specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More One of the ways in which organizations can use rumors in their organization is to spread rumor of cutting back to maximize production in their organization. By being closer to the employees and subsequently paying more attention to the atmospheres of workplace, managers would make emp loyees more productive since they would be more motivated. According to Middleton (2002), it is ultimately not ethical for managers to rely on rumors since they are ultimately unreliable and may arouse tension within the organization. Generally, use of rumors in organizations is an informal communication means which is unethically acceptable as means of communication within organizations, despite being a motivating agent among the employees. Reference Middleton, J. (2002). Organizational Behavior. New York: Capstone Publishing. This essay on The Main Communication Channels in Organizations was written and submitted by user Zoey Sloan to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free Essays on Julius Ceasar-Honor

An Honorable Leadership Honor is one of the main underlying themes in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, a tragic play that explains, through Brutus’ conflict with himself and with other main characters, that the end does not justify the means. Brutus's noble and honest traits, most opposite of Caesar, Cassius, and Antony, prove to reconcile his true leadership ability. Throughout the play, the themes of persuasion and propaganda bombard Brutus with conflict, but his honest seeds compel him to continue on in his battle for the good of Rome. In the beginning, we learn of the jealousy of Cassius, a "loyal" politician in Caesar’s court who is hungry for power. It is this jealousy that drives Cassius to use the power of persuasion on Brutus. He quickly encourages Brutus to trust him in that Caesar has become a tyrant and that he must be stopped for the good of Rome. Brutus soon forms a raw decision based on the given facts, but he does not make a shady one. "If it be aught toward the general good, Set honor in one eye and death i’ th’ other And I will look on both indifferently"(page 11, line 85); Brutus carries this inspiration with him throughout the play and is driven by a thought of the honor, not corruption reminiscent of Cassius's actions. As the story progresses, Brutus naturally takes on the role of the leader, and plots an assassination in which he anticipates that the end will justify the means. Brutus undergoes a battle with himself in which he struggles over the question of what good he wil l be doing for the people of Rome. Opportunely, he is reminded of how much of a tyrant Caesar was when Caesar said, "I could be well moved, if I were as you; If I could pray to move prayers would move me. But I am constant as the northern star, Of whose true-fixed and resting quality There is no fellow in the firmament"(page 49, line 59). As Brutus sees what an autocrat Caesar has become and distinguishes that the only w... Free Essays on Julius Ceasar-Honor Free Essays on Julius Ceasar-Honor An Honorable Leadership Honor is one of the main underlying themes in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, a tragic play that explains, through Brutus’ conflict with himself and with other main characters, that the end does not justify the means. Brutus's noble and honest traits, most opposite of Caesar, Cassius, and Antony, prove to reconcile his true leadership ability. Throughout the play, the themes of persuasion and propaganda bombard Brutus with conflict, but his honest seeds compel him to continue on in his battle for the good of Rome. In the beginning, we learn of the jealousy of Cassius, a "loyal" politician in Caesar’s court who is hungry for power. It is this jealousy that drives Cassius to use the power of persuasion on Brutus. He quickly encourages Brutus to trust him in that Caesar has become a tyrant and that he must be stopped for the good of Rome. Brutus soon forms a raw decision based on the given facts, but he does not make a shady one. "If it be aught toward the general good, Set honor in one eye and death i’ th’ other And I will look on both indifferently"(page 11, line 85); Brutus carries this inspiration with him throughout the play and is driven by a thought of the honor, not corruption reminiscent of Cassius's actions. As the story progresses, Brutus naturally takes on the role of the leader, and plots an assassination in which he anticipates that the end will justify the means. Brutus undergoes a battle with himself in which he struggles over the question of what good he wil l be doing for the people of Rome. Opportunely, he is reminded of how much of a tyrant Caesar was when Caesar said, "I could be well moved, if I were as you; If I could pray to move prayers would move me. But I am constant as the northern star, Of whose true-fixed and resting quality There is no fellow in the firmament"(page 49, line 59). As Brutus sees what an autocrat Caesar has become and distinguishes that the only w...

Star Wars in Spanish

Star Wars in Spanish If you want to talk with your Spanish-speaking friends about Star Wars, the Fundacà ³n del Espaà ±ol Urgente has some advice for you. Known in English as the Foundation for Urgent Spanish, the Royal Spanish Academy-affiliated organization also called Fundà ©u BBVA has issued guidelines to aid Spanish speakers and publications in discussing the space saga. Among them are that the film series should not be referred to by its English name - as is common - but by the Spanish name for the first film in the series: La guerra de las galaxias (literally The War of the Galaxies). As is the case with other compositition titles, only the first word should be capitalized. As with that piece of advice, Fundà ©us other recommendations show some similarities and differences with English: Precuela is an acceptable word to refer to a prequel, just as secuela is acceptable for a sequel.Although in English we can talk about Episode 5, in Spanish its episodio V.Theres no need to capitalize the names of groups of creatures, just as names of ethnic groups arent capitalized. Thus the Ewoks are known as los ewoks. (In words of recent foreign origin, it is common to pluralize by appending -s rather than -es as is usually done with words ending in a consonant.)Jedis are known as jedis, but the Jedi Order can be written with capitalization as la Orden Jedi.Names of spaceships are capitalized much as they are in English. Thus the Millennial Falcon is el Halcà ³n Milenario.A laser is un lser.A hard-core fan can be called un or una friki, whose spelling is preferred to friqui.A series of nine films can be called either una nonalogà ­a or una enealogà ­a. Im not sure what the English equivalent is, but this is similar to the way a series of three films is called a trilogà ­a in Spanish (trilogy in English). The entire saga can be referred to as, well, una saga even though the traditional meaning of saga refers to legends less grand.The use of franquicia (franchise) should be avoided in referring to the movies series itself - its better to use serie. Franquicia should be used to refer to merchandise and spinoffs (such as comic books) based on the movie series.Luke Skywalker? Hes  Lucas Caminante de los Cielos, a calque. And Han Solo is simply Han Solo.  Native speakers have often written the name as Han Sà ³lo, but Fundà ©u says the accent isnt needed.

The Motorcycle Company Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Motorcycle Company - Essay Example It is expected that the proposed budget will bring success for the company and will increase its market share tremendously. However, success of this project entirely depends upon the planning and implementation process, the concept and project of developing new and large motors for heavy vehicle is quite challenging because company is operating in an industry that is characterized by the production of small motors. Given below is the detailed analysis of procedures with the help of which we are going to achieve our goals. No2 Type of Required Staff Staffing is a function of Human Resources which incorporates the proper management of the workforce of an organization. Staffing involves all the steps required to create an efficient workforce for an organization and to maintain the efficiency of that workforce. Staffing incorporates all the functions of a human resource department from recruitment and hiring to evaluation, promotion and layoffs. Effective staffing is very important for t he growth and success of an organization (Ranne, 2011). It helps an organization get the best employees for all of its departments and this ensures higher productivity and better performance. Individuals of different technical and non-technical backgrounds were assigned to the pilot project team on either a full or part-time basis. Also, managers from both production and business departments were included to coordinate the effort and provide inputs to the project team. Each participant belonged to one or more of the five entities defined for the project: planning board, project board, project team, key stakeholders and key resources (see Fig. 1). The staffing will be based on the internal guidelines of the company for the production of new motors. Fig. 1: Project organization View Within Article The planning board will be responsible for the high-level effort and its strategic alignment with business processes. It will compose of an End-user designing and execution committee (EDEC), a planning manager, and the chief information officer (CIO) as its chair. EDEC provided related feedbacks on DWG from a business-user perspective. The project board will be responsible for overall practical planning, coordination, and evaluation of the project, with close cooperation from business customers in functional departments. Business customers were responsible for the validation of new motor models and follow-up on modeling issues specific to business requirements. The board consisted of a planning manager as the project sponsor and liaison between the boards, a technical representative, and three representatives from customer departments. Since business units of the company were organized according to three customer levels (individual, group, and corporate), one representative from each customer level participated in the project board. According to the internal guidelines, key stakeholders should be people whose departments will be affected by the implementation of large motors. In this project, however, because of the crucial importance of stakeholders’ role, they were directly involved in the planning and project boards. No3 Team building Strategies Team building is an important and crucial part

Business ethic analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Business ethic analysis - Essay Example Without ethical measures and programs the company is set to loss the benefit it has enjoyed financially by doing business ethically. We should always put in mind the principles of professional ethic which if our company would take into account we are going to avoid potential or apparent conflict of interest which in this case I see us breaching.   Ethical dilemma My point of concern is payment of bonuses to shareholders in these times of economic crisis when we have not even completed repaying of the loan granted to us by the government and further organizing retreats for the employees. I have realized that if we pay bonuses and continue organizing retreats, this will be more costly to the company. it is evident from the bonuses paid in 2008 and the retreat organized when the company was experiencing financial difficulties has impacted negatively on the public image of the company and its performance (French,1995). It is highly expected that we are going to pay bonuses to our share holders and the employees are expectant of the retreat. If we grant bonuses, it is going to be highly costly financially since the company has not been able to fully from the economic crisis that we have just been through. Because of the position of our company, anything we do would be highly publicized in the media thus creating unwanted attention from the public whose money has been used to bail us. On the other hand, failure to pay bonuses would raise eyebrows to our trusted shareholders and employees. Employees further expect to be motivated and over the year’s retreats for them has been the mean of motivating them. This company has to strive to maintain its reputation which it has built over the years. Ethical practices have been key to the success and performance of this company. Although the company is set to benefit by rewarding best performance of its employees, it has to consider the implications to the public which is a critical part of this company. Furthermore, o ur shareholders are critical to the continuous success of this company but payment of bonuses at such a time might have negative implications on the integrity of the company since it has not even cleared repayment of loans resulting from the bail out by the government and also considering that the company has been selling off some of its holdings and subsidiaries to clear the loan. The management of this company thus needs to offer continued support to enable the ethical values of this company to work.    Furthermore the company needs to communicate this effectively to employees and shareholders. It is in my view that we should include in our code of conduct  when the company can organize retreats for its employees and when the bonuses can be paid without having any negative impact on the company’s reputation. The issue of giving bonuses and organizing retreats is unethical especially at such a time when the company is just recovering from financial difficulties (French, 1995). It is obvious that incentives and rewards play an important role in motivating employees to accomplish corporate goals and a company committed to doing business ethically would want to reward its employees for that. But the matter of rewarding employees by organizing retrea

Write from Memory Essay Example for Free

Write from Memory Essay The writer and narrator Marcel Proust is a very interesting fellow. The Overture or also called â€Å"Swan Way† describes Marcel early childhood and also opens up to him stating â€Å"For a long time I use to go to bed early.† Marcel Proust describes how difficult it was just for him to fall asleep. He then falls asleep, he then states he was reading a book prior however when he finally fell asleep imagining he is part of the book he was reading or well subject to it, but he awakes to find out that he was asleep. (Proust, 1909) The Overture is more of an autobiographical than anything else. The Overture sets the tone for the rest of his novels and the major theme is the relationship between time and memory. There is one part in the story where Marcel is drinking tea and eating sponge cake. This instantly causes a relaxation in Marcel and eventually reminds him of his past memories where he would have a similar meal back in â€Å"Combrary†. This is another example in involuntary memory as he was not trying to remember the past it just came naturally by the cue of drinking tea and eating a sponge cake. (Proust, 1909) The biggest difference from Marcel Prousts â€Å"Overture† and an more realistic novel is that it isnt organized in genuine sense or rather when Proust wrote the Overture he would talk about the future, past, and present which were laid out in memory. The main characters of the story were all introduced in the beginning. The narrative also changes from first person to third person which was unusual in writing realistic novel as the perspective generally stays the same throughout the story. The way Marcel Proust wrote his long paragraphs to sentences so he could fully tell his metaphors. When reading the Overture I cant help, but be instilled as if I was there with Marcel during that time of his telling it.

Self Discovery in Huckleberry Finn and Catcher in the Rye :: comparison compare contrast essays

Self Discovery in Huckleberry Finn and Catcher in the Rye    Huckleberry Finn and Holden Caulfield make take journey into self-discovery. In The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Huck Finn is trying to find purpose and identity through conflicting of morals. While Holden Caulfield in Catcher in the Rye, is an adolescent struggling to find mature into manhood. In comparison, they are both on a journey towards maturity and identity. Life itself is a journey full of bonding and experiences which lead to wisdom and understanding. Without maturity one may never have these essential experiences. This leads to an empty shell of a person, never truly feeling passion, love or peace.    Huck Finn is a young boy deciding which morals to hold true. The quest for what's right is long and confusing. During his adventure is forced to choose between his morals and his conscience. When Huck runs into the bounty hunters he is forced to make one of these decisions. He must choose whether to turn his run-away slave friend Jim as his conscience advises or to trust his morals and protect his friend in need. Fortunately, his will is strong and he creates an elaborate lie to prevent Jim's capture. Huck seeks refuge in nature, where right and wrong don't exist and life's beauty is what is truly important. He mentions that nature is peaceful and he need not worry about either his morality or conscience but is allowed to ponder these personal discrepancies.    Holden Caulfield, however, has a much more complex yet equally important struggle. His struggle is of his own hypocrisy and misunderstanding. This struggle can be overwhelming for some and it is for Holden who requires help to come to terms with maturity. Even though he is constantly speaks as if he is experienced in connection and bonding, they were always just faà ¿ ades. Holden thinks he is superior to his environment because he has a false knowledge of it and it's workings. This is best explained by his reaction his old friend June whom he would like to have a meaningful relationship with but cant come to grips on how. Inspite of all he thinks he knows he is really only the faker he despises. Both Huck and Holden must complete their own journey's to become complete individuals.

Course reflection Essay

I have learned so much during this course that helped me get a better understanding of the writing process. A few of the concepts that helped me the most were keeping an error log, and reading my assignments out loud. The first concept I will address in this discussion is also the most important guidance I have received since starting at Ashford. My instructor, Dr. Wells, advised me in week 1, that I might want to keep an error log. What that is, is writing down the mistakes I make in my assignments, quizzes, and discussions. After writing these errors down, find the correct spelling or the grammatical rule I broke, write the correct answer, and then study and learn from these mistakes. This technique has helped me the most since starting at Ashford. As a writer, I have always been a big proofreader of my work. I would sometimes look over my papers several times before submitting them. Most of the times I would catch 90% of my errors, not all the time though. I learned that reading your paper out loud can also improve your proofreading. Sometimes just looking over a paper isn’t enough. When you hear the writing though, you can hear what others will be hearing. I would catch small errors because the sentence didn’t sound right or it was a run on sentence. These are things I would sometimes miss just reading my paper. Out of all the course materials I have read and studied, I believe 2 of the most valuable were chapters 4-3, Essentials of College Writing, and The Ashford Writing Center. In the Essentials of College Writing, 4-3 The Writing Process, showed me different techniques to use for writing an essay. Some of these ideas were plan, generate ideas, create a rough draft, revise, edit, and proofread and check format. This book taught me the value of making an outline and the importance of planning. It always helps to be prepared and have an idea of what you’re writing before you write it. The Ashford Writing Center has really made a big impact on my writing style. I was having so much trouble with APA formatting and how to insert citations, that I would lose percentage points on my work. After skimming through this text, I found in chapter 7-1 an instructional video that showed me step by step how to use APA format. In the same book, chapter 7-3, Citations and References, this taught me the proper way to insert my citations. There is also a thesis generator in this text in chapter 3-3, this has been one of the biggest helps to me in my writing process. The areas and that I believe have improved the most, and that I will continue to work on are my spelling and punctuation. The error log has helped with my spelling and punctuation but I still sometimes make careless mistakes. Though these areas have improved a lot, I will continue to work on these areas.

Open Ended Questions in Research Essay

Questionnaires and surveys are useful for determining the attitudes, characteristics, profiles, beliefs from a sample of people. In designing a questionnaire that focuses on open ended questions the main concern should be on determining the way the responses will be quantified. Open ended questions are often used in research to clarify closed questions or as a means of generating ideas. In both cases it is generally assumed that the longer and more detailed the response to an open ended question the better (Graziano et al, 2000). However, relatively little is known about the effect of factors such as question wording or questionnaire design on the response to open ended questions. There is a need to ask open ended questions when the researcher desires to probe deeper into a subject area. The use of open ended questions is more common in subjects which are relatively unrehearsed. Open ended questions are also of value, where response cannot be predicted, or maybe to the reduce potential for researcher induced bias. This method makes it possible to explore a range of ideas about a certain issue or topic. Open ended questionnaire questions can be also be quantified but in more indirect way. â€Å"Converting raw, open ended data from large sample sizes into meaningful categories that the researcher can utilize to quantify the results presents a challenge† (Culp, 1998). Several strategies can be used to convert these responses into meaningful information. Using qualitative data analysis software is rapidly becoming feasible. Using software applications that support content analysis and data linking and those that offer advanced linguistic analysis. The content-analysis applications allow an analyst to assess the number of times a participant uses a particular word or phrase in written material or transcribed remarks. By counting the frequency of words and noting the association of certain words, one can categorize themes and concepts. By thus â€Å"quantifying† the qualitative communication, an analyst can associate the resulting information with other quantitative data. A more sophisticated analysis is possible with linguistic analysis, which examines the semantics, syntax, and context of participant’s verbal communications. Linguistic analysis applications help the analyst  identify the key ideas in a text, gain an indication of the relative importance of each idea, and then develop a prediction of a participants attitude and or behavior based on the context of the remarks† (Gale, 2005). The author would also consider scoring qualitative open ended question with coded values. For example expression strong emotional response against an idea could be valued as a 3, while a moderate response could be scored as 2, and a neutral or vague response a 1. Another idea that could be utilized is coding using a Likert type scale based on how overtly strong an idea or opinion is expressed. This method could induce bias if the person doing the interview or scoring the questionnaire has a personal preference in this idea. The research question should not be made known to the person doing the scoring in order to reduce the possibility of bias. The author believes that bias could also be minimized if several individuals do the scoring and the score then be averaged. Summary The topic chosen by this author lends itself well to open ended questions as it solicits responses in terms of attitudes, opinions, and beliefs about the economy. The following open ended questions are an example of questions that might be used in an interview about this topic. †¢How do you feel about the current state of the economy?†¢What do you think caused the recent economic downfall?†¢How has the economy affected your budget?The author would use scoring qualitative open ended question with coded values. For example, strong response could be valued as a 3, while a moderate response could be scored as 2 and a neutral or vague response a 1. The author would then do an analysis of the content based on the categorizations of opinions and attitudes. In a full scale research project, the author would use a mixture of quantitative and qualitative question in order to establish opinions, thoughts, or beliefs on the subject. This would aid in the analysis of attitudes on the topic. The validity of this type of research is only in the accurate analysis of the opinions and attitudes of the participants. References Culp, K. & Pilat, M. (1999). Converting feedback into quantifiable  categories [Electronicversion]. Journal of Extension 37(4). Dilts, R., Grinder, J., Bandler, R., Delozier, J. (1980). The Study of the Structure of SubjectiveExperience, Neuro-Linguistic Programming: Vol I. CA: Meta PublicationsGale, T (2005). Let me count the words: quantifying open ended interactions with customers,Cornell Hotel & Restaurant Administration Quarterly Pub 01-Aug-2005, RetrievedMay 3, 2009 fromwww://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0198-245360/Let-me-count-the-words.htmSmith, R. A. & Davis, S. F. (2007), The Psychologist as Detective. New Jersey: PearsonEducation, Inc. Graziano, Anthony M. & Raulin, Michael L. (2000) Research Methods: A Process ofInquiry. Massachusetts: Allyn & Bacon.

Contently for Freelancers

Contently for Freelancers A freelancer in one of my online groups posted that he received a $500 writing assignment for a 500-word profile. This assignment fell into his lap because of his Contently profile. Im a firm believer in the not all your eggs in the same basket school of thought. Contently falls into this category. It wont generate enough money to be your sole source of income, but it is an additional money making avenue. Contently (www.contently.com) is a site that connects freelance writers with large corporate clients. Although freelancers cant actively search for work, the pay rates are significant enough to compensate. Most assignments are in the $0.75-$2.00 per word range. Most flat rates range from $200 to $1,500. To create a portfolio, go to Contently.com and create an account. Its free. It will take approximately 15-30 minutes to set up, depending on the number of clips you have to attach. Youll need a current email and at least one URL to a published work. You can also upload documents from your computer. Contently has a tool that will search for other works Leslie, a freelancer in the group, shared that he felt the

Case study #2 Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

#2 - Case Study Example With the intention to solve these issues, the CEO started his activities firstly from visiting the workplace of one of its rigs, named ‘Voyager 7’. The rig was quite small comprising 150 employees with a blend of skilled, unskilled and immigrant labours. Soon he began to depict that there was clear discrimination practiced in the workplace with regard to the living conditions and the working conditions of the lower level employees and the upper level employees. The upper level employees, who were also the immigrants, were provided with far better treatment in comparison to that of the local African employees. The local authorities of the government, despite being aware of the situation were never involved in taking any potential action to resolve the racial discrimination practiced within the organisation. After analysing the situation from the view point of the CEO, inferences have been drawn through the SWOTT analysis. Weaknesses: The situation has major drawbacks with the workplace environment being full of discrimination. Employees are treated differently on the basis of their nationality, race and designations, raising Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) related concerns, which might diminish stakeholders’ confidence on the company. Threats: The discrimination prevailing in the workplace is a threat to the integrity of the workplace. Owing to the absence of communication between the lower level employees and upper level employees, the expectation of effective performance of this rig is highly unrealistic. Trends: If the situation continues in this trend, chances of conflicts between the upper level and lower level employees are highly uncertain. Moreover, legal authorities might also halt the operations of the entire business owing to the illegal practices of discrimination in the workplace. The alternatives will need to be evaluated considering the objectives of the company regarding CSR, ensuring equality

Finance - BIS Capital Adequacy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Finance - BIS Capital Adequacy - Essay Example Among its more important committees is the Basel Committee which is responsible for the promulgation of banking regulation guidelines concerning supervisory issues. In this regard, Basel I (1988 Accord) was a landmark in the banking industry in that banks having an international presence are required to hold as a minimum 8% of their capital equal to the risk weighted assets (there are five risk weightings). Basel II, which came in June 2004, addressed some of the weaknesses from Basel I. Both accords, however, are designed to strengthen the financial banking system by requiring a more rigorous set of capital requirements for banks to meet their credit and capital risks. Furthermore, Basel II is more forward-looking by requiring banks to identify those risks now and in the future especially with the sudden surge in hedge funds and esoteric investment instruments such as credit default swaps and other derivatives. Basel II attempts to avoid systemic risks such as what happened in the U S subprime mortgage crisis which engulfed the entire banking system with spectacular collapses such as AIG. Basel II is also more comprehensive by requiring banks to maintain enough capital to certain risks by quantifying credit and operational risks. A bank that engages in more risky investments is required to maintain a higher capital adequacy ratio to remain solvent in case of a crisis. Other considerations are a banks residual risks and the mandatory disclosures to comply with international accounting rules and standards. This last provision is crucial as it gives counter-parties an idea of the risks they face when dealing with a certain international bank. This way, there are no ticking time bombs like CDS which Mr. Warren Buffett likens to weapons of mass destruction (Graham & Dodd 2008, p. 622) due to unregulated credit default swaps that

Pre-colombian america Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Pre-colombian america - Essay Example Incan empire was also a Pre-Columbian empire of America mainly concentrated in the South America. The main difference between the Aztec and the Incan empires is that the Incan empire acted like a large unified integrated empire where as the Aztec empire was considered to be a bigger city controlling a group of smaller cities. At the same time, Incan empire was larger than the Aztec empire and in fact it was the largest empire of the Pre-Columbian America during that period. Incan empire had its capital located in Cuzco. Its main concentration was in South America unlike the concentration of the Aztec empire in Central America. The origin of Incan empire was considered to be highlands of Peru during 1197. The Inca Empire was ruled by the Inca with an administrative units called dominions. Interestingly, the strength of this kingdom lied in its nature of economy in the form of the collective property of the land. They followed an aggressive policy after 1430s and concentrated much on e xpansion of kingdom especially in Western South America nearer to the Andes which comprises of present day countries like Peru, Argentina and Chile. However, during 1533 their last emperor Atahualpa, was killed due to Spanish attack under Francisco Pizarro. Hence the fall of both Aztec and Inca kingdoms was resulted due to attack from Spanish rulers. The main factor responsible for the decline of the Aztec kingdom was the human sacrifice conducted by them irrespective of social and political consequences. In other words, the blind faith in their religious and cultural feelings especially in human sacrifice gave the scope for outside rulers like the Spanish kings to attack and defeat them with a small number of soldiers. The fall of Incan empire was also due to religious factors like their illogical faith in superstitions. The very foundation of Incan empire on mythical thought, conceptualizing the

DQ Week 7 (Managing Professionals) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

DQ Week 7 (Managing Professionals) - Essay Example Of the four key traits that the Traits Model of Leadership identifies as being present in a successful leader, which have you seen in your favorite manager or supervisor? How were these traits demonstrated? The key traits I have seen in my favorite supervisor are personality and values. These traits are demonstrated every time she interacts with us. She is a soft-spoken, but formidable woman who does not let anything stress her out. If she does get stressed, she does not show her team members. She also comes to work early, and always makes sure protocol is followed when needed. I would choose a Theory Y manager because I would like my opinions to matter. I know I am the type of worker who takes pride in doing my job. As such, I would appreciate a manager who recognizes my effort and the work I put in. Two advantages come to mind in this situation. One would be getting work done because workers are motivated with the reward that comes after production. Another advantage is getting immediate feedback (punishment or reward) and thus knowing what areas need improvement so as to get better at one’s

Coca-Cola and PepsiCo in India: A Question of Multinational Corporation

Coca-Cola and PepsiCo in India: A Question of Multinational Corporation Coca-Cola and PepsiCo are the two largest corporations producing soft-drinks and bottled water today, therefore having a huge impact on people all around the world. One country in particular that has been greatly affected by these two corporations is India. Raman (2007) reported that both Coca-Cola and PepsiCo were initially attracted to India for production due to its expanding middle-class between the end of the 1980s and early 1990s as well as the extremely cheap supply of water (p. 107). Ironically, water is what ultimately caused the start of problems within India (in Kerala specifically) which came into view around 2001. The idea of water being a human right and the power that multinational corporations hold in foreign countries of the South became huge concerns. Canadians and many others around the world use these products daily, therefore making this very relevant to our daily lives. This paper will therefore argue that Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, although thought to help India ec onomically, has rather only caused many internal issues. Theoretical Backing Arturo Escobar and Gustavo Estevas post-development theory supports the argument that multinational corporations such as Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have only caused more problems in India rather than creating economic prosperity. Escobar explains that economic diversity is lost with modernization and development, which is what is happening in India. Their economy is highly based on the success of corporations within their country. The post-development theory also explains that environmental destruction is a negative result of modernization in third-world countries such as India. One of the major concerns with Coca-Cola and PepsiCo in Kerala, India are the environmental concerns, including polluted water, water depletion, and agricultural problems. The whole reason that Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have built factories in India is because it is the cheapest for them overall and there are less safety regulations. The government of India was convinced that allowing these factories to be built within their country would bring them economic prosperity (Raman, 2010, pg. 255), which has not necessarily happened. This could easily be linked to Andre Gunder Franks underdevelopment theory because the money that Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have made from their factories in India is immense and has brought development back to the north, however, it has only caused underdevelopment to occur within India and has brought on many internal problems. The main idea of the underdevelopment theory is that development in the Global North has caused underdevelopment in the Global South. It is the idea that these countries are not undeveloped, but they are still not as developed as the countries and companies exploiting them, which is the case in India. Looking at the base reasons as to why transnational corporations such as the Coca-Cola Company and PepsiCo would want to have factories in India can be linked to the theory of neoliberalism, which supports the idea of globalization and privatization. The reasons that these corporations are spreading themselves around the world is for more profit, which is an important part of neoliberalism. India itself has been becoming increasingly liberalized since the 1990s, as the country previously did not allow corporations like Coca-Cola to be sold or produced within the country, but it is now open to corporations. Overall, the argument of this paper will be based on the post-development theory, but the phenomenon of these corporations existing in India is based on neoliberalism. Research Analysis The Coca-Cola Company and PepsiCo corporations have had negative impacts in India in three major ways: first, they have been the cause for several environmental problems, especially with water depletion and agriculture. Secondly, many health problems have arisen out the pollution and pesticides used by the two corporations; and lastly, although they may contribute to the macroeconomics of the world, local economies in India have been virtually destroyed because of Coca-Cola and PepsiCo. Looking firstly at the issue of environmental issues that have arisen in India (namely within Plachimada in Kerala), water shortages and lack of safe drinking water have been the cause for major debate (Aiyer, 2008). The Coca-Cola Company was extracting anywhere from 500,000 to 1.5 million liters of groundwater a day (it takes roughly 3 liters of groundwater to make 1 liter of soft drink or 1 liter of bottled water) (p. 645). Plachimada was once a very plentiful place with a great amount of groundwater, which is why Coca-Cola originally decided to build up its factory there (Raman, 2007, p. 107). However, now residents are left with very little water for self-consumption, and in some areas, the water is not safe to drink at all (Hyams, 2004; Vedwan et al., 2007). This brings in a question of, who owns the water? Human rights suggests that water should be provided free to whoever needs it, but now Coca-Cola and PepsiCo own the only safe water, which has caused many legal issues in the recent past. Vedwan (2007) explains that there are simply not enough regulations governing the quality of commercial bottled beverages, which shows how multinational corporations often take advantage of underdeveloped countries like India. In Ghoshrays article (2007), Searching for Human Rights to Water amidst Corporate Privatization in India: Hindustan Coca-Cola Pvt. Ltd. v. Perumatty Grama Panchayat, he writes, At the heart of the case lies perhaps the most poignant legal battle of the current century: the corporate right to privatization versus the indigenous right to water,(1). Basically, the issue of water depletion in Plachimada has brought on many local economic problems. Agriculture is the largest industry in Kerala, India, but now many farmers can no longer afford to live happily (Aiyer, 2008, p. 650). Agriculture, once the backbone of the economy and the key source of capital accumulation, now only contributes 25 percent to the national GDP even as 75 percent of the population is dependent on it, (Hyams, 650). Their crops cannot grow without a sufficient amount of rainfall and groundwater. This means that local economies have been falling due to the Coca-Cola Company and PepsiCo factories in India, even though the companies have brought money into the country as a whole. The Indian Government will also have to start paying for this problem because if soil degradation gets worse, importing more foods may become necessary. Therefore, this issue is actually not good economically for much of India. Closely linked with environmental degradation, the health of the people in and amongst the area of Coca-Cola and PepsiCo has also become an issue. Hyams article, Killa-Cola (2004) explains that people had become getting sick just months after the Coca-Cola Plant was built in Kerala. The waters were eventually tested by the government, and it was declared that the once clean water was no longer drinkable. For the locals living in Plachimada, this news was terrible because for many, the local groundwater was their only source of clean water. Now women are expected to walk miles for fresh water each day (Raman, 2007, p. 110). Not only that, but Coca-Cola had suggested that local farmers use their fertilizer on their fields for better crops. The farmers were encouraged to spread the sludge on their land; the corporation said it was an excellent fertilizer that would improve their yields. This provided a cheap and convenient waste disposal mechanism for the factory (Hyams, 2004). Little d id they know that the sludge contained dangerous levels of toxic metals including lead, cadmium, and chromium. So not only were the people of Plachimada being poisoned by their water, but also by their food thanks to Coca-Cola. This problem has costed a lot of money for the Indian Government to deal with, and will surely cost more for them in the future. Sludge on the fields, however, was not the only health concern when Coca-Cola came to Plachimada. The drinks themselves, according to Raman (2007) and Ciochetto (2004), were also contaminated with pesticides. In India, however, it was the thoughtless ecological degradation that laid the land to waste and the poisonous content of the soft drinks themselves that were condemned by villagers and activists alike (Raman, 2007, p. 106). This issue is what ultimately brought most publicity to Kerala, India against the Coca-Cola Company. Even after this point, the CEOs of both PepsiCo and Coca-Cola did not really change their ways. In fact, Vedwans article (2007) explains, Perhaps, the most paradoxical act to undo the effects of bad publicity came from the PepsiCo CEO when he publicly opposed the adoption of European norms for beverages sold in India (p. 671). This ultimately leads to increased underdevelopment in Kerala and other areas being affected by the drinking corporations because the people of the region are basically sinking deeper into poverty without sufficient water, increased disease, and lack of food . The post-development theory supports this. The last reason as to why the Coca-Cola and Pepsi corporations have had a negative impact on the overall society in India is economic-based. Although the corporations have helped stimulate the macroeconomics, it is clear that the micro or local economies in India have become even worse that they had been in the past (Raman, 2010, p. 254). Aiyers article (2008), for example, mentions that the agriculture sector, which used to be the largest sector in India, now only accounts for 25 percent of the GDP compared to the 75 percent of the population who relies on it. Seventy percent of this rural population faces daily hunger in terms of caloric intake, (p. 650) This fact has also led to a widespread physical depression in the rural areas of India, where an average of seven suicides per farmer happen each day (ibid). The corporations influence over India is massive, which is overall good economically for the countries in control (the United States), but not so much for India. According to Raman (2007), The Coca-Cola marketing system is an example of how the culture of consumerism is rendered essential to individuals perceptions of culture and self-worth (p. 109) Hyams notes that, Coca-Cola, which is the biggest US corporate investor in India, has the countrys law makers in the palm of its hand, (2004). Although the above statement may show some bias against Coca-Cola, it is for the most part true. Even in 2006 when the state of Kerala in India banned the use of Coca-Cola and Pepsi products, there was so much pressure from the government and corporations that the ban only lasted for one month (Aiyer, 2008, p. 640). It should also not be forgotten that while so many people are being starved in the towns where these companies exist, Coca-Cola and Pepsi are making around $2 billion per year in profit in India (Aiyer, 2008, p. 641). Overall, the above points provide truth as to why Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have had more of a negative effect on India overall rather than the positive effect that we are tricked into thinking exists. The academic journal articles referenced above support this thesis by proving that there has been environmental devastation, health problems, and economic issues caused by the Coca-Cola and Pepsi factories in the Kerala state in India. Conclusions: Overall, the issue of multinational corporations exploiting developing countries is nothing new, and countries going through rapid expansion, such as India, want corporations to come so that they can build a strong GDP. Looking specifically at Coca-Cola and Pepsi in India, it is easy to see that there have been many more negative aspects of having these corporations in India than positive aspects, even economically. The environmental degradation and health problems have caused many internal problems within Indian communities, and rather than bringing economic prosperity, it is clear that economic problems have resulted from Coca-Cola and Pepsi setting up factories in these villages. This brings us to the question of whether multinational corporations are really a good thing or not. We use their products everyday in North America, and most people share a common belief that they have helped build economies. Not only that, but we daily hear about the good things that corporations are doing for us and the events that they sponsor, such as the Olympics; but we must question what is happening behind the scenes of all of this. Looking at the issue of Coca-Cola and Pepsi in India is just a small example of the problems that multinational corporations have caused worldwide. Also, we must question if these corporations are really bringing development to a country, or rather causing underdevelopment, as Coca-Cola and Pepsi seem to be doing in the Kerala province. Finally, is neoliberalism the answer? It seems like there have been so many problems that have arisen from it. That being said, Escobar and Estevas underdevelopment theory is becoming increasingly popular as the world begins to realize what multinational corporations and neoliberalism is doing to separate the rich-poor gap between the North and South. Is globalization all that great? By looking Plachimadas case, most would come to the conclusion that it is not. These are the types of questions that can be considered when looking at the issue of Coca-Cola and PepsiCo not only in India, but all around the world. Video Conferencing: Advantages and Disadvantages Video Conferencing: Advantages and Disadvantages The exponential growth in the knowledge based society triggered by the equally strong impact of information technology and its various tools have expanded the human intellectual creativity. Information technology portal has thus enabled both the analysis as well as the development of ideas and concepts between individuals with the access of a simple computer and a telephone connection. The combination of a computer, a telephone and the services of an Internet Service Provider have given birth to a number of users to accomplish targets previously deemed to be impossible. The synergy of both information technology and the people behind the computer have resulted in the accomplishment of goals, in turn providing excellent results for their respective organizations. One such area of this new mode of exchanging information amongst the various information technology portals is video-conferencing, a development which has further reduced costs and time to take decisions, meet people, interac t, learn and teach even from the comfort of their living or board rooms respectively. Certainly one of the most informative modes of telecommuting, video-conferencing has emerged as a strong tool for exchanging information, imparting training, and learning/teaching varied courses in both the business and academic environments. The following paper will strive to present some of the salient aspects and characteristics of video-conferencing, its uses, advantages, disadvantages, as well as analyse it from the perspective of business organizations, with a particular focus on use of video-conferencing as a means of communication for venue providers and event management organizations. Our present day environment is evidence of an era in which time is the essence, and in majority of instances of crucial importance. This is true for both the fiercely competitive business environment as well as the ever fast pace of the knowledge based industries. A brief overview of the developments in the last two decades would reveal that the global economy has shown a somewhat similar set of trends as was witnessed during the era of industrialization some three centuries ago. Thus, one can easily observe the gradual transition from the industrial based economies to the present day knowledge based economy. This can be evidenced in practically every sphere of life, including but not limited to businesses, private and social lives. The onset and spread of information technology and its various modes are largely responsible for this significant transition. Today, access to information is not the domain of a few groups/regions and individuals, neither can it manipulated; instead acces s to information is now possible through a personal computer, a telephone connection, and services of an Internet Service Provider. This has resulted in transforming information into one of the biggest challenges, and into fully developed knowledge based economy. Those with the latest information in their respective disciplines are assumed successful, and this is only possible through the appropriate use of the modern tools of information technology, with video-conferencing as being one such tool. Such is the gravity, and need to acquire knowledge that one has to practically stay a few steps ahead of their nearest competitor, simply to exist in the present day competitive environment. The market dynamics and realities of respective industries practically force individuals and organizations alike to stay abreast and compete in the face of the allied challenges successfully. This is only possible by accepting challenges, however intricate and large they may be, and converting them int o effective source of knowledge. Using technology as a conduit for access to this knowledge not only saves significant resources, but also the factor of time as a crucial aspect is fully exploited and saved. It is this saving of time and resources that have given rise to such tools as video-conferencing, providing an edge to the patterns of doing business and living a successful life. Though marred by a number of drawbacks and disadvantages, video-conferencing has nevertheless emerged as one of the most effective tools of communications in the present day business environment; and it is this mode of modern communication, which will comprise a larger segment of the following paper. According to the information accessed from the web pages of www.whatis.com, videoconference is a means of communication between two groups of people from separate locations. Generally, video-conference involves the use of a audio, video, and ancillary equipment enabling both the groups of people to see, hear and converse with each other from multiple locations. Emerging from the environment of a boardroom, classroom, or a manufacturing site, video-conferencing provides each party to interact with each other as if they were sitting in front of each other in the same room. The single most important advantage of video-conferencing has been the provision of or enhancement of speed for the business processes and operations, just as the use of e-mail and facsimile has speeded up access to information. Some of the major benefits derived from video-conferencing include, but are not limited to cost savings in travel, accommodation, staff time, greater and enhanced communication amongst employ ees at distant locations, and between suppliers and customers. (Video Conferencing UK, 2005) As also briefly outlined in the opening paragraphs, it is the access to information and knowledge that has enabled individuals and organizations to stay abreast of their nearest competitors, an aspect that is true for businesses an academia alike. Simply put, a business organization cannot remain competitive if it does not have access to advance information in its respective industry; similarly a teacher cannot impart education/training to its pupils if he/she remains behind latest set of researches and information about their respective subjects. Acknowledging the fact that the present day era in fact comprises of a networked environment, the importance of video-conferencing takes on truly dynamic dimensions. This is all the more true in the face of global events which can leave a devastating effect on the local and international economy, and upon which no individual, organization or country can command any measure of control. Examples of such global events that have shattered economies, devastated entire countryside’s, and left a trail of human misery and loss of property include the tragic events of September 11, the SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) virus of South East Asia, the devastating tidal waves of Tsunami destroying precious life and property from Island of Maldives in South East Asia to the shores of Dar-es-Salaam in the East African country of Tanzania. It is events such as stated in the preceding lines which makes the importance of communication tool of video-conferencing ever more critical in the present day environment. The need for information technology tools such as video-conferencing is further precipitated in view of the diverse nature of our societies across the globe, which in turn give rise to political, economic, and social risks, the threat of global diseases, terrorism including bio-terrorism either or all of which then pose a significant challenge not only to the productivity and economics of a nation, but to the individuals and organizations across the globe as well. Just as the significant nature of advances in medical research that have triggered a revolution in the treatment and care of variety of diseases, the revolution in information technology has accomplished similar results, providing and collecting crucial data and information from every corner of the globe and atmosphere for the general benefit of global populations. Information technology tools such as video-conferencing have thus made it possible for providing better productivity and enhanced performance in our organization s allowing general populations to take preventive and corrective action in the face of emergencies, crisis situations, or even using it to raise production levels and launching new and better products in the face of severe competitions. Video-conferencing thus aids in the accomplishment of performance excellence, provides for an advance information portal to thwart off threats of disease, spread of virus, the onset of incoming natural calamities including storms, cyclones such as those witnessed in the Tsunami of December of 2004. It is thus essential for practically all businesses, academic institutions, government agencies, and the general populations to develop their respective multi-cultural and technology supported communication systems so that they are better able to address either of the said contingencies, and engage and use information technology tools including video-conferencing to accomplish the same. (Andersen, 2004) Though the above sections have briefly outlined the growing importance of video-conferencing as an important tool of information technology, the following review of articles are a further attempt to provide evidence to this respect. The first article is titled Online In the Outback: The Use of Videoconferencing by Australian Aborigines authored by Mark Hodges and published in Technology Review issue of April 1996. Upon reading the said article by Mark Hodges, it was evident that while the use of video-conferencing still remained a remote idea and its application still under-utilized in countries such as the United States of America and other European countries, the Warlpiri aborigines of Tanami region of Australias Northern Territory have been effectively using this technology since 1993. The exchange of information through the use of video-conferencing given the name of Tanami Network taking its name from the region links some four settlements of Walpiri aborigines, as well as with the major Australian cities of Sydney, Darwin, and Alice Springs. The use of video-conferencing for these aborigines has proved to such a successful venture that the aborigines are able to communicate and gain vital information from a number of government service providers located in the said urban cities; while at the same time video-conferencing has also provided these Walpiri aborigines access to customers and business organizations for Walpiri arts and crafts, established links with other Australian aborigines and with indigenous populations living in countries of the world. Also used for consultations amongst the aborigine leaders to arrive at important decisions for their traditional ceremonies and community related issues, the use of video-conferencing has successfully been expanded for such applications as access to educational programmes including adult and secondary education, teacher training, legal assistance, social security, and access for remote health care. In essence, the Tanami Network, using the video-conferencing tool of information technology has thus provided these Australian aborigines an excellent portal for enhancing their quality of family and community life. Perhaps the single most important advantage gained by the use of video-conferencing technology by the Australian aborigines has been to overcome lack of communication factor within the close circle of family and friends, which even today stands threatened by alarming influence of Australian western culture as well as the geographic isolation of these fragile aborigines across the Australian continent. Thus, video-conferencing has been successfully used in areas of education, ceremonial functions, decision-making, and access to health care, promotion of Aborigine artifacts arts and culture, and access to businesses located in urban areas of Australia, as well as far off places such as London and the United States of America respectively. The link created by video-conferencing with the aborigines living in other parts of the world is yet another major accomplishment of this technology. The use of video-conferencing has thus resulted in the creation of a close network with Saami of Scandinavia, the Inupiat of Alaska, the Inuit of Canada, and the Little Red Cree Nation living in the state of Alberta in Canada. A similar video-conferencing network also in Australia provided aborigine students of New South Wales the opportunity to continue secondary education. Providing a link between 4 schools situated in remote locations, the students use the video-conferencing technology to finish the final 2 years of their education, against the option to either drop out of school, or the more expensive option of joining a boarding school located at a distance ranging from 200 to 400 kilometers. In addition to the crucial opportunity to continue education for the aborigine students, the video-conferencing technology also provides these populations with topics and subjects otherwise not available within the confines of the aborigine community. (Hodges, 1996; Fischer, 1992; Munn, 1973; Young, 1995) The above sections have briefly provided some of the salient features and uses of video-conferencing in present day environment, as well as touched upon the subject of some of the situations where video-conferencing as a tool of information technology can save precious lives and property. The following section comprises of a brief overview of the development of video-conferencing over the last 5 years in particular, and its introduction as an important tool for exchanging information over the last few decades. A brief on the development over the last 3 decades of information technology shows that, indeed video-conferencing emerged as one of the most viable forms of communication as compared to the standard telephone set originally created by Graham Bell. Some of the first impressions of video-conferencing reveal that it comprises of being expensive, does not portray the images as may be required, may not work due to inadequate bandwidths or unavailability of a suitable phone connection, difficulties in establishing the ancillary equipment such as the monitors and the network of cords and wires, or as simple excuses as the way people would actually appear on a monitor screen, and the list simply may go on. Yet, all these and other excuses are now history, as the last 5 years have witnessed a tremendous growth and development of an entirely new set of equipment together with relevant advances in telecommunication technology. This has made the use of video-conferencing mode of communication not only cost effective; but the hardware and software now in use are fairly easy to use with minimum of training required. This has fulfilled the two most important demands of the business circles across the globe; first video-conferencing has brought a significant reduction in travel expenses, and secondly, it has made communication between people scattered across continents fairly simple and within the grasp of general populations/communities. In fact studies carried out by Wainhouse Research noted that since the onset of easy-to-use software, cost effective hardware and access to telephone lines in the last 2 years, there has been a steady growth of approximately 30 percent in annual revenues across the video-conferencing industry. The availability of such equipment as web-camera is yet another evolution which has turned a simple desk-top computer into a digital-media thus changing the traditional video-conferencing technology into a new spectrum, and providing practically everyone with a desk-top, a telephone line, and a good Internet connection with a modern video-conferencing technology. The last 5 years have also witnessed the introduction of Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) -based networks with Internet Protocol (IP) systems, even though the first still dominate majority of the videoconference industry across the globe. Studies carried out by Frost Sullivan on the use of Internet noted that more than 95 percent of the videoconferences used the ISDN networks; the same study also noted that 20 percent of the entire video-conferencing by groups and organizations was done through the Internet Protocol, and more than 92 percent of personal video-conferencing was IP based respectively. A brief comparison between IP based networks for video-conferencing and ISDN networking shows that IP based networking for video-conferencing is economical, provides for an exchange of information and data in a better manner, offers an easy integration option of video-conferencing and desk-top computers, and the facility of a better managed video-conferencing network. The same study also show that by next year, the differences between ISDN based network and IP-based networks for video-conferencing will be practically eliminated. Another major development in the video-conferencing industry is the growing demand for managing video-conferencing by organizations at their own premises and using the same staff. Respective employees in the information technology departments such as storage of data and e-mail management in addition to the responsibilities already handle this. With the new responsibilities of managing video-conferencing over traditional networking functions, this is indeed a major shift in the video-conferencing industry. The new trends of using desktop computers as hubs for video-conferencing are also a source of worry for companies and organizations engaged with or providing specific software and equipment for the video-conferencing industry. Some of the organizations worthy of mentioning involved in products and services for the video-conferencing industry include Avaya, Cisco, Microsoft, and Nortel Networks. With the desktop computer already in use as a hub for video-conferencing, the video-conferencing industry is coming up with ever-new developments and technologies constantly in search of upgrading the quality of both audio and video images to be transmitted over the network. Some of the modern tools introduced include the videophone, a product launched by Motorola/World Gate Communications, which transmits full-motion video images with an excellent audio levels requiring a high speed Internet connection, yet in appearance it is simply a cellular (mobile) phone. The LCD-Integrated Display is yet another modern tool for communication. This is an advanced version and a combination of integrated video-conferencing codecs, cameras, microphones and speakers all installed within the desktop computer. Already introduced by three major manufacturers, namely Polycom, Sony and Tanberg, each of the companies have successfully launched their products featuring the said characteristics for videoconferencing. Sonys model PCS-TL50 perhaps stands out as the most advanced version, as it can perform the double function of desktop computer display, as well as easily switched on to video-conference monitor. Another development is the software based video-conferencing technology. Polycoms desktop model PVX is one such example of this new technology, which only requires a USB web-cam, a desktop computer, and software from either of the vendors in the video-conferencing industry. The significant feature of software-based video-conferencing is that it offers high-resolution pictures and high levels of audio. Polycoms PVX model offers a 30-frames per second picture frame, while the quality of sound is at 14kHz; making it one of best performing information technology tools in video-conferencing. (Regenold, 2005) As also reiterated in the above sections of the paper, the information technology portal of video-conferencing has proved its worth due to its tremendous potential to reach anywhere and at any time. In addition, the physical presence is totally eliminated for imparting training, education, or merely exchanging information with employees of the same organization. An overview of the different situations and sectors where video-conferencing is widely applied includes education and professional training, though it is also used in vital meetings amongst board members of an organization situated in distant locations across the globe. Though professional training and corporate application in business organization is said to be the most important application of video-conferencing, it is the arena of education where its application has proved most beneficial. As also described in the above case studies of Aborigines of Australia receiving feedback and information from distant locations as far as London and the United States of America, or receiving education within the vast territories of the Australian continent, video-conferencing has truly added new dimensions in the discipline of education. One may note that though video-conferencing in the arena of education has been in practice for a number of years, its combination with online form of education has added significant value to the discipline of education. Both these technologies of video-conferencing and Online have thus not only improved the quality of education as visual cues and body language are utilized in video-conferencing, the technological pairing of the two has allowed for the provision of education experts without the need to physically call them. Thus, both the factor of time and place have been made independent, as also bringing a significant reduction in the costs of travel that would otherwise be required to move experts from one location to another. (Reed Woodruff, 1995; Willis, 1996) From the above it would be evident that video-conferencing and Online mode of education when combined truly offers an excellent form of imparting education minus the numerous obstacles that may be required in the absence of both the said technology portals. However, there are numerous studies which provide significant evidence that video-conference even when combined with Online form of education has its own set of limitations, and perhaps these limitations are the reasons for the inability to make video-conferencing a virtual success. One such limitation, and perhaps greatest obstacle is the lack of interaction amongst the participants of a conference-conference. Also termed as talking heads, this format of imparting education and training is observed to loose its viability in the absence of true interaction, or failure to encourage participants to actively participate in the respective education/training program. In this context, one may observe that a face-to-face presentation comprising of no less than 50-minutes is it a tiring experience for the participants, and to bear a lecture through video-conferencing is practically an impossible exercise. As also evident through a number of studies, a one-sided lecture can only remain productive, or majority of participants remain active listeners for a maximum of 20 minutes only. After the passage of approximately 20 minutes into the one-sided lecture, an atmosphere of drowsiness can be witnessed amongst the participants. It is this fact, due to which video-conferencing even with the assistance of Online technology has not really been a favorite form of imparting education or training. There are however two methods or solutions for addressing such dilemmas as the lack of interaction amongst the participants. First is the pedagogical approach, while the second solution is through the effective use of technological aides. In the pedagogical approach for addressing the lack of interaction amongst the participants, there are three basic principals, which can provide avenues for active participation from the participants. First point is breaking the ice. These are creation of an atmosphere which provides for a motivating factor, in turn pushing the participants to actively take part in the ongoing lecture while there are amidst a video-conference; this motivation and the respective atmosphere also allows for overcoming feelings of self-consciousness. This is also called breaking the ice. Secondly, the shorter a lecture and more focused it is, the better outcome in the shape of interaction by the participants, as well as easy transfer of knowledge/training text is observed. One way to accomplish this, and make presentations short is to provide a break after every 20 minutes, and engage the participants in some form of activity. Third point, and perhaps the most important is the officering participants to get involved in the interaction, and not to leave upon them to decide whether or not to participate. This factor is also important, as it allows for both breaking the ice, as well as breaking the same lecture or training session into a number of segments, each supported by a separate form of activity from the participants. Involving participants and engaging them for active interaction can be accomplished by involving them in debates between number of experts of the same discipline, through the adoption of role models or role-playing, putting controversial questions to the participants so that they are able to offer a variety of answers to the same question, instead of asking a question which only has one answer. This third point of involving the participants also implies that interaction amongst the participants has to pre-planned prior to the actual video-conference session, and cannot be simply pursued d uring the respective session or educational text. Though this form of inviting and engaging the participants is truly effective in delivering a truly successful lecture or training program whether professional or educational, its single largest drawback lies in the fact that this can only practiced and implemented in a live presentation or videoconference. Addressing the dilemma or failure to actively participate in a videoconference from a technological perspective can be accomplished through the application of recorded messages, or training programmes. In this manner, the participants can gain access to the respective educational/ training material at the their own disposal, normally through the use of Internet. (Shearer, 2003; Kunz, 2000) It allows for the utilization of existing and proven technologies. There is significantly little training required. Video-conferencing can be used in a number of settings, environments, and configurations. It is one of the most practical tools for creating a direct liaison with both audio as well as visual linkages amongst the participants. The operating costs are comparatively less, and this too depends on the distance and number of sites. Taking the case of an interview of a potential candidate by a committee of officials within an organization (such as interviewing a candidate to fulfill a faculty position in an academic institution) shows that advantages of video-conferencing far outweigh the disadvantages. First of all, convenience of the applicant is at the forefront followed by significant reduction in travel costs, time otherwise needed for the primary responsibilities. Then there is the additional advantage of videotaping the entire proceedings of the interview, for later screening, as well as for those concerned officials who may not be available for the interview. One of the profound and proven advantages of video-conferencing has been observed in the teaching/learning environment of academic institutions. With exponential growth in the learning/teaching environment, in particular through the use of Online forms of education, videoconference has provided new dimensions to the teaching and learning situations. Though there emerges the need for specific equipment and personnel for video-conferencing, the basic requirement of an Internet Service Provider, a laptop or computer and a web-camera are all that is required for video-conferencing to take place. Video-conferencing has also found tremendous advantages amongst teachers and pupils for a one-to-one teaching format, and communication with small groups of students located in distance locations. This is particularly true since the onset of Internet as a means of direct communication. The same application has also found tremendous advantages for business communications for both long distance meetings, and one-to-one contact with employees located in distance branches of the respective organization. Though relatively less in usage, the use of ISDN conferencing is an advanced version of video-conferencing, which provides for significantly better quality of both audio and video. The principle usage of the ISDN form of conference-conference is in the learning/ teaching environment where there exists the need to ask the expert. It is this advantage of calling upon external experts in far off locations that this ISDN video-conferencing is best applied. Another advantage of this form of video-conferencing is the facility to support entire group of professionals or students and involve them in the teaching/learning environment through direct interaction. One of the disadvantages of video-conferencing is observed in the initial establishment costs, which can be high as compared to traditional modes of meetings. Video-conferencing is still considered an evolving technology, hence standardization and its usage is yet to be fully developed. One of the major restraining factors and a disadvantage of video-conferencing is the inadequate infrastructure of local telephone networks, which is one of the prime requisites. Expansion of video-conferencing facilities and locations require substantial financing, hence its utility remains limited. The operational costs of videoconference also serve as an impediment. Taking the same example of an interview of a candidate by a team of officials of an organization, there also exist disadvantages of video-conferencing; these can include potential technical difficulties such as problems with the software, hardware, and/or failure of the network. Though these problems could well be tested prior to the actual event, such as the interview, there is always the possibility of an unexpected technical problem to emerge either before or even during the actual video-conferencing activity. A major impediment in video-conferencing is the lack of personal interaction, a factor that is often regarded as an important feature of any meeting, interview or feedback. A prime example of lack of personal interaction can be observed in the ever-important handshake that is considered an important aspect in the conclusion of a business meeting, or the successful completion of an interview. Then there is the aspect of eye contact, which too remains absent during a videoconference; as eye-contact serves as an important feature for physical assessment of an individual (such as an applicant during an interview), and situations during a videoconference. Another disadvantage observed during a videoconference is the absence of trained and support personnel, in turn creating a host of problems for participants who may be unfamiliar with the video-conferencing equipment/environment, with the result that the same videoconference would make matters worse instead of providing facility for the participants. The disadvantages observed in the ISDN form of video-conferencing are the relative high costs incurred in the installation, rental and call charges. In addition the specific equipment for video-conferencing required for supporting ISDN too is costly. Then there is the difficult pattern of understanding data collaboration in ISDN, which is difficult to use, making it a disadvantage for video-conferencing. Conclusion The above paper strives to present the topic of video-conferencing in a number of perspectives, and provides evidence in respect of the popularity one of the most advanced forms of communication prevalent today in various industries. Whether it is the arena of academia, business organizations, professional trainers, to government offices, the information technology portal of video-conferencing h