Racial Culture: A Critique, by Richard T. Ford Essay

Over the last thirty years, critical race and gender theorists have questioned whether and if law can protect difference in a meaningful way, especially in the workplace. Richard T. Ford, a law professor at Stanford University, provides an interesting critique of the resulting â€Å"multicultural assumptions of difference† in his book RACIAL CULTURE. While he recognizes most refutations of these approaches come from conservatives with a political agenda of legal colorblindness, Ford explicitly asserts he shares the political and social goals of the progressive left. More specifically, he refutes colorblindness as a means of equality. Ford argues that racial identity politics have the liability of undermining their stated objective of eliminating racism in the workplace. The author is clear; his opposition to discrimination based on status does not mean that one is not ambivalent about the development of a new legal category of discrimination based on culture. His overarching concern is that â€Å"race,† which is socially and economically constructed, is given additional legitimacy by the assumption that every race manifests cultural similarities and that these cultural artifacts should be protected in the same manner as racism. [A]nti-discrimination law should be refined so as to recognize only those differences attributable to the production of formal status hierarchy, for the purpose of eliminating or reducing the ill-effects of such hierarchies. Difference discourse, by metastasizing status into a thick social identity, distracts from and confuses the vital task of correcting status hierarchy. Legal decision [*217] makers need to be aware of status differences and castelike social practices in order to correct the injustices that they do. But we should resist the temptation to write a speculative sociology of group difference into law or to enlist the state into a psychotherapeutic quest to validated â€Å"repressed† identities. Finally, Ford is concerned that in privileging racial culture we foster an environment of conflict and competition, without a thoughtful analysis of which cultures are most worthy of protecting. His assumption is that racial integration should be a dominant goal of society, with members of racial groups selecting for themselves which aspects of their culture are most worthy of preserving. Many readers may agree with aspects of his legal argument, without completely accepting his rejection of identity politics as â€Å"provincialism. † Ford offers instead a vision of â€Å"cosmopolitanism† in which â€Å"minority cultural practices will survive without legal protection, albeit often in an altered, fragmented and recombined form, and that such survival in an admittedly Hobbesian social competition is preferable to the distorted and blinkered version of group difference we should expect cultural rights to produce† . While Ford’s analysis is wide-ranging, well-written, and fascinating, there are several limitations to his argument. His own assumptions regarding employment discrimination law are disturbing. His reliance on current employment discrimination law as the best means for redressing racism ignores several factors that the â€Å"difference† discourse has revealed. One factor is the gap for women of color within the protections of Title VII. To demonstrate racial discrimination, women of color must show that others of their race were treated similarly, but if those similarly-situated are men, the discrimination may not be evident. To demonstrate gender discrimination, women of color must show that others of their gender were treated similarly, but if white women are those who are similarly-situated, such discrimination may not be apparent. Contemporary Title VII jurisprudence frequently does not allow for interactions between race and gender that are unique to women of color. The formal equality required by Title VII is limited in how well it can protect against explicit racism, let alone against the â€Å"proxies of race† illustrated by cultural practice. Another area that requires further development is Ford’s extension of cultural analysis to less comparable areas of employment discrimination law—in particular, sexual preference and gender. His premise that sexual preference should be protected as status, rather than as behavior or culture, ignores the lesser protection granted sexual preference under the law compared to racial discrimination. Ford does not address the unanswered question within the law of whether sexual preference is behavior or immutable characteristic. The current judicial acceptance of lower levels of scrutiny to protect sexual preference in the workplace means that a simple reliance on current employment discrimination law will not render the results he professes are necessary. Finally, his equivalence of gender discrimination to race is disappointing, especially in the area of pregnancy. While the right to difference literature [*218] builds on a century of analysis by feminist scholars, there are clear differences between the two. However, Ford perceives pregnancy as a form of gender culture, as braids or language can be for race. But this analogy does not work. Discrimination against pregnancy is not justified by employers solely on the basis of predicted workplace impacts of the actual pregnancy, but also because women have the potential to become pregnant. Since pregnancy is a biological reality, how can it be simply another cultural manifestation or behavior choice? A second difference is that, unlike forms of racial or ethnic culture, Congress revised Title VII to incorporate pregnancy into the definition of gender discrimination. 4 Part 2- How racial Identity affects an individual in society Individual youth who experience discrimination carry higher stress burden People’s beliefs that they are being treated badly because racial or gender bias increases their stress levels, and may lead to increased emotional and behavioral problems, according to a study of black and white youth. Understanding how race and gender affect youths’ well-being â€Å"is necessary not only for promoting optimal individual development, but also for meeting the nation’s social and economic needs,† says lead study author David L. DuBois, Ph. D., of the School of Public Health at the University of Illinois at Chicago. DuBois conducted the research while at the University of Missouri, Columbia. Previous studies have focused on older study participants, but little is known about how younger age groups are affected by discrimination or prejudice, according to the study, which is published in the September/October issue of Child Development. DuBois and his colleagues administered a series of questionnaires to 350 students in grades 5-8. This group of students included comparable numbers of blacks and whites, females and males. One survey, which included questions like â€Å"Were you called names or insulted at school about your race/ethnicity† and â€Å"Were you treated unfairly at school because you are a girl/boy,† was designed to measure discriminatory experiences and how study participants were affected by them, while others measured major life stressors, racial and gender identity, self-esteem and behavior. The researchers found significant differences among the student groups. Black study participants, both males and females, reported more experiences with discrimination and prejudice. The study setting, a Midwestern school district in which blacks were a minority in both student body and staff, may have contributed to these higher perceived levels, according to the study. â€Å"In this context many black youth may not have felt adequately supported in their efforts to deal with situations involving perceived victimization or unfair treatment on the basis of race,† DuBois says. The black students who reported higher levels of discrimination were more likely to have emotional problems, the researchers found. Such problems may stem from internalized anger, according to findings from other studies. The researchers also found that the black participants in their early teens reported feeling a stronger sense of racial identity than same-age whites. The new study and previous studies have found that at this age, blacks tend to have higher self-esteem than whites. DuBois and his colleagues found that a strong racial identity is important in helping to enhance the self-esteem of black youth. 5 How Racial Identity Affects School Performance of an Individual We investigated the sources of differences in school performance between students of different races by focusing on identity issues. We find that having a higher percentage of same-race friends has a positive effect of white teenagers’ test score while having a negative effect on blacks’ test scores. However, the higher the education level of a black teenager’s parent, the lower this negative effect, while for whites, it is the reverse. It is thus the combination of the choice of friends (which is a measure of own identity) and the parent’s education that are responsible for the difference in education attainment between students of different races but also between students of the same race. One interesting aspects of this paper is to provide a theoretical model that grounds the instrumental variable approach used in the empirical analysis to deal with endogeneity issues. 6 Our Racial Identity affects who we see in society The authors asked biracial participants (one Black and one White parent) to think about their Black parent’s ethnicity. After, they could spot the presence or lack of a Black face in a crowd of White faces with the same speed and accuracy as a monoracial Black person. The same held true when asked to think of their White parent. Although all detected Black faces faster than white faces, biracial students were affected by thinking about one half of their racial identity and then behaved as if they were monoracial. Black, white, and biracial participants performed the visual search task by looking at Black and White faces on a computer screen. To prep the biracial individuals, the participants were asked to write about their mother or father’s ethnicity. Black-primed and White-primed biracial individuals differed significantly in the searches, displaying the effects of the manipulation. â€Å"These findings demonstrate that visual perception is malleable to top-down influences, such as orientation provided by one’s racial group membership,† the authors conclude. References: 1. AAPA Statement on Biological Aspects of Race America Association of Physical Anthropologists (AAPA) 2. http://genomebiology. com/2002/3/7/comment/2007 3. Alicia Fedelina Chavez, Florence Guido-DiBrito Racial and Ethnic Identity and Development NEW DIRECTIONS FOR ADULT AND CONTINUING EDUCATION, no.84, Winter 1999  © Jossey-Bass Publishers 39 4. Richard T. Ford. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2004. Vol. 15 No. 3 (March 2005), pp. 215-218 5. Pamela Ippoliti, www. hbns. org 6. Eleonora Patacchini (eleonora. patacchini@uniroma1. it) (University of Rome â€Å"La Sapienza†)Yves Zenou (yvesz@iui. se) (IUI, GAINS, CEPR and IZA Bonn) 7. Joan Y. Chiao, Hannah E. Heck, and Ken Nakayama are at Harvard University. Nalini Ambady is at Tufts University. Blackwell Publishing Ltd. , May 10, 2006.

Pharmocology

The exact mechanism of action of ingloriousness is unknown however it is known to researchers and medical professionals that ingloriousness suppress the immune response of Re- negative pats. To Re- positive red blood cells as well as reestablishing normal importunately pathways (Apostate). Side Effects of MOA – Octagon and Privilege both have black box warnings however this black box warning does not apply to all Ingloriousness.The black box warning consists of increased risk of acute renal dysfunction/failure as well as thrombosis. The risk of thrombosis is increased in patients over the age of 65 years old, prolonged manipulation, etc. (Apostate). Other serious side effects include hypersensitivity, nonphysical, rather multiform, hyperinflation, hypersensitivity, aseptic meningitis, psychotherapeutic, viral transmission risk, and hemolytic anemia Teaching – It Is common for the patient to experience headache, cough, (Apostate). Cause and vomiting, rash, Uralic, fever, rigors, flushing, back pain, fatigue, chest tightness, muscle cramps, and elevated BUN Cry elevated lab values (Apostate). It is important to alert your doctor of any allergy before beginning to take these medications. Do not get any type of immunization while taking ingloriousness without getting an okay from your doctor (Monoclinic). Administration Consideration (Special timing, take with/without food, etc. ) – It is important to take this medication on a very regular schedule as well as making sure to take the medication with food.There Is a serious risk of nonphysical with these medications so the Importance of telling your doctors your allergies is very great (Monoclinic). Drug/Drug Interactions Major – proportioning most concerning) – Consult your doctor if you are on any medications for heart problems, blood clotting, or atherosclerosis as ingloriousness can cause an increased risk for blood clotting and a higher risk when these other types of medication s are Involved (Monoclonal).Taking other immune globulins at the time of administration can cause a very serious side effect of nonprescription (Apostate). Required Labs – Numerous ingloriousness labs must be completed to determine which mucilaginous within the body has quit working. (Gig, leg, LCD, IGMP, and Gig). Doctors use these tests to determine what type of indemnification disease the patient is suffering from by seeing which mucilaginous levels are increased or decreased from the normal lab values (Kids Health).

Pacific gas and electric Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Pacific gas and electric - Essay Example During PG&E’s first year in operation an earthquake destroyed one of its facilities – North Beach Gas Works. However, it’s two other facilities Potrero Works and Martin Station. Between 1905 and 1912 the company’s billing system was based on a flat rate. However in 1912 the decision was taken to begin installing meters, thereby getting rid of the flat rate billing system (Wikipedia). In 1930 the company began the delivery of natural gas to San Francisco and Northern California using what was at that time the longest pipe line in the world. This pipeline connects the Texas gas fields to Northern California. One of the characteristics of this system is that at 300 miles intervals there was a compressor station that consisted of cooling towers. Having introduced natural gas in 1930 PG&E started the task of retiring manufacturing facilities that were major sources of pollution. Some of the plants ware kept on standby in case they became necessary (Wikipedia). After World War 11, PG&E built numerous facilities including 14 new hydroelectric plants and 5 steam plants. At the end of 1992 the company operated 173 electric generating units and 85 generating stations. Additionally, it had 18,450 miles of transmission lines and a whopping 101,400 miles of distribution systems (Wikipedia). In the latter part of the 1990’s the company sold off a substantial portion of its natural gas plants leaving only a few. This meant that it had to purchase power from energy generators in order to satisfy the demands of its customers. Even though the purchase price of power was fluctuating PG&E was forced to sell power to its customers at a fixed cost. The company still maintained its hydroelectric plants along with the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant. PG&E’s competitors included Enron Corporation which dominated the market and along with other corporations pushed the prices up for electricity. This resulted in the California electricity crisi s that began in 2000. In 1995 PG&E Corporation was incorporated. It’s primary purpose to hold shares in Pacific Gas & Electric Company. PG&E Corporation became the holding company of Pacific Gas and Electric Company in 1997. The company operates in both northern and central California. The company generates income mainly through the sale and delivery of electricity and natural gas to customers (Annual Report 2009). Operations in the 21st Century In 2000 there was a major incident where the company allowed water tainted with cancer causing chromium to seep into underground water supplies which affected residents in the community of Hinkley in California (Joseph Ascenzi 2000). PG&E later filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2001 and emerged from that situation three years later in 2004 after distributing over $10 billion to creditors (Wikipedia). Since that time the company has turned around its operations and is currently making profits. The company’s power generating por tfolio is extensive and consists of an extensive hydroelectric system, one operating nuclear power plant, one operating natural gas and another gas fired plant which has recently been reconstructed. The company’s hydroelectric portfolio is the largest under private ownership as opposed to government ownership in the Unites States. It draws water from approximately 100 reservoirs along 16 river basins. Its maximum output is approximately 4,000 mega watts (MW). The only operating nuclear

Using Secondary Sources Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Using Secondary Sources - Assignment Example LOCH ET AL: (excited) In addition to that, the public  is well acquainted  with most happening around the world by the  help  of social networks that  are encompassed  within the social media. This  has been achievable  by the use of the internet, television and even the radio (Loch et al, 2003, 26). This is common among the youths and students unlike among the older generation of people. DUBAI SCHOOL: (with authority) I thought that with globalization and the coming up social media the world would be a better place but things have changed.  A part from the  business  industry  that has benefited from social media, the other sectors are on the verge of losing and †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. (Dubai school, 2011, 23). ALFAWZAN: (laughing) that is right. An  excellent  example would be the  spread  of social evils that are on the  rise  within communities around the world among the young generation.  Social media and its effects have contributed to the widespread of pornographic materials,  usage  of drugs and  other,  ill  related motives such as cheating. LOCH ET AL: (nodding his head) that may be  right  but, people must also look at benefits of social media. For example, people have gotten to share information on various issues that  touch  their lives. Through this, these people have been able to live  better  lives that those that they were living†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ (Loch et al, 2003, 29). DUBAI SCHOOL: (interrupting) Social media have touched many lives in communities around the world. Acquisition of mobile phones has also seen the free and  fast  flow of information; a  thing  that has led to the  exposure  of many anomalies within the society (Dubai school, 2011, 15). In regard to the Arab world that has seen mass action recently, it can be concluded that much of the social media was among the factors that led to proliferation of many  demonstration  in such countries†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. ALFAWZAN  :( interrupting) When it

Comparison Pratt's Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Comparison Pratt's - Essay Example Therefore, presentation of conflict and tranquility at individual, local, social and international levels form the major components of contact zones. In that vein, media, time periods, traditions and faculties form major points of reference while exploring a film. Consequently, zones describe and identify origins of conflict; explanations on how occurrences of conflicts reach others and to strive to understand ways that ordinary statesmen can work for peace (Grossman, 2013). Mary concept of contact zones encompasses colonialism, slavery, and results as is witnessed in various parts of the world. Mary eventually uses the word to reconsider most models of communities that many people use to teach and theorize conflicts in the world today. It is important to note that, Guaman Poma huge letter to Philip III exemplifies some social complexities that culminate to conquests and empires. The letter was written in two languages, Spanish and Quechua and in two parts. Nueva is the name of the first part that was constituted of the main official discourses. New chronicles by Guaman Poma’s gives an instance that mary proposes to call an autoethnographic text. A text that individuals undertake to describe themselves in ways that other people talk of them in presentations they make (Grossman, 2013). Unlike ethnographic texts used by people in European metropolitan subjects to represent themselves, autoethnography represent texts that the so-defined others develop in response to other texts. Important to note, autoethnogrsphics are not equivalent to autochthonous way of expression or self-representation that many fondly mistake. Rather, it involves choosing collaborations that can are appropriated with idioms of the conqueror (Grossman, 2013). The texts are merged and blended in at different degrees with idioms to form a self-representation that strives to get involved in metropolitan

Careers in Lodging and Food and Beverage Industries Essay - 1

Careers in Lodging and Food and Beverage Industries - Essay Example The National Restaurant Association notes that there are a variety of positions that exist in the food industry. Some of the job titles in this respect include baker, bartender, beverage manager, banquet manager, general manager, pastry chef, wine steward, president, and human resource manager among others. Generally, restaurants employ people to work in the kitchen, front-of-house, back-of-house, and as servers. Restaurants always employ people to work as managers in different capacities. Some of the management positions in the restaurant industry include banquet manager, general manager (quick service), beverage manager, catering manager, dining room manager, general manager (fullservice), human resources manager, kitchen manager, public relations manager, and president/CEO. The banquet manager is charged with the responsibility of planning and overseeing parties, conventions, and banquets among other special events that the restaurant hosts or caters for (National Restaurant Assoc iation, 2013). More specifically, the banquet manager solicits business, supervises and coordinates banquet functions, and ensures that customers are satisfied with the products and services they receive during the events. In order for one to qualify as a banquet manager, they have to be knowledgeable in food production and service. Furthermore, they should be able to perform all duties related to banquet operations, and lead, train and supervise banquet staff. The beverage manager is charged with the responsibility of managing lounges and bars among other outlets that deal with beverages and ensuring that they are profitably run (National Restaurant Association, 2013). On the other hand, the catering manager has the responsibility of overseeing all catered functions. The catering manager delegates duties to catering staff, works hand in hand with the sales team to ensure that the restaurant gets and maintains clients, and listens to and addresses customer complaints. Other function s of the catering manager are organizing decorations, photographs, and flowers; booking entertainment bands and facilities, and planning the rent of facilities that may be needed for functions such as linen and tables. The dining room manager oversees the operations of the dining room and ensures that food service activities are properly coordinated (National Restaurant Association, 2013). The manager also directs staff to plan menus and perform related activities; budgets for supplies; and supervises and trains employees. The dining room manager also ensures that budget limitations are respected in addition to maintaining bookkeeping and payroll records. The food and beverage manager generally manages the operations of the food service outlet, kitchen and catering services. The manager also liaises with the sales team to ensure that the restaurant maximizes its profits. The human resources manager is in charge of maintaining a qualified and well motivated staff to work in the resta urant. In particular the manager hires workers, develops in-house training programs, and solves any other issues related to employees and their careers (National Restaurant Association, 2013). The public relations manager has the duty of ensuring that the restaurant has a positive image. They are also concerned with such activities as fund raisers, newsworthy

Nursing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

Nursing - Essay Example Interest in professionalizing the nursing occupation emerged in healthcare organizations in 1970s. This stemmed from the need to provide a substitute motivation for workers with blocked access to structures of mobility and that the ideological draw of professionalism offered the promise of higher degree of control. (Barker 2008, p. 9) Here, it is important to underscore that profession through their scientific credibility becomes a source of power and prestige. Indeed, it arises out of self-interest and provides a means by which occupational groups exert influence to advance their own interest in society. By professionalizing the nursing profession, it was expected that traditional collective action such as unionism would be countered and that nurses, being educated as professionals in colleges and universities, were expected to exercise their knowledge and skills without bureaucratic constraint. The classical criteria that make a field or profession professional were posited in 1915 by Abraham Flexner, an imminent sociologist, who outlined several qualities. The most important of which follows: Flexner’s qualities for professionalism stressed rationalism, scientific standards and objectivity. These criteria were addressed by the model that conceptualized nursing professionalism, the Miller’s Wheel. In the wheel model, the center represents the essential foundation of nursing education in an institution of learning and, according to Miller: Each of the eight spokes represents other behaviors deemed necessary in maintaining or increasing nurses’ professionalism. They are competence and continuing education; adherence to the code of ethics; participation in the primary and referent professional organizations, i.e., ANA and state constituent member associations; publication and communication; orientation toward community services; theory and research development and utilization; and

Schools Sporting Day Memoir Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Schools Sporting Day Memoir - Essay Example   In a Schools’ Sporting Day that I witnessed in summer, various events took place. Our group converged at the field by 9 am and a welcoming note was given by the school’s representative. Since we were a large group, the team had to separate into five groups to compete against each other the various sporting activities for the day. It was in summer and so the sunny weather was comfortable for the event. A compeer took the mandate of controlling the tournament from the begging to the end following set rules and regulations. As such, the compeer read and explained the rules governing the event and spelled out disciplinary measures against any violators. He also delegated the powers to record resultant scores to three assistants for purposes of establishing the winners. We said a word if prayer put on the sporting attire, and started the warm up for the event. After 15 minutes of light exercises, we were ready for a challenging yet exciting sporting day. To improve the l evel of participation in the tournament, we chose to run all the sporting activities as relay races. Moreover, to incorporate the abilities and skills of every participant, the event had a wide range of challenges where one would score points on skill, participation, and teamwork. Classic races were the kick starters of the event and included welly waging, three legged dashes, relay race, egg & spoon race, wheelbarrow race, bean bag on the head, space hopper race, sack race, skipping race, and obstacle course.

Management information systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Management information systems - Essay Example Gissaral Electronic business is having main intentions regarding the customer management at (Reponen, 1993): 10 New Technology Scope: Gissaral Electronic business has the future intension of implementing the following key business services and systems. In this scenario there will be following scope for new technology implementation (Reponen, 1993): 11 Management Information system: The term information system can be defined theoretically as â€Å"a set of organized components that collect, process, store, and transfer information to carry decision making and control in an organization†. In addition, the information systems store and maintain information regarding important places, people, and things within the organization or in the set up surrounding it (Laudon & Laudon, 1999, p.7; Hoffer et al., 2007, p.429). However, a management information system is an application or function of information system that provides management oriented reporting. In addition, these reports are typically developed on a predetermined schedule and come out in a prearranged structure (Whitten et al., 2000, p.47). 12 Decision support systems/ DSS: For the Gissaral Electronic, decision support system (DSS) will be the first choice, because it provides the comprehensive information for making a decision, and develop information systems particularly designed to aid and formulate decisions. Furthermore, the decision support systems depend on models and methods to create brief tables or an amount that decides a decision (Oz, 2008). 13 Customer information system: The next main choice regarding the technology solution at Gissaral Electronic will be customer information system. We want to implement this system for the business management, data handling and transaction management. This system will be a business management (business information management) system (Computer Sciences Corporation, 2010;

Theoretical Positions of Freud, Adler, Jung, and James Essay Example for Free

Theoretical Positions of Freud, Adler, Jung, and James Essay Introduction Historically, some of the greatest insights of psychological analysis stemmed from the minds of ordinary men and women. In many respects, most psychodynamic theories come from psychoanalysis studies that have been conducted over the generations. Science has worked meticulously to establish quality and validation to structuralist perspectives; however it was functionalism movement that were more qualitative in nature. Although not directly associated with the movement, psychologists such as Sigmund Freud, Alfred Adler, Carl Jung, and William James made is possible to explain the purpose of the human consciousness. They all wanted to discover a way to improve the quality of the lives of individuals rather than focus on laboratory research; a more direct approach to mapping the mind. Their variations in theory were designed to focus on the foundation of human behaviors and the best way to provide accurate analysis and treatment to those behavior motivators. Sigmund Freud: Perspectives and Major Disagreements Conscious and Unconscious: Freud’s Theories – Disagreement In regards to Freudian psychology, Vaughan wrote, â€Å"the imposing, assertive methods of the arrangement†¦made ideal the rise of forceful obstruction in its train (1927). James and Freud have the most significant differences in perspectives. James felt introspection and self-reflection is the way to understanding life within the mental states (Goodwin, 2008). However, Freud believes that behavior is regulated by the unconscious mind. This was made understandable through free association and dreams. Ultimately, Freud thought professionals could figure out the state and individual based the  state on the analysis of his or her dreams (Freud, 1911). But, self-reflection was what James believed (Hart, 2008). Freud’s Sexual Motivations – Disagreement Adler and Jung, who formerly related with Freud, found disagreements with Freud’s theory of sexual motivations and psychosexual developments (Vaughan, 1927). These men argued that placing extreme prominence on the motivation through sex would reduce individual behaviors to only one motivation that is fundamental (Vaughan, 1927). Adler wanted the theory he created to become the main stimulus and foundation through his psychological theories replacing Freud’s emphasis on sexual motivation. He would replace this with self-reflection (Vaughan, 1927). Freud would focus on forces held internally to include; sexual motivation, biological dispositions, and conflicts. Adler’s theories concentrated on social factors (Goodwin, 2008). The most similar views out of the four men where Jung and Freud (Goodwin, 2008). Again Freud would be questioned by Jung and his thoughts within sexual motivations, concluding the theories of analytical psychology (Goodwin, 2008). Although Jung ’s views can be comparable to Freud’s, Jung would extend the theory to embrace a perspective that was more advanced (Goodwin, 2008). Alfred Adler and the Individual Psychology Alfred Adler was an Austrian doctor, psychotherapist, and the main founder of the school of individual psychology. He strongly believed in the importance of the feeling of inferiority or the inferiority complex. The inferiority complex is well known as a major key of developing personalities. An inferiority complex is a lack of self-worth, doubting oneself, uncertain of ability, or feeling as if you are not up to standards. He believed this occurred in the subconscious and caused people to overcompensate. This resulted in people either doing exceeding well, or failing miserably resulting in behavior considered abnormal by society. He believed that people were whole individuals, and from that came his â€Å"Individual Psychology†. Freud disbelieved Adlers ideas and believed they were too contrary so he had all members of the Vienna Psychoanalytic Society expel Adler. Despite the fact Freud believed Adler to be incorrect, he still took his ideas seriously and called them,  "honorable errors†. Carl Jung Than we had Carl Jung who was an analytical psychiatrist who is considered as the prototype of the dissident through the impact of his scission and the movement that he created when he became analytical. He was the son of a swiss reverend of a community, he went to school and studied the medical field but he specialized in psychiatry he also worked for a renowed psychiatric hospital in Zurich. Carl Jung had a strong personality and was also thought of as quite facinating he was introduced to Freud in 1907. They hit it off and he would soon be facinated by the prestige and personality that Carl Jung had he soon seen in him the son that could keep the survival of psychoanalysis. He really believed in hm and was so into his personality that it didn’t even face him that Jung was not a jewish like he was. Soon after Jung was traveling to the US and became the first president of the â€Å"International Association of Psychoanalysis†. He traveled the world for a while and did several analysis throughout the US he also became more and more away from his studies as he was aging. But he still got to accomplish a lot and also got to fund his own schools which really attracted a lot of people he was a master in what he did and really got to accomplish a lot in the field of Psychology. Compare and Contrasts As you can see all of the psychologists mentioned above had the same goal: explain the purpose of the human consciousness. Freud as the first to develop the basis of all psychodynamic theories: psychoanalysis. Understanding certain behaviors requires insight into the emotional responses that motivate specific reactions; sexual development was paramount to human behavior. He believed that the human psyche consisted of three parts: the Ego, Super-Ego, and the Id; all parts of the sexual developmental process. On the other hand, Adler’s theory was more straight-forward: he believed that these three parts operated as a single unit; the central theme of functionalism. Alder was the first to establish the idea that an individual’s personality was a direct reflection of their conscious. The psychologist that met these two in the middle was Carl Jung. Like Freud, Jung believed all behaviors were triggered by motivators, only he thought that the motivator was based on an inferio rity complex; and like Adler, he believed that the human psyche acted as a single unit. Jung was most  significant for his use of word association to understand unconscious responses to external stimuli. His efforts proved that the unconscious mind is able to provided responses independent from the conscious mind. And finally, James William emphasized the notion of a â€Å"stream of consciousness†Ã¢â‚¬â€an active agent of mental action that is constantly changing (Goodwin, 2008). Although each psychologist had a unique perspective of how the human psyche operated, they made it possible to explain the consciousness. Conclusion Some of the greatest insights into psychological analysis included Freud’s psychoanalysis; Adler’s individualism; Jung’s analytical perspective, and James’s â€Å"stream of thought† analogies. Because of their extensive efforts to explore the human consciousness, they are often referred to as the â€Å"founding fathers of modern psychology. Together they validated the significance of functionalism over structuralism; the truth lies in the purpose not the design. Each psychologist provided a unique approach to establish what the purpose of the consciousness; the basis of all human behavior. Variations in their theories provided many different approaches to target those behavior motivators. These great psychologist collectively improved the quality of life for many individuals over the generations. References: 1. Freud, S. (1911) Interpretation of Dreams (3rd edition) Retrieved May 12, 2014 from EbscoHost 2. Goodwin, C. J. (2008). A History of Modern Psychology (3rd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley. 3. Vaughan, W. (1927). The psychology of Alfred Adler. The Journal of Abnormal and Social Psychology, 21(4), 358-371 EbsocHost 4. Durbin, P. (2004). Alfred Adler. Retrieved May 19, 2014, from http://www.alfredadler.org/alfred-adler 5. Fisher, M. (2010, May). Psychology History. Retrieved May 19, 2014, from http://www.muskingum.edu/~psych/psycweb/history/adler.htm 6. Kowalski, R., Westen, D. (2005). Psychology (4th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley. 7. Jung, Carl. The Gale Encyclopedia of Psychology. Ed. Bonnie Strickland. 2nd ed. Detroit: Gale, 2001. 347-348. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 19 May 2014

Development of a Business

Development of a Business Executive summary The proposed business will be a Production business named as â€Å"Sangay Tissue† in production and sales of tissue papers under sole proprietorship. The business is to be set up at Bjimina in Thimphu at Bjimina as the location for main production and supply site for the business and there are more population and ease of transportation and communication to other regions. The business will produce soft tissue which is durable compared to the existing tissue and which is not yet produced by anyone in the country. SANGAY TISSUE will provide quality tissue at a very reasonable price than the existing tissue, which is imported from India and Thailand. The proposed business is to provide full satisfaction to the customers and meet their needs by providing high quality, and cost-effective product. The mission of the business is to have â€Å"Continuous improvement in products and services to meet the customers’ needs†. Generally the customers are divided into three categories and they are heavy users like hotels, restaurants, resorts and canteen which will be mainly focused by the business. Light users like high income earners will also be focused as they use it in their residents. The business will also target and encourage remote people to use the product but not forgetting the individual customers who use tissue. Being a monopoly firm, almost all the Dzongkhag where there are more numbers of hotels, restaurants, resorts and canteen are targeted. However, initially, Thimphu, Paro, Punakha and Phuntsholing will be the most targeted areas to sell the product, since large number of hotels and restaurants are running well in these places. Marketing strategy of the proposed business is to emphasize the quality of tissue paper and to keep the price as much as low to increase the sales volume and receive repeated customers. To get into international market and to use the resources available is the firm’s target, working towards achieving it is the firm’s patience, gaining fame and goodwill for the business is the firm’s destiny and keeping up with the same or in fact better, is the firm’s continuous vision.With the business philosophy, given integration of inputs, the first priority, taking into account is the customers satisfaction and with continuous innovations, SANGAY TISSUE hopes to establish long term and steady business relations with most purchaser from home and abroad and seek mutual development. Project Profile Proposed Business Name SANGAY TISSUE Proposed Business Type Production(sole proprietorship) Proposed Financing Nu. 20,00,000/- Sangay tissue’s Vision To get into international market and to use the resources available is the firm’s target, working towards achieving it is the firm’s patience, gaining fame and goodwill for the business is the firm’s destiny and keeping up with the same or in fact better, is the firm’s continuous vision. Mission The proposed business is to provide full satisfaction to the customers and meet their needs by providing high quality, and cost-effective product. The business mission is to have â€Å"Continuous improvement in products and services to meet the customers’ needs.† The following are also the missions of the business beside the mentioned one: After the few years from the day of the establishment, to produce different sizes of tissue in different design as per the desire of the customers, to meet their requirements. To make efficient and effective use of the resources available without causing any harm to the environment. Objectives The main objective of the project will be aimed towards self-sufficiency and independent which is one of the pillar of GNH and rather than relying and depending on other country for such a small product like tissue. Besides there are objectives as follows: Human objectives: To create employment opportunity for those who are unemployed. To help employees in gaining experiences and skills. Economic objectives: To reduce import in the country, this is likely to make the balance of trade favorable, thereby increasing the national income in the economy. To mobilize the available resources. Keys to Success 1. Project location Since it is located in the capital of Bhutan, it is expected to be very suitable for the business where the business can have easy and direct access to get the raw materials. The chosen location is also expected to bear the following advantages to run the business efficiently and successfully: The business can get the Bhutanese laborers easily at cheaper rate since there are many local places where there are many native people who are unemployed. 2. Competition There is no existing tissue company in the country till now but import of the similar product from the nearby countries is in fact a competition. So the competitor as such allows the business to upgrade or improve the product. 3. Availability of resources The resources for the tissue making are unwanted waste of books or paper from offices and schools and the forest (woods) which are easily available in the country. So the business need not worry about the availability of the resources (raw materials). It can be obtained easily at cheaper rate. Since the TEE PEE business is more focusing on recycling the paper waste, this can be the competitive advantage of the business. 4. Availability of labor As the proposed business firm will be located at the capital it will be easy to get labor at a cheaper rate since there are many constructions taking place in Thimphu so it will be easy to get labor. 5. Low selling price The business is planning to sell its product at a low price compared to the competitors since the business don’t spent more money on the raw materials because the materials for the tissue production are easily achieved and the labor are also easily available in the capital (business location). SWOT ANALYSIS Strengths Advanced tools, equipments and Machine. Location of the Business. Weaknesses Lack of sufficient business information and research. Difficult to familiarize the brand name of the product. Initially, the business cannot produce variety of tissues in terms of style and design. Opportunities Can sell the product throughout the country. Can easily find the regular customer. Good labor supply. No competition. Availability of resources at cheaper price. Threats Competitor may arise. May lead to price war after existence of competitor. Forest rule and regulation. 1. Strengths Advanced tools, equipments and machine. Since the production is comprised of quite long procedure for which each machine is allocated for doing each work, these will make task easier and job gets done quickly and efficiently which will reduce manual work. Following such quality process will not only lead to mass production but it will also lead to division of work and so possibility of specialization, which will increase workers productivity. Location of Our Business. As the location is going to be located at the capital, the working atmosphere will be suitable since there will be ease of raw material and consumer. The place is very suitable because we can get raw materials nearby where the business need not have to bear much transporting charges. The business can get skillful labors from that region since people of that region have already got work experience. 2. Weaknesses Lack of sufficient business information and research. Since the proposed business is the first firm producing tissue in the country, the business doesn’t have any reference to look at the existing firm’s experience. Lack of information and experience can makes the business less confident in decision making and investment. Therefore, the business has to do lots of research to test itself which requires some investment, involving higher risk in leading to unproductive result. Difficult to familiarize brand name of our product. Even though the business is a monopoly in producing tissue, the business cannot differentiate the product from existing firm, since the business has to use same machine. Initially, the business cannot produce variety of tissue in terms of design and style. 3. Opportunities Can sell our product throughout the country. Being a monopoly business, the firm can sell its product throughout the country. And in every Part of the country where there are restaurants and hotels, where the business can supply the product to them. The business can easily find regular customers. No competitors. Being a monopoly firm there will be no competition in the market unless new firm arises. So the business can win over the full share of the market for the product, therefore continuous mass production is possible. 4. Threats Competitors may arise. Since resources are available and after studying the firm’s new competitors may arise with new innovative and improve product and compete with the business in the market. Operational Plan for SANGAY TISSUE is as follows: 1. Equipment Si. No. Description 1 Pulper 2 Breaker 3 Beater / refiner 4 Washer 5 Refining equipment 6 De-flaking equipment 7 Screen 8 Cleaners 9 Four drainer machine 10 Head box or flow-box 11 Press 12 Dryer 13 Reeling, winding and sheeting equipment, 14 Handling equipment 15 Size press Machine 16 Cutting machine 17 Laboratory equipment 18 Auxiliary equipment 19 Boiler Capital items Cost in Nu. Machine Set (15,00,000+20% tax) 18,00,000 Computer and printer 20,000 Furniture, fittings and fixture -Table (3) 3000 -Chair (6) 4200 -Curtains 3000 Telephone (2) 4000 Modem 2000 Total 18,36,200 3. Tissue paper production process The raw materials (waste paper, waste cartoon, recycled paper) can be easily obtained from everywhere within Thimphu or other Dzongkhags. The intended business can obtain the waste paper or books from schools and offices, waste cartoon and other papers (Kuensel, newspaper, etc) from shops or resident. In order to convert the raw material into finished product a set of tissue paper machine is required which is the main and the basic asset of the business. So the proposed business will import all the materials needed from china as china deals in these tissue making machineries at an affordable price. The glue and the chemical needed will be purchased from India. As the proposed business is a partnership business with 5 partners, each partner will contribute some amounts and the rest will be taken loan from the bank. So basically the key supplier of all the machineries required will be China, India and the supplier of finance will be the five partners and the bank. Whereas the suppliers of raw materials would be the schools, shops, households and offices. The whole set of tissue production machineries will be purchased from Zhengzhou city Henam, China. One of the company officials can either go there or buy machineries or the company will deliver the machine within 30 days after fulfilling certain criteria which is much cheaper compared to the first option. About the glue and the chemical, it can be easily purchased from India. Diagrammatic representation of the whole process Firstly the raw materials for the proposed business are paper waste which will be easily available from schools, shops, household and offices. Paper waste includes books (text books, note books, magazines, etc), papers (newspapers, Kuensels, etc) and cartoon boxes which are useless. The second process is to collect them from the places mentioned above. These materials are also transported from different Dzongkhags to help keep environment clean and then the materials collected will be sorted out. The third process would be to clean the materials and recycle them to use for the next process. The fourth process will be to make the cleaned and recycled materials into pulp by using the chemicals and the glue. In the next process the pulp will be the raw material for the production process and it will go through various machines. There will be some more process namely, coloring the tissue into various colors and then the tissue will be cut into different sizes (refer appendix 1.ii) and this process will give the final output. SANGAY TISSUE will be produced as the finished good. After achieving the final product the tissue paper will be distributed to the customers such as shops, restaurants, hotels and individuals. It will be made known to the customers through advertisement on local channels, newspaper and internet where the business will create its own account or web page. Market analysis for SANGAY TISSUE Product description. Types of tissues. The types of tissues that SANGAY TISSUE will be producing are: Napkin (which will be mostly used by hotels and canteens) Toilet paper roll. Wet tissue (which will be produced in future) Types of packaging. Colour. Description/quantity Small Pink, White, Light blue, Yellow. The small package will contain 6 Number of toilet paper roll.(3 ply roll) Medium Pink, White, Light blue, Yellow. The medium package will contain 12 Numbers of toilet paper roll.(3 ply roll) Large Pink, white, Light blue, Yellow. The large package will contain 24 Numbers of toilet paper roll.(3 ply roll) The reason behind producing this particular product are: To use the waste paper in an efficient way. To reduce import and increase the export. To give value addition to the waste papers. To maintain healthy environment. 2) Target market SANGAY TISSUE production firm will be focusing 30% on hotels and 30% on restaurant as well. It is because more number of tissue paper is used by these two sectors. At present there are more number of hotels and restaurants in different Dzongkhags, in future there seem to be more restaurants and hotels coming up so that is why the business will sell 60% of its total product to restaurants and hotels. Another reason for selling more than half of the product to restaurants and hotels is that the amount of tissue is imported more by these sectors and the business’s target sectors are restaurants and hotels. 25% of the product will be available in the shops particularly in those Dzongkhags where there are more restaurants and hotels. From the shop anyone who wants to buy tissue paper can easily get it. Shops would be one of the channels of the proposed business to sell its product to the customers. 3) Competitive analysis The proposed business has many indirect competitors of tissue product that are imported from different countries (such as India, Thailand, China and etc) with price ranging from 25 to 55 and it is also available in different colors. The raw materials used by SANGAY TISSUE is the waste papers so therefore another indirect competitor can be the use of waste papers by the shopkeeper for the purpose of raping doma, the rural people using waste paper for sanitary purpose and the Greenery way using the waste materials for the recycling purposes. Marketing strategies 1. Product SANGAY TISSUE’s tissue paper will be eco-friendly tissue paper. This product will have no harm on the eco system since it will be entirely made by using waste paper so there is no cutting down of forest and moreover the raw materials used are the waste papers. There will be reduction in environment pollution because the proposed business will be making good use of all the waste papers. 2. Promotion In order to make SANGAY TEE PEE’s tissue paper known to the general public, the business will be distributing pamphlets to the people and the business will hire some dancers from the dance academy and attract many people through this process. At the end of the dance the employees of the business will distribute free samples to the people. The business will even advertise its product in the local channels. There will be a website created under the business’s name so that if anyone is interested in buying online, they can just contact the concerned people through it and get the product. There will also be free gifts provided when buying in bulk such as if anyone buys the large packet there will be a small packet free with it. 3. Place The product will be available from the retailers, wholesalers and shops. It will be available online on the company’s web site if the company generates sufficient revenue to diversify its operations efficiency. The business will also be selling the product directly to the customers. 4. Price The business will be demand oriented and competition oriented. The business will give more importance to the customer and focus on consumer taste and preferences. The business will use other competitors as a bench mark to fix the price of the product and will follow the pricing strategy of the competitors. 5. Exit strategy There is no guarantee that a business will be a success. If ever the proposed business fails or is not successful then the business will be liquidated in order to pay back the suppliers and the banks. The machineries will be sold to other production company who are carrying out the same production or the company will give the machineries in rent on monthly or yearly basis. The proposed business’s slogan Conclusion Since the intended business is operating within the country there will be creation of job opportunities for the Bhutanese people. By setting up of such business there will be reduction of import and the business can supply the product to the border area of India, which will help the government to generate the revenue. The resources for making tissues are unwanted waste of books or paper from offices and schools. There will be reduction in environment pollution because the proposed business will be making good use of all the waste papers. The business is focusing on recycling the waste paper and giving additional value to the waste which can be the competitive advantage for the business. The Product will have no harm on the eco system since it will be entirely made by using waste paper and won’t cut a single tree. So therefore due to this there are chances that the government may support the intended business like greener way company. The intended business has every opportunity to grow and expand in the future the company will tend to continue and expand with the team spirit and loyalty to customers with the quality product that the business is launching in the market. The product will give full satisfaction as it will satisfy the customers in matters of color, size, brand, technology and quality.

TO SPARE OR NOT TO SPARE: :: essays research papers

TO SPARE OR NOT TO SPARE: THAT IS THE ETHICAL QUESTION A twenty-something year old Caucasian male engineering student travels from Prescott, Arizona to Friendsville, Tennessee during his summer and winter breaks from school. The length of distance covered in one trip is about 1800 miles. He drives a 1968 Ford Mustang. This car is in need of restoration, but is all-original. Because he is alone, this student cannot stop at anywhere that is not public. Even a Rest Stop is too risky for a lone traveler. This student driver does not even drive at night. The dilemma begins at the half-way point of the trip, the middle of the Texas pan-handle on Interstate 40 East. This area has few gas stops and almost no rural or suburban areas. The student passes a car on the side of the road. This car is driving on a flat tire. Unfortunately the only safe option for this student is to continue down the road and pray for the person in distress. The student-driver stops for gas at the only stop for another 50 miles. Like most gas stops in this area, it stand s alone on this exit. The student-driver pumps gas into his car and goes inside to pay for the fuel. As the driver is about to leave, he is stopped by a 60 to 70 year old Caucasian male. This man has a flat tire. He recognizes the car that passed him earlier and asks for help. This man recognizes that the Mustang’s spare will fit his car, and he proceeds to ask the student if he would be willing to part with his spare. The moral dilemma begins. If the student gives the man the spare, his guilt for passing the man will be extinguished and it will be replaced with the satisfaction of helping another human being from being stranded. However, this would leave the student without a spare tire for the last 900 miles of his trip. The three ethical systems being used to respond to this moral dilemma are Kantism, Utilitarianism, and Epicurism. In this dilemma, there are two choices, and each system has its own way to respond. Kant would begin by criticizing the analysis of the consequences, because consequential ethics â€Å"lacks universality†, â€Å"leads to rules that violate our ordinary moral sensibility†, and â€Å"reverses the proper relationship between ethics and happiness.†(Symposia. 2005.

Amy Tans The Joy Luck Club Essay -- Essays Papers

Joy Luck Club The Joy Luck Club, by Amy Tan, is a powerful portrayal of four Chinese women and the lives of their children in America. The book discusses the conflicting cultures between the United States and China, and how men treat women throughout their lives. People living in the United States usually take for granted their roles as a male or female. The culture of each country shapes the treatment one receives based on the sex of the individual. There are obvious differences within the different cultures. These differences show themselves in the work force, the distinct tasks performed in the home, and the privileges one receives in society. In the work force, the women of America hold many positions of importance. They are usually treated as equals with men and there are few jobs from which they are excluded. In China, women are expected to stay at home and are not permitted to be in a work force that is held exclusively for men. The women of America receive fair wages and have earned the right to work with men. In China, women are assigned the role of housewives and must stay at home to clean the house and raise the children. Women in America receive educations that will prepare them for the high paying jobs of a professional. The women in China are known for taking orders from their husbands. Another feature that is found to be different in China from America is the different roles women take in the home. The author explains that a Chinese woman is expecte...

oppositional defiant disorder :: essays research papers

According to the DSM-IV, if a child's problem behaviors do not meet the criteria for Conduct Disorder, but involve a pattern of defiant, angry, antagonistic, hostile, irritable, or vindictive behavior, Oppositional Defiant Disorder may be diagnosed. These children may blame others for their problems. Oppositional Defiant Disorder is a pattern of negativistic, hostile, and defiant behavior lasting at least six months, during which four (or more) of the following are present: Often loses temper. Often argues with adults. Often actively defies or refuses to comply with adults' requests or rules. Often deliberately annoys people. Often blames others for his or her mistakes or misbehavior. Is often touchy or easily annoyed by others. Is often angry and resentful. Is often spiteful or vindictive. It is important to note that a counselor or therapist will consider a diagnosis of oppositional defiant disorder only if the behavior occurs more frequently than is typically observed in individuals of comparable age and developmental level. In other words, the problems and conflicts between teens and parents are as old as time itself, and some conflict is normal and inevitable. However, when the parent/child conflict becomes increasingly severe and appears to be spiraling out of control, then ODD might be considered. Also, as teens are growing and learning, they will sometimes do some very ill-advised things that can cause them problems, both legal and in school. However, if this behavior does not repeat itself and is a one-time event, then a behavior disorder is probably not present. For a diagnosis of ODD to be made, the disturbance in behavior must be causing significant problems in school, in relationships with family and friends, and in the workplace. ODD will not be diagnosed if the the therapist suspects that the teen's behaviors are being directly caused by another psychotic or mood disorder, such as bipolar disorder. oppositional defiant disorder :: essays research papers According to the DSM-IV, if a child's problem behaviors do not meet the criteria for Conduct Disorder, but involve a pattern of defiant, angry, antagonistic, hostile, irritable, or vindictive behavior, Oppositional Defiant Disorder may be diagnosed. These children may blame others for their problems. Oppositional Defiant Disorder is a pattern of negativistic, hostile, and defiant behavior lasting at least six months, during which four (or more) of the following are present: Often loses temper. Often argues with adults. Often actively defies or refuses to comply with adults' requests or rules. Often deliberately annoys people. Often blames others for his or her mistakes or misbehavior. Is often touchy or easily annoyed by others. Is often angry and resentful. Is often spiteful or vindictive. It is important to note that a counselor or therapist will consider a diagnosis of oppositional defiant disorder only if the behavior occurs more frequently than is typically observed in individuals of comparable age and developmental level. In other words, the problems and conflicts between teens and parents are as old as time itself, and some conflict is normal and inevitable. However, when the parent/child conflict becomes increasingly severe and appears to be spiraling out of control, then ODD might be considered. Also, as teens are growing and learning, they will sometimes do some very ill-advised things that can cause them problems, both legal and in school. However, if this behavior does not repeat itself and is a one-time event, then a behavior disorder is probably not present. For a diagnosis of ODD to be made, the disturbance in behavior must be causing significant problems in school, in relationships with family and friends, and in the workplace. ODD will not be diagnosed if the the therapist suspects that the teen's behaviors are being directly caused by another psychotic or mood disorder, such as bipolar disorder.

Organizational behavior Essay

1. Give examples of behaviors that provide evidence you possess at least two of these competencies. Does/will your possession of these competencies make you a better leader? Explain. An example of the evidence to the increasing reality that as a leader and someone entrusted to do persuasion in the kind of influence I do, I employ emotional competencies as well as insightful strategies. According to Kramer in Beyond Max Weber: Emotional Intelligence and public leadership, â€Å"relationships are the DNA of governance† which immediately brings to mind the full implication that it binds and runs public offices. I believe that I have what every leader would covet which is sufficient emotional intelligence. Kramer succinctly points to the American bureaucratic system and the failure to function effectively because the effects of individualism has tragically influenced and impacted people’s ability and interest to build and sustain relationships. The study by Kramer develops on the idea that the relationships mentioned hinge on the emotional competencies of people (Kramer website). 2. Identify at least one of these traits you would like to develop. Explain how a higher level of competency in this area could make you a better leader. I would like to develop this area further despite the fact that I somehow know that I have the natural ability to feel and understand people and get into their shoes. I need to know that leadership is also more than understanding people; it is also leading them to where they hardly are able to visualize to getting into. That is, helping them to transform their ideas into workable outputs towards individual and group attainments is a leadership trait that is still difficult to achieve by any manager and leader. 3. What is your overall opinion of this perspective? Should companies embrace this perspective? If so, what practical steps should they take to put it in practice? How can companies avoid any ethical issues associated with limitations? In Peter Northouse, author of Leadership: Theory and Practice observed the revival of an all-encompassing skills-based model of leadership distinguished by a map for how to reach efficient leadership in organizations (Northouse, 2004). He recommended that the classification of specific skills which can be improved by training has an intuitive appeal: â€Å"When leadership is framed as a set of skills, it becomes a process that people can study and practice to become better at their jobs† (Northouse, 2004). He also suggests that although the skills-based approach claims not to be a trait model, it includes individual attributes that look a great deal like traits. The act of leadership is also an exercise of moral reasoning. In their book Unmasking Administrative Evil, Guy Adams and Danny Balfour caution against elevating the scientific-analytical mindset higher than all other forms of rationality. Even as the rise of â€Å"technical rationality led inevitably to specialized, expert knowledge, the very life blood of the professional,† it also â€Å"spawned unintended consequences in the areas of morals and ethics as the science-based technical rationality undermined normative judgments and relegated ethical considerations to afterthoughts† (Adams & Balfour, 2004). Distinguished scholar Ronald Heifetz on the other hand, developed a definition of leadership that takes values into account. He maintains that we should look at leadership as more than a means to organizational effectiveness. Efficiency means getting achievable decisions that execute the goals of the organization. â€Å"This definition has the benefit of being generally applicable, but it provides no real guide to determine the nature or formation of those goals.† (Heifetz, 1994).   Heifetz went on to say that values such as â€Å"liberty, equality, human welfare, justice, and community† are inculcated with first-rate leaders (Heifetz, 1994). It is a necessity then, the infusion of these principles into the leader and from the leader into the organization.

Three things that happened in m life, and push me to stude

What is that challenge? How is work? Is that something I can stay home and it will come over to me? Is that something I can befit because my parents have it? My explanation about challenge could be different but I think it will work. Challenge is always people dreams but most do not complete it Challenge is your dream, is something you want died for, you sacrifice our life for You believe in, you spend all your time for, you borrow money for, you cut in your sleep for, and onetime you don't sleep for, First is work!When you want, when you decide to sacrifice you life for it, and will see how work is. No is not something you can stay home and it will come to you, is something you go looking for, no matter how bad it is outside no matter how bad the whether is you wake up with it in you head and get out looking for it, no matter how hard everything is for you go looking for it.No challenge is not something you could be befit from any parents, our parents could e rich and gives you what ever you want, you still need to know you need challenge , our parents can give you most time they have doesn't mean anything, you can have to put yourself out and looking for challenge Just like I did. Remember challenge is go back to school, or if you already at school fit for it, spend all your time on it, always have an your mine why you wake up early for? Why would you go to school for? Why would you do anything Jobs to survive?Why would you need to spend a lot of time in school for? Don't forget how much money you loose if you spend four years in college, and could save that money and go to work making more money, always ask yourself why would you do that for, and keep going in school you will see it, you will understand it, you will satisfy it, you will love it, you will say this is how challenge work. No matter how long it will take you , no matter how hard it is to do your homework, no matter how late you been , no matter how bad your grade is don't give up.

Capital structure

A review of capital structure theories 1. 0 Introduction One of the most contentious flnancial issues that have provoked intense academic research during the last decades is the theory of capital structure. Capital structure can be defined as a ‘Mix of different securities issued by a firm' (Brealey and Myers, 2003). Simply speaking, capital structure mainly contains two elements, debt and equity.In 1958, through combining tax and debt factors in a simple model to price the value of a company, Modigliani and Miller firstly begin to explore a modern capital structure theory, and their work inspired this area study. However, the MM theory has no practical use because It lacks of direct guidance for companies to determine capital structure In real Ilfe (Baxter, 1967; Sarlg and Warga, 1989; Vernimmen et al, 2005).During the past years, researchers strived to establish a more reasonable capital structure theory that can be put into practices efficiently, and they attempted to expand debt ratio and tax advantage factors Into a new area. Myers (1984) states that only practical capital structure theories, which Introducing adjustment cost that includes agency cost and information asymmetry problems, ould provide a useful guidance for firms to determine their capital structure.However, from recent studies, Myers (2001) believes that how information differences and agency costs Influence the capital structure Is still an open question. From this perspective, it is very important to review the development of these two factors which make theoretical research having a strong relationship with reality. Thus, this project will summarize the capital structure theories orientated by agency cost and asymmetric Information from extant literature. Also some gaps and conflicts among heories of capital structure will be found and discussed In order to further Improve this area study.The rest of this project is arranged as follows. Section 2 will present the theories based on a gency costs that causes the conflicts between equity holders and debt holders or managers. Section 3 will Illustrate from two areas, Interplay of capital structure and Investment, followed by signal effect of debt ratio, to show the theories based on asymmetric information. In conclusion, Section 4 will summarize the entire essay and suggest further research direction of capital structure theory. 0 Capital structure theories based on agency costs Although Berry and Means (1931, cited in Myers, 2001) state an adverse relationship between the separated ownership and corporate control status, it commonly admits that Jensen and Meckling (1976) firstly conducted the research in how agency costs determine capital structure (Harris and Ravlv, 1991 Over the past decades, researchers have tried to add agency costs to capital structure models (Harris and Raviv, 1991). The perfect alignment between firm investors and firm agencies, such as managers, does not exist (Myers, 2001 ).According to J ensen and Meckling (1976), company agents, the managers, always emphasize on their own interests, such as high salary and reputation. Also these company agents use ‘entrenching investments', which make the asset and capital structure orientated by the 1 OF3 company holders (Chen and Kensinger, 1992). However, Myers (2001) believes that the firm holders can reduce such transferred value through using different kinds of methods of control and supervising, but he further points out the weakness that these methods are expensive and reduce returns.As a result, the perfect monitoring system is out of work, and agency costs are produced from these conflicts. According to Jensen and Meckling (1976), the conflicts between investors and agencies are generally divided into two types. The first conflict occurs between debt holders and equity holders, and the second conflict is from between equity holders and managers. Consequently, all the capital structure theories based on agency costs can be also classified based on these two conflicts. In the rest of this section, each individual conflict will be separately discussed. 1 Conflicts between Debt holders and Equity holders Jensen and Meckling (1976) point out that agency costs problems happen in determining the structure of a firms' capital when the conflict between debt holders and equity holders is caused by debt contracts. Similar to Jensen and Meckling's conclusion, Myers (1977) observes that since equity holders bear the whole cost of the investment and debt holders get the main part of the profits from the investment, equity holders may have no interest in investing in value-increasing businesses when ompanies are likely to face bankruptcy in the short term future.Thus, if debt occupies a large part of firms' capital, it will lead to the rejection of investing in more value-increased business projects. However, in 1991, Harris and Raviv cast a contrasting opinion to adjust the capital structure theory based on this conflict. They point out that most debt contracts give equity holders a push power to invest sub- optimally investment project. If the investment fails, due to limited liability, debt holders bear the consequences of a decline of the debt value, but equity holders get ost of yields if the investment could generate returns above the debt par value.In order to prevent debt holders from receiving unfair treatment, equity holders normally get less for the debt than original expectation from debt holders. Thus, the agency costs are created by equity holders who issue the debt rather than debt holders' reason (Harris and Raviv, 1991). Tradeoff capital structure theory has a basic and strong relationship with this type of agency costs. However, different researchers hold various explanations of the relationship.Myers (1977) points out the debt cost eason, Green (1984) announces that convertible bonds can reduce the asset substitution problem which comes from the tradeoff theory, Stul z and Johnson (1985) consider about collateral effect. In the end, only Diamond model (1989) is widely accepted. If Equity holders do not consider reputational reason, they are willing to trade relatively safe projects, but this activity will lead to less debt financing (Diamond, 1989; Mike et al, 1997). Diamond model (1989) assumes two tradeoffs, risky and risk-free, to show that the debt repayment should consider both possible nvestment plans.Furthermore, Mike et al (1997) use empirical evidence to indicate how to use debt to trade off these two optional investment plans. Moreover, in 1991, Harris and Raviv expanded Diamond's model to three investment choices. They point out that one choice of investment can only contain the risk-free project, one option In fact, since the reputation factor is vital for a manager, managers are willing to choose risk-free investment projects that have more possibility of success. Consequently, the amount of debt is often reduced by managers. Capital Structure CAPITAL STRUCTUREQ1. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (MRQ)The cost of equity is higher than the cost of debtWACC is inversely proportional to the market valueAn increase in the cost of equity leads to an increase in share price Debt is less risky as interest is always received but paid at last in an event of liquidation (2 marks) Q2. Which of the following statements is not a part of the traditional theory of capital structure? (MCQ)There must be no taxes as it's a perfect capital market As the gearing level increases it's an indication of an increase in the cost of debt When the cost of equity increases the effect is translated on to the gearing level of the company resulting in its decreaseThe WACC will be at optimum when the market value of the company is at its lowest (2 marks) Q3. The Manager of Alpha believes that there is an optimal balance of debt and equity. The Manager of Zeta believes that the gearing decisions have no effect on the business value. Which theories are the managers relating to? (P&D)Manager Alpha Manager Zeta MM THEORY(with Tax) MM THEORY(without Tax) TRADITIONAL THEORY(2 marks) Q4. Select the appropriate option in relation to the capital market. (HA)Taxes are inapplicable PERFECT MARKET IMPERFECT MARKETHigh chances of bankruptcy PERFECT MARKET IMPERFECT MARKETBorrowing is up to a limited level PERFECT MARKET IMPERFECT MARKET(2 marks) Q5. Which of the following relates to the high level of gearing? (MRQ)Agency CostTax ExhaustionDifferences in risk tolerance levels between shareholders and directorsNo borrowing limits are specified(2 marks) Q6. Bache Co. leaves its operating risk unchanged after including the increased debt finance in its capital structure. Which of the following correctly describes the effect on the company's cost of capital and market value assuming perfect capital market with corporation tax? (HA)WACC INCREASE DECREASE UNAFFECTEDCost of Equity INCREASE DECREASE UNAFFECTEDTotal market value INCREASE DECREASE UNAFFECTED(2 marks) Q7. Rearrange the hierarchy of sources of finance for Pecking Order Theory? (P;D) Preference Shares 1Equity Finance 2Straight Debt 3Retained Earning 4Convertible Debt 5(2 marks) Q8. Quarto Co is considering acquiring Datum Co. Quarto Co wants to use its own cost of capital but is confused as in which circumstances their weighted average cost capital will remain unchanged. Which of the following is/are appropriate circumstances? (MRQ)Historic proportions of debt and equity are not to be changedOperating Risk of the company remains unchangedThe acquired company is small that any changes are insignificantProjects are financed from a pool of funds(2 marks) Q9. Eduardo Co is an all-equity financed company which wishes to invest in the new project in a new business area. Its existing equity beta is 1.4. The debt to equity ratio is 35% and 65% respectively ; the average equity beta for the new business area is 1.9. The government security in the market gives a return of 4% and market risk premium is 3%. If the tax is ignored, what is the risk-adjusted cost of equity for the new project using the capital asset pricing model? (MCQ) 6.73%7.71%8.2%9.7%(2 marks) Q10. Identify the weaknesses of risk-adjusted the weighted average cost of capital? (MCQ)It is difficult to identify similar operating characteristics of other firms Estimates of beta are wholly accurate Betas may differ due to debt capital being risk-free It ignores earning a potential of the company (2 marks)Q11. Arco Co has an equity beta of 0.89 and it is being considered to be acquiring by Draco Co. Arco Co is financed by 79% equity and Draco Co is financed by 80% equity. Calculate the Risk-adjusted beta if the tax rate in the market is 30% up to two decimal places? (FIB)4521202667000Be (2 marks) Q12. What is the correct procedure for calculating risks adjusted the weighted average cost of capital? (P;D)Converting proxy asset beta into risk-adjusted beta using investing company capital structure 1Calculate the risk-adjusted weighted average cost of capital 2Converting proxy equity beta into asset beta 3Calculate the risk-adjusted cost of equity 4(2 marks) Q13. Tito ; Toto are identical in every respect apart from their capital structure. Tito has a debt: equity ratio of 1:4 and an equity beta of 1.6. Toto has a debt: equity ratio of 2:6. Corporation tax is 30%. What is an appropriate equity beta for Toto? (MCQ)2.563.934.224.51(2 marks)CAPITAL STRUCTURE (ANSWERS)Q1. The cost of equity is higher than the cost of debt ; WACC is inversely proportional to the market value are correct statements.An increase in the cost of equity leads to a decrease in share price rather than increasing the share price as WACC increases market value decreases, hence incorrect Debt is less risky as interest is always received but paid at last in an event of liquidation. In the event of liquidation banks are paid first as they are creditors with fixed charges, hence statement is incorrect. Q2. DThere must be no taxes as it's a perfect capital market (Correct)As the gearing level increases it's an indication of an increase in the cost of debt (Correct) When the cost of equity increases the effect is translated on to the gearing level of the company resulting in its decrease (Correct) The WACC will be at optimum when the market value of the company is at its lowest. The market value should be at its highest to make WACC at the optimum level which it is at the lowest, hence the statement is incorrect Q3. Manager Alpha TRADITIONAL THEORYManager Zeta MM THEORY(without Tax)Traditional theory states that WACC will be optimum when it's at the lowest pointMM (with Tax) states there is no need for a balance of equity and debt assuming 100% gearing is optimal MM (without Tax) states WACC is unaffected as the benefit received from debt cancels with the cost of equity Q4.Taxes are inapplicable PERFECT MARKET High chances of bankruptcy IMPERFECT MARKETBorrowing is up to a limited level IMPERFECT MARKET Q5.Agency Cost: Providers of debt finance are likely to impose restrictive covenants hence is a problem due to high gearing (Correct) Tax Exhaustion: As companies increase their gearing they may reach a certain point where there are not enough profits from which to obtain all available tax benefits hence is a problem due to high gearing (Correct)Differences in risk tolerance levels between shareholders and directors: The directors have high risk in the company rather than shareholders as they have well-diversified portfolios hence is a problem due to high gearing (Correct)No borrowing limits are specified: Restrictions are specified in the articles of association for company's ability to borrow hence the statement is not related to high gearing (Incorrect) Q6. WACC DECREASE Cost of Equity INCREASE Total market value INCREASE In a perfect capital market, the theories of Modigliani ; Miller on gearing apply Q7.Retained Earning 1Straight Debt 2Convertible Debt 3Preference Shares 4Equity Financing 5 Q8. All options are correct as under all circumstances the company can use its own weighted average cost of capital. Q9. B(A) De-gearing the equity beta of Eduardo Co Ba= 1.4 Ãâ€" 0.65 = 0.91Ke= 4 + (3 Ãâ€" 0.91) = 6.73%(B) De-gearing the equity beta of the new business gives Ba= [0.65 à · (0.65+0.35)] Ãâ€"1.9 = 1.235Ke= 4 + (3 Ãâ€" 1.235) = 7.71% (C) Using equity beta of Eduardo Co. Ke= 4 + (3 Ãâ€" 1.4) = 8.2%(D) Using the de-geared average equity beta Ke= 4 + (3 Ãâ€" 1.9) = 9.7% This means the new average equity beta for the new business area was not de-geared Q10. AIt is difficult to identify similar operating characteristics of other firms (Weakness) Estimates of beta are wholly inaccurate Betas may differ due to debt capital not being risk free It ignores earning potential of the company (Disadvantage of DVM) Q11. Be = 0.88Ba = [79 à · (79 + (21 Ãâ€" {1-30%})] Ãâ€" 0.89 = 0.750.75 = [80 à · (80 + (20 Ãâ€" {1-30%})] Ãâ€" Be Be = 0.88 Q12. Converting proxy equity beta into asset beta 1Converting proxy asset beta into risk-adjusted beta using investing company capital structure 2Calculate the risk-adjusted cost of equity 3Calculate risk-adjusted weighted average cost of capital 4 Q13. CBa = [4 à · (4 + (1 Ãâ€" {1-30%})] Ãâ€" 1.6 = 1.361.36 = [2 à · (2 + (6 Ãâ€" {1-30%})] Ãâ€" Be Be = 4.22

Qantas Airlines

Adel Dosmagambetova Maslow`s hierarchy There are always some points when we are talking about service and especially hospitality industry. When we serve our product, what our customers expect from us is our main purpose to provide. The company has to correlate the ability of their service and the expectations of their customers. They measure their product and customers` needs. (Anton & Petouhoff 1996)There are no doubts that matching both sides expectation we can provide satisfaction for our clients. However it is not always possible to satisfy all needs of your customer.Maslow`s hierarchy was created to show theory of needs in the psychology way and make a connection between each stages. Maslow used the terms Physiological, Safety, Belongingness and Love, Esteem, and Self-Actualization needs to describe the pattern that human motivations generally move through. (King,2009). We have analyzed our company and divided its needs into 5 main features. Qantas(Queensland and Northern Territ ory Aerial Services) is one of the oldest air company in the world, KLM is the only company elder.They provide their services over 90 years and the politic of this global, world famous company show us their ability to build and keep in touch with generations and customers expectation. The first stage of the hierarchy is physiological needs which include comfort of their customers, the second is their safety, the third is quality of service, the forth one is an image of the airways and the last one is self-actualization included personal experience. As it is mentioned above, first of all they provide comfortable seats, high quality food and straight flights, if it is possible.Qantas makes domestic and international ways as well, their flights operates to 56 metropolitans. However they don`t only specialized on air-service, they also have catering and Qantas holiday, where they provide high ranking service and unforgettable feelings. (About Qantas, 2012) The second stage is flexible s chedules, security of their belongings and their safety for sure. Qantas guarantees their customer their safety during the flights, security of their luggage and other belongings.They tried to make schedules maximum comfortable for every customer, counting that they usually make long-distance flights and their market is built by far-away flying. The third one is high quality services, with positive staffs, comfortable airports selection good matching places. For feeling welcomed for every customer they provide good service on their planes and they make training for their staff and even order branded uniforms. Airport is the first place where you get before or after flying and of course customer expect excellent services and suitable selections.It is great thing to be connected with one of the most famous and respected airports. The fourths stage one is about reputation of the airways. The customer wants being protection and perfect served, opinions and reputation of the chosen airli nes. They expect the company to promote them a high quality standards and popularity all over the world . â€Å"Success is getting what you want and happiness is liking what you get. †(Brown, 1992) To enhance the company`s reputation and branding Qantas has developed innovative and marketing ideas to boost sales by upgrading their planes and improve quality of advertising.To end with self-actualization we choose experience of Qantas` customer. The company provides unique types of services and make the flights for customer perfect. They try to show customer that with Qantas` they and their belongings in safety, and nowhere else customer will get such services. They make their experience by providing satisfactions of customer experience which allow them to fly only with Qantas and even special tariffs and Qantas club are support for them to fly Qantas.References list: Dr. Jon Anton & Dr. Natalie L. Petouhoff (1996) Customer relationship management. Skyway Drive, Santa Maria, An ton press Paul W. King. (2009) Climbing Maslow`s pyramid choosing your own path through life. Matlock Bath, Derbyshire, DB, United Kingdom H. Jackson Brown from the book Climbing Maslow pyramid. Matlock Bath, Derbyshire, DB, United Kingdom About Qantas, Retrieved from official web-site http://www. qantas. com. au/travel/airlines/home/au/en

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Ecological Economics - Essay Example Hanley et al. (1996) argues that it is only when people satisfy their financial needs that they remember the non-renewable characteristic of natural resources. The problem in the Niger Delta escalates as a result of humans focusing on the economic gains derived from exploitation of the oil reserves, disregarding the consequences on environment. The petro-business is a significant source of government revenue. Oil extraction largely affects the environment through oil spills from the high pressure pipelines that cross through the villages. The inhabitants of these villages are aware of the dangers posed to their health by the oil spills and also know that the companies involved reap huge benefits from the oil business (Ibeanu, 2000). They are aggrieved by the fact that they do not get a share of what they believe are their own resources. Environmental pollution and injuries on the community members result from the activities of the petroleum companies, which emphasize on their right t o extract the resources without disturbance especially considering the industry’s contribution to government revenue. People use natural resources the way they do because of varied reasons especially if the goods serve the interests of more than one group. Unless there are rules to curtail the overuse of the resources, there is usually a high risk of depletion (Acheson et al. 2006). The owners of the oil companies believe that they have a right to extract oil because they contribute a great deal to the economy.

Islam Religion Field Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Islam Religion Field - Research Paper Example It is partially due to the very reality that faith in the Supreme Being is in the basic human instinct, which could not be denied or ignored altogether. â€Å"The critical difference between a religious and non-religious person is the acceptance of the transcendent, or otherworldliness, as the first reality. The transcendent provides a vehicle for meaning outside life itself and because, to the religious person, it has ontological primacy over the material world it provides a solid grounding.† (Prevos, 2005:3) Hence, religion gives meaning to human life, by making people oriented with the morality, ethics, values and systematic patterns of acting, reacting and behaving while entering into interaction with the social and natural environment. Thousands of religious belief systems exist on the face of the mother-earth, which maintain several similarities and differences from one another in nature, scope and teachings. In the long list of countless beliefs, Abrahamic faiths, inclu ding Judaism, Christianity and Islam, are quite distinguishing ones from the rest, and seek inspiration from one and the same light. Not only this that the Holy Scriptures of these three faiths narrate the same tales, but also all the three share one and the same mythology including the Oneness of God, existence of the holy prophets, angels, heaven and hell, Day of Resurrection and life after death., and reward and punishment on the concrete foundations of the deeds and misdeeds performed and committed respectively during their stay on earth as mortals. Although the Abrahamic religions are similar to one another in different ways, the followers of these faiths abhor each other and observe serious reservations on the basis of the misconceptions they have developed for one another without conducting any in-depth research on the philosophy and doctrine of purported rival faiths. It is therefore all the three Abrahamic faiths appear to be at daggers drawn against one another, where slig htest space of displaying tolerance towards one another has turned out to be a dream particularly during the contemporary times. The same was the situation with me, as being the true follower of the Christian faith, I viewed Islam as the religion consisted of extremists and fundamentalists, which condemned and censured people’s mixing up with the Jews and Christians as well as developing cordial social and corporate relationships with them at any cost. I also view the Muslims as hard-hearted nation, which looks down upon the others by declaring them pagans, atheists and infidels. Keeping in mind all these reservations, I decided to attend a religious gathering arranged and organized by the Muslims for some spiritual and moral purpose, so that I could have personal experience of the teachings and behavior adopted and observed by the Muslims. Though I had developed the very idea that interviewing some religious person at an Islamic center might bring some alteration in my estab lished onion about the Muslims, yet attending of the gathering brought revolutionary changes in my views about the community I had maintained serious reservations in past, and I returned from there carrying new image about Islam and Muslims at large. Last week I visited a mosque, situated in my city during the month of Ramadan, the ninth month according to the Islamic calendar. The month is reserved for fasting, and the Muslims keep fast the entire month from dawn to the sunset. However, the Shiite Muslims break their fast after ten minutes of sunset, as they argue that the sunset completes after seven to ten minutes of the apparent disappearance of the sun. Somehow,

Philosophies of the East Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Philosophies of the East - Essay Example Hinduism as a philosophic creed has had no known founder, and there are no standard set of doctrines other than those in the Vedas and the Upanishads, universally accepted by all followers, and this may seem a disadvantage when compared to Confucianism and Buddhism. But when seen closely, it appears that Hinduism grapples with concepts of a different philosophical significance than Confucianism, because Hinduism deals with the nature of creation itself, whereas the other deals with the Way, a Way of worldly human life on the material plane alone. Buddhism, of course had a founding father in Gautam Buddha, many of whose given precepts are strikingly similar to that of Hinduism. Hinduism accepts that absolute reality is One, the Brahman, the various gods, demi-gods and the entire creation is Its expression. The human soul Atman is a part of It but is separated from It by a veil of ego and ignorance in the samsara, the world. The more the ego and ignorance, the more the reincarnations, in each of which the soul goes through various kinds of physical and mental suffering due to his or her Karma, or action and desires. Good karma brings the soul closer to Nirvana, or salvation from the cycle of rebirths, and bad karma and material desires drag it back down into the cycle.It is good human action and lack of material desires that can achieve salvation. On the other hand, human suffering can be understood in terms of bad past Karma, or human actions in a previous life. The Atman works out its Karma in an atmosphere of Lila or Maya, the history of the world and humans, which is in fact an illusion. Human life, then, is the journey of the Atman wherein humans try to control both the mind and the senses and become Brahman-oriented in the hope of experiencing total fulfillment in oneness with God or Brahman. Hindu philosophy allows for various ways to achieve Nirvana and over the ages various philosophers from Nagarjuna, Ramanuja, Sankara and the modern day Aurobindo Ghosh have offered their own interpretations. Buddhism is quite similar in its approach. Buddha's concern with the cause of human suffering led him to determine the Eightfold Path of human thought, speech, action, contemplation and mindfulness which is the way human beings can be free of all desires and suffering and attain Nirvana. Moreover, upadana or "clinging to existence" should be relinquished because existence in this world is illusory, and it is important to achieve a silence of body, mind and word. But unlike Hinduism, Buddhism does not believe in a divine creator or in divine salvation; the problem of suffering is one that humans must cope with themselves. Confucianism, on the other hand, is not concerned with the other world or rebirths at all. Direct human action is the only way human beings can better themselves according to Confucius. Human beings can gain wisdom through experience and study, following a set of principles which dictate positive action, helping others, and gaining their respect in a non-coercive fashion. Confucius held that it is possible to become a superior man through constant practice of the principles he set out, and his philosophy had much to do with political codes and family life as well. Confucius did not feel that human life and existence is governed by a fixed and eternal transcendental principle that stands outside and above events and determines them: human