Differences Between Morgenthau And Kant - 1311 Words

A school of thought, as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is a point of view held by a particular group. Schools of thought relating to world politics are theories that have been the center and cause of countless debates. Two of the most well-known and influential schools of thought in the realm of international politics are realism and liberalism. While the ideas making up both systems have been around for centuries, each school has been since furthered and analyzed by international relations experts and philosophers. Two notable figures of realism and liberalism are Hans Morgenthau and Immanuel Kant, respectively, who formed basic principles that became the center of each school of thought. There are several key differences between Morgenthau and Kant. Some of these lie in their opposing views on international systems, states as actors in international affairs, and ethical issues. Others revolve around government systems and the concept of human nature. Hans Morgenthau, a philosopher of realist thought, believed individual states to be the most important actors on the international stage. He argues that states are self-interested forces constantly vying with other states for dominance; that they’re vying with them for power. Power refers to â€Å"anything that establishes and maintains the control of man over man.† States are consistently consumed with the process of maintaining the power they already have and acquiring more. In Politics Among Nations, MorgenthauShow MoreRelatedJohn Locke : A Work Of Political Ingenuity872 Words   |  4 Pagespower between state and its people without common superior intervening revert a society to state of nature. BETWEEN KANT AND LOCKE: SIMILARITIES AND THE INCONGRUITY IN THEIR THOUGHT This part focuses on the contrasting views and similarities between the works of Locke and Kant on civil society. The latter’s approach towards the some ideas were more abstract and somewhat controversial than the views of Locke. Some writers argue that the reason for the inconsistency in philosophical work of Kant isRead MoreThe Between Domestic And International Affairs1504 Words   |  7 Pagesgovernments are losing their control. New global politics are arising where there is no difference between domestic and international affairs. Non-governmental organizations have helped with global connectedness by connecting people throughout the world. International organizations like the International Money Fund have shown the growth of worldwide rules and regulations. The world has come to have interdependence between nation-states, where an event that happens somewhere else could still have a greatRead MoreIslamic Terrorism And Islamic Extremist Violence1782 Words   |  8 PagesTheo Van Gogh, a controversial film director and columnist (BBC src. C 2004). While both France and The Netherlands have witnessed cases of Islamic extremist violence and display similar government structures, some key political and social differences exist between each country in relation to Islamic integration and acceptance. A comparison of the countries illuminates the necessity of cultural assimilation and the significant benefits of an active government partially exemplified in the Netherland’sRead MoreThe And International Political And Legal Sphere Essay2238 Words   |  9 Pagesproblems of the current international political and legal sphere are examined and deciphered to fix all of the â€Å"problems† that, according to Delsol, plague society. I n Unjust Justice, she brings a realist approach to international law similar to Hans Morgenthau, arguing that the state of anarchy with is fueled through plurality is more favorable to an international state of monopolized ideals. Grappling with the idealism and realism, Chantal Delsol adopts the ideas of many political theorists to paintRead MoreIsrael Palestine Conflict, an International Relations Research Paper8755 Words   |  36 Pagesgoing back atleast 5000 years in time, the paper only throws light on the conflict, post 19th century. And this too, only a cursory overview of a timeline, rather than a detailed description. The paper also attempts to find the bones of contention between the two peoples, clearly laying out the issues and problems along with the need to resolve them. Finally, the paper analyses the two mainstream solutions suggested for resolution of this conflict, being the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Two-Stateà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ theory and the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"Bi-NationalRead MoreIsrael Palestine Conflict, an International Relations Research Paper8749 Words   |  35 Pagesgoing back atleast 5000 years in time, the paper only throws light on the conflict, post 19th century. And this too, only a cursory overview of a timeline, rather than a detailed description. The paper also attempts to find the bones of contention between the two peoples, clearly laying out the issues and problems along with the need to resolve them. Finally, the paper analyses the two mainstream solutions suggested for resolution of this conflict, being the ‘Two-State’ theory and the ‘Bi-NationalRead MoreThe Evil of Politics and the Ethics of Evil10364 Words   |  42 PagesThe Evil of Politics and the Ethics of Evil Author(s): Hans J. Morgenthau Source: Ethics, Vol. 56, No. 1 (Oct., 1945), pp. 1-18 Published by: The University of Chicago Press Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/2988705 Accessed: 21/09/2010 06:43 Your use of the JSTOR archive indicates your acceptance of JSTORs Terms and Conditions of Use, available at http://www.jstor.org/page/info/about/policies/terms.jsp. JSTORs Terms and Conditions of Use provides, in part, that unless you have obtained prior

Simulation Review Paper Free Essays

Running header: Simulation Review Paper Simulation Review Paper HSC/405 January 10, 2012 David Catoe Some point in the lives of many to all there are choices and decisions that are to be made. These individual choices and decisions we make help guide us to a certain destination or point in life where one would like to be. Not to say that reaching these set destinations will be easy to get too but they aren’t hard to accomplish with positive thinking and actions. We will write a custom essay sample on Simulation Review Paper or any similar topic only for you Order Now Financial and economic decisions in a business perspective are difficult and could feel like we are outside trying to look in at times when put in a tough position. My goal is to further review the financial account of a Cardiac care hospital to implant strategies to resolve some ongoing financial concerns. The cardiac care hospital in review is Elijah Hearts Center (EHC). EHC is facing many critical downfalls that are causing financial concerns to arise. Several of those downfalls are; Capital shortage, capital expansion, accounting systems and funding options. Critical thinking, planning and leadership skills are needed to help figure out a new financial process for the organization and that is what will be given and shown in today’s paper. After analyzing and reviewing the current status of the company I must figure out what’s beneficial for the organization in regard to capital shortage. Considering my options I decided to reduce cost in funding by cutting down on staff. This decision I made was hard but considering the facts at hand I made this choice with an open mind and positive thinking. The downsizing of staff has a slight effect on the hospital but nothing to damaging to their functions and operations. Not only have I decided to downsize staff but I have also chosen to change the skill mix. This will better help increase patient volumes and allow for the organization to solve the capital shortfall. As for my choice in loan options I went with loan option one vs. loan option two for a few different reasons. When picking which loan was best it was simple due to the given interest rates and monthly installments which were ery similar in pricing and percentage. However the concern was in that of loan option two. There was a prepayment limitation of 6 represented for loan option two which loan option one had a prepayment limitation of 0. The critical and visual aspect of what was provided helped me in my choices resulting in a solved problem with the capital storage at EHC. Moving on with all the advancements with technology it is considered by Mr. Sanchez to acquire a High-Speed CT Scanner, an X-Ray Machine and a New Ultrasound system. These systems will provide more satisfying quality of care to EHC patients. My given option of ensuring the hospital has these equipment’s are either buying new or refurbished including loan options of a capital or operating lease. Starting with the high-speed CT scanner, after review of my options and looking over the new equipment details I have made a pick. I chose to have EHC invest into a refurbished machine. The choice was the correct one for EHC and its financial status. It is shown that the price is cheaper which also technology for tis equipment is bond to change in a few years. The X-ray machine was tough to choose the right option but I chose a capital lease. The reason was the equipment is new and after the lease ends the company is given an option of purchasing the equipment or not. The capital lease also allows for EHC to claim ownership on their balance sheets within the provided lease period. Next is the Ultrasound system and my decision was between a capital lease and an operating lease. After closer review I believe the operating lease was the best option. The equipment at this point is two years old and change with technology every few years. This would allow EHC to be current with technology and future options of keeping what machinery is needed or if not handing back outdated equipment. As with that said the operating lease is not treated as if its apart of the assets of the company but as a rental. The decisions that I have made were all correct and EHC is now doing better allowing for growths in profits and patient care. Capital expansion is important for EHC so I chose HUD 242 Loan Insurance Program as the best fit. The company is due to have increased revenues within the seventh year of operating the new expansion which allows time for saving. HUD 242 loan insurance program best fits because interest payments begin 8 years after start date. This is perfect and falls in line with the company’s financial status, future revenue and help save funds. The decisions that I have made have proven to provide well for EHC and now the company is back on track and in good financial status. The simulation that was provided served me with great hands on experience and knowledge of how critical thinking can benefit not only me but many others in different ways. The choices that I made just don’t happen in a matter of a minute but took a matter of time. Remember the turtle won the race being steady and careful and that’s how I feel I took this simulation review. I had to review and analyze arrears of different categories trying to figure out the best options for EHC. The financial aspect within a business such as EHC has many different bridges which some might be easy to cross while others are difficult. This simulation did challenge me to consider not only what I wanted for the company but what was best compatible. I worked though the simulation with nervousness but then again I was confident and come out with correct choices. In Conclusion EHC has allowed me a great opportunity to help resolve their financial matters in which all worked out fine. The medical equipment that EHC has now allows for patient to wait in lesser lines for tests or treatments. By being moving more quickly and efficiently patients become less stress when in the hospital. The downsizing of staff at this point was right but in the future more job opportunities will be open allowing for returning staff growth. Since EHC is moving ahead in a positive manner the organization set forth $75 million dollars for an expansion. The expansion called for a plan that HUD 242 loan insurance program could help with in funding. The choices made lead EHC to have good cash flow resulting in a steady income. Introduced were strategies for future and current use and the purpose is that bridges that one though couldn’t be crossed have been crossed through careful thought and analyzing. How to cite Simulation Review Paper, Papers

Antigone Essay Questions Example For Students

Antigone Essay Questions A monologue from the play by Sophocles NOTE: This monologue is reprinted from Greek Dramas. Ed. Bernadotte Perrin. New York: D. Appleton and Company, 1904. GUARD: My liege, I will not say that I come breathless from speed, or that I have plied a nimble foot; for often did my thoughts make me pause, and wheel round in my path, to return. My mind was holding large discourse with me: Fool, why goest thou to certain doom? Wretch, tarrying again? And if Creon hears this from another, must not thou smart for it? So debating, I went on my way with lagging steps, and thus a short road was made long. At last, however, it carried the day that I should come hitherto thee; and, though my tale be naught, yet will I tell it; for I come with a good grip on one hopethat I can suffer nothing but is my fate. The corpsesome one hath just given it burial, and gone awayafter sprinkling thirsty dust on the flesh with such other rites as piety enjoins. I know not what living man hath dared this deed; no stroke of pickaxe was seen there, no earth thrown up by mattock; the ground was hard and dry, unbroken, without track of wheels; the doer was one who had left no trace. And when the first day-watchman showed it to us, sore wonder fell on all. The dead man was veiled from us; not shut within a tomb, but lightly strewn with dust, as by the hand of one who shunned a curse. And no sign met the eye as though any beast of prey or any dog had come nigh to him, or torn him. Then evil words flew fast and loud among us, guard accusing guard; and it would een have come to blows at last, nor was there any to hinder. Every man was the culprit, and no one was convicted, but all disclaimed knowledge of the deed. And we were ready to take red-hot iron in our handsto walk through fireto make oath by the gods that we had not done the deedthat we were not privy to the planning or the doing. At last, when all our searching was fruitless, one spake, who made us all bend our faces on the earth in fear; for we saw not how we could gainsay him, or escape mischance if we obeyed. His counsel was that this deed must be reported to thee, and not hidden. And this se emed best; and the lot doomed my hapless self to win this prize. So here I standas unwelcome as unwilling, well I wot; for no man delights in the bearer of bad news.

Puritanism Essays (655 words) - Christian Philosophy, Sin

Puritanism Puritanism, a religious reform movement in the late 16th and 17th century which sought to "purify" the Church of England, Anglican Church. Puritans became noted for a spirit of moral and religious pledge that determined their whole way of life, and they sought through church reform to make their lifestyle the pattern for the whole nation. Their efforts to transform the nation led to a civil war in England, and to the founding of the colonies in America as working models of the Puritan way of life. The excerpt from Jonathon Edwards' sermon Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, is an example on how Puritans followed their religion. Jonathon Edwards' work describes how God hated Puritans for their sins; which led the Puritans to feel guilty for their sins. With the wrath of God and the guilt man felt, the damnation and salvation principal became the focus of Puritanism. The Puritans religion had the belief that they were sinners, and that God hated them for their sins. According to Jonathon Edwards, God hates man... "'Tis true that judgement against your evil work has not been executed..." (Edwards 41). He used evil work as a metaphor for sins. Bremmer's article Puritanism, its Essence and Attraction describes God's creation of man, man's fall from his grace, and how we became sinners. "Man was part of God's creation and was made in the image of God. The relationship between God and the first man Adam was described as a covenantal bond. In the words of the Puritan West - minister Confession, 'life was promised to Adam, and in him to his posterity, upon condition of perfect and personal obedience.' But'our first parents' violated this covenant..." (Bremmer 20). Since our first parents violated this covenant, they fell from their original righteousness and communion with God, and so became dead in their sin. The effects from this original sin were born by all men thereafter. Since the Puritans believed that we were all sinners, the Preachers often utilized the concepts of the wrath of God and guilt in their sermons. God was so angry with man that his wrath was great. Edwards in his sermon described God's wrath in terms of metaphors. His wrath was so vengeful that he described floodwaters being held by a dam. It was God's will that the dam did not break, and wipe man out. "Puritans spoke frequently in his benevolence" (Bremmer 20). God had ill will toward man, and only salvaged a few and left the rest for damnation. Man after the fall was by nature sinful, and for sinning against God man deserves damnation. This was a central belief of Puritanism. Every man was in the hands of an angry God. "Thus are all you that never passed under a great change of heart by the mighty power of the Spirit of God upon your souls; ... 'tis nothing but his mere pleasure that keeps you from being this movement swallowed up in everlasting destruction" (Edwards 42). At the time God created Adam, man's salvation depended on his own actions. God pledged happiness to Adam in return for man's absolute obedience to the will of God. The Covenant of Works exemplifies this concept in Puritanism. In the fall, man broke the covenant, and lost his opportunity to be salvaged. The consequences of man's sin could only be reversed through divine action. God provided the release by the Covenant of Redemption. "... the agreement whereby the Father compacted with the Son to provide the salvation of some men and women through Christ's sacrifice" (Bremmer 21). This superficial order for the sins of mankind made possible individual redemption through the Covenant of Grace. Once man reached this Covenant, believing in God could redeem him. The excerpt from Jonathon Edward's sermon, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, focused on Puritanism theology. He addressed the issues of man as a sinner, God's hate of sinners - wrath of God. Throughout the sermon he addressed the damnation of man, the process of salvation and redemption. He hammered at his congregation using guilt and fear for their souls. Thus Edwards' sermon incorporated the three covenants; Covenant of Works, Covenant of Redemption, and Covenant of Grace.

World War I2 essays

World War I2 essays Who started World War I? According to the treaty of Versailles Germany and their allies started the war (document 4)(see fig 1.0). In this essay I will tell you why I think that all of Europe is responsible for the outbreak of World War I. In the essay I will use 6 of the 7 documents in the document-based question and use some outside sources to prove my theories. Nationalism was on reason why World War I started. Nationalism is a strong feeling of loyalty to ones own country (Childcraft dictionary). Nationalism was strong in Europe but it was especially strong in France and Germany. Germany was proud of their economic and military strength wile France was one of Europes leading powers (wh p.694). While nationalism was strong in those two countries they were having a bitter rivalry. The French were still mad at their defeat in the Franco-Prussian war in 1871 because their leader Napoleon III was overthrown had they had to accept harsh peace with Germany. The peace treaty said that they (France) had to surrender their provinces of Alsace and Lorraine (see fig. 2.0) and pay a huge sum of money to Germany (wh p.617). At the same time in Austria-Hungary they feared nationalism because they worried that Serbia would rebel and be in a different country. Meanwhile Russia had a powerful form of nationalism called Pan-Slavism, which stated that all Slavic people shared a common nationality (ce). So Russia as the largest Slavic country stood ready to defend Serbia (wh p.695). In the Ottoman empire they feared Serbia and Russia because Serbia was aggressive and they also dreamed of having their own south slave state (wh p.695), and Russia over the past years was decreasing the ottoman empires borders by invading them and they wanted revenge for that (ce). Another factor that helped cause World War I was the economic and imperial rivalries (document 5). ...

How to Write a Discussion Section of a Research Paper

How to Write a Discussion Section of a Research Paper How to Write a Discussion Section of a Research Paper The discussion section of a research paper is dedicated to interpretation of your findings and their significance. Here, you discuss what has already been found about the problem by other researchers, and present your fresh view on the issue, taking into consideration all evidence and facts. This part of a research paper is very indicative of your progress as a student. The discussion section can be considered the most important part of the research paper, because it demonstrates your analytical skills. A good discussion section needs a critical approach to the question, and your ability to synthesize the findings of your research. If it has revealed any gaps in the field, this is also a good section to highlight these gaps, and give your suggestions on the possible improvements. Also, your discussion should be logically structured. There are several types of text structures, so you need to decide which one will be the most suitable, considering the type of research you are conducting. How to Structure Your Discussion Section We can allocate two types of structures you can use to organize the discussion section – vertical and horizontal. Vertical structure of the text is comprised of information presented in a hierarchical manner, relating to general elements and more specific ones. The topic unfolds into subtopics, subcategories and separate arguments. You have to keep in mind, that from your point of view, the argument and facts are arranged in a descending manner, taking into consideration how you intend to communicate your thoughts, speculations and conclusions. On the other hand, your reader will perceive all information in an ascending manner, from more specific elements to the general understanding of your topic. The horizontal structure is formed by creating cohesion between your findings. This cohesion is achieved by means of language devices, such as conjunctions, references and omission of words or phrases that can be logically derived from a sentence. All facts, arguments and speculations should be presented consistently, using logical connectives and references. Which Type of Structure is Better There is no right or wrong, it just depends on your findings. The horizontal structure is especially relevant when you are conducting an interdisciplinary research. There is no hierarchy between independent disciplines, so you need a structure which will highlight the relations between facts that belong to different fields. Vertical structure employs the deductive approach to research. If you start proving your thesis statement from a generalization and build your way to a conclusion by analyzing separate element of the general notion, then a vertical structure is more suitable for you discussion section. Points to Consider Whichever structure you decide to choose, your discussion section should have a brief summary of the importance of your findings for the field you study. You can also give your opinion on possible directions for future research, but add only those, that could not be researched in this particular paper. If you give recommendations for further research, remember to avoid repeating your statements in the conclusion section of your research paper. There is no use in wasting space with repetitions, and it can give an impression that you were careless with your final edit of the paper. And finally, on account of the overall research paper, avoid using first person too much. It can distract the reader from the main point of the paper – research.

Ethical implications of leading in the healthcaare environment Essay

Ethical implications of leading in the healthcaare environment - Essay Example It is expected from all members of the organization to a show commitment towards these codes with the conduct of a professional particularly in the field of healthcare management. These codes can be viewed as a formulation of personal responsibility. The most identifiable significance being the mode of commitment that an individual possesses. In general, sense the code possesses all aspects of professional situation as both a human and a proficient member of the organization. It is obvious that an organization is formed with human aspects and for an organization to become ethical, it is important the human aspects be indulged into following the code. It is imperative that these codes of ethics would be subjective and open to individual interpretations but it should also be noted that in such incident these codes, phrases, or word of the codes would be judged upon individual approach of humane solution. (Zimmerman, 2002) In this respect of Ethics and Leadership qualities of an organization, it would be relevant to mention the emergence of Professional Care Organization (PCO, a newly established health care organization). Its very existence may be definitely seen as a paradigm shift. The clientele is the public in need of medical treatment. The organization employs a staff of 120 professionals (doctors, paramedics, assistants, nurses, health-care assistants, and maintenance staff). PCO intends to become the leading health-care services provider in its region. It also plans to alter the general conception for high medical care costs by implementing a society benefit program that will allow to significantly reducing the patients’ expenditures. The modern American health industry is going through a difficult period, one characterized by new concerns about rising health costs. The major concern that had directed medicine until that time was that Americans required more medical care—more than the marketplace would

Japanese Distribution System Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Japanese Distribution System - Essay Example Wholesalers - Intermediaries or middlemen who buy products from manufacturers and resell them to retailers. They take the same type of financial risk as retailers, since they purchase the products, keep them in inventory until they are resold to retailers, and may arrange for shipment to those retailers. Agents and/or brokers - Intermediaries who work between suppliers and retailers. They do not take ownership of the products they sell and are independent sales representatives who typically work on commission based on sales volume. They can sell to wholesalers as well as retailers. The Japanese distribution system accommodates the cultural and economic concerns of business establishments in Japan. This is such as business relationships are heralded as more important than implementing immediate and profitable business decisions that might trigger a strain in fulfilling social obligations to the participants in the distribution channels. Both Japanese and foreign observers, above all the United States, claimed that such intimate business relationships between an (in comparison to the United States) unusually high number of small players (both retail and wholesale establishments) not only formed a non-tariff barrier to foreign suppliers, but that such business relationships were protected... Agent or Broker Channel - This type of arrangement can include producers selling to agents, agents selling to wholesalers, who sell to retailers, who then sell to consumers. The Japanese distribution system accommodates the cultural and economic concerns of business establishments in Japan. This is such as business relationships are heralded as more important than implementing immediate and profitable business decisions that might trigger a strain in fulfilling social obligations to the participants in the distribution channels. Both Japanese and foreign observers, above all the United States, claimed that such intimate business relationships between an (in comparison to the United States) unusually high number of small players (both retail and wholesale establishments) not only formed a non-tariff barrier to foreign suppliers, but that such business relationships were protected by a legislation (the Large-Scale Retail Stores Law) that was in favor of small-scale establishments. The revision of the statute as demanded by the United States was therefore seen as hopeful solution to "modernize" the Japanese distribution system (less small-scale operations) and also pave the way for Japanese and foreign suppliers to enter the Japanese market. 1.1 The Japanese distribution system as barrier to trade When Japan surrendered to the American supremacy on August 15, 1945, the Japanese economy was in almost near collapse1 and Japan had to finally accept foreign occupation to their economy for the first time in its history. The occupation by the Allied Powers2 lasted over six years, obliviously more than double the originally envisaged three years.3 The Allied Powers had originally planned to contain Japan into a

Mass programming Essay Example for Free

Mass programming Essay PLDs are standard ICs, available in standard configurations. They are sold in high volume to many different customers. PLDs may be configured or programmed to create a part customized to a specific application. They have a single large block of programmable interconnect and consist of a matrix of logic macrocells that usually consists of programmable array logic followed by a flip-flop or latch. Types of PLDs are PROM, EPROM, PAL and PLA. PROM uses metal fuse that can be blown permanently. EPROM uses programmable MOS transistors whose characteristics are altering by applying a high voltage. PAL or Programmable Array Logic consists of a programmable AND logic array or AND plane, and fixed OR plane. PLA or Programmable Logic Array has a programmable AND plane followed by programmable OR plane. Based on type of programming PLDs may be classified as Erasable PLD (EPLD) and Mask-programmed PLD. It is characterized by customized mask layer and logic cells (Smith, 1997: 14). (Smith, 1997) Advantages Fast design turnaround. Disadvantages Mass programming is not possible. It is more complex than PLDs. A field programmable gate array is a VLSI circuit that can be programmed in the user’s location. A typical FPGA consists of an array of hundreds or thousands of logic blocks surrounded by programmable input and output blocks and connected together via programmable interconnections. There is a wide variety of internal configuration within these devices. The performance of each device depends on the circuit contained in their logic blocks and their efficiency of their programmed inter connections. Here none of mask layers are customized. There exists a method for programming basic cells and the interconnect. The core of FPGA is a regular array of combinational and sequential programmable basic logic cells. It has a matrix of programmable interconnect that surrounds the basic cells and programmable I/O cells around the core. A typical FPGA block consists of look up tables, multiplexers, gates and flipflops. The look up table is a truth table stored in a SRAM and provides a combinational circuit functions for the logic blocks. These functions are realized from the truth table stored in the SRAM (Smith, 1997: 16). (Smith, 1997) Advantages Design turnaround is a few hours The truth table can be re-programmable. Easy to layout on PCBs. Disadvantages The memory is volatile and presents the need for the look up table content to be reloaded when power is disrupted. Routing is easily blocked. The design requires extensive CAD tools to facilitate the synthesis procedure. FPGAs may be broadly classified as homogenous and heterogeneous FPGAs. As the name implies homogenous consists of only one type of logic cell and heterogeneous contains different types of logic cells. They can also be classified as Island type, Hierarchical and Row based FPGAs. Island Type FPGA It is common to Xilinx and Altera. Here, the logic blocks are arranged in a matrix form. They are interconnected by horizontal and vertical routing wires. The routing wires are connected using programmable routing switches. (Sharma, 2005) Hierarchical FPGAs It comprises of a tree based interconnect structure. The leaves represent logic blocks. Two types of connecting boxes are present. The hexagon shaped boxes represent non compressing switches (no. of root going tracks = twice the no. of incoming tracks) and the diamond shaped boxes represent compressing switches (no. of root going tracks = no. of incoming tracks).

Good Food Industry :: essays research papers

GOOD FOODS INCORPORATED   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Good Food, Incorporated (GFI) is a company founded on the belief that children can grow up healthier and live longer if they are fed a natural, nutritionally balanced diet starting earlier in life. GFI’s goal is to increase awareness of this link between diet and health.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Good Food Industry was a start up business with three principals presently involved in its development. GFI’s principals have researched and developed a line of unique children’s food products based on the holistic health concept. The holistic concept, which health food consumer determined was widely accepted among adult consumers of health foods, was new to child-care field. Hence GFI planned to take advantage of the opportunities for market development and penetration that its principals were confident exists. GFI also believed that the existing baby-food industry paid only cursory attention to providing high quality, nutrition products, and that the limited number of truly healthy and nutritious baby foods created a market void that GFI could successfully fill.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Market Research During its market research phase, GFI engaged â€Å"Vick Product Sales Research Corporation† as its marketing and advertising consulting company. Vick prepared reports on industry trends for the traditional children’s food industry and healthy food industry.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Vick’s market research showed that the United States was entering a â€Å"mini baby boom† that would increase the potential market base for its products. Health food products would approach the market place primarily through the health food stores and nature food centres in major supermarket chain stores, initially in the northwest and California. Acceptance of the GFI concept in these areas would enable The Company to expand to a national market. Market Definition   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  GFI planned to direct its efforts to the sale of its health care products through the health food retail outlets and natural food centres located within major supermarkets. Geographically, the company would initially direct its efforts in two key areas: Northeast, especially around New York City: and particularly in the Reno, Nevada and Sacramento, California area. Both areas had a high concentration of adult health food consumers who GFI had found, through market research and analysis, to be most receptive to health concepts for children. According to this market research the specific target markets that GFI would approach through these outlets were: †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Parents who were concerned about their health and their children’s health and who thus demand higher quality and more nutritionally lanced foods and products. †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Operators of child-care centres who provide meals to children. Good Food Industry :: essays research papers GOOD FOODS INCORPORATED   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Good Food, Incorporated (GFI) is a company founded on the belief that children can grow up healthier and live longer if they are fed a natural, nutritionally balanced diet starting earlier in life. GFI’s goal is to increase awareness of this link between diet and health.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Good Food Industry was a start up business with three principals presently involved in its development. GFI’s principals have researched and developed a line of unique children’s food products based on the holistic health concept. The holistic concept, which health food consumer determined was widely accepted among adult consumers of health foods, was new to child-care field. Hence GFI planned to take advantage of the opportunities for market development and penetration that its principals were confident exists. GFI also believed that the existing baby-food industry paid only cursory attention to providing high quality, nutrition products, and that the limited number of truly healthy and nutritious baby foods created a market void that GFI could successfully fill.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Market Research During its market research phase, GFI engaged â€Å"Vick Product Sales Research Corporation† as its marketing and advertising consulting company. Vick prepared reports on industry trends for the traditional children’s food industry and healthy food industry.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Vick’s market research showed that the United States was entering a â€Å"mini baby boom† that would increase the potential market base for its products. Health food products would approach the market place primarily through the health food stores and nature food centres in major supermarket chain stores, initially in the northwest and California. Acceptance of the GFI concept in these areas would enable The Company to expand to a national market. Market Definition   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  GFI planned to direct its efforts to the sale of its health care products through the health food retail outlets and natural food centres located within major supermarkets. Geographically, the company would initially direct its efforts in two key areas: Northeast, especially around New York City: and particularly in the Reno, Nevada and Sacramento, California area. Both areas had a high concentration of adult health food consumers who GFI had found, through market research and analysis, to be most receptive to health concepts for children. According to this market research the specific target markets that GFI would approach through these outlets were: †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Parents who were concerned about their health and their children’s health and who thus demand higher quality and more nutritionally lanced foods and products. †¢Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Operators of child-care centres who provide meals to children.

Logic in the East and the West

The article written by Nisbett in Chapter 7 of the book (please indicate the title of the whole book here) presents a clear idea of how logic exists differently in the East and the West. The discussion of the author presented various studies and various terms that have been used to support and weave together the different ideas. The author’s terms are worth defining for these will clarify some portions of the study. First, there are French words included in the title and one should translate this into English terms to get a better picture of the article. Ce n’est pas logique translated to English would be â€Å"it is not logical.† Weaving it back to the title, it would then be â€Å"’It is not logical’ or ‘You’ve got a point there’?† It is quite unsaid as to why the author used the language of French for the title. Second, the Latin phrase modus ponens also deserves some attention. In English, the term modes ponens is the method of affirming (â€Å"modus ponens and modus tollens†). Third, the word atypical would also be encountered and this is defined as â€Å"not conforming to the usual type or expected pattern† (â€Å"atypical†). It means the opposite of the typical argument. Going back to the topic of logic in the east and the west, the author posed several studies conducted before to support the current hypothesis that there is a difference in the existence of logic in the two regions. A study that was cited by the author was that of Ara Norenzayan, Edward E. Smith, Beom Jun Kim, and Nisbett, the author himself, showed that the insignificant interest for the study of logic in the East may be attributed to the â€Å"distrust of decontextualization†¦as well as a distaste for making inferences on the basis of underlying abstract propositions alone† (Nisbett 168). This was not proven by only one study made by the same authors but actually two studies they did. To further support the results of the study, the authors administered survey methods to respondents who are Korean, European American, and Asian American.   In addition to this, Ara Norenzayan and Beom Jun Kim made a presumption â€Å"that East Asians would be less likely to have their beliefs moved in an unpleasant direction by pondering information that implied some desired outcomes† (Nisbett 172). To do this, they administered questionnaires to Korean and American respondents containing propositions. The result was that the Americans continued towards the negative ones and the Koreans avoided this (Nisbett 173). The author used propositions and discussed it according to the logic that may be applied to it. For example, the deductive arguments â€Å"All birds have ulnar arteries, therefore all eagles have ulnar arteries† and â€Å"All birds have ulnar arteries, therefore all penguins have ulnar arteries† which the author used to show the persuasiveness of typical and atypical arguments for the different respondents (Nisbett 168-9). It was stated by the author that there is a difference on how convinced the Koreans are to typical arguments than atypical arguments compared to the European American and Asian American. The atypical argument for the previous deductive argument is the latter for penguins are not typically seen as birds. Works Cited â€Å"atypical.† Encarta Dictionaries. DVD. Redmond, WA: Microsoft, 2006. â€Å"modus ponens and modus tollens.† Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica. 2008. Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica Online. 23 Mar. 2008   . Nisbett, Richard. The Geography of Thought: How Asians and Westerners Think Differently†¦and Why. New York: The Free Press, 2003.

Cultural Influences on Rite of Passage B

Cultural Influences on Rite of Passage Beliefs and Rituals Cultures throughout the world honor the passing from childhood into adulthood with special celebrations and rituals that coincide with religious or social traditions. World civilizations pay homage to this rite of passage differently, ranging from jovial and lighthearted galas to the barbaric rituals frequently associated with remote African tribes. There are also other sects of the population where their youth enter a transitional phase that lasts from months or years, such as the Amish and the Aborigines.Their youth use this time as a period of learning to think and act as adults and for decision making about their future. Amish or plain people as they are also known migrated from Europe in search of religious freedom. They were originally part of the Mennonite religion and follow many of the same practices today. They are governed by the unwritten rules known as the Ordnung. They live by principles of simplicity, reject ar rogance, embrace humility and socialize only within their community and avoid other parts of society as much as possible.Amish children only attend school until they complete 8th grade and higher education is discouraged or forbidden. At the age of sixteen, Amish teens are given the choice of participating in Rumspringa, a German term that translates into run around in English. During this time Amish adolescents are free to explore life among modern American society. It is believed that at this age that they have reached a maturity level where they can act responsibly as well as having the skills for making rational informed decisions.This time of reflection is for the youths to decide if they want to remain in modern society or return to the Amish community where they are baptized as adults and are expected to follow the church for the rest of their lives without question. Wargny 2 Rumspringa is also a catalyst for Amish teens to socialize and meet prospective marriage partners. Th ey congregate with other young men and women of Amish faith, experiment with alcohol, drugs, premarital sex, automobiles, cell phones, and video games. (Welcome to Lancaster County)Studies of rumspringa have concluded that approximately 85% of teens willingly return to Amish life and forfeit all conveniences of technology and English ways of life. The small percentage of those choosing to remain in modern society, do so with the understanding that they are shunned by all Amish people including their immediate family. There is no further contact or connection to their past and must live the rest of their lives as though they were strangers or non-existent to everyone they ever knew.The Australian Aborigine tribes are believed to have migrated from Asia more than 20,000 years ago and are native to the barren outback land of Australia. In ancient aboriginal culture, the rite of passage into manhood started at age 12 with a series of ceremonies and rituals held over a course of a few ye ars. The Alkira Kiumi as it is called, started at age 12, and involved the boy being repeatedly tossed into the air and caught by their male relatives of the tribe. Next was the circumcision procedure, which took place by a fire ring.The chief of the tribe sat on the boy’s chest and cut the foreskin of the penis off with a sharp stone or knife. The boy was given a boomerang to bite on for the pain. After the circumcision, the boy was made to kneel close to the fire so that the smoke would rise up and purify the wound and then the elders of the tribe fed the young man his severed foreskin to symbolize the devouring of boyhood. Wargny 3 Months after the initial circumcision, a fireside sub incision ceremony was held. A stick was inserted into the urethra to brace the knife as it cut from the urethra to the scrotum.The boy then rose and allowed his blood to drip into the flames of the fire. The second circumcision made it necessary for the boy to thereafter assume a squatting po sition in order to urinate. Anthropologists theorize that this ritual was performed so that young males would better understand and sympathize with a females’ menstrual cycle. After the circumcisions came a ceremony in which a chisel was used to knock out the front tooth of the young man as it was believed it made him more physically attractive. The next step toward manhood was to serve as a test of his courage by having him walk barefoot across a bed of fire.The final phase of the rite of passage into manhood was known as a walkabout and is also noted as a time for dreaming hence the name Dreamtime. â€Å" According to Aboriginal belief, all life as it is today is part of one vast unchanging network of relationships which can be traced to the Great Ancestors of the Dreamtime† (Rose Marina) It involved young men leaving the safety of their childhood homes to roam about in the barren desert to live on their own for a period of up to 6 months. During the walkabout; the t een boys were only permitted to rely only on nature and the spiritual guidance of their ancestors for their survival.As they roamed through the uncivilized land it was believed that if they followed the guidance of the spirits they would return to their tribes safely and would from then on be considered men. And if they succumbed to the deserts elements, then it was believed that they failed the test of manhood and died shamefully as a boy. Wargny 4 Due to contact with the modern world, the ancient rituals of the aborigine tribes have disappeared or have been replaced by more civil ceremonies that merely symbolize the original rite of passage practices for becoming a man.As validation for becoming an adult, Rumspringa and Alkira Kiumi differ vastly. Rumspringa offers the opportunity to live carefree and seductively in what the Amish refer to as The â€Å"devil’s playground† without reprisal upon their return. Alkira Kiumi was a painful and grueling experience that serv ed to prove a boy’s loyalty and faith in his heritage. Despite the overwhelming differences in these rites of passage, the completion of either of these ritualistic practices indicates a true allegiance to their respective religions and as paying homage to their ancestry.

Life Experiences and My Career of Choice essays

Life Experiences and My Career of Choice essays When my parents first came from India 30 years ago, my family shared a one-bedroom house with my aunt, uncle and their three children. Growing up while living in a small house in Daly City, CA with nine other family members, I learned very early in life the necessity of working with others. I grew up in a value system of hard work, team effort, and cooperation. These life lessons are some of the reasons I believe that a career in radiation oncology is right for me; it's a field where collaboration with other specialties is very important to the patients care. As a future radiation oncologist, I look forward to being a part of an integrated oncology team which will determine the best treatment options for a particular cancer patient. The specialty will give me exposure to oncology, physics, and medical biology. The field offers a nice combination of clinical work, treatment planning, and procedures such as brachytherapy. It is a part of medicine which has constantly advanced techno logy and an unmeasured potential to treat many different diseases with radiation therapy. But above all, I look forward to working with cancer patients and improving their lives by either curing their disease or providing palliation. My desire to improve peoples lives guided me to establish the first national South Asian community service fraternity, Delta Phi Beta, during undergraduate at U.C. Berkeley. As a founding member, I would help organize activities such as fundraising for earthquake relief to India and volunteering at local soup kitchens. I have continued to make time during medical school to assist underserved people. I evaluated and treated patients at the volunteer-run Clinica Tepati. Also, it was real pleasure for a group of my friends and I to help renovate the home of an underprivileged family in East Palo Alto through Christmas in April. I organized and coordinated the vaccination booth at the first Ulezi Childrens...

How to Publish a Book a Comprehensive Guide - Freewrite Store

How to Publish a Book a Comprehensive Guide - Freewrite Store Before you start Congratulations – you did it! You wrote a book (if you haven't yet, check out this article with 10 steps to follow). Pat yourself on the back and take a few moments to acknowledge what you’ve achieved. Okay, what next? Writing your book is just the first step in your journey to becoming a published author. It’s a journey that ends with your book in the hands (or on the device) of your audience – your readers.   Publishing has come a long way in recent years, with more options available to authors than ever before. You can choose to go down the traditional route with a publishing house, or you can self-publish your book in printed or electronic form (or both). Both processes have pros and cons, and both can be extremely successful when they’re done the right way. Whether you’ve already decided which path to take, or you’re still trying to make up your mind, here’s a helpful guide on how to publish your book. Keep reading: 10 Writing Submission Strategies to Get You Published Before you start You’re probably raring to get your book out there, but before you release it into the wild, it’s important to get it reviewed. Firstly, it’s a good idea to give it to a couple of ‘beta readers’ who are willing to give you honest, constructive feedback. They will be able to help you identify if there are any gaping holes in your plot or parts of the story that don’t make sense. Keep reading: Story vs. Plot Once you’re sure your narrative is solid, it’s helpful to engage a good copy editor to weed out any bad spelling, grammar, awkward sentence structure, and offensive terms or jargon. If you can’t afford a full copy edit, a thorough proofread is the next best option. You can find editors and proofreaders at reasonable rates on e-lancing sites like Fiverr, Upworkand Freelancer. Of course, you can edit your own work, too, but don’t underestimate the advantage that comes with a fresh pair of eyes. Keep reading: 3 Ways to Expedite Your Editing Process How to prepare your manuscript Whichever method of publishing you decide to pursue, the first thing you need to do is prepare your manuscript to the correct standards. Criteria will differ depending on the publishing method and the individual publisher’s requirements. Most publishers list them on their website, and it’s important to follow their instructions carefully if you want them to look at your book. For traditional books, most publishers like you to set your manuscript up on an A4 document with 3cm margins using left-aligned 12-point Times New Roman text. Use a single space between sentences and double-space your lines with no extra lines between paragraphs. Begin each chapter on a new page and indent each paragraph or section of dialogue. Make sure each page is numbered, and your title and your name are in the header. Don’t forget to include a title page with the name of your story, the word count, and your contact details. How to get an agent A lot of traditional publishing houses don’t accept unsolicited manuscripts, so it’s a good idea to get yourself a literary agent to handle that side of things for you. Google literary agencies in your area and check if they have any agents who are open to submissions and have an interest in your genre. Once you find someone who seems like a good match, you’ll need to prepare your submission to send to them. Often the agency will have guidelines on their website detailing what they want from you, but if not, it’s safe to assume they will accept a query letter, a synopsis, and the first three chapters of your book. Your query letter should be a one-page, clearly written letter that introduces you and your book. Describe why you’d like to work with that agent, include your book’s premise and word count, and finish with a sentence or two about yourself. Your synopsis should be around 500 words that summarise the plot of your book and the emotional journey of your characters in straightforward language. It’s a description – not a sales pitch. Start by sending your submission to between ten and fifteen agents and be open to their feedback, both positive and negative, when they respond. If you get very few responses, you may need to review your story to see why it’s not hooking people in. However, don’t give up after the first few rejections. Literary agents turn down submissions for a huge number of reasons, including being too busy or having lots of other similar submissions. If you’re getting warm, encouraging feedback with their rejections, then keep trying! Once you’ve secured an agent, it’s their job to sell your manuscript to a publisher. If your agent is successful, the publisher will buy the rights to market your book. Normally, you’ll receive an upfront payment (although it may not be large) and a proportion of the royalties from sales. The publisher will then handle the production and marketing of your book, and, all going well, you’ll see it in bookstores and may receive some written reviews. The great part about traditional publishing is that once you’ve sold your book to the publisher, they do all the hard work getting it to market. The downside is that you hand over control of your work to a third party, and they take a significant share of the profits. How to self-publish your book Self-publishing has become increasingly popular as online platforms like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing have made it easier than ever to sell your work to a global audience with little to no investment up-front. If you write in a genre or format that doesn’t typically generate much interest in traditional publishing circles, you want speed to market, or you just prefer the concept of being in control of every aspect of your publishing career, then self-publishing could be the best option for you. Just like traditional publishing, you’ll need to get your manuscript into tip-top shape before you unleash it upon the world. Getting your book edited properly is especially important in the self-publishing arena because you won’t have a publishing house’s own editors reviewing it before it’s released, as you would if you went down the traditional publishing route. You’ll also need to get a cover designed. If you’re selling through large platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing or Barnes Noble Press, your cover thumbnail will be competing with dozens of others on the same page, so it needs to stand out and entice the reader to click on it. Unless you’ve got good graphic design skills, it’s worth paying a designer to create an eye-catching cover that will do your book justice. If you opt to do it yourself using a design app like Canva, make sure you use royalty-free images (or purchase the correct rights for the use of the stock image you choose). Next, you’ll need to write a great description of your book that sells your story and hooks the reader in. Your description should be around 600 words, and it’s essential that it be completely error-free. Nothing puts off a prospective reader faster than typos in the book description. Take some time to research the different e-book publishing options available to you and decide which one suits you best. Typically, e-book publishers won’t charge you to upload your book but will take a small percentage of your sales to cover the service that they’re providing to you. Some publishers also offer a print-on-demand service whereby your reader can order a hard copy, which will be printed at the time they order it, and the purchase price will cover the printing costs plus your profit. Some companies also offer you the ability to print your book in bulk, at cost, so that you can supply copies to local bookstores. Once you’ve selected which company you will use to publish your book, research their requirements for formatting your manuscript for upload. Some companies, like Amazon, provide an app that does it for you, while others require a bit more manual input. A cleanly laid out Word document is a good place to start and is compatible with most platforms. Before you upload your book, you’ll need to decide what metadata you will tag it with. Metadata are things like your book title, subtitle, author name, book description, and the categories and keywords with which you will tag your work, to will help people find your book when they search for a specific genre or topic. Check what your chosen platform’s metadata requirements are so you are well-prepared with optimal choices when the time comes to upload your book to their system. Once your self-published book is uploaded and ready for people to buy, it’s time to shout about it from the rooftops. Create yourself an online presence where you can engage with your audience – Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts are great places to start, and all can be set up for free. You can even create yourself a free website using services like Wix, Weeblyor WordPress, which have professional-looking built-in templates and easy-to-use interfaces. If you have a marketing budget, Facebook offers you a low-cost way of sending targeted ads to other users. What is vanity publishing and why should I avoid it? Vanity publishing (aka vanity press or subsidy publishing) is a form of self-publishing where the publisher asks you to pay them an up-front fee to get your book printed. The fee covers their production costs, plus a profit margin. Typically, they’ll accept any manuscript, regardless of quality, and will put in little to no effort to market your book, because they’ve already made their money. It’s unlikely your vanity-published book will ever make it into a bookstore, and you will struggle to recoup your investment. Many authors have lost thousands of dollars on vanity publishing. Remember, legitimate publishers will never ask you for money. They’ll only accept your book if they think that it’s great and they can market it. Then they’ll shoulder all the financial risk of getting it published. It’s in their best interests for your book to do well, because if it doesn’t sell, they don’t make their money back. In short, if you are approached by a publisher who invites you to submit your manuscript, asks you to pay them, and is vague about what they will deliver - don’t reply. It’s almost guaranteed to be a scam. So, now you know the next steps, and the traps to avoid, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get your book published!    About the author: Claire Wilkins is a freelance copywriter and editor from New Zealand. She loves to write about travel, health, home, and proper punctuation. After a career in financial services spanning almost three decades, Claire left the corporate world behind to start Unmistakable - her writing and editing business. She creates website copy, blogs, and newsletters for creative agencies and small businesses, and specialises in polishing existing content until it shines. In her spare time, Claire enjoys cloud-spotting, singing in the car and editing video.

English Language in UAE Universities Research Paper

English Language in UAE Universities - Research Paper Example The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a federation of seven Arab Emirates, is no exempt from the far-reaching influence of the English language. Despite the fact that the UAE recognizes Arabic as the official language, the region uses English as the Lingua Franca. This implies that English serves as the working and unifying the g language in the UAE. Virtually every job in the region requires some English speaking abilities. Further, for the advancement of education beyond junior level, Emiratis are expected to be fluent in English. However, critics insist that mandatory use of English as an instructional language in higher education is gradually eroding the quality of Arabic and undermining the cultural identity of Arab students. It is imperative to note that the UAE holds a high rank among global nations, in terms of higher education applications and enrollment. This could partly be attributed to the fact that the UAE government funds university education and many have come to perceive t his as a right for every Emirati. Most of the instructors in these institutions of higher learning are foreigners, emphasizing the need for a common language. UAE higher education is primarily based on four policy provisions; one among them being predominant use of English as an instruction language (Findlow, 2006). In support of the UAE government’s policy of English instruction in universities, the UAE Ministry of Higher Education places emphasis on specific university admission standards. This ministry with the help of the UAE Ministry of Education, which governs lower education levels, set specific language objectives for schooling in the country (Findlow, 2006). For instance, if a student wants to enroll in a federal institution of higher education, he or she must take a test that measures their proficiency in the English language. Students who score below the stipulated minimal level are usually denied admission even to English-language curricula at the pre-baccalaureat e level. This further implies that the students cannot join any of the three UAE federal universities. More than 90 percent of the accepted students must undergo remedial English training before being allowed to commence studies in their respective degree programs. These standards must be altered slightly to become a bit lenient and avoid denying students the opportunity to further their studies. For example, English learning programs can be increased at primary and secondary levels, but still run concurrently with Arabic lessons. This would give students a higher chance of passing the preliminary university admission exams. Close to a third of government universities’ budgets are used to support Basic English courses after the admission of students. These pre-entry English foundation programs are usually blamed for excessive utilization of resources that would otherwise be distributed throughout the education chain. These programs also waste significant time, since undergrad uates end up taking five or six years to complete their degrees.

Application of TQM principles in manufacturing, Term Paper

Application of TQM principles in manufacturing, - Term Paper Example Introduction Quality assumes a multidimensional facet of business outcomes and activities. Various meanings attached to quality include conformance to specifications, performance, reliability, promptness, consistency, meeting customer expectations, hygiene etc. Organizations attach one or more of these attributes to their meaning of quality and thus strive towards achievement of all through Total Quality Management (TQM). TQM has been viewed in many ways by different scholars. A comprehensive definition would include what Hellesten and Klefsjo (2000) had used to describe TQM as, ‘a management system consisting of core values, techniques, and tools with the aim of increasing external and internal customers’ satisfaction with reduced resources. It aims at establishing a culture based on core values, and choose techniques, which support the values and tools suitable for the chosen techniques (as cited in Fredriksson, 2003; p.226). An evaluation of total quality management t hrough operations management strategies in manufacturing, service and nonprofit industrial sectors will be presented along with a general and critical review of these practices. Background: In the manufacturing sector, TQM concept was, in fact, revolutionized by the giant automotive company, Toyota, which was originally a Japanese native but currently a multinational setup. Daft (2008) candidly states, â€Å"Toyota is a model what happens when a company makes a strong commitment to total quality management,† (p.468). Although TQM was a concept that originated in the United States, its popularity and promising philosophy was grounded in quality management only after Toyota displayed its success from Japan. This was accomplished through steady performance over the years unlike other automotives of the West that ruled the market for short time; yet, Toyota’s success still remains, and is attributed to its TQM principles. Significance of Toyota’s way of working was realized by the rest of the world during 1990s through its highly efficient and fast design systems, most reliable and cost-efficient products and highly paid labor (Liker, 2004). Liker (2004) asserts that Toyota’s way of operations management, popularly referred to as the Toyota Production System, is a result of its quality management that goes beyond one’s belief along with congruent culture, referred to as the Toyota Way. A well-known service firm that attributes its success to TQM philosophy is Starbucks, the coffee shop that promises a delightful experience to its customers. Starbucks was started in 1971 at Pike Place Market, Seattle. More often, the name of this famous coffee place is accompanied by Howard Schultz, the salesperson that was instrumental in Starbucks’ immense success and later assumed the role of Starbucks’ CEO and Chairperson. Starbucks has recorded steady growth in the field of food and beverage industry during last 3 decades throug h its fierce competition, unmatched quality, delightful customer experience, cost-oriented operational strategies and the best human resources management practices. Starbucks is often quoted for its Total Quality Management practices and has been an example for many other entrepreneurial initiatives. Pahl (2009) highlights, â€Å"from a single store in Seattle, Starbucks has grown to operate more than 15000 stores across the world and employs more than 172,000

Philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 34

Philosophy - Essay Example He believed that it was up to every person to contemplate and search into his soul to find out who he or she was. Except for very rare instances cited by a few historians, he hardly ever worked. He also never wrote. He prided himself on the questions he asked. Even this is not entirely true. He didn’t pride himself on anything. He never offered answers. One of his most famous sayings is:†I know that I know nothing.† This is a whole complex issue known as the â€Å"Socratic Problem.† Socrates was extremely cynical and many of his sayings were paradoxical because they contradicted common sense. Some of these are: â€Å"No one desires evil.† "No one errs or does wrong willingly or knowingly." "Virtue—all virtue—is knowledge." "Virtue is sufficient for happiness." "I know that I know nothing noble and good† (Irwin, 64). But by far his most famous saying is â€Å"I only know that I know nothing.† Plato wrote a series entitled Socratic Dialogues (The Republic, Apology of Socrates, etc.) in which he presented discussions between Socrates and other contemporary philosophers and between Socrates and his many students. As the only source of Socrates’ philosophical beliefs is Plato’s writings, it is difficult to distinguish those of Socrates’ beliefs from those of Plato. There are those who believe that Plato did, in fact, have his own philosophical orientation. There is controversy among scholars over what these were because of the difficulty of separating Socrates from Plato in Plato’s dialogues. Consequently, distinguishing the philosophical beliefs of Socrates from those of Plato and Xenophon is not easy and it must be remembered that what is attributed to Socrates might more closely reflect the specific concerns of these thinkers. The matter is complicated because the historical Socrates seems to have been notorious for asking questions but not answering them, claiming to lack wisdom concerning the subjects

Visual Culture Studies

Visual Culture Studies Visual Culture is everything that is seen, that is produced to be seen, and the way in which it is seen and understood. Representation is the way a person interprets symbols and images of a culture and the way these images explain why the world is the way it is . The Visual Culture approach acknowledges the reality of living in a modern world . Since childhood, a person’s brain uses representation of images into meanings to make sense of their world. For an example , It is that part of culture that communicates through visual means . If some special moment didn’t capture in your camera, you can digitally manipulate it on your computer. The queues are longer for the virtual reality at New York’s State Building . This virtual city will be joined shortly by Paris Las Vegas , copying the carefully manipulated image of the city of light. Life in this alter reality world is some times looks more pleasant than the real things, some time contrary to this. Way back in 197 9 same sex marriage was opposed by the united States Congress but later when the sitcom character Ellen shown on television , millions of people liked it. On the other hand , virtual reality has long been favoured by the armed forces as a training arena, bring it into practice in Gulf war at a huge cost of human life. This is known as visual culture. It is not just a part of your everyday life, it is your everyday life.. Pictorial presentation is an impactful way forward communication for observing the new visuality in the culture.   Nearly every form of visual media a person comes into contact with a photograph, which is undisputable evidence of an event. There is the myth of photographic truth, which means that photographs are subjective, yet can be manipulated and taken in different contexts. For an example the photographs taken by Nazi’s during the holocaust. The photographs denote that Nazis killed millions of people, but the photographs may also take on many connotative meanings of the two connotative meanings mentioned with the Nazi pictures they each hold different ideologies; ideas that form a culture. The ideas of ideology are usually taken in as the views of most of the population of a given culture, therefore ideologies define cultures. An American ideology is the belief in independent freedom while a communist ideology is communal sharing. How are these ideologies passed on in a culture? They start off in schools and places that people gather. Malls are filled with advertisements. There are ads that symbolize skinny brunettes wearing Chanel as the perfect woman, which is what most men and women tend to take as truth. Then there are ads to enlist people into the army, which give a message of a strong country run by individuals. The idea of interpretation is that people are made up of the different ideologies with which they come in contact with through out their lives. In this case a person might enlist in the army to be a part of a strong country while another might buy a Chanel dress to look like the woman in the ad. This newly visual existence may be confusing. For example the new visuality of culture is not the same as understanding it . Indeed the gap between the wealth of visual experience in contemporary cult ure the ability to analyse that observation marks either of the opportunities and the need for visual culture as a field of study. People get crazy to visuals of a skinny brunette wearing the Chanel clothes, rather than a overweight lady with red hair. This can be explained through psychoanalytic theory. It implies that people get feelings out of images because they tend to bond with them. In the case of the advertisements , a person might have been brought up in a culture that implies that skinny brunettes are the pretties of all. At a young age that person accepted that idea as true and holds it to this day, ending up buying a Chanel dress just because the lady in the ad is a skinny brunette. Visual culture is concerned with visual events in which information, meaning or pleasure is sought by the stakeholder in an interface with visual technology. I mean any form of apparatus designed either to be looked at or to enhance the natural vision , from oil painting to television the internet. Postmodernism has been defined as the crisis of modernism , that is to say wide ranging complex of ideas and modes of representation ranging from over arching beliefs in progress to theories of the rise of abstract printing . Now these means of representation is no long seems to be convincing until unless any alternative having emerged. The post modernisation is the crisis called by modernisation and modern culture confronting the failure of its own strategy of visualising . Also, we can say it is the visual crisis of the culture creates post modernity, not its textuality . While print culture is certainly not going to disappear, the fascination with the visual and its effect that was a key feature of modernism has endangered a postmodern culture that is at its most post modern when it is visual. The globalization of the visuals taken together demands new means of interpretation. At the same time , the transformation of the postmodern also requires rewriting of historical explanations of modernism in order to account for visual turn. We feel human experience is now more visual impressive. In many ways , people in industrialized post – industrialized societies now live in visual culture to an extent that seems to divide present from the past. Popular journalism constantly remarks on digital imagery in films, the advent of post photography and developments in medical imaging , not to mention the endless tide of comment devoted to the internet . It is evident post modernism is visual culture. Despite the vast range of alternatives , visual culture is a tactic to which to study the genealogy, definitions functions of post modern everyday life. The fragmented culture that we call postmodernism is best imagined and understood visually, just as the nineteenth century was classically represented in the news papers novel. Western culture has consistently privileged the spoken word as the highest form of intellectual practice and seen visual representation is secondly rated examples of ideas. Western philosophy now use a pictorial , rather than textual , model of the world , marking a significant challenges to the notion of the world as a written text that dominated so much intellectual discussion in the wake of such linguistic based movements as structuralism and post structuralism . While those working on with visual media might find such remarks rather patronizing , they are the measure of the extent to which even literary studies have been forced to conclude that the world as a text has been challenged by the world a picture. Such world pictures can not be purely visual, but by the same token , the visual disrupts and challenges any attempts to define culture in completely linguistic terms. Visual culture has a history that needs exploring and defining in the modern as well as post modern period. Many current uses of the term have suffered from vagueness that makes it little more than a buzzword. For some critics , visual culture is simply ‘the history of images’. Visual culture is used in a far more interactive senses , concentrating on the determining role of visual culture in the wider culture to which it belongs. Such a history of visual culture is debated , contested transformed as constantly challenging place of social interaction definition in terms of class, gender sexual identities. One critic in communication studies had made a point that this work entails ‘greater level of uncertainty risk ‘ than have often been used until now. As visual culture is still an idea in the making , rather than a well- defined existing field , this aims to help in its definition of visual culture rather than present it as a given. Visualising the things which are not in themselves visual is one of the most striking features of the new visual culture. A world picture doesn’t mean the picture of the world but the world perceived, conceived grasped as a picture. The world picture does not change from an earlier medieval one into a modern one, but rather the world becomes picture at all is what distinguishes the essence of the modern age. Visual culture doesn’t not depends on pictures but on this modern tendency to picture or visualise existence. One of the important objective of visual culture is to understand how these complex pictures come together. It direct our attention away from structured , formal viewing settings , like cinema to the centrality of visual feelings in everyday life. At present different notions of viewing are within between all the various visual sub disciplines. Of course, it does make a sense to differentiate . Our attitude varies whether we go to see movie , attend any art exhibition or see television. Most important thing to note here is our visual experience take place aside from these formally structured moments of looking. Just as cultural studies has sought to understand the ways in which people interpreting the meaning from the stock of mass culture , so does the visual culture prioritize everyday feel of the visual from the snapshot to TV and even the blockbuster art exhibition. Visual culture is a necessarily historical subject , based on the recognition that the visual image is not stable but change its relationship to exterior reality at particular moments of modernity. Perspective system , for example, depends upon the viewer examining the image from one point only, using just one eye. No one actually does this , but the image is internally coherent and thus credible. A photograph necessarily shows us something that was at a certain point actually before the camera’s lens. This image is dialectical because it setup a relationship between the viewer in the present and in the past moment of space or time that it represents . Film or photographic image no longer reflects reality because everybody knows it can be manipulated by computers. Real time prevailing over real space , virtually dominating turning concept of reality on its head . If we recollect the film produced by ‘smart’ bombs which were used in Gulf war , showed targets being destroyed , only for it later to emerge that they missed as often as any other bomb. These virtualities of the post modern image constantly seem to elude our grasp, creating a crisis of the visual that is more than a specialized problem for the traditional visual disciplines. The concept of world picture is no longer adequate to analyse the changed and changing situation . Visual culture seek to find ways to work within this new (virtual) reality to find the points of resistance in the crisis of information and visual fever ( overload) in everyday life. It can also be argued that in modern warfare tactics ( i.e. imitation, manipulation simulation ) are necessary to defeat the enemy win the war. So , we can now see the collapse of reality in everyday life from the mass visual media. One photograph alone no longer shows the truth. Similarly, some of the most followed television series bear no resemblance to reality at all. But the visual is not simply the medium of information and mass culture. Its offers sensual immediacy that can’t be rivalled by print media. The very element that makes visual imagery of all kinds distinct from texts. For better understanding of visual culture let us give this feeling a name – the sublime. The sublime is the pleasurable experience in representation of that which would be painful in reality, going forward to realization of limits of the human powers of nature. The sublime was first theorized in antiquity by Longinus, who described how is our soul is uplifted by the true sublimes; it takes a proud flight and is filled with joy and vaunting, as though it has itself produced what it had heard. The sublime was given renewed importance by enlightenment philosopher Immanuel Kant, who called it ‘ a satisfaction mixed with horror’. Kant contrasted the sublime with the beautiful, seeing the former as a more complex and profound emotion leading a person with taste for the sublime to detest all chains from the gilded variety worn at court to the irons weighing down the galley slave. The study of Visual Culture can include anything from Painting, Sculpture, Installation, Video art, Digital art, Photography, Film, Television, The Internet, Mobile screenic devices, Fashion, Medical scientific imaging, Social spaces of museums, galleries, exhibitions, and other private and public environments of the everyday. Visual Culture Studies involves an analysis of contemporary culture, media and society It important to understand how societies construct their visual perspectives through knowledge, beliefs, art, morals, laws, and customs, amongst other things. All images are produced within dynamics of social power and ideology. Ideology is the shared set of values and belief which individuals live out their complex relations to a range of social structures. Ideologies often appear to be natural or given aspects of everyday life. The future of visual culture in everyday life is deep rooted like development of internet high definition TV , make clear that visualizing is here to stay. On the other side , there are those who have dedicated themselves to ensuring that visual culture is eradicated as a field of study. Casting visual culture in this light places it in the role of the underdog, which can be course be a very privileged in academic field. So the example of the institutionalisation of cultural studies in the United states is perhaps the best place to look for lessons for the fledging interdisciplinary. Analyzing visual culture is a useful tool in understanding more about the world in which we live in. One may see things in different aspect or an image might take upon new meaning, once its meaning is analyzed and truly understood. Through the process of representation, psychoanalytic theory, and photographic truth, one may find a whole new world in the very one that they live. Visual Culture studies provide us with the ability to analyse the visualà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹

Marginality and Othering in Metalious’ Peyton Place Essay -- Peyton Pl

Marginality and Othering in Metalious’Peyton Place Metalious’ best known novel, Peyton Place, was a bestseller and a media phenomenon in the mid-1950s and 1960s, creating a stir because of its depictions of teenage sexuality, incest, and illegal abortion. Surprisingly, however, few close examinations of the novel’s content and style have been published by literary critics. This essay provides a discussion of a key concern in the novel: racial, ethnic, geographical, and sexual marginality. Written to challenge the inscription of white, middle class, nuclear family life as the standard by which difference should be measured, Peyton Place features several characters who inhabit the metaphorical margins of American society, including Samuel Peyton, an escaped slave and the founder of the town; Tomoas Makris, a mysteriously handsome Greek school principal with several resemblances to George Metalious; and Selena Cross, a dark-skinned, beautiful young woman describes as a â€Å"gypsy,† whose life ties in to the incest and abortion subplots within the novel. I will provide a working definition of marginality and â€Å"othering† to begin this essay, followed by a discussion of Metalious’ social status as a French Canadian in New Hampshire, a description of the characterizations of Samuel Peyton and Selena Cross, and a final word on realism, reception, and the novel’s legacy. Marginality and â€Å"othering† are terms that have a long history in literary and critical discourse of the 20th century. In cultural criticism of the last three decades, these terms have been used to describe differences in power among individuals, nations, and cultural forms. In Orientalism, for instance, Edward Said invokes this idea of marg... ...ched understanding of the novel’s legacy. The unique and provocative treatments of marginality and othering in Peyton Place illustrate conflicts and anxieties that remain unresolved in 21st century American culture. Works Cited Mussell, Kay. Fantasy and Reconciliation: Contemporary Formulas of Women’s Romance Fiction. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1984. Said, Edward. Orientalism. New York: Vintage Books, 1979. Sorrell, Richard S. â€Å"A Novelist and Her Ethnicity: Grace Metalious as a Franco-American,† Historical New Hampshire, Fall 1980: 284-327. Stearns, Jane and Michael Stearns. â€Å"Peyton Place.† Encyclopedia of Popular Culture. New York: Harper, 1992: 381-383. Toth, Emily. Inside Peyton Place: The Life of Grace Metalious. Jackson: University Press of Mississippi, 2001. â€Å"Unpopular Best Seller.† Life, November 12, 1956: 104.

Importance of Deductive Reasoning Essay

It is very important to understand what is known prior to making a decision. All facts need to be reviewed, wrote out, and reviewed again. By doing this it will help you in making your decision accurately. For example, the DQ question we had this week, I reviewed all facts, wrote them down, and went to figure out the solution by reviewing the facts step-by-step. After I done this, then I went over everything again, and had the same solution, that there could be more than one advisor. I then submitted my answer. After doing this, I saw that another classmate had a different solution than mine so, I went back to review all the facts again, I could then see that my solution was accurate, and so was my classmates. This activity was very interesting, because there could several different solutions. If I had reviewed only part of the facts, or not used critical thinking, then I would have definitely made the wrong decision. The role of deductive reasoning in the decision- making process is a very important one. If you do not understand all the information that you are given, or if you just understand part of the information that you are given, than you will more than likely to make the wrong decision. This is why you should make sure that you understand all the information & facts that you are given, and think critically on all information so you can make an accurate decision. If you take the time to review, understand all of the facts that you are given this will help you in the decision making process. Deductive reasoning, and decision making is both part of the thinking process, when using them to together you this will aid you in making the right decision. Deductive reasoning is a method that helps you in gaining knowledge, which is a very important component in the decision making process. The process of deductive reasoning aids in understanding an argument by helping you to clearly understand all of the facts. When you deductive reason, you are thinking critically which will assist you in understanding the argument, and will also assist in making the right final decision. When reading the 5 arguments that were given, as I was reading I was critically thinking on each fact or bit of information given. For example, on buying a car if any information was left out, you could see yourself leaning to agree with Sally but, then seeing Mark’s point of view, his old car is fine for now, he hates to go on debt with the knowledge that Sally is pregnant. But, then Sally wants a safe, reliable, dependable vehicle for the children. If the fact that Sally was pregnant were not stated then that would change the whole decision- making process. This is why it is important to have, and understand all facts to help assist you in the decision-making process.

Black History Month Essay

Since 1976 Black History Month has been a remembrance of the events in the history of the African American movement. It is celebrated annually in the United States and Canada in the month of February, and the United Kingdom in the month of October. In the U.S., Black History Month is also referred to as African-American History Month. Black History Month actually started as Negro History Week in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson. The goal of Black History Week was to educate the American people about African-Americans’ cultural backgrounds and reputable achievements. Mr. Woodson believed that black history was a missing segment in the minds of most American Historians of his day. Black History Month has certainly played a key role in establishing African American history as a historically significant part of American History. You may be thinking to yourself, it is no longer a missing segment in the minds of most Americans, so therefore it is not relevant by today’s standards. Nothing could be further from the truth, than that uneducated line of thinking. African American history IS American History!! I cannot argue that over a number of years it has become a more commercialized month, giving the opportunity to advertise and sell, more companies have used it for monetary gain. However, so has Christmas and Thanksgiving and don’t get me started about Valentine’s Day†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..but there is still a reason we continue to celebrate these Holidays†¦.I believe it is because at they’re core they are still a part of American history and tradition. Now they may have started elsewhere, but we have made them a part of our culture, our American culture. Even with the creation of black Friday and the 24 hours a day 7 days a week for 30 straight days of Christmas music on a popular radio station†¦.we still know it is important to gather with family, tell our sons, daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren of Christmases past, teach them about important people in our family history both living and deceased. It is important to educate our youth and give proper respect to the people (family members) that had they not done what they did, some of our families may not be here today. They sacrificed and paved the way for everyone to be together on these holidays. That sense of family, tradition and pride in being an American is what Black History month is all about. Americans whom just so happen to be of African descent. Americans who gave up many if not all of their holidays so that they’re children and grandchildren would not have to. Black History Month tells the continuing story of American history from the African American perspective. I’ll give you a couple of reasons why it is so relevant for today’s generation and future generations†¦. We all know the stories of many great African American contributors†¦ Fredrick Douglass, Martin Luther King Jr. George Washington Carver etc†¦ but, what about all of the non-African Americans who directly contributed to the abolishment of slavery, the education of an entire generation of displaced people. Those that gave their lives in the name of humanity. Who will speak for those American heroes?Why are they not mentioned in the same breath as Araminta Ross better known as Harriett Tubman? You ask why is Black Histoy Month relevant. It is relevant because we have barely scratched the surface towards recognizing, learning, teaching and understanding the true meaning of this American tradition. I thought about naming some of the non-African American contributors for those gathered here today, but then it occurred to me (I don’t need to) part of my purpose was to plant a seed, contribute to intelligent dialogue. I stated I would give you a couple of reasons.. The second one is this†¦..In our classrooms we still teach Greek mythology, we teach about the Great Roman empires, We teach American Indian history, we teach about Eli Whitney’s cotton gin, Thomas Edison’s light bulb †¦ and many many more historically important people and inventions. Yet these groups of people and inventions are no longer with us in the same capacity as they once were. And some of their ideas and inventions seem like they could have been created by a child†¦ by today’s standards. We teach about them because they are all†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦in one way or another connected to the development of the same race†¦The HUMAN Race!!! When you fill out an application for employment, school or the census, you’re asked to check a box White, African American, Hispanic American, American Indian, Asian American, Pacific Islander (maybe a few others) and then there is a box marked OTHER†¦.. Even with the diversity America has, who checks that box? Anyone mixed with two or more races? Anyone whose family history starts at Ellis Island? What if I told you OTHER is the fastest growing population in the world? What if in 25 years OTHER is the dominating population? I tell you this because I want you to think 50, 100, or 500 years from now when the OTHERS are the dominant race, how will they know of the contributions of African Americans? How will they know of the contributions of Irish Americans? Polish Americans? Jewish Americans? Filipino Americans? Asian Americans? American Indians? They will know because hopefully they will still be celebrating Irish American month in March, Filipino American Month in October, Hispanic Heritage month from Sep 15 to Oct 15, Jewish American Month in May and African American Month in February†¦That is how they will know†¦ Because no matter what box you check†¦ no matter what race creed or color you descend from, the key desc riptor is that of being an American.

Specific Heat Worked Example Problem

Specific Heat Worked Example Problem This worked example problem demonstrates how to calculate the specific heat of a substance when given the amount of energy used to change the substances temperature. Specific Heat Equation and Definition First, lets review what specific heat is and what equation you use to find it. Specific heat is defined as the amount of heat per unit mass needed to increase the temperature by one degree Celsius (or by 1 Kelvin). Usually, the lowercase letter c is used to denote specific heat. The equation is written: Q mcΔT (remember by thinking em-cat) where Q is the heat that is added, c is specific heat, m is mass and ΔT is the change in temperature. The usual units used for quantities in this equation are degrees Celsius for temperature (sometimes Kelvin), grams for mass, and specific heat reported in calorie/gram  °C, joule/gram  °C, or joule/gram K. You can also think of specific heat as heat capacity per mass basis of a material. When working a problem, youll either be given the specific heat values and asked to find one of the other values or else asked to find specific heat. There are published tables of molar specific heats of many materials. Note the specific heat equation does not apply for phase changes. This is because the temperature does not change. Specific Heat Problem It takes 487.5 J to heat 25 grams of copper from 25  °C to 75  °C. What is the specific heat in Joules/g ·Ã‚ °C?Solution:Use the formulaq mcΔTwhereq heat energym massc specific heatΔT change in temperaturePutting the numbers into the equation yields: 487.5 J (25 g)c(75  °C - 25  °C)487.5 J (25 g)c(50  °C)Solve for c:c 487.5 J/(25g)(50  °C)c 0.39 J/g ·Ã‚ °CAnswer:The specific heat of copper is 0.39 J/g ·Ã‚ °C.

Essay Sample on Terrorism Threats to Security

Essay Sample on Terrorism Threats to Security Example essay on Terrorism: The interrelated law and order issues of Organised Transnational Crime (OTC), the illicit drug trade and terrorism, are those which are most threatening to international security today. Law and order issues have also been called, low-intensity conflict, problems of global governability and grey area phenomenon and can be seen as threats to security arising from non-state actors and non-governmental processes. Increasingly since the end of the cold war, threats to national security are coming from these grey area phenomena and due to the process of globalisation, threats to national security can threaten international security. This essay will examine how OTC, terrorism and international drug trafficking are affecting all aspects of human security and it will be seen that it is increasingly difficult to clearly distinguish the difference between these issues. It will be shown that these particular GAP are the most threatening due to; the range of aspects of security they threaten, the convergence of and partnership between OTC and terrorism, the growing lethality of terrorism and the disparity of capabilities and effectiveness between these groups and the law enforcement and security bodies attempting to combat them. The new global economy has presented new opportunities for criminal organisations. These organisations have: increasingly engaged in cross-border activity, both in response to market activities and as a means of decreasing their vulnerability to law enforcement efforts. As a result, organisations and networks have increased in size and power and many have developed interests beyond their country of origin. Criminal organisations have developed to resemble transnational corporations which treat national borders as nothing more than minor inconveniences to their criminal enterprises. (McFarlane 1996, p.456) The most threatening of activities undertaken by OTC and increasingly by terrorists is the trafficking of illegal narcotics. The drug trade has the ability to penetrate all aspects of society and can threaten the social, political and economic security of nations, regions and the global community. Through corruption of state employees, transnational crime syndicates have the ability to undermine legitimate political processes. Dupont (1999, p.436) suggests that the growth in the coercive power of organised crime, if unchecked, has international security implications because large-scale criminal enterprise can subvert the norms and institutions that underpin the global order and the society of states. He offers Burma as the prime example of a threat to sovereignty from the anti-state imperatives of criminals trafficking in heroin and [synthetic drugs]. (p.454) Chalk (2001, p.188) offers an example closer to home however. He cites the findings of the 1996-97 Royal Commission into the New South Wales Police Service. The findings of the report suggest their has been a close relationship between police officers and drug traffickers for some time and Chalk goes on to explain that such corruption not only undermines the integrity and credibility of Australian social and political institutions, it also exposes the country to international influences over which it has little, if any, control. Thus OTC can be seen to pose a direct threat to sovereignty. In the post Cold War era, concerns have increasingly focused on security aspects other than the traditional concerns of political, military and sovereign integrity. The economic and social security of nations and its populations is becoming more important to security analysts and policy makers. The social impact of the drug trade may not necessarily be the most threatening to security but is probably the impact most felt by the majority of citizens within a society. These threats and impacts include; problems with addiction and the related problem of the spread of infectious diseases particularly HIV/AIDS and an increase in crime associated to the drug trade brought about by addicts trying to finance their habit and by traffickers trying to obtain larger shares of a market. McFarlane (1996, p.459) points to another interesting threat which may emerge from an increase in crime: Furthermore, with increasing crime a free press and civil rights tend to be ignored both by the criminals and by the hard-pressed law enforcement agencies. The potential for the drug trade to affect economic security is also large and is more and more becoming the focus of anti-crime initiatives. The importance of programmes and clinics to help those with an addiction problem or associated health or medical problem diverts funds from other areas of the economy. Finance of resources to combat OTC and the drug trade also diverts money from other sectors of the economy. Destabilisation of a financial system can also occur through the process of money laundering (Chalk: 2001 p181). The threat of terrorism also looms large on the international stage, especially since the events of Sept 11 2001 in New York and in Bali on Oct 12 2002. Due to these events, Militant Islamic terrorism is the focus of much of the international effort against terrorism and is seen as an immediate threat to international security. The difference between terrorists and OTC syndicates is largely determined by their motives and objectives. While OTC will usually focus on the acquisition of profits and power, militant Islamic terrors purpose is commonly identified as the eradication of infidel. In this, they are becoming much more proficient. One of the reasons for this proficiency is the availability and affordability of weapons and supporting technology left over from old Cold War conflicts (Chalk 1999, p.161; Marenko n.d). Campbell (1997, p. 28, cited in Chalk 1999, p.163) suggests that terrorism Ð ¡has demonstrated an increasing trend towards growing lethality and extreme violence sugg esting a potential escalation spiral that could culminate in the indiscriminate use of weapons of mass destruction. As separate law and order issues, Organised Transnational Crime and non-profit motivated terrorism constitute immediate threats to international security. There is however, an escalating trend towards cooperation and indeed a convergence between these two groups, so much so that is becoming more difficult to distinguish between them. Since the end of the Cold War, state sponsored and subsidised terrorism has declined and terrorist organisations have turned to criminal like activities to fund operations (Jamieson 2001, p.379). The most common and threatening of these activities is drug trafficking which offers dividends that can often lead revolutionary groups to neglect their ideals. Hezbollah operates a narcotics export operation out of the Bekaa Valley in the Middle East, has ties with the insurgent Kurdistan Workers Party and with Russian organised crime and is a good example of a group turning to crime to fund their terror operations. Abu Sayyaf in the Philippines and the Revolut ionary Armed Forces of Columbia (FARC) are better examples of ideologically driven groups that that have transformed into criminal enterprises (Cillufo 2000). On the other hand, organised crime groups are increasing their use of terror tactics. In 1993 for example, the Sicilian Mafia carried out a series of car bomb attacks near historic sites on the Italian mainland with the aim of intimidating public opinion and Parliament into abrogating recently passed anti-mafia legislation (Jamieson 2001, p.379). The cooperation between and convergence of OTC and terrorism naturally poses a larger threat to international security than if they operated alone. It is implied by the Report on the 11th Meeting of the CSCSP Working Group on Transnational Crime (2002) that John McFarlane suggests that the attacks on Sept 11 2001 in New York could not have been perpetrated without criminal means and connections being used to acquire funds and identity papers. The direct threats of OTC, the Drug trade and terrorism have been recognised but a related threat must also be addressed. This threat comes from a disparity between the capabilities of OTC and terrorist groups and the ability of governments to stop their activities. This is exacerbated by the effects of globalisation. Naim (2003) best describes this situation Never fettered by the niceties of sovereignty, they [OTCs and terrorists] are now increasingly free of geographic constraints. Moreover, globalisation has not only expanded illegal markets and boosted the size and the resources of criminal networks, it has also imposed more burdens on governments: Tighter public budgets, decentralisation, privatisation, deregulation and a more open environment for national trade and investment all make the task of fighting global criminal more difficult. Governments are made up of cumbersome bureaucracies that generally cooperate with difficulty, but drug traffickers, arms dealers, alien smugglers, counterfeiters and money launderers have refined networking to a high science, entering into complex and improbable strategic alliances that span cultures and continents. It is clear from this that governments need to redefine notions of sovereignty in order to foster more international cooperation within the framework of strengthened international institutions. Organised Transnational Crime activities, particularly narcotics trafficking, are a serious threat to international security. They can destabilise a nation socially, politically and economically, which in turn can lead to destabilisation in the international community. The increasing occurrence and lethality of militant Islamic terrorism also creates concern for international stability. The most significant threat however, comes from a convergence of OTC and terrorism and the international communitys inability to react effectively to this increasing phenomena. The new global economy has presented new opportunities for criminal organisations. These organisations have: increasingly engaged in cross-border activity, both in response to market activities and as a means of decreasing their vulnerability to law enforcement efforts. As a result, organisations and networks have increased in size and power and many have developed interests beyond their country of origin. Criminal organisations have developed to resemble transnational corporations which treat national borders as nothing more than minor inconveniences to their criminal enterprises. (McFarlane 1996, p.456) The most threatening of activities undertaken by OTC and increasingly by terrorists is the trafficking of illegal narcotics. The drug trade has the ability to penetrate all aspects of society and can threaten the social, political and economic security of nations, regions and the global community. Through corruption of state employees, transnational crime syndicates have the ability to undermine legitimate political processes. Dupont (1999, p.436) suggests that the growth in the coercive power of organised crime, if unchecked, has international security implications because large-scale criminal enterprise can subvert the norms and institutions that underpin the global order and the society of states. He offers Burma as the prime example of a threat to sovereignty from the anti-state imperatives of criminals trafficking in heroin and [synthetic drugs]. (p.454) Chalk (2001, p.188) offers an example closer to home however. He cites the findings of the 1996-97 Royal Commission into the New South Wales Police Service. The findings of the report suggest their has been a close relationship between police officers and drug traffickers for some time and Chalk goes on to explain that such corruption not only undermines the integrity and credibility of Australian social and political institutions, it also exposes the country to international influences over which it has little, if any, control. Thus OTC can be seen to pose a direct threat to sovereignty. In the post Cold War era, concerns have increasingly focused on security aspects other than the traditional concerns of political, military and sovereign integrity. The economic and social security of nations and its populations is becoming more important to security analysts and policy makers. The social impact of the drug trade may not necessarily be the most threatening to security but is probably the impact most felt by the majority of citizens within a society. These threats and impacts include; problems with addiction and the related problem of the spread of infectious diseases particularly HIV/AIDS and an increase in crime associated to the drug trade brought about by addicts trying to finance their habit and by traffickers trying to obtain larger shares of a market. McFarlane (1996, p.459) points to another interesting threat which may emerge from an increase in crime: Furthermore, with increasing crime a free press and civil rights tend to be ignored both by the criminals and by the hard-pressed law enforcement agencies. The potential for the drug trade to affect economic security is also large and is more and more becoming the focus of anti-crime initiatives. The importance of programmes and clinics to help those with an addiction problem or associated health or medical problem diverts funds from other areas of the economy. Finance of resources to combat OTC and the drug trade also diverts money from other sectors of the economy. Destabilisation of a financial system can also occur through the process of money laundering (Chalk: 2001 p181). The threat of terrorism also looms large on the international stage, especially since the events of Sept 11 2001 in New York and in Bali on Oct 12 2002. Due to these events, Militant Islamic terrorism is the focus of much of the international effort against terrorism and is seen as an immediate threat to international security. The difference between terrorists and OTC syndicates is largely determined by their motives and objectives. While OTC will usually focus on the acquisition of profits and power, militant Islamic terrors purpose is commonly identified as the eradication of infidel. In this, they are becoming much more proficient. One of the reasons for this proficiency is the availability and affordability of weapons and supporting technology left over from old Cold War conflicts (Chalk 1999, p.161; Marenko n.d). Campbell (1997, p. 28, cited in Chalk 1999, p.163) suggests that terrorism Ð ¡has demonstrated an increasing trend towards growing lethality and extreme violenceЕ .suggesting a potential escalation spiral that could culminate in the indiscriminate use of weapons of mass destructionÐ ¢ As separate law and order issues, Organised Transnational Crime and non-profit motivated terrorism constitute immediate threats to international security. There is however, an escalating trend towards cooperation and indeed a convergence between these two groups, so much so that is becoming more difficult to distinguish between them. Since the end of the Cold War, state sponsored and subsidised terrorism has declined and terrorist organisations have turned to criminal like activities to fund operations (Jamieson 2001, p.379). The most common and threatening of these activities is drug trafficking which offers dividends that can often lead revolutionary groups to neglect their ideals. Hezbollah operates a narcotics export operation out of the Bekaa Valley in the Middle East, has ties with the insurgent Kurdistan Workers Party and with Russian organised crime and is a good example of a group turning to crime to fund their terror operations. Abu Sayyaf in the Philippines and the Revolut ionary Armed Forces of Columbia (FARC) are better examples of ideologically driven groups that that have transformed into criminal enterprises (Cillufo 2000). On the other hand, organised crime groups are increasing their use of terror tactics. In 1993 for example, the Sicilian Mafia carried out a series of car bomb attacks near historic sites on the Italian mainland with the aim of intimidating public opinion and Parliament into abrogating recently passed anti-mafia legislation (Jamieson 2001, p.379). The cooperation between and convergence of OTC and terrorism naturally poses a larger threat to international security than if they operated alone. It is implied by the Report on the 11th Meeting of the CSCSP Working Group on Transnational Crime (2002) that John McFarlane suggests that the attacks on Sept 11 2001 in New York could not have been perpetrated without criminal means and connections being used to acquire funds and identity papers. The direct threats of OTC, the Drug trade and terrorism have been recognised but a related threat must also be addressed. This threat comes from a disparity between the capabilities of OTC and terrorist groups and the ability of governments to stop their activities. This is exacerbated by the effects of globalisation. Naim (2003) best describes this situation Never fettered by the niceties of sovereignty, they [OTCs and terrorists] are now increasingly free of geographic constraints. Moreover, globalisation has not only expanded illegal markets and boosted the size and the resources of criminal networks, it has also imposed more burdens on governments: Tighter public budgets, decentralisation, privatisation, deregulation and a more open environment for national trade and investment all make the task of fighting global criminal more difficult. Governments are made up of cumbersome bureaucracies that generally cooperate with difficulty, but drug traffickers, arms dealers, alien smugglers, counterfeiters and money launderers have refined networking to a high science, entering into complex and improbable strategic alliances that span cultures and continents. It is clear from this that governments need to redefine notions of sovereignty in order to foster more international cooperation within the framework of strengthened international institutions. Organised Transnational Crime activities, particularly narcotics trafficking, are a serious threat to international security. They can destabilise a nation socially, politically and economically, which in turn can lead to destabilisation in the international community. The increasing occurrence and lethality of militant Islamic terrorism also creates concern for international stability. The most significant threat however, comes from a convergence of OTC and terrorism and the international communityÐ ¢s inability to react effectively to this increasing phenomena.