Safety, Health and Environmental Risk

For most people, the words safety, health and environment risk would automatically be synonymous with occupations involved in industrial and mechanical factories, chemical labs, or construction sites. Although these factors may be more common in such work settings, the truth is safety risks and hazards also exist in a regular office or work place. The risks however, manifests in the form of biomechanical-related stress and injuries. This includes lower back injury, carpal tunnel syndrome, and repetitive strain injury among many others. Such types of physical stress can result to fatigue and pain which may then cause the worker to perform poorly and even be unproductive. This paper will discuss various types of biomechanical and ergonomics-related injuries in the workplace. It will also tackle the causes as well as their negative effects on the workers. Consequently, this paper also aims to give recommendations on how to effectively and efficiently address this problem. A regular work desk at a typical office may seem like a hazard-free and safe work environment. However, several studies showed that prolonged and sustained work posture may result to various musculoskeletal disorders. Injuries include repetitive strain injury, carpal tunnel syndrome, and cumulative trauma disorder among many others. In fact, Bureau of Labor Statistics report that cases of ergonomic disorders are now rapidly growing in figures. According to researches, occupational illnesses as well as musculoskeletal disorders increased from 18 percent in 1985 to a staggering 56 percent in 1991 (University of Maryland 2008). Today, these numbers continue to rise as more and more workers experience physical strain in the workplace. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration there are over 647,000 cases of work-related injuries to date. Apart from this, occupational injuries account for more than $20 billion of the workers’ compensation costs (USA Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1996). There are several types of biomechanical or ergonomic disorders. One of which is the carpal tunnel syndrome. The carpal tunnel syndrome or median neuropathy is a type of physical strain generally associated with computer workers. It is one of the most common types of work related injuries primarily because of the widespread use of computers. Reports show that about 50 percent of computer workers experience this disorder’s symptoms frequently. This condition roots from the overuse and repetitive manual activities such as typing which causes the median nerves to be compressed in the wrists. Indivuals with this condition would usually feel numbness, muscle weakness, and sometimes even pain in the hands, arms, and fingers. Some patients even feel a pronounced pain or sensations at night. As this injury progresses, the person may feel cramping and weakness in the hand. It can also lead to a decrease in grip strength. Sharp pains will also be frequent as it will cause the patient to suffer (Medicine. net, 2009). Lower back injury is another common type of musculoskeletal disorder in the work place. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 20 percent of occupational injuries are back injuries. Further, about a quarter of the employment compensation claims are back injury (USA Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1996). This condition is often attributed to incorrect sitting postures. Office workers are especially vulnerable to this injury primarily because they retain their sitting posture for hours. Apart from the posture, office equipments also contribute to this condition. Poorly designed chairs or computer table can highly affect the posture of the user. Sitting in such chair for long hours can easily result to lower back pains. Cumulative trauma disorder of the upper extremity is another type of ergonomics- related disorder. Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, this condition is a result of repetitive manual work. This causes the body, such as the fingers, shoulders, and neck to feel pain. Recent researches show that cases of cumulative trauma disorder of the upper extremities have increased over the years. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health even categorizes this condition as†one of most significant occupational health problems today†. This is due to the fact that cumulative trauma disorder of the upper extremities account for about 56 percent of work-related injuries (Melhorn 1996, p. 1264). Cumulative trauma disorder of the upper extremities, carpal tunnel syndrome, and lower back injuries are all caused by excessive physical load. In the research work entitled â€Å"Biomechanical Aspects of Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorder†, Robert Radwin et al. (2002) explained that the terms â€Å"physical load† or â€Å"load† would refer to the physical stress acting on an individual’s body (Radwin et. al. , 2002, p. 153). Similarly, physical stress is the physical quality that makes up both the internal and external factors. This includes kinetic force, kinematics, oscillatory, and thermal. Kinetic force would refer to the voluntary motions exerted against an external object such as pounding or string an object. This type of pressure would then create a strain on the tendons and ligaments in the body. An increase pressure or force would result to a greater level of stress (Radwin et. al. , 2002, p. 156). Kinematics refers to the motions or movements that position the body. An uneven or unbalanced motion could cause angular displacement. This in turn, could create stress and load on the nerves as well as in the blood vessels. Consequently, oscillatory force creates pressure and load to the body. Oscillatory or external vibrations affects the not only the musculoskeletal system but also the body’s vascular and nervous system. Temperature of thermal measurement also plays an essential role to the performance and dexterity of an individual. Long exposure to cold environment for instance, can decrease the strength as well as the sensibility of the muscle. Most of these loads are affected by external factors such as the work place, office furniture, and energy sources among many others. Biomechanical factors like motions, exertions, body position, and forces also contribute to the physical load endured by the body. (Radwin et. al. , 2002, p. 154). Musculoskeletal disorders also come from various activities, repeated and accumulated over time. Thus, individuals such as employees or workers who are exposed to as much as eight hours daily, experience work related disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome and back injuries. This is largely because of the long and repetitive activities that are transferred through the different parts of the body which then creates an internal load ands stress on the tissues, nerves and ligaments. The combination of external and internal stress can add much stress on the ligaments and connective tissues of the body. Studies reveal that constant exposure to loads and stress can cause damage to the muscles and nerves. One way of reducing this external stress is through ergonomics. Ergonomics is the science that deals with engineering machines and equipments in order to reduce stress on the human body. At the same time, it is also intended to increase human productivity by eliminating discomfort and fatigue (Answers. com, 2009). Ergonomically designed office and workplace furniture such as work desks, tables, chairs, and computers can effectively reduce the load on the human body. According to studies, ergonomic furnishings in the workplace do not only reduce the level of stress among workers, but it also optimizes and increases productivity. Studies also reveal that there is a significant increase in efficiency levels as well as the quality of service in ergonomic-friendly companies. Employees also feel more motivated as they experience less stress and suffer fewer pains. A recent study conducted by Michael Smith and Antoinette Bayehi (2003) showed that an ergonomic controlled office increased the performance of call center workers by 50 percent. Over all, a total of 4. 87 percent of output increase was recorded among the control group (Smith and Bayehi, 2003, p. 16). Similar increase in productivity was also recorded in a research conducted in a silicon chip plant showed a 400 percent growth in productivity. This increase involves an increase in man hours as well as a decrease in work errors (Relating Productivity to Ergonomics, 2009, p. 3). Apart from productivity, studies and researches also reveal that companies who have decided to switch to ergonomically designed furnishings saved thousand of dollars in terms of compensation and insurance cost. A recent study showed that a steel company who redesigned their observation pit was able to save as much as $150,000 (Ergoweb, 2009). With such benefits, it is only fitting that companies should address their work-related problems through ergonomics. This means considering essential office equipments such as tables, chairs, and computers. An office chair for instance, plays an important part in any office environment. This is because almost all employees spend their working hours sitting in their work desks. As such, a chair’s height, width, depth, and back rest should carefully be considered. The chair’s height should be adjustable or it should measure from 16 to 20 inches. This will allow the user to comfortable place his feet flatly on the ground. When it comes to seat width, it is essential that the chair provides enough space so that the user will be able to seat comfortably. The standard width for most office chair is 17 to 20 inches. This leaves the user with enough space or room so that he or she can seat in ease (Ergonomics Safety Program, 2009). The back rest is also an important part of an ergonomic chair. Thus, the back rest should at least be 19 inches wide. Also, the chair should have a lumbar support that adapts to the curvature of the user’s back. An arm arrest should also be present as this will allow the user’s shoulder and arms to relax. Other factors such as the swivel function and the seat material must also be considered. The swivel function will allow the user to move around in his or her work desk with ease and comfort. Likewise, the chair’s material should be soft enough so that the worker will be able to seat and work comfortably. The office desk or table is an office furniture that requires to be ergonomically designed. Along with the chair, the work desk is used by most office employees for long number of hours. Therefore, it is important that the work desk allows the users to frequently stretch in order to prevent muscle cramps and pain. The table’s height should be at least 23 to 33 inches. An adjustable table is also recommended so that the user’s forearms are parallel to the floor. Similarly, the work space should provide enough leg space in order for the user to come close to the desk as possible (Ergonomics Safety Program, 2009). The work desk should also have enough room for the user to work properly. A writing surface of about 16 to 20 inches should be provided. Document holders and drawers are also necessary. Material-wise, it is important for the work desk to have a matte finish. This will eliminate the glare from the computer. Desks with rounded corners are also recommended in order to prevent the arms or wrist from coming in contact with square or sharp edges. The positioning of the computer in the work desk is equally significant. The computer monitor should be placed directly in front of the user. This means that the top of the screen must be parallel to the user’s eyes. Apart from this, the monitor should be positioned in such a way that there is very minimal reflection and glare (Ergonomics Safety Program, 2009). The computer keyboard on the other hand, should be placed in such a way that the user will be able to reach it without extending his upper arm. The forearms of should also be aligned floor so that the wrists will not bend while typing. This can be addressed by selecting a keyboard that can be adjusted and tilted. When typing, the arms should hang loose or it should rest comfortably in the desk to prevent the muscles in the shoulders from cramping (Daniels, 1996). Likewise, the computer mouse must be placed at the same area as the keyboard. This means that the click button of the mouse is aligned properly with the keyboards. Utilizing a mouse tray with trackballs can permit the user to use the mouse with ease and comfort. This will also allow the wrist to relax while staying in a neutral position (Daniel, 1996). Although ergonomically designed work equipments can reduce the risks of occupational injuries and disorders, it is still important to remember that this alone, cannot make up for bad practice. Employees and workers must also be aware of the proper measures in order to reduce stress and injury. One way of doing this is to educate the employees about the seriousness and risks of office-related injuries. This can be done through seminars and workshops about office and workplace safety. Memos and reminders about work place safety should also be frequently posted in the workplace. Distributing fliers and brochures about ergonomics-related injuries can also help spread awareness. At the same time, the management should also set an example to the employees by following all the safety measures. Informing the employees about the different consequences as well as the benefits of this issue will allow them to be aware about this looming workplace problem. More importantly, this will encourage the employees to take the proper measures to prevent work-related injuries from happening.

Institutional Framework – Jitto Paul James

GLOBAL BUSINESS STRATEGIES TOPICS :INSTUTIONAL FRAMEWORKS SUBMITTED BY : JITTO PAUL JAMES 11-PCO-18 Technical framework for global strategies Introduction : Strategies in a global setting involves competition in industries that extends across national boundaries and firms with different national bases that may tap into strategic resources in more than one location. The frameworks for global strategic analysis at four levels are the geographic scope of the industry , the competitiveness of various locations , the geographic reach of the firm and the global integration vs. ocal focus of specific activities . The sustainable growth of the country depends mainly on the quality of a country‘s institutions. Without well-functioning institutions, education and training policies are less effective and factor markets cannot function efficiently. Even the Financial systems, which are a central element in funding new investment, do not function effectively in a weak institutional environm ent . In short, strong institutions are a central determinant of the ability of economies to compete and to grow successfully.Level of analysis : issues , frameworks and actions The principal frames of reference required for strategic thinking and action in an international context , these include those required for defining the geographic scope of industries, the competitive advantage of countries and its implications for the locations of activities and tradeoffs between local responsiveness and global integration of different activities in the value chain . While each of these levels is complex, we find it useful to caricature. each of these frameworks graphically , much as Porter has done ith the five competitiveness . These caricature are drastic oversimplifications and omit many relevant variable and feedbacks , but they call to mind the various dimensions that should be considered . The goal is not to master the framework , but to use it to master the strategic issue at hand . This will require modifying the frameworks, often adding or changing dimensions , as the most relevant simplifications will vary from application to application . The basic frameworks and the definition of the various forces are presented below , together with the key references for each .All of the levels of analysis identified above plays a role in overall strategic process . Often , this process is depicted hierarchically , zooming in , from the most macro to the most micro perspectives from positioning to implementation . In practice , the process is more simultaneous and chaotic , since changes in opportunities or threats may appear at any of the levels , triggering a new round of strategic assessment . Nevertheless , it is useful to present the frameworks as a simple hierarchy from industry structure , location based advantage , and the various dimensions of internationalization of the firm .Institutional bodies for import / export Institutions engaged in export/ import effor t fall in six distinct tiers. At the top is the Department of Commerce in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and their main function is to formulate and guide India’s trade policy. In the Second tier, there are advisory bodies to ensure that export problems are comprehensively dealt with after mutual discussions between the Government and the Industry. At the third tier are the commodity specific organizations, which deal with problems relating to individual commodities and/or groups of commodities.The fourth tier consists of service institutions, which facilitates and assist the exporters to expand their operations and reach out more effectively to the world markets. The fifth tier consists 44 of Government trading organizations specifically set up to handle export/import of specified commodities and to supplement the efforts of the private enterprise in the field of export promotion and import management. Finally ,agencies for export promotion at the State level constitu te the sixth tier. Reference : International business competing in the global market place ( second edition ) by Charles W. L . Hill * Global business strategy : An introduction by Robin John , Grazia Letto Gilles . * Chamber of commerce * Ministry of trade and commerce * Investopedia for definition * EXIM Report http://www. slideshare. net/hemanthcrpatna/a-study-on-media-as-a-source-of-influence http://www. scribd. com/doc/95124603/A-Study-on-Media-as-a-Source-of-Influence-on-Consumer-Decision-Process-in-Bilaspur http://www. studymode. com/essays/Media-Impact-On-Consumer-Buying-Behavior-268694. html? topic

Advisable Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Advisable - Essay Example The jury is still out on the legality of hiring only professing Evangelical Christians. On the surface, it seems very logical to do so, but the legal implications make it a delicate body of water on which to tread. There are some who say it is thoroughly illegal, still others say it is legal only under certain circumstances (such as the organization not receiving government funds), and others say it is perfectly legal because of the nature of the organization and its methods, means, goals, and outreach. There is also the other side of the legal and ethical issue, which is that an atheist or non-Christian may be ill-advised to work in an environment that may offend them. Says World Vision â€Å"...Our hiring policy is vital to the integrity of our mission to serve the poor as followers of Jesus Christ.† The pertinent words are â€Å"as followers of Jesus Christ.† In the case of a manufacturing facility, which is a private for-profit non-government funded operation, the â€Å"christian-only† policy may be instituted, but it could be outlawed or struck down if legally challenged in court. Instituting that policy is legal, but not advisable. In Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act is a provision that exempts religious organizations from being held liable for charges of discrimination. Title VII, which remains open to interpretation by the courts, states: â€Å"(a) Inapplicability of subchapter to certain aliens and employees of religious entities: This subchapter shall not apply to an employer with respect to the employment of aliens outside any State, or to a religious corporation, association, educational institution, or society with respect to the employment of individuals of a particular religion to perform work connected with the carrying on by such corporation, association, educational institution, or society of its activities.à ¢â‚¬  †¦ 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of

English class Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

English class - Essay Example Hobbs was a man, who strived for the best all the time and tried to achieve greatness and the status of being a hero. Even though he did finally achieve popularity, he realized later that it was not because of the true perseverance that he had put into his work; but because of the disgraces that he had showered his life with. He later had the epiphany that he would then ‘suffer’ for all the wrongdoings that he had done. (Morgan Alex) Thus, after looking up the word, I understood that suffering is a very different kind of pain that humans have to endure during their lifetime; it might last and leave a scar on one’s life, and some people might even learn to move on and forget the past. Therefore, I do not only see the word as something associated with physical pain because after looking it up and reading the text again, it is clear that suffering is what usually mental trauma is. Works Cited Malamud, Bernard. The Natural. (1952) Definition for the term â€Å"Suffer /Suffering†. Merrim-Webster Dictionary. 3 February 2011. Web. Morgan, Alex.

Critical Thinking Questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Critical Thinking Questions - Essay Example These principles include dialectical critique, risk, reflexive critique, collaborative resources, theory and plural structure. An exemplary example is the action research process that has been initiated in the Caribbean Windward Islands. This was after the Caribbean government realized that the process involved several organizations and numerous business groups. Therefore, an action research approach was recommended as the best alternative in this situation. There are several categories of evaluation studies that can be employed in a program. These six categories of evaluation studies include objectives-oriented, management-oriented, consumer-oriented, expertise-oriented, adversary-oriented and naturalistic and participant-oriented evaluations (Fitzpatrick, Sanders, & Worthen, 2004). These evaluation approaches are quite critical in certain programs. An objective can be defined as the declaration of a result that is to be accomplished (Fitzpatrick, Sanders, & Worthen, 2004). Objectives can be broken down into several precise declarations that determine the activities or means that attribute to the success of a program. Research asserts that the objective-oriented evaluation approach is the best methodology that can be employed in a writing center. This approach has a positive significant impact on the writing of students. In fact, this approach mainly focuses on the outcomes of the program. This approach is also accepted globally, and it is also easy to use, hence; it enables objectives to be set. However, the approach majorly overlooks some unintended outcomes. Management-oriented evaluation is normally geared to serve the decision makers. In addition, the success of the program is mainly based on the teamwork between the decision makers and the evaluators. This clearly asserts that the decision maker is the individual on which the evaluation is directed. This approach is useful in program management. It has been employed in educational

Importance of the Marketing Concept to McDonalds Assignment

Importance of the Marketing Concept to McDonalds - Assignment Example Marketers can only offer service propositions, but their â€Å"value† depends on customers’ experiences and assessments. An organisation uses the marketing concept by interpreting customers’ needs through their values, beliefs, and practices, adopting this understanding to guide organisational vision, mission, and core values, and finally implementing it through intelligence gathering, sharing, and application, one of which is through the marketing mix. See Figure 1 for the Marketing Concept. Organisations use the marketing concept because they are aware that it has been empirically related to higher sales, profitability, product quality, success of new products/services, employee morale, and general performance (Ailawadi, et al., 2006; Shiu and Yu, 2010; van Triest, et al., 2009). Figure 1: The Marketing Concept Source: Nakata and Sivakumar (2001, p.256) MCDONALD’S: COMPANY OVERVIEW McDonald’s Corporation operates and franchises McDonald’s r estaurants in 119 countries. McDonald’s restaurants offer a standard menu, which includes, â€Å"McDonald’s menu includes hamburgers and cheeseburgers, Big Mac, Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Filet-O-Fish, several chicken sandwiches, Chicken McNuggets, Snack Wraps, French fries, salads, oatmeal, shakes, McFlurry desserts, sundaes, soft serve cones, pies, soft drinks, coffee, McCafe beverages and other beverages,† including local and limited-time products (Reuters.com, 2013). Furthermore, the company enjoys sustained growth with a global comparable sales growth of 3.1%. Sources showed that some of the target market’s needs and wants are: 1) the need to buy quick and tasty food for busy parents and businesspeople; 2) parents want to give treats to their... This discussion declares that the marketing concept has evolved significantly for the past sixty years. Most of the definitions of the marketing concept in the 1960s emphasise the relationship between organisations and customers, while current definitions in the twenty-first century seek to be more inclusive by embracing a stakeholder approach to defining and attaining â€Å"values†. As the paper stresses McDonald’s Corporation operates and franchises McDonald’s restaurants in 119 countries. McDonald’s restaurants offer a standard menu, which includes, â€Å"McDonald’s menu includes hamburgers and cheeseburgers, Big Mac, Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Filet-O-Fish, several chicken sandwiches, Chicken McNuggets, Snack Wraps, French fries, salads, oatmeal, shakes, McFlurry desserts, sundaes, soft serve cones, pies, soft drinks, coffee, McCafe beverages and other beverages,† including local and limited-time products. The company enjoys sustained growth with a global comparable sales growth of 3.1%. The marketing concept is relevant to McDonald’s because of its tools of competition analysis and 7Ps marketing mix. For competition, the next contender to having the biggest global market share is Yum! Brands, Inc. KFC is expanding its menu through adding wraps and local food, even vegetables for some Asian markets. Burger King and Wendy’s are updating their store designs and layout. Apart from competition analysis, McDonald’s can be examined further through its 7Ps marketing mix.

Annotated bibliograhphy Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Bibliograhphy - Annotated Bibliography Example Although most human resource managers find implementing work-life programs challenging and expensive, Lockwood suggests that any organization that intends to attract the right talents and gain competitive advantage must consider implementing a work-life program since it offers a win-win solution. This article satisfies the study objectives since it discusses the challenges facing human resource in the present day society as regards increased need for work-life program. The world has witnessed rapid technological advancements in the recent past. In this journal article, Kamal and Ashish Kumar investigate the impact that technological advancements witnessed in the recent past has had on human resource performance. The authors note that the recent technological advancements such as computers have transformed human resource functions in a big way. The authors note that the integration of technologies, such as computers has changed how the human resource managers process payrolls and record information among others. Additionally, the authors reckon that the integration of technologies in human resource management has improved how HR keeps records and information in an organization. Therefore, the authors advise that HR managers should ensure that they keep up with new technologies to enhance the performance of their HR functions. This paper satisfies the study objectives since it explores the impact of technology on HR

Charlotte Bronte, Jane Eyre - Read volume 1, chapter 7, from the Essay

Charlotte Bronte, Jane Eyre - Read volume 1, chapter 7, from the beginning to '..... they were then propped up with monitors' high stools.' How is Language used - Essay Example Yet, Jane is also portrayed as a woman who has strong inner feelings that refuse to be ignored and constantly cause her difficulty. As Jane grows through the book, this conflict between society’s rules and her inner feelings becomes more and more obvious, finally reaching a resolution at the end in which she has found both an accepting home and a social status that permits her some freedom while still retaining her own inner fire thanks to her ability to retain a degree of independence even from her husband. As can be interpreted from this brief summary of the book, one of the key themes revolves around the struggle between the social constraints of Victorian society and the personal need for self-expression and fulfillment in the individual. This concept is addressed repeatedly throughout the novel as Bronte continues to paint ‘pictured thoughts’ to illustrate the various elements that contribute to or that relieve the struggle. A close examination of a brief pas sage found at the beginning of Volume 1, Chapter 7 illustrates how these ‘pictured thoughts’ and vignettes serve to support the theme of internal and external struggle. The specific language Bronte chooses to place in Jane’s mouth regarding her first year at Lowood frames a bleak image of denial. She describes it as â€Å"an irksome struggle† (63) that exists not just on the physical plane, but, to an even greater degree on a spiritual plane: â€Å"The fear of failure in these points harassed me worse than the physical hardships of my lot† (63). The physical hardships are also given strong adjectival support as the girls remained trapped by â€Å"deep snows†, â€Å"impassable roads† and forced to work â€Å"within these limits† of a small, sparse and bitterly cold garden (63). The clothing they are provided is â€Å"insufficient† and nonexistent while such neglect caused â€Å"irritation†, torture† and â€Å"swelled, raw

To What Extent Did Ivan Vyshnegradsky and Sergei Witte Industrialize Essay

To What Extent Did Ivan Vyshnegradsky and Sergei Witte Industrialize 19thcentury Russia - Essay Example Others state that the minister intelligently participated in joint stock companies achieving his state of wealth. Born from parents of the priestly family, the minister graduated from college and thought mathematics and mechanics in a military institution. St Petersburg educational institution is where the minister lectured. Ivan rose to the position of state council in the year 1886. In the year 1887, he became finance minister of Russia. The minister pursued various policies and objectives. Some of his objective in the policies of the ministry increase government interfering with private railways. Some of these policies include the nationalization of the least performing railways. The other important activity of the minister was the preparation of monetary reforms (Alston 904). The other important policy sought by the ministry includes the settlement of the budget deficit. The ministry was also proactive in providing support to domestic industries in the country. When the name of Sergei Witte comes to discussion, various qualities of him take form. The man was a highly influential individual in policy making in Russian. Sergai was at the helm of the ministry during the first Russian revolution. As a minister during that period, the Russian minister saw the abolition of serfdom. The power of the minister was even higher with his relation with reign of Nicholas II. He devoted his life to the adherence of absolute Monarchy. The Minister had an approach to some moral qualities. On the other hand, the leader had a great wealth of wisdom. After his appointment to the ministry, Sergei became the most influential member of the government. His ministry had a positive inferential that is the reason he was successful. On the other hand, the minister implemented a number of reforms in the ministry of Finance. Some of his policies saw the transforming of the economy. The minister was able to transform the economy from a dropping level to a stable scale. The other

Business model Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Business model - Assignment Example The company is one that focuses to make games that are easy to learn and still maintain the fun element. The company has differentiated the way it looks at the gaming market from its competitors. The company is focussing on providing gaming that is fun and easy to children and adults alike. There has also been an effort to incorporate both male and female players into the gaming experience The main point of focus with Nintendo games is in the simplicity of their products. The product’s simplicity can be looked at in two ways. On the one hand you have the devices that have few buttons for their operation, a good example is the Wii console. Despite this they are able to give the customer an experience like no other when it comes to gaming. Secondly the games that they offer to their clients are simple in terms of game play. These are usually easy to play. The company has been able to differentiate itself from the industry norm of only appealing to a few devoted gamers. It has been able to do this through offerings of consoles such as the lately released Wii which has beaten rivals in the gaming console market (Torres, 2013) The company has tried to ensure that it markets and delivers its products in a way that saves both on cost as well as delivery times for the products that they offer. It has therefore taken the approach of using already established retailers to bring their products to market in the different regions of the world. Such retailers include partnerships with the likes of Amazon that guarantee as U.S. wide presence for the company. This leaves the online store that they maintain to service only replacement parts for their products. The one thing that the company has invested heavily in is ensuring that they utilize the feedback that they get from consumers. On the one hand the company has heavily invested in ensuring that this information is shared

Police Diversity Essay Example for Free

Police Diversity Essay Racial discrimination is an issue that so many professionals know about. Dealing with it may be the problem, but attempts to deal with it have been shown since the early times when it was noticed. According to Zeisel, there is evidence that the federal courts of appeal have been urged to take action on the administration of death sentences. Zeises notes that the death sentences in the federal courts, which he writes as a Florida experience, were administered discriminating against the black people (1981). In his writing, Zeisel states that two petitioners had provided evidence showing that the black offenders were being discriminated. The petitioners are, Maxwell V. Bishop who provided evidence to show that the black offenders were being discriminated against, and a petitioner in Spinkerllink v. Wainwright, who provided data showing that murderers of the white people were being discriminated against. This report by the petitioner from Spinkerllink indicated that there were high chances of murderers of the white to end up in death rows than murderers of the black people Zeisel, 1981). This though never received any action as the courts are noted to have refused to obtain evidence of racial discrimination. Zeisel notes that the data available in the criminal justice system of Florida, prove that there have been such kinds of discrimination (1981). This is a case that was identified in the 1980s, but does it exist today? Has the system changed? Racial discrimination has been a major problem in most federal courts with most minorities, especially the black people, facing cruel judgments than the white people. Some reports indicate that more blacks are found behind bars than whites considering their number in the total American population. The people are few in number, yet if the number of people in prison is compared to the white people in prison, they are almost half the whites total. This is the aim of this paper. Analysis of data about arrests made in Florida will be done to determine if the minorities are arrested more and if still, there is racial discrimination. Data to be analyzed was obtained from the Florida department of Law enforcement, which was recorded in the year 2004 by UCR. Analysis Do minority commit more crimes? According to the statistics on arrests by age and race in Florida, there are several offenses for which the white, Indians and the black people were arrested. Whites constituted a bigger group of people arrested with a total of 672,987, this is followed by the black people who were a total of 351,871. The total Indians arrested were 1,496 (Department of Law Enforcement, 2005). There are some offenses that no Indian was arrested at all, for example bribery and embezzlement. Comparing this to the other groups, a total of 38 whites were arrested for bribery and 20 black people for the same offense. In the case of embezzlement, 363 blacks were arrested while 749 whites were arrested(Department of Law Enforcement, 2005. The offense categorized as miscellaneous had the highest number of offenders with 299, 442 white offenders, 159,378 black offenders and 1,034 Indian offenders. Drug arrest and simple assault also had high numbers of offenders. White people arrested for simple assault were 60, 018, while the black offenders in this case were 29,650, and the Indian offenders arrested for this case were 89. Drug arrests had these numbers; whites 84,829, black people 65,167 and Indians 112 (Department of Law Enforcement, 2005. These are examples from the data obtained about arrests made in the year 2004 under various offenses. Generally, the minority, which in this case is the black people, committed more crime. This is because the number of black people in Florida compared to the total population is small. Research reports show that in the year 2000, the percentage of non white people was 17. 8. The total population of Florida then was 15,982,824 (Schenker, 2008). From this data, it means that the non white people were only 2,844,943. This includes even the Indians. The population in the year 2007 is noted to be 18,680,367 indicating a growth of 16. 9%. This means that on average, each year, there was an approximate growth increase of 449,591 making an approximate of 177, 811,88 total population of Florida as at 2004. The rate of increase of the the non white population per year is approximated as 0. 31% (8,819) based on the fact that the total percentage increase of the total population by 2010 is 19. 8% (Schenker, 2008). This means that the total non white population based on the yearly increase was approximately 2,880,219 in 2004. If this population is compared with the approximated total population in 2004, then the number of non white people is small compared to white. This is proof that more blacks commit more crimes according to the data from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. An example is in drug arrests. The number of white people arrested in this case is 84, 829. The total number of white people if approximated in the year 2004 was 14,900,969. From this the percentage of the white people arrested is 0. 569%. If this is compared to the number of black people arrested which is 65,167 on drug arrests, the percentage arrested to the nonwhite population is 2. 263%. This calculation is done using the total of non white people which includes Indians. If the number of Indians were excluded, then it means the total percentage would be higher. From this calculation, the number of black people arrested is higher by 1. 694%. How can this be judged? That these people commit more crimes? According to several sources, there have been so many cases of discrimination against black people living in America. This could just be a proof to it. It is though just an assumption since the number of people arrested cannot prove that the people are being discriminated against, though is a strong indication. Domnitiz and Knowles noted after research that black people were found to be guilty in police practices more than the white people. The economists note that â€Å"unbiased police practices as the police plans to do, can not prove that the guilt rates of motorists will be equalized among all races† This implies that however much the police try to show that they do not practice any racism in their policing, there is still knowledge by the public that there is racial discrimination in police practices. Domnitiz and Knowles indicated that motor vehicle search statistics show that the black motorists are singled out more that the white people (2006). The above case could therefore be considered as racial discrimination. Conclusion  From the above analysis, it is quite evident that there is racism. Just from the many sources that information is obtained, most of the cases are just indicating discrimination against the black people. In some sources though, black policemen were also found to be discriminative (Jaynes and Williams, 2007). This though is not indicated in the discussion but is an indication that even the black can discriminate against the other races. It may be therefore that, discrimination is due to the fact that the black are a minority. It is not easy to conclude this way though as there are other races in Florida too. What then can be the reason?

Risk Assessment and Risk Management

Risk Assessment and Risk Management Assessment 4 Risk Management In the world of business, risk is always associated regardless of how small or big your business is. It is essential to have an excellent management plan to protect the entities reputation and assets. To create a good management plan a risk management process, is a process that aides risk managers to set up priorities and assists in ensuring comprehensive management efforts, is being utilized. Risk management process is composed of six steps namely: Determine the objectives of the organisation Identifying exposure to loss Measure those same exposure Select alternatives Implement a solution Monitor and review the outcomes These steps are essential in drafting a good management plan to further understand these steps this paper will expound its application and its advantages to the enterprise. Determine the objectives of the organisation Each organization has its own and unique objectives. These objectives are the reason a company is being established and also guides them for future development. To be able to identify a risk in an enterprise a thorough understanding of the entities objective should be done by the risk managers. If risk managers completely understood the organisations objectives it will enable them to classify threats and opportunities the enterprise will face in the future and can create solutions or prevent risk associated with an organisations future actions. An example will be a company’s objective is to be globally competitive the risk managers will create a plan that will help the organisation achieve its objectives but prevent the risk associated with it like policies and laws of other country or the consumer needs for the product and service. Identifying exposure to loss Loss exposures include loss of financial assets, physical property, human loss and loss of good will. These are the risk that a risk manager might identify when assessing possible risk of the company. These losses can be prevented if proper risk identification is done before any untoward event occurs. Loss of financial assets is usually due to liability judgement, non-compliance and lawsuits. Loss of physical property can be because of bad investment, land ownership problems and natural disasters that may damage the property. Human loss is related to death, injury or resignation of employees that can affect the operations of the company. Reputation is very important for a company to function if consumers trust an organisations services and products this will increase their reputation but otherwise it can lead to loss of good will. Measure those same exposures An organisation not only needs to identify the risk or loss but as well as measure the impact of those risks to the organisation. These can be achieve by using different tools is assessing risk for example a client complain and satisfaction survey reports. This survey will help risk managers identify the areas where in they need modifications and improvement let as say in the survey patients complained that the nurses are rude therefore the managers should assess the employees in that department and try to do necessary adjustments to increase client satisfaction at the same time prevent human loss. Another one is incident reports these are usually a common tool used to identify risk it is a report made by employees that includes events that occur beyond the normal daily operations. Others are genetic occurrence screening, employee compensation claims data, contact leases and agreements and informal discussion with managers and staff these can be used to determine the risk and its eff ect on the organisations operation. Select alternatives As stated earlier risk is inevitable in handling these risk a risk manager uses risk treatment strategies categorized into two which is risk control and risk financing. Risk control is preventing losses and justifying the effects of losses. It is composed of three techniques which are exposure avoidance, loss prevention and segregation of loss exposure. Exposure avoidance is the reduction of loss to zero if focuses on the eradication of the possibility of loss to occur. It is used when a potential risk can be critical threat to the organization and there is no way to reduce or transfer those risks. Loss prevention gives emphasis on the possibility of an occurrence of an event and reduction of loss by educating staff and reviewing of policies and procedures. Loss reduction reducing the severity of loss an example is having fire drills, alarm system and immediate incident investigation to an event. Segregation of loss exposure this is distribution of assets like supplies to different d epartment to prevent loss for example in the first floor of the facility the flood damaged the supplies of medicines but on the second floor where other supplies are placed these can be used and distributed to the other department reducing the loss and continues the operations of the facility. Risk financing is paying losses that have happened it is composed of two techniques which are risk retention and risk transfer. Risk retention is taking responsibility of the potential losses which is related to the given risk and creating plans to cover the monetary consequences of that certain loss. Risk retention are usually used for loss that can’t be transferred like legal laws as well as small risk like paying for personal property damages like loss of a mobile phone, broken chair and others. Risk transfer is transferring of the financial responsibilities of the organisation to a third party like insurance companies. In selecting a solution to those losses the risk manager should determine which technique will be suited for the current risk. The risk manager should see to it that before choosing a solution he should determine which alternative has a lesser effect on the organisations normal operations and which one is cost effective for the organisation. Implement a solution Implementation of the solution is putting the plan into action. This will involve the use of the technique identified by the risk management professional which is the best to prevent further organisational loss. This technique will be assumed by other department managers within the organisation. For example if the risk manager professional identified that the best technique risk financing and risk transfer the risk manager may include selecting an insurer and creating a good insurance policy for the organisation. Monitor and review the outcomes The last step in risk management process this is to check the effectiveness of the risk management program. It is an approach done by risk managers, higher management, different department managers, and legal counsel and claim managers to evaluate the risk and its impact to various areas of the organisation. This will enable the organisation to see the flaws and further improve the risk management plan of the organisation. The evaluation is done by comparing the annual report made by the risk manager against the bench mark they have created as well as the previous annual reports in the past years. Risk assessment process is defines as an organized process for identifying and evaluating events that effects the accomplishment of objectives in a positive or negative way. These events can be related to political, legal, environmental, social and competition. It can also be an internal factor like human resource, organisational processes and infrastructure. Risk assessment like any process is made up off different steps which are: Identification of relevant business objectives Identifying events that could affect the achievement of objectives Determining risk tolerance Assessing the inherent likelihood and impact of risks Evaluating the portfolio of risk and determining risk responses Assessing residual likelihood and impacts of risks Identification of relevant business objectives Objectives are the goals that an organisation wants to achieve in order to prosper in the business world. Each organisation has its own set of objectives that may be the same or different from other organisations. Through these objectives a risk manager will be able to extract different risk that could threaten the organisation. Objectives can be constructed by using the SWOT analysis wherein it determines the strength, weakness, opportunities and threats. After the objective identification and finding out the possible risk a risk management plan can be started. Identifying events that could affect the achievement of objectives According to an organisation objective the risk managers should create an initial inventory of undertakings that may affect the accomplishment of the organisations objective. These events can be from within the organisation or from the external environment. The internal factors are organisations policies and processes, the human resource, technology and information that are taken from internal sources. Meanwhile, external factors are related to politics, economics, legal, sociological and environmental. After assessing these factors the risk manager can then categorise them as either a threat or an opportunity for the organisation. Written annual reports of internal and external factors will provide the risk manager of accurate numbers and percentage to pinpoint which threats needs immediate action. Determining risk tolerance The acceptable level of deviation comparative to the accomplishment of a specific objective of an organisation is called risk tolerance. It is a percentage or level in which a risk can be accepted by the organisation but have a certain range of limitation that could still enable an organisation to operate. Assess inherent likelihood and impact of risk In risk assessment it is part of the process to identify the events that has a potential impact on the accomplishment of the organisational objective. These events should be considered to be risk and has to be evaluated based on the chances of it to occur. It is essential that this event should be assessed on natural basis without bearing in mind the risk response that already exists. An inherent risk map should be assess by a risk manager, it is a portfolio view of risk that aides analysis and action, to determine the which risk has more effect and should be a prioritized for an immediate response. Evaluating the portfolio of risk and determining risk responses As we all know risk is inevitable it cannot be fully eliminated if an organisation wanted to have a return of investment they should take on some risk associated for their actions. Evaluating the risk portfolio will enable the risk manager and the organisation to see the impacts of the risk to the organisations objectives and goals. It will also evaluate the effectiveness of the risk response they have made and further improve if such risk arises in the future. Risk tolerance varies depending on the risk type as well as the responses to those risks so it is essential to assist the risk response and the action given and its effectiveness. Assessing residual likelihood and impacts of risks Assessing residual risk will help evaluate the effectiveness and appropriateness of the risk response if it is in within the acceptable level or within the risk tolerance of the organisation. It is assessing the internal checks and balances are still in place within the organisation. Therefore, we could see how essential risk management is to an organisations progress. Risk management is not just a simple work just to identify and provide a solution but it is a systematic and scientific way of identifying, implementing and evaluating the effects of risk to the organisation. The organisation will always face risk to be able to move and not stagnate on the current status they are in. It is a must that a risk management professional understand the organisations objective for him or her to extract and create an excellent risk management plan. It is also important to evaluate the effectiveness of the risk management plan and see to it that flaws are modified for better result in the future. Bibliography: Southern Cross University (09 October, 2014). http://scu.edu.au/risk_management/index.php/8/ Corporate compliance insight. (09 October, 2014). http://www.corporatecomplianceinsights.com/key-elements-of-the-risk-management-process/ Internal Auditor (10,October, 2014). https://iaonline.theiia.org/understanding-the-risk-management-process Health and Safety Executive (10 October, 2014). http://www.hse.gov.uk/risk/controlling-risks.htm Work and safety blogs (10 October, 2014). http://rospaworkplacesafety.com/2013/01/21/what-is-a-risk-assessment/ Southern Cross Healthcare. (10 October, 2014). https://www.southerncross.co.nz/Portals/0/Group/Insurance%20Prudential%20Supervision%20Bill%20220609.pdf

Should Euthanasia be Legalised?

Should Euthanasia be Legalised? Modern medicine has been beneficial in improving the quality of life, but sometimes it has been accompanied by harmful and dehumanising effects.   Many terminally ill people have been kept alive against their will by advanced medical technologies and have been denied assistance in dying.   Should now be the time for our society to recognise that terminally ill individuals have the right to choose the time, place, and manner of their own death?   Should euthanasia be legalised because our right as human beings allows us to make our own decisions?   If the right to life is to be a genuine right, rather than a duty to remain alive for as long as possible, shouldn’t people be free to choose their right to die if they consider it worthwhile to do so?   Shouldn’t these persons be allowed their human rights, dignity, and self-determination and ultimately the right to die? The European Convention on Human Rights, Article 2, recognises the right to life by implication, providing: Everyone’s right to life shall be protected by law.   No one shall be deprived of his life intentionally save in the execution of a sentence of a court following his conviction of a crime for which this penalty is provided by law. Deprivation of life shall not be regarded as inflicted in contravention of this Article when it results from the use of force which is no more than absolutely necessary: in defence of any person from unlawful violence; in order to effect a lawful arrest or to prevent the escape of a person lawfully detained; in action lawfully taken for the purpose of quelling a riot or insurrection. While the Convention requires national authorities to protect the right of ‘everyone’ to life, it does not define ‘everyone.’ Therefore, although fundamental, the right to life is generally not regarded as absolute.   Indeed, there are circumstances in which it is lawful to take another man’s life, for example by a lawful act of self-defence.   The present author not concerned with cases such as these but rather the controversial nature of the range of entities which have the right and the content of the right in different circumstances: those for which the European Convention makes no provision.   For example, opponents of euthanasia, may recognize the legitimacy of abortion; a process which involves taking some life.   Furthermore, the right of a person to commit suicide is recognised by some people, due to the belief that the right to self determination is the most essential human right. The debate on whether euthanasia and thus the right t o die in some forms might be morally acceptable practice is the subject of this essay.  Ã‚   For the purposes of this essay and the limitations in word count, there will be no dividing line between refusal of treatment, suicide, assisted suicide and euthanasia.   Rather, Lord Donaldson’s remarks about the right to choose how to live, rather than the right to die, will be taken as true. There is no ambiguity in the law of the United Kingdom towards a positive act of euthanasia; it is murder. The motive to ‘kill’ is certainly irrelevant; intention is the deciding factor.   There have been recommendations of a special offence for ‘mercy killing,’ and although there appears to be no intention to translate this into law, the courts seem reluctant to convict a ‘mercy killer’ to mandatory life imprisonment. The sympathetic view of the judges has still, until recently, consisted of predominately unsuccessful attacks on the legality of euthanasia.   However, lawful euthanasia has arrived in some jurisdictions and has added a new aspect to the debate. In the Netherlands, medically practised euthanasia became lawful in November 2000.   The doctor is required to believe that the patient’s request was ‘voluntary and well considered’ and that the patient’s suffering was ‘lasting and unbearable.’   It is also a requirement that the doctor has consulted an independent physician. The legislation also allows for advanced consent, which carries controversies in relation to the patient who does not wish to die but is killed by a doctor due to earlier written authorisation. However, the main argument against the legislation is that once a prohibition against killing is removed, it is far more difficult to control the practice. Indeed, there is evidence that euthanasia has been practised in many cases without the patient’s consent.   Another concern is that eventually, the grounds for the exercise of euthanasia will become more trivial so that the want itself will overpower the grounds.   One example is the physical healthy woman who becomes depressed. And what of the controversial provision on euthanasia for minors? This practice therefore warns of the dangers of an over sensitive right to die. Similar chances for legislation in the United Kingdom are remote: ‘The Government can see no basis for permitting suicide.   Such a change would be open to abuse and put the lives of the vulnerable and weak at risk.’   The uncertainty of the common law has, in the past, been used as a justification for a change in the law but, it is submitted that the decisions in Pretty and Mrs B clarify the boundaries between the right to live and the right to die.   Acts committed with an intention of bringing life to an end are legally impermissible, save where the patient performs them; treatment may be withdrawn from a competent adult, although the legal prohibition for assisted suicide remains.   For the reasons explained in relation to the Netherlands, it is submitted that the right to die is adequately provided for in existing convention and that there is no requirement for legislation. In conclusion, it is true that a profound respect for the sanctity of human life should be embedded in our law and moral philosophy; that is why murder has always been treated as the most grave and heinous of all crimes.   However, the arguments considered above explicate that the law has to take into account a myriad of interests which are problematic and surprisingly conditional. In matters of life and death, we are dealing with what Professor Laurence Tribe called the ‘clash of absolutes.’   Under these conditions, rules cannot dictate answers.   The best that can be hoped for is to provide answers which are not too inconsistent with too many of them.  

Shakespeares Othello - The Character of Iago :: GCSE English Literature Coursework

The Character of Iago  Ã‚   There is no doubt in  «Ã‚  Othello  Ã‚ » as to the role Shakespeare has given  Iago, he is the villain, masterful at deceit he generates most evil in the play. The clever soldier, his incredible acting allows him to be two or three completely different people. During most of the Act the audience finds itself constantly trying to find a motive for Iago’s actions but finds none that can justify what he is about to do. What does seem to come back again and again is his view on women which he sees as sex rapacious and a danger to his machiavellian plans. Scene 1 offers us a good preview as to what Iago is going to do for the rest of the Act and ultimately the rest of the play. Our first view of Iago is of a hard deceitful man who says  «Ã‚  Sblood  Ã‚ » as opposed to Roderigo’s  «Ã‚  Tush!  Ã‚  Ã‚ », we see already his powers of deception as he explains how he is even worse off than Roderigo, his furious language:  «Ã‚  A fellow almost damned in a fair wife  Ã‚ » manages to convince the intellectual Roderigo who is presented along with Cassio in contrast to Iago. They are polite, educated, fairly wealthy and can not imagine that something as evil and motiveless as Iago exits. Iago has not only lost his promotion but also his hero in Othello. We sense the irony in  «Ã‚  We cannot all be masters, nor all masters can be truly followed  Ã‚ » and see that what Iago says he will do to Othello he is doing Roderigo, he is manipulating him. He gets a bit carried away in his speech about how he hates the Moor to the exte nt that some parts are hard to understand:    «Ã‚  Were I the Moor, I would not be Iago  Ã‚ » which might mean that if he was the Moor he would not like to be followed by Iago (himself) so that we see that although he might be exaggerating to justify taking more of Roderigo’s money he really hates Othello. We see how he enjoys playing the part of the villain and already wonder why Roderigo can’t see that Iago has insufficient motives to do what he wants to do to Othello, we aren’t sure what he plans to do but can tell that it involves extreme sufferance and maybe death. He also acknowledges here that he is not what he seems to be:  «Ã‚  I am not what I am  Ã‚ » which strengthens the impression we have had of him so far.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder In Veterans :: Post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD

As with many other diseases, early detection and treatment of mental disorders are key components to rehabilitation and a cure. The prognosis for a better quality of life for veterans suffering with PTSD is increased through early intervention. The VA has developed the Seamless Transition program for the target group of soldiers that served in Iraq and Afghanistan (Currey, 2007). The focus of the program is to deliver the highest level of care in a timely manner, according to Dr. Roswell, M.D. (Currey, 2007). A holistic approach is taken by social workers to treat the whole person and not just the symptoms. Social work practice often requires advocating and navigating for clients within bureaucratic systems. New soldiers entering the war are at risk of being exposed to trauma, which increases the chance of being diagnosed with PTSD. Other target groups at heightened risk for PTSD are those required to serve multiple deployments and female service members. According to the NADCP (2007) 1 in 5 veterans report symptoms of a mental disorder. These figures can be utilized to predict and implement future treatment needs and funding requirements. Streamlining the application process, by allowing timely access to benefits, can result in reduced benefit necessities. A policy which improves access to benefits for veterans is supported by veteran’s organizations everywhere. A recent change in the policy removes the requirement for veterans to submit written documentation of a stressful event during military service. The most critical support for this change is that of U.S. politicians who make policy decisions. President Obama, in his speech on July 10, 2011, expressed his support for veterans, specifically those suffering with PTSD. He understands the plight of soldiers of war, whether in combat or non-combat, being affected by the war’s trauma. President Obama understood the necessity for new policy as the old policy prevented many of those with PTSD from receiving the care they needed. As stated by the President â€Å"I don’t think our troops on the battlefield should have to take notes to keep for claims applications† (The White House, 2010). The Texas Veteran Commission, realizing the growing number of vete rans with PTSD, is optimistic in its view that the new policies will allow this vulnerable group easier access to benefits (Cervantes, 2010). B. Christopher Frueh, a professor of psychology and director of the Division of Social Sciences at the University of Hawaii, is not a supporter of the rule change.

Rhetoric in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar Essays -- Rhetoric, Ju

Cassius, Brutus, and Antony use rhetoric successfully in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, albeit each differently and for different causes. Each of these men uses his skills in rhetoric to convince each other and at some points the entire population of Rome to follow his beliefs. However, each of these men has different motivations to do so, as well as different characteristics and general worldviews. Cassius uses rhetoric successfully to persuade Brutus to come over to his cause—killing Julius Caesar. Cassius is a sharp minded politician whose motivations are personal and not always in the interest of the state of Rome. He uses rhetoric as his means of convincing others to help him reach his cause and goal. Cassius uses many tactics to convince Brutus, one of which is underscoring his connection and close friendship with Brutus and trying to make Brutus guilty by implying that he is not maintaining his end of the friendship well enough: â€Å"[Brutus, y]ou bear too stubborn and too strange a hand / Over your friend that loves you† (I.ii.39-40). Cassius then moves on to flattery in his persuasion: I have heard Where many of the best respect in Rome (Except immortal Caesar), speaking of Brutus†¦ Have wished that noble Brutus had his eyes. (I.ii.65-70) Moving on from flattery, Cassius attempts to make Brutus feel flawed and in need of help: â€Å"And since you cannot see yourself / So well as by reflection, I, your glass / will modestly discover to yourself / That of yourself which you yet know not of† (I.ii.75-78). Here, Cassius paints himself as able to help Brutus with these flaws. Finally, Cassius exploits Brutus’ one mention of fear so that Brutus will choose to act on this fear: â€Å"[Brutus:] I do fear, the people choose Cae... ...en, and lovers† (III.ii.13-14) and appearing superior to and more wise than the plebeians who are his fellow citizens rather than his friends, Antony instead makes it clear that these people are above all his friends through his actions, such as standing at their physical level, and his words, such as the opening line of his speech. All three of these men attempt to persuade people, but they each do this uniquely. Although each Cassius, Brutus, and Antony use rhetoric in different ways in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, each of these men, who hold different characters and worldviews, use their skills in rhetoric to convince others to support them and their ideas at some time in the play. This is a powerful example of the fact that in Julius Caesar the power of rhetoric is stronger than the will of humans. Works Cited Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare

Does Globalisation of the media offer more or less opportunities for democracy? Essay

We live in society today where the media plays an alarmingly big part in how we see the world, and how our opinions are formed, whether it is from what we watch on television to who we vote for. The media has helped to make our society a democracy by placing emphasis on issues that at one stage in time would have been considered strictly private issues such as child birth, homosexuality, child care, domestic violence, and sexual harassment. Due to this democracy we now look differently at politics, and are more active in whom we want in office, and how we want our children to be raised. The globalisation of the media has increased our access to information about people and events around the world, but in the process it has also shifted issues on what should or should not be in the public domain.1 The media performs an essential part in our democracy socially, politically, economically and culturally. It is the main source of political information and allows us to access political debate. It allows us as an audience to be informed and to participate in how we should perceive things. Democracy needs the media to provide people with a wide range of opinions, analysis and debates on important issues. It needs the media to be able to reflect on the diversity of the audience, and it needs the media to be accountable for what is going on around them, and to be diverse and deliberate in how they communicate these issues to audiences. 2 The increased information given to audiences has a ‘democratising effect’, mobilising audiences into action, which in turn has significant implications for governments and businesses. International relations and events in our democracy are more visible and transparent, have more domestic policy ramifications and involve the public more often. While the globalised media plays a big part in our democracy, and has been characterised by the massive economic expansion and technical innovation it has also caused many problems for democracy. There is an increase in inequality, cultural and social tumult and individual alienation. The digital revolution and introduction of new technologies are redefining our notions of politics yes, but they are also redefining the structuring powers in society. Increasingly power resides in the hands of those that can produce, control and disseminate information the most effectively. This goes back to Marx’s theory that those who control the world govern it. While the proliferation of communications and increased global interdependence might create global understanding, equality and harmony it doesn’t necessarily mean that there is an increase in human communication and co-operation. If anything it is leading to the replacement of traditional structures, such as family religion, and the community with one that are supposedly more relevant.3 There are too few transnational media conglomerates dominating the world media, and fewer than 24 media conglomerates account for the majority of our newspapers, magazines, films, television and radio. With only a few big conglomerates running the show the media has become a vehicle used for commercial exploitation. There has been a steady increase of commercialisation of sports, arts, and education. This is disturbing when audiences are turning to the media to tell us how to vote, and how the government is being run. The media is constantly used by these conglomerates to spread existing structures and values, which are dominant globally and emphasise the free-market economy and the capitalist liberal democracy. The spread of the media has in fact broken down barriers to communications and international commerce, and makes it more difficult for governments and regulatory bodies to protect their cultures and societies from commercialisation and advertising.4 The main conglomerates have made the media very concentrated. Companies such as Times-Warner, Disney and Viacom have such diverse media holdings that they own both the means of production and distributing, further concentrating the media outlets and the information that we receive through the mass media. The media is vertical where production and distribution companies are allowed to own various types of networks, channels, and television stations. The media is supposed to be neutral yet how can they be so neutral when companies seem to ignore the important role that culture and social values play in shaping information. How can they be neutral when only a few conglomerate companies run them? The choices made everyday by government officials, media producers and distributors determine what topics are covered, what they want us to know and what they don’t want us to know, what information is selected and how it is portrayed. The simple choice of one story over another is not just economical and professional but also political.5 The choices that the media makes in presenting stories determines what becomes part of its audiences natural consciousness and what values and ideas take precedence to the general public. But these choices are not made by what they think the public wants but based on their own beliefs, and reflect cultural, social and national values and identity. The mass media is viewed as a means to increase diversity, democracy and the power of the individual. Yet more and more it seems that the media is a vehicle being used by the government and the producers to manipulate the community and advertise. It is assumed that the more television channels we have, the more diverse the information we receive. But this is a misconception, as Western Products, Hollywood values and advertising dominate nearly all of the media. More often now than not the information that is transmitted by the media is infotainment and advertising. The media is used so that audiences find it more difficult to have an impact on policies, goals and directions of their own social, economic and political institutions. As mentioned the media is owned by transnational corporations that command huge economies, run from the top and are interlinked in various ways. Their first interest is profit, and to construct an audience of a particular type. One that is addicted to a certain life-style with artificial wants. Their primary function is selling audiences to advertisers. They don’t make money from their subscriptions. They make money when an advertiser pays them. They believe in free market principles for others, but not for themselves. The major corporations in every society rely very heavily on state subsidy and state intervention.6 Making a profit from their advertising fees means that media outlets are influenced by various corporate interests. News coverage and other media content is therefore affected. Stories can end up being biased or omitted so that they don’t offend their advertisers or their owners. Corporate media is not a good thing for democracy when there is a risk of an increased economic and political influence that becomes unaccountable for. That is a great concern in democracy. Companies such as Newslimited and Times-Warner are so big that they have the power to stop other companies setting in on what they consider their turf. Times-Warner owns everything from Cable TV to sports teams and smaller companies that don’t have these options find that they can not compete in the media market. The problem with this is that with so few companies in complete power they are the ones making the decisions to what information is disseminated to the public, and this is done but what they think will make them a profit, and what will be beneficial to them. Companies such as News Corp wrote about the heroics of the War on terrorism, and the Iraq War because it was beneficial for them to support the U.S Government. The information filtered through to audiences was biased because it wasn’t telling people why there was a war, but that we should be supporting it. This was done because it would make them profit, and work in their favour. This was also shown in 1998 when Rupert Murdoch personally intervened to prevent one of the companies that he owned, HarperCollins, from publishing the memoirs of former Governor of Hong Kong, Chris Patton. He alleged that it was because he didn’t want the memoirs to offend the Government, but it was in fact because it might jeopardise plans by News Corp to have future expansion in China.7 Firms in the media industry compete with each other, but they also work together to reduce competition and in fact the nine largest American firms have joint ventures with nearly six of the other eight giants. Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp has at least one joint venture with every other of his competitors. This is not an appealing notion for we, as the audience has little say in what is produced. It also sadly it indicates that the main purpose to our media is only to make money for those huge companies in charge. If this is the case then how can Journalists be protected from the commercial interests of their owners? And how can information be filtered out evenly without bias when media owners wish to sell their space to the highest advertiser. Journalists claim to give readers the news that they think is important to their lives, but in fact tend to be assisting in the process of converting Journalism into the type of consumer news and information that advertisers want.8 Global conglomerates such as Times-Warner, News Corp, Sony, Viacom, Bertelsmann, and AT & T have an impact on our culture, especially when they are entering nations that have been tightly controlled by an already corrupt media system or nations that have significant censorship over media such as China. The Global companies don’t have respect for tradition or custom especially if it stands in the way of profits. Another problem with having such a globalised media in our democracy is that the media produces so much knowledge, information, dissemination of everything and that produces an absence of everything too, and in doing so produce a situation that causes too many images. The mode of production is then affected. The media has introduced us to a world with no fixed territory, a world increasingly without limits. This can cause us, as an audience to have a loss of sensibility, a loss of limits. This affects the mode of production. One does not produce what is absent, or what is invisible. It affects the production of culture, by mixing them with different cultures.9 If anything the consolidation of ownership across the various media remains a threat to democracy. The public’s right to information and ideas from the widest possible range of sources means little in a world dominated by a handful of interlocking media giants. The news programs that people see, and the advertisements that accompany them are dominated by the success of white, wealthy westerners and the examples of the dangers posed to them are poor, black, non-westerners. Women are also represented in the media by glamorous models, actresses and news presenters. The problem with a globalised media in a democracy is that it can ruin the public infrastructure and that in turn means the demise of the public sector, which results in privatisation and more commercialism. Media ownership and media concentration becomes a problem when audiences are not becoming well informed because the audience or public can not act as an authoritarian. The danger of living in such a world means that while there is an increase in the mode of communication, new forms of identity and community there is an equal loss in political sovereignty, economic opportunity and cultural diversity. 1 Healey, Justin Mass Media and Society, Spinney Press, 2000 2 McChesney Making Media democratic, Boston Review issue 23 3 Mowlana, Hamid Globalisation of the mass media, London-Sage Publications, 1997 4 Tunstall, Jeremy The new Hollywood Network Cartel and Europe, Carleton University Press 1998 5 Chomsky Noam Media and Globalisation Third World Network, 1996 6 OECD Globalisation: challenges and opportunities OECD Publishing 2000 7 Wiseman, John Global Nation, Cambridge University Press, 1998 8 Kortin, David, The mythical victory of Market Capitalism Goldsmith, Edward and Mender, San Francisco 1996 9 McChessney, Robert Global media, neoliberalism, and imperialism, Monthly review, volume 52 issue 10 2001

The Afterlife

My life ended just as hers was beginning. At the exact second my car hit a patch of black ice, spun, and collided with a tree, she was emerging from the sanctuary of her mother's womb. My soul was knocked from my body, just as hers breathed its first breath. I never thought death would be like this. From birth I had been raised as a Christian, believing in all that Christians do: Heaven, Hell, and all the rest. These were, to my way of thinking, the only destinations in the afterlife. Whether I was saved or condemned, I believed that death would signal the end of my earthly responsibilities. Now, I know better. At first, I didn't understand what had happened. I remembered the car spinning uncontrollably, the view out the window blurry until the tree loomed in the night. There had been a horrible crunching noise, like walking on packed snow, except much louder. My life did not flash before my eyes in what I now know were the last few seconds of my life. There was the spinning, the blur, the crunch — and then black. Not the kind of blackness that appears when you close your eyes — no, even then little speckles, little neon clouds appear. This darkness was consuming. It was absolute. For a second I felt absolute terror. I remember wondering if this was what it was like to be in a coma, or if the glass from my shattered windscreen had blinded me. In my finitely human mind, I didn't consider that I might be dead. Then I heard a voice. It seemed the voice came out of nowhere, or at least from some unidentifiable place in the blackness. It evoked in me the strangest sensation: in all my earthly life, I knew I'd never heard that voice before. Yet, a part of me responded to it in a way I didn't understand. The first thing the voice — the being — told me was that I had just died. That, to put it mildly, was a shock. A moment passed as the being gave me time to register this fact. Too stunned to even feel disbelief, I couldn't seem to reply. In truth, what could I have said? There is nothing on earth to prepare someone for that knowledge. The next thing the voice told me was that I owed a debt to God. It did not say this cruelly, or even judgementally; rather, it spoke objectively, with no trace of human emotion clouding its delivery. It was difficult — indeed, impossible — to discern anything about the being. I couldn't see it, couldn't touch it — I had no idea where it was. All I could do was listen as it explained what would become of me. Throughout my somewhat short life, the being said, I had offended and even hurt God on many occasions. I was not unique in this aspect; in fact, such was the case for most who had ever dwelt on the earth. A lucky, selfless few spent their lives pleasing God, and at death they were free. They owed nothing. I, however, did, and the debt for my sometimes sinful life had to be repaid. The only question was how. The second I had that thought, I felt an enormous shift come over my body — or soul, whatever I was made of. There was a brief falling sensation, like descending the first big dip of a roller coaster. The scene in front of me flicked from the void of blackness to an unfamiliar scene. I was watching events in suspended animation, in what seemed to be a hospital delivery room. My confusion mounted. ‘Why am I here?' I asked, directing my question to the being's presence somewhere beside me. I looked at the doctors in their green garb, their bodies inclined towards a woman on a bed, frozen in a picture of agony. The baby the doctors were lifting from her body had just been about to take its first breath. I tried to see what the scene had to do with me, but I could make no connection with any of the room's occupants. The last time I'd been in a place like this was during my own birth. ‘Do I know these people?' ‘No,' the being replied, tonelessly. ‘You've never met any of them. But. some will become very familiar to you.' ‘How can they?' I asked. ‘You've just told me – I'm dead.' Somehow, with the mental equivalent of a hand gesture, the being drew my attention towards the newborn, framed by the circle of doctors. It was then that I learned how my debt was to be repaid. ‘This,' it said, ‘is your charge.' ‘My . . . charge?' I didn't understand. ‘You know you have a debt to repay to God,' I was told. ‘This is how. This child has just been born, as you have just died. On birth, every child is appointed a guardian, one of those who owe God.' Something changed in the voice then, a shift so small I only just noticed. Its tone changed, softened; disembodied and ethereal as it was, it somehow became more human. I looked at the child – a girl – as I felt the being do the same. ‘You must look after this child every moment of her life. Before her birth, the child was tied to her mother: she found all the protection she needed in her womb. Now, that is your responsibility. You will not always be able to protect her, but you must never stop offering her your guidance, your comfort, all the days of her life. Your eternal presence alone is usually enough.' Looking back, I wonder if the option was there to refuse. That's not to say I wanted to, but perhaps some have. Regardless, the only feeling I distinctly remember was of great surprise. Never in my life had I thought this was what happened after death. The question that had plagued mankind had been answered for me – but there was no one to tell. The only thing left to do was accept. I looked at the child, frozen under the gaze of assorted doctors, the being, and me. I directed my thought towards the being. For some reason, I needed no deliberation. ‘Yes.' At that, the scene in front of me unfroze. The baby breathed, and with her breath came her first cries. Her mother simultaneously groaned and sighed in relief, a sigh echoed around her by the doctors. The baby's life had begun. In retrospect, I wonder why, at that moment, I didn't feel a surge of panic. What did I know about being a guardian? I'd never looked after a child while I was alive, yet here I was, ready to protect this tiny being for the rest of her natural life — however long that might be. Yet I found an odd acceptance of my new duty — perhaps because I didn't have anything else. My own life had ended. Coming out of my reverie, I realized the being was still beside me. I felt it watch with me as the little girl was wrapped in a blanket and given to her smiling mother. Strangely, there seemed to be a sense of sadness emanating from the being's presence, something barely tangible but at the same time undeniably present. It was odd given its earlier detachment. ‘Is it hard?' I asked as the mother cuddled her child for the first time. ‘Is it hard to be a guardian?' ‘Harder than anything you've ever done,' the being replied. ‘No matter how long she lives, it is always hard. But it must be done.' The being's voice changed again, swelling suddenly with emotion. ‘You will come to care very much for that child. No one will ever know her in the way that you will, because you will always be with her.' I was almost sure I felt the being sigh inwardly. ‘Always, until the end of her life. Then you will show her what to do. as I have shown you.' It was only then that I realized who the being was, why I had instinctively known its voice. Elated, I felt my mind reel with a thousand questions. But it was too late. As soon as the revelation had came, the being had gone. For a moment I felt a crushing sadness that I would never know him or her — someone who'd been there for me through every second of my life. But there wasn't time to dwell. Looking at the yawning baby a few feet away from me, I felt the first stirrings of affection. It had been a long time since I'd felt such a clear sense of purpose. Inwardly, I promised I would do for her what the being, the presence who'd just left, had done for me.

Principles of beneficence and non-maleficence Essay

_In order to have a common basis of understanding some words need to be defined:_ _BENEFICENCE:_ _The action of helping others and performing actions that would result in benefit to another person._ _NON-MALEFICENCE:_ _The avoidance of causing harm or evil by doing a certain action or by not doing any action at all._ _PHYSICIAN:_ _is a professional who practices medicine, which is concerned with promoting, maintaining or restoring human health through the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, injury and other physical and mental impairments_. _TORT_ : A civil wrong committed against a person or property, excluding breach of contract. BENEFICENCE AND NON-MALEFICENCE As the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence are closely related, they are discussed together in this section. Beneficence involves balancing the benefits of treatment against the risks and costs involved, whereas non-maleficence means avoiding the causation of harm. As many treatments involve some degree of harm, the principle of non-maleficence would imply that the harm should not be disproportionate to the benefit of the treatment. Respecting the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence may in certain circumstances mean failing to respect a person’s autonomy i.e. respecting their views about a particular treatment. For example, it may be necessary to provide treatment that is not desired in order to prevent the development of a future, more serious health problem. The treatment might be unpleasant, uncomfortable or even painful but this might involve less harm to the patient than would occur, were they not to have it. In cases where the patient lacks legal competence to make a decision, medical staffs are expected to act in the best interests of the patient. In doing  so, they may take into account the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence. However, it would be helpful for medical staff in such cases, if the patient lacking capacity had made an advance directive. Nevertheless, as will be seen in the following section on â€Å"the position of advance directives alongside current wishes†, problems may arise when there is a conflict between what a person requested in an advance directive and what in the physician’s view is in their best interests, particularly in cases where it is no longer clear that the person in question would still agree with the decision previously made. Examples of Beneficence: Resuscitating a drowning victim. Providing vaccinations for the general population. Encouraging a person to quit smoking, etc. Examples of Non-maleficence: Stopping a medication that is shown to be harmful. Refusing to provide a treatment that has not been shown to be effective. One of the most common ethical dilemmas arises in the balancing of beneficence and non-maleficence. This balance is the one between the benefits and risks of treatment and plays a role in nearly every medical decision such as whether to order a particular test, medication, procedure, operation or treatment. By providing informed consent, physicians give patients the information necessary to understand the scope and nature of the potential risks and benefits in order to make a decision. Ultimately it is the patient who assigns weight to the risks and benefits. Nonetheless, the potential benefits of any intervention must outweigh the risks in order for the action to be ethical. TORTS Also known as Negligence, the person guilty of committing a tort is called TORTFEASOR. The two types of torts are: _Intentional_: such as ASSAULT (threat or bodily harm to another), BATTERY (An action that causes bodily harm or injury), DEFAMATION OF CHARACTER (An action damaging a person’s reputation by making public statements), FALSE IMPRISONMENT (Intentional and unlawful restraint or confinement of one person by another), FRAUD (Intentional misrepresentation to take advantage of the resources of another person), INVASION OF PRIVACY (An intrusion into a person’s seclusion or private affairs). _Unintentional_: this one is when there is a non intended harm is caused but committed unreasonably or with a disregard for the consequences. There are four elements that make a person eligible for liability. Those elements are known as †THE FOUR D’S OF NEGLIGENCE†, which are: Duty, Derelict, Direct Cause and Damages. A complaint has to include all four elements or the court will not consider the claim. In conclusion, the presence of these two principles is important because, they provide a system of checks and balances for providers and patients in making decisions concerning medical care, and they are necessary to a patient’s autonomy or independence in making his/her own decision.

History of enlightenment Essay

(1) Newtonian theory vs. Einstein and Heisenberg The Newtonian theory refers to the work of one of the earliest scientists known as Isaac Newton who stated that, the laws of nature (gravity) controlled the stable movements of objects and also maintained the delicate balance that holds things firmly to the ground. However, since then this theory has been subjected to many conflicting philosophical views and opinions that have either challenged or supported it. The emergence of Albert Einstein and his genius in physics, for instance, gave way for heated debates about the credibility of the Newtonian theory of natural law and gravity. Albert Einstein in his proposed theory of relativism helped to extend Newtonian dynamics to include motion at speeds of approaching than that of light. This new additional clause on the initial theories of gravity saw the revolutionary perception of the effect of motion on gravity. The new findings led to the disputation of the absoluteness of Newtonian theory in that, Einstein discovered some faults that made the Newtonian theory incomplete and questionable. Einstein was able to learn that some elements such as time, mass, energy, space, and even matter are not necessarily absolute in themselves, they can therefore be measured or altered by a person depending on the nature of his/her study variables. [Nick Strobel, 2001] Warner Heisenberg later emerged to add his findings on what he called â€Å"quantum† mechanics that described motion on a subatomic scale. In his findings Heisenberg, asserted that the universe was full of uncertainties that made it not an obvious phenomenon to ever understand. â€Å"The more precisely the position is determined the, the less precisely the momentum is known at this instant, and vice versa† The work of these two scientists heralded the genesis of new studies that sought to provide insights on initially abstract theories, the Newtonian one included. [Mr. Edmondson, 2000] (2) Social Darwinism and Hitler The theories of social Darwinism, provided for a healthy competition among individuals, groups, nations, and the global world as a whole for purposes of achieving social evolution amongst human societies. Social Darwinism is a derivative from the Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection. Natural selection according to Darwin is the process of speciation in populace that is brought about by competition between individual mortals for limited resources a phenomenon called, â€Å"survival for the fittest†.   [Johnson, D. Paul, 2008] In his book, â€Å"Main Krampf† Hitler expresses acknowledgement of both the principals of social Darwinism and natural selection, this he exhibits by asserting that the world should be classified to people’s ancestry, a classification that will involve with some people being placed on higher classes than others, he quoted the example of Germany Aryans as more superior than the blacks, Jews, and gypsies as belonging to a lesser class. Again, Hitler is seen as acting beyond the dictates of social Darwinism or even the principal of natural selection with his racial attitude towards the Jews whom he accuse of abetting racial dilution tactics in order to bring about equality. His perception of social Darwinism and natural law was about the political, social, and economic struggle between the mainstream Aryans and the minority Jews. His racialism attitudes led him to the gassing and brutal murdering of millions of Jews as a way of satisfying his own â€Å"social Darwinistâ €  theory. [Mein Kampf, 1939] (3) Sigmund Freud vs. John Locke According to john Locke, â€Å"self† is the conscious thinking thing which is in itself reasonable or conscious of pleasure and pain and proficient of cheerfulness or melancholy, and so is concerned for itself, as far as that awareness extends. In other words to him self is a character awareness and self thoughtful awareness that is fixed in the body.   [Locke, Essay, 1997] In his work â€Å"some thoughts concerning Education† he indicates it is education that fills the rather â€Å"empty human mind†, by asserting that out of the ten men he meets with nine of them are what they are, morally upright or morally rotten, useful or not, good or evil, chiefly due to their education. [Locke, Some Thoughts, 1996] Further he argued that little and almost insensible impressions we make when we are young having lasting impacts to ourselves simply due to the fact that they were the foundations of the self. [Locke, Some Thoughts, 1996] On the other hand Sigmund Freud differed vehemently with Lockean theory in that he argued that human beings behavior is controlled largely by their unconscious minds. He argued that the understanding of conscious thoughts and behavior is determined by revisiting the unconscious mind. He developed â€Å"repression† as key factor that determined unconscious, out of belief that far many people repress painful memories into their unconscious minds. He further clarified that the very process of repression took place within an individual’s conscious mind but rather in the unconscious one, and therefore many people are unaware that is happening on them. [Barlow DW, Durand VM, 2005] Finally Freud stubborn stance on the unimportance of both education and treatment to the alleviation of violence or suffering can be attributed to his changing of the system of unconsciousness and modeling it into the concept of Ego, super-ego, and id.   Super ego is ability to psyche ones morals and not taking in to account circumstantial morals situations, while Id was derived from William James early works. It is in light of this that Freud vehemently disputed the notion that the success of the population relied on education.   [Barlow DW, Durand VM, 2005] Freud model of mind has been a great challenge to the enlightenment model of rational agency which then was a core element in modern philosophy.