Two Questions 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Two Questions 3 - Essay Example Because of his inability to exert proper cost control, Lopez was relieved of his responsibilities in 2008, and Gabriella Garcia became head of Consumer Products Research. Garcia vowed to improve the performance of CPR and scaled back CPR’s development activities to obtain favorable financial performance reports. In terms of profit, Garcia did a better job than Lopez as a result of scaling back the project development. When profits are low and management is looking to cut costs, spending significant amounts of money on research and development is not the appropriate tactic. R&D is expensive and, as the timeline of two years from project initiation to implementation under Lopez demonstrates, there is no return on investment reflected in the financial statements until well after the products are brought to market. During times of low profit margins, development has to be scaled along with cost initiatives to keep management and investors satisfied. Even though Lopez developed good ideas, his efforts at cost control failed because there was no actual cost cutting and no immediate impact on revenues. While it could be argued that, given enough time, Lopez’s management would have yielded greater profits at lower costs. Management’s focus on profitability, however, precluded the comp any’s ability to focus on R&D to the extent that Lopez intended. Garcia, however, reduced—but did not eliminate—development while simultaneously focusing on cutting the costs related to current market offerings. This had an immediate impact on the company’s profitability and management was no-doubt pleased with the results. The issue here was time. It does take time to develop innovative products and bring them to market. This effort, however, cannot be the sole focus unless the company is currently in a strong financial position and can absorb the R&D costs until the new products are in place. Simply stated, the company could not afford

Art essay Essay Example for Free

Art essay Essay Does art imitate life – or is it the other way around? Traditionally, we have believed that art imitates life. The painter represents what he or she sees by producing a scene on a canvas. The sculptor does the same with bronze or stone. A photographer or film maker does it even more directly. A writer describes life in his or her books. This simple concept is known as mimesis. But some have questioned the one-way nature of mimesis by arguing that art also changes the way we view the world, and in fact, life sometimes imitates art rather than the other way around. The person who first articulated this belief effectively was Oscar Wilde. Speaking about the foggy conditions in London in the late 19th century, he wrote that the way we perceive them changed because of art. Referring to the wonderful brown fogs that come creeping down our streets, blurring the gas lamps and turning houses into shadows he argued that poets and painters have taught [people] the loveliness of such effects. According to Wilde, They did not exist till Art had invented them. [pic] And you don’t have to look too far to see anti-mimesis in our lives. To what extent is our outlook on life altered by ideas we read in books? The portrayal of people in films? The styles we see in fashion photography? One great example of this is the TV series The Sopranos, and how it affected both the Mafia in the USA and the FBI. Art’s influence on society: propaganda and censorship Throughout history, it has always been the case that art has the power to change society, especially when new media are used to express an idea. During the First World War, for example, movie cameras were used for the first time to record trench warfare – when the film was shown in cinemas in Britain, audiences ran out screaming. This led to the government censoring further such use of such a powerful medium. And in government censorship, and use of art as propaganda, we see how seriously governments take the effect of art. All of the major dictators of the C20th understood the power of art to influence the population. In Nazi Germany, Hitler set up the Ministry of Propaganda and National Enlightenment. It was headed by Goebbels, who made sure that nothing was published, performed, or exhibited without his approval. [pic]When this happens, you know there isn’t going to be a happy ending And what Goebbels approved, of course, only fit in with Nazi ideology and ideas. In terms of art, this meant no modern and abstract art, certainly nothing hostile to the regime, and nothing that featured images other than the stereotypical blonde-haired, blue eyed set in idyllic pastoral scenes of blissful happiness. [pic] [pic] In Stalinist Russia, there was also a keen understanding of the power of art. Art portrayed contented peasants, industrious workers, and Stalin himself. In fact, Stalin was shown god-like in many paintings, a phenomenon known as the Cult of Stalin. Just as in Germany, gigantic architectural projects expressed the power of the state. [pic] [pic] However, there is no doubt that in Russia there were greater artistic achievements than in Nazi Germany. Composers worked with fewer hindrances – as seen in the works by Prokoviev and Shostakovich, and film-makers such as Eisenstein emerged. Art’s influence on society: the trial of Lady Chatterley’s Lover But even under less oppressive governments, the artistic expression of certain ideas can be subject to control. One great example is the book ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’ by DH Lawrence, which was deemed offensive on many levels. In this book, Constance Reid, a woman from a progressive liberal middle class family marries a minor member of the aristocracy, Lord Clifford Chatterley, and takes the title ‘Lady Chatterley’. But her husband is injured in the First World War, confined to a wheelchair, and left impotent. Despite this, he becomes a successful writer and businessman. It is more his obsession with financial success and fame rather than any physical difficulties which come between him and his wife, and she begins an affair with their gamekeeper, Oliver Mellors. The largely aristocratic ‘establishment’ of Britain at the time – the book was published in Italy in 1928 were shocked by many aspects of the book. First, there was the fact that the book was ‘obscene’, in the way it went into explicit detail the affair that took place (see below). Second, there was the fact that a women was breaking her marriage vows, something considered far worse than a man behaving in the same way. Finally, it represented an intimate relationship between a member of the ‘lower’ classes (although it emerges during the story that Mellors is actually well-educated, and became an officer in the army during the First World War) and the ‘upper’ classes, a concept that was totally taboo in Britain at that time. The book was duly banned. [pic] But the book was republished by Penguin books in 1960. The attorney general, Reginald Manningham-Buller (dubbed ‘Bullying-Manners’ by the journalist and author Bernard Levin) had to read only four chapters to decide to prosecute Penguin books for publishing it. What annoyed him was not just the content, but the fact that the price of the book meant it was affordable to women and members of the lower classes (remember that only few women worked at this time, and husbands were generally in charge of family finances). The trial was a disaster for Manningham-Buller and the prosecution. They had failed to find any experts to support their case, in stark contrast to Penguin’s defence team, which had brought in authors, journalists, academics, and even members of the clergy to defend the book. Manningham-Buller and his team had very little idea of what Lawrence had been trying to express in his book, regularly being caught out by the superior insight of the witnesses they were trying to catch out. And although they tried to shock the jury – in his opening speech, Manningham-Buller announced: The word fuck or fucking appears no less than 30 times . . . Cunt 14 times; balls 13 times; shit and arse six times apiece; cock four times; piss three times, and so on. they were unable to prove that the book would have a negative influence on the readers it was aimed at. According to the Guardian: No other jury verdict in British history has had such a deep social impact. Over the next three months Penguin sold 3m copies of the book – an example of what many years later was described as the Spycatcher effect, by which the attempt to suppress a book through unsuccessful litigation serves only to promote huge sales. The jury – that iconic representative of democratic society – had given its imprimatur to ending the taboo on sexual discussion in art and entertainment. Within a few years the stifling censorship of the theatre by the lord chamberlain had been abolished, and a gritty realism emerged in British cinema and drama. (Saturday Night and Sunday Morning came out at the same time as the unexpurgated Lady Chatterley, and very soon Peter Finch was commenting on Glenda Jacksons tired old tits in Sunday Bloody Sunday and Ken Tynan said the first fuck on the BBC. ) Homosexuality was decriminalised, abortions were available on reasonable demand, and in order to obtain a divorce it was unnecessary to prove that a spouse had committed the matrimonial crime of adultery. Judges no longer put on black caps to sentence prisoners to hang by the neck until dead. Can we say, though, that it was art in this case that changed society, or was it an interaction between human sciences (ie, the law) and the arts (the book) that led to change? This is from the same Guardian article: †¦the message of Lady Chatterleys Lover, half a century after the trial, is that literature in itself does no harm at all. The damage that gets attributed to books – and to plays and movies and cartoons – is caused by the actions of people who try to suppress them. See: The trial of Lady Chatterleys Lover The effect of art: presentation [pic] What other piece of art has profoundly changed the way we view the world? And was it the art that did it, or the way it was used that made the impact? Use the link below to help you introduce to us an influential piece of art. Think about the type of change it wrought, for example, ethical, social, metaphysical, etc.

The Theme of Escape in The Glass Menagerie Essay examples -- essays re

The Theme of Escape in The Glass Menagerie In The Glass Menagerie, Tennessee Williams uses the theme of escape to help drive the play forward. None of the characters are capable of living in the real world. Laura, Amanda, Tom and Jim use various methods to escape the brutalities of life. Laura retreats into a world of glass animals and old records. Amanda is obsessed with living in her past. Tom escapes into his world of poetry writing and movies. Jim also reverts to his past and remembers the days when he was a high school hero. Mr. Wingfield is referred to often throughout the play. He is the ultimate symbol of escape. This is because he has managed to remove himself from the desperate situation that the rest of the family is still living in. The fire escape helps develop the theme of the story. This entrance into the apartment provides a different purpose for each of the characters. The fire escape allows Tom the opportunity to escape the apartment and get away from his nagging mother. Amanda sees the fire escape as an opportunity for gentleman callers to enter their lives. Laura's view is different from her mother and her brother. Her escape seems to be hiding inside the apartment, not out. Laura finds herself escaping at every turn. She induces sickness in her typing class and even as a gentleman caller waits in the living room. Another escape for Laura is her glass menagerie. Her collection of glass represents her own private world set apart from reality, a place wh...

Dietary Fiber Analysis Health And Social Care Essay

Fiber is categorized into soluble and indissoluble fibre. Soluble fibre includes pectins, mucilages, gums, and storage polyoses. Soluble fibre has shown to hold positive effects on glucose metamorphosis that are partially attributed to the increased viscousness of luminal contents. It causes delayed gastric voidance, which account for around 35 % of the discrepancy in extremum glucose concentrations after consuming glucose. It besides reduces the rate of glucose diffusion through the H2O bed. The most of import factor in respects to glycemic consequence is soluble fibre ‘s ability to increase viscousness and organize gel-like stools. Soluble fibre besides becomes fermented in the colon and outputs short-chain fatty acids. It is thought that these short concatenation fatty acids may be good to lipid metamorphosis and cardiovascular disease bar ( Pittler and Ernst 2004 ; Papathanasopoulos and Camilleri 2010 ) . â€Å" In experimental clinch surveies, soluble dietetic fibre besides influences peripheral glucose uptake mechanisms, including increased skeletal musculus look of the insulin- responsive glucose transporter type, which enhanced skeletal musculus consumption, augmenting insulin sensitiveness and normalising blood glucose degrees. In worlds, several fatty acids stimulate look of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor, which increases degrees of adipocyte glucose † Insoluble fibre includes cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin. Insoluble fibre does acquire fermented in the colon, but it attracts H2O which increases faecal majority, softening, and defecation. The chief consequence of indissoluble fibre in respects to glycemia is heightened insulin sensitiveness. â€Å" Changes in intestine microbiota have been implicated, in position of ascertained microbiota differences between corpulent and thin topics, reduced Gram-negative bacterial content with diets high in dietetic fibre as opposed to high-fat diets, and experimental informations demoing insulin opposition develops after daily hypodermic injections of Gram-negative bacterial lipopolysaccharides. A test of whole grain in healthy adult females showed accelerated GIP and insulin response and improved postprandial glycemia during the undermentioned twenty-four hours. † The aim of the first survey was to find the extent to which Beta-Glucan reduces the glycemic index ( GI ) of oat merchandises and whether high degrees of Beta-Glucan impair palatableness. The survey wanted to find if there was a nexus between low GI nutrients and direction of Type Two Diabetes ( DM II ) . Sixteen trial topics were selected from a pool of patients at St. Michaels Diabetes Clinic with HbA1 degrees within 5.5 % – 8.5 % , with one exclusion of a patient that had 11.4 % HbA1. Ten participants were male and 6 were female, with an mean BMI of 29. All were diagnosed with DM II. Thirteen participants were treated with unwritten agents, and 3 used diet entirely. The breakfast cereal and a bite saloon ‘s which were enriched with extra b-glucans to bring forth a low glycemic index oat bran merchandise. Three tests were conducted with the breakfast cereal and bite saloon, utilizing the mean step of the postprandial glucose degrees. The consumer ‘s postprandial glucose degrees in response to white staff of life served as the control. This survey showed that when topics with type 2 diabetes consumed extruded breakfast cereals incorporating different degrees of oat bran dressed ore ( 8, 10.3 and 12.5g % b-glucan ) , decreases in postprandial glycemia ranged from 33 % to 62 % . This survey is done in a similar format to ours ; nevertheless it merely compared postprandial glucose degrees in response to beta-glucan enriched nutrients to white staff of life. Our survey is comparing a pure fibre addendum of Fleawort to an equal dietetic fibre repast. Besides, our trial topics will non hold diabetes. ( Jenkins, Kendall et al. 2008 ) The 2nd survey that was most similar to ours was conducted to see the benefits of syrupy fibre in topics who were insulin resistant. Dietary fibre has late received acknowledgment for cut downing the hazard of developing diabetes and bosom disease. The deduction is that it may hold curative benefit in pre-diabetic metabolic conditions. To prove this hypothesis, this survey investigated the consequence of supplementing a high-carbohydrate diet with fibre from Konjac-Mannan ( KJM ) on metabolic control in topics with insulin opposition syndrome. KJM is derived from Konjac, which is a sweet yam from the Araceae household with the botanical name: Amorphophallus spp. Two hundred and 78 topics between the ages of 45 and 65 old ages were screened from the Canadian-Maltese Diabetes Study. A sum of 11 ( age 55 A ± 4 old ages, BMI 28 A ± 1.5 kg/m2 ) were recruited who met the standards: impaired glucose tolerance, reduced HDL cholesterin, elevated serum triglycerides, and moderate high blood pressure. After an 8-week control-trial, they were indiscriminately assigned to take either KJM fibre enriched trial biscuits with 0.5 g of glucomannan per 100 kcal or wheat bran fibre control biscuits for two 3-week intervention periods separated by a 2-week washout. In this cross-over survey, the diets had the same sum of energy, were metabolically controlled, and conformed to National Cholesterol Education Program Step 2 guidelines. Serum lipoids, glycemic control, and blood force per unit area were measured in each test. During the experimental hebdomads, participants received absolutely portioned and packaged nutrients delivered to their work or place. These repasts were absolutely portioned with macro-nutrients in indistinguishable ratios. The Calories of each repast were tailored to run into the demands of each person, with fibre being 1.5g/ 100 kcals of nutrient. These two groups merely differed in the facet of KJM flour or the control, wheat bran flour. Both of these repasts were tantamount in fiber measure. KJM showed a fasting glycemia bead by 13 A ± 2.5 % ( P 0.0001 ) compared with 9.6 A ± 4.3 % ( P 0.05 ) on control. However, these consequences are non important, since the assurance intervals overlap. This survey compared KJM flour, which is rich in a high-viscous fibre, to fiber-enriched bran flour and tested many consequences, of which postprandial glucose degrees was one. The consequences showed no important difference between the two fiber-enriched flours. While this survey is near to our proposed survey, our survey will be comparing a fleawort addendum to dietetic fibre ; non comparing two types of dietetic fibre. This survey supplied us with thoughts for what to provide to our trial topics in their repasts. This survey gave their trial topics repasts that were absolutely portioned with macro-nutrients in indistinguishable ratios. This is indispensable for our survey to hold accurate consequences. ( Vuksan, Sievenpiper et Al. 2000 ) There have been several surveies that show that a fiber addendum lowers postprandial glucose degrees. However, none of the surveies are comparing auxiliary fibre to dietetic fibre. The inquiry if auxiliary fibre has a different consequence on glucose degrees than dietetic fibre has non been answered. A survey was conducted to see the consequence of seaweed addendum on glucose, lipid profile, and antioxidant enzyme activities in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Nine work forces and 11 adult females with diabetes controlled by diet and/or unwritten hypoglycaemic agents, a BMI of & lt ; 35, a fasting plasma glucose concentrations & gt ; 150 mg/dl, no ingestion of lipid-lowering drugs, and were 40 to 70 old ages of age were selected. Aside from diabetes, all topics were in good general wellness and had no clinical or laboratory grounds of nephritic, hepatic, or cardiovascular disease. Subjects were randomized into either a control group or a seaweed supplementation group. Pills with equal parts of prohibitionist powdered sea tangle and sea mustard were provided to the seaweed supplementation group three times a twenty-four hours for 4 hebdomads. Entire day-to-day ingestion of seaweed was 48 g. The topics continued normal day-to-day activities and exercising forms. Food consumption of each topic was quantitatively evaluated by 24 hr callback. The dietitian collected informations utilizing calibrated theoretical accounts to gauge the size of nutrient parts. Daily alimentary consumption was calculated utilizing the Computer Aided Nutritional Analysis plan ( Can-Pro ) package ( version 3.0 ; The Korean Nutrition Society ) based on informations from Korean food-composition tabular arraies. There were no important differences in fasting blood glucose ( FBG ) or postprandial 2 hr BG at baseline between the two groups. After seaweed supplementation, the concentrations of FBG and PP-2hr BG were decreased significantly in patients having seaweed supplementation, but there were no important differences in controls. Increased dietetic fibres intake from supplementation had good effects on FBG and PP-2hr BG ( Kim, Kim et Al. 2008 ) . This survey is similar to ours in regard that it is reexamining the consequence that auxiliary fibre has on postprandial glucose degrees. However, their control group did non hold the same sum of fibre in their diet as the supplemented group. The supplemented group was acquiring 2.5 times more fibres in their diet than the control. The fact that fibre affects glucose degrees is non in inquiry. With our research, we have been seeing that most surveies have a narrower age scope, this will assist us to find what age scope we would wish our trial topics to be. Besides, this survey used a nutrition analysis plan on the computing machine to calculate the foods ingested by the trial topics. We will utilize a similar method. A survey was conducted, look intoing the differences between fibre repasts enriched with soluble dietetic fibres from oats, rye bran, sugar Beta vulgaris fibre or a mixture of these three fibres. The survey looked at postprandial glucose and insulin effects. Thirteen healthy human voluntaries, 6 work forces and 7 adult females, ages 20-28 old ages of age were included in the survey. The topics were instructed to fast the dark before. They came to the installation one time a hebdomad ( 5 hebdomads entire ) and ingested a repast each clip in a random order. The repasts contained either oat pulverization ( 62 g, of which 2.7 soluble fibre ) , rye bran ( 31 g, of which 1.7 g soluble fibre ) , sugar Beta vulgaris fibre ( 19 g, of which 5 g soluble fibre ) , a mixture of these three fibres ( 74 g, 1.7 g soluble fibre from each beginning, giving 5 g soluble fibre ) , and no added fibre, which was the control. All repasts were adjusted to incorporate the same entire sum of available saccharides. Blood samples were drawn before the repast and every 30 min for 3 hours. Meals with rye bran gave a lower postprandial glucose extremum when compared with the control repast, and this consequence was more marked in adult females compared to work forces. Oat pulverization, incorporating a low sum of entire fibre and a high sum of saccharides in liquid matrix, gave a higher incremental glucose extremum concentration compared to rye bran and sugar Beta vulgaris fibre and higher insulin incremental country under curve compared to command. The oat pulverization besides influenced the effects of the assorted repast, decreasing the glucose-lowering effects. Postprandial triglyceride degrees tended to be higher after all fiber-rich repasts, but merely important for oat pulverization and the assorted repast when compared with the control repast ( Ulmius, Johansson et Al. 2009 ) . This survey concluded that soluble fibre influences postprandial glucose, insulin and triglycerides depending on fiber beginning, dosage of soluble and entire fibre, and perchance gender. While this survey was proving the difference of assorted beginnings of dietetic fibre, it is utile to our survey because they use methods similar to what we want to utilize. They tested their topics ‘ glucose degrees every 30 proceedingss for 3 hours. Besides, the survey had to add assorted things to the different repasts to guarantee that they had similar micronutrient content ; protein was the lone 1 that varied. A Reviewing these surveies has besides given us a way for a sample size.

How Rich Countries Got Rich and Why Poor Countries Stay Poor Essay

How Rich Countries Got Rich and Why Poor Countries Stay Poor By Erik S. Reinert The book How Rich Countries Got Rich and Why Poor Countries Stay Poor is written by Erik S. Reinert and it is published in 2007. Reinert is a 62-year-old Norwegian economist who specializes in development economics and economic history (Wikipedia). Reinert attended the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland (where he studied economics), Harvard University for MBA, and Cornell University for Ph.D.(Wikipedia). In addition to How Rich Countries Got Rich and Why Poor Countries Stay Poor, Reinert has written six books which focus around the theory of uneven development and the history of economic thought and policy (Wikipedia). Reinert is not only an eminent scholar in his field, but also a distinguished entrepreneur. In 1972 he founded a small industrial firm that did color sampling to the paint and automotive industries. Later he developed the firm and added production plants in Norway and Finland, and by the time he sold it in 1991, the company had become the largest of its kind in Eu rope (Wikipedia). Reinert is influenced by Friedrich List and it shows in his piece. Reinert suggests that â€Å"globalization would have been a positive-sum game for all countries if the world has taken Friedrich List’s path to economic integration† (Reinert, 161.). Friedrich has developed his own theory about the timing of tariffs and free trade, and the sequence basically goes like this: (1) a period of free trade for all nations (2) a period when small states protect and build their own industries (4) a period when all countries establish their own competitive industrial sectors (Reinert, 161.).After going through all the above steps, it’s time to open for global free trade and globalization will benefit the poor nations as well as the rich ones. Based on Reinert’s education level, the amount of research and publication he has done in the field of uneven development and his work experience, it can be concluded that Reinert is both qualified educationally and by experience to write this book. How Rich Countries Got Rich and Why Poor Countries Stay Poor is Reinert’s most recent English-language book and his purpose of writing this book is to find out the causes of poverty and to explain the mechanisms that produce the huge gap between the rich and the poor. He looks through the economic history of the past 500 hundred years and concludes the economic structure that most rich countries follow faithfully and eventually make them rich: industrialization policies first, free trade second. Once the rich countries become rich (e.g. the European countries), the type of economic understanding employed by them during their transition from poor to rich dies and they comes up with the completely different standard economics (abstract â€Å"high† theories) for export to poor countries. As a consequence, the standard economics, such as the Washington Consensus, proves to be damaging to poor countries and makes them even poorer. It can be observed that the rich countries were those who emulated the leading industrial nations, such as the United Kingdom, into â€Å"the Age of Industry† (Reinert, 123.) Industrialization is the very first step towards success. With the effect of increasing returns and specialization, the benefit of industrialization goes much further. Industrialized countries take all the jobs that require high skills and technology, while the jobs industrialized countries can no longer mechanize or innovate further, such as straightening of the wire, are farmed out to the non-industrialized countries (Reinert, 39.) Rich countries produce mechanizable products while poor countries can only produce non-mechanizable ones and it explains why no country is able to get rich by only producing raw materials (Reinert, 134.). An industrial sector is essential for a country to become rich. As time zips by, technology and increasing returns, which are main sources of economic power, create economic barriers to entry and make it even more difficult for poor countries to catch up (Reinert, 40.). Rich countries specialize in the right economic activities also develop economic scale and as a consequence, more labor is needed to perform the tasks and the cost of each unit of product falls (Reinert, 40.). Workers are paid more and the things they buy cost less. Both outcomes reflect the two ways to raise the standard of  living: to receive higher wages or to lower the prices of goods (Reinert, 131.). On the other side, rich countries force the conclusions of standard economic policies which they would not apply at home, upon the poor nations that are under their wings, such as keeping the colonies as pure suppliers of raw materials (Reinert, 39.). The rhetoric-reality gap plays an important role in keeping poor countries poor. Another factor that is crucial to the poor nations is the timing of opening up of an economy because free trade tends to destroy the most efficient industries in the least efficient countries (Reinert, 251.). Most rich countries are industrialized before the free trade, so that when they enter the market, they are capable to compete with other countries and get the maximum benefits from globalization but for poor nations, the free trade is like adding frost to snow. In conclusion, Reinert sees the wealth as a result of industrialization, together with other factors such as increasing returns, synergies and he blames poverty for deindustrialization, and the wrong timing of free trade. In general, I agree with Reinert’s opinion that industrialization and the timely free trade policy are the keys to wealth. The development path of China can be a perfect example for this. China was very prosperous during the Tang dynasty, and many western countries sent scholars all the way to China to learn from its success. But during the Qing dynasty, the government chose the policy of isolation and it destroyed the economic development of China. The Qing government restricted the external transport and foreign trade. Imported goods were heavily taxed. The variety and quantity of exported goods were limited as well. China isolated itself from others while many western competitors were in the process of industrialization. Many industrialized western nations were seeking new territories and the deindustrialized China without any advanced arms naturally became their target. Effortlessly, their machine guns bombed the â€Å"locked† country. After that, China learned lessons and started to choose economic structure carefully. Instead of following the immediate economic integration, China followed the Marshall Plan whose goal is to reindustrialize. Fortunately, China chose the right economic structure this time and it was used as proof of the excellence of globalization while Russia, a country faithfully followed the advice given by the World Bank and IMF, experienced disastrous  consequences (Reinert, 118.). Although China has gone back to the right track, but the fact that China is a developing country instead of a developed country demonstrates that the scar caused by the mistaken choice of economic policy and deindustrialization hasn’t healed. The story of China shows the consequences of failing to recognize the importance of industrialization and timely free trade. The failure explains why poor countries are poor and the presently weal thy countries are those who embrace the industrialization and capitalism. Generally speaking, the book is well written. Reinert organizes the book by using sub headings to separate the content and drawing examples from the economic history to support his theories, which make the book more understandable and reliable. There are only a few graphics, a bibliography and a very long appendix at the end, suggesting there are a lot of facts and in-depth research behind the book. The only problem that I have with this book is the repetitiveness of theories. Reinert is very focused on his theme but sometimes he tends to overemphasize it by repeating the similar theories in different chapters. I would recommend the book to readers who have a particular interest in the topic of equalization, or the gap between the rich and the poor. Reinert discusses a lot of highly controversial subjects and people would want to find out the answers. Bibliography S. Reinert, Erik, How Rich Countries Got Rich and Why Poor Countries Stay Poor, London: Constable & Robinson Ltd, 2007 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erik_S._Reinert

Free Essays on Music Censorship

Music Censorship: A Violation of The First Amendment â€Å"Eventually it was discovered that God did not want us to be all the same. This was bad news for the Governments of the World†¦ Mankind must be made more uniformly if THE FUTURE was going to work out†¦It was about the time that someone came up with the idea of TOTAL CRIMINILATION, based on the principle that if we were ALL crooks we could at least be uniform to some degree in the eyes of the law. Shrewdly our legislators calculated that most people were too lazy to perform a REAL CRIME. So new laws were manufactured making it possible for anyone to violate them at any time of the day or night†¦which is on of the reasons why music was eventually made ILLEGAL.† -Frank Zappa, liner notes from Joe’s Garage, Acts 2 (CBS, 1979) The first Amendment to the United States Constitution is as follows: â€Å"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances† (Friendly). Music, like any other form of expression in this country, is protected by the first amendment from anyone who tries to censor it; and it would be a violation of constitutional rights to censor music. Of all the rights and freedoms guaranteed us in the Constitution, it is generally agreed that those set forth in the First Amendment are among the most vital and precious. The first amendment is basically the foundation of our Wentz 2 country, and censorship has no place in democracy. No government, special interest group, or individual should be allowed to deny anyone the freedom of expression. They cannot be given the power to control what one chooses to compose, express or listen to. Every person has a right t... Free Essays on Music Censorship Free Essays on Music Censorship Music Censorship? Webster defines music to be â€Å"a : the science or art of ordering tones or sounds in succession, in combination, and in temporal relationships to produce a composition having unity and continuity b : vocal, instrumental, or mechanical sounds having rhythm, melody, or harmony,† and defines censorship as â€Å"examining in order to suppress or delete anything considered objectionable†. Therefore music censorship is the attempt to suppress or change any part of music that seems objectionable to a certain group of people. Throughout history every advancement in music is met with dispute. Bach’s complex harmonies and counter points, Jazz, and Rock ‘n’ Roll have all been met with opposition that it has had to break through. It is the same with some of today’s misinterpreted and misunderstood music(Lombardi). The history of censorship has been long in the making. The enlightenment in Europe was a time of intellectual stimulation and broadening of though, which migrated to the newly forming United States. It was in this time period that censorship by the government was put to question. People saw the futility of censorship in a free society. Heroic figures from the 18th century including Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and James Madison all saw censorship as an enemy during the revolution saying â€Å"†¦censorship reflects a superstitious and ignorant past†¦.and inhibits social and scientific progress†. The framers of the constitution wanted to keep speech and press free, but despite these Enlightenment ideas embodied in the constitution censorship still prevailed. (Garry) In his book An American Paradox, Censorship in a Nation of Free speech, Patrick Garry tells examples of when censorship failed and to the favor of the opposition. In the first example Garry tells of how in 1798 John Adams imposed a law forbidding criticism of the government. This law was meant to silence the voice of th... Free Essays on Music Censorship Music Censorship From the shocking pelvis shaking of Elvis Presley in the 1950’s, to the much questioned lyrics of Eminem and Marilyn Manson of today, the music industry has always had a way of stirring up controversy in the United States (Zuckerman152). Some may argue that music is too violent and too negative for today’s youth. To other people, music is simply freedom of speech. It’s expression. The battle of music censorship has been fought tome and again, and still there seems to be no resolution to this debate. The government should not have the right to censor music. Some people may use the influence of music as an argument to censor. But, what is negative influence. Who decides? "Whether a person finds a work obscene depends largely on his or her moral or religious beliefs. These views change with each generation and further complicate the censorship dilemma" (Steffens 97). Religious or moral beliefs have a great influence on how a person feels about censorship, and as generations pass on the common beliefs on it may change. â€Å"They (Americans) may be irritated or outraged, by pop culture, but the polls tell us they understands that the principal causes of violence and other national problems lie elsewhere then in the entertainment industry† (Zuckerman 153). Is there any hard, solid evidence that music has this amazing ability to brainwash the youth and force them to break the law or end their life? Music is not responsible for what goes wrong in society. Many children often hear explicit language from older siblings or parents at an early age. If parents cannot censor themselves in front of their own children, they should not have the right to censor somebody else. If a parent takes their child to a record store and buy them a new album, they should know what they are purchasing by screening the album first for any questionable content. If they don't like the content, they can always return it to the store.... Free Essays on Music Censorship Music Censorship: A Violation of The First Amendment â€Å"Eventually it was discovered that God did not want us to be all the same. This was bad news for the Governments of the World†¦ Mankind must be made more uniformly if THE FUTURE was going to work out†¦It was about the time that someone came up with the idea of TOTAL CRIMINILATION, based on the principle that if we were ALL crooks we could at least be uniform to some degree in the eyes of the law. Shrewdly our legislators calculated that most people were too lazy to perform a REAL CRIME. So new laws were manufactured making it possible for anyone to violate them at any time of the day or night†¦which is on of the reasons why music was eventually made ILLEGAL.† -Frank Zappa, liner notes from Joe’s Garage, Acts 2 (CBS, 1979) The first Amendment to the United States Constitution is as follows: â€Å"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances† (Friendly). Music, like any other form of expression in this country, is protected by the first amendment from anyone who tries to censor it; and it would be a violation of constitutional rights to censor music. Of all the rights and freedoms guaranteed us in the Constitution, it is generally agreed that those set forth in the First Amendment are among the most vital and precious. The first amendment is basically the foundation of our Wentz 2 country, and censorship has no place in democracy. No government, special interest group, or individual should be allowed to deny anyone the freedom of expression. They cannot be given the power to control what one chooses to compose, express or listen to. Every person has a right t... Free Essays on Music Censorship Music Censorship in Today’s Society Music is the most influential of all art forms. It can be expressed in thousands of ways depending on the artist. When music is censored, the freedom from the beautiful release of self-expression is confiscated. Thoughts and feelings are the most sacred possessions human beings have. The Constitution of the United States of America allows for all to asseverate these feelings and make them known to all who are willing to listen. The only barrier an artist should tolerate is one of his own creations. According to author Martha Graham, â€Å"Music, like art, mirrors the society that creates it, listens to it, and makes it a part of life†¦censorship follows the same principle†. When music is censored, America has become unjustified. American children of today’s society know firsthand what it is like to feel powerless in a world where their voices often go unheard. Particular artists/musical groups use kids as their target audience. Whether it is through sexuality, lyrics in which teens feel they can relate, or other desirable aspects such as money or expensive cars and homes, adolescents are strongly attracted to them and the lifestyles that they portray. The question asked by many is â€Å"do kids become obsessed with these stars to a point where it may cause them to temporarily lose control of themselves?† The United States Government will need to broaden its thinking before this type of censorship is effective or logical. Unfortunately, our government picks and chooses its battles based on the strengths of lobbyist and the cost of threatened re-election. The point is not if this thinking is right or wrong, the point is how authority is allowed to dictate what is appropriate. Everyone is entitled to have and hold his or her own opinions. It is also their right to voice them to whomever, whenever. People are unwilling to support the concept as bi-directional. The common myth of society is th...

Essay English Essay Example

Essay English Essay Example Essay English Essay Essay English Essay Essay Topic: The Secret Life Of Bees I am a firm believer that parents should be parents and not friends. When this friendship occurs some parents take it to the extreme. Judith Warner states in Helicopter Parenting Turns Deadly that parents of teenagers should not act like teenagers, dress like teenagers, or talk Like teenagers. Parents should behave Like the grown-ups they are presumed to be, not adolescents. When It comes down to It being a helicopter parent, parents tend to be overly involved at an extreme level, blow a gasket about normal teen stuff, and leave out important aspects of the parent-child allegations. Megan Meier was an average teenager that became the victim of an overly involved parent. Lori Drew got hung up on what was being said about her daughter, and her daughters reputation, that It cause Megan to take her own life. Lori went to an extreme. Parents arent all sick like Lori Drew and Wanda Webb Holloway, states Warner. Wanda Holloway, similar to Mrs.. Drew, is sick. She hired a Whitman to kill the mother of her daughters cheer rival. These two mothers are Just a small example of how parents can really blow a gasket, although, some are more mentally stable with he results. That Is the disturbing degree to which todays parents and mothers In patellar- frequently lose themselves when they get caught trying to smooth out. Or steamroll over, the social challenges faced by their children, exclaims Judith Warner. The middle/high schools years are the hardest in any teens life. They will get picked on for not wearing the expensive, name brand clothes, but Just because that is the case does not mean the parents should go buy these items Just to help the social status. IT IS NOT NECESSARY! In twenty years, it will not matter how much your clothes cost. There are no boundaries In parent-child relationships In present time. People now feel Like having a good relationship with your child means youre Involved In ever aspect of your childs life, says Roseland Washman author of Queen Bees Wannabes. There should be secrets between mother and daughter, father and son, and vice versa. It is only healthy, and honestly not all things require a parents input. There should be limitations, and privacy. These aspects built into a relationship with a child will create the strongest of bonds. Parents get overly Involved, blow a gasket about normal things, and leave out important things out of the parent-child relationship. A teen in these years will go though many tribulations, the last things they need is an overly involved parent taking extreme actions on everyday situations. These trials will shape the child into the young adult they will become. My advice to parents is to take a step back and wait till your held asks you for your insight on a situation. Essay 2 English 1010 By mellower teenagers, dress like teenagers, or talk like teenagers. Parents should behave like the grown-ups they are presumed to be, not adolescents. When it comes down to it being daughters reputation, that it cause Megan to take her own life. Lori went to an That is the disturbing degree to which todays parents and mothers in patrician- frequently lose themselves when they get caught trying to smooth out, or steamroll There are no boundaries in parent-child relationships in present time. People now feel like having a good relationship with your child means youre involved in ever Parents get overly involved, blow a gasket about normal things, and leave out wait till your hill asks you for your insight on a situation.

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse Have you zeroed in on the field of licensed practical nursing as your chosen career path to pursue? If so, you’ve made an excellent choice! Licensed practical nursing is a challenging and rewarding field with diverse responsibilities, strong professional growth potential, and opportunities in a wide array of venues. It’s also a growing field, as the demand for licensed practical nurses is increasing across the country in a variety of specializations and disciplines. That said, if you’re just starting out in your quest to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN), you might have some questions. How do you get started and break into the field? What are the requirements for becoming an LPN? What career options are available to those who have qualified to work as an LPN?Keep reading, as we’ll explore this interesting and important career field and provide some answers to these questions, so you can move forward in your career journey.Career backgroundLPNs are hi ghly trained and capable health care professionals who provide a wide range of support and care services to a diverse range of populations in need, from babies and young children to adolescents, young adults, adults, and older individuals. Within these various patient demographics, licensed practical nurses have opportunities for employment in many settings, including hospitals, group homes, doctors’ offices, veteran care and assisted living facilities, nursing homes, health care clinics, and more. LPNs are typically part of an integrated health care team that includes doctors, other nurses, specialists, therapists, and health care support personnel.Individuals who pursue careers as licensed practical nurses typically demonstrate an interest and desire to provide care to individuals and find fulfillment in helping others. It isn’t uncommon for future LPNs to begin their career paths early, often through volunteer positions or internships in health care settings, which offer valuable glimpses into what life as an LPN would be like.Job responsibilities for LPNs can vary greatly, depending on experience level and care setting, but can include patient intake, managing and updating medical records and patient charts, patient care management and planning, obtaining vital signs and performing initial assessments, administering medications, helping with basic activities of daily living including eating, bathing, dressing, and toileting, changing bandages, health monitoring, assistance with exercise and therapy programs, and a host of other patient assistance tasks as needed.Career outlookIf you’re looking for a career field with room for growth and advancement opportunities, then pursuing a position as an LPN can be a great move. According to 2016 data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are more than 700,000 working LPNs across the United States, and that number is expected to rise significantly over the next decade; the field of el der care is expected to see the most significant gains, as medical advancements help individuals live longer than ever before. Another significant reason for the increase in demand for LPNs is the rise in diet and nutrition-related issues that require medical treatment, such as diabetes and obesity.If you choose to pursue a career as an LPN, you can expect your annual salary to be somewhere in the $32,000–$60,000 range; again, your experience level, the state that you’re employed in, and the healthcare setting you work in will factor into your compensation.If you’re trying to decide the type of healthcare setting you’d like to work in, consider the fact that industries that employ the highest numbers of LPNs include nursing care facilities, physicians’ offices, medical hospitals, home health care service agencies, retirement facilities, and psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals. Although there are opportunities available in every town, city, an d state in the country, in both urban and rural settings, the highest concentrations of LPNs are in the eastern portion of the United States and California.What it takesOkay, so if the previous information sounds like a good fit for you, and you’re eager to move forward, let’s review the steps required to become an LPN. First off, requirements vary by state, so make sure you thoroughly review the requirements in the state you decide to pursue employment in.Typically, LPNs have graduated high school or have earned a high school equivalency diploma, and have completed a degree program or intensive certificate program in nursing. Make sure the educational program you pursue is approved by your state. The good news is that there are a wide range of certified programs in most states, with programs being offered by community colleges, technical schools, junior colleges, and hospitals. These programs typically last a minimum of one year, and include a mix of classroom-based l earning and practical hands-on experience under the guidance of an experienced and licensed professional. Admissions requirements for LPN programs vary by institution. The Internet is a great source of information regarding approved LPN education programs in your state, and what it takes to gain admission.Should you choose to pursue an LPN educational program, expect to be required to complete coursework in nutrition, human growth and development, medical terminology, physiology and anatomy, pharmacology, and nursing care for children and adults. You may also be required to take additional classes in science, mathematics, and English.The next step towards employment for individuals who complete an approved LPN program is to take and complete the NCLEX-PN- the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.The NCLEX-PN exam, administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, is a 5-hour, intensive, computer-based exam that tests the knowledge and skills obt ained in an LPN educational program. This multiple-choice exam, which is a core requirement in all states for becoming an LPN, is arranged into four major client needs categories: Safe and Effective Care Environments, Physiological Integrity, Psychosocial Integrity, and Health Promotion and Maintenance.Across the NCLEX-PN exam, the following fundamental process areas, which are essential for professional practice as an LPN, are tested: Clinical Problem-Solving Processes, Caring, Communication and Documentation, Teaching and Learning, and Culture and Spirituality. If you’re worried about taking such a high-stakes exam, don’t fear- there’s a wide range of test preparation services available to guide you on your journey.Once you complete your educational program, pass the NCLEX-PN, and obtain licensure, you’re ready to pursue available job opportunities in the field! Keep in mind that there are opportunities to obtain additional professional certification in specialized areas of the LPN field, including long-term care, hospice and palliative care, immunization, IV therapy, pharmacology, dialysis, neonatal education, gerontology, and more, which will help broaden and improve your career opportunities. As health care and medicine is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, LPNs are expected to stay knowledgeable and up to date on advances in the industry.The bottom lineHopefully, after reading all of this information about the LPN field and what it takes to become an LPN, you have a better sense of whether or not it’s the right career path for you. If you’re now more convinced than ever that becoming an LPN is right for you, then use the information here to help guide you along your path to career success. Good luck!

Enterprise Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Enterprise Project - Essay Example Throughout the period of undertaking the project, I hope to learn several aspects from fellow colleagues. While in a leadership position, I wish to learn how to engage and empower people. Leadership by fear that arises from the traditional management system is flawed, and its productivity may be in doubt. I will also learn particular insights on how technology can influence the activities of the group. Finally, I will learn to embrace vulnerability through developing courage to be seen. I developed a major cash flow report for the group, which is very vital in tracking the fiscal progress of the enterprise. I have certain weaknesses of being a perfect debater who has a passion for work. I tend to question everything, and this slows down the execution processes. However, I have a particular skill to counter the weaknesses. I am a self-motivated, determined, success-oriented, and hardworking natural leader. The combination of these qualities may not make up a perfect profile, but they will guarantee success in the enterprise

Discussion Question Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Discussion Question - Essay Example The dividend cut was aimed at reducing the company’s debts of $62 million (USATODAY, 2000). The idea was that with reduced debts the annual interest on the debt load would decrease but many investors rely on the dividend income. This was something unusual that AT&T had done in 2000 because even during the Great Depression when other industrial giants had reduced their dividend, AT&T had been able to maintain it (Forbes, 2000). This drastic step was taken so that the savings through lower dividend would help them clear the debt, enhance profits and invest in growth, which was aimed at maximizing shareholder wealth. In 2000, there was corporate restructuring and the company’s profits were split in four ways and hence such a decision had to be taken. Apart from the year 2000, AT&T has been consistently registered growth in dividend payouts while the earnings per share (EPS) have been decreasing since 1998 (DGI, 2008). The annual dividend payouts have increased over the past ten years at an annual average of 4.80% even though there has been lack of growth in profits over the past decade. A 5% growth in dividend suggests that the dividend payouts double every 14 or 15 years. The quarterly dividends that AT&T paid in 2007 were double of what they paid in 1991. Even though the dividend yield at AT&T is above average, the EPS has declined. Unless there is growth in the EPS the company will not be able to maintain its current dividend policy of annual growth in dividend payouts. T-Mobile International, one of Deutsche Telekom AGs (NYSE:DT) four strategic divisions, is one of the worlds leading international wireless communications providers. T-Mobile has a dividend yield of 7% which is considered to be quite decent (Vinzant, 2008). Except for 2001, T-Mobile has been maintaining growth in dividend payouts because they believe in paying their shareholders

Managing change, small hotel development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Managing change, small hotel development - Essay Example year 2020 is 5 years away; hence, considering the analyses that has been conducted on the Sea Front Hotel, the chances of development over the next five years can be assessed. One of the greatest strengths of the hotel is that it is not mired in any form of debt. As a result, in spite of the global financial fluctuations that occur, it can be said that the financial risks of any global economic downturn in the next five years will have little effect. However, the hotel lacks an online presence and it still uses conentional methods of communication. It has to be noted that nearly all successful businesses, especially those in the hospitality industry like Sea Front Hotel, make use of the internet as an essential marketing tool (Dudovskiy, 2015). The hotel cannot only rely on increased consumer spending because they are not assured that they will spend their money on an â€Å"unknown† hotel, due to its poor marketing strategy. In the face of competition over the next five years, the hotel is likely to achieve minimal development, because of its poor marketing plan. In addition, it has a limited customer base and needs to diversify. Due to the growth of the economy, its development chances can be sustained at the moment but not increased as it cannot rely on the national economy to develop. The chances of development for the Sea Front Hotel over the next 5 years are deem. Due to its favourable location setting, the hotel should be flocking with customers at the moment, but that is not the case. At the moment, it should be having a medium profit margin because it has a cheap source of supplies from the local area due to heightened competition among the suppliers. The cheap sources function as a financial cover, coupled with its lack of debts. However, its profit margins are low at the moment, something that the management should be planning to improve. The changes that can be implemented to improve this is the use of a cheap source of power, wind power, due to its

The Social Context of Ethical Practice in Mental Health Care Essay

The Social Context of Ethical Practice in Mental Health Care - Essay Example It shall discuss the planning, implementation, and evaluation associated with their care relating it to the nursing process and theoretical framework and model of care underpinning the assessment. The driving force for the development of mental health policies were concerns on public safety and on the minimization of risk (Fry, 2011). In the 1700s, their fears of mental illness were mostly related to their fears on witchcraft and the devil. The lower classes believed that only by using violent means could the mental illness be treated. Among the upper classes, they were keen on morally condemning such illnesses; and their fears of these diseases impacted on mental health with the attitudes of apathy being expressed against these diseases (Fry, 2011). During King George’s time when he was apparently cured of his mental illness, the attitudes towards mental illness changed and took on a more accepting attitude. The people had faith in the belief that the mental illness can be cu red. As a result, asylums for the treatment of the mentally ill were established (Fry, 2011). More research on mental illness and on its treatment was carried out. Models of sanity were also conceptualized; these models were accepted among professionals and laymen. Unfortunately inasmuch as these asylums were built on noble and helpful reasons, they soon became places of incarceration for the mentally ill, not a place of treatment (Fry, 2011). The war gave birth to the so-called war trauma which was identified as a mental illness. This mental illness became the subject of many studies. However, even as the general concern was for the treatment of mental illnesses, the focus of legislation ran towards detainment and compulsory treatment (Fry, 2011). After the Second World War and with the advent of drug therapies, including tranquilizers and neuroleptics, better odds for the treatment of mental illness brought about legislation for the improvement of the treatment of patients in ment al institutions (Fry, 2011). In 1983, the Mental Health Act was introduced in order to secure the rights of mental health patients and to protect public safety. The National Health Service and Community Care Act of 1990 further improved this law by introducing community care for the mentally ill. More improvements were later seen on mental health care with the amendment of the Mental Health Act as introduced by the Mental Health Act of 2007. Description of patient My client who shall be referred to as Patient A was admitted into the rehabilitation unit from Ward 8 following his right below the knee amputation. His amputation was carried out as a result of infected foot ulcers. His sutures from his amputation were recently removed and he was now set to start the rehabilitation process. The rehabilitation unit where he was admitted specializes in orthopaedic and stroke rehabilitation patients, including patients having had fractures, amputations, and patients with bodily weakness caus ed by paralysis as a result of strokes and spinal injuries. The unit focuses on regaining mobility for patients, helping them regain strength and coordination in their movements, and assisting them in learning ways on how to carry out their daily activities even with their disabilities. On the third of March 2011, an ectasia was detected in his right common iliac. Further infection of foot ulcers in the area led to further

Philosophy about Personal Worldview Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Philosophy about Personal Worldview - Essay Example My view of personhood with us as constructs made as models of God, not separated from the divine, it assists in developing a type of leadership that is supportive and caring. There is a concept in management called transformational leadership where the individual leads by inspiration, charisma, as a teacher and one who tries to gain loyalty. This is my preferred leadership style as it satisfies many of the rights versus wrong concepts laid out by the divine in many holy texts, but also helps develop others to have these same characteristics that the divine would find acceptable. By being a role model that inspires others, I believe I not only improve my standing with the divine but provide a lasting impact on human history by changing minds in the community.   Deming (2002) says that 85 percent of all failures in business are due to management incompetence or failure to lead. This is a profound statement that would seem to justify the need for transformational to ensure loyalty is gained by others so that the organization can thrive as a system of interdependent individuals. Loyalty is gained through these practical and fair behaviors of treatment toward others. It would seem, to me, that a business leader must abandon some of their self-serving, political objectives in favor of assisting and developing others in order to have a successful organization.This might be, in my opinion, and based on theory, the best way to ensure that the organization does not experience significant failures stemming from a single individual.   ... w is a commitment, a fundamental orientation of the heart, that can be expressed in a set of suppositions (either true or false), that we hold about reality† (Sire, 2009, p.20). Thus, my somewhat unjustified view of death and some other elements of the reality of God and the universe are supported by Sire (2009) who illustrates that worldview can be based on fiction. However, after spending many years trying to consider the realities of death and life, it seems that my worldview is, at least, logical based on the seemingly arbitrary attitude of God about the constant instances of death across the world. I believe it is because of the joy of his re-emergence in society that it is possible, as mentioned by Sire, to know nothing at all. There is a saying in community that God works in mysterious ways and it would certainly seem so. Those who look at the world and see heartlessness, selfishness and other hardships could certainly be justified, if they have faith in the divine, to s uggest that God is indifferent and, perhaps, even a bit callous to allow these situations to occur. However, I believe that the depth of his purpose will ultimately be revealed to all of humanity so that everyone with a mind to discern and a heart to feel will understand its constructs and ultimate intentions. Thus, my worldview is one of hope in the midst of the insensible and irrational in which divinity will ultimately provide for those who find a place for him in their hearts and try to abide by his precepts. We learn right and wrong from religious doctrine and thus we are free-minded, autonomous beings given the chance as to compliance or to disobedience that will determine our long-term fate in destiny and as a part of the broader universe. This is my understanding of personhood as it

Positioning and Differentiation Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Positioning and Differentiation Paper - Essay Example In order to provide those customers with a branding strategy, they tailored it to the actual market. Throughout the country, where they needed to build a strong brand, such as in the United States, the goal was to provide that of a campaign dedicated to customer service. Customers like community activity, partly because comments from other users are more relevant and credible to them than comments from you. They expect you to speak highly of your own products and services, but it will really impress them if others also do. Communities also serve the valuable function of bringing users back to the site over and over, making it possible to alert them to new promotions and offers. With rapid developments in the technology available to people, customers will become accustomed to the idea of: production and marketing systems that can tailor products, communications and services to meet their expectations, increased choices for delivery and payment and contacting the marketer easily and under their own initiative. To stay and hold the position in the present competitive market companies like Fmc Naperville Dialysis Center and DaVita has planned to expand its business throughout the US. DaVita is encouraging other companies to advertise their product on their website. A study has shown that DaVita would make more profit in diversifying than expanding. Both companies used TOWS (Threats-Opportunities-Weaknesses-Strengths) matrix to develop feasible alternative strategies. The matrix consists of four quadrants. They are (1) using strengths to overcome weaknesses, (2) Using strengths to overcome threats, (3) overcoming weaknesses to take advantage of opportunities and (4) overcoming weaknesses to address threats. First quadrant concentrates on possible strength-opportunity strategies. Important factors are to hire highly skilled workers, wide brand recognition, customer satisfaction, effectively and efficiently raising capital resources, etc. Second quadrant concentrates on possible strength-threat strategies. Important threats that have to overcome are changing government regulations, seasonal shopping, and competition from each other and other possible competitors, protect business and customer information, currency exchange, etc. Third and Fourth quadrants concentrates on Possible Weakness-Opportunity Strategies and Possible Weakness-Threat Strategy. Third quadrant looks at reviewing product, develop standards up to the customer satisfaction, etc. Fourth quadrant looks at implementing backup systems, implementing policies to protect and avoid security risks. A qualitative and quantitative research is must in developing an Information system. Qualitative research is more of collecting data, conducting interviews, using documents and to understand and explain social phenomenon. DaVita relies more on this approach, they give importance more on the practical out put of the research. Quantitative research involves is of development of natural sciences to study natural phenomenon. Survey methods, formal methods, econometrics, etc., are some of the examples of quantitative research. Fmc Naperville Dialysis Center follows this approach and takes things as they come. Qualitative research methods are more often used as it involves observation of data that helps in finding

Philosophy about Personal Worldview Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Philosophy about Personal Worldview - Essay Example My view of personhood with us as constructs made as models of God, not separated from the divine, it assists in developing a type of leadership that is supportive and caring. There is a concept in management called transformational leadership where the individual leads by inspiration, charisma, as a teacher and one who tries to gain loyalty. This is my preferred leadership style as it satisfies many of the rights versus wrong concepts laid out by the divine in many holy texts, but also helps develop others to have these same characteristics that the divine would find acceptable. By being a role model that inspires others, I believe I not only improve my standing with the divine but provide a lasting impact on human history by changing minds in the community.   Deming (2002) says that 85 percent of all failures in business are due to management incompetence or failure to lead. This is a profound statement that would seem to justify the need for transformational to ensure loyalty is gained by others so that the organization can thrive as a system of interdependent individuals. Loyalty is gained through these practical and fair behaviors of treatment toward others. It would seem, to me, that a business leader must abandon some of their self-serving, political objectives in favor of assisting and developing others in order to have a successful organization.This might be, in my opinion, and based on theory, the best way to ensure that the organization does not experience significant failures stemming from a single individual.   ... w is a commitment, a fundamental orientation of the heart, that can be expressed in a set of suppositions (either true or false), that we hold about reality† (Sire, 2009, p.20). Thus, my somewhat unjustified view of death and some other elements of the reality of God and the universe are supported by Sire (2009) who illustrates that worldview can be based on fiction. However, after spending many years trying to consider the realities of death and life, it seems that my worldview is, at least, logical based on the seemingly arbitrary attitude of God about the constant instances of death across the world. I believe it is because of the joy of his re-emergence in society that it is possible, as mentioned by Sire, to know nothing at all. There is a saying in community that God works in mysterious ways and it would certainly seem so. Those who look at the world and see heartlessness, selfishness and other hardships could certainly be justified, if they have faith in the divine, to s uggest that God is indifferent and, perhaps, even a bit callous to allow these situations to occur. However, I believe that the depth of his purpose will ultimately be revealed to all of humanity so that everyone with a mind to discern and a heart to feel will understand its constructs and ultimate intentions. Thus, my worldview is one of hope in the midst of the insensible and irrational in which divinity will ultimately provide for those who find a place for him in their hearts and try to abide by his precepts. We learn right and wrong from religious doctrine and thus we are free-minded, autonomous beings given the chance as to compliance or to disobedience that will determine our long-term fate in destiny and as a part of the broader universe. This is my understanding of personhood as it

Diabetes Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

Diabetes - Research Paper Example The research paper shows the prevalence of the disease. It gives information on the age group; race, ethnicity, body size and sex that have high chances of are getting diabetes mellitus. The paper also highlights on some minor causes of diabetes mellitus, and the severe complications resulted from the disease if it is not diagnosed at an early stage. Diabetes mellitus known as diabetes is the number of chronically metabolic diseases that are identified by rise in glucose levels in the blood; scientifically know as hyperglycemia (Chandalia at al., 2012). It may occur due to the pancreas producing inadequate amount of insulin, defect in insulin action, or both. It is considered to be the seventh cause of death in United States. The food we consume is catalyzed to glucose which is utilized by the body to provide energy. Hormone insulin, which is synthesized by the beta cells of the pancreas, regulates sugar levels in the blood. According to LeRoith et al. (2004), this is achieved by assisting the glucose in circulating blood to enter the body cells (p.225). Once the glucose has entered the body cells it is used to synthesize energy that is used in all body functions. Long term hyperglycemia result to ailments of the coronary artery, increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as strokes, heart attack, angina and heart failur e and causes diseases associated with peripheral arteries (macro vascular) and also micro vascular complications in patients. In some cases, it also results in lower limb amputation. The data received for statistics of the number of US residents that were diagnosed by diabetes and prediabetes in 2010 was derived by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Patient Information Reporting System (NPIRS) and the United States renal data system of the national institute of health. The number of residential Americans aged 20 and above was 25.6 million which is

Maslow and Taylor Essay Example for Free

Maslow and Taylor Essay The maslow pyramid of needs symbolise a theory needs and motivations of the 40s by Abraham maslow this pyramid is divided to 5 levels, according to him the human being tries to satisfy one need in one level before they start thinking about the next one :the person start with the level at the bottom which is the bare necessities like food and the shelter when all physiological needs are stisfied the person steps up to the next level which is security (health, work, belongings) then they jump to the social needs where people need to be a part of a society a group a family where they can communicate and work as a team then the 4th need which is the esteem of thenselfs and people, people need to see that they are respected then the last one which is the self actualisation which measured by how people see themselfs and their success in challenges in their work On the other hand Taylor sees the work motivation differently and talks about it with a theory of scientific management : which is mostly based on motivation by pay because according to him workers dont enjoy their work thats why they need to be controled. for that managers should separate production into small tasks and workers should get the training for the task they are meant to do as they can work efficiently on their task , theses workers are paid according to the number0 of items they have produced on a period of time which motivate them to increase their productivity . in other words Taylor sees workers as machines and makes them over-exploited. The main difference between how maslow and taylor see the workers motivation is that the second thinks that money is the only motivation which we can see in everydays life that it is false, maslow separed motivation to 5 levels when the worker satisfies one level of needs he moves up to an other level and become more demanding this is why workers under taylorism went on strikes , because there is many factors apart from income that affects the workers motivation like the working conditions the recognisation of their work , the greatings of the manager

Richard Wrights - Black Boy :: essays research papers fc

Richard Wright's - Black Boy A Teacher's Guide for Secondary and Post Secondary Educators Introduction Richard Wright: An Overview Questions and Activities Before Viewing Questions and Activities After Viewing History: Questions and Activities Education: Questions and Activities Literature: Questions and Activities Psychology: Questions and Activities Sociology Political Science/Cultural Studies: Questions and Activities Bibliographies INTRODUCTION Although RICHARD WRIGHT: BLACK BOY focuses mainly on the life and history of an internationally acclaimed American author, the visual and audio components of the documentary richly contextualize the literature that Wright produced. In that sense, the documentary synthesizes a great amount of historical, social and cultural information about the twentieth century. It can be used to prompt extensive discussions, to stimulate students to undertake special research projects, to write papers or combine the arts and/or cultural knowledge into a learning experience. Since the documentary is ninety minutes in length, planning and scheduling viewing time for students is essential so that the documentary can be viewed in either one or two class periods. Teachers are encouraged to view and discuss the documentary together and decide whether it is more efficient to use it in teaching one discipline or if students might profit more from discussions that are not discipline bound. The Teacher's Guide is designed for those teachers who want to use RICHARD WRIGHT: BLACK BOY to enhance the experiences of their students as they explore many and various school subjects. The guide is not designed to be exhaustive. It provides ideas for student activities and assignments, bibliographies of Wright's work, and a selected listing of background sources. Some older materials are included to suggest the state of scholarship and thinking about issues within Wright's lifetime or as reminders of what works might have influenced his thinking. In making assignments, it is suggested that the teacher add current articles and books that are deemed appropriate. The pre-viewing questions and activities are designed to help students gain background knowledge. The post-viewing student assignments focus on ways Wright's works mentioned in the documentary can be used to promote broader inquiries among the disciplines. Because the documentary contains scenes that portray Negro lynchings and an African woman's bare breasts, it is recommended that teachers and administrators below the college level review the program before showing it to students. Questions and activities are provided in the following disciplines: History, Education, Psychology, Literature, Sociology, and Political Science/Cultural Studies. The bibliography completes the guide.

The Rising Cost of Health Care Essay -- essays research papers

Rising medical costs are a worldwide problem, but nowhere are they higher than in the U.S. Although Americans with good health insurance coverage may get the best medical treatment in the world, the health of the average American, as measured by life expectancy and infant mortality, is below the average of other major industrial countries. Inefficiency, fraud and the expense of malpractice suits are often blamed for high U.S. costs, but the major reason is overinvestment in technology and personnel. There are three issues when it comes to the health care cost rising. The first is the rising cost in prescription drugs. The second area of rising cost is the increased technologies when it comes to the medical industry. The third problem is the aging population. Prescription drugs are the area of the fastest growing health care expense, and it is projected to grow at 20 to 30 percent each year over the next several years. There are many newer, more expensive drugs on the market, and the use of these prescriptions is exploding. In addition, with so much television advertising, many consumers ask their doctors for expensive, brand name drugs when there may actually be a generic drug that works just as well. Over the past decade, scientists have made significant advancements in the treatment of certain diseases. Unfortunately, just like any new product, the cost of developing these new technologies and treatments is extremely high. Plus, unlike other technology, heath technolo...

Comparative Public Administration Essay

The Arab Spring has created opportunities for countries across North Africa and the Middle East to redesign their constitutions. There are ongoing debates on whether these countries will adopt the Anglo-American model or look at other paradigms. Political leaders and scholars have turned to a number of academic fields such cultural studies, sociology, economics, and political science in attempt to answers some of these questions. However, no other field of study will provide more insight into the development of these new government structures than comparative public administration (CPA). Simply put, it is the study of comparing two or more public administrations by using multiple disciplines. This definition, however, does not sufficiently describe the complexity of this field or its contributions to other academic areas, government employees, and country leaders. Perhaps the area in which CPA provides the most aid is in its cross-national analysis. Through this research, countries are able to learn from one another. CPA is not limited to cross-national comparison though as it evaluates different administrative processes and systems within countries. To fully appreciate CPA, however, it is necessary to understand how politics factors into it, its progression over the years, and its analysis towards delineating future challenges to public administration. Politics in CPA The study of comparative public administration challenges the notion that public administration and politics are separate entities. Specifically, it has recognized that bureaucrats, pressure groups, and elected officials are all political actors in the policymaking process. In Germany, for example, politics influence policy formation because the law requires public agencies to consult with interest groups before making legislation and regulations. In other countries like the United States, public administrators and pressure groups engage in clientela politics which are mutually dependent relationships. Agencies rely on interest groups not only to shape policies but also for their survival. The interest groups lobby politicians and gain public support in order to help the agencies compete for government resources. At the same time, pressure groups benefit by gaining access to the decision-making process where they are able to represent their interests (Peters, 2010, p. 182). Nations w ith a single dominant party, in contrast, use politics to develop parantela relationships. The Chinese Communist party, for example, works with the bureaucrats on behalf of the interest groups, thereby ensuring policies decisions do not steer away from the party’s ideology. CPA also researches politics between public administration and other formal institutions, and it investigates the political strategies each side uses to assert their power and control over policies and budgets. The bureaucrats, for example, have technical knowledge and information which they use to their advantage. In Norway, civil servants collect and analyze vast amounts of data to develop complex plans and budgets which politicians do not have skills or the time to understand. The overwhelmed political leaders have little choice but to accept the administration’s plans. Another useful device that civil servants use in Japan and France are advisory bodies. Although these advisory boards are attached to the ministries, the members are usually civil servants or interest group associates co nnected to the government agencies. Thus, the bureaucrats determine many of the final outcomes of policies (Peters, 2010, p. 219). Nevertheless, political institutions have their own devices to counter the bureaucrats. Political leaders create their own specialized institutions and counterstaffs to gain independent sources of information. The president of United States has the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to monitor public expenditures while the Congressional Budget Office oversees the national budget on the legislative side (Peters, 2010, p. 220-221). Executive leaders also hire their own experts such as the Executive Office of the United States and the Office of the Chancellor in Germany. Since civil servants’ positions are permanent, elected officials exert their policy goals through political appointees as in the United States, Belgium, and France. In Germany, however, the minister may directly replace the senior civil servants with their own personnel (Peters, 2010, p. 226). Changes in CPA Traditionally, the field of comparative public administration focused on â€Å"public administration† aspects such as the bureaucratic structures and systems. In recent years, academics have shifted to the theme of â€Å"public management† where CPA identifies best practices to enhance the performance of bureaucracy. The theory of â€Å"New Public Management† (NPM) emphasizes generic management and market-based principles. It favors loosening bureaucratic rules to allow more creativity and flexibility, thereby â€Å"letting the managers manage† (Peters, 2010, p. 329). Moreover, NPM encourages competition by privatizing government services. An alternative approach to NPM is the participatory concept of governing. The participatory model streamlines the hierarchy found in traditional administrative system by empowering the lower echelons of civil servants (Peters, 2010, p. 334). Government workers become more productive through involvement in policy decisions (Peters, 2010). Other managerial reforms have included performances measures on the managers themselves and on the organization as a whole. This new tactic focuses on â€Å"making managers manage† (Peters, 2010, p. 335). Since employment is typically permanent in most agencies, leaders recognize that this status have made some civil servants comfortable and unmotivated in their jobs. CPA evaluates different methods to measure employee performances and explores different strategies to encourage them to work, including a variety of rewards and punishments (Peters, 2010, p. 336). Organizational performance reviews are challenging since there are many factors outside the agencies control that impact its successes. CPA aids in this process by identifying the indicators of poor performances in organizations, while also taking into consideration the external influences (Peters, 2010, p.341). Notable Challenges to Public Administration The study of CPA emphasizes a comparative approach to identify new challenges that public administration will face in the 21st century. One such challenge will be the issue of accountability. As mentioned above, many countries have transferred public services to the private sector. However in their attempts to increase efficiency, they have lost accountability. Transparency and ethical standards are no longer guaranteed. In order to solve this dilemma, a restoration of some form of government control is necessary. The challenge will be to find new models that balance efficiency and accountability (Peters, 2010). Yet, the biggest challenge will be finding long-term economic solutions in the face of demographic changes. In many societies, the over-65 population is increasing more than twice as fast as the overall population (Peters, 2010, p.8). Unless policy changes are made, this demographic shift will create unsustainable public expenses leading to budgetary deficits which could compromise pension programs and health care systems. By comparing public policies, governments can analyze policy options and understand the implications of their choices. Some countries have already changed their pension plans by increasing the age of eligibility for retirement; however, they may soon have to make difficult decisions regarding austerity measures such as benefit cuts. Conclusion It is important to understand that CPA does more than recognizing similarities and differences. CPA provides descriptive analysis and theories that help advance government institutions, improve government performance, and expand policy options. Before CPA can achieve its purpose, politics must be recognized as an influential factor in the research. In every aspect, politics is involved in the governmental decision making processes, especially policymaking. CPA research explores alternative strategies to improve public management and helps anticipate future challenges. As new regimes are formed, the field of CPA will be a valuable source of information to aid leaders in the process of nation-building. In return, existing CPA theories will likely be changed and new theories emerge through the research of the new governments in the Middle East and other parts of the world. Reference Peters, B. G. (2010). The Politics of Bureaucracy: An Introduction to Comparative Public Administration (6th ed.). New York, NY: Routledge.

Morality in Politics Essay

People are forced to face moral challenges in making day-to-day decisions. When it comes to benefitting individual and societal good, the great question of politics is raised: what is the right thing to do? In Sophocles’ Antigone, there is a dilemma whether to abide by the laws of the gods above the laws of the state. Antigone makes a decision that not only affects her future but the future of the state under her uncle’s rule. Antigone gains a high moral sense in that she followed the laws of the gods and therefore did the morally right choice going against state laws, either case can be deemed as morally correct. In this essay it will be argued that citizens should be free to disobey state laws when conscience dictates. Sophocles’ play enacts the moral conflict of power between the laws of the gods and the laws of state. He presents the reader with a dilemma involving religious rituals passed down in the family and a new law passed by a ruler of the state. Antigone and her uncle, Creon, have a different set of values. Creon, the ruler of Thebes, values the constant order of the state and the public good. Antigone values family and religion, and views these commitments as superior to the laws imposed by her uncle. She claims, there is an â€Å"unchangeable unwritten code of Heaven,† (Sophocles, Antigone, 17) and she decides to act against the laws of her uncle to fulfill the laws of the gods, by giving her brother a proper burial ritual against Creon’s will. Antigone considers her uncle’s laws as sacrilege. Creon thought that his decision would bring stability to his state, as he claimed that â€Å"by corruption few men thrive and many come to mischief,† (Sophocles, Antigone, 12). Creon places the ‘polis’ above family and religious values and disregards the values that Antigone holds sacred. Sophocles positions Antigone as being the heroine of the play and allows her to justify her decisions, with the taking of her own life Antigone made a statement and accentuates the power she held and that Creon lacked. In the end, Creon is left with feelings of regret and no family, thus punished by the gods for not abiding by their laws. Antigone believed that her rights were not given to her by Creon but rather given to her by the gods. She was only doing what she thought was morally right. Antigone is a religious being and clearly values the gods higher than the state; she is willing to face the consequences. Antigone was willing to â€Å"meet with nothing more grievous, at the worst, than death, with honour,† (Sophocles, Antigone, 4) she courageously fulfilled her duties as a religious being. Many people would applaud Antigone’s bravery, for any private interest should be allowed to challenge the public good. In doing so, I believe that those private interests could eventually turn into a public interest. In the play, a prophet visits Creon to warn him of the consequences that have been brought about from his unjust laws. If it had not have been for Antigone publicly objecting to Creon’s law, it would probably not have been such a big issue that brought the concern of others. Antigone allowed for others to question Creon’s law and debate if it is morally right to go against the laws of the gods. Publicly refusing to follow a law brings attention to an issue that otherwise would have been ignored. One great example in our society is during the Civil Rights era; Martin Luther King Jr. ’s actions brought great attention to the issue of racial segregation. He believed that it was right to openly break a law that was not supposed to be a law at all. His actions although non-violent broke many laws that were made to impede success among the African American population in the U. S. He believed that by publicly and consciously breaking the law exposes brutality and promotes participation. In doing so, the people against the law were perceived as being brave and those watching were forced to question what was just. When issues become public and catch the interest of the majority of the people in the ‘polis’, the government is forced to do something about it. Creon responded with a stern and much too harsh punishment that led to the death of his niece, son and wife but if Antigone would not have contested his law he could have eventually reached complete domination of political power. The general population supported Antigone but they were too afraid to say anything until they finally felt that something must be done. Creon was running a totalitarian government and was corrupting the state. He was unable to see how unjust his law was until others brought it to his attention and tried to convince him that his use of power was wrong. Antigone’s defying actions instilled courage in the people to also speak against their ruler. It might be objected that when someone disobeys state laws whenever their conscience dictates they are only helping themselves, the person breaking the law is not thinking about the common good but rather fulfilling their own good or promoting anarchy. Civil disobedience may seem reasonable when we consider Martin Luther King Jr. ’s situation but it may not always be driven with good intentions. By disobeying, regardless of good or bad intentions, they are hurting the stability of the state. Creon argues, â€Å"Obedience is due to the state’ officer in small and great, just and unjust commandments†¦ (Sophocles, Antigone, 26). † Creon did not bother to judge his laws as just or unjust, he simply did what he considered was good for the state. It is thought that if people continue to please themselves in breaking the laws of the state that they will eventually break every law and lose all respect for the state. Civil disobedience may not always serve the public good and only serve to undermine order. Breaking a law weakens the state and it’s order, it promotes anarchy and disrespects authority. It should not be encouraged or tolerated. It is a civic virtue to abide by the laws of the state it is what leads to its success and stability. By breaking the law Antigone was faced with death, she claimed that she was honoring the gods and that they would honor her in the end. But one must question if honor is worth the permanence of death. Many people feel so strongly about their opinions that they are wiling to die just as Antigone did in Sophocles’ play. One notable person in history is Socrates; he willingly faced all punishments administered to him. He claimed to have had a contract with his state of Athens that obliged him to accept punishments for taking advantage of the state in the first place. This shows that even though Socrates may have broken some law, he still held respect for the state. Not every person that breaks a law is completely recalcitrant. Like Socrates, those who fight for civil rights and follow what they believe to be morally correct are aware of their wrongdoings and make it a statement when they finally submit to the law. They are submitting to punishments even if they are deemed unjust only to prove to the state that their morals are important and can withstand any punishment. In facing moral challenges one is often forced to face it is always difficult to decipher what is right and what is wrong. Everyone has different values and obligations. Here, Antigone’s values outweighed Creon’s overwhelmingly unjust laws. One must always question what is more important and find a balance between the two. Civil disobedience is allowed when the conscience dictates in situations that lead to a greater good. Not all private interests are egocentric some may also reflect the interest of the general population. Antigone, although harshly punished just as Martin Luther King, Jr. and Socrates were as well, have all rose among the common people and proved to be great. They encompassed a passion and bravery for their beliefs that was able to attract attention to conflicts in the law. Without their brave actions the state would not have been open to change and reach a new level of stability.

Foundation Degree Paramedic Science Essay

Assignment – Critique of research article, â€Å"life after cancer; Living with the risk† Word count 2500 (excluding refs) Submission date – 6th July 2012 The purpose of this essay aims to provide a critical evaluation of a research article titled life after cancer; living with risk (Wilkins and Woodgate, Cancer Nursing 2011 vol 34, no 6, P487-494) it will be structured according to the recommendations of the critique guidelines of Parahoo, 1988. Parahoo states that the title should not be long and complicated and should reflect as much as possible what the research is about (Parahoo and Reid 1988, P69). The title in this case meets this criteria, it is concise but clear and suggestive of the content and context. It does not presume to validate or invalidate the research; again this is a recommendation of Parahoo 1988. The title is 2 parts, Life after cancer; this could be interpreted as life of a carer or relative after a cancer patient has died or indeed life for a cancer patient after successful treatment. The second part of the title (living with risk) goes someway to qualify the first and elicit that the subject matter discusses living with risk after cancer treatment. It does not however explain in the title what â€Å"the risk† refers to. This perceived risk could be research into a possibility that cancer survivors take more risks in everyday life than non-cancer survivors as they have faced their the harsh reality of their own morbidity and overcome this. It is not until reading the full text that it becomes apparent that the risk refers to the risk of being diagnosed with a secondary form of cancer. The researchers of the study have a strong affiliation to the field and both possess recognised formal qualifications, unusually both in the fields of nursing and medicine making both very credible. No conflicts have been disclosed again adding credibility to the study and findings as unbiased. The abstract of the does provide an overview of the intentions of the study, the sample used, an overview of the results, conclusions and the implications for practice. The abstract lists key area’s under the bullet points of, â€Å"background, objective, method, results and conclusions.† Making the study easy to follow and read in a logical and accepted format. The abstract is suitably brief but enticing with a word count of 225 words, this word count is an average size for an abstract but goes slightly over the 150-200 words recommended the book entitled, â€Å"the art of abstracting†, (Cremmins, Edward, The Art of Abstracting 2nd Edition, Info Resources Press, April 1996) The objective attempts to explain the rationale for the study and is neatly and subsinctly summarised in one sentence. The method of the study is of an interprative, qualitative nature examining in some depth the feelings perceptions and views of cancer survivors though a descriptive approach using face to face semi structured interviews. The interviews took place in the subjects own homes, this would suggest that the subject was comfortable and at ease leading to an open, frank and honest interview providing valuable and unbiased data. An interview guide was used during the interview to assist participants to articulate their thoughts; the study does not go into any further detail to clarify what was contained within the interview guide and how this may affect any results obtained from questions throughout the interview process. The results data was analysed by the constant comparative method of data analysis. This method of data analysis lends itself to complex and sensitive situations allowing the researcher to gain the trust of the subjects. (Method of Qualitative Analysis, Barney G. Glaser, Social Problems, Vol.12, No. 4, 1965, pp. 436-445) The conclusion summarises the key findings and recommendations contained within the study and is to the point leading onto the implications for practise which are summarised in context with the study. There is an acknowledgement within the implications that the findings are a foundation which is subjective that further research would be beneficial to build on findings of the subject with the objective of improving detection, treatment and views on secondary cancer. The literature review discusses numerous previous studies on the subject matter and references 11 others containing both qualitative and quantitative research giving a broad background into the study. The vast majority of previous studies appear to be of a quantitative nature which adds validity to the alternative qualitative approach chosen for this study. All of this indicates that the authors have researched the topic and acknowledge previous work contributed by other researchers in the study area. This strongly suggests a high awareness of the topic and gives due credit to other researchers, it is mentioned in the data collection methods section of the study that the literature review influenced the interview guide developed to assist with data collection which further acknowledges previous research. It does not appear within the context of the study that the literature review has bias or undue influence on the findings but rather to support their validity as the method of the st udy and findings of this study are presented from a different perspective. However to maintain a balanced perspective we should consider the reasons that to date only one previous study has been a qualitative study with almost 10 times that amount of previous quantitative studies in the area, the rationale for this is approach is discussed and addressed with good effect in the last paragraph of the literature review. An argument for using qualitative a method for this study is that quantitative studies can be criticised for attempting to reduce a highly complex situation into a simple cause and effect paradox. Therefore the rationale for using qualitative methods does seem highly relevant and would support the data collection method chosen and the survey design. As interviewing allows the researcher to gain unique insight into other perspectives about the phenomenon being researched (Glesne and Peskin 1992) the argument put across is a rather compelling one to support further research using the method chosen to give a balanced view with evidence from both q ualitative and quantitative data research rather than from just one perspective. The hypnosis attempts to establish the perceived risks of a secondary diagnosis of cancer following successful treatment and attempts to obtain the views of the participants in relation to screening for the well-established increased medical risk, the hypothesis sets out to demonstrate that views are conflicting and wide ranging; throughout the text this hypothesis becomes well established. The overall approach of the study as previously discussed was an interpretive, descriptive qualitative design although the purpose states that this is part of a larger mixed method study aimed at establishing themes and patterns through the views and opinions of participants that had been specifically selected for inclusion due to their previous diagnosis, treatment and subsequent survival of various forms of cancer. The sample group was a relatively small number using only 22 participants (16 women and 6 men, it could be argued that this was a female dominated sample group that may have implications on the results) however using the qualitative format the sample group was of an acceptable size, the focus of the qualitative data is on the quality of the data collected as each participant is a source of a large volume of data. (Boswell and Cannon, Introduction to nursing research, qualitative research meathods, chapter 8, page 196.) The sample group was specifically selected to fit the inclusion criteria (Cancer survivors who were 5 or more years out from the initial cancer diagnosis, at least 19 years old at the time of the interview, resident to the area of the interviews and could speak and understand English) The nature of the selection and inclusion was purposive in nature, this is perfectly acceptable as the objective is to explore and describe the phenomena and not generalise the findings as qualitative research by its nature is not specifically designed to be representative of the general population. (Holloway and Wheeler, 2010, p 138) The research method chosen was specifically designed to be an emic perspective to describe the thoughts and feelings of post cancer patients, this method is ideal to understand and describe complex and sensitive information. Purposive sampling has been used as the participants have all been selected due to specific criteria. The primary goal in purposive sampling is not to generate a sample that is representative but rather one that is selected to represent certain subject characteristics that are relevant to the investigation. (Stommel and Wills, Clinical research, concepts and principles for advanced practice nurses, p302-303) A clear description of the sampling rationale and recruitment process is evident, (Bluff 1997). To maximise variation participants were selected that had differing ages at the time of the initial diagnosis and different types of cancer. This demonstrates an excellent cross section of variables to maximise results. Participants were recruited exclusively from a central cancer registry and hospital based database, the study goes on to state that this register is â€Å"largely untapped† meaning that the participants would not have preconceived ideas or previous experience of prior studies of this kind. Non eligible potential participants were excluded from the study prior to recruitment to ensure validity of the study. The age range was 19 – 87 years, however with the upper age range it could be concluded that the perceived risk of secondary cancer and subsequent screening views may vary vastly from younger participants due to the age difference. Fifteen of the participants were employed (full or part time) and the remaining participants were either retired or disabled, it could be argued that unemployed and disadvantaged people were not represented in the sample group who may have had differing views from the sample group interviewed. This assumption could also be continued that as all participants were white, ethnic groups were under represented and again may have differing views due to racial, cultural or social backgrounds. An argument that only white participents were deliberately selected for the study is a moot point as cancer is not a racially or culturally specific disease as perhaps a study into something like sickle cell crisis would be. The age range was wide and the average age is listed as 40 years old at the time of diagnosis however we know that some participants were far from the average age at the time of diagnosis but this maximises variation in the study. The data was collection method for the study was done using a semi structured interview technique; the same researcher (Krista Wilkins, PhD, RN) completed all of the 23 face to face interviews. By using the same researcher we can assume continuity of the interview with the same structure being followed throughout. It is noted that 1 participant was interviewed twice because the first interview had ended early, the study does not elaborate as the reasons why the first interview ended early. By being interviewed twice an argument could be put that the data collected should not be included as the participant may have had time to think about, discuss and research the upcoming questions in the repeat interview which could potentially affect the validity of the findings, this presumably was not considered to be an issue as the participant and data were not excluded from the study or conclusions drawn. As mentioned previously in the literature review key themes that had been discovered in the literature review were included to develop an interview guide. This suggests that all of the interviews were conducted not only by the same researcher but also following the same structure (or semi structure) with the interview guide being used as an â€Å"aide memoir† to keep the interviews on track and relevant. A person centred open ended approach was used as research shows that people respond well to this type of questioning ensuring that the information elicited was detailed, personal and rich in information.(Geer JG, Public opinion quarterly, volume 52, issue 3, p356-357) The interviews took place in the participants own homes which would establish both comfort and confidence in a familiar and â€Å"safe† environment encouraging an open, honest and useful interview and eliminating the desire for social acquiescence however we must remind mindful of participant reactivity to the researcher in this technique. The interviews lasted generally no longer than an hour, the timeframe given is credible and suggestive that the participant was allowed sufficient time to relax and â€Å"open up† within the interview ensuring rich data collection but without the effect of feeling rushed or exhausted discussing a potentially stressful, personal and emotive topic. However no upper or lower time limit was set so that if the data being collected at the point of an hour was valuable the participant was not cut short and valuable data excluded. Field notes were taken immediately after the interviews and included observations about the setting and impressions including non-verbal communications. This could be criticised as being a subjective observation and no reference is made to indicate the qualifications of the interviewer to make meaningful conclusion from observations of this type. All interviews were digitally recorded (with the participants consent) the recordings and field notes were later transcribed verbatim which supports the validity and credibility of the study immensely. There was no evidence of a pilot study to add further validity to this study. In this study all proper ethical principles have been adhered to, ethical permission was granted by gaining informed consent from all participants and from local university and hospital ethical review committees. The process lead to a delay between the study being carried out and publication with the study taking place between July 2008 and July 2009 and publication in issue 34 of the publication, Cancer nursing in Nov – Dec 2011. (Wilkins and Woodgate, Life after cancer – living with the risk, Cancer nursing, issue 34, p487 – 494, Dec 2011) but this length of time is not uncommon. The importance of gaining ethical approval is so that no harm comes to participants and the research community as a whole is not affected by the negatives of publicity which bring the research community into disrepute and go against the very objective of research to improve evidence based practice (Blaber, A. 2008, Foundations for Paramedic Practice, a Theoretical Perspective). The data analysis in this case forms the main body of the study and gives numerous personal experiences and thoughts to form the findings, all quotes have been annomalised to maintain the dignity and privacy of the participants. The data is broken down in a logical format helping the reader to understand the conclusions reached by the researchers and go a long way to help understand how the findings were reached. The limitations of the study are readily acknowledged and openly state that the findings are not generalised to all cancer survivors, it goes on to state that the data was only collected at one time point, this could be addressed by further studies and perhaps a longitudinal study would be beneficial to broaden the picture. The study failed to reveal any risk perceptions due to different variables for example age, type of cancer etc. To its credit the limitations does acknowledge that ethnic variability may have revealed additional information. The discussion is an in depth appraisal of the study as a whole including the findings, the conclusion is brief and does not introduce any new information, rather it summarises the previous sections of the study and draws the reader to an informed conclusion. Reference List Blaber, A. (2008) Foundations for Paramedic Practice, a Theoretical Perspective. Open University Press, pg 49. Boswell, C and Cannon, S. (2011) Introduction to nursing research, qualitative research methods, Jones and Bartlett publishers, chapter 8, pg 196. Cremmins, E. (1996) The Art of Abstracting 2nd Edition, Info Resources Press, pg. 46 Geer JG, (2005) Public opinion quarterly, volume 52, issue 3, Lawrence Erlbaum associates publishers, p356-357 Glaser, B. (1965) Method of Qualitative Analysis, Social Problems, Vol.12, No. 4, pp. 436-445 Holloway, I. and Wheeler, S. (2010) Qualitative Research in Nursing and Healthcare. 3rd ed. West Sussex, UK: Wiley-Blackwell, pg. 6, pg.138. Parahoo, K. (1988) Research Skills, Number 5. Critical Reading of Research. Nursing Times, 84 (43),pg 69-72 Stommel, M and Wills, C. (2004) Clinical research, concepts and principles for advanced practice nurses, Lippincott Williams and Williams, p302-303 Wilkins, K and Woodgate, R. (Dec 2011) Cancer nursing, Life after cancer – living with the risk, Lippincott Williams and Williams, issue 34, p487 – 494.