Factors affecting employees performance

Introduction The depths of individual human beings as well as their devotion to deliver tremendous output in the operation of an organisation contribute immensely in the competitive ability of the firm. In fact, the performance levels of an organisation’s personnel play significant roles in increasing competitive advantage of the firm. Several factors affect employees’ job performance. For instance, motivations, rewards, compensation systems among other factors are considered as influencers on employee performance (Armstrong and Baron 13).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Factors affecting employees’ performance specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Besides, the tasks carried out by individuals and the way, in which the work is done, describe the employees’ outputs as well as the general organisation’s performance. As such, organisations apply a number of grounds in the evalu ation of employee performance management. In essence, trait-based, behaviour-based and outcome-based performance procedures are critical output measures of employees within an organisation. The discussion will focus on three major factors affecting the performance of workforce within an organisation. Motivation Firms often apply different concepts and models to explain how motivation increases the employees’ performance. In fact, employees are highly motivated when their interests are taken into consideration. In essence, the driving force behind any employee’s performance is enthusiasm. Therefore, any organisation must adopt practices that inspire personnel to increase their productivity. As indicated, various models of motivation are often utilised by organisations to implement employees’ management procedures that encourage work performances (Beck 76). In most cases, organisations utilise suppositions including the theories of scientific management, human rel ations, human needs and goal setting to put in place appropriate practices that increase motivation and influence employees’ performance. The organisation can use the combination of these theories to establish performance management practices that would end up motivating the workforce. The models of motivation and performance management practices The scientific management hypothesis asserts that employees are inspired exclusively by the remuneration they get from the labour they offer. In fact, proper remunerations are the greatest motivators in any work environment. Essentially, the employees of the corporation are highly motivated by proper remuneration and huge perks offered by the organisation (Beck 76). Moreover, the management holds the belief that employees must be well treated in order to increase productivity. In addition, the theory argues that the employees do not obviously like work. Therefore, they will always equate compensation and the amount of work done. In t he circumstances that the perceived compensation equals or exceeds the quantity of work, the employees will be highly motivated.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Similarly, human relations concept stresses on the importance of society’s requirements to employees’ motivation. In other words, the theory argues that the personnel are not only inspired by the remunerations but also by social needs during the execution of responsibilities. The concept concentrates on the bosses’ role of recognising employees as people with valuable views as well as their pleasure in relations with one another (Beck 78). In addition, managers are supposed to put more consideration on employees’ social needs. In reality, employees should be given opportunity to provide suggestions on how they can achieve the objectives of the assigned tasks. The allusion that emp loyees are allowed to set own goals and targets as well as the organisation’s responsibility helps workers achieve own set of goals. Further, in a firm, the management teams are supposed to inspire and empower the employees towards the attainment of the set objectives. The theory of human needs centres on the workers’ emotional desires. As a result, there are five levels of needs required by the employees in order to fulfil their wants. The idea proposed a hierarchy of needs varying from essential and physiological needs such as hunger, to the elevated ranked ones including self–esteem as well as self-actualisation. In fact, the recognition of such needs by employers leads to improved outcomes (Shields 181). The acceptance by employees that the organisation takes care of their essential needs indicates the application of the model in workers management and development. The benefits offered by the organisation provide essential as well as other needs of the emplo yees. Most importantly, working in the organisation provides employees with the self-actualisation. In fact, self-actualisation is attained in various ways within the organisation including the ability to set personal goals and ways, through which they can be achieved (Shields 182). The organisation must establish a set of programs that value workers together with their efforts. Goal-setting model also motivates the employees. The model argues that the attainment of the objectives of assigned tasks depends largely on the task performance. According to the model, employees will always pursue challenging and specific tasks with clear feedback. In essence, the set goals define individual employees’ efforts required to perform the given task. The model works well in an environment where employees set their own goals and work out ways, through which such objectives can be attained. Allowing employees to perform own job evaluation also indicates the application of the model. Furthe r, the employees are left to suggest the best ways, through which they can achieve their own objectives (Shields 182). Through the practice, employees are encouraged to perform as leaders and in effect motivate themselves towards attaining the goals of both individual and the organisation.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Factors affecting employees’ performance specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Motivational practices that influence work performance Drawing from the suppositions, appropriate practices that increase motivation and influence employees’ performance are developed. In fact, the organisation has to put in place appropriate compensation and reward system that motivate employees towards attaining the desired outcome. Employees will be highly motivated and increase their performance when the compensation practice applied by the organisation is perceived to be fair (Beck 82). In other words, employees will be motivated when the perceived compensation equals or exceeds the quantity of work. Essentially, compensation is one of the practices that organisation should adopt to attain increased employees’ performance. Most importantly, organisations have to consider the employees contribution on the attainment of the organisation’s goals. As indicated in the human relations theory, employees should be given opportunity to provide suggestions on how they can achieve the objectives of the assigned tasks. Moreover, the organisation’s practice that recognises the emotional and basic needs of workforce leads to improved employees’ outcomes. Besides, organisation management should set clear goals that are attainable in order to motivate employees. Employees will always be motivated when they pursue challenging and specific tasks with clear feedback (Beck 82). The management structure and leadership styles of the organisation Management structures The relationship between the leadership style of the organisation and employees’ performance is direct. In addition, the management structure directly affects employees’ job commitments that have greater influence on the performances. Essentially, management structure and leadership style of an organisation have a greater influence on the performance of employees (Armstrong and Baron 21). Moreover, the management structure and leadership style the organisation adopts have significant influence on the general performance of the organisation. Currently, organisations tend to implement management structures and the leadership styles that tend to motivate workers thereby increasing their output. In other words, several management practices are currently being adopted by the organisations to motivate their employees, which in turn contribute to increased performance. The first motivating management practice is the adoption of cross-functional management structure. Most imp ortantly, the cross-functional management structure encourages the astral managerial leadership and innovativeness among the organisation’s employees (Shields 202). The management structure often determines the type of leadership style that have direct impact on the employees’ behaviour and the general output of the organisation.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In most cases, the management and the organisation structures determine the culture of the organisation. As such, organisations tend to pursue cultural and moral principles as well as practices that motivate and increase the employees’ output. In fact, organisations should entrench moral principles that emphasise employees’ motivation as well as enhancing the general output of the firm. Employees’ management practices such as encouraging individual accountability have been found to encourage employees to effectively perform the assigned tasks resulting in increased outcome (Shields 202). However, such practices have to be adopted within the moral principles determined by the management structure and the leadership style. Studies on the relationship between employees’ performance and responsibility indicate that personal accountability combined with freedom to operate explains individual innovativeness that encourages employees to do extra work not only fo r the organisation but also for personal goals. The practice of encouraging individual responsibility among employees is highly applicable within the cross-functional management structure. Generally, organisations should adopt management models and leadership styles that aim to increase the output of employees, which in turn augments the general output of the organisation. In fact, models of management that focus on the improvement of employees’ output as well as individual development increase the competitive advantage to the organisation (Armstrong and Baron 23). Most modern organisations have adopted the cross-functional management due to its effect on employees’ improvement and the accompanied astral leadership style. Astral leadership style allows cross-functional management practices that encourage work processes and motivate employees. Moreover, the cross-functional models are aided by the open communication system that limits the organisational structure spectr um. Essentially, the corporate organisation management model offers a sense of responsibility to the workers and the result is the greater contribution to the organisation’s objectives. In other words, the management model should result in increased employees’ performance. The cross-functional model fulfils such requirements (Shields 211). As such, the cross-functional model becomes one of the management structures that encourage employees’ performance resulting in increased productivity of the organisation. Moreover, cross-functional model increases the leadership and management competencies resulting in additional competitive advantaged to the organisation. Leadership style As indicated, leadership style plays a critical role in the motivation of employees. The management and leadership style should remove obstacles that alienate employees from work processes. In other words, the leadership style should encourage employees towards attaining the desired outcome (Kirchmer 341). In most cases, organisations considered as high achievers adopt leadership styles that create positive changes and inspire employees towards attaining the goals of the organisation. For instance, transformational type of managing employees is one such style of leadership. Transformational leadership is characterised by its inspirational nature and positive changes it creates in an organisation. In order to achieve increased performance among employees, organisations often adopt leadership styles that take into consideration the concerns of employees. In addition, the leadership styles should be focused on encouraging workforce to attain the goals of the organisation. In fact, the leadership style should be geared towards creating positive change among employees. Studies indicate that performance attributes of employees increase when their concerns are greatly considered by the organisation’s management (Shields 212). Moreover, to remain competitive, organisat ions require leadership style where members of the team are encouraged to attain the desired results on the assigned tasks. Further, to become extremely motivated, leaders have to impart the vision of the group and take into consideration the members’ contribution in the attainment of the results (Armstrong and Baron 31). Besides, leaders should have greater vision as well as inspirational characteristics, which are applied to motivate and change the expectations as well as perceptions of employees to work towards the desired goals and outcomes. Essentially, there is need to raise optimism among employees to attain the required output. Moreover, the management needs to inspire employees towards attaining the desired outcome of the organisation. In addition, organisations need visionary leaders to inspire and motivate employees towards attaining the desired outcome. Such characteristics are majorly found in the transformational type of leadership styles. As indicated, leadersh ip styles play a critical role in enhancing employees’ performance. Generally, the organisation management structure and leadership styles are factors that significantly affect the performance of employees. The reason is that the two variables are directly related to the employees’ behaviours, which further affect the outcome of the organisation. Compensation Compensation and reward system of an organisation remains to be one of the important factors that contribute to the improved work performances among employees. Among the factors that influence employee’s performances, compensation directly affects the performances of employees and remains critical in the attainment of the organisation’s goals. Therefore, when an organisation is deciding on the best compensation strategy, factors such as employees’ needs and feelings have to be considered (Kirchmer 337). In other words, employees have diverse needs that organisations have to put into considerat ion while determining effective rewards. Essentially, employees will consider compensation as effective when the types of rewards meet their primary objectives. Often, the central argument is that a fair rewards system satisfies the needs of employees, motivates and improves performances. Therefore, compensation and employees’ work performance are directly related. Moreover, the most excellent compensation practices take into account internal business processes as well as environmental competitiveness. Internal balance in the compensation practices and design implies the organisation’s activities and practices that ensure the attainment of goals. Besides, the internal business processes include employees’ performance management practices that form the core basis of compensation (Kirchmer 345). On the other hand, external competitiveness encompasses compensation practices in relation to industrial standards or regulatory framework. In most cases, compensation pra ctices follow the regulatory frameworks set by the industry or legal authority. However, the organisation must ensure that its compensation practices are geared towards enhancing employee’s motivation and attaining set goals in order to gain competitive advantage (Kirchmer 341). In other words, compensation practices must be aligned with the employee’s general productivity as well as motivation. As such, the primary goal of compensation practices of an organisation is to motivate employees and improve their performances. On the part of employees, increased compensation and benefits ensure augmented productivity due to the satisfaction they receive from such benefits. Well-compensated employees feel protected from social ills that may affect the work processes, which in turn may result in decreased performance (Armstrong and Baron 231). In other words, compensation and benefits that take into consideration the needs of workers are critical in increased performance and t he general output of the employees. The general assertion is that there is direct correlation between appropriate compensation and increased productivity among employees. Essentially, compensation has a direct impact on the employees’ performances. Compensation and employees’ output One of the major effects of compensation is that employees are motivated to attain the greater output. Good remunerations increase the worker’s motivation and job commitment that are translated into high performances (Ismail 923). The forms of compensation also enhance the performance culture among the employees. However, these forms of compensation can hardly be determined without appropriate measurement procedures on job performance and output. Besides, increased efficiency cannot be divorced from employees’ high performance and attainment of the organisation goals. Appropriate compensation raises performance among workers. In fact, increased performances result from augment ed motivation workers gain from appropriate compensation (Armstrong and Baron 231). The increased impetus adds to efficacy and competencies needed to improved performance. The effect is greater productivity and the attainment of the overall goals of the organisation. Essentially, the major effect of appropriate compensation design system is the increased performance, productivity within the workforce and the general attainment of the organisation’s goals. Compensation and employees’ performance management Compensation also influences the general employees’ performance management procedures. The employees’ efficiency and effectiveness can be enhanced through appropriate compensation. In this case, appropriate compensation implies that the it should be based on the market rate. In other words, suitable compensation that has effect on the workers’ attitude and motivation should be above the market rate. Effective compensation indicates the manner in w hich the organisation values its workers as well as their needs (Ismail 929). In addition, effective compensation increases productivity as well as the general performance of the organisation. In general, compensation system and design communicate the values and beliefs of the organisation regarding the performance. Performance-based compensation and improved workers’ output The performance-related pay covers various forms of employees’ compensations that take into consideration the output of individual workers. In other words, workers are compensated according to the individual performance. The performance-based pay is applied in the circumstances where workers can easily show a discrepancy in their productivity depending on the individual endeavour. In such situations, performance-based pay is believed to have greater chance of increasing workers performance (Ismail 923). One of the major advantages with all these forms of payments is that the employees are motivated to attain the greater output. Moreover, the forms of compensation also enhance the performance culture among the employees within the organisation. Conclusion Many factors affect job performances among employees within the organisation. However, motivation, compensation and the organisation management structure as well as leadership style remain critical factors that influence the work performances. The relationship between motivation and work performance is direct. The likelihood of attaining increased performance on motivated employees is very high. In other words, there is high likelihood of attaining increased performance on highly motivated employees. On the other hand, compensation increases job commitment and satisfaction, which are critical in determining the performance of employees. Moreover, management structure, practices and leadership styles culminate all the organisation’s work processes that motivate, increase satisfaction and job commitment leading to increa sed performance. Works Cited Armstrong, Michael and Angela Baron. Managing performance: performance management in action, UK: CIPD, 2005. Print. Beck, Robert C. Motivation: Theories and Principles. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, 2000. Print. Ismail, Azman. â€Å"Relationship between Performances based pay features and job satisfaction: Does interactional justice act as a mediating role?† Academy of Management Journal, 35.5 (2007): 921-955. Print. Kirchmer, Mathias. High performance through process excellence: turning strategy into operations – smart and fast. Berlin: springer-Verlag, 2009. Print. Shields, John. Managing employees performance and reward – concepts, practices and strategies. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2012. Print. This research paper on Factors affecting employees’ performance was written and submitted by user Alicia R. 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.

Signs, Symbols and Portents Essay Example

Signs, Symbols and Portents Essay Example Signs, Symbols and Portents Essay Signs, Symbols and Portents Essay Essay Topic: Literature Signs and symbols can be seen in all kinds of literature. Simply put, they are a concrete representation of an abstract concept. What they represent is not always obvious: they can have one or several meanings, and their meaning can change throughout the story. Sometimes, they are used by the author to foreshadow an event. Interpreting signs and symbols can be a challenge for a reader, but it is a rewarding one: it makes for a more profound and interesting reading. In this essay, I will discuss the role of signs and symbols in the work of Nathaniel Hawthorne and Herman Melville. Nathaniel Hawthornes The Scarlet Letter was first published in 1850. It is set in Boston, in the 17th century. It is the story of a woman, Hester Prynne, who has been punished by society because of her adultery. She has been forced to wear a scarlet A on her chest as a reminder of the sin she has committed. This scarlet letter, a written sign, is the novels main subject: it is also its main symbol. Charles Feidelson writes: The symbolistic method is inherent in the subject, just as the subject of symbolism is inherent in the method (Feidelson 1953: 13). Hawthorne also uses the main characters as symbols, pointing out the ways in which the scarlet letter affects them. Hester Prynne is condemned to wear the scarlet letter for the rest of her life because she has given birth to a child, Pearl, who is not her husbands. The fact that she has been punished in such a way tells us much about Puritan society: people were generally very pious and prude, and adultery was considered to be a great sin (Durst Johnson 1995). Hester could easily have fled from Boston and thrown away her scarlet letter, but she chooses to stay put and serve her punishment. The red A represents her sin, but it also symbolises the features of human nature that are not socially acceptable in Puritan America, such as passion (Feidelson 1953, Durst Johnson 1995). By continuing to wear it, even when she is told that she is allowed to take it off, she is making a statement. She is showing that she does not intend to change, and that she believes that the society around her should change, instead. She makes no excuses for her behaviour and devotes herself to humanitarian work. Eventually, people see her under a different light: the red A that they used to associate with something devilish acquires a much more positive meaning. Hester is now seen as an Angel, or as Able. Soon after her condemnation, Hester embroiders the scarlet letter with golden thread. Doing so could mean two things: either she is mocking her punishment, or she could be trying to embellish the truth. She does not want to accept her passionate nature. This is very Puritanistic of her: the 19th century was the Age of the Euphemism (Durst Johnson 1995: ix) in America. People did not die, they passed away; a man was not drunk, he was unwell. Though Hester appears to accept her punishment, it can sometimes becomes a hard cross to bear. Hester herself is a symbol: she represents human nature. She is passionate, not infallible, and acknowledges it. At the same time, the way she has been raised has shaped her personality. It sometimes keeps her from fully embracing the aspects of her character that society finds objectionable. Nevertheless, her punishment has made her stronger, and more understanding of humanity. Her charitable work is a proof of this. Hester is a survivor. Dimmesdale, Pearls father, is a young minister in the community. The red A on Hesters chest could stand for Arthur, his first name. He also has a scarlet letter on his heart, a psychosomatic mark (Feidelson 1953: 11), but refuses to acknowledge it. He is a pious man who believes that there should be no room in his life for passion, but his scarlet letter is a permanent reminder that he cannot escape this trait of his personality. The letter tortures him, and he constantly seeks to punish himself. His health deteriorates throughout the novel. He refuses to acknowledge Pearl as his daughter until the very end, and when he does, he proclaims himself to be the one sinner of the world (Hawthorne 2002). He dies minutes after having shown his scarlet letter to the world. Dimmesdale is a symbol of Puritan society and its unwillingness to accept all aspects of human nature. Pearl, Hester and Dimmesdales daughter, has a symbolic role until the very end of the novel. She is an uncontrollable and mischievous child, and she is described as an demon offspring by the narrator. Comparisons between Pearl and the scarlet letter are numerous and obvious. Feidelson writes: Pearl, as Hawthorne reiterates at tiresome length, is the scarlet letter both physically and mentally (1953: 11). Pearl is obsessed with her mothers scarlet letter. In Chapter XV, she makes a green A out of eelgrass and puts it on her own chest. To Pearl, the letter is natural, and does not represent anything evil. She seeks the truth about it, and is constantly asking her mother questions, something that makes Hester uncomfortable. She is also the hardest truth-sayer in the novel (Durst Johnson 1995: 6), and knows the truth about Dimmesdale instinctively. Until he confesses to being her father, she calls him Mr. Black and refuses to kiss him. Throughout the novel, there is an intense connection between Pearl and truth. This indicates that the scarlet letter, which is symbolised by Pearl, represents the whole truth about human nature. Hawthorne writes: Be true! Be true! Be true! Show freely to the world, if not your worst, yet some trait whereby the worst may be inferred! (Hawthorne 2002: 269). By using the scarlet letter and his characters as symbols, Hawthorne is urging people to acknowledge every aspect of their own humanity (Durst Johnson 1995). Moby-Dick was published in 1851. Its author, Herman Melville, dedicated the novel to Nathaniel Hawthorne, who he admired greatly. In his tale of a whaling expedition gone wrong, Melville makes extensive use of signs and symbols. Ishmael, a member of the ships crew and the storys narrator, is a visionary (Feidelson 1953). He transforms the physical world into a symbolic world for the reader. The symbols used in Moby-Dick are most often more complex and ambiguous than the ones used in The Scarlet Letter. One of the major symbols in Moby-Dick is the whaling ship, the Pequod. It has been painted black, and is decorated with bones and teeth that have dissected out of dead whales. In addition to this, it has been named after an extinct Native American tribe. Though Ishmael seems to be very satisfied with the Pequod, the way he describes it makes it sound spooky. The Pequods appearance symbolises death, and its name makes the reader realise that the ship is doomed to sink. Ishmael says of the ship that it is a cannibal of a craft (Melville 1998: 61): much of the components of the ship are taken from whale parts, and it is a ship whose main purpose is killing whales. He is pointing out how men use nature for their own ends, and have no moral qualms about using a whale to kill another whale. The crew of the Pequod is made up of a variety of people from all over the world. Ishmael notes that most of the crew is made up of men who were born outside of America, but that the officer positions are generally occupied by Americans. He says: the native American liberally provides the brain, the rest of the world generously supplying the muscles (Melville 1998: 106). Melville could be commenting on social class differences between Whites and Blacks in the United States, or even on slavery. Though Ishmael seems to believe that the rest of the world is generously providing the muscles, it is probably fair to speculate that many of them would rather be given the chance to use their brains. Moby-Dick was published just ten years before the American Civil War broke out, and racial issues were extremely relevant. In spite of all this, the members of the crew seem to be getting along, and work well as a team. This could represent the American melting pot: people from every corner of the world having come to build a country and pulling together to make it happen. Melville had great hopes for American democracy, and this is one of the reasons why he wrote Moby-Dick (Selby 1998). Ahab, the ships captain, embodies an extreme version of a classic American type: the monomaniac, who has only one interest and devotes all his energy to it (Brodhead 1986). He dedicates his ship and his whole crew to his own personal mission: killing the great white whale, Moby Dick. He does not care whether lives are lost in the process, and he rules his ship like a tyrannical dictator would. D. H. Lawrence said of the sinking of the Pequod that it was the sinking of the white American soul (Selby 1998). By making Ahabs plan fail, Melville is showing the public what can happen when a monomaniac type such as Ahab goes too far. Moby Dick is central in Melvilles novel. It is a white whale of an extraordinary size: it is the most solid of physical things and the most meaningful of symbols (Feidelson 1953: 184). Moby Dick means something different to every character in the novel. To Starbuck, the first mate, it is just another whale, though a very dangerous one. He is irritated at the vendetta Ahab has against it, and wishes that the crew could work on its true mission, which is to hunt whales for their oil. Ishmael is fascinated by the whale, and terrified by its whiteness, as white is the visible absence of color, and at the same time the concrete of all colors (Melville 1998: 175). Ishmael does not know whether the whale is just a meaningless big fish colorless or a mystical being full of complex meanings, at once good and evil. To the rest of the crew, tales about the white whale are a diversion from their dangerous jobs, and a way to confront their own fears. Finally, to Ahab, it is the ultimate symbol of evil in this world. Moby Dick is the reason why he has lost a leg, and he is determined to seek revenge. D. H. Lawrence has suggested that the white whale could be some kind of a phallic symbol (Selby 1998). The whale has such strength and power that Ahabs desire to kill the whale could be a quest for acquiring absolute potency (Brodhead 1986). Ahab never succeeds in killing Moby Dick: instead, it is Moby Dick that sinks the ship. It is the revenge of nature over men, who keep trying to destroy it. After discussing the role of symbols and signs in The Scarlet Letter and Moby-Dick, I must agree with Nick Selby, who writes that symbolism, and the loose romanticism upon which it depends, is the key expressive tool of the American Renaissance' (1998: 55). There is more symbolism in these two literary works than in any other works I have studied this year. The symbols are rich in meaning and are given great importance. Spending time to interpret them is essential to a proper understanding of the text.

Strategic analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Strategic analysis - Essay Example Sony has used the following 5 successful methods in managing its strategies. 1. Customer satisfaction Planning also entails knowledge of customer’s lifestyle. Lifestyle is important when designing the type of products to sell to consumers in different regions. Sony uses different measures in ensuring all customers receive quality products and services through Voice of Customer (VOC), Customer Satisfaction (CSAT), and Net Promoter Score (NPS) methods. The processes range from communicating to the prospective markets about the services offered and getting the target customer interested, approaching them and presenting on what the business offers, answering questions and handling customer objections, making sales and providing after sale service. Organizations need to understand the importance of measuring customer satisfaction for ever activity in by considering both the internal and external customers. The customer satisfaction strategy has enabled Sony become one of the most e lectronic competitive company globally by winning a lot of consumers. 2. Analyzing the competitors Sony Corporation faces stiff competition from other major companies in the same industry. The company management has introduced new approaches of analyzing their competitors through implementing various strategies like competitive strategy, and innovation strategy. By learning from their competitors, Sony Corporation has introduced new ideas that aid in market entry and more customer attraction. 3. Creativity The marketing design is highly essential in an organization since it is the fundamental to successful implementation of strategies and achievement of objectives. Multinational business analysis, on the other hand, outlines the potentiality of the business to gain from the market participation. The analysis incorporates strategic levers such as marketing, location and product, and organization analysis such as culture, people, management and structure. Sony becomes creativity by in troducing new products in the market that competitors have never thought of introducing. For instance, Sony Corporation introduced the first plasma TV into the market, Bravia that attracted the attention of many customers (Shin, 2003). 4. Keeping detailed records Sony finance and accounting departments ensure that the company maintains all the crucial information regarding every transaction taking place. A successful business must keep all its records in a secure place for future references. Maintenance of company records gives an organization time to create business strategies that assist in overcoming obstacles that hinder the success of an organization (Constanzo & MacKay, 2008). Record keeping occurs through updated financial statements and accounting details. 5. Consistency Sony Corporation ensures consistence in all its operations. All businesses need to know their target targets behavior and buying attitudes and needs while formulating their analysis strategies. Organizationa l strategy analysis assists in determining what exactly the customers expect to get when they purchase goods or services. It is easier to satisfy and delight customers when their true and perceived needs are known than when they are unknown. In achieving the above, good, competitive, innovation and value chain strategies developed aim at achieving the set goals and missions. A big organization like Sony should implement

Compare three recent fictional movies (from the 1990s or 2000s) about Essay

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Ugi reaction Thesis Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Ugi reaction - Thesis Example Ugi Reaction The Ugi reaction subject has gained unprecedented prominent in recent chemical literature. An explosion of interest toward the Ugi reaction is explained by the rapid development of chemical technologies and the need to solve organic chemistry challenges in a cost-efficient manner. The history of the Ugi reaction dates back to the middle of the 20th century, but it was not before the beginning of the 21st century that its value and benefits for the evolution of organic chemistry were consistently recognized. Ivar Ugi is believed to be the father of all multicomponent reactions [28]. Ugi is also considered the grandfather of the whole combinatorial chemistry [29]. Today’s chemists rely on the advantages of the Ugi reaction, to synthesize diverse collections/ libraries of biologically interesting products. This is particularly the case of the drug industry, which relies on the premise of discovery and innovations and demands fast methods of chemical analysis and synt hesis of complex molecules. The Ugi reaction is a popular object of contemporary chemical research. Dozens of studies were performed to understand the hidden benefits of the Ugi reaction and its implications for chemistry. â€Å"The Ugi reaction is the one-pot condensation of an amine, aldehyde or ketone, isocyanide, and a nucleophile to afford ?-substitute carboxamide derivatives† [17]. ... The carboxylic acid is then added together with the imino carbon; acyl transfer rearranges the resulting acylated isoamide, leading to the creation of the desired product [17]. The benefits of the Ugi reaction are numerous. The Ugi reaction is believed to be the most convenient instrument for generating diverse libraries of chemical compounds [8; 9]. That the reaction occurs at room temperature also means that the reaction is relatively simply and cost-effective: it does not require using artificial additions and can be easily held without complex temperature-regulating mechanisms [9]. The Ugi reaction is extremely advantageous for generating pharmacologically active compounds and diverse molecules [9]. For example, it was extensively used to synthesize anti-malarial agents [9]. Most, if not all, Ugi reaction products tend to precipitate in pure form [9; 15; 21]. This is extremely important for the success of other chemical processes, as long as compound mixtures obtained during the Ugi reaction do not require costly purification prior to being used in other chemical procedures [6; 27]. For example, the Ugi reaction does not require the use of costly chromatography and, consequentially, reduces the costs of the process and the final product. Eventually, almost all compounds obtained during the Ugi reaction are quantifiable [6; 38]. No information about potential drawbacks of the Ugi reaction has been available so far. The current state of literature provides extensive information about the Ugi reaction and its practical applications. This is mostly because the Ugi reaction is gradually turning into the key element of chemical research and analysis, especially in the pharmaceutical industry. More and more chemical compounds are

Human Development Theory And Social Work Issues Social Work Essay

Human Development Theory And Social Work Issues Social Work Essay This study deals with the utility of human development theory in understanding practical social work issues. It takes up the case of the Murray family (provided in the appendix to this essay) and using the family as a base, attempts to apply different aspects of human development theory in a practical real life scenario. The study is divided into five specific sections. The first section briefly describes the circumstances of the Murray family. This is followed by the application of two theories of human development, (a) Erik Eriksons psychosocial development theory and Bronfenbrenners Ecological Model of Human Development, to understand child and adult development, (b) the ways in which political and social processes influence human development, (c) the role of inequalities in human development, and (d) the ways in which theories of human development underpin social work knowledge and values. The Murray family scenario is elaborated in detail in the appendix to this study and is thus being taken up briefly here. Jack (43) and Evelyn (36) Murray stay with their daughter Lora (6) and Evelyns mother Doris (71). Jack has two other sons, Seb (17) and David (15), who live separately. Jack Murray was an adopted child. He was brought up by parents who were open about his adopted status and has never shown any inclination to trace his biological parents. Jack has alcohol related problems and is prone towards domestic violence. Evelyn has been hurt and that too badly, in the recent past. Lora is doing well in school and is cared for by Doris, who is however becoming frail. She had to be placed in an emergency foster care environment during her summer holidays, even as her mother made use of a womens shelter to escape the difficulties of her home. Doris worries about being separated from her granddaughter and family if she were to go to a care home. All family members have expressed their willingness to work with a social worker. Application of Theories of Human Development Erik Eriksons theory of human development was first advanced in 1950 and has been significantly augmented in later years (Brenman-Gibson, 1997, p 329). Eriksons psychosocial theory states that life can be segregated into 8 stages from birth to death, which comprise of (a) infancy (birth to 18 months), (b) early childhood (18 months to 3 years), (c) play age (3 to 5 years), (d) school age (5 to 12 years), (e) adolescence (12 to 18 years), (f) young adulthood (18 to 35 years), (g) middle adulthood (35 to 55 or 65 years) and (h) late adulthood (55 or 65 to death) (Brenman-Gibson, 1997, p 329). Each of Eriksons 8 stages involves a crisis that is characterised by two opposing emotional forces. Infancy, for instance, involves trust v mistrust and is characterised by the care of the mother for a child with an emphasis on touch and visual contact (Christiansen Palkovitz, 1998, p 133). Successful transition through this period results in individuals learning to trust in life and to have confidence in the future, even as problems during this period can lead to feelings of worthlessness and mistrust (Christiansen Palkovitz, 1998, p 133). The school age of 6 to 12 years is similarly characterised by the opposing forces of industry and inferiority (Brenman-Gibson, 1997, p 331). Individuals are capable of learning, building and achieving numerous skills and knowledge during this period, thereby developing feelings of industry. This stage of development can also lead to the experiencing of feelings of inferiority and inadequacy with peers and result in problems of self esteem and competence (Brenman-Gibson, 1997, p 331). Eriksons philosophy rests on two important themes, namely (a) that the world enlarges as people go along, and (b) that failure is cumulative (Douvan, 1997, p 16). The first theme is indisputable. Whilst the second is debatable, it is true that children who have to perforce deal with difficult circumstances find it challenging to negotiate later stages in their lives in comparison with others (Douvan, 1997, p 16). Various studies have revealed that children who were not stroked as infants find it difficult to connect with others in their adulthood. Eriksons theory of human development has gained wide acceptance and is often used as a framework for understanding the nature of issues that lead to current behaviour and to prepare for the coming stages (Douvan, 1997, p 16). The analysis of the Murray family members reveal that Jack Murray could have suffered from lack of stroking in his infancy, especially up to his adoption at the age of 6 months. This could have resulted in entrenched feelings of worthlessness and tendencies to mistrust the world. Such feelings, along with his experience of growing up as an adopted child, may have inculcated feelings of low self esteem and be causal in his current drinking problems. Whilst Lora has grown up in the presence of affectionate parents and a loving grandmother, she is now entering the school age and the coming 6 years will enlarge her contact with the world, where parents whilst still important will not be the complete authorities they have been until death. The application of Eriksons theory of human development helps social workers in understanding the various influences that individuals experience in the course of their lives and the roles of such influences in guiding their current behaviour and their emotional and social attitudes (Raeff Benson, 2003, p 61). Bronfenbrenners ecological model was first introduced in the early 1970s. His general ecological model is defined by 2 propositions (Brendtro, 2006, p 162). The first proposition states that human development, specifically in the early phases but also throughout life, occurs through processes that progressively become more complex and involve reciprocal interaction between active and evolving humans, who are bio-psychological in their approach, and the people, objects, and symbols in their immediate environment (Brendtro, 2006, p 162). Such interaction, when it occurs over extended time periods, on a regular basis are termed as proximal processes and can be found in activities between parent and children, children and children, and solitary or group play, as well as in reading, getting to know new skills and performing complex and difficult tasks (Brendtro, 2006, p 162). The second proposition states that the power, content, form and direction of these proximal processes influence development in a varying manner on account of the characteristics of developing individuals (Brendtro, 2006, p 162). Such development is also influenced by the environment in which such processes take place and the nature of development outcomes that are under study. The mother infant interaction, (an important proximal process) emerges as an important predictor of developmental outcomes (Brendtro, 2006, p 162). Bronfenbrenners theory defines 4 different types of systems, namely the Micro system, the Meso system, the Exo system and the Macro system, which shape human development (Austrian, 2002, p 43). The Micro system comprises of the family, classrooms and schools, and other systems in the proximal environment in which people operate. The Meso system represents the interaction of two micro systems, like the connection between the home and the school of a child (Austrian, 2002, p 43). The Exo system represents the environment that is external to the experience of an individual and in which his or her involvement is indirect, but which effects development, all the same. The workplace of the parents of a child is a relevant example of an Exo system. The Macro system represents the larger cultural context (Austrian, 2002, p 43). Bronfenbrenners theory perceives the environment of a child in terms of quality and context and attempts to explain differences between the knowledge, development and skills of individuals through the structure, support and guidance of the societies in which they exist (Ahuja, 2006, p 3). He states that interaction between over lapping eco systems affect people significantly. Applying Bronfenbrenners theory to the Murray family, it can be seen that Loras family and classrooms can be called the micro systems, which directly influence her working and development (Ahuja, 2006, p 3). When these two micro systems start working together to educate Lora, such education occurs through the Meso system. The society and culture in which Lora is being raised provides the underlying influence to these systems and is termed the Macro system. The comprehension of interaction of these systems helps in understanding the way in which children develop and the factors that influence failure and success (Ahuja, 2006, p 3). Analysis of various micro and macro systems can help social workers significantly in understanding the various influences that shape the development of children. Researchers have in fact specifically found the significance of macro systems to be causal to general depression and feelings of low self esteem in individuals (Ahuja, 2006, p 3). The application of Bronfenbrenners theory in the Murray family scenario enables the development of greater understanding on the influences of different micro and Macro systems on the development of Lora in her school age and can help social workers to adopt appropriate intervention methods. Role of Political and Social Processes on Human Development Whilst there is little doubt that the development of individuals is largely shaped by their home and school environments, sociological theory also places significant stress on the influence of larger society on such development (Grusec Hastings, 2008, p 42). All individuals grow up in specific political, cultural and social environments that shape their attitudes and behaviours and influence their development in specific ways. The particular societies in which people live are home to different types of religious, cultural and social attitudes, biases and beliefs (Grusec Hastings, 2008, p 42). Such political and social processes provide individuals with the means to participate within their own society, which itself contains shared customs, norms, traditions, values and social roles (Grusec Hastings, 2008, p 42). These processes are essentially life long, starting in childhood and continuing till death. Both Erikson and Bronfenbrenners theories deal with the process of socialisatio n but through different perspectives Such socialisation occurs through the influence of the family, religion, schools and peer groups, workplaces and the larger community (Berns, 2009, p 131). These processes are also influenced by local media and political thought. Children and young adults are significantly influenced by their peers. Such influences can often be negative and result in substance abuse, premature sexual activity and the need to live up to wrong expectations (Berns, 2009, p 131). Mass media plays an immense role in influencing human development. The constant exposure of children to glamour, sexual satisfaction and violence can influence the development of children and young adults in various ways (Berns, 2009, p 131). With regard to the Murray family, it can well be understood that the personal development of all concerned individuals is likely to be influenced by different political and social processes. The continuance of domestic violence at home can lead to feelings of distress in Lora, especially when she compares her domestic environment to that of her friends, and cause her to wish to shift to a more peaceful environment. Such socialisation processes can furthermore leads to feelings of shame about her background and low self esteem, lead her to shun her family and take solace in her peers and spark of truant and delinquent behaviour. Impact of Inequalities on Human Development Social work theory and knowledge primarily aims to diminish and eliminate the impact of inequalities on the lives of individuals (Neckerman, 2004, p 189). Inequalities can arise on account of various factors like income, education, gender and ethnic status. Such inequalities essentially serve to reduce excess of affected people to various facilities and reduce the prospects of their life outcomes and their chances to lead normal and enriching lives, inequalities in income can for example deprive the children of such families from various educational and other facilities and severely diminish their life outcomes (Neckerman, 2004, p 189). Such inequalities can also generate feelings of low esteem and result in suboptimal performance in and out of school during childhood and in the workplace in adult life. Numerous studies have revealed that children with poorly educated parents receive significantly lesser educational sustenance and support at home, which in turn affects their cognitiv e development and adversely influences their performance at school (Marger, 2004, p 86). Lora the 6 year old Murray child has until now done very well in school. The disturbed domestic situation in her house, especially the gender inequality between her parents and the domestic violence faced by her mother can well result in poorer educational support at home, especially when she is moving into the learning stage and needs it the most. Gender inequality has been widely accepted to be an important factor in the unequal life chances offered to men and women of societies across the world and has resulted in unequal development and life chances of the two sexes (Marger, 2004, p 86). Influence of Human Development Theories on Social Work Knowledge and Values Theories of human development help in shaping the ideas of readers on the essence of human behaviour (Austrian, 2002, p 56). It expands the understanding of individuals of the scope, the potential and complexity of human function. Whilst scholars of human development do not agree on or endorse a single theory, many of these theories provide new perspectives for the observation and interpretation of human behaviour (Austrian, 2002, p 56). Piagets theory of cognitive development has resulted in a new appreciation for the ways in which children construct sense and meaning out of their experiences (Raeff Benson, 2003, p 81). Eriksons psychosocial theory highlights the concept of identity, even as the social learning theory of Bandura has resulted in the widespread use of modelling to simulate conditions under which children increase their learning by observing and imitating the behaviour of others (Raeff Benson, 2003, p 81). The social work profession draws extensively on theories of h uman development for understanding the behaviour of individuals, with specific regard to the causal influences of such behaviour. An understanding of such theories not only enables social workers to understand the causes for human behaviour but also helps them to plan appropriate interventions to improve the social, emotional and economic conditions of people (Raeff Benson, 2003, p 81). It helps social workers to understand the dynamic interaction that takes place among human beings and the impact of social systems upon the lives of people. A greater understanding of such theories also helps social workers in appreciating human diversity, as well as the impact of different actions in helping human beings to access opportunities and services that foster realisation of social and economic justice (Austrian, 2002, p 56). Conclusions

Jen Lopez :: essays research papers

Jennifer Lopez was born in the Bronx, New York on July 24, 1970. She was born in the United States to Puerto Rican Parents, Jennifer considers herself to be a Puerto Rican and she is very proud of her Hispanic heritage and culture. Her father is David Lopez, a computer specialist, and her mother Guadalupe Lopez, a Kindergarten teacher. Her parents recognized Jennifer’s talent and enthusiasm for performing and at the age of five the enrolled her in dance classes. Her mother said â€Å"Jennifer always loved to sing, but she was also a great actress and knew that she would have a bright future ahead of her.† With the support of her parents Jennifer grew up to be a very sensible girl, who is still very close to her family. When Jennifer earned her million-dollar paycheck for playing the role in the movie Selena, she bought her mom a Cadillac. Even though they saw Jennifer’s talent at the age of five, their relationship was not always understandable. Jennifer made a m ajor decision and that was not to go to College. That decision was very disappointing to her parents who wanted her to go to law school. Her parents supported her pursuit of a career in show business, they did not wanted to be in the expense of her education. When Jennifer told her parents that she was not going to College and law school, they thought it was really stupid to go off and try to be a movie star. Her parents who at that time could not understand the choices she made are very happy for their daughter and what she has accomplish. When she left her home at the middle of a fight and never went back. She said,† I had to make my own way† and then lived in a Manhattan dance studio where she was training. Then she got an apartment with some friends in Manhattan Hell’s Kitchen. Since the time she move out of her home she started her showbiz career as a dancer in stage musicals and most notably in her tour to Golden musicals of Broadway and in a Japanese tour. Then she audition to be a fly girl in Fox’s hit comedy â€Å"In living Colors,† she beat out 2,000 other contenders in a nation wide competition. Then she cracked into Hollywood and she wanted to make a transition to acting, but she followed Color producer Keenan Ivory Wayans advice to stay with the show for a while before making any attempt to move on.

The Disadvantages of Technology in Education

Technology can be rightly said to have impacted every occupation. Technology application and the changes it brings are in fact intended and necessitated, as it is a part of the larger development of the society. Technology has been introduced in all fields and occupations, either directly or indirectly, and its benefits are evident in terms of time, quality, process etc. As technology has been broadly introduced in all walks of life, no occupation can claim to be independent of either direct or indirect use of technology, since it is integrated to the society.It is therefore obvious that the fields of education and learning have also incorporated technology, resulting in unprecedented possibilities and results. The advantages of technology cannot be disputed, particularly given the recent trends in e-learning, however despite this; its disadvantages shouldn’t be ignored. The need and maintenance of the associated infrastructure for technology introduction may itself look chall enging for many. New technologies may require special wiring and any breakdowns would be disruptive and need repair by experts.Also when high costs on software, hardware and connection costs are borne, the equipment might soon be outdated (NCRTEC, 2005). The teacher has now become more of a learning facilitator rather than an instructor or information provider. The teacher’s methodology has changed from traditional, teacher-centered teaching to learner-centered, interactive teaching. The teacher has moved away from being a fact teller and an expert to being a collaborator and occasionally an expert, with learning emphasis being on relationships and inquiry rather than facts and reproduction.Students are moving away from passive learning, given the lesser lecturing; towards cooperative learning. Focusing more on information literacy, the teacher helps in guiding students to identify and access required information. With students being capable of resourcing all relevant informa tion, the teacher now needs to help them to analyze, evaluate and judge the suitability of the information; they have required. With the involvement of technology, the traditional skills and exercises of students are being increasingly abandoned.The use of calculator by students avoids them the benefits of manual calculations. Manual calculations involve deeper analysis of the problems which develop brain activity and mental capability. Introduction of technologies, while helping students, are in fact doing away with the crucial mental exercises and reasoning efforts of the students, depriving them of the associated valuable benefits. With most schools accepting electronic submission of answers or essays, students no longer need to be concerned of spelling and grammar usage.These are automatically highlighted or corrected, saving them the effort to do it by themselves. In the long run, they do not develop the skills necessary for identifying and correcting these. The use of internet in education not only exposes students to wrong or misleading information, but also to engage in plagiarism. Assignments and tests are quickly completed by reproducing available information rather than producing it by themselves. The use of technology in education is definitely doing away with the skill sets that have been acquired by individuals with much effort and pain, traditionally.Music education is also an area where technological changes have done away with traditional requirements. Today, the sounds of drum, piano or other instruments can be electronically created without learning the fundamentals of that instrument. Thus experts only need to manipulate these sounds effectively, which would otherwise have required the performance of so many musicians. Although there are several advantages of a computer, the use of computers in language learning has its own restrictions. One of its main disadvantages is that it would lead to an increase in education costs (Gips, DiMattia & Gips).Low budget schools and poor students would not be able to buy a computer, when computer become a basic necessity for students. This would cause unjust conditions on the part of poor schools and students, with regard to education. Even when computers are bought, the need for expensive software or hardware would again be another financial strain on the part of the schools and students. For computer assisted second language learning, it becomes necessary that both the teacher and student be proficient in the basics of computer use.Students cannot use computers in language learning when they lack training in computer technology. Most teachers unfortunately do not have the technological training to guide their students through computer assisted language learning programs (Lai & Kritsonis). Another problem with regard to computers in language learning is that the software for language learning if far from perfect. Many language learning programs are recent and its functions are high ly limited. The computers need to be capable of not just evaluating the correctness of a spoken word, but also the appropriateness of the said word.It should also be capable of evaluating student’s response with respect to pronunciation, syntax and context of usage. Second language learners face several situations in the course of their language learning and computers cannot handle such unexpected situations. As the artificial intelligence of the computers is limited, it cannot handle unexpected learning problems and queries of learners’. It should be noted that there is a fundamental difference in the way humans and computers analyze information. Computers with such a level of intelligence cannot be expected for at least quite sometime (Blin, 1994).With the emergence of newer technologies, the fact that it is indeed beneficial cannot be disputed. However, these new technologies are doing away with the requirement for development of personal skill sets that have been t raditionally followed. Our education is moving away from a totally technology independent field to highly technology dependent. Education is our basics to understanding of the world, survival and success tactics. With much of this education being technology backed, we step into the harsh world, largely backed with technology use. The change here is irreversible like that in other technology aided fields.

Poety Essay

Poety Essay Poety Essay The purpose of a poem is for the author to illustrate a message to the reader. This message can be to entertain, to inform, to persuade/convince, or just to express their feelings in general. In the poems â€Å"Harlem†, written by Langston Hughes, and â€Å"Introduction to Poetry†, written by Billy Collins, both authors force the reader to examine themselves as the poem is being read. In the poem â€Å"Harlem†, the author allowed me to visualize what could happen to a dream that wasn’t utilized. On the other hand, the poem â€Å"Introduction to Poetry† symbolizes how the majority of people torture poetry. Langston Hughes does a better job with forcing the reader to examine themselves. His self- reflection has more impact on readers because of his imagination, life to words, and creativity. Imagination is the ability to think above and beyond the common. Langston Hughes does a better job at this in â€Å"Harlem† because he lists several outcomes for a deferred dream. In this poem he states â€Å"Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?† (Hughes 1) which illustrates his imagination level to compare such a dream to a raisin that is losing its existence. In the poem â€Å"Introduction to Poetry† Collins states, â€Å"I ask them to take a poem and hold it up to the light like a color slide† (Collins 1). His imagination level is very basic in this poem compared to Hughes. Hughes imagination level is incredible for the possible dreams whereabouts. Collins and Hughes use personification to give words life in their poems. In stanza five of "Introduction to Poetry", Collins' poem states, "†¦ tie the poem to a chair with rope and torture a confession out of it" (Collins 13). This quote illustrates that the poem is no longer seen as an expressed feeling on a sheet of paper, but a victim that is accused for a wrong message. The poem is not human, but Collins illustrates how people go about criticizing what they do not know. In "Harlem", Hughes provides life to the word "dream" as he asks the question "...or fester like a sore - and then run?" (Hughes 3). It is apparent that dreams do not have legs and cannot feel pain, but Hughes just gives the dream a human characteristic that grabs the reader's attention. Both of these authors did a

Sandels Analysis of Utilitarianism and Libertarianism

Sandels Analysis of Utilitarianism and Libertarianism The United States is experiencing a social crisis. The problem is characterized by young students armed with handguns, corporate greed and families caving in because of financial difficulties. Sandel a legal expert asserted that the American public must reinterpret concepts of liberty, prosperity, equality, and human rights.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Sandel’s Analysis of Utilitarianism and Libertarianism specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More He said that it is not enough to simply develop a framework that will protect the welfare of the majority. There is a desperate need for people of diverse backgrounds to work together. Sandel said that American citizens must learn sacrifice in order to achieve true equality. Before going any further it must be understood that the present is a mere byproduct of the decisions and actions made in the past. The current state of the social and moral landscape of the United Sta tes of America can be understood through the study of American history. By doing so, one can understand the meaning and value of liberty, prosperity, equality, and human rights. It is also important to point out that the belief system used to interpret these concepts is the result of nation building. This is the process that came about after the dramatic transformation of the United States from a former colony to an independent nation. It is therefore important to point out the circumstances that led to the creation of the U.S. political system that incorporated the principles of utilitarianism and libertarianism. In other words, it is not enough to simply view these concepts as a means to develop a framework for creating laws and political decisions. These concepts must be understood in their proper context. Therefore, liberty must be understood in relation to experience of the Americans living in the colonies as they asserted their independence against the British Empire. Equality and human rights must be understood in the context of the national struggle to break free from tyranny. Prosperity must be understood in the pursuit of the American Dream. Utilitarianism It is now time to figure out the basis for the policies enacted to promote liberty, equality, human rights, and prosperity. There are two major frameworks used by lawmakers and political leaders.Advertising Looking for essay on political sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The first one is utilitarianism and the second one is libertarianism. John Stuart Mill’s interpretation of utilitarianism contributed greatly to the discussion on how to develop the correct framework for policymaking purposes. He pointed out, that there is a much better way to develop guidelines that can help society deal with social issues. John Stuart Mill said that â€Å"actions are right in proportion as they tend to promote happiness, wrong as t hey tend to produce the reverse of happiness† (Mill 1). This theory is generally known in legal circles as utilitarianism. In the utilitarian framework a correct decision can be achieved if the end goal is the creation of happiness. It must not be interpreted as a self-indulgent mindset even if it seeks to eliminate pain, discomfort, and other negative feelings. It must be understood from the point of view of John Stuart Mill. He clarified that there must be a standard and this standard: is not the agent’s own greatest happiness, but the greatest amount of happiness altogether; and if it may possibly be doubted whether a noble character is always the happier for its nobleness, there can be no doubt that it makes other people happier, and that the world in general is immensely a gainer by it. Utilitarianism, therefore, could only attain its end by the general cultivation of nobleness of character (Mill 7). Sandel understood the core principle of utilitarianism and made t he remarks: â€Å"One way of thinking about the right thing to do, perhaps the most natural and familiar way, is to ask what will produce the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people† (Sandel 9). But this legal expert was quick to make a counter-argument â€Å"that maximizing utility, or collective happiness, may come at the expense of individual rights† (Sandel 9). This assertion is a valid point especially if one considers the tendency of the majority to create laws that ignores the welfare of the minority. Libertarianism Utilitarianism provided a clear goal and that is the pursuit of happiness for the greatest number of people. However, one can find several weaknesses in this argument. It is therefore important to address a problematic issue of utilitarianism which is the creation of a standard that oversimplifies social issues. Thus, the concept of libertarianism was introduced as an alternative view. Libertarianism addresses the need to clarify the imp ortance of human rights. According to Sandel:Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Sandel’s Analysis of Utilitarianism and Libertarianism specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Libertarians are best known as advocates of free markets and critics of government regulation. Underlying their laissez-faire stance is the idea that each of us has a fundamental right to liberty – a right to do whatever we want wit the things we own, provided we do not violate other people’s rights to do the same (Sandel 49). The high value given to liberty explains the reason why a clarification was made regarding the source of these ideas. It must be pointed out that the libertarian’s point of view was heavily influenced by historical events. Libertarianism is the assurance that the tyranny of the elite can no longer be repeated in the future. But in the 21st century the fear of oppression from a monarchy is no longer a re levant issue. In fact, liberty is now seen as an indirect cause to some of the problems faced by many Americans today. This negative consequence is the result of the misuse of liberty, especially if viewed from the clause stating that every American citizen has the right to do whatever he wants to do. It is easy to abuse liberty, even if one adds limitations, such as the idea that everything is feasible as long as the person does not violate the rights of others. Citizenship, Sacrifice and Service Liberty is important especially when viewed in countries where a dictator rules. Liberty is precious especially after a recent declaration of independence. But liberty can be counter-productive if citizens of the State have become self-centered in their pursuit of happiness. The best example is the use of liberty to exploit legal loopholes. The damaging effect of liberty can be seen in the way it was used to bend rules in order to exploit people. Sandel argued that the citizens of this nat ion must have a strong sense of community. It must incorporate the highest ideals of utilitarianism and libertarianism. In other words this country must work towards policies that will benefit the greatest number of people without trampling individual rights. It is not as improbable as one would think but it would require a change in mindset concerning the importance of liberty, prosperity, equality and human rights. Sandel made an important observation when it comes to the pursuit of the good life. He was correct to assert that there is nothing wrong with the need to create a good life. But the disturbing development in 21st century America can be traced to the lack of a sense of community. Thus, individuals tend to work on their own without regard to others. The inability to form meaningful relationships with diverse groups of people intensified the development of elitist thinking. Furthermore, there is also the increasing addiction to the idea of privatization. The idea of privat e property is one of the most enduring and important legacies of the founding fathers. They strived hard to provide individual citizens the right to have their own property. Therefore, they can live like kings in their own domain. However, there are many instances when privatization can lead to selfish behavior.Advertising Looking for essay on political sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It is high time to understand that privatization has limits. A person must not build his own kingdom and create a barrier that separates him form the rest of the community. It will not take long before that person experiences the sting of isolation. This person may succeed in creating an oasis in a city torn by violence and poverty. But what will be the effect the moment he steps out of his cocoon? There are many incidents wherein rich people get killed from mugging and other violent acts. In other words, this person has to work really hard in order to create slice of heaven on Earth, in order to insulate himself from the outside world. The unintended consequence is the need for the ordinary person to work like a slave in order to achieve happiness. In the past children were happy with toys that they can make on their own. Today, a typical American child cannot be happy unless his parents bring him to a toy store selling expensive items. When he grows up and become a teenager, his a ppetite for expensive toys remains the same. He will then pressure his parents to buy video games and other items that can cost hundreds of dollars The desperate desire to acquire more wealth in order to buy things that they do not need has driven men and women to do things that they would regret later in life. In many cases business leaders are forced to bend the rules in order to increase the profit margins of their respective companies. The best examples were the erring companies that went bankrupt after the government indicted them because of irregularities. The story of Enron and WorldCom is a reminder that America requires a transformation from within (Fusaro Miller 10). Inequality and Solidarity Sandel also made an important contribution when he said that it is not only important to respect individual human rights and support the desire of people to pursue happiness. He said that it is also important to work together as one people. Sandel circles back to his original positio n that people need to have a sense of community. It is important ingredient in order to attain sustainable economic growth. Sandel also said that it is of critical importance to eradicate inequality. However, Sandel proposed that it is not enough to simply create laws that free them from bondage of slavery and segregation. It is not enough to uphold the law. People of all race, creed, and color must come together in solidarity. Sandel said that if society cannot solve the problem of inequality then the gap between rich and poor widens. Sandel made an effective argument regarding the evils of inequality. He said that if the gap widens between rich and poor, then, there is no hope to rehabilitate broken institutions like the public school system. It is interesting to note the rapid decline of what was once considered as a bastion of quality education was not caused by a weak economy but the result of neglect. It is the direct result when influential people stopped sending their childr en to private schools. At first glance the decision of the rich to send their children to private schools is a mere expression of their right to choose. They believe that sending their children to private schools ensures a bright future. Using principles gleaned from utilitarianism and libertarianism, this decision is perfectly within their rights. But upon closer examination, it will be revealed that the self-imposed isolation by the country’s elite resulted in the overall decline of social institutions. The explanation is so simple but requires the brilliance of Sandels mind to make it obvious to the general public. The failure to interact with other members of society on the basis of social status prevents influential people to see the problems that plague society. More importantly, the barrier that exists between social classes prevents the rich and powerful to help those who are in need because they are unaware of their plight. Conclusion Sandel made a convincing argumen t regarding the need to go beyond the principles of utilitarianism and libertarianism. He said that even if one combines the best ideas from both schools of thought, it is not enough to deal with the problems that have caused the deterioration of American society. Sandel’s proposal is so simple but it is highly unlikely that Americans will embrace it. Sandel said that people must have a sense of community. According to him, it is not enough to know liberty, prosperity, equality and human rights. Sandel said that people of diverse social backgrounds must come together. This proposition can be achieved if rich and poor continue to find ways to interact with each other. In this way the general public becomes aware of the problems that affect everyone and they can work together to find a solution to a particular need. Fusaro, Peter and Ross Miller. What Went Wrong at Enron: Everyone’s Guide to the  Largets Bankruptcy in U.S. History. New Jersey: John Wiley Sons, 2002. Print. Mill, John Stuart. Utilitarianism. Utilitarianism, Mar. 2011. Web. https://www.utilitarianism.com/mill1.htm. Sandel, Michael. Justice: A Reader. New York: Oxford University Press, 2007. Print.

European Works Councils Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

European Works Councils - Essay Example Employers' and personnel' organizations be supposed to play an lively role at a variety of levels in order to hold up the meeting on decent work (Philippe Egger, 2003). During the not on time 19th and earlier 20th centuries manufacturing democratic system was a concept included in the ideological constituent of the manufacturing and following growth of labour actions all through Europe. In spirit and in put into practice it come about throughout and following the 2nd World War as a practical and provisional organisational agreement, which was only aiming to add to manufacture (de Grauwe, P, 2002, 693-718). This research focused on this truth that the European Works Council (EWC) Instruction in 1994 was seen as a important development inside European manufacturing family members and the result of thorough political negotiations. The query of worker contribution had forever been middle to the ambitions of the European Union's (EU) social measurement but important steps had been almost absent since the Agreement of Rome in 1957. The ultimate Directive required transnational companies (TNCs) inside the EU to expand exact organization and structures of cross-border discussion with their workers (see the foreword to this text). It responded to an continuing anxiety inside the worldwide labour group with regard to the directive of novel forms of worldwide assets. Furthermore, the long-term prospect of the deal union group, and certainly the European Commission, up-and-coming from the EWC Instruction are consequently far attainment. Investigate inside this complex area of manufacturing family members straddles the matters of financial and following meeting in the EU, the altering policies of TNCs, the moribund significance of nationwide sectoral communal bargaining preparations and the institutional and following difficulty of European trade amalgamations. Moreover, these wide areas of investigate are now life form additional explored subsequent the completion of the EWC Instruction and the tackle the new structure pretense for the European labour association. Coming to firm finished with look upon to these growths is clearly unwise at this near the beginning period (Hughes Hallett, A.J., Ma. Y., Demertzis, M, 2000, 141-55). In the '80s, a more traditional government with its alteration to the service Act 1982, supported unpaid participation rather than contribution through legislated force. In 1994, after more than a few additional commands, the EU adopted the European Works Councils Instruction require the organization of European-wide Works Council in corporations with more than 1,000 workers in service in two or additional associate states. European Work Councils The self-governing deficit in the EU has many sources; not smallest amount of which is the impotence of the European Parliament. The European Parliament is the merely body inside the Union that is in a straight line elected, and consequently the only of the institution that

Prospects of Internationalisation of Frontex Research Paper

Prospects of Internationalisation of Frontex - Research Paper Example This paper tells that quite often firms are proved to lack the necessary support in order to expand their operations, a fact that can lead to the limitation of their profitability and may put under risk their existence in the market. On the other hand, even if a firm’s entrance in the international market is effectively supported, other issues can appear; the failure in identifying the risks that the specific initiative may include could lead the organization involved to severe damages. In fact, the above phenomenon is quite common; the responsibility of a firm’s management team for the specific problem cannot be doubted. in the study of Diamantopoulos, it is noted that ‘the methodological pitfalls of international research often lead to questionable research results’. Despite the above problems, the internationalization of firms remains the most effective strategy for the increase of their performance and for this reason it should be attempted if it is con sidered as achievable – except the case of severe operational or financial problems. The current paper examines the prospects of internationalization of Frontex, a manufacturing firm that has a significant presence in Jordan. Since its establishment the firm has achieved to increase its performance within its industry; however, gradually the internationalization of the firm has been proved to be unavoidable. The firm’s power to compete its rivals is going to be tested through its entrance in the French market. L. Kawan and J. Fayum, engineers, established Frontex in Jordan in 1986. For a long time, the firm’s operations were limited to a specific manufacturing activity: the production of drilling machines. Today, the firm's production has been expanded in a wide range of products – machinery - of similar use. The firm began its activities with about 25 employees.